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BLUNT / ATMOSPHERIC REF
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BLUNT / ATMOSPHERIC REF
A diagram explaining atmospheric refraction using pictures of ships at sea to illustrate the concept Date: 1849
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Media ID 20146563
© Bubblepunk
1849 Atmospheric Blunt Concept Diagram Earth Explaining Illustrate Phenomena Pictures Planet Planets Refraction Space
EDITORS COMMENTS
Atmospheric Refraction: A Natural Phenomenon Illustrated by the Ships at Sea, 1849 Date: 1849 This intriguing diagram from 1849, obtained from Mary Evans Prints Online, provides a captivating explanation of atmospheric refraction, a natural phenomenon that has fascinated scientists and sailors for centuries. The image, composed of two pictures of ships at sea, is an elegant and effective way to illustrate this complex scientific concept. Atmospheric refraction refers to the bending of light as it passes through the Earth's atmosphere. This phenomenon is responsible for various optical effects, including the apparent elevation of the Sun and stars above their actual positions, as well as the mirage-like appearance of objects in the distance. The diagram demonstrates atmospheric refraction using the silhouettes of two ships against the horizon. The upper ship, which appears closer to the horizon, is actually farther away from the observer. This counterintuitive result is due to the bending of light as it passes through the denser layers of the atmosphere near the horizon, causing the ship to appear lower than its actual position. Conversely, the lower ship, which appears higher than the horizon, is actually closer to the observer. The diagram's use of ships at sea as a visual aid adds an interesting historical context, as sailors were among the first to observe and document atmospheric refraction. The ships' silhouettes against the backdrop of the sea and sky create a striking visual representation of this natural phenomenon, making it an engaging and educational piece for anyone interested in the wonders of the natural world and the history of scientific discovery.
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