Physics GCSE
compression and expansion
What compression and expansion means in Physics GCSE, as defined for AQA.
Definition of compression and expansion
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain compression and expansion in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
A gas is compressed into a smaller volume when the pressure on it is increased, and expands when the pressure is lowered.
Topics that use compression and expansion
- Pressure in gases (physics only) (AQA GCSE)
Related terms
- collision frequency
- consistent units
- constant temperature
- force at right angles
- force per unit area
- particle model
- fixed mass of gas
- inverse proportion
Using compression and expansion in the exam
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