The solar eclipse on April 8 is not coming alone, but it will be accompanied by some scientific phenomena that promise to fascinate both children and astronomy and science enthusiasts in general. Besides the fact that it will coincide with the passage of Comet Diablo, the Purkinje effect will be evident, so people will see some colors differently.
The solar eclipse on April 8 will “change” colors: the Purkinje effect explained
The Purkinje effect, also known as the Purkinje shift, is a visual phenomenon that occurs when ambient light is reduced. To understand this, we must first know that our retina (part of the eye) has two types of cells: cones and rods. In bright light, we perceive colors primarily through the cones, however when the light becomes dim, the rods take over. Rods are more sensitive to light, but less sensitive to color, which causes a change in color perception.
Reds and oranges look best in light, while blues and greens become more intense in the dark.
This phenomenon is named after Jan Evangelista Purkyñě, a Czech anatomist, naturalist and botanist, who described it in 1819 during his night walks.
The Purkinje effect happens every day in the transition from evening to morning or from a light environment to a dark one, but we usually don’t notice it because the changes are usually very slow or abrupt.
However, the 2024 solar eclipse will give us time to transition from day to ideal “night” (a few minutes) so that it is more easily perceived. In addition, thousands of people will take the time to observe it and its effects around them.
What colors should I wear on April 8 during the solar eclipse?
The decision is entirely personal, but if you want to appreciate the Purkinje effect more clearly, the recommendation is to wear green or blue clothing or accessories, which will appear brighter and more vivid during the eclipse, while other colors such as red will appear duller.
Additionally, a contrasting combination of green and red can be used to create an even more striking effect.
Is the solar eclipse dangerous?
The event itself does not represent any danger to humanity or the planet in general. However, those wishing to view it should take precautions to ensure safe viewing.
The main thing is not to look directly at the Sun without protection, since its radiation can irreparably damage the eyes.
The only safe way to see the star in a solar eclipse is with certified solar filters, either lenses or filters for cameras, telescopes or otherwise.
You should never use regular sunglasses, x-rays, telescopes, cameras or non-certified filters.
Are you excited to watch the solar eclipse on April 8? Let us know in the comments if you will be doing anything special that day.
Source: univision
Camila Luna is a writer at Gossipify, where she covers the latest movies and television series. With a passion for all things entertainment, Camila brings her unique perspective to her writing and offers readers an inside look at the industry. Camila is a graduate from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) with a degree in English and is also a avid movie watcher.
