Glass Transparency: Visible Light vs. IR/UV

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In summary, visible light is the portion of the electromagnetic spectrum that is visible to the human eye, while IR/UV radiation refers to invisible light with longer and shorter wavelengths. Glass is transparent to visible light but can absorb or reflect IR/UV radiation, making it important to consider when using it for windows or other applications. Quartz glass is the most transparent to IR/UV radiation and glass can be coated or treated to selectively block certain wavelengths for protection or specific functions.
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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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What is the difference between visible light and IR/UV radiation?

Visible light is the portion of the electromagnetic spectrum that is visible to the human eye and includes colors such as red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet. IR/UV radiation, on the other hand, refers to infrared and ultraviolet light which are invisible to the human eye but have longer and shorter wavelengths respectively compared to visible light.

How does the transparency of glass differ for visible light and IR/UV radiation?

Glass is transparent to visible light, allowing it to pass through without significant absorption or reflection. However, glass is not completely transparent to IR/UV radiation and can absorb or reflect a significant amount of these wavelengths depending on the type of glass and its thickness.

Why is it important to consider IR/UV radiation when using glass for windows or other applications?

IR/UV radiation can cause damage to materials and objects, such as fading of fabrics and furniture, and can also be harmful to human health. Therefore, it is important to consider the transparency of glass to these wavelengths when using it for windows or other applications to minimize these effects.

What type of glass is most transparent to IR/UV radiation?

Quartz glass, also known as fused silica, is the most transparent type of glass to IR/UV radiation. It is commonly used in scientific and industrial applications that require high transparency to these wavelengths.

Can glass be made to selectively block certain wavelengths of IR/UV radiation?

Yes, glass can be coated or treated to selectively block certain wavelengths of IR/UV radiation. This is commonly done using thin films or coatings that are designed to reflect or absorb specific wavelengths while allowing others to pass through. This is useful for applications where certain wavelengths need to be blocked for protection or to achieve a specific function.

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