What type of reflection occurs from a smooth or polished surface?

Specular reflection occurs when light rays hit a smooth or polished surface, such as a calm body of water or a mirror, and are reflected in a single, coherent direction. This type of reflection results in clear, defined images because the incident light rays are reflected at equal angles, maintaining their order and producing a sharp reflection. In contrast, diffuse reflection occurs on rough or matte surfaces, where light is scattered in multiple directions, leading to a less distinct image. Regular reflection is not a commonly used term in optics, while scattered reflection typically refers to the randomness of light dispersing from irregular surfaces. Thus, the nature of specular reflection makes it the correct choice in this context, highlighting its reliance on the smoothness and polish of the surface involved.