Question

Which statement correctly explains how the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram helps to compare stars?(1 point)
Responses

The Hertzsprung-Russell diagram plots stars according to their luminosity and temperature, which is also associated with spectral class.
The Hertzsprung-Russell diagram plots stars according to their luminosity and temperature, which is also associated with spectral class.

Stars with the highest temperatures appear towards the right side of the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram.
Stars with the highest temperatures appear towards the right side of the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram.

The Hertzsprung-Russell diagram plots stars according to their size and shape.
The Hertzsprung-Russell diagram plots stars according to their size and shape.

The Sun's high temperature places it to the far left of the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram.

Answer 1

The correct statement is:

**The Hertzsprung-Russell diagram plots stars according to their luminosity and temperature, which is also associated with spectral class.**

This accurately describes the purpose of the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram, as it illustrates the relationship between a star's luminosity (brightness) and its temperature (which is often indicated by color and spectral class).

To clarify the incorrect statements:
- Stars with the highest temperatures actually appear towards the **left** side of the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram, not the right.
- The diagram does not plot stars based on their size and shape.
- The Sun is classified as a G-type star and is located in the middle of the diagram, not the far left.