Why is glass transparent? More details below.

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    Glass Transparent
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Glass is transparent primarily because it allows visible light to pass through rather than being absorbed or reflected. This transparency results from the behavior of valence electrons in glass, which do not absorb visible light photons effectively. In contrast, mirrors reflect most visible light due to their specific surface coatings. The discussion also touches on the role of photon interactions with atoms, where electrons can jump between orbitals and release energy, but this is less relevant for glass's transparency. Understanding these principles is essential for grasping the scientific basis behind the optical properties 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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