What element typically yields a blue-green light when seen in a meteor trail?

Answer

Magnesium

The observed color of a meteor is intrinsically linked to the specific elements that are being vaporized and excited, whether those elements originate from the meteoroid itself or the atmosphere. Magnesium is identified as an element whose excitation during the ablation process results in the emission of light that falls within the blue-green portion of the visible spectrum. This contrasts sharply with other common materials; for example, sodium and iron both contribute to yellow-orange emissions, while atmospheric nitrogen is responsible for the prominent red coloration. Therefore, the detection of a distinct blue-green hue is a spectral clue pointing directly towards the presence and excitation of magnesium within the material composing the incoming space debris.

What element typically yields a blue-green light when seen in a meteor trail?

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