Types of Light

1. Types of Light Transparent Translucent Opaque

2. In this activity you will: • Observe that light passes through some materials easily,some materials partially, and some not at all. • Classify materials according to the way light passes through them.

3. Materials and Light • There are three different types of materials that light will or will not pass through. • Transparent • Translucent • Opaque

4. Transparent Light • Materials that you can see through allow almost all of the light to pass through. • Light is allowed through with very little bending or scattering of the rays of light.

5. Examples of Transparent Materials • Clear glass • Clean water • Clear plastic

6. Question • Why is transparent tape called transparent tape?

7. Answer • You can see through it or light rays are allowed to pass through it. • I can completely see my leftovers wrapped in transparent plastic wrap.

8. Translucent Materials • Materials that allow only some light to pass through. • Objects allow light to pass through, but they scatter the rays so much that you cannot get a clear view of what is on the other side. • Examples of Translucent Materials • Thin fabrics • Frosted glass • Thin paper

9. Question • Why is wax paper translucent?

10. Answer • You can see some light, but you cannot see through it. I can barely see my leftovers wrapped in wax paper.

11. Opaque Materials Light cannot pass through these materials.

12. Examples of Opaque Materials • Brick • Metal • Thick paper • Aluminum Foil • Wood • Stones

13. Quick Facts about Opaque Materials • These objects will cast a shadow when lit up. • Brick, metal, and thick paper stop light completely. • This is why you cannot see your leftovers wrapped in aluminum foil!

14. Writing Activity • Write a paragraph that includes a definition and example of transparent , translucent and opaque light.