If components of the transmission channel have different levels of impedance, some of this energy can be sent back to the transmitting device instead of the receiving device. This is called a ____________.

In a transmission channel, when components have mismatched impedance, it can lead to a phenomenon where some of the signal energy does not continue onward to the receiving device but is reflected back towards the source. This behavior is crucial in understanding signal integrity and transmission efficiency.

The correct term for this scenario is a reflected signal. Reflection occurs because when the impedance of the transmission medium does not match that of the components, the signal encounters an impedance discontinuity, causing part of the signal to be bounced back towards the source instead of passing through. This can result in inefficiencies and potential issues like signal degradation, as the intended recipient of the data does not receive the full energy of the transmission.

In contrast, refracted signals pertain to the bending of waves when they pass through different media, received signals refer to the actual signals that arrive at the receiving device, and transmitted signals describe the signals sent from the source. These terms do not apply to the situation of energy returning to the source due to impedance mismatch, highlighting why a reflected signal is the appropriate term in this context.