Reflections
Science: Year 3 & 4 National Curriculum, topic 4.1.2
Reflections
We do not have to look straight at a light source to be able to see.
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.
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.
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.
Test yourself on Reflections
What is true about the light you use to read a book?
The Best Surfaces for Reflecting Light