Ask your own question, for FREE!
Physics 8 Online
OpenStudy (anonymous):

WHY can't you touch a rainbow?

OpenStudy (experimentx):

why can't we touch light??

OpenStudy (anonymous):

because it is a light..

OpenStudy (anonymous):

But you see a rainbow from a distance and when you approach it, it vanishes, this doesn't happen with normal light

OpenStudy (anonymous):

maybe thats because wavelength increases

OpenStudy (anonymous):

it is a light, that was made by refraction of the sun.

OpenStudy (anonymous):

but the speed of light is so fast that you can not tell the differance in just km

OpenStudy (anonymous):

the wavelength of light may increase , so it may be in another region beyond visible region. this is what i suppose could happen. Sorry if i am wrong

OpenStudy (anonymous):

ok, but is it important to know why a rainbow takes a semicircle shape

OpenStudy (anonymous):

Thanks

OpenStudy (anonymous):

welcome buddy..:D glad to help

OpenStudy (vincent-lyon.fr):

Each observer sees his/her own rainbow. As you move forward, the rainbow you see also moves forward and away from you. The rainbow is relative to the observer. It's like trying to catch your own shadow: it moves away as you walk.

OpenStudy (unklerhaukus):

o but i have touched so many rainbows

Can't find your answer? Make a FREE account and ask your own questions, OR help others and earn volunteer hours!

Join our real-time social learning platform and learn together with your friends!
Can't find your answer? Make a FREE account and ask your own questions, OR help others and earn volunteer hours!

Join our real-time social learning platform and learn together with your friends!