Specular vs Diffuse Reflection | GCSE Physics

A set of GCSE Physics diagrams comparing specular and diffuse reflection from smooth and rough surfaces.

These diagrams compare how light reflects from smooth and rough surfaces. Both types of reflection obey the law of reflection, but the varying orientations of a rough surface cause reflected rays to travel in different directions. The transparent-background downloads can be incorporated into presentations, worksheets and other teaching materials.

Flexible for presentation and printing

2 versions included

• Colour

• Greyscale

The colour version is useful for introducing and explaining the difference between specular and diffuse reflection, while the greyscale version provides a clear alternative for printed worksheets, revision materials and assessment questions.

The diagrams can also support students in explaining why parallel incident rays remain parallel after specular reflection but travel in different directions after diffuse reflection.

Relevant curriculum topics

• Light

• Reflection

• Specular reflection

• Diffuse reflection

Available in the SciPics library

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