The Mysteries and Science of Rainbow Formation

Rainbows are optical phenomena arising from light refraction, reflection, and dispersion in water droplets, resulting in a spectrum of light appearing in the sky.

Sunlight, often perceived as colorless, comprises a spectrum of colors. A rainbow vividly demonstrates this by dispersing sunlight into its constituent colors.

Rainbows are actually full circles. Observers on the ground see arcs because the earth's surface obstructs the bottom part. From high altitudes, a rainbow's true circular shape can be seen.

Multiple rainbow types exist beyond the primary arch. Secondary rainbows, double rainbows, and supernumerary rainbows showcase complex interactions of light within raindrops.

In a primary rainbow, red is always on top with violet at the bottom due to light bending at different angles for each color. This order reverses in secondary rainbows.

Rainbows hold various meanings globally, symbolizing peace, promise, or bridges in different cultures. They've inspired countless myths and are seen as connectors between realms or symbols of hope.

Twinned rainbows, rare and enigmatic, occur when two rainbows, stemming from a single base, split along one arc. They're caused by a variation of water droplet sizes.

Moonbows are rainbows created by moonlight, not sunlight. They're much fainter and rare, often appearing white to the human eye.