Definition of Reflection
The phenomenon of bouncing back of light when it strikes a surface.
What is Definition of Reflection?
The phenomenon of bouncing back of light into the same medium when it strikes a surface.
Key points
- Define reflection accurately.
- Identify the incident ray, reflected ray, and normal.
- Understand that reflection occurs when light hits a surface and bounces back.
Common exam trap
Confusing reflection with refraction (bending of light as it passes through different media).
Definitions
- Term
Reflection
- Meaning
The phenomenon of bouncing back of light into the same medium when it strikes a surface.
- Term
Incident Ray
- Meaning
The ray of light that strikes the reflecting surface.
- Term
Reflected Ray
- Meaning
The ray of light that bounces back from the reflecting surface.
- Term
Normal
- Meaning
A line perpendicular to the reflecting surface at the point where the incident ray strikes.
- Term
Angle of Incidence (i)
- Meaning
The angle between the incident ray and the normal.
- Term
Angle of Reflection (r)
- Meaning
The angle between the reflected ray and the normal.
Learning objectives
Define reflection accurately.
Identify the incident ray, reflected ray, and normal.
Understand that reflection occurs when light hits a surface and bounces back.
Prerequisites
Basic understanding of light as a form of energy.
Concept of a straight line and perpendicular lines (normal).
Common mistakes
Confusing reflection with refraction (bending of light as it passes through different media).
Incorrectly applying the laws of reflection, especially regarding angles.
Assuming light always passes through a surface.
Keywords
Reflection
Light
Bouncing back
Incident ray
Reflected ray
Normal
Angle of incidence
Angle of reflection
Laws of reflection
Mirror
Practice preview
Which of the following statements about the reflection of light is INCORRECT?…
medium
When light strikes a smooth, polished surface, what is the primary optical phenomenon observed?…
easy
A ray of light strikes a plane mirror. Which phenomenon occurs?…
medium