Characteristics of Specular Reflection

Question

What are characteristics of Specular Reflection? Illustrate with an appropriate diagram?

Answer 1

Specular reflection is when the reflection is stronger in one viewing direction, that is, there is a bright spot, known as specular highlight. This is readily apparent on the shiny surfaces. For an ideal reflector, like a mirror, the angle of incidence is to equal the angle of specular reflection, is as given below:

Light is reflected mainly in the direction of the reflected ray and is attenuated by an amount dependent on to the physical properties of the surface. Because the light reflected from the surface is mainly in the direction of the reflected ray the position of the observer determines the perceived illumination of the surface. Specular reflection models the light reflecting properties of mirror or shiny-like surfaces.

In addition to diffuse reflection, light sources generate highlights or bright spots which are known as specular reflection. This highlighting is more pronounced on the shiny surface than on dull surfaces.

(ii) Therefore, the local illumination model that is usually used is:

Illumination = Ambient + Diffuse + Specular