[ELI5] How can a black-colored surface be reflective/glossy?

Question

The “color” black arises because a surface absorbs most wavelengths of visible light.
So then, how are some black surfaces highly reflective and/or glossy? E.g. sunlight reflecting off of a black car

In: Physics

Answer 1

When light hits a surface, parts of it bounces off (reflected). The remainder goes through (transmitted) or gets absorbed.

Black colored objects absorb most of the visible wavelengths of light that don’t get reflected. The portion that does get reflected can produce a glossy finish if the surface is very smooth or polished. You can sometimes purposely add a glossy finish by applying a separate coating layer. This top coat increases the reflection before the light hits the black paint to be absorbed.