Physics

Physics

Exam board: Edexcel
Course code:
9PH0

https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-a-levels/physics-2015.html

Entry requirement: Grade 6 in Physics or Grade 7/7 in Combined Sciences and Grade 7 in Mathematics

 

From the fundamental particles such as quarks and leptons which go to make atoms, up to the vastness of galaxies and how the universe has evolved, Physics covers it all. Physics is the study of the natural world covering sizes from thousandths of millionths of metres up to billions of light years. Between these extremes you will find many topics that we use in our daily lives.

Subject Content

The topics that are studied at A Level are:

  1. Working as a physicist
  2. Mechanics
  3. Electric circuits
  4. Materials
  5. Waves and the particle nature of light
  6. Further mechanics
  7. Electric and magnetic fields
  8. Nuclear and particle physics
  9. Thermodynamics
  10. Space
  11. Nuclear radiation
  12. Gravitational fields
  13. Oscillations

Course Assessment

Paper 1

What is assessed: Topics 1, 2, 3, 6, 7 and 8
How it is assessed: written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes, 90 marks, 30% of A Level.
Questions: Multiple-choice, short open, open-response, calculations and extended writing questions.

Paper 2

What is assessed: Topics 1, 4, 5, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13
How it is assessed: Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes, 90 marks, 30% of A Level.
Questions: Multiple-choice, short open, open-response, calculations and extended writing questions.

Paper 3

What is assessed: All topics above plus conceptual and theoretical understanding of experimental methods and practical skills from the core practical work.
How it is assessed: Written exam: 2 hours 30 minutes, 120 marks, 40% of A Level.
Questions: Multiple-choice, short open, open-response, calculations and extended writing questions. This paper will include synoptic questions.

Higher Education and Careers

Anyone considering a Physics related career should bear in mind that mathematics is required for such degrees. The range of opportunities for a good physicist include healthcare, engineering, material science, meteorology, quality control and forensics, aeronautics and space science, electronics and computing and the financial sector. See the following website: https://www.iop.org/careers-physics