Glass Transparency: Visible Light vs. IR/UV

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SUMMARY

Glass is transparent to visible light due to the energy levels of its electrons, which do not absorb photons in the visible spectrum. In contrast, glass is opaque to ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) light because the higher energy UV photons are absorbed by the electrons, while IR photons match the vibrational frequency of the glass's electrons, leading to absorption. This distinction is crucial for understanding the optical properties of materials.

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  • Understanding of photon energy and electron excitation
  • Basic knowledge of the electromagnetic spectrum
  • Familiarity with vibrational frequencies of materials
  • Concept of light absorption and transmission in materials
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  • Study the principles of photon absorption in different materials
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Students in physics, material scientists, and anyone interested in the optical properties of materials, particularly in applications involving glass and light interaction.

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Homework Statement


Why is glass transparent to visible light but not infrared/UV?

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


I know that it is opaque to UV and transparent to visible light because the higher photons are absorbed by the glass's electrons therefore letting the visible light pass through...

what happens with the IR light?

I was thinking it could be because the frequency of the IR light is equal to the vibrational frequency of the glass's electrons, therefore the glass would absorb the IR?
Thanks
 
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