Astronomy and Stars

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Ch 14: The Stars

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Focuses on the study of stars, their origin, and evolution.

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Astronomy

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A natural science that studies celestial objects and phenomena using math, physics, and chemistry.

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Objects of Interest in Astronomy

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Planets, moons, stars, nebulae, galaxies, and comets.

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What is a Star?

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Immense balls made mainly of hydrogen and helium, where fusion occurs.

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Elements and Stars

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Nearly all elements were formed during the life cycle of stars, except hydrogen, helium, and lithium.

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Tools of the Trade in Astronomy

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Primary source of info is electromagnetic radiation; includes optical and radio telescopes.

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Aspects of Electromagnetic Radiation

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Wavelength, intensity, direction/position.

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Refractor vs. Reflector Telescopes

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Refractor: More expensive, less compact, chromatic aberration, reduced light gathering. Reflector: Can't see space vampires.

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Chromosphere and corona

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The sun's chromosphere and corona are halos of incandescent plasma, usually blotted out by the sun's main disk. They emit streams of particles, mainly ions of helium and hydrogen, creating solar winds.

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Aurora borealis

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Aurora borealis occurs when charged particles from the sun enter Earth's magnetic field. Their interaction with atmospheric gases like oxygen and nitrogen causes intense, dancing colors.