Back
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

reflection

Primary Information
Secondary Information

Definition

Reflection is the change in direction of a wavefront at an interface between two different media so that the wavefront returns to the medium from which it originated.

In the case of light, reflection occurs when light hits a surface that does not absorb all of the light. The light that is not absorbed is reflected back into the same medium from which it came. The angle of reflection is equal to the angle of incidence.

Reflection is a very important phenomenon in physics and engineering. It is used in mirrors, lenses, telescopes, and many other optical devices. It is also used in radar, sonar, and other systems that use reflected waves to detect objects.

How can the word be used?

The scientist reflected on the results of the experiment.

reflection

Different forms of the word

Noun:

  • the image of an object formed by rays of light or other waves being reflected.
  • the act of reflecting or considering something carefully.
  • a thought or opinion that is formed as a result of thinking about something.

Adjective:

  • of or relating to reflection.

Etymology

The word "reflection" comes from the Latin word "reflectere", which means "to bend back".

The first recorded use of the word "reflection" in English was in the 14th century.

Question

What happens when light is reflected?

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question:

Describe the process of reflection of light and provide an example of how it occurs in daily life.

Answer:

The process of reflection of light involves the bouncing back of light rays when they encounter a surface. When light strikes a reflective surface, such as a mirror or water, it obeys the law of reflection, which states that the angle of incidence (the angle between the incoming light ray and the normal to the surface) is equal to the angle of reflection (the angle between the reflected light ray and the normal).

An example of reflection in daily life is how we see ourselves in a mirror. When light from our face strikes the mirror, it follows the law of reflection, bouncing off at the same angle at which it hit. This process allows the reflected light to reach our eyes, enabling us to see an image of ourselves.

Reflection is a fundamental phenomenon used in various technologies, such as optical instruments like telescopes and cameras. It also has applications in communication, like fibre-optic cables that transmit light signals through multiple internal reflections. Understanding the principles of reflection helps explain how we perceive the world around us and forms the basis for numerous optical devices and technologies.