Waves and Optics
Reflection of Waves
To explain how waves reflect at a boundary and use the law of reflection to predict their direction.

What you will learn

What reflection means for a wave

How to draw the normal at a boundary

How to apply the law of reflection

Why waves can be absorbed or transmitted

How to predict the direction of reflected waves
Explanation
Reflection returns a wave from a boundary; transmission allows it to continue through, and absorption transfers energy to the material. For reflection from a straight boundary, incidence and reflection angles are equal when measured from the normal. A boundary may reflect, transmit and absorb different proportions of the incident energy. A reflected water wave transfers energy without carrying the water back from the barrier. Use clear labels. Avoid unjustified claims. Identify cause and effect.
