Which optical effect allowed Alhazen (Ibn al-Haytham) to more accurately predict the angular height of the visible atmosphere?

💡 Explanation

When light from the sun enters Earth's atmosphere at a shallow angle, atmospheric refraction occurs because the variable air density bends the light rays downwards, making the visible atmosphere appear extended and thus higher. Therefore, refraction measurement enhances height estimation, rather than polarization, doppler shift, or interference which are secondary effects.

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