Physics A-Level
Differential absorption
What Differential absorption means in Physics A-Level, as defined for OCR.
Definition of Differential absorption
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Differential absorption in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: OCR
Dense tissue such as bone absorbs more X-rays than soft tissue, so it casts a clearer shadow on the detector.
Topics that use Differential absorption
- Nuclear fission and fusion (OCR A-Level)
Related terms
- Alpha and beta decay
- Barium
- Binding energy
- Binding energy per nucleon against nucleon number curve
- Chain reactions
- Characteristic X-rays from shell transitions
- Compton effect
- Computer reconstruction of attenuation data
Using Differential absorption 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