What physical phenomenon causes the spectral colors seen in cloud iridescence?
Answer
Light diffraction bending around small particles
Cloud iridescence occurs through diffraction, a process where light waves bend as they pass around the edges of very small, uniformly sized water droplets or ice crystals within the cloud.
Related Questions
What physical phenomenon causes the spectral colors seen in cloud iridescence?How is the cause of cloud iridescence physically distinct from that of a traditional rainbow?What is the critical requirement regarding particle size for observing distinct, bright bands of color in cloud iridescence?Which of these cloud types is frequently cited as exhibiting cloud iridescence?In which atmospheric layer do Noctilucent Clouds (NLCs) exist, making them the highest clouds?What condition allows Noctilucent Clouds to be visible as electric blue long after sunset?What is the scientific designation given to Nacreous Clouds?Besides high altitude, what extremely specific condition is required for the formation of Nacreous Clouds?Why are Nacreous Clouds considered the most elusive colorful spectacle mentioned?How does the optimal viewing requirement for general iridescence differ from that for Noctilucent Clouds (NLCs)?What component contributes to the intense color of Nacreous Clouds, differentiating their composition from NLCs?