Reflecties

Reflecties is the plural of reflectie in Dutch. The term is used for several related concepts in science, technology and everyday language, all connected by the idea of a mirrored image or a process of consideration. In everyday language, reflecties can refer to the image seen in a surface such as a mirror, or to reconsidering ideas and experiences, i.e., reflective thinking.

In geometry, a reflection is an isometry that maps every point to its mirror image across a line (in two dimensions) or a plane (in three dimensions). The line or plane of reflection is the set of fixed points. Reflections preserve distances and angles but reverse orientation. The composition of two reflections across intersecting lines yields a rotation; the composition across parallel lines yields a translation. A simple example is reflecting points across the y-axis.

In optics, reflection occurs when light or other waves strike a boundary and a portion is redirected back into the original medium. The law of reflection states that the angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection, measured with respect to the normal to the surface. Surfaces can produce specular (mirror-like) reflections or diffuse reflections, depending on their roughness. Practical applications include mirrors, optical instruments and solar energy devices.

In psychology and education, reflecties refers to reflective practice or self-reflection, a deliberate consideration of one's own beliefs, decisions and actions. This process is used to improve learning, professional performance and decision-making, often through journaling, discussion or feedback.