Here's why:

* Transparent: Allows light to pass through it with minimal scattering or absorption. You can see clearly through transparent materials (e.g., glass, water, air).

* Translucent: Allows some light to pass through but scatters it, making it difficult to see clearly through (e.g., frosted glass, thin paper).

* Opaque: Does not allow any light to pass through (e.g., wood, metal, brick).