Problem 2
Imagine that the composition of Earth's atmosphere were altered so that its ability to absorb visible and far infrared light were reversed. a. If you were outdoors when the Sun was at its highest point in the sky, how would the sky appear? b. Would there be an increase or a decrease in Earth's average surface temperature?
Problem 3
Suppose a well-known scientist claimed that stars consist primarily of helium rather than hydrogen. a. What type of object in the galaxy could you study to investigate whether stars consist primarily of helium or hydrogen? b. How could spectroscopy help you verify or disprove the scientist's claim? Explain your reasoning.
Problem 6
Consider the following discussion among three of your classmates regarding why telescopes are put in space. Support or refute each statement. Student 1: "I think it is because the atmosphere distorts and magnifies light, which causes objects to look larger than they actually are." Student 2 : "I thought it was because some of the wavelengths of light being sent out from the telescopes can be blocked by Earth's atmosphere, so the telescopes need to be above the atmosphere." Student 3: "Wait, I thought it was because by moving the telescope above the atmosphere, the telescope is closer to the objects, which makes them appear brighter."
