Title
A Simple Demonstration of Absorption Spectra Using Tungsten Holiday Lights
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2009
Abstract
In a previous paper submitted to the Demonstrations section Birriel 2008, Astronomy Education Review, 7, 147, I discussed using commercially available incandescent light bulbs for the purpose of demonstrating absorption spectra in the classroom or laboratory. This demonstration solved a long-standing problem that many of astronomy instructors face trying to demonstrate how astronomical objects, such as stars, exhibit absorption spectra. In this paper, I briefly describe using a strand of tungsten holiday lights to demonstrate absorption spectra and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using a holiday light strand versus the previously discussed, full-sized incandescent light bulbs.
Recommended Citation
Astronomy Education Review, Vol. 8, No. 1 (December 2009).