Answer:
All elements in the same group of the periodic table have the same number of valence electrons. This made it possible to compare the valence of the alien elements to the valence of elements from our periodic table, and match the alien elements to the correct group. For example, our group 14 elements all have 4 valence electrons, so the alien element with 4 valence electrons had to be part of group 14 also.
An investigator can collect hairs they observe visually (with tweezers or by hand), and they can also use clear tape to lift non-visible hair from a variety of surfaces, such as clothing. Other methods of hair sample collection include combing and clipping methods.
The original results have not been replicated consistently and reliably.
The reaction will be: FeBr2 + K --> KBr + Fe
Balancing gives: FeBr2 + 2K --> 2KBr + Fe
The molar mass of FeBr2 is 55.85 + 2*79.9 = 215.65 g/mol.
We divide 40 g / 215.65 g/mol = 0.185 mol FeBr2
Based on stoichiometry:
(0.185 mol FeBr2)(2 mol KBr/1 mol FeBr2) = 0.370 mol KBr