Reflection makes mirrors work — Physical education, 7–10 years
Light can bounce from a surface instead of being absorbed or passing through. A smooth surface sends the light in an organised direction, so we can see an image in a mirror.
Light bouncing back
When light reaches a surface, some of it may bounce back. This is reflection. A shiny, smooth surface sends nearby rays in a tidy pattern, while a rough surface scatters them in many directions and usually does not form a clear image.
Why we need reflection
We see most objects because light from a source reaches them and then travels into our eyes. Without that returning light, a lamp could shine in a dark room but the objects around it would not be visible. Smooth reflective surfaces help guide light, which led people to make mirrors and signalling tools.
Seeing a book in a mirror
Place a book in front of a mirror and shine a torch on it. Light travels from the torch to the book, then reflects from the book to the mirror, and then reflects from the mirror into your eyes. Because the rays reach your eyes in an orderly way, you see the book’s image.
Reflection is not only in mirrors
A common mistake is to think only a mirror reflects light. In fact, paper, walls, water and almost every visible object reflect some light. A mirror looks special because its smooth surface keeps the reflected rays organised enough to make a sharp image.
Reflection in daily life
Mirrors let drivers see behind them and let people check their appearance. Reflective strips on clothing and bicycles send car headlights back towards drivers, making the wearer easier to notice at night. Road signs also use reflection so they can be read when headlights shine on them.
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