Why Does the Sea Look Blue While Water is Clear?

Discover why the sea appears blue and water is clear, revealing the science behind light absorption and scattering.

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The sea appears blue due to the way water absorbs sunlight. Water molecules absorb colors in the red part of the light spectrum, and blue light is scattered, making the sea look blue. Clear water in a smaller quantity, like in a glass, does not show this effect as strongly.

FAQs & Answers

  1. Why does the ocean appear blue? The ocean appears blue because water molecules absorb colors in the red part of the light spectrum while scattering blue light.
  2. Is sea water really blue, or is it just an illusion? Sea water is not inherently blue; it appears blue due to the scattering of sunlight and absorption of other colors by water.
  3. Why is water clear in small quantities? Water is clear in small quantities, like in a glass, because the effects of light absorption and scattering are less pronounced compared to larger bodies of water.
  4. Does the color of the sea change with depth? Yes, the color of the sea can change with depth, which affects how light is absorbed and scattered, contributing to variations in color.