How is reflection different from absorption?

Answer 1

The amount of light reflected depends on the smoothness of the surface --
smooth reflects better than rough. The amount absorbed depends on the color
of the surface -- dark colors absorb better than light; flat black absorbs
best of all.

Also, the angle at which the light strikes the object has an effect on the
amount absorbed and/or reflected. If the rays strike the surface straight
down at a 90 degree angle, absorption is favored and reflection less favored.
If the light strikes the surface at a low angle, reflection is favored over
absorption.

However, the interplay of these factors and the composition of the surface
can complicate things greatly. Consider also the difference between a black
(or white) car and a black (or white) bath towel -- or the difference between
a glass mirror and a piece of glass covered with a film of flat black soot.
Finally, large differences can occur if the light can penetrate into the
surface. The greater the penetration, the less the reflection and the more
the absorption.

http://www.newton.dep.anl.gov/askasci/phy00/phy00232.htm

Answer 2

Reflection occurs when light or sound waves bounce off a surface and change direction, while absorption involves the transfer of energy from the waves to the material they encounter. In reflection, the waves are not absorbed by the surface, whereas in absorption, the waves are assimilated and converted into other forms of energy.