1. Reflection: Part of the light can be reflected, meaning it bounces off the surface in a predictable manner according to the law of reflection. The angles of incident and reflected light are equal, and they lie in the same plane perpendicular to the surface. Reflection can be specular (mirror-like) or diffuse (scattering in multiple directions).
2. Refraction: If the light passes from one medium (e.g., air) into another (e.g., glass or water), refraction occurs. This phenomenon involves a change in the direction of light as it crosses the boundary between two materials with different refractive indices. The refractive index determines how much the light bends as it enters or exits the second medium.
3. Absorption: Depending on the surface's material properties, some of the light's energy may be absorbed. The surface appears colored if it selectively absorbs certain wavelengths of light while reflecting others. Absorption converts light energy into other forms, such as heat or chemical energy.
4. Transmission: If the surface is partially or fully transparent, part of the light may pass through it without significant absorption or reflection. Materials that allow transmission of light, such as glass or clear plastic, are called transparent materials.
5. Scattering: Irregularities or particles on the surface can cause light scattering, which means the light is redirected in various directions as if bouncing off numerous miniature reflectors. Scattering contributes to the appearance of diffused reflection and translucency (partial transmission and diffusion).
The actual behavior of light upon hitting a surface is determined by multiple factors, including the surface's smoothness, composition, thickness, color, and the wavelengths of the incident light.
