Topic 4 - Waves - Reflection

Question 1

What happens to waves when they encounter a flat surface?

Answer 1

Waves will reflect off a flat surface

This principle is fundamental in optics and physics.

Question 2

How does the smoothness of a surface affect wave reflection?

Answer 2

The smoother the surface, the stronger the reflected wave is

Smooth surfaces allow for clearer reflection of waves.

Question 3

What effect do rough surfaces have on light?

Answer 3

Rough surfaces scatter the light in all directions, so appear matt and not reflective

This scattering causes a lack of clear reflection.

Question 4

What is the relationship between the angle of incidence and the angle of reflection?

Answer 4

The angle of incidence = angle of reflection

This is known as the law of reflection.

Question 5

Under what condition will light reflect off an object?

Answer 5

Light will reflect if the object is opaque and is not absorbed by the material

Opaque materials do not allow light to pass through.

Question 6

What happens to light energy when it is absorbed by electrons in a material?

Answer 6

The electrons will absorb the light energy, then reemit it as a reflected wave

This process involves energy transformation and emission.