Chapter 1
The physics of bending light
Chapter 2
Rare and unusual rainbow types
Chapter 3
Rainbows in global mythology
Chapter 4
How we see color
YOUR GOAL
Master of The science of rainbows
Ch 2 · Rare and unusual rainbow types
streetspirit Rare and Unusual Rainbows
A ghost-white arch in the misty night (a secret rainbow!) / With hidden colors in the camera light (yeah, watch it glow!)
streetspirit Tiny water droplets in fog create pale, colorless bows instead of bright stripes.
BETA
streetspirit Drag the setting sun to learn how light scattering creates a red rainbow.
Fun Fact
Moonbow colors: Moonbows look white to our eyes because our night vision cells cannot perceive colors well, but cameras capture their full spectrum.
Glossary
moonbow (noun)
A rainbow formed by the light of the moon. Cumberland Falls in Kentucky is one of the few places regularly presenting these nocturnal arcs.
A rainbow formed by the light of the moon. Cumberland Falls in Kentucky is one of the few places regularly presenting these nocturnal arcs.
Quiz
How many internal reflections occur inside a raindrop to create a secondary double rainbow?
Quiz
What is the scientific name for the colorful sky bands commonly called fire rainbows?
Quiz
What type of clouds contain the hexagonal ice crystals needed to form fire rainbows?
Quiz
Why do fogbows appear almost completely white instead of showing distinct colors?
Quiz
Which African waterfall is famous for producing regular moonbows from its mist?