Waves

Reflection Coefficient

Fraction of wave power reflected at boundary between two media.

Variables

R
Reflection coefficient
Fraction of power reflected (0-1)
unitless
v₁
Wave speed in medium 1
Incident medium
m/s
v₂
Wave speed in medium 2
Transmitted medium
m/s

Derivation

From continuity of displacement and force at boundary. R = ((Z₂-Z₁)/(Z₂+Z₁))² where Z = ρv.

Your notes

0/5000