2006-12-24 10:25:10 · 3 answers · asked by Gerald D 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Other - Science
There were a series of articles in "Scientific American" magazine on the Green Flash back in the 1960s. People were not sure they were really seeing something real or just experiencing color fatigue in their eyes from looking at the sun set. It was determined by using photography that it was a real event although rare. Most people have never seen it. I've never seen it.
It is caused by the sun light bending through a very humid layer of air, which increases the index of refraction, and as the sun sets you see a rapid shift through the rainbow colors. It only last for a split second, which is why it is called a flash.
2006-12-24 17:39:12 · answer #1 · answered by Alan Turing 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
As the sun sets, the light is refracted in such a way that all colors of the spectrum get displayed. The "emerald flash" is rare an a real treat when it is seen. The best place to see it is in an airplane at 30,000 ft!!!
2006-12-24 10:48:21 · answer #2 · answered by BugGurl 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Such phenomenon is best seen and quite often at high altitudes near the Equator. Basically from the Andes. I have observed it many times.
Oddly enough, such green rays come from the opposite side of the sunset.
Good question. I am curious myself to know the causes.
2006-12-24 12:29:16 · answer #3 · answered by PragmaticAlien 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋