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Reflection of Waves

Waves and Optics

Reflection of Waves

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

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What you will learn

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What reflection means for a wave

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How to draw the normal at a boundary

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How to apply the law of reflection

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Why waves can be absorbed or transmitted

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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.

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