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Editorial Type:
Article

The Secrets of the Best Rainbows on Earth

Steven Businger 1
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  • 1 University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, Honolulu, Hawaii
Published-online:
26 Feb 2021
Print Publication:
01 Feb 2021
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1175/BAMS-D-20-0101.1
Page(s):
E338–E350
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Abstract

This paper makes a case for why Hawaii is the rainbow capital of the world. It begins by briefly touching on the cultural and historical significance of rainbows in Hawaii. Next it provides an overview of the science behind the rainbow phenomenon, which provides context for exploring the meteorology that helps explain the prevalence of Hawaiian rainbows. Last, the paper discusses the art and science of chasing rainbows.

© 2021 American Meteorological Society. For information regarding reuse of this content and general copyright information, consult the AMS Copyright Policy (www.ametsoc.org/PUBSReuseLicenses).

Corresponding author: Dr. Steven Businger, businger@hawaii.edu

Abstract

This paper makes a case for why Hawaii is the rainbow capital of the world. It begins by briefly touching on the cultural and historical significance of rainbows in Hawaii. Next it provides an overview of the science behind the rainbow phenomenon, which provides context for exploring the meteorology that helps explain the prevalence of Hawaiian rainbows. Last, the paper discusses the art and science of chasing rainbows.

© 2021 American Meteorological Society. For information regarding reuse of this content and general copyright information, consult the AMS Copyright Policy (www.ametsoc.org/PUBSReuseLicenses).

Corresponding author: Dr. Steven Businger, businger@hawaii.edu
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