reflection Flashcards
1
Q
when a wave is absorbed…
A
its energy is absorbed into the material’s energy stores.
2
Q
when a wave is transmitted (enters the material and carries on traveling)…
A
it leads to refraction (waves changing direction as they pass from 1 medium to another).
3
Q
when a wave is reflected off the surface…
A
it never even enters the material.
4
Q
what happens to a wave when it enters a material depends on:
A
- wavelength
- properties of the 2 materials
5
Q
angle of incidence
A
= angle of reflection
6
Q
specular reflection (e.g. mirrors):
A
- results in a nice, clear image.
boundary is flat; normals are in the same direction.
7
Q
diffuse/specular reflection (e.g. paper):
A
boundary is bumpy; normals are different direction = light is reflected in different directions.
