What is the essential prerequisite for an emission nebula’s glow?

Answer

The presence of very hot, very young stars residing within or near the gas cloud.

The essential prerequisite for an emission nebula's glow is the presence of very hot, very young stars which emit prodigious amounts of high-energy ultraviolet (UV) radiation that powers the spectacle.

What is the essential prerequisite for an emission nebula’s glow?
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