Chemical Composition of Celestial Bodies
The chemical composition of celestial bodies, such as planets, moons, and asteroids, varies widely. Most bodies are made up of elements like hydrogen, helium, oxygen, carbon, and nitrogen. For example, the gas giant Jupiter primarily consists of hydrogen and helium, while terrestrial planets like Earth contain silicate minerals and metals.
Scientists analyze the chemical makeup of these bodies using techniques like spectroscopy, which measures light emitted or absorbed by materials. This helps identify elements and compounds present in celestial bodies, providing insights into their formation and evolution. Understanding their composition is crucial for studying the solar system and beyond.