Rainbow clouds, more accurately known as iridescent clouds, are a captivating display of color in the sky caused by cloud iridescence. These clouds appear to shimmer with rainbow-like hues, creating a stunning visual effect. They typically occur in specific cloud types, and a particular phenomenon is responsible for their vibrant colors.
Understanding Cloud Iridescence
The key to rainbow clouds lies in a process called diffraction.
- Diffraction: This phenomenon occurs when light waves bend and scatter as they pass around small obstacles. In the case of iridescent clouds, these obstacles are tiny water droplets or ice crystals within the cloud.
The size and uniformity of these water droplets or ice crystals are crucial for producing vivid colors.
Cloud Types Associated with Rainbow Clouds
Rainbow clouds are most commonly observed in the following cloud types:
- Altocumulus clouds: Mid-level, puffy clouds that often appear in sheets or layers.
- Cirrocumulus clouds: High-altitude, thin, and patchy clouds composed of ice crystals.
- Lenticular clouds: Lens-shaped clouds that form over mountains.
- Cirrus clouds: High-altitude, wispy clouds made of ice crystals.
| Cloud Type | Altitude | Composition | Appearance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Altocumulus | Mid-level | Water droplets/ice | Puffy, layered |
| Cirrocumulus | High-level | Ice crystals | Thin, patchy |
| Lenticular | Varies | Water droplets | Lens-shaped over mountains |
| Cirrus | High-level | Ice crystals | Wispy, feathery |
