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Miaplacidus and Avior are two stars in the constellation Carina - AQA - A-Level Physics - Question 3 - 2021 - Paper 4
Question 3
Miaplacidus and Avior are two stars in the constellation Carina. Miaplacidus is a class A star. Avior is a class K star. Figure 2 shows how the intensity of radiati... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Miaplacidus and Avior are two stars in the constellation Carina - AQA - A-Level Physics - Question 3 - 2021 - Paper 4
Step 1
Explain the overall shape of the graph
Answer
The graph depicts a spectrum of radiation intensity, showing a broad peak around a specific wavelength range, indicating that the star emits most of its radiation at these wavelengths. The continuous curve is typical of a black body spectrum, suggesting high temperatures for the emitting star. The dips in the graph are indicative of absorption lines, where specific wavelengths of light are absorbed by elements in the star's atmosphere.
Step 2
Describe the processes in the star that lead to the decreases in intensity
Answer
The decreases in intensity at certain wavelengths are due to absorption lines created primarily by hydrogen and other elements in the star's outer layers. These absorption lines occur when electrons in the atoms absorb photons of particular energies, causing a drop in intensity at those specific wavelengths. For example, the Balmer series of hydrogen lines typically manifests in A-type stars, indicating the presence of hydrogen at higher temperatures.
Step 3