When describing surfaces, which is true of a Lambert surface?

When describing surfaces, which is true of a Lambert surface?

• A. Reflects light sporadically
• B. Provides a uniform luminance
• C. Has a shiny finish
• D. Only transmits specific wavelengths

Answer: (B)

A Lambert surface is characterized by its ability to reflect light uniformly in all directions, which results in consistent luminance regardless of the observer's angle. This quality is known as Lambertian reflection. When light hits a Lambert surface, it scatters uniformly, making the brightness appear the same from any viewpoint. This principle is fundamental in various applications, including computer graphics and visual perception, where it is essential to create realistic images that mimic how objects appear under different lighting conditions. The other characteristics mentioned do not apply to a Lambert surface. For example, reflecting light sporadically suggests inconsistency in luminance, which contradicts the definition of a Lambert surface. A shiny finish implies specular reflection, where light is reflected predominantly in one direction rather than uniformly. Lastly, the notion of transmitting specific wavelengths relates more to filters and materials that absorb or allow only certain wavelengths to pass through instead of a surface that reflects light uniformly.

A Lambert surface is characterized by its ability to reflect light uniformly in all directions, which results in consistent luminance regardless of the observer's angle. This quality is known as Lambertian reflection. When light hits a Lambert surface, it scatters uniformly, making the brightness appear the same from any viewpoint. This principle is fundamental in various applications, including computer graphics and visual perception, where it is essential to create realistic images that mimic how objects appear under different lighting conditions.

The other characteristics mentioned do not apply to a Lambert surface. For example, reflecting light sporadically suggests inconsistency in luminance, which contradicts the definition of a Lambert surface. A shiny finish implies specular reflection, where light is reflected predominantly in one direction rather than uniformly. Lastly, the notion of transmitting specific wavelengths relates more to filters and materials that absorb or allow only certain wavelengths to pass through instead of a surface that reflects light uniformly.