OPOD - Strange rainbow 3

Last updated on September 16, 2023

OPOD - Strange Rainbow 3: A Closer Look at an Unusual Phenomenon

Rainbows have always fascinated us with their vibrant colors and ethereal beauty. They are a natural wonder that occurs when sunlight interacts with water droplets in the atmosphere, creating a mesmerizing display of spectral colors. While rainbows are commonly seen as semi-circular arcs, occasionally, nature surprises us with more peculiar variations. One such intriguing phenomenon is the split or twinned rainbow. Today, we will delve into the captivating world of these rare rainbows and explore a particularly unusual example captured by Rod Herdman in Whitacre, Warwickshire, England.

A Rare and Prolonged Sight

Split rainbows, also known as twinned rainbows, are a rare occurrence that is typically short-lived. However, the rainbow photographed by Rod Herdman defied expectations, lasting for an impressive duration of at least four minutes. This prolonged appearance provided ample opportunity for observers to marvel at its unique features and study its formation in greater detail.

Unusual Characteristics

Upon closer examination of the image, several intriguing features become apparent. Normally, the "extra" bow of a twin rainbow is believed to be the lower one, formed by slightly flattened raindrops. In this case, however, the lower bow appears regular and showcases 2-3 supernumerary bows within it. These additional bows are a telltale sign of small, spherical raindrops.

Contrastingly, it is the upper bow that deviates from expectations. It exhibits a lumpy appearance with varying separation from the lower bow and appears slightly broader. This irregularity poses an intriguing question: could twinning occur with the "extraordinary bow" positioned above the regular one? This would help explain the occasional presence of supernumeraries inside the lower twin. However, it raises further complexities regarding the formation of the upper bow.

Deformed Drops or Ice Spheres?

To understand the formation of the upper bow, we must consider the possible mechanisms at play. If it is a result of deformed raindrops, these drops would need to be partially prolate. On the other hand, if ice spheres are responsible, the red hue of a pure ice sphere bow would be expected to appear 3.7° further out than that of a water bow. Additionally, the optical quality of the ice spheres or pellets would need to be exceptionally high to produce such a distinct and pronounced effect.

The irregular appearance and broader shape of the upper bow in Rod Herdman's photograph raise intriguing possibilities for further exploration and study. Scientists and atmospheric optics enthusiasts alike are left pondering the exact nature of this phenomenon and its underlying causes. Could it be a combination of factors or an entirely new phenomenon yet to be fully understood?

The Enigma of Atmospheric Optics

Atmospheric optics is a captivating field that continuously surprises us with its complexity and diversity. From the familiar sight of rainbows to more enigmatic phenomena like split rainbows, it reminds us of the intricate interplay between light and the atmosphere. These captivating displays offer a glimpse into the fascinating physics that govern our natural world.

Capturing Nature's Wonders

Rod Herdman's photograph serves as a testament to the power of observation and the beauty that can be found in the most unexpected moments. It reminds us to keep our eyes open to the wonders that surround us, even in seemingly ordinary settings. Nature has a way of surprising us with its artistry, and by capturing these moments, we can share in their splendor and contribute to our understanding of the natural world.

The Importance of Documentation

Photographs like Rod Herdman's not only inspire awe but also play a vital role in scientific research. By documenting rare atmospheric phenomena, they provide valuable data that can help unravel the mysteries of our atmosphere. Researchers can analyze these images, study the unique features they capture, and develop theories to explain the underlying processes. Each photograph adds another piece to the puzzle, bringing us closer to a comprehensive understanding of atmospheric optics.

A Continuing Journey of Discovery

As we explore the world of atmospheric optics, we embark on a never-ending journey of discovery. Every new observation, every unusual phenomenon, presents an opportunity to deepen our understanding of the intricate workings of our atmosphere. The more we learn, the more we realize how much there is still to uncover. Through ongoing research and the dedication of passionate individuals like Rod Herdman, we inch closer to unraveling the secrets of the sky and unlocking the mysteries of these captivating optical phenomena.

Conclusion

The photograph captured by Rod Herdman in Whitacre, Warwickshire, England, offers a captivating glimpse into the world of split rainbows. Its unusual features challenge our existing understanding and ignite curiosity about the mechanisms behind these phenomena. As we continue to document and study atmospheric optics, we move closer to unraveling the mysteries of our atmosphere and appreciating the awe-inspiring beauty that nature has to offer.

Another Strange Rainbow ~ A split rainbow with odd features imaged by Rod Herdman at Whitacre, Warwickshire, England. ©Rod Herdman, shown with permission.

Split or twinned rainbows are rare and usually short lived. This one lasted for at least four minutes. The shower was quite localised and it was not windy yet twinned bows tend to occur more in stormy conditions.

The close-up enhanced image below shows unusual features. The 'extra' bow of the twin is usually thought to be the lower of the pair. That would be consistent with its formation from slightly flattened raindrops. The lower bow here looks regular and has 2-3 supernumerary bows inside it signalling small (and therefore spherical) raindrops.

It is the upper of the twins that looks irregular, it has a lumpy appearance with a varying separation from the lower bow. It is also slightly broader.

Perhaps, as in an earlier OPOD, twinning can take place with the 'extraordinary bow' above the regular one. That helps explain the appearance sometimes of supernumeraries inside the lower twin. But the formation of the 'e-bow' then becomes more problematic. If from deformed drops, they need to be prolate at least in part. If from ice spheres the the red of a pure ice sphere bow would be 3.7� further out than that of the water bow red. Additionally the spheres or ice pellets would need to be of unusually good optical quality.

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Reference Atmospheric Optics

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