How do Hot Wheels color shifter cars change color?

Hot Wheels color shifter cars change color through a process called thermochromism, which involves a change in color in response to temperature. These cars are coated with a special type of paint that contains thermochromic pigments or dyes. These pigments undergo a chemical change when exposed to different temperatures, causing them to reflect different wavelengths of light and thus appear to change color.

When a Hot Wheels color shifter car is exposed to a lower temperature, the thermochromic pigments in the paint absorb more light, typically resulting in a darker or different color. As the temperature increases, the pigments gradually release the absorbed light, causing the car to change to a lighter or different color. The specific colors and temperature ranges at which the color change occurs can vary depending on the type of thermochromic pigments used in the paint.

Here's a simplified explanation of the process:

1. At lower temperatures: The thermochromic pigments in the paint absorb a significant amount of visible light. This absorption gives the car a darker or different appearance.

2. As the temperature rises: The thermochromic pigments become less efficient at absorbing light. They start releasing the previously absorbed light, leading to a change in the reflected color.

3. At higher temperatures: More of the visible light is reflected by the pigments, resulting in a different or brighter color.

The temperature at which the color change occurs can be influenced by several factors, such as the specific thermochromic pigments used, the thickness and composition of the paint, and the surrounding environment. Some Hot Wheels color shifter cars may change color when exposed to sunlight or warm water, while others may require a more controlled temperature change to display their color-shifting effect.