The correct option is (b).
Explanation
Reflection is the phenomenon where light bounces off a surface and changes direction. Any surface that is sufficiently smooth and polished can reflect light in a regular manner, thereby acting as a mirror.- Statement 1 is Incorrect: It is not only glass surfaces that can change the direction of light. Any object that light falls on can change its direction through reflection, scattering, or refraction. For example, a stainless steel plate, a polished wooden table, or a metal sheet can also change the direction of light.
- Statement 2 is Correct: A mirror is essentially any surface that is smooth and polished enough to reflect light regularly (specular reflection). Therefore, any polished or shiny surface, such as a new stainless steel plate or a calm water surface, can act as a mirror.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: The surface of water does not absorb all light; it reflects a significant portion of it. This reflection allows us to see images of trees or buildings in a pond or lake. While water does absorb some light (and refracts some), it definitely acts as a reflecting surface.
Key Takeaway: Reflection is not limited to glass mirrors; any polished or shiny surface capable of regular reflection can act as a mirror and change the direction of light.