The perceived motion of the photo voltaic disk from east to west throughout the course of a day is an optical phantasm. It stems from the Earth’s rotation on its axis. This rotation causes completely different places on the Earth’s floor to face the solar at completely different occasions, creating the impression of a shifting solar.
Understanding this phenomenon is key to comprehending fundamental astronomy and the idea of day and evening. Traditionally, observations of this obvious motion had been vital for timekeeping and navigation, resulting in the event of sundials and different astronomical devices. This understanding additionally informs our trendy perspective on the Earth’s place throughout the photo voltaic system.