What colour is a mirror?
The colour of an object is dictated by the wavelengths of light that are reflected off the object's surface atoms. So, what does a mirror reflect back?
Asked by: Kate Watts, by email
In white light, which includes the wavelengths of the visible spectrum, the colour of an object is dictated by those wavelengths of light that its surface atoms fail to mop up. As a perfect mirror reflects back all the colours comprising white light, it’s also white.
That said, real mirrors aren’t perfect, and their surface atoms give any reflection a very slight green tinge, as the atoms in the glass reflect back green light more strongly than any other colour.
Read more:
- Why do mirrors reverse left and right, not up and down?
- Do two mirrors facing each other produce infinite reflections?
- The best smart mirrors to buy for your home
Subscribe to BBC Focus magazine for fascinating new Q&As every month and follow @sciencefocusQA on Twitter for your daily dose of fun science facts.
Authors
Robert is a science writer and visiting professor of science at Aston University.
Sponsored Deals
Spring Savings!
- Try your first 6 issues for just £9.99 when you subscribe to BBC Science Focus Magazine.
- Risk - free offer! Cancel at any time when you subscribe via Direct Debit.
- FREE UK delivery.
- Stay up to date with the latest developments in the worlds of science and technology.
