College Physics (4th Edition)

Published by McGraw-Hill Education
ISBN 10: 0073512141
ISBN 13: 978-0-07351-214-3

Chapter 24 - Conceptual Questions - Page 934: 5

Answer

Astronomical observatories are often located on mountaintops because they provide a higher altitude and less light pollution than locations at lower elevations. At higher altitudes, the air is thinner and less turbulent, which leads to a clearer view of the night sky. Additionally, the mountaintops are often far away from populated areas, which means there is less light pollution that can interfere with observations. This allows for a much better view of faint astronomical objects.

Work Step by Step

Astronomical observatories are often located on mountaintops because they provide a higher altitude and less light pollution than locations at lower elevations. At higher altitudes, the air is thinner and less turbulent, which leads to a clearer view of the night sky. Additionally, the mountaintops are often far away from populated areas, which means there is less light pollution that can interfere with observations. This allows for a much better view of faint astronomical objects.
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