Black versus white in heat transfer

The article describes a favorite experiment of the author, which explores the difference between black and white as it applies to radiant energy. It involves placing two quart metal cans of asphalt in an oven. One can is sprayed black, while the other retains its shiny surface. The time taken for each can to reach a target temperature is recorded, and a heating equation derived. The results show that the black sprayed can heats up considerably faster than the shiny one.