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Q: Does specular reflection occur when it hits a dull surface?
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What is the term for reflection of a light wave from and uneven surface?

A wave reflecting from an irregular surface experiences what is called as Diffuse or irregular Reflection. If light is reflected from a smooth surface (think of a mirror) then it is called specular reflection. With diffuse reflection, light goes off from the surface in a range of directions which does not create a reflected image. In diffuse reflection, one sees basically a chaotic sampling of light reflected from the object emitting the light and so normally one can detect little about shape and only get information about the colors of the light source.


Would you expect a dull or shiny surface to be a better absorber?

Dull surface is a better absorber. A shiny surface would better reflect than absorb.


What is a dull surface called?

matte


Which is the best absorber of inferared radiation heat a dull surface or a shiny one?

A dull surface will absorb infrared best, but it needs to be dull at infrared wavelengths. Do not judge the infrared behavior by the visible performance.


Do shiny surfaces reflect light better than dull surfaces?

A more definitive answer: If you look at a dull surface under a microscope you'll find that is is not smooth, even if it appears so to the naked eye. There are may microscopic bumps and depressions. This means that rather than a single, consistent surface there are many tiny surfaces facing in random directions. Light is subsequently reflected in random directions. In other words, there is no consistent reflection. Conversely, a shiny surface will appear much smoother. The irregularities on such a surface are generally too small to affect light in the visible spectrum. This means there is a single consistent surface for light to reflect from.

Related questions

What is the term for reflection of a light wave from and uneven surface?

A wave reflecting from an irregular surface experiences what is called as Diffuse or irregular Reflection. If light is reflected from a smooth surface (think of a mirror) then it is called specular reflection. With diffuse reflection, light goes off from the surface in a range of directions which does not create a reflected image. In diffuse reflection, one sees basically a chaotic sampling of light reflected from the object emitting the light and so normally one can detect little about shape and only get information about the colors of the light source.


Metallic surface which gives a clear reflection?

Highly polished metal was used for mirrors before switching to glass. While it will reflect, the metal needs to be kept polished or the reflection will dull.


Is copper dull on the surface?

After my opinion the fresh surface of copper is not dull.


Would you expect a dull or shiny surface to be a better absorber?

Dull surface is a better absorber. A shiny surface would better reflect than absorb.


What is a dull surface called?

matte


What is the difference between satin stainless steel and gloss stainless steel finishes?

Satin finish is characterized by surface appearance, that reflects light in a dull-yet-shiny way. Gloss finish creates surface with slightly rougher texture or to minimize glare and reflection.


Which is the best absorber of inferared radiation heat a dull surface or a shiny one?

A dull surface will absorb infrared best, but it needs to be dull at infrared wavelengths. Do not judge the infrared behavior by the visible performance.


What are characteristics of luster?

Luster is: "The reflection of light from the surface of a mineral, described by its quality and intensity; the appearance of a mineral in reflected light." Common descriptive words would be glassy, dull, earthy, waxy, vitreous, metallic, etc...


Which surface radiates heat the best?

Dull Black Surfaces


Is neptunium luster or dull?

The fresh surface of neptunium is silvery.


Is iron is shiny or dull?

A fresh surface of iron is shiny.


Do shiny surfaces reflect light better than dull surfaces?

A more definitive answer: If you look at a dull surface under a microscope you'll find that is is not smooth, even if it appears so to the naked eye. There are may microscopic bumps and depressions. This means that rather than a single, consistent surface there are many tiny surfaces facing in random directions. Light is subsequently reflected in random directions. In other words, there is no consistent reflection. Conversely, a shiny surface will appear much smoother. The irregularities on such a surface are generally too small to affect light in the visible spectrum. This means there is a single consistent surface for light to reflect from.