Light Absorption, Reflection, and Transmission

Mr. Anderson's AP Physics video explores light behavior, focusing on absorption, reflection, and transmission. Using a green laser and gummy bears, he demonstrates how light interacts with different mediums. Reflection occurs when light bounces off surfaces, while absorption converts light into energy, often heat. Transmission allows light to pass through a medium. The video also explains how different wavelengths affect object colors and includes a gummy bear experiment to illustrate these concepts.

What happens to light when it moves from one medium to another?

• It can only be absorbed.

• It can be absorbed, reflected, or transmitted.

• It can only be transmitted.

• It can only be reflected.

When light reflects off a surface, what is the relationship between the angle of incidence and the angle of reflection?

• The angle of incidence is always greater.

• The angle of reflection is always greater.

• They are equal.

• They are unrelated.

What color of light is reflected from a green leaf?

• Green

• Red

• Yellow

• Blue

Which pigments in leaves are responsible for absorbing bluish and purplish light?

• Xanthophylls

• Anthocyanins

• Carotenoids

• Chlorophyll A and B

Why do some plants have a reddish or bluish layer on the underside of their leaves?

• To reflect light back through the leaf for more energy absorption.

• To attract pollinators.

• To protect against herbivores.

• To store water.