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Chapter 18: Problem 3

If an interstellar medium fills the space between the stars, how is that we are able to see the stars at all?

Short Answer

Expert verified
We can see stars even though the interstellar medium fills the space between them and us because the interstellar medium, while filled with gases, dust, and charged particles, is dispersed enough to let a significant amount of starlight pass through it and reach our eyes.

Step by step solution

01

Understand the nature of interstellar medium

The space between stars, known as the interstellar medium, is filled with gases, dust, and charged particles. However, these particles are spread thin, leading to a relatively low density of matter. Because of this, the medium is mostly transparent.
02

Understand how light travels

Light travels as waves and can pass through numerous mediums, including the interstellar medium. Light from stars can pass through this medium, although some may be absorbed by denser parts or reflected by particles, contributing to phenomena like nebulae.
03

Combining the knowledge

Combining our understanding of the interstellar medium and how light travels, we can conclude that while some starlight is absorbed or scattered by the interstellar medium, enough can pass through the relatively thin medium to allow us to see the stars.

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