microturbulence Small-scale motions (up to 5 km/s) in a stellar atmosphere that broaden the star’s spectral lines and may contribute to their effective width. In practice, astronomers may attribute any broadening of a spectral line, not accounted for by known causes, such as motions of the emitting atoms, to microturbulence, whether or not it is actually present. Compare with macroturbulence. Related category STELLAR ASTROPHYSICS Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site) |