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Reflectivity: meaning, definitions and examples

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reflectivity

 

[rɪˌflɛkˈtɪvɪti ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in physics

The ratio of the intensity of reflected radiation to the intensity of incident radiation.

Synonyms

brightness, reflectance.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
reflectivity

Typically used in scientific or technical contexts to describe the property of reflecting light or other radiation.

  • The reflectivity of the material was measured using a spectrometer
reflectance

Often used in scientific and engineering contexts to refer to the fraction of incident radiation that a surface reflects.

  • The reflectance of the coating was tested to ensure it met industry standards
  • Reflectance measurements are crucial in studying solar panels
brightness

Commonly used in everyday language to describe how much light an object emits or reflects, perceived by the human eye.

  • The brightness of the sun made it hard to see
  • The screen's brightness can be adjusted for better visibility

Examples of usage

  • The reflectivity of the mirror was very high, almost all the light was reflected back.
  • The reflectivity of the surface can be measured using specialized equipment.
Context #2 | Noun

in meteorology

The fraction of radiation reflected by a surface.

Synonyms

albedo, reflectance.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
reflectivity

Used in physics and engineering to describe how well a surface or material can reflect light or other electromagnetic radiation. Commonly used in discussions about materials, optics, and surfaces in scientific contexts.

  • The reflectivity of the new coating was tested in the lab.
  • Materials with high reflectivity can improve energy efficiency in buildings.
albedo

Primarily used in astronomy and climate science to describe the proportion of incoming light or radiation that is reflected by a surface, particularly planets, moons, or Earth's surface. It typically refers to the ability of different surfaces (like ice, water, vegetation) to reflect sunlight.

  • The albedo of the Earth's surface affects global temperatures.
  • Ice has a higher albedo compared to water, reflecting more solar radiation.
reflectance

Used in the context of optics, physics, and remote sensing to describe the fraction of incident radiation that is reflected by a surface. It is a more technical term often found in scientific literature, particularly in studies dealing with light behavior on surfaces.

  • We measured the reflectance of the surface to determine its optical properties.
  • High reflectance values indicate that the surface reflects most of the incident light.

Examples of usage

  • The high reflectivity of the snow caused the sunlight to bounce off it.
  • The reflectivity of the clouds affects the amount of sunlight reaching the ground.
Context #3 | Noun

in technology

The ability of a material to reflect light.

Synonyms

gloss, shine.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
reflectivity

Used in scientific and technical contexts to refer to how well a surface can reflect light or other radiation.

  • The reflectivity of the new material makes it ideal for solar panels.
  • We need to measure the reflectivity of this coating to ensure it meets our standards.
shine

A general term used in everyday language to describe the brightness or brilliance of a surface that reflects light. It can be used in both positive and negative contexts.

  • The shine on his shoes made them look brand new.
  • She polished the table until it had a brilliant shine.
gloss

Used when talking about the shiny surface of an object, often in marketing, art, or design. It can also refer to the finish or polish of a surface.

  • The gloss on this car's paint makes it stand out from the rest.
  • She loved the gloss of the new magazine covers.

Examples of usage

  • The reflectivity of the screen is important for visibility in bright environments.
  • The reflectivity of the material determines its use in optical devices.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Different surfaces have varying levels of reflectivity; for instance, a mirror reflects much more light than a rough stone.
  • Reflectivity is crucial in fields like solar energy, where shiny surfaces can capture sunlight and convert it into power.
  • The amount of light reflected can change based on the angle at which it strikes the surface, known as the angle of incidence.

Art

  • In art, the use of shiny materials can significantly affect the perception of brightness and depth in a painting.
  • Some modern sculptors incorporate highly reflective metals to create striking visual forms that interact with their surroundings.
  • Artists often use techniques of light and color to manipulate how viewers perceive the reflectivity of their work, creating illusions.

Technology

  • In optics, reflectivity is a key property used in designing lenses and mirrors for telescopes.
  • Smartphone screens utilize reflective coatings to improve visibility under sunlight, ensuring that the display is easier to read.
  • Mirror technology is applied in various industries, including automotive reflective surfaces that enhance safety by improving visibility.

Environment

  • Reflectivity affects climate; surfaces that are darker absorb more heat, while lighter surfaces reflect sunlight, influencing local temperatures.
  • Urban heat islands occur when city materials have low reflectivity, leading to higher local temperatures compared to rural areas.
  • Scientists study planetary reflectivity to understand atmospheres; higher reflectivity can indicate thick cloud cover or ice.

Physics

  • The law of reflection states that the angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection, a fundamental concept in wave behavior.
  • Reflectivity is quantified as a percentage and can apply to various types of waves, including light and sound.
  • Experiments in physics often demonstrate reflectivity using different materials to showcase how it varies under various conditions.

Translations

Translations of the word "reflectivity" in other languages:

🇵🇹 refletividade

🇮🇳 परावर्तनशीलता

🇩🇪 Reflexivität

🇮🇩 reflektifitas

🇺🇦 відбивна здатність

🇵🇱 refleksyjność

🇯🇵 反射率

🇫🇷 réflectivité

🇪🇸 reflectividad

🇹🇷 yansıtıcılık

🇰🇷 반사율

🇸🇦 انعكاسية

🇨🇿 reflexivita

🇸🇰 reflexivita

🇨🇳 反射率

🇸🇮 reflektivnost

🇮🇸 endurkastshæfni

🇰🇿 шағылыстыру қабілеті

🇬🇪 არეკვლის უნარი

🇦🇿 reflektivlik

🇲🇽 reflectividad