Why is glass transparent? More details below.

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    Glass Transparent
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SUMMARY

The transparency of glass is primarily due to the behavior of its valence electrons and the absorption and reflection of visible light. Unlike mirrors, which reflect most visible light, glass allows light to pass through because its atomic structure does not absorb significant amounts of visible wavelengths. This phenomenon is explained by the interaction of photons with electrons, where photons can excite electrons to higher energy levels without being absorbed. The discussion references Mott's work, which provides insights into the electronic properties that contribute to glass's transparency.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of photon-electron interactions
  • Familiarity with atomic structure and valence electrons
  • Knowledge of light absorption and reflection principles
  • Basic concepts of quantum mechanics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research Mott's work on electronic properties of materials
  • Study the principles of photon absorption and emission
  • Explore the atomic structure of different materials and their optical properties
  • Learn about the quantum mechanics of light-matter interaction
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics or materials science, educators explaining optical properties, and anyone interested in the fundamental reasons behind the transparency of materials like glass.

LogicalAcid
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I have always thought glass was reflective because all visible light falling upon it was absorbed, and only very little was reflected and able to make contact with our retinas, to little to be noticed, therefore making it transparent. I believe the opposite happens to mirrors, most of the visible light falling upon it is reflected, and very little is absorbed. I know the whole concept of "If a photon hits an atom, the electrons in the atom jump an orbital, but eventually they fall back down and release the excess energy in the form of photons, the higher the orbital they "fell" from, the higher the frequency of the photon emitted. But apparently it has to do with Valence electrons as well, which I haven't had time to study for (I have many High Schools looking out for me, I want to stay with good grades), so I want to get down to the very most detailed reasons of why glass is transparent.
 
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I believe it has to do with Mott's work.
 

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