what does it mean to characterize a nebula as diffuse?

it reflects only non-visible radiation
it reflects only visible radiation
its edges do not have clear boundaries
its edges have clear boundaries

1 answer

When a nebula is characterized as diffuse, it means that it does not have clear boundaries. Unlike other types of nebulae with well-defined edges, a diffuse nebula has a more spread-out and blurry appearance. Its gases and dust are spread over a larger area, resulting in a hazy and indistinct boundary. This is in contrast to a nebula with clear boundaries, where the gases and dust are concentrated within a limited and well-defined region. The term "diffuse" in this context refers to the lack of distinct boundaries rather than a specific reflection of radiation, whether visible or non-visible.