Optical phenomena pervade the atmosphere here in our jungle paradise. Solar halos are caused by light being refracted twice thru hexagonal ice crystals in the upper atmosphere. If you do the Geometry, this works out to the halos having an approximate radius of 22 degrees. Red light refracts at the smallest angle, so you will note that the inside of the halo is always red. Sunbeams are rays of light being reflected by moisture, dust particles, clouds, etc.. When they occur near twilight, they are called crepuscular rays. Interesting to note that these rays are actually parallel to each other! (think about looking down a long set of railroad tracks) There will be a test next Wednesday. Here are some of my favorite images of atmospheric phenomena from last week.
Thanks Doc. I always enjoy your photographs. Now about this test, will we need to know the index of refraction for ice crystal and the critical angle which I'm guessing is 11 degrees. If I need to know the difference in velocity between an African Sparrow and a European Sparrow, I will be absent LOL. Thanks again.
