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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Reflection and Refraction?

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The difference between reflection and refraction lies in how light interacts with different media and surfaces. Here are the key differences:

  • Reflection: This occurs when light strikes a medium on a plane and bounces back, changing its direction. Reflection typically happens on mirrors or other shiny surfaces. In reflection, the light that enters the medium returns to the same medium, and the angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection.
  • Refraction: This is the process by which light shifts its path as it travels through a material, causing the light to bend. Refraction usually happens in lenses and occurs when light enters one medium from another. In refraction, the light that enters the medium travels from one medium to another, and the angle of reflection is not equal to the angle of incidence.

Some examples of reflection and refraction include:

  1. Mirrors (reflection)
  2. Shiny surfaces (reflection)
  3. Oil in a glass bottle (refraction)
  4. Lens (refraction)
  5. Foil (reflection)
  6. Prism (refraction)
  7. Glass of water with a spoon in it (refraction)
  8. Glass (refraction)
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  • What is the Difference Between Reflection and Refraction?
  • Comparative Table: Reflection vs Refraction

    • Comparative Table: Reflection vs Refraction

    Reflection and refraction are two different phenomena related to the propagation of light. Here is a table highlighting the key differences between them:

    Feature Reflection Refraction
    Description Bouncing back of light when it strikes a smooth surface. Bending of light when it passes from one medium to another.
    Angle Angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection. Angle of incidence is not equal to the angle of refraction.
    Types 1. Regular reflection: Occurs when light reflects off a smooth surface at the same angle as it is incident.
    2. Irregular reflection: Occurs when light reflects off a rough surface and scatters in different directions.    		 No specific types mentioned.
    Occurrence Occurs in mirrors. Occurs in lenses.
    Direction Light returns to its original medium. Light changes direction and may also change speed when entering a new medium.
    Speed & Wavelength No change in wavelength and speed. Wavelength and speed change.

    In summary, reflection involves the bouncing back of light when it strikes a smooth surface, while refraction is the bending of light when it passes from one medium to another. Reflection occurs in mirrors, whereas refraction occurs in lenses. The angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection for reflection, but not for refraction.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.