Physics GCSE
extension
What extension means in Physics GCSE, as defined for AQA, OCR.
Definitions of extension
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain extension in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
The stretched length minus the original unstretched length, so a spring 30 mm long that becomes 50 mm long has an extension of 20 mm.
Calculated by subtracting the original unstretched length from the new length measured after each weight is added.
The change in length, calculated as the final length minus the original length, rather than the total length.
Length in metres that must be squared before substituting into the equation.
Topics that use extension
- Forces and elasticity (AQA GCSE)
- Forces in action (OCR GCSE)
Related terms
- elastic deformation
- Elastic limit
- Elastic potential energy
- spring constant
- Area under a force–extension graph
- Clockwise and anticlockwise rotation
- Constant versus changing ratio
- direct proportionality
Using extension 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 GCSE termsA week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge