Source Institutions
Source Institutions
Add to list Go to activity
Activity link broken? See if it's at the internet archive
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square250/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-002-573.jpg?itok=fqiqEZOt)
In this activity, learners construct their own spectroscope as they explore and observe spectra from familiar light sources. Learners can be challenged to make technological improvements to their spectroscopes and/or participate in extension activities that expand their understanding of different kinds of spectra and sharpen their observing skills.
- 30 to 45 minutes
- 45 to 60 minutes
- $5 - $10 per group of students
- Ages 14 - 18
- Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
- English
Quick Guide
Materials List (per group of students)
- Incandescent light bulb (60-100-watt frosted) and base
- String of clear holiday lights (optional)
- Fluorescent light (single bulb)
- Transmission grating sheet (available from science supply store)
- 2 transparency sheets
- Glo-Doodler (available from Colorforms) (optional)
- Manila folders (halves)
- Black paper
- Index cards (3x5-inch size)
- Tape or rubber bands
- Scissors
- Small paper clips
- Hole punchers
Subjects
-
Earth and Space Science
- Astronomy
-
Solar System
- The Sun
-
Physical Sciences
-
Light and Optics
- Electromagnetic Spectrum
- Sunlight and Color
-
Vibration and Waves
- Diffraction and Interference
-
Light and Optics
-
Engineering and Technology
-
Technology
- Information and Communication
-
Technology
-
The Nature of Science
-
The Scientific Process
- Conducting Investigations
-
The Scientific Process
Audience
To use this activity, learners need to:
- see
- see color
- touch
Learning styles supported:
- Involves hands-on or lab activities
Other
Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:
This resource is part of:
Access Rights:
- Free access
By:
- Education and Outreach Office, McDonald Observatory
Rights:
- All rights reserved, The University of Texas at Austin, 2008
Funding Source:
- NASA (Space Telescope Science Institute, operated by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy), HST-EO-10861.35-A