Reflection

• What are the two types of reflection discussed?

  Specular and diffuse reflection
• What happens when a wave arrives at a boundary?

  It can be absorbed, transmitted, or reflected
• What occurs when a wave is absorbed by a material?

  Energy is transferred to the material's energy stores
• What does it mean for a wave to be transmitted?

  The wave enters the material and continues traveling
• What is the relationship between wavelength and reflection?

  The wavelength affects how waves interact with materials
• What is the rule for drawing ray diagrams regarding angles?

  The angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection
• How do you start drawing a ray diagram?

  Begin with the boundary between two materials
• What does the normal line represent in a ray diagram?

  A dashed line perpendicular to the surface
• How do you measure the angle of incidence in a ray diagram?

  Measure the angle between the incoming ray and the normal
• What is the point where the incoming ray touches the boundary called?

  Point of incidence
• What type of reflection occurs with smooth surfaces like mirrors?

  Specular reflection
• Why do rough surfaces like paper cause diffuse reflection?

  The normals point in different directions
• What is the visual result of specular reflection?

  A clear image, like in a mirror
• Why can't you see your reflection in paper?

  Because of diffuse reflection from its rough surface
• What happens to reflected rays on a rough surface?

  They get scattered in different directions
• How does the angle of incidence relate to the angle of reflection in both types of reflection?

  It is always equal in both types
• What are the three possible outcomes when a wave hits a boundary?

  • Absorption: Energy transferred to the material
  • Transmission: Wave enters and continues traveling
  • Reflection: Wave bounces off the surface
• How do you draw a ray diagram for reflection?

  1. Draw the boundary between materials
  2. Add the incoming ray with an arrow
  3. Draw the normal line perpendicular to the surface
  4. Measure the angle of incidence
  5. Draw the reflected ray at the same angle
  6. Mark the point of incidence
• What distinguishes specular reflection from diffuse reflection?

  Specular Reflection:

  • Smooth surface
  • Clear image produced

  
  

  Diffuse Reflection:

  • Rough surface
  • Scattered light, no clear image