Source: https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/9-1-4-large-diameter-telescopes

[Revision notes](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes.md) › [A Level](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level.md) › [Physics](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics.md) › [AQA](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa.md) › Large Diameter Telescopes

# Large Diameter Telescopes

Physics: AQA A Level, topic 9.1.4

## Resolving power

Telescopes are good for looking at distant stars but when two stars are close together there is a limit at which we can no longer tell them apart.

### Distinguishing stars

![Distinguishing stars](https://image-v2.cdn.app.senecalearning.com/2018-04/eb293c7a-ab94-42a6-9acb-4408d412e30b/shutterstock_122147881.jpg)

- When light passes through a lens it diffracts (bends) slightly and is slightly distorted. 
- This diffraction means that if two objects are too close together we will not be able to tell them apart as the diffraction patterns will merge the images into one.

### The Rayleigh criterion

![The Rayleigh criterion](https://image-v2.cdn.app.senecalearning.com/courseImages/physics/1.4.2%20Equilibrium/calculator-983900_640-min.jpg)

- The Rayleigh criterion states that two images are just resolvable when the centre of the diffraction pattern of one object is directly over the first minimum of the diffraction pattern of the other.
- For a circular lens the equation for the angular location (in radians) of the first minimum of a diffraction pattern is:
 - Angle = (1.22 x the wavelength of light) ÷ (the diameter of the lens)
 - $${\theta}=1.22{\times}\frac{{\lambda}}{D}$$

## Collecting Power and Size of Large Diameter Telescopes

Larger telescopes gather more radiation.

### Collecting power

![Collecting power](https://image-v2.cdn.app.senecalearning.com/courseImages/physics/AQA%20New%20Modules/8.1.1/stars.jpg)

- Collecting power is directly proportional to the square of the diameter of the aperture or primary mirror.
- The total power of detected light is equal to the intensity from the source × the gathering area.

### Collecting power cont.

![Collecting power cont.](https://image-v2.cdn.app.senecalearning.com/courseImages/physics/AQA%20New%20Modules/8.1.1/large%20star.jpg)

- Because the gathering area is equal to π × r² for a circular telescope mirror, the total power is directly proportional to the radius squared and so the diameter squared.

## Charge-Coupled Devices and the Eye

A CCD (charge-coupled device) converts electrical signals to digital.  The eye and the CCD unit both detect light. In many ways, they are similar.

### Similarities

![Similarities](https://image-v2.cdn.app.senecalearning.com/2018-08/b3aab26a-4264-4904-b8ea-d2886cd45ee8/human-eye-995168_1920.jpg)

- A lens is required to focus light on to a detector.
- The eye has rod cells and cone cells in the retina designed to give an electrical response to a light stimulus. The CCD chip performs a similar function, but with tiny slivers of silicon.
- Neither the CCD nor the eye needs any development, as it would with camera film.

### Resolving power

![Resolving power](https://image-v2.cdn.app.senecalearning.com/2018-08/65ce079c-609b-4cb7-b6f6-78f843531d63/retina-eye-.jpg)

- The retina has significantly greater resolving power than a CCD chip.

### Exposure

![Exposure](https://image-v2.cdn.app.senecalearning.com/2018-09/045ebd0c-25b2-4d67-b7e3-5d98c13ccc4b/eye-test-.jpg)

- The eye’s ‘shutter’ speed is fixed and the eye cannot perform long exposure imagery.
- The CCD device can take exposures as long as several hours. This lets much fainter objects be detected.

## Test yourself on Large Diameter Telescopes

- Why does diffraction limit the resolution of a telescope?
- The Rayleigh criterion is true for what type of lens?
- Why is the collecting power of a telescope proportional to the square of the radius of the aperture?
- If the radius of a telescope aperture increases by a factor of 2, what factor does the collecting power of that telescope increase by?
- If the radius of a telescope aperture increases by a factor of 6, what factor does the collecting power of that telescope increase by?

[Practise this topic for free](https://app.senecalearning.com/classroom/course/890da800-6a58-11e8-973c-cb81832c8407/section/11140ae3-c260-4686-8870-d73551dfd85c/session)

- Previous topic: [9.1.3 Single Dish Radio Telescopes](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/9-1-3-single-dish-radio-telescopes.md)
- Next topic: [9.2.1 Classification by Luminosity](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/9-2-1-classification-by-luminosity.md)

## Physics: AQA A Level contents

### 1 Measurements & Errors
- 1.1 Measurements & Errors
  - [1.1.1 SI Base Units](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/1-1-1-si-base-units.md)
  - [1.1.2 Combining SI Units](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/1-1-2-combining-si-units.md)
  - [1.1.3 Prefixes of Units](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/1-1-3-prefixes-of-units.md)
  - [1.1.4 Standard Form](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/1-1-4-standard-form.md)
  - [1.1.5 Converting Units](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/1-1-5-converting-units.md)
  - [1.1.6 End of Topic Test - Units & Prefixes](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/1-1-6-end-of-topic-test-units-and-prefixes.md)
  - [1.1.7 Limitation of Physical Measurements](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/1-1-7-limitation-of-physical-measurements.md)
  - [1.1.8 Uncertainty](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/1-1-8-uncertainty.md)
  - [1.1.9 Estimation](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/1-1-9-estimation.md)
  - [1.1.10 End of Topic Test - Measurements & Errors](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/1-1-10-end-of-topic-test-measurements-and-errors.md)
  - [1.1.11 Diagnostic Misconceptions - Converting between SI](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/1-1-11-diagnostic-misconceptions-converting-between-si.md)
  - [1.1.12 Diagnostic Misconceptions - SI & Area/Volume](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/1-1-12-diagnostic-misconceptions-si-and-areavolume.md)

### 2 Particles & Radiation
- 2.1 Particles
  - [2.1.1 Atomic Model](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/2-1-1-atomic-model.md)
  - [2.1.2 Specific Charge, Protons & Neutron Numbers](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/2-1-2-specific-charge-protons-and-neutron-numbers.md)
  - [2.1.3 End of Topic Test - Atomic Model](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/2-1-3-end-of-topic-test-atomic-model.md)
  - [2.1.4 Isotopes](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/2-1-4-isotopes.md)
  - [2.1.5 Stable & Unstable Nuclei](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/2-1-5-stable-and-unstable-nuclei.md)
  - [2.1.6 End of Topic Test - Isotopes & Nuclei](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/2-1-6-end-of-topic-test-isotopes-and-nuclei.md)
  - [2.1.7 A-A* (AO3/4) - Stable & Unstable Nuclei](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/2-1-7-a-a-ao34-stable-and-unstable-nuclei.md)
  - [2.1.8 Particles, Antiparticles & Photons](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/2-1-8-particles-antiparticles-and-photons.md)
  - [2.1.9 Particle Interactions](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/2-1-9-particle-interactions.md)
  - [2.1.10 Classification of Particles](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/2-1-10-classification-of-particles.md)
  - [2.1.11 End of Topic Test - Particles & Interactions](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/2-1-11-end-of-topic-test-particles-and-interactions.md)
  - [2.1.12 Quarks & Antiquarks](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/2-1-12-quarks-and-antiquarks.md)
  - [2.1.13 Application of Conservation Laws](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/2-1-13-application-of-conservation-laws.md)
  - [2.1.14 End of Topic Test - Leptons & Quarks](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/2-1-14-end-of-topic-test-leptons-and-quarks.md)
  - [2.1.15 Exam-Style Question -  Radioactive Decay](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/2-1-15-exam-style-question-radioactive-decay.md)
- 2.2 Electromagnetic Radiation & Quantum Phenomena
  - [2.2.1 The Photoelectric Effect](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/2-2-1-the-photoelectric-effect.md)
  - [2.2.2 The Photoelectric Effect Explanation](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/2-2-2-the-photoelectric-effect-explanation.md)
  - [2.2.3 End of Topic Test - The Photoelectric Effect](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/2-2-3-end-of-topic-test-the-photoelectric-effect.md)
  - [2.2.4 Collisions of Electrons with Atoms](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/2-2-4-collisions-of-electrons-with-atoms.md)
  - [2.2.5 Energy Levels & Photon Emission](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/2-2-5-energy-levels-and-photon-emission.md)
  - [2.2.6 Wave-Particle Duality](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/2-2-6-wave-particle-duality.md)
  - [2.2.7 End of Topic Test - Absorption & Emission](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/2-2-7-end-of-topic-test-absorption-and-emission.md)
  - [2.2.8 Diagnostic Misconceptions - Electron Volts](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/2-2-8-diagnostic-misconceptions-electron-volts.md)
  - [2.2.9 Diagnostic Misconceptions - Converting eV & Joules](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/2-2-9-diagnostic-misconceptions-converting-ev-and-joules.md)

### 3 Waves
- 3.1 Progressive & Stationary Waves
  - [3.1.1 Progressive Waves](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/3-1-1-progressive-waves.md)
  - [3.1.2 Wave Speed & Phase Difference](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/3-1-2-wave-speed-and-phase-difference.md)
  - [3.1.3 Longitudinal & Transverse Waves](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/3-1-3-longitudinal-and-transverse-waves.md)
  - [3.1.4 End of Topic Test - Progressive Waves](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/3-1-4-end-of-topic-test-progressive-waves.md)
  - [3.1.5 Polarisation](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/3-1-5-polarisation.md)
  - [3.1.6 Stationary Waves](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/3-1-6-stationary-waves.md)
  - [3.1.7 Stationary Waves 2](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/3-1-7-stationary-waves-2.md)
  - [3.1.8 End of Topic Test - Polarisation & Stationary Wave](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/3-1-8-end-of-topic-test-polarisation-and-stationary-wave.md)
  - [3.1.9 A-A* (AO3/4) - Stationary Waves](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/3-1-9-a-a-ao34-stationary-waves.md)
- 3.2 Refraction, Diffraction & Interference
  - [3.2.1 Interference](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/3-2-1-interference.md)
  - [3.2.2 Interference 2](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/3-2-2-interference-2.md)
  - [3.2.3 End of Topic Test - Interference](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/3-2-3-end-of-topic-test-interference.md)
  - [3.2.4 Diffraction](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/3-2-4-diffraction.md)
  - [3.2.5 Diffraction Gratings](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/3-2-5-diffraction-gratings.md)
  - [3.2.6 End of Topic Test - Diffraction](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/3-2-6-end-of-topic-test-diffraction.md)
  - [3.2.7 Refraction at a Plane Surface](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/3-2-7-refraction-at-a-plane-surface.md)
  - [3.2.8 Internal Reflection & Fibre Optics](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/3-2-8-internal-reflection-and-fibre-optics.md)
  - [3.2.9 End of Topic Test - Refraction](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/3-2-9-end-of-topic-test-refraction.md)
  - [3.2.10 Exam-Style Question - Waves](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/3-2-10-exam-style-question-waves.md)

### 4 Mechanics & Materials
- 4.1 Force, Energy & Momentum
  - [4.1.1 Scalars & Vectors](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-1-scalars-and-vectors.md)
  - [4.1.2 Vector Problems](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-2-vector-problems.md)
  - [4.1.3 End of Topic Test - Scalars & Vectors](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-3-end-of-topic-test-scalars-and-vectors.md)
  - [4.1.4 Moments](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-4-moments.md)
  - [4.1.5 Centre of Mass](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-5-centre-of-mass.md)
  - [4.1.6 End of Topic Test - Moments & Centre of Mass](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-6-end-of-topic-test-moments-and-centre-of-mass.md)
  - [4.1.7 Motion in a Straight Line](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-7-motion-in-a-straight-line.md)
  - [4.1.8 Graphs of Motion](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-8-graphs-of-motion.md)
  - [4.1.9 Bouncing Ball Example](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-9-bouncing-ball-example.md)
  - [4.1.10 End of Topic Test - Motion in a Straight Line](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-10-end-of-topic-test-motion-in-a-straight-line.md)
  - [4.1.11 Acceleration Due to Gravity](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-11-acceleration-due-to-gravity.md)
  - [4.1.12 Projectile Motion](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-12-projectile-motion.md)
  - [4.1.13 Friction](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-13-friction.md)
  - [4.1.14 Terminal Speed](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-14-terminal-speed.md)
  - [4.1.15 End of Topic Test - Acceleration Due to Gravity](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-15-end-of-topic-test-acceleration-due-to-gravity.md)
  - [4.1.16 Newton's Laws](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-16-newtons-laws.md)
  - [4.1.17 Momentum](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-17-momentum.md)
  - [4.1.18 Momentum 2](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-18-momentum-2.md)
  - [4.1.19 End of Topic Test - Newton's Laws & Momentum](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-19-end-of-topic-test-newtons-laws-and-momentum.md)
  - [4.1.20 A-A* (AO3/4) - Newton's Third Law](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-20-a-a-ao34-newtons-third-law.md)
  - [4.1.21 Work & Energy](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-21-work-and-energy.md)
  - [4.1.22 Power & Efficiency](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-22-power-and-efficiency.md)
  - [4.1.23 Conservation of Energy](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-23-conservation-of-energy.md)
  - [4.1.24 End of Topic Test - Work, Energy & Power](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-24-end-of-topic-test-work-energy-and-power.md)
  - [4.1.25 Exam-Style Question - Forces](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-25-exam-style-question-forces.md)
  - [4.1.26 Diagnostic Misconceptions - Perpendicular Vectors](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-26-diagnostic-misconceptions-perpendicular-vectors.md)
  - [4.1.27 Diagnostic Misconceptions - Weight Acts Downwards](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-27-diagnostic-misconceptions-weight-acts-downwards.md)
  - [4.1.28 Diagnostic Misconceptions - Acceleration Direction](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-28-diagnostic-misconceptions-acceleration-direction.md)
  - [4.1.29 Diagnostic Misconceptions - Stationary Objects](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-29-diagnostic-misconceptions-stationary-objects.md)
  - [4.1.30 Diagnostic Misconceptions - Action & Reaction](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-30-diagnostic-misconceptions-action-and-reaction.md)
  - [4.1.31 Diagnostic Misconceptions - RF Direction](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-31-diagnostic-misconceptions-rf-direction.md)
  - [4.1.32 Diagnostic Misconceptions - RF Acceleration](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-32-diagnostic-misconceptions-rf-acceleration.md)
  - [4.1.33 Diagnostic Misconceptions - Change in Momentum](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-1-33-diagnostic-misconceptions-change-in-momentum.md)
- 4.2 Materials
  - [4.2.1 Density](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-2-1-density.md)
  - [4.2.2 Bulk Properties of Solids](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-2-2-bulk-properties-of-solids.md)
  - [4.2.3 Energy in Materials](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-2-3-energy-in-materials.md)
  - [4.2.4 Young Modulus](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-2-4-young-modulus.md)
  - [4.2.5 End of Topic Test - Materials](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/4-2-5-end-of-topic-test-materials.md)

### 5 Electricity
- 5.1 Current Electricity
  - [5.1.1 Basics of Electricity](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/5-1-1-basics-of-electricity.md)
  - [5.1.2 Current-Voltage Characteristics](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/5-1-2-current-voltage-characteristics.md)
  - [5.1.3 End of Topic Test - Basics of Electricity](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/5-1-3-end-of-topic-test-basics-of-electricity.md)
  - [5.1.4 Resistivity](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/5-1-4-resistivity.md)
  - [5.1.5 Superconductivity](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/5-1-5-superconductivity.md)
  - [5.1.6 A-A* (AO3/4) - Superconductivity](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/5-1-6-a-a-ao34-superconductivity.md)
  - [5.1.7 End of Topic Test - Resistivity & Superconductors](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/5-1-7-end-of-topic-test-resistivity-and-superconductors.md)
  - [5.1.8 Circuits](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/5-1-8-circuits.md)
  - [5.1.9 Power and Conservation](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/5-1-9-power-and-conservation.md)
  - [5.1.10 Potential Divider](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/5-1-10-potential-divider.md)
  - [5.1.11 Emf & Internal Resistance](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/5-1-11-emf-and-internal-resistance.md)
  - [5.1.12 End of Topic Test - Power & Potential](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/5-1-12-end-of-topic-test-power-and-potential.md)
  - [5.1.13 Exam-Style Question - Resistance](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/5-1-13-exam-style-question-resistance.md)
  - [5.1.14 Diagnostic Misconceptions - Constant Current](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/5-1-14-diagnostic-misconceptions-constant-current.md)
  - [5.1.15 Diagnostic Misconceptions - Potential Difference](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/5-1-15-diagnostic-misconceptions-potential-difference.md)

### 6 Further Mechanics & Thermal Physics (A2 only)
- 6.1 Periodic Motion (A2 only)
  - [6.1.1 Circular Motion](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/6-1-1-circular-motion.md)
  - [6.1.2 Circular Motion 2](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/6-1-2-circular-motion-2.md)
  - [6.1.3 End of Topic Test - Circular Motion](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/6-1-3-end-of-topic-test-circular-motion.md)
  - [6.1.4 Simple Harmonic Motion](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/6-1-4-simple-harmonic-motion.md)
  - [6.1.5 Simple Harmonic Systems](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/6-1-5-simple-harmonic-systems.md)
  - [6.1.6 Energy in Simple Harmonic Motion](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/6-1-6-energy-in-simple-harmonic-motion.md)
  - [6.1.7 Resonance](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/6-1-7-resonance.md)
  - [6.1.8 End of Topic Test - Simple Harmonic Motion](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/6-1-8-end-of-topic-test-simple-harmonic-motion.md)
  - [6.1.9 A-A* (AO3/4) - Simple Harmonic Motion](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/6-1-9-a-a-ao34-simple-harmonic-motion.md)
- 6.2 Thermal Physics (A2 only)
  - [6.2.1 Thermal Energy Transfer](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/6-2-1-thermal-energy-transfer.md)
  - [6.2.2 Thermal Energy Transfer Experiments](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/6-2-2-thermal-energy-transfer-experiments.md)
  - [6.2.3 Ideal Gases](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/6-2-3-ideal-gases.md)
  - [6.2.4 Ideal Gases 2](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/6-2-4-ideal-gases-2.md)
  - [6.2.5 Boyle's Law & Charles' Law](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/6-2-5-boyles-law-and-charles-law.md)
  - [6.2.6 Molecular Kinetic Theory Model](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/6-2-6-molecular-kinetic-theory-model.md)
  - [6.2.7 Molecular Kinetic Theory Model 2](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/6-2-7-molecular-kinetic-theory-model-2.md)
  - [6.2.8 End of Topic Test - Thermal Energy & Ideal Gases](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/6-2-8-end-of-topic-test-thermal-energy-and-ideal-gases.md)
  - [6.2.9 Exam-Style Question - Ideal Gases](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/6-2-9-exam-style-question-ideal-gases.md)
  - [6.2.10 Diagnostic Misconceptions - Material & Mass](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/6-2-10-diagnostic-misconceptions-material-and-mass.md)
  - [6.2.11 Diagnostic Misconceptions - No Energy](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/6-2-11-diagnostic-misconceptions-no-energy.md)

### 7 Fields & Their Consequences (A2 only)
- 7.1 Fields (A2 only)
  - [7.1.1 Fields](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/7-1-1-fields.md)
- 7.2 Gravitational Fields (A2 only)
  - [7.2.1 Newton's Law](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/7-2-1-newtons-law.md)
  - [7.2.2 Gravitational Field Strength](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/7-2-2-gravitational-field-strength.md)
  - [7.2.3 Gravitational Potential](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/7-2-3-gravitational-potential.md)
  - [7.2.4 Orbits of Planets & Satellites](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/7-2-4-orbits-of-planets-and-satellites.md)
  - [7.2.5 Escape Velocity & Synchronous Orbits](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/7-2-5-escape-velocity-and-synchronous-orbits.md)
  - [7.2.6 End of Topic Test - Gravitational Fields](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/7-2-6-end-of-topic-test-gravitational-fields.md)
- 7.3 Electric Fields (A2 only)
  - [7.3.1 Coulomb's Law](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/7-3-1-coulombs-law.md)
  - [7.3.2 Electric Field Strength](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/7-3-2-electric-field-strength.md)
  - [7.3.3 Electric Field Strength 2](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/7-3-3-electric-field-strength-2.md)
  - [7.3.4 Electric Potential](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/7-3-4-electric-potential.md)
  - [7.3.5 End of Topic Test - Electric Fields](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/7-3-5-end-of-topic-test-electric-fields.md)
  - [7.3.6 A-A* (AO3/4) - Electric and Gravitational Field](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/7-3-6-a-a-ao34-electric-and-gravitational-field.md)
- 7.4 Capacitance (A2 only)
  - [7.4.1 Capacitance](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/7-4-1-capacitance.md)
  - [7.4.2 Parallel Plate Capacitor](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/7-4-2-parallel-plate-capacitor.md)
  - [7.4.3 Energy Stored by a Capacitor](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/7-4-3-energy-stored-by-a-capacitor.md)
  - [7.4.4 Capacitor Discharge](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/7-4-4-capacitor-discharge.md)
  - [7.4.5 Capacitor Charge](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/7-4-5-capacitor-charge.md)
- 7.5 Magnetic Fields (A2 only)
  - [7.5.1 Magnetic Flux Density](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/7-5-1-magnetic-flux-density.md)
  - [7.5.2 End of Topic Test - Capacitance & Flux Density](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/7-5-2-end-of-topic-test-capacitance-and-flux-density.md)
  - [7.5.3 Moving Charges in a Magnetic Field](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/7-5-3-moving-charges-in-a-magnetic-field.md)
  - [7.5.4 Magnetic Flux & Flux Linkage](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/7-5-4-magnetic-flux-and-flux-linkage.md)
  - [7.5.5 Electromagnetic Induction](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/7-5-5-electromagnetic-induction.md)
  - [7.5.6 Electromagnetic Induction 2](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/7-5-6-electromagnetic-induction-2.md)
  - [7.5.7 Alternating Currents](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/7-5-7-alternating-currents.md)
  - [7.5.8 Operation of a Transformer](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/7-5-8-operation-of-a-transformer.md)
  - [7.5.9 Magnetic Flux Density](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/7-5-9-magnetic-flux-density.md)
  - [7.5.10 End of Topic Test - Electromagnetic Induction](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/7-5-10-end-of-topic-test-electromagnetic-induction.md)

### 8 Nuclear Physics (A2 only)
- 8.1 Radioactivity (A2 only)
  - [8.1.1 Rutherford Scattering](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/8-1-1-rutherford-scattering.md)
  - [8.1.2 Alpha & Beta Radiation](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/8-1-2-alpha-and-beta-radiation.md)
  - [8.1.3 Gamma Radiation](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/8-1-3-gamma-radiation.md)
  - [8.1.4 Radioactive Decay](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/8-1-4-radioactive-decay.md)
  - [8.1.5 Half Life](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/8-1-5-half-life.md)
  - [8.1.6 End of Topic Test - Radioactivity](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/8-1-6-end-of-topic-test-radioactivity.md)
  - [8.1.7 Nuclear Instability](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/8-1-7-nuclear-instability.md)
  - [8.1.8 Nuclear Radius](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/8-1-8-nuclear-radius.md)
  - [8.1.9 Mass & Energy](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/8-1-9-mass-and-energy.md)
  - [8.1.10 Binding Energy](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/8-1-10-binding-energy.md)
  - [8.1.11 Induced Fission](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/8-1-11-induced-fission.md)
  - [8.1.12 Safety Aspects of Nuclear Reactors](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/8-1-12-safety-aspects-of-nuclear-reactors.md)
  - [8.1.13 End of Topic Test - Nuclear Physics](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/8-1-13-end-of-topic-test-nuclear-physics.md)
  - [8.1.14 A-A* (AO3/4) - Nuclear Fusion](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/8-1-14-a-a-ao34-nuclear-fusion.md)

### 9 Option: Astrophysics (A2 only)
- 9.1 Telescopes (A2 only)
  - [9.1.1 Astronomical Telescopes](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/9-1-1-astronomical-telescopes.md)
  - [9.1.2 Reflecting Telescopes](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/9-1-2-reflecting-telescopes.md)
  - [9.1.3 Single Dish Radio Telescopes](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/9-1-3-single-dish-radio-telescopes.md)
  - [9.1.4 Large Diameter Telescopes](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/9-1-4-large-diameter-telescopes.md)
- 9.2 Classification of Stars (A2 only)
  - [9.2.1 Classification by Luminosity](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/9-2-1-classification-by-luminosity.md)
  - [9.2.2 Absolute Magnitude](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/9-2-2-absolute-magnitude.md)
  - [9.2.3 Black Body Radiation](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/9-2-3-black-body-radiation.md)
  - [9.2.4 Stellar Spectral Classes](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/9-2-4-stellar-spectral-classes.md)
  - [9.2.5 Hertzsprung-Russell Diagrams](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/9-2-5-hertzsprung-russell-diagrams.md)
  - [9.2.6 Astronomical Objects](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/9-2-6-astronomical-objects.md)
- 9.3 Cosmology (A2 only)
  - [9.3.1 Doppler Effect](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/9-3-1-doppler-effect.md)
  - [9.3.2 Hubble's Law](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/9-3-2-hubbles-law.md)
  - [9.3.3 Quasars](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/9-3-3-quasars.md)
  - [9.3.4 Detecting Exoplanets](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/9-3-4-detecting-exoplanets.md)

### 10 Option: Medical Physics (A2 only)
- 10.1 Physics of the Eye (A2 only)
  - [10.1.1 Physics of Vision](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/10-1-1-physics-of-vision.md)
  - [10.1.2 Defects of Vision](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/10-1-2-defects-of-vision.md)
  - [10.1.3 Lenses](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/10-1-3-lenses.md)
  - [10.1.4 Correcting Defects of Vision](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/10-1-4-correcting-defects-of-vision.md)
- 10.2 Physics of the Ear (A2 only)
  - [10.2.1 Structure of the Ear](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/10-2-1-structure-of-the-ear.md)
  - [10.2.2 Sensitivity of the Ear](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/10-2-2-sensitivity-of-the-ear.md)
  - [10.2.3 Hearing Defects](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/10-2-3-hearing-defects.md)
- 10.3 Biological Measurement (A2 only)
  - [10.3.1 Electrocardiography (ECG)](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/10-3-1-electrocardiography-ecg.md)
- 10.4 Non-Ionising Imaging (A2 only)
  - [10.4.1 Ultrasound Imaging](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/10-4-1-ultrasound-imaging.md)
  - [10.4.2 Ultrasound Imaging 2](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/10-4-2-ultrasound-imaging-2.md)
  - [10.4.3 Fibre Optics & Endoscopy](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/10-4-3-fibre-optics-and-endoscopy.md)
  - [10.4.4 Magnetic Resonance Scanning](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/10-4-4-magnetic-resonance-scanning.md)
- 10.5 X-Ray Imaging (A2 only)
  - [10.5.1 Diagnostic X-Rays](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/10-5-1-diagnostic-x-rays.md)
  - [10.5.2 X-Ray Image Processing](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/10-5-2-x-ray-image-processing.md)
  - [10.5.3 Absorption of X-Rays](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/10-5-3-absorption-of-x-rays.md)
  - [10.5.4 CT Scanners](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/10-5-4-ct-scanners.md)
- 10.6 Radionuclide Imaging & Therapy (A2 only)
  - [10.6.1 Imaging Techniques](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/10-6-1-imaging-techniques.md)
  - [10.6.2 Half Life](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/10-6-2-half-life.md)
  - [10.6.3 Gamma Camera](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/10-6-3-gamma-camera.md)
  - [10.6.4 High Energy X-Rays](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/10-6-4-high-energy-x-rays.md)
  - [10.6.5 Radioactive Implants](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/10-6-5-radioactive-implants.md)
  - [10.6.6 Imaging Comparisons](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/10-6-6-imaging-comparisons.md)

### 11 Option: Engineering Physics (A2 only)
- 11.1 Rotational Dynamics (A2 only)
  - [11.1.1 Moment of Inertia](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/11-1-1-moment-of-inertia.md)
  - [11.1.2 Rotational Kinetic Energy](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/11-1-2-rotational-kinetic-energy.md)
  - [11.1.3 Rotational Motion](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/11-1-3-rotational-motion.md)
  - [11.1.4 Torque & Angular Acceleration](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/11-1-4-torque-and-angular-acceleration.md)
  - [11.1.5 Angular Momentum](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/11-1-5-angular-momentum.md)
  - [11.1.6 Angular Work & Power](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/11-1-6-angular-work-and-power.md)
- 11.2 Thermodynamics & Engines (A2 only)
  - [11.2.1 First Law of Thermodynamics](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/11-2-1-first-law-of-thermodynamics.md)
  - [11.2.2 Non-Flow Processes](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/11-2-2-non-flow-processes.md)
  - [11.2.3 p-V Diagrams](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/11-2-3-p-v-diagrams.md)
  - [11.2.4 Engine Cycles](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/11-2-4-engine-cycles.md)
  - [11.2.5 Second Law & Engines](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/11-2-5-second-law-and-engines.md)
  - [11.2.6 Reversed Heat Engines](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/11-2-6-reversed-heat-engines.md)

### 12 Option: Turning Points in Physics (A2 only)
- 12.1 Discovery of the Electron (A2 only)
  - [12.1.1 Cathode Rays](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/12-1-1-cathode-rays.md)
  - [12.1.2 Thermionic Electron Emission](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/12-1-2-thermionic-electron-emission.md)
  - [12.1.3 Electron Specific Charge](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/12-1-3-electron-specific-charge.md)
  - [12.1.4 Millikan's Experiment](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/12-1-4-millikans-experiment.md)
- 12.2 Wave-Particle Duality (A2 only)
  - [12.2.1 Newton's & Huygen's Theories of Light](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/12-2-1-newtons-and-huygens-theories-of-light.md)
  - [12.2.2 Electromagnetic Waves](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/12-2-2-electromagnetic-waves.md)
  - [12.2.3 Photoelectricity](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/12-2-3-photoelectricity.md)
  - [12.2.4 Wave-Particle Duality](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/12-2-4-wave-particle-duality.md)
  - [12.2.5 Electron Microscopes](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/12-2-5-electron-microscopes.md)
- 12.3 Special Relativity (A2 only)
  - [12.3.1 Michelson-Morley Experiment](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/12-3-1-michelson-morley-experiment.md)
  - [12.3.2 Einstein's Theory of Special Relativity](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/12-3-2-einsteins-theory-of-special-relativity.md)
  - [12.3.3 Time Dilation](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/12-3-3-time-dilation.md)
  - [12.3.4 Length Contraction](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/12-3-4-length-contraction.md)
  - [12.3.5 Mass & Energy](https://senecalearning.com/en-gb/revision-notes/a-level/physics/aqa/12-3-5-mass-and-energy.md)