Sunset rays - Ontario, Canada

Last updated on September 16, 2023

The Enchanting Sunset Rays of Ontario, Canada

Ontario, Canada is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, and one of the most mesmerizing sights in this region is the phenomenon of sunset rays. These ethereal beams of light create a captivating display in the sky, leaving spectators in awe of the wonders of nature. While the existing content touches upon some aspects of this phenomenon, let us delve deeper into the science behind sunset rays and explore the various factors that contribute to their enchanting appearance.

Sunset rays, also known as crepuscular rays, appear to radiate upwards from the horizon. However, this is merely an optical illusion caused by perspective effects. In reality, these rays slant gently downwards, extending to the ground behind the observer. Understanding this phenomenon adds to the sense of wonderment as we contemplate the beauty of these celestial beams.

The vibrant colors of a sunset are a result of light interacting with the atmosphere. As the sun dips lower on the horizon, its rays have to traverse longer distances through the air. This extended path allows for greater scattering of light by dust and aerosol particles suspended in the atmosphere, as well as by the air molecules themselves. The shorter wavelength blue light is scattered more strongly than the longer wavelength red light, resulting in the sun's residual transmitted rays appearing rich in reds and oranges.

The warm pinkish hues of the sunset rays stand out against the backdrop of blue scattered light from the sky. This contrast is a visual representation of the differential scattering of light by various wavelengths. While the rays themselves are made visible through scattering, their retention of the sun's reddened hues indicates that their light was scattered by relatively large water droplets or aerosols present in the lower levels of the atmosphere. These larger particles, known as Mie scatterers, do not preferentially scatter shorter wavelengths like blue light, allowing the reds and oranges to dominate in the sunset rays.

The clouds that serve as the canvas for these radiant beams often present a striking sight. The undersides of the clouds appear dark because the near-horizontal sunlight struggles to penetrate through them. However, some of the cloud rims may exhibit traces of "silver linings," where the sunlight manages to peek through gaps or thinner areas of the cloud cover. These subtle variations in the cloud's interaction with sunlight add to the overall beauty of the scene.

When observing the sky near the sun for other atmospheric optical phenomena such as halos, iridescent clouds, and coronae, it can be advantageous to view it through reflections in water. The dimmer water reflections tend to amplify and intensify the colors, allowing for a clearer and more vivid observation of these phenomena. Taking a moment to appreciate the interplay between the sky, the sun, and its reflection on water can provide a unique perspective and enhance our understanding of atmospheric optics.

As we gaze at the sun and nearby trees and their reflections, it is important to note that reflected scenes are not mirror images of reality. Due to differences in perspective and the position of our eyes, these reflections may deviate from what we perceive as the "real view." Embracing these slight variations adds to the intrigue and complexity of our visual experience.

In conclusion, sunset rays in Ontario, Canada are a captivating spectacle that showcases the interplay between light, atmosphere, and natural elements. Understanding the science behind this phenomenon deepens our appreciation for the beauty of nature. The vibrant colors, the gentle slant of the rays, and the interplay with clouds and reflections all contribute to the enchanting experience of witnessing a sunset in this picturesque region. So, next time you find yourself in Ontario during sunset, take a moment to immerse yourself in the mesmerizing display of sunset rays and let nature's wonders fill you with awe.

Sunset rays Ontario, Canada by Lauri Kangas (site) 9th September 2002. ©2002 Lauri A Kangas.

The rays appear to radiate upwards because of perspective effects. In reality they are slanting gently downwards to reach the ground behind the camera .

Lauri's colour essay tells us much about light and the atmosphere. The sunset colours result from light scattered by very small dust and aerosol particles and the air itself. The scattering is greatest when the sun is low and its rays traverse long distances through the air. Shorter wavelength blue light is scattered more strongly than red leaving the sun's residual transmitted rays rich in reds and orange.

The rays show this reddening by their warm pinkish hues contrasting with the background blue scattered light from the sky. The rays themselves are made visible by scattering, but that they retain the sun's reddened hues indicates that their light was scattered by relatively large water droplets or aerosols in the lower atmospheric levels. These particles are Mie scatterers; unlike very small particles they do not preferentially scatter blues and other shorter wavelengths.

The cloud undersides are dark because the near horizontal sunlight does not penetrate them. Some of their rims have traces of "silver linings".

The dimmer water reflections appear to have deeper colours. When searching the sky near the sun for halos, iridescent clouds and coronae it is useful to view it by reflection in water.

Look carefully at the sun and nearby trees and their reflections. Reflected scenes are not "mirror images"! They differ from the real view because the effective eye positions for setting the perspective of

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Reference Atmospheric Optics

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