GCSE Physics (AQA)

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Diffuse & Specular Reflection

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Waves Electromagnetic waves

Diffuse & Specular Reflection

3:47 Colour and Visible Light
Spec 4.6.2.6
Previous Transparency & Translucency Next Reflection & Colour
  • Diffuse reflection occurs when light reflects off a rough surface in multiple directions.
  • Reflection is when a wave reaches a boundary and is sent back rather than crossing it or being absorbed.
  • Diffuse reflection typically refers to visible light waves.
  • A diffuse surface is bumpy and uneven, causing parallel rays to reflect in different directions.
  • According to the law of reflection, the angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection, but uneven surfaces cause different normals at each point, leading to unpredictable reflections.
  • Specular reflection occurs when parallel light rays reflect off a surface in the same direction.
  • Specular surfaces, like mirrors and polished metals, are perfectly flat, allowing parallel rays to stay parallel after reflection.
  • On a specular surface, a mirror image can be seen because reflected rays appear to originate from a point beyond the mirror.
  • On a diffuse surface, like a brick wall, only the surface itself is visible due to light reflecting in all directions.
  • Diffuse surfaces have bumps and imperfections, preventing image formation from reflected rays.
  • For exams, understand the differences between diffuse and specular reflection and identify which is demonstrated in examples.

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