What we learn(ed) from rainbows
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: As well as describing the beautiful physics of a dramatic natural phenomenon, rainbow studies over centuries have illustrated unexpected connections with other areas of physics and the practice of science more generally. The connections include: • Numerical experiments when mathematics is too difficult • Illusions: no arc in the sky • A theory (light rays) being replaced by a deeper one (light waves) • Decoherence: suppressing wave interference • Ubiquity of rainbow interference decorating caustics • Colour science • Mathematics of divergent series • The totalitarian principle: refractionless rainbows and gravitational lensing Physics students would benefit from encountering all or some of these connections.
Source: European Journal of Physics
Author: Michael V Berry
Institution: University of Bristol
Language: English
Subfield: Statistical and Nonlinear Physics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,325
OpenAlex ID: W7224755237