Wave-particle duality and the de Broglie wavelength
What Wave-particle duality and the de Broglie wavelength means in Physics A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definition of Wave-particle duality and the de Broglie wavelength
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Wave-particle duality and the de Broglie wavelength in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
Accelerated electrons have a much shorter de Broglie wavelength than visible light, which gives a far better resolution than an optical microscope.
Topics that use Wave-particle duality and the de Broglie wavelength
- Electron microscopes (A-level only) (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- de Broglie wavelength of electrons
- Energy conservation in electron acceleration
- Feedback control systems
- Order-of-magnitude estimation in physics
- Quantum tunnelling
- Resolution limits of electron microscopes
- Resolution limits of microscopes
- Specimen preparation and vacuum requirements
Using Wave-particle duality and the de Broglie wavelength 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.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge