Why shadows appear blue on snow
Have you ever wondered why a shadow on snow appears blue? Goethe already dealt extensively with this phenomenon in his color theory. Basically, this can be traced back to the fact that white surfaces reflect light and the shades manage without light and therefore reflect the bluish sky. Unfortunately, this does not come through clearly in photos.
Reasons why shadows in snow reflect the color blue
If you observe shadows in the snow as the sun sets, they do not appear black or gray, but blue. You can see this in every winter landscape at sunrise and sunset.
- This effect is due to the fact that white surfaces, like snow, reflect light. This just doesn't work with the shades, as these are always dark.
- The shades, however, reflect surrounding colors, such as the blue of the sky.
- If you observe the effect under a bright sky, you have the proof. However, if the sky is cloudy, the shades appear gray to black.
- Unfortunately, you cannot capture this effect very well in photos. This is due to the fact that colors and light are often not reproduced as they are perceived by the eye.
- The reason for this play of colors is that the white surface is illuminated and a backlight falls on the shades.
It is known to many people that the color blue is a complementary color. …
This is how you can create blue shadows in the experiment at home
Anyone who has ever heard of Goethe's theory of colors will not be surprised that the German poet was very enthusiastic about light, shades and colors. He himself conducted experiments with colored shades that you can imitate at home.
- To do this, you need a long-burning candle, a piece of paper and a pencil.
- In the garden, place the candle on the white sheet of paper. That then mimics the snow. Light the candle.
- It is important that you do this at dusk so that you have the necessary back light.
- Now place the pencil between the candle and the twilight. Watch the pencil's blue shadow appear.
