Physics A-Level
Contrast
What Contrast means in Physics A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definition of Contrast
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Contrast in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
A star can be 10⁹ times brighter than a reflected-light planet, so the planet's faint signal is swamped.
Topics that use Contrast
- Detection of exoplanets (A-level only) (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- Angular separation
- Baseline
- Doppler shift
- Radial velocity method
- Transit depth
- Transit method
- Coronagraphs
- Depth
Using Contrast 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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