Question

Do molecules have colours? What about electrons, protons and neutrons?

Asked by: Peter

 Answer

Electrons, protons and neutrons do not have a 'color' as we normally understand the term. Something has a color when light strikes it and it absorbs all but one wavelenth (say, blue) and thus the object is perceived as being blue. (This is a simplified explanation but in essence that's it.)

A light wave (in the visible part of the spectrum) has too long of a wavelength to reflect off one of these particles, so not only can we not see them, but they don't exhibit a color. (We can't even see them thru a microscope because they simply don't reflect light. That's why we need electron microscopes to see very small things--and even these can't see subatomic particles)

As for molecules: it depends on how big the molecule is. If it's a salt molecule, NaCl, that's probably too small to reflect light. But if it's DNA or a polymer, then probably it will exhibit a color, assuming you have a powerful enough optical microscope..

Answered by: Marcelo Lima, B.S.

Search

Loading



Sponsors

USC University of Southern California Dornsife College Physics and Astronomy Department McMaster University Physics and Astronomy Department

Science Quote

'Nothing in this world is to be feared... only understood.'

Marie Curie
(1867-1934)

Deal of the Day

Image of Shark Tooth Fossil in Matrix. Click on this image for more info. Shark Tooth Fossil in Matrix
Regular Price: $39.95
Today's Price: $15.00
Superb shark fossil specimen for the science classroom! Buy it now! Deal ends at midnight!

Top Selling

Here are our physics & astronomy bestsellers:
Mini Plasma Ball
Slide Making Kit
Top Secret - Spinning Top
Wood Grain Newtons Cradle
Deluxe 3D Mirascope
Solar Radiometer
Periscope
Solar Science 4M Kit
Ultimate Chemistry Set CHEM C3000
3D Magnetic Field Tube