How Does Light Interact with Matter in Our Atmosphere?

In summary, we discussed the concept of transparency and how it relates to the passage of light through a medium. We learned that the molecular structure of liquids and the absence of structural defects play a role in high optical transparency. When light passes through the atmosphere, it can either continue in a straight path or interact with particles and molecules in its way. This interaction can result in reflection, absorption, and re-emission of light. Refraction, in simpler terms, is the bending of light as it passes through different mediums. Further information on this topic can be found on the page provided.
  • #1
gemma786
29
0
Hi
I would like to ask that what makes a transparent medium transparent ? What happens when a photons of light passes through our atmosphere ?
I suppose that visible spectrum of light passes through atmosphere without causing excitation of electrons of gases' molecules, but what happens when photon doesn't excite electron and still encounter matter does it just passes through it or bounce back ?
In other words what is refraction? Is it passages of photons through interstitial spaces or absorption and then re-emission of same photons? :confused:
 
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  • #2
The molecular structure of liquids and the absence of structural defects are responsible for high optical transparency.
As light moves theough the atmosphere it continues to go straight until it bumps into a bit of dust or a gas molecule. then what happens to light depends on its wavelength and the size of the thing it hits.
when it hits large particles it gets reflected or bounced off. when it hits smaller than the wavelngth of visible light it may get absorbed and then radiated.

And go through this page which might help u

>> https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=243807
 

What is light matter interaction?

Light matter interaction refers to the ways in which light interacts with matter, which can include absorption, reflection, refraction, and scattering. This interaction is a fundamental concept in physics and is essential for understanding many natural phenomena.

Why is light matter interaction important?

Light matter interaction is important because it allows us to understand and control the behavior of light and matter. This is crucial in various fields, including optics, materials science, and quantum mechanics. It also plays a significant role in our daily lives, from the colors we see to the technology we use.

What are some examples of light matter interaction?

Some examples of light matter interaction include the reflection of light off a mirror, the absorption of light by plants during photosynthesis, and the refraction of light through a prism. Other examples include the scattering of sunlight by particles in the atmosphere, and the emission of light by fireflies through a chemical reaction.

How does the interaction between light and matter affect the color of objects?

The interaction between light and matter determines the color of objects. The color of an object is determined by the wavelengths of light that it reflects or absorbs. For example, a red apple appears red because it absorbs all wavelengths of light except for red, which it reflects. This is due to the specific molecular structure of the apple's skin.

How does light matter interaction impact technology?

Light matter interaction plays a crucial role in technology, particularly in fields such as optics and photonics. For example, the interaction between light and semiconductors is essential for the functioning of devices such as solar cells, LEDs, and computer processors. Understanding this interaction also allows for the development of new technologies, such as quantum computers and advanced medical imaging techniques.

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