Specular reflection

Objects with smooth surfaces produce specular (mirror-like) reflections because light reflects off their surfaces at consistent angles.

  • All objects obey the law of reflection on a microscopic level.
  • If the irregularities on the surface of an object are smaller than the wavelengths of incident light then reflected light travels away from the surface at consistent angles.
  • When an observer looks at specular reflections (regular reflections), they see mirror-like images on the surface of an object.
About diffuse reflection
  • If the irregularities on the surface of an object are larger than the wavelengths of the incident light, light reflects in all directions and produces diffuse reflections.
  • A diffuse reflection is easily distinguished from the mirror-like qualities of a specular reflection.
  • Diffuse reflection is responsible for the way we perceive the colours and textures of objects.
  • The combination of specular and diffuse reflections determines the overall appearance of objects in terms of shininess, dullness, or roughness.
Related diagrams

Each diagram below can be viewed on its own page with a full explanation.

References