According to the law of reflection, what is true about the angle of incidence and the angle of reflection?

Study for the NCEA Level 3 Waves Test. Prepare with interactive flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question includes hints and detailed explanations. Equip yourself for success!

The law of reflection states that when a wave (such as light) strikes a reflective surface, the angle at which it arrives, known as the angle of incidence, is always equal to the angle at which it leaves the surface, termed the angle of reflection. This principle is fundamental in optics and can be clearly observed in everyday situations, such as when looking at oneself in a mirror. The equality of these angles is crucial for understanding how waves behave when encountering surfaces, as it ensures that the path of the wave is predictable and consistent with the geometry of reflection. This relationship between the angles is vital for applications in various fields such as physics, engineering, and even art, where light manipulation is required.

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