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Mad Meteor
Astronomy and Origins flashcards
17
Astronomy
8th Grade
05/14/2012

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Cards

Term
Main sequence star
Definition
Average-sized star in an average sized galaxy.
Term
Black Hole
Definition
collapsed star so massive that even light cannot escape. Gives off lots of x-rays.
Term
Electromagnetic waves
Definition
Energy given off by stars when they do fusion. Includes radio, infrared, visible, ultra-violet, x-rays, and gamma
Term
Critical mass
Definition
500,000 miles in diameter. If a star isn't this size, it can't do fusion.
Term
Hertzprung Russel Diagram
Definition
A graph of stars showing color, temperature, and brightness. Helps us understand the life cycle of a star.
Term
Fusion
Definition
Process that takes hydrogen atoms, and mashes them into other elements, and gives off electromagnetic waves in the process.
Term
astronomical unit
Definition
Distance between earth and sun
Term
Light year
Definition
Distance that light travels in a year
Term
Voyager project
Definition
A space probe that went to the four outer planets. Currently going to Sirius, and will get there in 300,000 years.
Term
Lunar Unit
Definition
Distance between earth and moon
Term
Telescope
Definition
Device for collecting electromagnetic waves from stars or other objects.
Term
Galaxy
Definition
group of stars with a spiral, irregular, or globular shape; often surrounding a black hole.
Term
Spectrascope
Definition
Device that allows us to examine the colors of light coming from a star, and determine the elements that are being made during fusion.
Term
Parallax
Definition
Technique that allows us to find the distance from earth to a star.  Relies on apparent shift in location due to a change in viewing perspective.
Term
Gravitational slingshot
Definition
Technique of using a planet's gravity to accelerate a space probe and get it to a destination in less time.
Term
Nebula
Definition
Collection of dust and gas that eventually forms stars and planets.
Term
comet
Definition
Ice and dust orbiting the sun.  Most originate from the outermost region of the solar system.
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