Fényelnyelése

Fényelnyelése is a Hungarian term that translates to "light swallowing" or "light absorption" in English. It refers to the phenomenon where a substance or object takes in light rather than reflecting or transmitting it. This process is fundamental to many aspects of physics and everyday experience.

When light interacts with matter, its energy can be absorbed by the electrons within the atoms or molecules of the substance. This absorption typically occurs when the energy of the incoming photons matches the energy difference between electron energy levels. The absorbed energy can then be converted into other forms, such as heat or be re-emitted as light of a different wavelength (fluorescence or phosphorescence).

The degree to which a material absorbs light is described by its absorptivity. Objects that appear black are excellent absorbers of visible light across the entire spectrum, reflecting very little. Conversely, transparent or translucent materials allow most light to pass through them, indicating low absorption. Fényelnyelése is a key principle in understanding the color of objects, the operation of solar cells, and the behavior of light in various optical instruments. It also plays a role in atmospheric science, where gases and particles absorb solar radiation, influencing Earth's temperature.