Transparency, Reflection, & EM Rays: Exploring Physical Properties

[Rainbow]

What is the factor that determines whether an object will be transparent, translucent, or opaque?
Also, what makes reflecting surfaces reflect EM rays?

 

[Danger]

Both factors are based upon how the atomic structure of the material interacts with photons of various energy levels (frequencies). Photons are absorbed by atoms, then new ones radiated in some specific direction. Reflection entails the re-radiated particles coming out the same side of the atom that the originals entered. The real scientists around here can provide clarification and even formulae, but it's a start.

 

[sir-pinski]

The factor that determines whether an object will be transparent, translucent, or opaque is the arrangement of its atoms and molecules. Transparent objects have a regular and uniform arrangement of atoms, allowing light to pass through without significant obstruction. Translucent objects have a less organized arrangement, causing some light to pass through while also scattering and diffusing some of it. Opaque objects have a highly irregular and dense arrangement of atoms, preventing light from passing through.

Reflecting surfaces reflect EM rays due to the interaction between the incoming light and the surface's atoms and molecules. When light hits a reflecting surface, the atoms and molecules absorb and re-emit the light in a specific direction, resulting in reflection. The smoothness and uniformity of the surface also play a role in the reflection, as any imperfections or roughness can cause the light to scatter instead of reflecting in a specific direction.