Reflection Coefficient
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Reflection Coefficient
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A measure of the quality of specular reflection produced by a given
surface; defined as the ratio of the radiant energy reflected along the geometrical
reflection path to the total that is incident upon the surface. By definition,
a reflection coefficient of 1.0 implies perfect specular reflection. Compare
reflectivity.
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Reflection coefficients of less than 1.0 occur either as a result of
energy loss by absorption at the reflection surface, or by scattering of the
energy out of the geometrical reflection path due to the diffuse or irregular
nature of the reflecting surface. Note that the reflection coefficient varies
with wavelength since a surface which might appear to be rough at very short
wavelengths is much smoother to longer wavelength radiation. It also varies
with polarization. [[/a>|/a>
]]
References
This article is based on NASA's Dictionary of Technical Terms for Aerospace Use
