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enter image description hereI saw a photograph of a polar bear who is under the water surface. I would like to receive an explanation about the reflection of the polar bear on the water surface, which creates a second image.

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    $\begingroup$ Research total internal reflection. $\endgroup$ Commented Sep 1, 2019 at 20:17
  • $\begingroup$ Do you have a link to the photograph? $\endgroup$ Commented Sep 1, 2019 at 21:22
  • $\begingroup$ As @probably_someone mentioned, a better explanation can be had if you could link (or edit the post to include) the photograph. $\endgroup$ Commented Sep 2, 2019 at 5:38
  • $\begingroup$ en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Total_internal_reflection $\endgroup$ Commented Sep 3, 2019 at 2:36
  • $\begingroup$ Thank you very much for this link, it provides a very good explanation. $\endgroup$ Commented Sep 3, 2019 at 12:45

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You get reflection at every interface between mismatched refractive indices, it is only a matter of percentage. If the surface is smooth enough and there is not too much light coming in fom above the surface to swamp out the image, a reflection will be seen.

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  • $\begingroup$ Thank you, this answers my question. I have also attached a photograph of the bear with the reflection. $\endgroup$ Commented Sep 3, 2019 at 12:34

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