Enter the reflected value and the original or incident value into the Calculator. The calculator will evaluate the Percent Reflection. 

Percent Reflection Formula

PRF = RV / OV * 100

Variables:

  • PRF is the Percent Reflection (%)
  • RV is the reflected value
  • OV is the original or incident value

To calculate Percent Reflection, divide the reflected value by the incident value, then multiply by 100.

How to Calculate Percent Reflection?

The following steps outline how to calculate the Percent Reflection.


  1. First, determine the reflected value. 
  2. Next, determine the original or incident value. 
  3. Next, gather the formula from above = PRF = RV / OV * 100.
  4. Finally, calculate the Percent Reflection.
  5. After inserting the variables and calculating the result, check your answer with the calculator above.

Example Problem : 

Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.

reflected value = 56

original or incident value = 80

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the importance of calculating Percent Reflection?

Calculating Percent Reflection is crucial in various fields such as optics, acoustics, and telecommunications to understand how much of a wave is reflected back from a surface or medium compared to how much is incident upon it. This helps in designing more efficient systems and materials.

Can Percent Reflection exceed 100%?

No, Percent Reflection cannot exceed 100%. A value of 100% would indicate that all the incident energy is reflected back, which is the maximum possible reflection. Values above 100% are not physically meaningful in the context of reflection.

How does the nature of the surface affect Percent Reflection?

The nature of the surface, including its material properties, smoothness, and angle of incidence, significantly affects the Percent Reflection. Smooth, highly conductive surfaces tend to reflect more energy, while rough or absorptive materials reflect less.

Is it possible to achieve zero Percent Reflection?

Yes, it is theoretically possible to achieve zero Percent Reflection under certain conditions, such as when the incident wave is fully absorbed by the medium or when specific anti-reflective coatings are used that are designed to minimize reflection at certain wavelengths.