The sun is seen even after the actual sunset because of ______

Options

A. reflection
B. refraction
C. scattering of light
D. rectilinear propagation of light

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Sunset**: The sun sets when it goes below the horizon. However, we can still see it for a short time after it has technically set.

2. **Role of the Atmosphere**: The Earth is surrounded by an atmosphere, which is a layer of gases. This atmosphere is denser than the vacuum of space.

3. **Light Behavior**: When the sun is just below the horizon, its light does not travel in a straight line due to the curvature of the Earth. Instead, the light rays from the sun can bend or refract as they pass through the atmosphere.

4. **Refraction of Light**: The bending of light rays in the atmosphere allows us to see the sun even when it is below the horizon. This phenomenon is known as refraction.

5. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the reason we can still see the sun after it has actually set is due to the refraction of light in the Earth's atmosphere.

**Final Answer**: The sun is seen even after the actual sunset because of **refraction**.

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