What determines whether a wave is reflected, refracted, or absorbed when encountering a barrier?

The correct answer highlights the significance of both the nature of the barrier and the type of wave when determining how a wave interacts upon encountering a barrier. Each interaction—reflection, refraction, or absorption—depends greatly on the material properties of the barrier (such as density, elasticity, and structure) and the characteristics of the wave in question (such as its speed and medium).

For instance, when a wave intersects a barrier that is denser than the medium it is traveling through, a portion of the wave may be reflected back, while some might be absorbed or transmitted depending on the barrier's properties. Similarly, refraction occurs when the wave passes into a different medium; this bending of the wave is influenced by the wave's speed change due to the differing mediums.

Thus, the bidirectional relationship between wave properties and barrier characteristics ultimately dictates the behavior of the wave when it meets any given obstacle. This multifaceted interaction underlies the fundamental principles of wave behavior in various environments.