The discussion revolves around the question of why light can pass through some materials while being blocked or reflected by others. Participants explore this concept primarily through the lens of light as an electromagnetic wave, with a focus on transparency, reflection, and refraction in various materials.
Participants express differing views on the visibility of air, with some asserting it can be seen under certain conditions while others remain uncertain about this claim. The discussion does not reach a consensus on the visibility of air compared to other transparent materials.
Some participants express confusion about the concepts of reflection and refraction, particularly in relation to air, indicating a need for further clarification on these phenomena.
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.