The bouncing back of a wave, such as light or sound, when it hits a surface it cannot pass through is called.

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Multiple Choice

The bouncing back of a wave, such as light or sound, when it hits a surface it cannot pass through is called.

Explanation:
Reflection is the bouncing back of a wave when it hits a boundary it cannot pass through. Here, since the surface prevents transmission, the wave is redirected back into the original medium, which is why light or sound appears to bounce off the surface. For a smooth surface, the angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection. If the wave could pass into the material, you’d see refraction; if the energy were absorbed, it would be absorption; and if the wave bent around an obstacle, that would be diffraction.

Reflection is the bouncing back of a wave when it hits a boundary it cannot pass through. Here, since the surface prevents transmission, the wave is redirected back into the original medium, which is why light or sound appears to bounce off the surface. For a smooth surface, the angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection. If the wave could pass into the material, you’d see refraction; if the energy were absorbed, it would be absorption; and if the wave bent around an obstacle, that would be diffraction.

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