Physics A-Level
Acceptance angle
What Acceptance angle means in Physics A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definition of Acceptance angle
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Acceptance angle in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
The angle at the entrance face that determines whether an incoming ray can be guided; rays entering too steeply are refracted out through the cladding rather than trapped.
Topics that use Acceptance angle
- Refraction at a plane surface (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- Absorption
- Critical angle
- Material dispersion
- Modal dispersion
- Pulse broadening
- Step-index optical fibre
- Total internal reflection
Using Acceptance angle in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Physics questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All Physics A-Level termsA week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge