An observer on Earth's equator would find
A) Polaris directly overhead.
B) Polaris 40° above the northern horizon.
C) Polaris on the northern horizon.
D) that the celestial equator passing directly overhead.
E) that the ecliptic coincides with the horizon.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

An observer on Earth's equator would find Polaris on the northern horizon. This is because Polaris is located at the celestial North Pole and an observer on the equator is located at the Earth's equator, which is perpendicular to the Earth's axis of rotation. Therefore, Polaris would never appear directly overhead or 40° above the northern horizon for an observer on the equator. The celestial equator would be passing through the observer's zenith, but this is not a relevant factor in determining the position of Polaris for the observer on the equator. The ecliptic would also not coincide with the horizon for an observer on the equator, as it would be inclined at an angle of about 23.5° with respect to the equator.

An Observer on Earth's Equator Would Find