Reflectivity: meaning, definitions and examples

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reflectivity

[ rɪˌflɛkˈtɪvɪti ]

^{Context #1}

in physics

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

Synonyms

brightness, reflectance

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}

in meteorology

The fraction of radiation reflected by a surface.

Synonyms

albedo, reflectance

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}

in technology

The ability of a material to reflect light.

Synonyms

gloss, shine

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.

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

Word origin

The word 'reflectivity' has its origins in the Latin word 'reflectere', which means 'to bend back'. It first appeared in the English language in the mid-19th century. Reflectivity is a key concept in physics, meteorology, and technology, describing the ability of a surface to reflect light or radiation. Understanding reflectivity is essential in various fields, from designing mirrors and optical devices to studying climate patterns and surface properties.