atmospheric optics

Atmospheric optics is the study of how light interacts with the Earth's atmosphere, which creates various optical phenomena. This includes rainbows, halos around the sun or moon, and mirages. These effects happen because particles and water droplets in the air bend and scatter light. For example, a rainbow forms when sunlight passes through raindrops, splitting into different colors. Similarly, halos occur when ice crystals in the atmosphere refract light. Understanding atmospheric optics helps explain these beautifully complex visual experiences and enhances our appreciation of nature's wonders.