When the energy of a light wave is transferred to a particle and causes it to vibrate and generate heat, the energy of the light wave is..

A) absorbed
B) reflected
C) refracted
D) transmitted

D?

The energy of a light wave transferred to a particle and causing it to vibrate and generate heat is absorbed. To determine the correct answer, we need to understand the process involved.

When a light wave interacts with a particle, there are three possible outcomes: absorption, reflection, and transmission.

Absorption occurs when the light wave transfers its energy to the particle, causing it to vibrate and generate heat. In this case, the energy is absorbed by the particle and converted into thermal energy.

Reflection occurs when the light wave bounces off the surface of the particle without being absorbed. In this case, the energy of the light wave remains intact, and no heat is generated.

Transmission occurs when the light wave passes through the particle without being absorbed. Again, in this case, the energy of the light wave remains unaffected, and no heat is generated.

Therefore, in the given scenario, the correct answer is A) absorbed, as the energy of the light wave is transferred to the particle and generates heat.