Scientific Origins of Supernumerary Rainbows

• Rare display of multiple supernumerary rainbows captured over New Jersey
• Phenomena explained by the wave nature of light rather than simple reflection

Formation Mechanics

• Occurs when falling raindrops are uniform in size and typically under a millimeter in diameter
• Sunlight undergoes interference, a wave-like phenomenon similar to ripples on a pond, rather than just internal reflection
• At least five distinct bands were recorded in the featured image

Historical Significance

• Observation of these rainbows in the early 19th century provided early evidence for the wave theory of light
• The specific image was captured by photographer John Entwistle following the remnants of Hurricane Florence in 2018