Optical Reflection: Difference Between a Mirror and a White Surface?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the optical and physical differences between mirrors and white surfaces. A white surface reflects all wavelengths of visible light diffusely, resulting in a lack of defined images, while a mirror reflects light specularly, preserving the image and direction of the incoming light. Additionally, mirrors can be considered to have a color based on their reflective properties, although this is not typically perceived in the same way as colored surfaces. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for applications in optics and materials science.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of diffuse reflection and specular reflection
  • Basic knowledge of optics and light behavior
  • Familiarity with condensed matter physics concepts
  • Awareness of electromagnetic radiation properties
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of diffuse reflection versus specular reflection
  • Explore the optical properties of different materials in relation to light reflection
  • Study the condensed matter physics behind surface interactions with light
  • Investigate the concept of color perception in reflective surfaces
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics, materials science, and optical engineering, as well as anyone interested in the fundamental principles of light reflection and surface properties.

Islam Hassan
Messages
237
Reaction score
5
If a surface is perceived as being white because it reflects all wavelenghts of visible electromagnetic radiation, how does this differ from a mirror surface which also reflects all impinging light?

How is a mirror different from a white surface i) optically and ii) at the level of condensed matter physics?

Can a mirror be said to have a colour? What would this be, if any?


IH
 
Science news on Phys.org

Similar threads

Undergrad How Can I Build an Effective DIY Helmet-Mounted HUD?
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
5K
Undergrad Optics question: Looking at mirrors from parallel to the surface
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Undergrad Fabry-Perot Interferometer mirrors
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
5K
High School Why do reflections in water sometimes appear different from what we see?
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
4K
Undergrad Image appears outside of q -- Lens Maker's Equation confusion
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
3K
Undergrad Depth effect in mirror reflections
  • · Replies 24 ·
Replies
24
Views
16K
Graduate The coherence length is much longer than the manufacturer claims
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
Undergrad Polarization of light and diffuse/specular reflection
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
5K
High School Optical effect seen on a bus: mirrored screen shows different colors
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
11K
Undergrad Why do mirrors reflect light but white surfaces don't?
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
12K