The difference between the words: reflection, deflection and refraction The terms reflection, refraction, and deflection describe different ways a wave (like light or sound) or a moving object changes its direction, though reflection and refraction are specific to wave behavior in physics. Here is a breakdown of the differences: Reflection (Bouncing Back) Reflection is the change in direction of a wave when it strikes a boundary between two different media and remains in the original medium. The wave essentially "bounces back" off the surface. Mechanism: The wave hits an interface and reverses its direction of travel. Change in Properties: The speed, frequency, and wavelength of the wave do not change. Example: Seeing your image in a mirror, an echo of sound, or a ball bouncing off a wall. Refraction (Bending Due to Speed Change) Refraction is the change in the direction and speed of a wave as it passes from one medium to another of a different density. The wave's path appears to "bend." Mechanism: The wave crosses an interface and enters a new medium (e.g., from air to water). The change in the medium's density causes the wave's speed to change, which in turn causes it to bend. Change in Properties: The wave's speed and wavelength change, but its frequency remains the same. Example: A straw appearing bent when placed in a glass of water, a lens focusing light, or the formation of a rainbow. Deflection (General Change in Path) Deflection is a general term used to describe the act of something being diverted, turned aside, or changing its course, typically due to an external force or collision. Mechanism: The object or wave encounters an obstacle, field, or force that causes its path to change. Context: It's a broad term often used for projectiles or particles (e.g., a baseball deflected by a glove, an electron deflected by a magnetic field) but can also be used loosely for waves (e.g., wind deflected by a tall building). Relation to Waves: In the context of waves