Physics A-Level
Action at a distance
What Action at a distance means in Physics A-Level, as defined for OCR.
Definition of Action at a distance
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Action at a distance in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: OCR
Non-contact forces explained by the concept of a field, which acts through empty space without needing a medium.
Topics that use Action at a distance
- Point and spherical masses (OCR A-Level)
Related terms
- Critical damping
- Direction of gravitational force
- Escape velocity
- Field
- Field strength and line spacing
- Geostationary orbit
- Gravitational field outside and inside a sphere
- Gravitational field strength
Using Action at a distance 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.
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