Reflection

• Reflection can be specular or diffuse
• Specular reflection happens when a wave is reflected in a single direction by a smooth surface.
• In specular reflection the angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection.
• Diffuse reflection is when a wave is reflected by a rough surface (e.g. a piece of paper).
• In diffuse reflection the rays are scattered in lots of different directions.
• When light is reflected by a rough surface, the surface appears matte (not shiny) and you don't get a clear reflection of objects
• Angle of incidence is the angle between incoming wave and the normal (line at right angles to the surface).
• Angle of reflection is the angle between reflected wave and the normal (line at right angles to the surface)