Days Needed: 1 Class period
Grade level: 9 – 12
Using X-ray line data, the students will identify elements contained in supernova remnants. Students will compare and contrast Supernova Remnant Spectral Data from different X-ray observatories.
In groups of 2 or more, the students will be given several X-ray spectra from the ASCA X-ray satellite and will be asked to determine what elements are present using a chart listing elements and the energies of their emission lines. Following a class discussion of their results, they will then be given Suzaku (Astro-E) spectra of the same sources and asked to determine which elements are present. (There will be much more accuracy with Suzaku (Astro-E).) Finally, they will be given spectra from Constellation-X and asked to determine what elements are present. (There will be even better resolution with Constellation-X). Compare and contrast their findings as a class.
Materials
Web page with all three spectra
Simulated ASCA Spectrum (doc, pdf)
Simulated Astro-E Spectrum (doc, pdf)
Simulated Constellation-X Spectrum (doc, pdf)
Hand out the Student Worksheet to the class.
Have the class do the activity and answer the questions on the worksheet. The teacher may collect and grade them.
Student Hera gives students the opportunity to analyze the same data sets that scientists use, using the same tools that scientists use. The Student Hera web pages walk students through examining a spectrum a supernova remnant to identify elements present in the hot gas.
Formative assessment and observation should be evident throughout the lesson. The worksheet, final questions during closure or a future quiz may serve as summative assessment.
Direct students to write for ten minutes in their journals summarizing the lab and all procedures in this lesson. Encourage students to then share their findings and what they might have written in their journals.