Which of the following explains why air is not visible?a)It is nearly ...
An object is visible, when it either absorbs light or reflects light. Air is not visible because it neither absorbs nor reflects light.
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Which of the following explains why air is not visible?a)It is nearly ...
Why is Air Not Visible?
Air is an essential component of our atmosphere, yet it remains invisible to the naked eye. The correct answer to why this is the case is option 'B', which encompasses multiple reasons:
1. Nearly Perfectly Transparent Substance
- Air is composed primarily of nitrogen (78%) and oxygen (21%) along with a small percentage of other gases.
- It does not have any color, taste, or smell, making it nearly transparent.
2. Transmission of Light
- Air allows light to pass through it without significant obstruction.
- Since light travels through air without being absorbed or scattered, we do not see the air itself.
3. Absence of Absorption and Reflection
- Air does not absorb visible light; therefore, it does not convert light into heat.
- It also does not reflect light in a way that would make it visible, which is why we perceive clear skies as blue but not the air itself.
Conclusion
- All these factors combined explain why air is not visible to us.
- Hence, the option 'B' is correct as it acknowledges a comprehensive understanding of the properties of air concerning light.
By recognizing these properties, we can better understand the nature of air and its role in our environment.