Book 11, Question 5
Why Do Polar Bears Look White If Their Skin Is Black?
A polar bear looks white because its hairs scatter light, not because they are white! Each hair is clear and has no color of its own. Under all that fur, the bear's skin is black.
More fun facts
- A polar bear's skin is black.
- Polar bear fur is actually clear, because the hairs have no color pigment.
- Black skin helps polar bears soak in the sun's warming rays.
- Polar bear hairs are hollow and help carry the sun's infrared light toward the skin.
- Scientists have made a warm fabric that copies polar bear fur and skin.
Sources: U.S. Geological Survey, National Geographic, Science News Explores
Questions kids ask
Is polar bear fur really white?
No. Each hair is clear because it has no pigment.