Why do sticky substances tend to be shiny?

Thread starter BT2
Start date Oct 22, 2012

In summary, sticky substances tend to be shiny because of their molecular structure, which allows them to adhere to other surfaces and reflect light. The stickiness and shininess in substances is caused by their chemical composition, specifically the presence of polar bonds. The strength of the shine in sticky substances depends on the type and amount of polar bonds, as well as the thickness and smoothness of the substance's surface. While most sticky substances are shiny, there are some exceptions, such as substances that are sticky due to their texture or surface features. Sticky substances can also lose their shine over time due to exposure to external factors or accumulation of dust and dirt on the surface.

Oct 22, 2012

BT2

Any ideas?

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Oct 22, 2012

Borek

Mentor

First of all - do they?

Second - we like to see you trying to find the answer before helping. That's part of the policy outlined in the forum rules.

1. Why do sticky substances tend to be shiny?

Sticky substances tend to be shiny because of their physical properties. The stickiness of a substance is due to its molecular structure, which allows it to adhere to other surfaces. This same molecular structure also causes light to reflect off the surface, giving it a shiny appearance.

2. What causes the stickiness and shininess in substances?

The stickiness and shininess in substances is caused by their chemical composition. Most sticky substances contain molecules with polar bonds, which allow them to attract other molecules and stick to surfaces. The same polar bonds are also responsible for the shiny appearance, as they reflect light in a specific way.

3. Why do some sticky substances have a stronger shine than others?

The strength of the shine in sticky substances depends on the type and amount of polar bonds present in the molecules. Substances with more polar bonds will have a stronger shine because they have a greater ability to reflect light. Additionally, the thickness and smoothness of the substance's surface can also affect the intensity of its shine.

4. Are there any exceptions to the rule that sticky substances are shiny?

While most sticky substances tend to be shiny, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, some substances may be sticky due to their texture or surface features, rather than their chemical composition. These substances may not have a shiny appearance, but they are still sticky because of their ability to adhere to other surfaces.

5. Can sticky substances lose their shine over time?

Yes, sticky substances can lose their shine over time due to factors such as exposure to air, heat, or other chemicals. These external factors can cause changes in the molecular structure of the substance, altering its ability to reflect light and reducing its shine. Additionally, dust and dirt can also accumulate on the surface of a sticky substance, dulling its shine.