Final answer:Spectroscopy is the method by which the chemical makeup of a star's surface is determined, as it allows astronomers to study the unique spectral signatures of elements present in the star.Explanation:The chemical makeup of a star's surface is obtained by spectroscopy. This technique involves using spectrometers to analyze the spectrum of light from a star, which may show a continuous spectrum, an emission spectrum, or an absorption spectrum. Since every element has a unique spectral signature, astronomers can determine the composition of celestial objects by studying these spectra. Spectroscopy provides a wealth of information about a star, including its composition, temperature, and motion, and is an essential tool in helping us understand how stars evolve and what makes them shine. The fact that every element leaves its spectral signature in the pattern of lines observed allows researchers to know thechemical makeupnot just of individual stars, but even distant galaxies, whose light started traveling to us long before the Earth was formed....

Unlock to view answer

Unlock full access for 72 hours, watch your grades skyrocket.

For just $0.99 cents, get access to the powerful quizwhiz chrome extension that automatically solves your homework using AI. Subscription renews at $5.99/week.