Absorbing Heat Radiation

If an object is colder than its surroundings then it will absorb heat radiation.

Some surface are better than others at absorbing heat radiation. When heat radiation falls on them they get hot.

Other surfaces are poor absorbers. When heat radiation falls on them it is reflected, as in the photo above.

Here are some examples

This solar water heater is black. Why?	You shouldn't wear a black T shirt on a hot sunny day.	Houses in hot sunny countries tend to be white.	The back of this electric fire is silvery to reflect heat back into the room.