Angle of reflection

Definition

The angle of reflection refers to the angle formed between an outgoing ray or reflected wave and a line perpendicular to a reflecting surface. It represents how light bounces off or reflects from a surface.

Analogy

Think about standing in front of a mirror and looking at your reflection. The way you see yourself in relation to your position and distance from the mirror forms an angle, just like how light reflects off surfaces at specific angles.

Related terms

Angle of incidence: The angle of incidence is equal to the angle formed by an incoming ray before it hits a reflecting surface.

Law of Reflection: The law states that when light reflects off a smooth surface, such as glass or water, it follows specific rules - namely, that 'the incident ray, reflected ray, and normal all lie on one plane, and the angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection.'

Reflecting surface: A reflecting surface is any smooth surface that can bounce back or reflect light, such as a mirror or polished metal.