Black Oil - Why Does It Appear All Colors?

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The discussion revolves around the phenomenon of black oil appearing to display multiple colors when observed on a surface, such as a windscreen. Participants are exploring the optical properties of the oil and the underlying physics involved.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning the relationship between the color of the oil and its appearance, with one suggesting that interference effects may be involved. There is also a discussion about how light interacts with thin films, including concepts of refraction and reflection.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with some participants offering hints and suggestions for further exploration, such as comparing the phenomenon to rainbows in soap bubbles. There is an acknowledgment of varying levels of understanding among participants.

Contextual Notes

One participant expresses uncertainty about the explanation provided, indicating a need for further clarification. The original poster is seeking assistance in understanding the concepts discussed.

Marilena1983
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Black oil - colours?

1. How does black oil on a windscreen appear to be all colours?



2. Is it because black absorbs all frequencies of light?



3. I'm not sure how to answer this question can anyone help?
 
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It's nothing to do with the color of the oil
hint - look up interference
 


does this make sense?

the oil it acts like a thin film. The light of different wavelengths (colors) refract and reflect at different angles, and the reflections add up or cancel each other out by superposition depending on the wavelength and angle.
 


Yes - but do you understand that or did you just cat&paste it from wiki?
 


its an explanation someone gave me today but I am still not sure i understand it completely.
 


You may have better luck (because it is a more common) looking into rainbows in soap bubbles. Same principle, but much better hits when searching.
 

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