How does the reflection of light work?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the mechanics of light reflection, specifically how photons interact with surfaces. When a photon, such as one with the frequency of orange light, strikes an object like a tomato, it is absorbed rather than reflected. In contrast, when it hits an orange, the photon may reflect due to the interaction with the surface's atomic structure. The role of excited electrons in this process is also highlighted, indicating their significance in the reflection phenomenon. Richard Feynman's book "QED" is recommended for a deeper understanding of these concepts.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of photon behavior in physics
  • Basic knowledge of atomic structure and electron excitation
  • Familiarity with light frequency and color perception
  • Awareness of reflection principles in optics
NEXT STEPS
  • Read Richard Feynman's "QED" for insights on quantum electrodynamics
  • Explore the Wikipedia article on Reflection in Physics for foundational knowledge
  • Investigate the role of excited electrons in light absorption and reflection
  • Study the differences in light interaction with various materials
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators explaining optics, and anyone interested in the fundamental principles of light behavior and reflection.

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Hello. How does light get reflected? Do photons act like balls which bounce off a surface? If I shoot a single photon which has a frequency of an orange color, and that photon hits a tomato, it should get absorbed, right?
What if it hits an orange? Will it bounce off an atom? How does that bouncing work? Do excited electrons play their role in here?
 
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Gytax said:
Hello. How does light get reflected? Do photons act like balls which bounce off a surface? If I shoot a single photon which has a frequency of an orange color, and that photon hits a tomato, it should get absorbed, right?
What if it hits an orange? Will it bounce off an atom? How does that bouncing work? Do excited electrons play their role in here?

I didn't understand it until I read Richard Feynman's book QED. It is not at all obvious.
 

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