ELI5: Why does paint fade from sun exposure, and why do some fade faster than others?

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ELI5: Why does paint fade from sun exposure, and why do some fade faster than others?

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  1. zachtheperson Avatar

    The color of paint is caused by “pigments.”

    Pigments are just different molecules that reflect different colors of light, therefore different colors and/or brands use different molecules in different paints.

    UV rays, heat, and normal light can break down certain molecules, which includes some of the molecules used as pigments, so when the pigment molecules giving the paint the color break down, the paint fades. Depending on the specific pigment, some might be more susceptible than others.

  2. what_the_fuckin_fuck Avatar

    On that same subject, why are the UV rated plastics the black ones, and non UV resistant white? Seems like it should be the other way.