Reflection
Explanation
Light interacts with matter in various ways depending on the nature of the surface and the medium. When light travels from one medium to another, it can be absorbed, transmitted, or returned to the original medium. The specific phenomenon depends on the boundary conditions.
Option Analysis
- Dispersion is incorrect: Dispersion is the phenomenon of splitting of visible light into its component colors (spectrum) due to the dependence of the refractive index on the wavelength of light (e.g., formation of a rainbow or light passing through a prism).
- Refraction is incorrect: Refraction is the change in direction (bending) of a wave passing from one medium to another caused by its change in speed. In this process, light enters the second medium rather than bouncing back.
- Reflection is correct: Reflection is the phenomenon where light strikes a surface and bounces back into the same medium. This follows the laws of reflection, where the angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection.
- Diffraction is incorrect: Diffraction refers to the slight bending of light as it passes around the edge of an object or through a narrow aperture. It is a wave property distinct from simple reflection.
Key Takeaway: Reflection involves the return of light into the same medium after striking a boundary, whereas refraction involves the transmission and bending of light as it enters a different medium.