Analyzing the spectra of light emitted by a supernova remnant allows scientists to determine what about the original stellar ejecta?
Answer
elemental abundances
Spectroscopic analysis of the light emitted by the intensely heated gas within a supernova remnant provides direct insight into its chemical composition. By observing the specific wavelengths of light absorbed or emitted by the expanding shell, scientists can measure the relative amounts, or abundances, of various elements present in the ejected stellar material. For example, mapping the distribution of heavy elements like silicon or sulfur across the shell can provide clues about internal asymmetries within the explosion mechanism of the progenitor star.
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What Is A Supernova Remnant (SNR)? - Physics Frontier - YouTube
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