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What is the term for reflection of a light wave from and uneven surface?
The term for reflection of a light wave from an uneven surface is called diffuse reflection. Instead of reflecting at a specific angle like specular reflection (from a smooth surface), light scatters in many directions during diffuse reflection due to the surface's irregularities.
How reflection is affected by the roughness of a surface?
The roughness of a surface affects reflection by scattering light in different directions. A rough surface will produce diffuse reflection, where light rays are scattered randomly, resulting in a dull appearance. In contrast, a smooth surface will produce specular reflection, where light rays are reflected at the same angle, resulting in a clear and mirror-like reflection.
Can you see a reflection in a dull surface?
It's unlikely to see a clear reflection in a dull surface since it lacks the smoothness needed to reflect light. Instead, the light hitting a dull surface scatters in various directions, resulting in a diffused and distorted reflection.
When light waves hit a rough surface they create what type of reflection?
When light waves hit a rough surface, they create diffuse reflection, where the light is reflected in many different directions rather than a single coherent angle. This is why rough surfaces appear matte or dull compared to smooth surfaces which exhibit specular reflection.
Why must a material be smooth and shiny for you to see an image of yourself?
A smooth and shiny material reflects light rays in a way that creates a clear image. When the surface is rough or dull, light rays scatter in different directions, preventing a clear reflection that forms an image. The smoothness allows the light to bounce off the surface in a uniform manner, creating a clear reflection.
