The Science of Sunbeams

The video explains crepuscular rays, commonly seen in social media photos with inspirational quotes. These rays occur when sunlight passes through air with particles like dust and water, scattering light. Crepuscular rays appear white due to equal scattering of light colors, but can appear redder at sunset. Visibility requires both particles and an obstruction like clouds. Crepuscular rays appear to radiate from the sun due to perspective, though they are parallel. Anticrepuscular rays appear on the opposite horizon. Astronauts confirm their parallel nature from space.

What are crepuscular rays and how are they formed?

• They are beams of light formed by sunlight passing through water.

• They are beams of light formed by moonlight passing through air with particles.

• They are beams of light formed by sunlight passing through air with particles.

• They are beams of light formed by sunlight passing through clear air.

Why do crepuscular rays often appear white?

• Because they are formed by sunlight hitting small particles that scatter blue light.

• Because they are formed by sunlight hitting nitrogen.

• Because they are formed by sunlight hitting large particles that scatter all colors equally.

• Because they are formed by sunlight hitting water droplets.

What conditions are necessary for crepuscular rays to be visible?

• Only during a solar eclipse.

• A lot of dust or moisture in the air and something blocking sunlight.

• Only clouds in the sky.

• Clear skies and no obstructions.

What is the role of perspective in the appearance of crepuscular rays?

• It makes the rays appear to diverge from the sun.

• It makes the rays appear to converge at the sun.

• It makes the rays appear to be circular.

• It makes the rays appear to be zigzag.

What are anticrepuscular rays?

• Rays that appear only at noon.

• Rays that appear only during a solar eclipse.

• Rays that appear to converge at the sun.

• Rays that appear to radiate from an invisible sun on the opposite horizon.