law of reflection
What law of reflection means in Physics GCSE, as defined for AQA.
Definitions of law of reflection
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain law of reflection in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
The rule that the angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection, both measured from the normal.
The angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection, both measured from the normal.
Topics that use law of reflection
- Reflection of waves (physics only) (AQA GCSE)
- Visible light (physics only) (AQA GCSE)
Related terms
- absorption
- specular reflection
- transmission
- colour filters
- diffuse reflection
- frequency and wavelength
- heating by absorbed light
- opaque surfaces
Using law of reflection in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Physics questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge