Astronomers build telescopes on tops of mountains because
A) there is less air to dim the light.
B) the seeing is better.
C) CCDs work better when there is less oxygen in the air.
D) all of the above
E) a and b

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Telescopes are built on top of mountains to take advantage of thinner atmosphere and less air turbulence which leads to better seeing conditions. The reduced amount of air also reduces the amount of light being scattered or absorbed, leading to better image quality. CCDs do not necessarily work better in less oxygen, so option C is incorrect. Telescopes are built on tops of mountains because the decrease in atmospheric density at higher altitudes reduces the amount of atmospheric distortion and turbulence, thus improving the seeing. Additionally, there is less air to absorb and scatter light, making the images brighter and clearer. CCDs do not necessarily work better in lower oxygen levels, but the combination of better seeing and less atmospheric interference leads to higher quality observations overall.

Astronomers Build Telescopes on Tops of Mountains Because