Applet: Pool Table Angles
For this applet, the cue ball is fixed in the bottom right corner, but you can change its aim by moving point F. As you adjust the trajectory, watch how the angles of incidence and reflection change. Try it out and see what you notice!
If the angle of incidence is 30°, what will the angle of reflection be? Move point F to check your answer.
Is it possible for the angle of reflection to be larger than the angle of incidence? Why or why not?
What consistent relationship do you see between the angle of incidence and the angle of reflection?