The apparent westward movement of stars is a result of Earth's eastward rotation on its axis, known as Diurnal Motion. This phenomenon creates the illusion of stars moving westward as observers on Earth rotate. The discussion clarifies that this is not related to Newton's Third Law of Motion, but rather an effect of relative motion, similar to observing stationary objects while in a moving vehicle.
PREREQUISITESAstronomy enthusiasts, physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding celestial motion and the effects of Earth's rotation.
I think you're talking about Diurnal Motion. It's because of Earth's rotational motion on it's axis.nukeman said:Ok, the stars appear to move westword correct? Is that because the Earth is moving eastword, so its just an illusion that the stars move westword?
Is this Newtons 3rd law? (every action has an equal and opposite reaction)
Yes.nukeman said:Ok, the stars appear to move westword correct? Is that because the Earth is moving eastword, so its just an illusion that the stars move westword?
No, it's just a consequence of looking at something while moving. Similar to looking out the side window of a moving car (or train, plane, etc). If you are moving to your left objects appear to be moving to your right. In the case of a car it is obvious that you are moving and the objects are actually motionless. That is only because we are so familiar with cars and the fact that they move. We are not really used to thinking about the Earth as moving.Is this Newtons 3rd law? (every action has an equal and opposite reaction)