5
Transparent or opaque
Words to learn: transparent • translucent • opaque • light
Some materials let light through clearly; others block it. That difference changes what we can make from them.
WHAT IS THE PROPERTY?
Transparent materials let us see clearly through them. Opaque materials block light. Translucent materials let some light through but scatter it.
HOW CAN WE TEST IT?
Hold each sample in front of the same object or light source and compare how clearly it can be seen.
WHY DOES IT MATTER?
Windows need transparency, walls need opacity, and lampshades may be translucent so that they spread light.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
NOW LOOK AT THE TEXTBOOK
OPEN THE BOOK