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To describe reflection

Science - Light and Sound

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Task 1: How does light interact with objects?

Match each diagram to the type of interaction of light with the object.

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reflection

absorption

transmission

bending of light when it bounces off a surface

transfer of light energy into heat inside object

light passes through an object

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Task 2: Properties of objects

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opaque

transparent

translucent

Explain in your own words

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Can you see through the object?

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Example

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Copy the table below in your exercise book and complete it.

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Task 3: Law of reflection

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  1. Light is reflected at different angles. The angles of incidence are given in the table below. Copy the table into your exercise book. Fill out the angles of reflection.
  2. In your own words, describe the law of reflection.

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Angle of incidence

10°

45°

70°

Angle of reflection

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Task 4: Ray diagrams

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  • Copy the two surfaces below in your exercise books. Draw four lines showing how light rays would be reflected off each surface.
  • Label each of the ray diagrams as either regular reflection or diffuse reflection.

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Smooth surface

_________ reflection

Rough surface

_________ reflection

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Answers

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Task 1: How does light interact with objects?

Match each diagram to the type of interaction of light with the object.

​

​

​

​

​

reflection

absorption

transmission

bending of light when it bounces off a surface

transfer of light energy into heat inside object

light passes through an object

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Task 2: Properties of objects

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opaque

transparent

translucent

Explain in your own words

Light cannot pass through

Almost all light passes through

Some light passes through

Can you see through the object?

No

Yes (clear image)

Yes (blurry image)

Example

E.g. apple

E.g. window

E.g. ice

Copy the table below in your exercise book and complete it.

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Task 3: Law of reflection

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  • Light is reflected at different angles. The angles of incidence are given in the table below. Copy the table in your exercise book. Fill out the angles of reflection.
  • In your own words, describe the law of reflection. Answers will vary: On reflection from a smooth surface, the angle of the reflected ray is equal to the angle of the incident (incoming) ray.

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Angle of incidence

10°

45°

70°

Angle of reflection

10°

45°

70°

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Task 4: Ray diagrams

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  1. Copy the two surfaces below in your exercise books. Draw four lines showing how light rays would be reflected off each surface.
  2. Label each of the ray diagrams as either regular reflection or diffuse reflection.

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Smooth surface

Regular reflection

Rough surface diffuse reflection

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Developed in partnership and made possible �by joint funding from Commonwealth, state �and territory governments.

For more resources

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edresearch.edu.au

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ochre.org.au

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@EdResearchAU

@OchreEducation