Why do objects appear black when they absorb most light?

Color depends on which wavelengths of visible light an object reflects or emits. If a surface absorbs nearly all visible wavelengths instead of reflecting them, almost no light reaches your eyes and the object appears black. Many black materials warm up faster in sunlight because the absorbed energy becomes thermal energy. This is why black clothing can feel hotter outdoors than lighter colors. Some specially engineered materials absorb nearly all incoming light and are used in scientific instruments and light traps.