What Is Alpenglow?

What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. What is alpenglow?

The Big Idea

Alpenglow is the pink-orange glow on snowy peaks just before sunrise or after sunset! It is one of the prettiest sights in the mountains, and it has been enjoyed for ages. And it only lasts a few minutes.

Valley in Shadow

Step one: the valley is dark. Just before sunrise or after sunset, the valley below is already in shadow. The Sun is below the horizon, so direct sunlight cannot reach the ground there.

Light Bounces

Step two: light bounces. Even so, the Sun's light still skims the sky. It bounces off the air and clouds and lights up the peaks.

Pink Glow

Step three: a pink glow. The light looks pink and orange, because the long path through air takes away most of the blue light. The glow can last a few minutes and then fade. Soon the whole mountain is dark.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look! The Sun has dipped below the horizon. Its light still reaches the air and clouds. That light bounces onto the snowy peak. And the snow glows pink and orange.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! The word alpenglow comes from the Alps. Alpen is a German word for the Alps. Snow works best, because it is bright and reflects light well. Pale rock can glow, too. Look for it near sunrise or sunset, and always with a grown-up.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! Use a pink-orange crayon to color the top of a mountain drawing. Use dark blue for the valley. Notice the contrast between the glowing peak and the dark valley. That is just what alpenglow looks like!

Outro

Alpenglow is the pink glow of reflected sunlight on mountain tops. Science is amazing! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!