What happens on the surface of a material

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the interaction of light with materials, specifically how surfaces reflect certain wavelengths while absorbing others. This phenomenon is primarily governed by the behavior of electrons within the material, which can only respond to specific frequencies of incoming light. The process involves absorption and re-emission of light, as well as energy transfer to the surrounding material. A foundational understanding of quantum mechanics and electron energy levels is essential for grasping these concepts.

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shivadevrao
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Hello friends,

Every object has certain color, because it reflects that potion of light & absorbs all other visible radiation,

What is the mechanism that happens on the surface of a body, which makes it reflect certain portion & absorb rest portion.
 
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How much do you know about quantum mechanics and electron energy levels?

The basic idea: electrons in the material cannot react to all incoming light, just some frequency ("color") ranges. In those ranges, they can absorb and re-emit light, or absorb light and release the gained energy to the surrounding material.
That is not a perfect description, and not all processes follow that pattern, but it should give some idea what happens.
 
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I have fair knowledge about electron energy level & quantum mechanics,

can you please guide me to understand this phenomenon.

Thank you.
 

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