Question

A child holds up a silver spoon and is surprised to see her reflection there.



Which interaction between light and matter explains this?

Answer 1

A.
When light hits something relatively flat, smooth, and shiny, it is absorbed by the surface, allowing refracted objects to be seen on the surface.


B.
When light hits something relatively flat, smooth, and shiny, it is refracted by the surface, allowing nearby objects to be seen on the surface.


C.
When light hits something relatively flat, smooth, and shiny, it bounces off the surface, allowing reflected objects to be seen on the surface.


D.
When light hits something relatively flat, smooth, and shiny, it is transmitted by the surface, allowing nearby objects to be seen on the surface.

Answer 2

Whatever the answer is, reflected images are NOT "on the surface".
They are at any position relative to the mirror, even at infinity.