Question

Using the law of reflection, explain how powder takes the shine off of a person’s nose. What is the name of the optical effect?

Short answer

Light scattering is the optical effect. As a result, there is no shine when the powder is applied to the nose because light rays are diffused when they fall on the rough surface of the nose. Light scattering is the optical effect.

Step-by-step solution

Definition of law of reflection

According to the law of reflection, when a ray of light reflects off a surface, the angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection.

Explain how powder takes the shine off of a person’s nose

The powder is made up of many small particles. Each particle reflects and absorbs a portion of the light energy directed at it.

This means that a large portion of the light is diffused in random directions, reducing shine.