Complete Rainbow

Last updated on September 16, 2023

Complete Rainbow: A Spectacular Natural Phenomenon

Rainbows are one of nature's most mesmerizing and awe-inspiring spectacles. We've all marveled at the sight of a colorful arc stretching across the sky after a rainfall. But did you know that there is more to a rainbow than meets the eye? In this article, we will delve deeper into the fascinating world of rainbows and explore the concept of a "complete rainbow."

A complete rainbow is a phenomenon that occurs when the observer can see the entire circular arc of a rainbow, rather than just a portion of it. While most rainbows appear as semi-circles, complete rainbows are a rare treat that reveals the full extent of this optical wonder. To witness a complete rainbow, certain conditions must align perfectly.

The Conditions for a Complete Rainbow

To begin with, the sun must be positioned high enough in the sky for the rainbow to form. This typically happens when the sun is at an angle of at least 42 degrees above the horizon. Additionally, a wide area needs to be saturated with water droplets, such as from a sprinkler or a hosepipe. These water droplets act as prisms, refracting and reflecting sunlight to create the stunning colors of the rainbow.

A calm day is crucial for capturing clear images of a complete rainbow. This helps to prevent interference from wind or rain, which can make it challenging to keep the camera dry. However, for those who don't mind getting wet, standing in the spray of water can enhance the experience. When the water droplets are close together, overlapping bows can occur, resulting in multiple rainbows visible to each eye.

Capturing the Complete Rainbow

Photographing a complete rainbow can be a rewarding challenge for photography enthusiasts. Richard Fleet, a skilled photographer and webmaster of Glows Bows & Haloes, managed to capture a stunning image of a complete rainbow by carefully taking multiple photos and combining them into a montage. By keeping the camera in the same position as much as possible, he was able to capture the entire arc of the rainbow.

Fleet's technique involved taking several images to ensure that the camera's field of view could encompass the entire rainbow. This approach allowed him to showcase the complete beauty and grandeur of this natural phenomenon. His resulting eight-image montage beautifully illustrates the full extent of the rainbow.

Exploring the Wonders of Atmospheric Optics

The study of atmospheric optics encompasses a wide range of fascinating phenomena, including rainbows, halos, and glows. Rainbows, in particular, have captivated humans for centuries, with their vibrant colors and ethereal appearance. Understanding the science behind rainbows adds a new layer of appreciation for their beauty.

Rainbows occur due to the interaction of sunlight with water droplets in the air. When sunlight enters a water droplet, it undergoes refraction, bending as it passes through the droplet. This bending separates the different colors of light, resulting in the familiar spectrum of colors seen in a rainbow. As the light exits the droplet, it undergoes another refraction, causing it to change direction once again. This bending and reflection within the droplet create the circular shape of a rainbow.

The Optical Illusion of a Complete Rainbow

While a complete rainbow appears as a full circle, it is actually an optical illusion. The ground typically obstructs the lower portion of the circle, making it impossible to see it in its entirety from a ground-level perspective. However, from an elevated position, such as an airplane or a mountaintop, it is possible to witness the complete circle of a rainbow.

In rare cases, when there are sufficient water droplets present and the observer is at a high elevation, a complete rainbow can be seen. This extraordinary sight is a testament to the intricate workings of light, water, and atmospheric conditions.

The Symbolic Meaning of Rainbows

Rainbows have long been associated with various symbolic meanings across different cultures and religions. In many belief systems, rainbows are seen as bridges between the earthly and spiritual realms, representing hope, renewal, and transformation. The vibrant colors of a rainbow have also been linked to positive emotions and a sense of wonder.

Whether viewed as a scientific phenomenon or a symbol of hope, there is no denying the enchantment that rainbows bring to our lives. The fleeting nature of these optical marvels serves as a reminder to appreciate the beauty and magic that surround us.

In conclusion, a complete rainbow is a rare and captivating sight that reveals the full circular arc of this natural phenomenon. To witness a complete rainbow, specific conditions must align, including a high sun position and a wide area saturated with water droplets. Photographing a complete rainbow requires careful positioning and multiple images to capture the full extent of its grandeur. Understanding the science behind rainbows adds to our appreciation of their beauty, while their symbolic meaning resonates across cultures. So, the next time you catch a glimpse of a rainbow, take a moment to marvel at the wonders of nature and the magic that lies within the complete rainbow.

Complete Rainbow

Richard Fleet, webmaster of Glows Bows & Haloes produced this hosepipe bow.

�Richard Fleet

The camera field of view was not enough to take in the entire rainbow and so he carefully took a number of images while keeping the camera in the same position as far as possible. This is his eight image montage.

He says "All you need is for the sun to be high enough and to spray water over a wide enough area. For taking pictures a completely calm day helps, otherwise it is quite hard to keep the camera dry. If you don't mind getting wet then getting into the spray helps. When the spray drops are very close you can get overlapping bows, one for each eye."

Note: this article has been automatically converted from the old site and may not appear as intended. You can find the original article here.

Reference Atmospheric Optics

If you use any of the definitions, information, or data presented on Atmospheric Optics, please copy the link or reference below to properly credit us as the reference source. Thank you!