Search results
Shortest x-rays and cosmic rays destroy molecules. Energy in visible light is absorbed without damage to cells. Special molecules (visual pigments) make use of changes in electron orbital states. Absorption by water depends on wavelength.
- 4MB
- 27
Many known properties of light could be explained easily by a particle model. For example it was known that when light reflects from a smooth surface, the angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection. This is also how an elastic, frictionless ball bounces from a smooth surface.
- 69KB
- 19
Our understanding of light starts with what light does and what its properties are (Figure 10.1). We know that: • light travels extremely fast and over long distances; • light carries energy and information; • light travels in straight lines; • light bounces and bends when it comes in contact with objects; • light has color; and
Oct 17, 2014 · Light. Light is electromagnetic radiation that has properties of waves. The electromagnetic spectrum can be divided into several bands based on the wavelength. As we have discussed before, visible light represents a narrow group of wavelengths between about 380 nm and 730 nm.
In this chapter, we study the basic properties of light. In the next few chapters, we investigate the behavior of light when it interacts with optical devices such as mirrors, lenses, and apertures.
Light and Optics: We just learned that light is a wave (an "electromagnetic wave", with very small wavelength). But in many cases, you can safely ignore the wave nature of light! Light was studied for a long time (obviously), long before Maxwell, and very well understood. People thought about light as sort of like a
People also ask
What is the nature of light?
How can a particle model explain the properties of light?
What are some important facts about light?
Is light a wave or a ray?
How does light interact with matter?
Is light a wave?
(i) Sources of Light: Light is emitted by hot bodies; moreover, intense light also feels hot (we would now say that it carries energy, which heats any object absorbing this energy). Light rays vary enormously in their intensity.
