General Science • PhysicsEasy
What is the phenomenon responsible for the twinkling of stars in the night sky?
A. Atmospheric refraction of starlight✓ Correct Answer
B. Total internal reflection of light
C. Scattering of light by dust particles
D. Dispersion of light through water droplets
💡 Solution & Explanation
The twinkling of stars is caused by atmospheric refraction of starlight. As starlight travels through various layers of the Earth varying in refractive index and temperature, the light bends continuously, causing the apparent position and brightness of the star to fluctuate rapidly. Reflection and scattering mechanisms do not account for this dynamic fluctuation. A related concept is the advanced sunrise and delayed sunset caused by atmospheric bending.
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