AQA GCSE Transparent, Translucent and Opaque(Physics)

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Transparent

A transparent material can transmit light all the way through the material. 

Examples of transparent materials include: Air, water, Quartz crystal and glass

In the diagram below, the sheet of glass is acting as a transparent material, it allows the light ray from the torch to pass directly through the glass.

Glass acting as a transparent material with a beam of light from a torch passing directly through the glass

Translucent

A translucent material will allow some light to pass through the object, but the light is scattered or refracted as it passes through the material.

Examples of translucent materials include frosted glass, wax paper, tracing paper.

Below is an image showing what happens to light rays when they try to pass through a translucent material.

Incident light rays passing through a translucent material being scattered and refracted by the material

Opaque

Opaque objects do not allow light to pass through them

Examples: Brick, concrete, wood.

In the diagram below an incident light ray is striking an opaque object (concrete). No light is transmitted. 

In this case, no light is reflected either. However, some opaque objects can also reflect light.

Incident light striking an opaque object such as concrete. No light being transmitted

Practice Question

1.Describe the following terms

a.Transparent

b.Translucent

c.Opaque

2. Explain how frosted glass windows prevent a person from seeing clearly through the glass.

3. Would colourless jelly be classed as transparent, translucent or opaque?

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