Light is an electromagnetic wave, meaning an electric field and magnetic field travel together, oscillating at specific frequency. All metals are electrical conductors and all metals are also opaque to light. Why might this be, knowing the nature of light waves?
A) The electric field of the wave excites electrons, which move through the solid conductor and dissipate the electric field, stopping the light wave.
B) The metal atoms absorb the light into their nucleus.
C) The free electrons in the metal capture the light.
D) The magnetic field polarizes iron, so all metals have a similar property, so when the magnetic field interacts with atoms, it dissipates the wave.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The electric field of the light wave excites electrons in the metal conductor, causing them to move and dissipate the electric field energy. This dissipation stops the light wave from passing through the metal, making metals opaque to light.

Light Is an Electromagnetic Wave, Meaning an Electric Field and Magnetic