1. n. [Geophysics]

An interface between layers of contrasting acoustic, optical or electromagnetic properties. Waves of electromagnetism, heat, light and sound can be reflected at such an interface. In seismic data, a reflector might represent a change in lithology, a fault or an unconformity. A reflector is expressed as a reflection in seismic data.

See related terms: acoustic basement,  acoustic impedance,  common depth point,  common midpoint,  common reflection point,  Fresnel zone,  moveout,  normal moveout,  reflection,  tie,  two-way traveltime