Chapter 12, Problem 15STP

To determine

To explain: the difference between an object that appears to be black and an object that appears to be white.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Color is a property of light that depends on the wavelength of the light. If light falls on an object some light is absorbed by the object and some are reflected. The color of an object depends on the wavelength of light it reflects.

The difference between an object which appears white and black is that, white objects look white because they reflect back all the visible wavelengths of light that shine on them. Whereas, an object appears black since the object absorbs all the wavelength of light and does not reflect any color of light. Hence the object appears black. Black is the absence of all light. Objects appear black when they do not reflect any light.

Conclusion:

Thus, the difference between an object that appears black and white has been explained.