The greatest thing about being a nature expert in training is that you can ALWAYS learn more! Is there something you've always wanted to know about in nature but didn't know who to ask? Post your question here. Once a month, one of our experts will tackle a new question from those submitted by kids just like you.
Asked by Layli Naghdy. Answered by The Get to Know Team.
Good question Layli! Rainbows are actually light, which is made of a series of colours: red, orange, yellow, blue, green, indigo, and violet. Light travels in waves. The colour of light depends on the light's wavelength (the distance between each light wave). When light goes through an object, such as a crystal, it bends and becomes refracted light. Have you ever wondered why your legs underwater in the bathtub look all short and stubby? Well, kids, that's called refraction! The water is bending the light! Light bends according to its wavelength and makes a rainbow pattern. Each little drop of rain is like a crystal and bends light to make a rainbow!
Rainbows always appear in the same order with red on the outside. If raindrops reflect light twice, it will make a double rainbow! The colours of the second rainbow will be in the opposite order and are usually not as bright.
You can create your own rainbow, too! Find an ornamental prism and hold it against the sunlight. Look on the opposite wall and SHABANG! A rainbow! A faceted glass of water or vase will work too.
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