Stellar color

Definition

Stellar color is the visible hue that a star emits, which is directly related to its surface temperature. The color ranges from red for cooler stars to blue for hotter stars.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. A star’s color indicates its surface temperature; red stars are cooler while blue stars are hotter.
2. The spectral classification of stars includes O, B, A, F, G, K, and M types, with O being the hottest (blue) and M being the coolest (red).
3. Stellar color can be measured using photometry through different filters like U (ultraviolet), B (blue), and V (visual).
4. The Wien’s Law states that the peak wavelength of radiation emitted by a star is inversely proportional to its temperature.
5. Color-magnitude diagrams use stellar colors to determine the age and distance of star clusters.

Review Questions

• What does the color of a star indicate about its surface temperature?
• How does Wien’s Law relate to stellar color?
• What are the spectral classifications of stars in order from hottest to coolest?

Related terms

Spectral Classification: A system that categorizes stars based on their spectral characteristics and temperatures.

Photometry: A technique used to measure the brightness and color of celestial objects through various filters.

Wien's Law: A physical law stating that the peak wavelength of radiation emitted by a blackbody is inversely proportional to its temperature.