4.1.2

Reflections

Test yourself

Reflections

We do not have to look straight at a light source to be able to see.

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Reflection

  • We can see things that are not light sources because light bounces off them and into our eyes.
    • When light bounces off things it is called reflection.
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Using light to read a book

  • When you read a book, you are using reflected light.
  • The book is NOT a light source
    • You can see a book because the light comes from a light source (e.g. a lamp), is reflected by the book and goes into your eye.
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Reflection on different surfaces

  • Shiny surfaces reflect light well.
  • Matte surfaces scatter the light so they look dull.
  • Black surfaces do not reflect much light.
  • A mirror reflects most of the light so that we can see the reflection.

Jump to other topics

1Year 3: Plants

2Year 3: Animals (Including Humans)

3Year 3: Rocks

3.1Rocks on Earth

4Year 3: Light

5Year 3: Forces & Magnets

6Year 4: Living Things & Their Habitats

7Year 4: Animals, Including Humans

8Year 4: States of Matter

9Year 4: Sound

10Year 4: Electricity

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