Let me explain the differences between reflectivity, refraction, and diffraction of light.
Reflectivity refers to the ability of a surface to bounce back light rays that strike it. When light hits a reflective surface, such as a mirror or a shiny object, it reflects off the surface and returns in the same direction. This phenomenon allows us to see objects and their colors by reflecting light into our eyes. Reflective tape, for example, is designed to have high reflectivity, making it visible even in low-light conditions.
Refraction, on the other hand, occurs when light waves pass through a medium and change direction due to a change in its speed. This change in direction is caused by the light waves bending as they enter a different medium with a different optical density. A common example of refraction is the bending of light when it passes from air to water or when it passes through a lens. Refraction plays a crucial role in various optical devices, such as eyeglasses and camera lenses.
Diffraction is the bending and spreading out of light waves as they encounter an obstacle or pass through a narrow opening. When light waves encounter an edge or a small aperture, they spread out and change direction. This phenomenon is responsible for the patterns observed when light passes through a narrow slit or around the edges of objects. Diffraction is a fundamental property of waves and is observed in various areas, including optics and acoustics.
In summary, reflectivity refers to the ability of a surface to bounce back light, refraction is the bending of light as it passes through a medium, and diffraction is the bending and spreading out of light waves when they encounter an obstacle or pass through a narrow opening.
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