Atmospheric refraction: Difference between revisions
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[[refraction|Refraction]] by an [[atmosphere]] (usually Earth's) as a consequence of [[refractive index|refractive index]] gradients resulting from molecular number [[density]] gradients arising from [[pressure]], [[temperature]], and possibly [[water vapor]] gradients.<br/> Near surfaces on the earth (within a few meters or so), atmospheric refraction of visible and near-visible [[light]] usually is dominated by temperature gradients. Although atmospheric refraction used without qualification usually means refraction of [[electromagnetic waves]], it could mean refraction of [[acoustic waves]]. <br/>''See'' [[mirage]]. | |||
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Latest revision as of 05:19, 28 March 2024
Refraction by an atmosphere (usually Earth's) as a consequence of refractive index gradients resulting from molecular number density gradients arising from pressure, temperature, and possibly water vapor gradients.
Near surfaces on the earth (within a few meters or so), atmospheric refraction of visible and near-visible light usually is dominated by temperature gradients. Although atmospheric refraction used without qualification usually means refraction of electromagnetic waves, it could mean refraction of acoustic waves.
See mirage.
