Know the terms refraction, reflection and absorption as they refer to the movement of light waves

Three cases happen when a light wave strikes an object. Light waves can either be: absorbed, reflected or refracted. The differences are as follows:

a. Absorption - light stops at the object causing it to appear dark or opaque.

b. Reflection - this could happen either in a smooth or rough surface. On a smooth surface, for example mirror or glass, light bounces off the surface at angle equal to the incoming light wave. On a rough surface e. g. earth, light bounces at many angles because the surface is uneven.

c. Refraction - light goes through the object and bends at an angle. Typical thing you see when diamond or water is struck by light.