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Science

 

12 kinds of a rainbow

 

 

Since the 1600s, scientists have believed there are only one basic formation of rainbows. But recently, a new study has revealed there are 12 variations, distinguished by various characteristics. The research found rain droplets or tiny sprays of mist, along with the angle of the sun, can affect the way a rainbow looks. Because different wavelengths of light, which correspond to different colors, slow down by different speeds when they hit a raindrop, the different colors get bent at different angles, separating into the rainbow's distinctive hues.

In order to record all the myriad 'flavors' of rainbows, Ricard and his team first had to figure out the minimum set of characterizes that were found in all rainbows. The rainbows are differentiated by whether they have a strong Alexander's band and if all the colors are visible and whether there is are supernumerary bows.