Specular Reflection

Mr. Andersen explains specular reflection, where light reflects off a smooth surface like a mirror, maintaining the angle of incidence equal to the angle of reflection. He contrasts this with diffuse reflection, which occurs on irregular surfaces, scattering light in various directions. Using examples like a still lake and a PhET simulation, he illustrates how virtual images form and how surface irregularities like waves or snow affect reflection.

What happens to light when it encounters a surface that is not perfectly straight?

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How do irregularities in a surface affect the reflection of light?

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