answersLogoWhite

0

As we all know light is an electromagnetic wave, which is a wave composed of both a magnetic wave and an electric wave. It is also viewed as a particle called a photon. As a light beam approaches the sun it is attracted and repelled by the protons and electrons in the sun. The sum total effect of this, "Gravity" attracts and repels the sun at the same time. Coupled with the speed at which the photon is traveling the beam of light bends around the sun. As the light approaches, the photon is both repelled and attracted at the same time. Its velocity wants to carry it straight on, but as it gets closer to the sun the repulsion begins to effect the photons trajectory. Since the attractive force is greater this will lead to a shorter and sharper bend on the approaching side of the sun and a more gradual slope on the backside of the sun as the particle moves away from the sun. In reality, a constant stream of particles of photons are affected creating an unbroken beam of light that bends around the sun and reaches earth. This is how we are able to view light from a distant star that is hidden by the sun. The influence of matter in the sun on a beam of light as it approaches is what causes the electromagnetic wave to bend around the sun and reach earth.

User Avatar

Wiki User

15y ago

What else can I help you with?