The Chemistry of Light: How Photons Interact With Matter

Photons are tiny packets of light energy that interact with atoms and molecules.
When photons hit matter, they can be absorbed, reflected, or transmitted.
Absorption excites electrons, pushing them to higher energy levels.
When excited electrons fall back down, they release energy as light or heat.
The colors we see come from specific photons absorbed or emitted by different elements.
Chlorophyll absorbs photons of red and blue light, powering photosynthesis.
Sunscreens work by absorbing harmful UV photons before they reach your skin.
Photons can knock electrons free, creating the photoelectric effect that powers solar panels.
Spectroscopy uses photon interactions to identify substances by their light “fingerprints.”
From glowing neon signs to stars in the night sky, photons drive the chemistry of light.