Chapter 21: Problem 20

Briefly explain why some transparent materials appear colored while others are colorless.

Short Answer

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Answer: The main factor responsible for the appearance of color in transparent materials is the selective absorption and transmission of light wavelengths. The chemical structure of a material determines which wavelengths of light will be absorbed and which will be transmitted. Materials with a structure that allows for the selective absorption of specific wavelengths, such as complexes made of metal ions or chromophores in organic compounds, are likely to appear colored.

Step by step solution

Understanding Light Absorption and Transmission

Transparent materials allow light to pass through them without scattering it in different directions. When light passes through a material, some wavelengths are absorbed, and others are transmitted. If a material absorbs all or most wavelengths of light (except for specific colors), it will appear colorless. If a material absorbs only specific wavelengths or colors of light and transmits others, it will appear colored.

Discussing Light Spectrum

To understand why certain transparent materials appear colored, it's essential to know about the spectrum of visible light. Visible light consists of a range of colors, each corresponding to a specific wavelength. The visible spectrum ranges typically from violet (with the shortest wavelength) to red (with the longest wavelength). If a material absorbs certain wavelengths of light and transmits others, it will reflect back the color associated with the transmitted wavelengths.

Chemical Structure and its Role in Absorption

The chemical structure of a material plays a significant role in determining which wavelengths of light will be absorbed and which will be transmitted. Materials with a structure that allows for the selective absorption of specific wavelengths will likely appear colored. These structures can include complexes made of metal ions or different chromophores (light-absorbing groups) present in organic compounds.

Comparing Colored and Colorless Materials

A colored transparent material absorbs specific wavelengths of visible light and selectively transmits others, resulting in the appearance of color. Examples of such materials are stained glass or colored liquids. On the other hand, colorless materials do not selectively absorb any visible light wavelengths and transmit (or weakly absorb) all visible wavelengths. Examples of colorless materials include clear water or glass. By understanding the process of selective absorption and transmission of light by transparent materials, it becomes clear why some appear colored and others colorless.

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Briefly explain why some transparent materials appear colored while others are colorless.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understanding Light Absorption and Transmission

Discussing Light Spectrum

Chemical Structure and its Role in Absorption

Comparing Colored and Colorless Materials

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