What is the definition of "reflection" in scientific terms?

In scientific terms, "reflection" refers to the bouncing back of light or sound waves when they encounter a surface. While the term can encompass the broader concept of waves striking reflective surfaces, the option that most accurately captures this definition is an image of something in a reflective surface, such as light reflecting off a mirror or water. This reflection occurs due to the interaction between the waves and the surface, resulting in the appearance of an image. The other options do not align with the concept of reflection; for example, a physical change in state refers to changes between solid, liquid, and gas, while recycling involves the processing of materials, and energy transfer pertains to the movement of energy from one place to another. These concepts are distinct from the essential principle of reflection as it pertains to waves and their interaction with surfaces.