When light hits a smooth, shiny surface and bounces back, this phenomenon is called?

• A. Absorption
• B. Refraction
• C. Diffraction
• D. Reflection

Answer: (D)

When light hits a smooth, shiny surface and bounces back, that is reflection. On a mirror or polished metal, the incoming light ray bounces off in a single, predictable direction, with the angle it hits the surface (the angle of incidence) equal to the angle at which it leaves (the angle of reflection). This creates a clear image because the surface directs the light in an orderly way. If the surface were rough, the light would scatter in many directions, giving a dull or diffused look. Absorption means the light is taken in by the surface instead of bouncing, refraction is the bending of light as it passes into a different material, and diffraction is light bending around edges or through small openings.