Reflection vs Refraction — Difference (with Table)
Reflection vs Refraction compared side by side — a 5-row comparison table and 4 key points. Class 10 Physics, free and no sign-up.
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TL;DR: Reflection vs Refraction compared side by side — a 5-row comparison table and 4 key points. Class 10 Physics, free and no sign-up.
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The main difference between Reflection and Refraction: Reflection and refraction are light phenomena explaining how light behaves at boundaries, essential for CBSE Class 10 Physics optics. Mastering them unlock
Reflection vs Refraction — Comparison Table
| Basis | Reflection | Refraction |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Light bounces back from surface | Light bends while passing through medium |
| Interface | Occurs at surface boundary | Occurs when light enters different medium |
| Direction | Light returns in original direction | Light changes direction |
| Medium | No change in medium | Light moves between different mediums |
| Laws | Angle of incidence = angle of reflection | Snell's law: n1 sin θ1 = n2 sin θ2 |
Key Points
- Reflection obeys law: angle of incidence equals angle of reflection
- Refraction occurs due to change in speed of light in different mediums
- Mirrors demonstrate reflection; lenses demonstrate refraction
- Water appears shallower than it actually is due to refraction