Which of the following materials is most likely to reach the highest temperature when placed in direct sunlight for the same amount of time?

• A. A black metal plate
• B. A silver aluminum foil
• C. A clear glass pane
• D. A white plastic sheet

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the temperature a material reaches in sunlight depends on how much solar energy it absorbs versus how much it reflects or transmits.
2. Recall that black surfaces absorb most of the visible light and convert it into heat, while white or reflective surfaces reflect most of the light, absorbing less energy.
3. Consider that metals like silver aluminum foil are highly reflective, so they absorb less sunlight and heat up less compared to black surfaces.
4. Recognize that clear glass allows light to pass through rather than absorbing it, so it does not heat up as much as an opaque black surface.
5. Conclude that among the options, the black metal plate absorbs the most sunlight and converts it into heat, making it most likely to reach the highest temperature.