focal length
What focal length means in Physics GCSE, as defined for AQA.
Definition of focal length
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain focal length in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
The distance from the lens to the principal focus, measured from the centre of the lens to the principal focus.
Topics that use focal length
- Lenses (physics only) (AQA GCSE)
Related terms
- always virtual
- arrowheads in or out
- converging and diverging
- diverging lens
- dotted projections
- magnifying glass
- matched comparison
- real image
Using focal length in the exam
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