Does Optical Reversibility Apply to Both Reflection and Refraction?

AI Thread Summary
The principle of optical reversibility applies to both reflection and refraction, confirming that a beam of light will follow the same path in reverse if it originates from the opposite side. The symmetry in the trigonometric relationships supports this conclusion. However, there are variations in the intensities of the beams, indicating breaks in symmetry. Despite these intensity differences, the fundamental geometrical optics remain consistent. Overall, the discussion affirms that optical reversibility is valid for both phenomena.
Kathi201
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Does the principle of optical reversibility hold for reflection as well as refraction?
 
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If i understand your question right, I would say the answer is yes. Do you mean that a beam would take the same path but in reverse direction if it came from the other "side"? The trigonometry makes the problems symmetric and thus the answer yes.

There are breaks in symmetry concerning the intensities of the beams though, but the pure geometrical optics is the same.
 
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