Final answer:
White objects reflect all colors of light while black objects absorb all colors of light. The appearance of color in objects depends on which wavelengths are absorbed and reflected.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer to the student's question is: a) Reflect; absorb. White objects reflect all colors of light, which is why they appear white since white light is a combination of all visible wavelengths. On the other hand, black objects absorb all colors of light, which is why they appear black, indicating the absence of light. This concept is derived from the absorption characteristics of objects, where the true color is determined by which wavelengths of light are absorbed and which are reflected.
Reflection and absorption play a significant role in everyday observations. For example, wearing black clothing in hot climates is commonly avoided because black absorbs light and heat more effectively—a fact that can make black objects or clothing feel hotter in the sun. Conversely, white objects and clothing reflect nearly all radiation, keeping them cooler as they absorb less light and heat.