What is Reflection?
Reflection is the phenomenon in which light bounces off a surface instead of passing through it. This allows us to see objects around us, including ourselves in mirrors.
Law of Reflection
The law of reflection states that:
- The incident ray, the reflected ray, and the normal all lie in the same plane.
- The angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection.
Key Characteristics
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Angle of Incidence | Angle between incident ray and normal |
| Angle of Reflection | Angle between reflected ray and normal |
| Types of Reflection | Regular (smooth surface) and Diffuse (rough surface) |
| Medium | Remains the same during reflection |
Uses of Reflection
| Application | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Plane Mirrors | Used in homes and vehicles to see reflected images |
| Periscopes | Allow people to see over or around obstacles |
| Rear-view Mirrors | Provide a wider view of traffic behind |
| Optical Instruments | Telescopes and microscopes use reflection for focusing light |