P.6 Stars and the Big Bang - Vocabulary

based on measurable observations and/or experiences (including experiments); as opposed to based on theory or pure logic

empirical

a small remaining quantity of something

remnant

prove (a statement or theory) to be wrong or false; disprove

refute

a band of colors produced by separation of the components of visible light according to wavelengths

visible light spectrum

dark area in a visible light spectrum that occurs when a specific wavelength of light is absorbed by a material as the light passes through it

absorption line

a pure substance consisting of only one type of atom which all have the same numbers of protons in their nuclei

element

the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom

atomic number

the weighted average number of protons plus neutrons in the nucleus of an atom

atomic mass

the movement of energy from one place to another

energy transfer

when energy changes from one kind to another kind

energy transformation

a process where two light atomic nuclei combine to form a single, heavier nucleus, releasing a massive amount of energy that powers stars and produces elements.

nuclear fusion

the formation of new atomic nuclei by nuclear reactions

nucleosynthesis  

holds protons and neutrons together in an atomic nucleus overcoming the repulsive force between positively charged protons.

strong nuclear force

the principle that mass can be transformed into energy and vice versa, as described by Einstein's equation E=mc²

mass-energy conversion

a graduated range of values forming a standard system for measuring something

scale