Final answer:
According to the principle of Rayleigh scattering, shorter wavelengths scatter more than longer wavelengths. This phenomenon explains why the sky appears blue.
Step-by-step explanation:
The principle of Rayleigh scattering states that shorter wavelengths scatter more than longer wavelengths. This is because shorter wavelengths of light have higher frequencies, which interact more strongly with particles in the atmosphere and cause them to scatter more.
As a result, shorter wavelengths like blue and violet are scattered more in the atmosphere, giving the sky its blue color. On the other hand, longer wavelengths like red and orange are scattered less and can pass through the atmosphere more easily.