This discussion focuses on the behavior of light as an electromagnetic wave when interacting with different materials, specifically addressing transparency and reflection. It establishes that an object is transparent if light causes electrons within it to oscillate and emit light of the same frequency, allowing it to pass through. The conversation also clarifies that while light can reflect off surfaces, air is not visible under normal conditions, but can be seen when bubbles are created underwater, demonstrating the principles of light refraction and reflection.
PREREQUISITESStudents of physics, educators explaining optics, and anyone interested in the behavior of light in different materials.
Thanks, so an object is transparent if light causes electrons in the object to oscillate, all the way through, until the same frequency light is emitted out the other side?davenn said:have a look at this video and text
http://education-portal.com/academy...aterials-in-electromagnetic-waves.html#lesson
It is. That, and refraction, are how you can see glass or water or diamonds or other transparent materials.k9b4 said:consider the electrons right on the surface of the object on the side of the incoming light. The light is causing them to oscillate; why is light not also reflected back to my eyes, enabling me to see air or other transparent materials?
But I can't see air. I understand how I can see diamonds and glass, but I don't understand how I can see air?DaleSpam said:It is. That, and refraction, are how you can see glass or water or diamonds or other transparent materials.
Sure you can. Go underwater and blow bubbles. You will definitely be able to see air in the same way that you can see other transparent materials.k9b4 said:But I can't see air. I understand how I can see diamonds and glass, but I don't understand how I can see air?
Good point. Thanks.DaleSpam said:Sure you can. Go underwater and blow bubbles. You will definitely be able to see air in the same way that you can see other transparent materials.