Analysing Reflection and Refraction of

Waves
By Ms Nurul Ain Mat Aron
describe reflection of waves in terms of the angle of incidence,
angle of reflection, wavelength, frequency, speed and direction of
propagation
draw a diagram to show reflection of waves

Objectives
Reflection of Waves
Reflection of waves refers to the return of all part of the waves when
they encounter an obstacles (reflectors)
reflectors
Law of Reflection
When plane water waves are incident perpendicularly onto a straight
reflector, the waves are reversed.
Straight reflector
Incident
wave
reflected
wave
Law of Reflection
When plane waves are incident at an angle i onto a straight reflector,
the waves are reflected at an angle equal to i. i = r
Wavefront of
incidence
wave
Applications in Everyday Life
Reflection of sound waves from smooth walls causes the sounds to be
muddled and indistinct
To prevent reflection of sound:
a) Cover the walls in the concert hall or auditorium with soft material
to absorb the sound.
b) Use long curtains to cover the windows and soft carpet to cover the
floors
Sound Waves
Applications in Everyday Life
Rushing sea waves which are reflected from the shore always cause
huge and continuous damages to the shire as the waves carry large
amount of kinetic energy.
To prevent coastal shore erosion by sea waves:
a) build a huge concrete and rock walls in the sea near the shore to
act as wave-breakers.
Water Waves
Incidents
wave
sea
Shore is protected
from being hit by
large waves
Barrier wall