This physics problem tests your understanding of fundamental physical laws and their applications. The step-by-step solution below breaks down the problem using relevant equations and physical reasoning.
ScanSolve AI Answer
29. The phenomenon of atmospheric refraction causes the sun to appear above the horizon even when it has physically set. This makes the sun visible for a short period after actual sunset. The angular shift due to refraction near the horizon is approximately 0.5^. Step 1: Determine the Earth's rotation rate. The Earth rotates 360^ in 24 hours. So, the rotation rate is (360^)/(24 hours) = 15^ per hour. Step 2: Convert the rotation rate to minutes per degree. 15^ per hour = (15^)/(60 minutes) = (1^)/(4 minutes). This means the Earth rotates 1^ in 4 minutes. Step 3: Calculate the time difference for a 0.5^ shift. The apparent shift in the sun's position due to atmospheric refraction at the horizon is approximately 0.5^. Time difference = 0.5^ × 4 minutes1^ = 2 minutes. Therefore, the time difference between actual sunset and apparent sunset is about 2 minutes. The correct option is (B). The time difference between actual sunset and apparent sunset is about 2 minutes. 3 done, 2 left today. You're making progress.