Why is it that when things get wet they get darker, even though water's clear?

Answer 1

Most object have rough surfaces so we "see" the object by light from all directions that is reflected (diffuse reflection) in the direction of our eyes. When an objects is wet the water fills in the roughness so the light incident on it is reflected in only one direction like from a mirror or a piece of glass, so usually less light is reflected in the direction of our eyes so it looks darker. Objects that already have smooth shiny surfaces do not look darker when wet

Answer 2

The index of refraction changes the way the water reflects off the surface of the [wet] material because it has to pass thru the surface of the water TWICE --- to and from before it reaches your eyes. Some of the light is reflected and absorbed in this process thus changing the appearance of the surface of the object.

Answer 3

I think light itself is not totally reflected by water as by the thing you refer when it is dry. It is also possible that optical property slightly changes by the surface when it comes in contact with water. The change in appearance is more remarkable when water is absorbed (i.e it gets soaked) than when it is not absorbed. As an instance when cotton cloth is partly wet, the portion that is wet appears by contrast more dark than the portion that is not wet.

And finally , it is better something appears wet before we experience it. Otherwise you will get your pant wet by sitting in the garden chair after a previous night shower.

Answer 4

That is a very good question! I can't wait to see the answer!