Thermochromic materials change colour in response to changes in which factor?

• A. They respond to light levels
• B. They respond to changes in temperature
• C. They conduct electricity
• D. They are magnetic

Answer: (B)

Thermochromic behavior is about color changing with temperature. When temperature changes, the arrangement or phase of the material’s molecules shifts, which alters how it absorbs and reflects light. That change in light interaction shows up as a different color, often at a specific transition temperature, making these materials useful as temperature indicators or decorative items like mood rings.

Other factors aren’t what drives this color change: light levels cause color shifts in photochromic materials, while conductivity or magnetism aren’t the typical mechanisms behind thermochromism.