To draw a reflected angle, ensure the angle of incidence and the angle of reflection are equal and the reflection occurs off a surface where a normal line (at 90 degrees or a right angle) can be drawn.
Here's a step-by-step guide:
-
Draw the Reflecting Surface: Begin by drawing a straight line representing the reflecting surface (e.g., a mirror).
-
Draw the Normal Line: At the point where the incident ray will strike the surface, draw a line perpendicular (at a 90-degree angle) to the reflecting surface. This is the normal line. You can use a protractor or set square to ensure accuracy.
-
Draw the Incident Ray: Draw a line (the incident ray) approaching the reflecting surface, starting from a light source for example, intersecting at the point where you drew the normal. This creates the angle of incidence (the angle between the incident ray and the normal line).
-
Measure the Angle of Incidence: Use a protractor to measure the angle between the incident ray and the normal line. This is the angle of incidence.
-
Draw the Reflected Ray: The angle of reflection must be equal to the angle of incidence. Measure the same angle from the normal line on the other side of the normal. Draw a line from the point where the incident ray meets the reflecting surface at this measured angle. This is the reflected ray.
Key Principles:
- Angle of Incidence = Angle of Reflection: This is the fundamental law of reflection.
- Normal Line: The normal line is crucial as it's the reference point for measuring the angles of incidence and reflection. It is perpendicular (90 degrees) to the reflecting surface.
Example:
Imagine you have an incident ray hitting a mirror at an angle of 30 degrees to the normal. The reflected ray will also be at an angle of 30 degrees to the normal, but on the opposite side.
