Are the lights on in the room when you do this? If so, have you tried it in
a completely dark room?
-----Original Message-----
From: phys-l-bounces@carnot.physics.buffalo.edu
[mailto:phys-l-bounces@carnot.physics.buffalo.edu] On Behalf Of Tony
Sent: Friday, July 16, 2010 12:03 PM
To: Address Phys-L Send To
Subject: [Phys-l] Light mystery
When I take a green laser pointer and aim it at a white paper I get a green
dot and green diffuse reflection on the white wall. When I take the same
green laser pointer and point it at fluorescent orange and/or fluorescent
pink paper, I get a yellow spot on the paper and I still get green diffuse
reflection. I'm guessing that I'm getting some excitation similar to when it
is lit by UV light. But I don't see why I'm getting the green reflection.
Can someone verify if my excitation idea is on track and explain the why I
get the green reflection? It is as simple as the source is green and some
light is absorbed while non-absorbed photons are reflected?
Thanks in advance.
-Tony
--
Tony Wayne
Albemarle High School
Physics Teacher
Science Department Chair
twayne@k12albemarle.org http://www.mrwaynesclass.com
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Those who can do.
Those who understand, teach.