Physics 707 (Revision)
The bouncing back of light from the surface of an object is known as
reflection of light.
nature of the reflecting surface.
nature of the surface on which the light falls.
(degree of texture of the surface)
(degree of smoothness of the surface)
(a) we are able to see objects around us when the light reflected by
them enters our eyes.
(b) we can observe reflection of light when light rays fall on a
reflecting surface (e.g.: mirror).
(c) reflection of trees and buildings can be seen on the surface of still
water.
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Physics 707 (Revision)
point of incidence
angle of incidence
angle of reflection
incident ray
reflected ray
normal
A
Image
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Physics 707 (Revision)
Real Image
Definition
Basic formation in
the mirror
(In front or behind
mirror?)
Image reception
(Can it be seen on
screen?)
Interaction of light
rays
(Actual or Imaginary ?)
Position of image
(Inverted or Upright ?)
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Virtual Image
When the rays of light are
reflected from a smooth surface
in such a way that they actually
meet at some point on the
screen, the image so formed is
called real image.
When the rays of light are
reflected from a reflecting
surface in such a way that they
appear to meet at a certain
point but do not actually meet
on the screen, the image so
formed is called virtual image.
formed in the front of the
mirror.
formed in the behind of the
mirror.
can be seen on screen
cannot be taken on a screen
Actual
Imaginary
always inverted
always erect/upright
the image formed by a plane mirror is erect or upright.
2 the image formed is the same size as the object.
3 the image is formed behind the mirror.
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the image formed is virtual and cannot be taken on the screen.
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the image formed is laterally inverted.
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Physics 707 (Revision)
Regular reflection
Diffuse reflection
(Specular reflection)
(Irregular reflection)
Reflection in plane mirror
Image formation
Reflection in scratched mirror
Scattering of light
Regular reflection
Diffuse reflection
(Specular reflection)
(Irregular reflection)
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True
False
False
True
True
True
mirror
spherical
plane
same
invisible
real
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Physics 707 (Revision)
Diffuse reflection
Periscope
Real image
Virtual image
Normal
Lateral inversion
Reflected ray
Specular reflection
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