Properties of Light
This is the straight- line path that light travels.
What is a ray?
If light passes through a material with little scattering, the material is called this
What is transparent?
If the flashlight beam is visible through a sample and a clear spot appears on the screen behind it, the material is likely this.
What is transmitted/transparent?
Windows use this property to let light into buildings.
What is transmission?
When light bounces off a smooth surface at one angel equal to the other.
What is reflection?
This type of material allows some light through but scatters it.
What is translucent?
If a material shows no light on the opposite side and the surface is dark, this suggests the light was likely this
What is absorbed?
This property is important for sunscreen and dark clothing choices on hot days
What is absorption?
This occurs when light slows and bends as it passes from one material to another.
What is refraction?
If a material takes in light energy, often heating up, we say light is this
What is absorbed?
When you see a bright spot in the room, especially on shiny foil, that is evidence of this.
What is reflection?
Mirrors use this property to direct light for grooming or scientific instruments
What is reflection?