scientific term for optical phenomenon occurring when light bends through air layers of varying temperatures

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The scientific term for the optical phenomenon that occurs when light bends through air layers of varying temperatures is "refraction." This specific phenomenon, particularly when related to temperature gradients in the atmosphere, is often associated with effects such as "superior mirage," which can create the appearance of objects above the horizon. Another related term is "atmospheric refraction," which describes the bending of light as it passes through different temperatures and densities of air.