Which best defines transparent and provides an example of a material that is transparent to light?

A.

the ability to absorb light; for example, the leaf of a plant

B.

the ability to transmit light; for example, water

C.

the ability to reflect light; for example, gold

D.

the ability to refract light; for example, the diamond in a ring

Answer: option B. The ability to transmit light; for example water. The transparency is due to the pass of the light. The pass of light is what is called transmission of light. Light may be reflected, refracted or transmitted. Remember light is combination of several waves with different frequencies. When light falls upon an object the interaction may be some frequencies are reflected and other transmitted. Transparent objects are those that permit tha pass of (transmit) most light waves and so let the eyes and instruments to see through them.