Which term describes the reflection of progressive waves by a vertical barrier with minimal energy loss?

The term that describes the reflection of progressive waves by a vertical barrier with minimal energy loss is wave reflection. In this process, when a wave encounters a barrier, it bounces back into the medium from which it originated, maintaining most of its energy. This is particularly evident with vertical barriers, such as seawalls, where the incident wave encounters the structure directly.

Wave reflection is a fundamental concept in wave dynamics and helps explain various phenomena observed in ocean waves interacting with structures, shorelines, and other obstacles. It is crucial in coastal engineering, where understanding how waves reflect off structures can influence design decisions and minimize potential erosion or damage.

Other terms listed in the question refer to different wave behaviors. Wave refraction involves the bending of waves as they move from one medium to another or as they encounter varying depths of water, affecting their speed and direction. Wave diffraction describes the spreading of waves as they pass around obstacles or through openings. Wave absorption relates to the loss of energy as waves encounter materials that convert wave energy into other forms of energy, which does not pertain to the scenario of reflection with minimal energy loss.