What specific characteristic of emission nebulae is caused by excited hydrogen atoms?
Answer
The vibrant red color
The signature vibrant red color frequently observed in emission nebulae, such as the well-known Orion Nebula, is directly attributable to the strong spectral emission lines generated specifically by excited hydrogen atoms. When hydrogen gas in these clouds is energized by intense radiation from nearby hot, young stars, it reaches an excited state and emits light at distinct wavelengths, with the red light being particularly prominent in the observable spectrum.
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