What characterizes a micro-reflection in signal analysis?

A micro-reflection in signal analysis is characterized by having a time delay relative to the incident signal. This occurs when a signal encounters a surface or medium that causes a portion of the signal to reflect back toward the source with a slight delay. The delay is a result of the distance the signal must travel to the reflecting surface and back, along with any additional phase shifts that may occur due to properties of the medium.

Understanding the nature of micro-reflectors is crucial in various applications, such as communications and radar systems, where analyzing the timing and characteristics of reflected signals can provide valuable information about the environment or objects within it. Recognizing the delay can help in determining properties such as the distance to the reflecting object, which is essential for accurate signal interpretation and processing.