Shadow Colours

Last updated on September 16, 2023

Shadow Colours: An Exploration of Atmospheric Phenomena

Have you ever noticed the captivating play of colors in shadows during the golden hour before sunset? The interplay between light and shadow creates a mesmerizing spectacle that often goes unnoticed. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of shadow colors and uncover the science behind this enchanting atmospheric phenomenon.

When the sun begins its descent towards the horizon, its light traverses a long, slanting path through the atmosphere. Along this journey, the shorter blue and green wavelengths are preferentially scattered away, leaving behind predominantly longer red wavelengths. Consequently, the sunlight that reaches our eyes during sunset is imbued with a warm reddish hue.

As the sun casts its radiant light upon white objects, such as boards or walls, during sunset, these surfaces become illuminated by the reddened sunlight. At first glance, our eyes and brain may deceive us into perceiving these objects as simply "white." However, if we train ourselves to be more observant, like a painter attuned to subtle color nuances, we can discern the beautiful interplay of shadow colors.

The shadows themselves are not devoid of color; rather, they are illuminated by scattered sunlight that has interacted with the molecules and particles present in the atmosphere. The blue sky acts as a vast canvas for these shadows, casting a cool bluish tint upon them. This phenomenon occurs because the shorter blue wavelengths are scattered more efficiently than the longer red wavelengths by the molecules in the atmosphere. Consequently, the scattered blue light fills the shadowed areas, infusing them with its characteristic hue.

To truly appreciate the intricate dance of colors in shadows, we need to train our eyes to perceive beyond the initial impression of "white." Our eyes, much like a camera, continuously perform white balancing to adjust for variations in lighting conditions. This automatic adjustment can sometimes deceive us into perceiving objects as having uniform color, when in reality, their hues are influenced by the surrounding light and shadows.

As we immerse ourselves in the captivating world of shadow colors, it is important to note that the phenomenon we have explored here is just one facet of a broader field known as atmospheric optics. Atmospheric optics encompasses a myriad of mesmerizing phenomena that arise from the interaction of light with the Earth's atmosphere. From rainbows and halos to mirages and crepuscular rays, our atmosphere offers an endless array of visual wonders for those who dare to observe closely.

In conclusion, the enchanting play of colors in shadows during sunset is a result of the interplay between sunlight, atmospheric particles, and our perception of color. By training ourselves to observe beyond initial impressions and appreciate the subtle nuances of shadow colors, we can unlock a world of beauty that often goes unnoticed. So, the next time you find yourself bathed in the warm glow of a setting sun, take a moment to marvel at the captivating dance of hues within the shadows around you.

Shadow Colours

Byron Winchell of Columbus, Ohio pictured these shortly before sunset.

©Byron R. Winchell, shown with permission.

The white boards are lit by the setting sun. Its light is reddened because blue and green are preferentially scatterd away during the long slanting path through the atmosphere.

The shadows are lit by scattered sunlight - the blue sky.

We have to train ourselves, like a painter, to be aware of colour nuances. The eye and brain does continuous white balancing like a camera and deceives us. Here they will tell us that the boards are "white" and that is what a casual glance will see.

Sunset colours

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Reference Atmospheric Optics

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