From Myth To Science: The Astonishing Truth About Rainbows

Dec 30, 2024 NewsPoint

Rainbows Are Optical Phenomena

A rainbow is an optical illusion, created when light interacts with water droplets in the atmosphere. It's a combination of refraction, reflection, and dispersion of light, often from the sun. Image Source: NewsPoint

Seven Colours Aren’t Always Visible

Although we typically recognise seven colours in a rainbow, they are continuous, and you may not always see all seven. The number of colours visible depends on the observer’s angle, lighting, and atmospheric conditions. Image Source: NewsPoint

The Colours Don’t Have Specific Boundaries

The colours of a rainbow gradually blend into one another, without any distinct boundaries between them. The transition from one hue to another is fluid, not sharply defined. Image Source: NewsPoint

Double Rainbows Are Possible

Double rainbows occur when sunlight is reflected twice inside water droplets. The outer arc is typically dimmer and appears above the primary rainbow, with reversed colours. Image Source: NewsPoint

Rainbows Can Appear At Night

Moonbows, or lunar rainbows, form at night when moonlight is reflected off water droplets. These rainbows are much fainter than daylight rainbows but are still an incredible sight. Image Source: NewsPoint

Rainbows Are Circular

A rainbow forms a full circle, but we typically only see an arc. If viewed from a high vantage point, like an airplane, you may be able to spot a complete circle. Image Source: NewsPoint

The Angle Of Viewing Matters

The ideal angle for seeing a rainbow is around 42 degrees from the direction of sunlight. This specific angle makes rainbows appear at certain times of the day when the sun is in the right position. Image Source: NewsPoint

You Can’t Actually Reach The End Of A Rainbow

The 'end' of a rainbow is not a fixed point but depends on where you stand. As you move, the rainbow appears to shift, meaning it’s impossible to physically reach it. Image Source: NewsPoint

Rainbows Can Have More Than Seven Colours

Under certain conditions, rainbows can show additional colours beyond the usual seven. More colours appear when there are many water droplets or fine mist in the air. Image Source: NewsPoint

Rainbows Have Cultural Significance

Rainbows have deep cultural meanings in many societies. They are symbols of hope, peace and unity. In Greek mythology, they were paths to the gods, while Native American cultures associate them with balance and harmony. Image Source: NewsPoint

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