Sunset colors are created by a phenomenon called Rayleigh scattering. It's the same phenomenon that makes the sky appear blue during the day. ... Nitrogen and oxygen molecules in our atmosphere act as little mirrors for blue and violet light, in particular. That means not as much blue or violet light reaches the ground.

Research shows that sunsets have many psychological effects that enhance the long-lasting satisfaction of in life and physical benefits and have been proven to relieve stress.

Sunset is distinct from twilight, which is divided into three stages, the first being civil twilight, which begins once the Sun has disappeared below the horizon, and continues until it descends to 6 degrees below the horizon; the second phase is nautical twilight, between 6 and 12 degrees below the horizon; and the third is astronomical twilight, which is the period when the Sun is between 12 and 18 degrees below the horizon. Dusk is at the very end of astronomical twilight, and is the darkest moment of twilight just before night. Night occurs when the Sun reaches 18 degrees below the horizon and no longer illuminates the sky.

So next time you're having a rough day, drive to your favorite spot and watch your worries fade away. It gives you a reason to go outside.