Absorbing and reflecting radiation

Radiation falling on a surface is partly absorbed and partly reflected. How much of each depends on how rough or polished the surface is, and on its colour.

Good absorbers

Dark and rough surfaces absorb more radiation.

Black surfaces absorb the most and reflect the least.

Good reflectors

Shiny and white surfaces reflect radiation most.

Assignment 9.2

Plan an experiment to find out whether black, white or shiny surfaces absorb radiation best. Write the conclusions your observations support.