The Mile-Long Light Beams: Tyndall Effect in Shenyang
On November 12th, a rare atmospheric phenomenon known as the Tyndall effect created stunning mile-long light beams in Shenyang, China, leaving photographers and residents in awe of this natural spectacle.
The city of Shenyang witnessed a breathtaking display of nature’s artistry when massive light beams, extending for miles across the sky, appeared through the morning mist. This phenomenon, known as the Tyndall effect, occurs when light passes through a colloidal suspension of particles in the air.
The spectacular display was particularly notable for its scale and clarity. Local photographers, including one who had lived in the area for a decade, described it as an unprecedented sight. The conditions that created this remarkable display were the result of a perfect convergence of environmental factors.
The Tyndall effect occurs when sunlight interacts with suspended particles in the air, such as water droplets or dust. Unlike reflection, this scattering of light happens when the particle size is comparable to the wavelength of the incoming light. The morning timing was crucial - low-angle sunlight combined with high atmospheric moisture and the presence of fog created ideal conditions for the phenomenon.
What makes this event particularly fascinating is its sheer magnitude. While the Tyndall effect can be commonly observed on a smaller scale - such as light beams through forest canopy or in misty conditions - the mile-long beams in Shenyang were exceptional in their scale and visibility.
The physics behind this display involves three types of light scattering: Rayleigh scattering, Tyndall scattering, and Mie scattering. Each occurs with different particle sizes, with the Tyndall effect being most prominent when particles are between 50 nanometers and 1 micrometer in diameter. The morning’s atmospheric conditions in Shenyang provided the perfect combination of particle sizes to create this dramatic effect.
The event serves as a reminder of the intricate relationship between light and matter in our atmosphere. While some observers initially connected the phenomenon to air quality concerns, atmospheric scientists explain that such displays require specific meteorological conditions beyond mere pollution - including temperature, humidity, and the angle of sunlight.
For photographers and nature enthusiasts, this rare display offered a unique opportunity to capture one of nature’s most elegant demonstrations of light physics. The images serve not only as documentation of a remarkable natural phenomenon but also as a testament to the continuing capacity of nature to surprise and inspire.