Question

Why are we not able to see our image on cardboard even though it reflects light?

Answer 1

Hint: In this question, we will use the basic concept of reflection; this will help us to find the required answer easily. Further, we will discuss the basics of light and the law of reflection. We will also see the difference between reflection and refraction for our better understanding.

Complete step-by-step solution
As we know, for regular reflection to occur, the surface should be smooth like a mirror. Here, we cannot see our image on cardboard because the surface of the cardboard is rough and the reflection occurring on an uneven surface is irregular reflection. So, the rays or beams of light, after reflection, move to different directions and therefore do not follow the law of reflection.
Therefore, images are not formed due to irregular reflections on cardboard.
Additional information: As we know that light is known to behave in a very predictable manner, it has dual property. Light can be a wave of particles.
When a beam or ray of light is observed approaching and reflecting off of a flat mirror i.e., smooth surface, then the behavior of the light as it reflects would follow a predictable law which is known as the law of reflection. The law of reflection is defined as the reflection from a smooth surface, the angle of the reflected ray is equal to the angle of the incident ray
Also, we know that light rays change their direction when they reflect off a surface, they move from one transparent medium into another or can travel through a medium whose composition is continuously changing.

Note: We should remember the difference between reflection and refraction. Reflection is observed, when a beam or ray of light falling on a smooth surface changes its direction, whereas refraction is defined as the bending of light towards normal when traveling from one medium to another.