Diffuse Reflection
Diffuse reflection is the process by which light or any other wave is scattered or spread out in different directions when it encounters an uneven or rough surface. Unlike specular reflection, which occurs when light is reflected off a smooth, shiny surface at a definite angle, diffuse reflection results in the scattering of light in various directions.
Key Concepts
- Uneven Surfaces: Diffuse reflection occurs when light strikes an uneven or rough surface.
- Scattering: The light is scattered in multiple directions due to the irregularities of the surface.
- Diffuse Surfaces: Materials such as paper, wood, and unpolished metals are examples of surfaces that exhibit diffuse reflection.
Importance
Diffuse reflection is important in various natural and man-made phenomena, including the appearance of non-shiny objects, the behavior of light in the atmosphere, and the design of reflective surfaces for practical applications.
Study Tips
To understand diffuse reflection, consider the following tips:
- Compare and contrast diffuse reflection with specular reflection to understand the differences in how light interacts with different surfaces.
- Observe the behavior of light on various surfaces in your surroundings to identify examples of diffuse reflection.
- Experiment with different materials and light sources to see how surface roughness affects the scattering of light.
- Review diagrams and illustrations of diffuse reflection to visualize the concept more clearly.
Quiz Yourself
Test your understanding of diffuse reflection with the following questions:
- What is the difference between diffuse reflection and specular reflection?
- Give three examples of materials that exhibit diffuse reflection.
- Explain the importance of diffuse reflection in everyday life.
◂Earth Science Worksheets and Study Guides High School. The Rock Cycle
Worksheet/Answer key
The Rock Cycle 
Worksheet/Answer key
The Rock Cycle Worksheet/Answer key
The Rock Cycle Worksheet/Answer key
The Rock Cycle Vocabulary/Answer key
The Rock Cycle Vocabulary/Answer key
The Rock Cycle Vocabulary/Answer key
The Rock Cycle
Worksheet/Answer keyWorksheet/Answer keyWorksheet/Answer keyVocabulary/Answer keyVocabulary/Answer keyVocabulary/Answer keyThe resources above cover the following skills:
EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE (NGSS)
Earth’s Systems
Students who demonstrate understanding can:
Develop a model to illustrate how Earth’s internal and surface processes operate at different spatial and temporal scales to form continental and ocean-floor features.
EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE (NGSS)
Earth’s Systems
Students who demonstrate understanding can:
Develop a model to illustrate how Earth’s internal and surface processes operate at different spatial and temporal scales to form continental and ocean-floor features.
EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE (NGSS)
Earth’s Systems
Students who demonstrate understanding can:
Develop a model to illustrate how Earth’s internal and surface processes operate at different spatial and temporal scales to form continental and ocean-floor features.
EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE (NGSS)
Earth’s Systems
Students who demonstrate understanding can:
Develop a model to illustrate how Earth’s internal and surface processes operate at different spatial and temporal scales to form continental and ocean-floor features.