Question

How can we explain the reddish appearance of the sun at sunrise or sunset? Why does it not appear red at noon?

Answer 1

Step 1: Explanation for reddish appearance

1. Sunrise occurs when the light rays from the sun travel to our earth's atmosphere.
2. This distance between the sun and the earth is huge.
3. Due to this distance, the light with smaller wavelengths gets scattered out.
4. Therefore, only the larger wavelength rays make it to earth and hence our eyes.
5. The colour red consists of a larger wavelength.
6. Hence, the sun appears reddish during sunrise or sunset.

Step 2: Explanation of the colour of the sun at noon

1. During noon, the sun is directly over our heads.
2. Hence, light has to traverse a shorter distance, than in the morning or evening.
3. Therefore, all the colours of the sun are able to reach our eyes.
4. All these colours make up white light together.
5. Hence, the sun does not appear red at noon, and instead, it appears white.