reflectance

noun

re·​flec·​tance ri-ˈflek-tən(t)s 

: the fraction of the total radiant flux incident upon a surface that is reflected and that varies according to the wavelength distribution of the incident radiation

The basis of this approach is that different materials exhibit unique reflectance and emission properties as a function of wavelength across the electromagnetic spectrum.

—Jeffrey Star and John Estes

broadly, nontechnically : reflectivity

screen reflectance

compare albedo

Examples of reflectance in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Glints along early digital renderings of missiles were almost certainly computed using the Phong reflectance model that Bùi developed. —TIME, 16 May 2024

Data on the transmission and reflectance of materials at terahertz frequencies is important for analyzing and developing applications. —IEEE Spectrum, 7 Mar. 2024

The stickers were essentially thin, flexible layers of camo with the potential to take on a pattern to match the soldiers’ infrared reflectance to their background. —Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 28 Mar. 2023

The optical sensors in satellites are calibrated to measure reflectance over specific bands of the electromagnetic spectrum. —IEEE Spectrum, 19 Feb. 2022

Word History

First Known Use

1893, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

reflectance

noun

re·​flec·​tance ri-ˈflek-tən(t)s 

: the fraction of the total radiant flux incident upon a surface that is reflected and that varies according to the wavelength distribution of the incident radiation

called also reflection coefficient, reflection factor