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Chapter 21: Problem 20

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

Short Answer

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Question: Explain the reasons behind the appearance of colors in some transparent materials while others are colorless. Answer: The appearance of colors in transparent materials is due to the absorption of specific wavelengths of light by the material, the transmission or reflection of the remaining wavelengths, and the structure of the material which can influence the light-material interactions. Colorless transparent materials, on the other hand, have little or no absorption and allow almost all wavelengths of light to pass through without alteration.

Step by step solution

01

Introduction to light and color perception

To understand why some transparent materials appear colored and others colorless, we first need to discuss the basics of light and color perception. Light is an electromagnetic wave containing a spectrum of colors, and when it interacts with a material, it can be reflected, transmitted or absorbed by the material. The colors we perceive are based on the wavelengths of light that are either transmitted or reflected by the material.
02

Absorption of light

The color of transparent materials depends on the amount and wavelength of the light they absorb. In a colorless material, all the wavelengths of light pass through the material without any significant absorption and the transmitted light appears 'white' or colorless to the human eye. On the other hand, if a material absorbs a specific wavelength or range of wavelengths, it will appear colored due to the remaining wavelengths that are transmitted or reflected, which consequently reach our eyes.
03

Transmission and reflection of light

The transmission and reflection of light in a material also play a major role in its appearance. A material that transmits most of the light will appear more transparent, while a material that reflects more light can appear opaque or even mirror-like. In colored transparent materials, the wavelengths that are not absorbed will either be transmitted through the material, contributing to its overall color, or reflected back, causing part of the colored appearance.
04

The role of the material's structure

The structure of a material can greatly influence the way it interacts with light, thus affecting its color. For instance, some materials exhibit a phenomenon known as structural coloration, where their microscopic or nanoscopic structure can cause light to scatter, resulting in the appearance of colors. Additionally, some materials may contain impurities or defects that affect their interactions with light.
05

Conclusion

To sum up, the appearance of colors in transparent materials is due to the absorption of specific wavelengths of light by the material, the transmission or reflection of the remaining wavelengths, and the structure of the material which can influence the light-material interactions. Colorless transparent materials, on the other hand, have little or no absorption and allow almost all wavelengths of light to pass through without alteration.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Briefly explain why amorphous polymers are transparent, while predominantly crystalline polymers appear opaque or, at best, translucent.

Can a material have an index of refraction less than unity? Why or why not?

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