Why Does Light Travel Through Glass But Not Opaque Objects?

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    Glass Light Travel
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the question of why light can travel through glass but not through opaque objects. It explores the underlying mechanisms of light transmission, absorption, and reflection in different materials.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant requests an explanation of how light travels through glass and not opaque objects.
  • Another participant references a FAQ post discussing the collective behavior of electrons in solids and how certain materials absorb and emit specific colors of light, suggesting that the electric and magnetic constants of materials influence light behavior.
  • A participant shares their enjoyment of Richard Feynman's lectures on light, indicating a personal engagement with the topic.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion does not reach a consensus, as it includes a mix of requests for explanations and personal reflections on related educational content without resolving the initial question.

Contextual Notes

The discussion lacks detailed technical definitions and does not fully explore the implications of the electric and magnetic constants mentioned. There are also no specific mathematical steps provided to clarify the claims made.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in the properties of light, material science, or those seeking educational resources on optics may find this discussion relevant.

nickthrop101
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Please can somebody explain to me how and why light travels through glass into our eyes, as it doesn't in opaque objects?
 
Science news on Phys.org
On the faq post # 4
https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=104715
it talks about how the electrons form the collective behavior of the solid, And how certain materials can absorb and remit certain colors of light.
And how much light will get reflected transmitted or absorbed will depend on the electric and magnetic constants of the material.
<br /> \epsilon<br />
and \mu<br />
 
Hi Cragar,

Iin another thread I can't find it any more, you linked to some lectures on light by Richard Feynman

totally enjoyed the 3 lectures :) learned lots Have always enjoyed listening to him.
pity he passed on way too early.

just wanted to say thanks for the link :)

Dave
 
ya no problem
 
hey, what lectures, please can you send me the thread ;) thanks
 
thanks Cragar

was looking back through previous topics and couldt find it hahaha

Dave
 

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