Question

Is the position of a star as seen by us its true position? Justify your answer.

Answer 1

Refraction

1. Refraction causes light to deviate from its original course.
2. The refractive index of the inner layers of the earth's atmosphere differs from the refractive index of the outer atmosphere.

Position of stars

1. Because the refractive index of the earth's atmosphere differs from that of the outer atmosphere, light from a star enters the atmosphere of the earth and experiences refraction.
2. The difference in refractive index between the mediums becomes the primary cause of light refraction.
3. Because the earth's atmosphere is made up of several layers, light experiences multiple refractions, and its refractive index fluctuates over time.
4. That is why we see the star in a different seeming position than its true position.

Hence, No, the position of a star as seen by us is not the true position. Because we know there are several layers in the atmosphere, light from stars undergoes multiple refractions in a medium with a gradually changing refractive index, and we perceive the apparent position of the star.