Which of the following is an example of diffuse reflection?
light reflected from the surface of a dry asphalt roadway
light reflected from the surface of a calm lake
light reflected from the surface of glossy paper
light reflected from the surface of a shiny metal plate
To determine which of the given options is an example of diffuse reflection, we need to understand what diffuse reflection means.
Diffuse reflection occurs when light is scattered in many different directions upon striking a rough or uneven surface. This results in a non-directional reflection, where the light is not reflected at an angle equal to the angle of incidence.
Now, let's analyze each option:
1. Light reflected from the surface of a dry asphalt roadway: This is likely an example of diffuse reflection since asphalt roadways have a rough surface with tiny imperfections that can cause the light to scatter in different directions.
2. Light reflected from the surface of a calm lake: Calm lakes usually have smooth surfaces, so the light would reflect at an angle equal to the angle of incidence. Therefore, this is likely not an example of diffuse reflection.
3. Light reflected from the surface of glossy paper: Glossy paper has a smooth surface, so the light would reflect at an angle equal to the angle of incidence. Therefore, this is also likely not an example of diffuse reflection.
4. Light reflected from the surface of a shiny metal plate: Shiny metal surfaces have a smooth and reflective surface, causing the light to reflect at an angle equal to the angle of incidence. Therefore, this is also likely not an example of diffuse reflection.
Based on the explanations above, the example of diffuse reflection is light reflected from the surface of a dry asphalt roadway.