Why is the ocean blue?

Why does the ocean look blue?

The ocean appears blue primarily due to the absorption and scattering of light. Water absorbs colors in the red part of the light spectrum and reflects the blue light.

So, is it the same for lakes and rivers?

Not exactly! Lakes and rivers can appear different colors depending on factors like depth, sediment, and algae. They often reflect the colors of the sky as well.

What about the ocean at sunset? Why does it change color?

At sunset, the angle of sunlight changes, causing more red and orange wavelengths to scatter, which can make the ocean appear vibrant shades of red, pink, or purple.

Are there any other factors that affect ocean color?

Yes, factors like phytoplankton blooms, pollution, and the presence of sediments can significantly alter the color of the ocean.