Physics A-Level
Secondary maxima
What Secondary maxima means in Physics A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definition of Secondary maxima
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Reference: AQA
Features on each side of the central maximum that are narrower and fainter, with intensity decreasing as the order increases so the pattern fades away from the centre.
Topics that use Secondary maxima
- Diffraction (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- Central maximum
- Constructive interference
- Diffraction grating equation
- Experimental control of diffraction variables
- Monochromatic light
- Order of the maximum
- Path difference
- Slit width and diffraction spreading
Using Secondary maxima in the exam
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