The law of reflection states that when a wave, such as light, hits a surface, the angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection. This principle is fundamental in understanding how mirrors work and is applicable to various types of waves, including sound and water waves.

Law Of Reflection

law of reflection

The angle of incidence is the angle between an incoming wave or ray and the perpendicular to the surface it encounters. It plays a crucial role in determining how waves, such as light or sound, are reflected or refracted at interfaces between different media.

angle of incidence

The angle of reflection is the angle formed between the reflected ray and the normal to the surface at the point of incidence, and it is always equal to the angle of incidence according to the law of reflection. This principle is fundamental in optics and is crucial for understanding how light behaves when it encounters reflective surfaces.

angle of reflection

Principle Of Reflection

understanding how mirrors work

types of waves

Light waves are electromagnetic waves that are visible to the human eye and are responsible for the perception of color. They exhibit behaviors such as reflection, refraction, diffraction, and interference, which are fundamental to understanding optics and various technological applications.

Light Waves

Sound waves are longitudinal waves that travel through a medium by compressing and rarefying particles, allowing us to perceive sound. They are characterized by properties such as frequency, wavelength, amplitude, and speed, which determine the pitch, loudness, and timbre of the sound we hear.

Your Courses

Relevant Degrees

Your Lessons