Why is the sky Blue

The color of the sky is something we have all wondered about and every child is destined to ask about. It is a part of the world we see every day and, yet, all too often, do not give a second thought. So, then, what makes the sky blue?

The color of the sky is something we have all wondered about and every child is destined to ask about. It is a part of the world we see every day and, yet, all too often, do not give a second thought. So, then, what makes the sky blue?

To understand the sky's color, people must first know that white light is actually comprised of an entire spectrum of colors. Also, the air in our atmosphere is comprised of many components, but mostly nitrogen and oxygen. There is also a good deal of water vapor, dust and other particles in the air.

The light coming from the sun is originally white, but, when it hits the Earth's atmosphere, certain colors of light are absorbed and others are refracted (bounced off in various directions). Since not all of the colors come through, we see a sun that appears to be yellow. Furthermore, the

particles and molecules in the atmosphere cause the color blue to be bounced around throughout the sky, causing us to see a sky filled with blue.

Beautiful sunsets occur because the sun's light has to travel through more of the atmosphere when it is closer to the horizon. Passing through more atmosphere means there are more molecules and particles to refract the light, thereby causing other colors, like reds and oranges, to be bounced around.

Interestingly, in space, the sun appears white and the sky is dark black, despite the sun's bright light. This is because there is no atmosphere to filter the colors and refract the light.

So, next time you take a walk outside, take a moment to consider things you might otherwise dismiss. It is important to continuously ask questions about our environment and the world around us and not be afraid to ask questions like "Why is the sky blue?"