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In this activity, learners explore why the sky is blue. Learners model the scattering of light by the atmosphere, which creates the blue sky and red sunset, using a flashlight and clear glue sticks. This resource guide includes an explanation of how light scatters and how this scattering can cause the polarization of light.
- Under 5 minutes
- 5 to 10 minutes
- $1 - $5 per student
- Ages 8 - 14
- Activity, Model
- English
Quick Guide
Materials List (per student)
- Mini-MagLite or penlight (a regular flashlight can also be used, but its larger beam of light doesn't work as well)
- 4 to 6 glue sticks (must be the clear ones used in glue guns)
- White background (paper, wall, or cloth)
- Clear packaging tape
- Two polarizing filters
Subjects
-
Earth and Space Science
-
Earth Structure
- Atmosphere
-
Earth Structure
-
Life Sciences
-
Human Senses and Perception
- Vision
-
Human Senses and Perception
-
Physical Sciences
-
Vibration and Waves
- Wave Properties
-
Light and Optics
- Sunlight and Color
-
Vibration and Waves
-
The Nature of Science
-
The Scientific Process
- Conducting Investigations
-
The Scientific Process
Informal Categories
- Nature and Environment
Audience
To use this activity, learners need to:
- see
- see color
- touch
Learning styles supported:
- Involves hands-on or lab activities
Other
This resource is part of:
Access Rights:
- Free access
By:
Rights:
- All rights reserved, The Exploratorium,
Funding Sources:
- National Science Foundation
- California Department of Education
- NEC Foundation of America