What does a white object do with colours of light?

Study for the Key Stage 3 (KS3) Physics Test. Engage with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each offering hints and explanations. Prepare to ace your exam!

A white object reflects all colours of light that fall upon it. This is because the surface of a white object is able to scatter and bounce back the full spectrum of visible light, which includes red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet. When all of these colours are reflected equally, our eyes perceive the object as white.

In contrast, an object that absorbs all colours would appear black to the human eye, while an object that reflects only certain colours would show specific hues corresponding to the colours it reflects. Therefore, the defining characteristic of a white object is its ability to reflect all wavelengths of visible light, making it look white.

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