Reflected from the surface of the sea, and extending in a broken curved line from the extremities of the rainbow nearly up to the pier, was a complete reproduction of the colours in the sky ...

is their unique ability to reflect light as rainbow colors. It's certainly a cool look, but have you ever wondered how it happens? To answer this requires little more than some basic science know-how.

ON September 18, 1889, I saw a rainbow, caused, not by the direct rays of the sun, but by their reflection from the sea. You have full access to this article via your institution.

“This is referred to as interference — interfering with the ability to reflect,” Mr. Siegrist said. “The shimmering rainbow effect is caused by a second laser treatment, which creates a ...