18
The “surface” of the Sun
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•No discrete “surface” – just increase r, T, P, and “opacity”
–“Surface” or photosphere defined by depth from which visible photons can escape.
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•Opacity depends on wavelength, so apparent “surface” will be at different depths for different wavelengths
–High opacity in absorption lines because these photons easily absorbed/emitted
•Won’t see very far in at these wavelengths.
–Low opacity in between absorption lines
•Can see in deeper at these wavelengths.
–Eventually  r so high gas opaque at all wavelengths (just as in solid)
–“surface” high = cool = dark in lines;  deep = hot = bright between lines