Chapter 27, Problem 16A

What happens to the energy of light when it encounters an opaque material?

To determine

What happens to energy of light when it encounters an opaque material

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

When the light encounters on an opaque material, the energy of light absorbed by it.

The opaque material absorbs some of the light that strikes them. When light is absorbed by the opaque material the light energy converted into Thermal energy (Heat energy) and the material heats up.

For example, the energy of the sunlight absorbed by the glass (Opaque material) of the window in our home, then it heats up. If we touch the glass, we feel it as warm.

Conclusion:

When the light strikes any opaque material the energy of the light absorbed by it and converted in to heat energy.