Ohio Assessment for Educators (OAE) Integrated Science (024) Practice Exam

Which type of surface reflection is observed with very smooth surfaces such as glass or calm water?

1. Specular reflection

2. Diffused reflection

3. Rough reflection

4. Scattered reflection

The correct answer is: Specular reflection

Specular reflection occurs when light reflects off a smooth surface, such as glass or calm water, in a predictable and organized manner. In this type of reflection, the angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection, allowing the image to be clearly seen if the surface is perfectly smooth. This results in sharp and defined reflections, which is why objects can be vividly and accurately reflected on the surfaces described. In contrast, other types of reflection involve different surface characteristics. Diffused reflection refers to light bouncing off rough surfaces in multiple directions, leading to a scattered appearance rather than a clear image. Rough reflection would similarly describe the chaotic bouncing of light on uneven surfaces. Scattered reflection also implies that light is dispersed in various directions, which further obscures the details of any reflections. Thus, specular reflection is unique in its ability to produce clear and distinct images due to the smoothness of the reflecting surface.