Question

Ingrid says that a red ball of clay appears red because the clay reflects red wavelengths. Simon says that the clay appears red because it allows red wavelengths to pass through it.

Which statement best explains who is correct?

Ingrid is correct. The clay appears red because it reflects red wavelengths.
Ingrid is correct. The clay appears red because it is a type of matter.
Simon is correct. The clay appears red because it allows red wavelengths to pass through it.
Simon is correct. The clay appears red because it is a solid.

Answer 1

Ingrid is correct. The clay appears red because it reflects red wavelengths (and absorbs other colors), whereas transmission of light applies to transparent or translucent materials, not opaque clay.