Tyrel is learning about a certain kind of metal used to make satellites. He learns that infrared light is absorbed by the metal,

Question

3 months ago

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Tyrel is learning about a certain kind of metal used to make satellites. He learns that infrared light is absorbed by the metal,

X-ray light is transmitted through the metal, and visible light is reflected off the metal. Tyrel wonders of the metal will get warm if he shines the lights on it. Can light cause the metal to get warm?

Physics

1 answer:

Maru [3.3K] · Answer 1 · 2026-03-03T01:55:52+03:00

Answer: yes.

Explanation: The type of light striking the metal is visible light.

There are three factors involved:

1. The temperature

2. The specific heat of the metal

3. The thermal conductivity of the metal.

The increase in temperature of the metal is influenced by how light energy is absorbed and reflected; it will absorb some of the energy and won't reflect all of it.

When an object absorbs visible light, it transforms the short wavelength light into longer wavelength heat, leading to a temperature rise.