What occurs during diffuse reflection?

During diffuse reflection, light rays that strike a rough or uneven surface do not reflect uniformly. Instead, the incoming rays scatter in multiple directions as they bounce off the surface. This scattering occurs because the microscopic imperfections and variations in height on the surface cause the angles of reflection to vary for different parts of the light wave. As a result, the light does not simply reflect straight back, leading to a more diffused and softer illumination of the area. This phenomenon is commonly observed with materials such as paper, wood, or painted surfaces, providing a more uniform brightness rather than a sharp reflection.