Physics A-Level
Accretion
What Accretion means in Physics A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definition of Accretion
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Accretion in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
A process through which supermassive black holes grow over billions of years, alongside mergers, emitting intense radiation from accreting matter.
Topics that use Accretion
- Supernovae, neutron stars and black holes (A-level only) (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- Active galactic nuclei
- Black hole
- Chandrasekhar limit
- dark energy
- Light curve
- Long-duration GRB
- Luminosity
- Neutron star
Using Accretion 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