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Grades K–2 · Systems

How does an object make a shadow?

A shadow forms when an object blocks light. In the picture, a lamp shines toward a screen. A card stands between them and stops some lamp light from reaching the screen.

S16 visual explanationThe lamp is on. An opaque card blocks light and is in the path toward the screen. A dark shadow appears on the screen behind the card. Other room lights and faint reflections from a real clear sheet are left out.What makes a shadow?ScreenLampCardLightShadow behind cardThe card blocks part of the light path.

In the diagramWhat makes a shadow?ScreenLampCardLightShadow behind cardThe card blocks part of the light path.

The card blocks lamp light on its way to the screen. A dark shadow forms behind the card.

The place behind the card gets less light. That darker place is the card's shadow. Moving the card out of the way lets lamp light reach that part of the screen again.

A clear sheet lets light pass through in this simple picture. With the lamp off, there is no lamp light on the screen, but that is not a separate card-shaped shadow.

About this explanation

Starting knowledge: Recognize a light source, an object and a surface.

Sources

  • Next Generation Science Standards — 1-PS4-3 — materials in the path of light
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