Physics GCSE
penetration
What penetration means in Physics GCSE, as defined for AQA.
Definition of penetration
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain penetration in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
The extent to which alpha particles, beta particles and gamma rays pass through materials, such as paper, skin, aluminium, lead or concrete.
Topics that use penetration
- Radioactive decay and nuclear radiation (AQA GCSE)
Related terms
- activity
- background radiation
- choosing a half-life
- gamma ray
- independence from conditions
- ionising power
- neutron emission
- randomness
Using penetration in the exam
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