The pattern of stars that is visible from one position on Earth gradually shifts from east to west across the sky over one night. This shift is caused by
A) the motion of Earth around the Sun.
B) the rotation of Earth about its own north-south axis.
C) individual motions of the stars themselves with respect to the more distant galaxies.
D) precession of the spin axis of Earth.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The apparent shift of stars from east to west across the sky over one night is primarily due to the rotation of Earth about its own north-south axis. This rotation makes it seem as though the stars are moving, when in fact it is the observer on Earth who is moving.

The Pattern of Stars That Is Visible from One Position