Reflection vs Total Internal Reflection — Difference (with Table)
Reflection vs Total Internal Reflection compared side by side — a 6-row comparison table and 4 key points. Class 10 Physics, free and no sign-up.
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TL;DR: Reflection vs Total Internal Reflection compared side by side — a 6-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 Total Internal Reflection: Reflection is bouncing of light from a surface. Total internal reflection is complete reflection when light hits a less dense medium at steep angle.
Reflection vs Total Internal Reflection — Comparison Table
| Basis | Reflection | Total Internal Reflection |
|---|---|---|
| Occurrence | Any surface reflecting light | Only at denser to less dense boundary |
| Refraction | Some light may refract | No refraction, all light reflects |
| Angle | Any angle of incidence | Must exceed critical angle |
| Critical Angle | Not applicable | sin C = 1/n |
| Example | Mirror reflection | Prism, diamond sparkle |
| Efficiency | Partial reflection | 100% reflection |
Key Points
- Reflection obeys law of reflection at any angle
- Total internal reflection requires specific conditions
- Critical angle determines total internal reflection
- Fiber optics use total internal reflection