When viewing a nebula that glows red, what are you primarily observing compared to a blue nebula?
Answer
You are seeing the gas itself emitting light, not dust reflecting starlight
A red glow signifies emission nebulae, meaning the gas (hydrogen) is energized and releasing specific wavelengths of light directly. A blue nebula signifies reflection, where light is bouncing off dust.
#Videos
What Makes Reflection Nebulae Appear Blue? - Physics Frontier
Why Are Reflection Nebulae Blue? - Physics Frontier - YouTube
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