What Makes Sea Water Blue? Understanding Ocean Coloration
Discover why sea water appears blue due to light absorption and scattering effects.
364 views
Sea water appears blue primarily due to the way water absorbs and scatters sunlight. Water absorbs colors in the red part of the light spectrum and scatters colors in the blue spectrum, making the ocean look blue. Additionally, reflections from the sky also contribute to this blue hue.
FAQs & Answers
- Why does ocean water appear blue? Ocean water appears blue mainly because it absorbs red light and scatters blue light during sunlight interaction.
- What colors does water absorb? Water absorbs colors in the red part of the light spectrum, which is why it tends to look blue in larger bodies.
- Does the sky affect the color of the sea? Yes, reflections from the sky can enhance the blue hue of the ocean, contributing to its overall appearance.
- Are there other factors that can change the color of sea water? Yes, factors such as algae, sediments, and depth can influence the color of sea water, making it appear green, brown, or even red.