Our World
How Does a Rainbow Form?
How does white sunlight become a rainbow of colors?
The short answer
Sunlight enters tiny water droplets. The light bends, reflects inside the droplet, and bends again as it leaves.
Let’s explore
- Sunlight enters tiny water droplets. The light bends, reflects inside the droplet, and bends again as it leaves.
- Different wavelengths bend by different amounts, separating the light into colors.
- Together, many droplets can create the beautiful arc we call a rainbow.
Quick Quiz
- What is the short answer to “How Does a Rainbow Form?”?
- Can you explain one key fact in your own words?
- What new question would you like to explore next?
Related Topics
Our World
Why Is the Sky Blue?
Sunlight looks white. So why does the sky look blue?
Sunlight contains many colors.
Our World
Why Does the Moon Seem to Follow Our Car?
Have you ever felt as though the Moon is following your car?
Nearby trees, houses and road signs appear to move quickly because they are close to us.
Our World
What Is Hiding Deep in the Ocean?
What changes as we travel from the ocean surface to the deepest trenches?
Sunlight Zone - the brightest ocean zone, with enough sunlight for photosynthesis.