Standard Science Primary 4 Energy

Why is it easier to see your reflection in a still pond compared to a pond with ripples?

A Still water reflects light in a regular manner while ripples scatter light.
B Ripples absorb all the light hitting the water.
C Light cannot travel through moving water.
D Ripples are translucent while still water is transparent.
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Worked Solution

Step 1: Reflection on a smooth surface (still water) is regular/specular. Step [2-9]: Rough surfaces (ripples) cause light to reflect in many different directions (diffuse reflection). Step [2-9]: Scattered light does not form a clear image.

Correct answer: Still water reflects light in a regular manner while ripples scatter light.

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