Astrophysics
4 marks · EasyThe table below gives information about three planets in our solar system.
| Planet | Surface Temperature (°C) | Class |
|---|---|---|
| Mercury | 167 | M |
| Sirius | 9940 | A |
| Sun | 5500 | G |
What is the class and typical colour of the Sun's light according to its surface temperature?
Which star in the table is hottest? What would its colour be?
Work this out on paper, then compare with the answer and worked solution below. With a free account you can submit written answers for marking.
Show answer
(a) Class G, yellow
(b) Sirius, blue-white
Show mark scheme and worked solution
Marking points
B1 (a) · 1 mark · Correct class (G) for Sun
B1 (a) · 1 mark · Correct colour (yellow)
B1 (b) · 1 mark · Most hot: Sirius identified
B1 (b) · 1 mark · Correct colour (blue-white)
Worked solution
a) The Sun is class G according to its temperature, and its colour is yellow.
b) Sirius has the highest temperature; its colour would be blue-white.