Why Black Objects Absorb More Heat Than White Objects

Black objects absorb more heat because they take in all wavelengths of visible light instead of reflecting them.
White objects reflect most of the incoming light, keeping them cooler in sunlight.
Light energy absorbed by black surfaces turns into heat, raising their temperature.
That’s why black clothing feels hotter than white on a sunny day.
Snow appears white because it reflects most light, staying cooler on its surface.
A black car heats up faster in the sun compared to a white car parked nearby.
The effect is strongest under direct sunlight, where visible light dominates.
Shiny or reflective white surfaces also reduce heat by bouncing radiation away.
Black surfaces radiate heat well too, but not as fast as they absorb it in the sun.
Designers use this principle: white roofs help keep buildings cool, while dark panels maximize solar heating.