Exam 16: Optical Phenomena of the Atmosphere

The law of ________ states that the angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection.

In the near vacuum of outer space,light typically travels in a straight line at uniform speed.

The interpretation of a halo around the Moon as a sign of impending rain (or snow)stems from:

The ________ is produced by refraction caused by ice crystals.

Secondary rainbows result from:

When light encounters a rough surface,the rays will strike the surface at ________ angle(s),which tends to ________ the light rays.

The "wet area" or water surface mirage as seen on a highway occurs when:

This type of cloud is most often present when halos form.

The speed of light in water is:

Incident light striking a rough surface is diffused.

Mirages:

________ light allows you to see yourself in a mirror.

Weather proverbs such as "Rainbow in the morning..." can be based on sound scientific facts.

The ________ forms in association with the Moon as well as the Sun.

When light is refracted,the degree of bending is determined in part by:

Rainbows are always seen with the Sun:

When the air near the ground is substantially warmer than the air aloft,the light rays bend with a curvature that is the same as the Earth's.

Reflection always involves the passage of a light ray from one substance into another.

Why are halos and sun dogs associated with cirrus clouds and rainbows with cumulus clouds?

In any direction at an angle of 42 degrees from the path of the Sun's rays,droplets will be directing the color blue toward the observer,thus forming a semicircle of color across the sky.