Physics: Reflection and Laws of Reflection

Physics: Reflection and Laws of Reflection

Physics: Reflection and Laws of Reflection 150 150 SchoolTutoring Academy

Reflection may be defined as change in direction of wave at an interface between two media so that the wave bounces back in the same media from which it originated. Light, sound and water waves show the phenomenon of reflection. The refection of visible light allows us to see the objects from which it is reflected. The reflection of microwaves is useful for radar scanners. The reflection of sound waves in a theater or concert hall enlivens an onstage production.

The figure below shows the reflection.

The incoming ray is called the incident ray. The angle of incident (i) and the angle of reflection (r) are measure with respect to an imaginary line called normal which is at 90° to its surface. The angle between the incident ray and the normal is called the angle of incident (i) and the angle formed between the reflected ray and the normal is called the angle of reflection (r).

Laws of reflection

The laws of reflection are as follows:

Law 1: The incident ray, the reflected ray and the normal to the reflection surface at the point of the incidence lie in the same plane.

Law 2: The angle is incident is equal to the angle of reflection.

                                          i = r

Law 3: The incident ray and the reflected ray are on the opposite sides of the normal.

SchoolTutoring Academy is the premier educational services company for K-12 and college students. We offer tutoring programs for students in K-12, AP classes, and college including, tutoring in physics. To learn more about how we help parents and students in Courtenay visit: Tutoring in Courtenay.