specular reflection
What specular reflection means in Physics GCSE, as defined for AQA.
Definitions of specular reflection
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Reference: AQA
Reflection from a smooth surface such as a plane mirror, which sends a parallel beam back as a parallel beam so a clear image is seen.
Reflection from a smooth surface in a single direction, where parallel rays stay parallel and a clear image is seen.
Topics that use specular reflection
- Reflection of waves (physics only) (AQA GCSE)
- Visible light (physics only) (AQA GCSE)
Related terms
- absorption
- law of reflection
- transmission
- colour filters
- diffuse reflection
- frequency and wavelength
- heating by absorbed light
- opaque surfaces
Using specular reflection in the exam
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