Question

Which of the following has the largest absorption coefficient?
A) Heavy curtain
B) Cork
C) Marble
D) Open window

Answer 1

As we know that heat or light that encounters a body can either be reflected, transmitted or absorbed. Absorbed heat is that amount which directly goes inside the body but never comes out. So, the absorption coefficient of any substance or body is basically the ratio of heat absorbed to the heat incident on the body.

Complete answer
As we know that heat or light that encounters a body can either be reflected, transmitted or absorbed. Absorbed heat is that amount which directly goes inside the body but never comes out. So when a body is taken in the heat energy, it changes it into another form and we can easily calculate its absorption coefficient which is basically defined as the coefficient of any substance or body is basically the ratio of heat absorbed to the heat incident on the body.

Let us discuss the given options now.

As the heavy curtains will provide a resistance to the absorption of heat due to its thickness so they will not have the largest absorption coefficient.
Next is cork which is basically an impermeable material made of dead tissues so it has no capacity to absorb the heat or light. Hence it is also incorrect.
Then the marble which is again not the absorbent is incorrect.
Lastly the open window which can allow the heat or light energy to enter and results into complete absorption. Thus it is a good absorber and has the largest absorption coefficient.

Therefore, the correct answer is option (D).

Note: Open windows and open doors are considered as good absorbers of heat and light and completely absorbs the light entering into any place, therefore the absorption coefficient of the open windows and open doors are considered as unity.