1. Reflection: When a wave encounters a boundary between two different materials, a portion of the wave's energy can be reflected back. This is why you see reflections in a mirror or hear echoes. The amount of reflection depends on the properties of the two materials.
2. Refraction: This is the bending of a wave as it passes from one medium to another. This happens because the wave's speed changes as it enters a new material. Refraction is responsible for how lenses focus light and how prisms split white light into a rainbow.
3. Absorption: Some materials absorb the energy of a wave. This means that the wave loses energy as it travels through the material. For example, a thick blanket absorbs sound waves, which is why it helps to reduce noise.
