The sky can flash green at sunset because the sun’s light bends as it passes through layers of air. When the sun is just about to set, its light has to travel through more air than usual, and different colors bend in slightly different ways. Sometimes, a quick flash of green appears at the top of the sun before it vanishes below the horizon. It's like when you look at something through a wobbly glass, you might see strange colors for just a second.
Examples
- A child sees a green flash while watching the sun dip below the ocean.
- A hiker notices a brief green light on the edge of the sunset as he walks through the mountains.
- You spot a quick green glow just before the sun disappears behind the buildings.
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See also
- What Causes a ‘Golden’ Sunset or Sunrise?
- What Causes the ‘Flavor’ of a Sunset?
- What Causes a Sunset to Change Color?
- What Causes a ‘Sunset’ and Why Does It Change Colors?
- What Causes the Sky to Change Color During Sunset?
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