When a beam of light falls on an object, several things can happen depending on the characteristics of the object and the light. Here are some possible outcomes:
Absorption: If the object absorbs the light, it will convert some or all of the light energy into another form, such as heat. The absorbed light is no longer visible, and the object appears darker or duller.
Reflection: If the object reflects the light, it bounces back off the surface of the object. The light may be reflected in a specific direction, such as when a mirror reflects light, or it may be reflected in a diffuse pattern, such as when a matte surface reflects light.
Transmission: If the object is transparent or translucent, it will allow some or all of the light to pass through it. The light may be scattered as it passes through the object, or it may be transmitted in a straight line, depending on the properties of the object.
Fluorescence: Some objects, such as certain minerals and some types of paint, will absorb light at one wavelength and then emit it at a different wavelength. This process is called fluorescence. The object will appear to glow or emit light when it is exposed to light of the right wavelength.
Refraction: When light passes through a transparent object, it may be bent or refracted as it passes through different layers or regions with different refractive indices. This can cause the light to change direction or to appear to be coming from a different direction.
Dispersion: When light passes through a transparent object, it may be separated into its different wavelengths, resulting in the dispersion of light into its component colors. This can be seen in a rainbow or when white light is passed through a prism.