Cracked window pane?

Question

Why does a cracked window pane aappear silvery? My exam tomorrow depends on it........

Answer 1

It's called total internal reflection.

It happens when light goes from a medium with a relatively higher index of refraction (glass in this case) to one with a lower index (air).

It's the same principle that makes optical fibers work.

Answer 2

Fred S is correct. When the window cracked, the two pieces of glass have a thin layer of air between them.