The Basics of Optics
Optics is the science of light. Light is a form of energy that travels in a straight line until something comes in its way. Light can be reflected, refracted or absorbed by other materials. The speed of light is 186,000 miles per second! Its speed changes as it comes in contact with another object.
Transparent objects allow nearly all light to pass through it. For example, your classroom window is a transparent object which allows sunlight to pass through it. Can you name any other objects that are transparent?
Translucent objects allow some light to pass through it. This light is usually scattered. For example, when you hold up a sheet of white paper you will so some light passing through it. Can you name any other objects that are translucent?
Opaque objects are those that do not allow any light to pass through it. If you shine a flashlight at your science file you will notice that it does not allow any light to pass through it creating a shadow.
Shadows are created by an object which does not allow any light to pass through it. When more light is blocked, a larger shadow is formed.
Transparent objects allow nearly all light to pass through it. For example, your classroom window is a transparent object which allows sunlight to pass through it. Can you name any other objects that are transparent?
Translucent objects allow some light to pass through it. This light is usually scattered. For example, when you hold up a sheet of white paper you will so some light passing through it. Can you name any other objects that are translucent?
Opaque objects are those that do not allow any light to pass through it. If you shine a flashlight at your science file you will notice that it does not allow any light to pass through it creating a shadow.
Shadows are created by an object which does not allow any light to pass through it. When more light is blocked, a larger shadow is formed.