Which outcome occurs when light is absorbed by an object and its energy becomes heat?

Which outcome occurs when light is absorbed by an object and its energy becomes heat?

• A. Reflected
• B. Absorbed
• C. Transmitted
• D. Refracted

Answer: (B)

When light hits something, it can do a few different things. If the energy from the light is taken in by the object, that energy increases the motion of the object's molecules, and you feel it as warmth—the object gets hotter. That is what happens when light energy becomes heat: the light is absorbed. So the outcome described is absorption, with the energy being converted into heat. If light is reflected, it bounces off. If it’s transmitted, it goes through the object. If it’s refracted, it bends as it enters a new material. None of those describe turning light energy into heat in the same direct way as absorption does.

When light hits something, it can do a few different things. If the energy from the light is taken in by the object, that energy increases the motion of the object's molecules, and you feel it as warmth—the object gets hotter. That is what happens when light energy becomes heat: the light is absorbed.

So the outcome described is absorption, with the energy being converted into heat. If light is reflected, it bounces off. If it’s transmitted, it goes through the object. If it’s refracted, it bends as it enters a new material. None of those describe turning light energy into heat in the same direct way as absorption does.