Deriving Optics: 22/46 Halo, Sundogs, Coronas, etc.

In summary, the conversation is about asking for help in mathematically deriving various natural phenomena related to the sun, such as the 22 degree halo, 46 degree halo, sundogs, coronas, sunrise/sunset, silver linings, and sun pillar. The person also requests for graphics and helpful links to be provided.
  • #1
xreas0nsx
1
0
i have no idea where to start:

can someone help me mathematically derive the following?

-22 degree halo and 46 degree halo

-sundogs

-coronas

-sunrise/ sunset

-silver linings

-sun pillar

(graphics would be greatly appreciated)

if you find any helpful links please cite them here!

thanks!
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
xreas0nsx said:
i have no idea where to start:

can someone help me mathematically derive the following?

-22 degree halo and 46 degree halo

-sundogs

-coronas

-sunrise/ sunset

-silver linings

-sun pillar

(graphics would be greatly appreciated)

if you find any helpful links please cite them here!

thanks!
Check out this http://www.sundog.clara.co.uk/halo/parhelia.htm" which has great photos and a fairly good explanation.

AM
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #3


I would be happy to help you with deriving these optical phenomena mathematically. However, it is important to note that while we can understand and explain these phenomena using mathematical equations, their occurrence is ultimately dependent on various atmospheric conditions and the properties of light. With that in mind, let's take a look at each of these phenomena individually:

22 degree halo and 46 degree halo:

To derive the 22 degree halo and 46 degree halo, we need to understand the concept of refraction and the geometry of light passing through ice crystals in the atmosphere. The halo is formed when light from the sun or moon is refracted (bent) by hexagonal ice crystals in the atmosphere, producing a ring of light around the sun or moon. This refraction occurs at an angle of 22 degrees for the inner ring and 46 degrees for the outer ring.

To derive these angles, we can use Snell's Law, which states that the angle of refraction is related to the angle of incidence and the refractive index of the medium. In this case, the medium is the ice crystals in the atmosphere. We can also use the geometry of a hexagonal crystal to calculate the angles at which light is refracted. This website provides a detailed explanation and equations for deriving the angles of the halo: http://www.atoptics.co.uk/halo/22halfrm.htm

Sundogs:

Sundogs, also known as parhelia, are formed when light is refracted through hexagonal ice crystals in the atmosphere, similar to the formation of halos. However, in this case, the crystals are oriented horizontally, producing two bright spots on either side of the sun. To derive the angles at which sundogs occur, we can use similar equations and principles as for the halos. This website provides a detailed explanation and equations for deriving the angles of sundogs: http://www.atoptics.co.uk/halo/parhelia.htm

Coronas:

Coronas are formed when light is diffracted (scattered) by tiny water droplets in the atmosphere. The size of the water droplets and the wavelength of light determine the size and colors of the corona. To derive the size and colors of the corona, we can use the equations for diffraction and the properties of water droplets. This website provides a detailed explanation and equations for deriving the size and colors of coronas: http://www.atoptics
 

FAQ: Deriving Optics: 22/46 Halo, Sundogs, Coronas, etc.

What causes the 22/46 halo?

The 22/46 halo is caused by the refraction and reflection of sunlight through hexagonal ice crystals in the Earth's atmosphere. These crystals act as prisms, separating white light into its component colors and creating the circular halo around the sun.

What are sundogs?

Sundogs, also known as parhelia, are bright spots that appear on either side of the sun, often accompanied by a 22/46 halo. They are caused by the refraction of sunlight through ice crystals in the atmosphere, similar to the 22/46 halo.

How are coronas formed?

Coronas are formed when light is diffracted through small particles, such as water droplets or dust, in the atmosphere. The diffraction causes interference patterns, which result in the colorful rings often seen around the sun or moon.

Are these optical phenomena only visible during specific times of the day?

No, these optical phenomena can occur at any time of the day, but are most commonly seen when the sun is low on the horizon. This is because the angle of the sunlight passing through the ice crystals or particles is optimal for creating these optical effects.

Can these optical phenomena be seen in other parts of the world?

Yes, these optical phenomena can be seen in various parts of the world, but are most commonly observed in polar regions where ice crystals are more prevalent in the atmosphere. However, they can also occur in other regions during certain weather conditions, such as high humidity or during cold snaps.

Similar threads

  • Sticky
3
Replies
96
Views
44K
Replies
1
Views
2K
2
Replies
67
Views
12K
Replies
48
Views
22K
Replies
10
Views
3K
Replies
5
Views
2K
Replies
5
Views
3K
Replies
10
Views
5K
Replies
1
Views
3K
Back
Top