Methodology

This list is based on analysis of Pearson Edexcel International A-Level Physics past papers (2019–2024), examiner reports, mark schemes and specification. Topics are ranked by frequency and mark allocation.

Top 10 most frequently tested topics

1. Mechanics (forces and motion)

Evidence: Equations of motion; Newton’s laws; momentum. Examiner reports note working and units.

Covers: kinematics; projectile motion; Newton’s laws; momentum; circular motion.

2. Electricity and circuits

Evidence: Current, voltage, resistance; Kirchhoff. Appears in almost every paper.

Covers: Ohm’s law; power; series and parallel; Kirchhoff’s laws; potential divider.

3. Waves

Evidence: Wave properties; superposition; stationary waves. Examiner reports note phase and path difference.

Covers: wave properties; reflection; refraction; diffraction; interference; stationary waves.

4. Quantum physics and photoelectric effect

Evidence: Photons; photoelectric effect; energy levels. Examiner reports note photon energy.

Covers: photon energy; photoelectric effect; wave-particle duality; energy levels.

5. Gravitational and electric fields

Evidence: Field strength; potential; satellite motion. Examiner reports note g vs G confusion.

Covers: gravitational field; electric field; potential; satellite motion; escape velocity.

6. Capacitance

Evidence: Capacitor charging; energy stored. Examiner reports note exponential and time constant.

Covers: capacitance; energy stored; charging and discharging; time constant.

7. Simple harmonic motion (SHM)

Evidence: SHM equations; pendulum; mass-spring. Examiner reports note a = −ω²x.

Covers: SHM definition; equations; energy; pendulum; mass-spring.

8. Thermal physics

Evidence: Ideal gas; thermodynamics. Examiner reports note PV = nRT and first law.

Covers: kinetic theory; ideal gas; first law of thermodynamics; specific heat capacity.

9. Magnetic fields and electromagnetism

Evidence: Magnetic field; electromagnetic induction; transformers. Examiner reports note Fleming’s rules.

Covers: magnetic flux; Faraday’s law; Lenz’s law; motors; transformers.

10. Radioactivity and nuclear physics

Evidence: Decay; half-life; binding energy. Examiner reports note decay equations.

Covers: alpha, beta, gamma; decay equations; half-life; binding energy; fission and fusion.

Revision priority

Mechanics and electricity carry the most marks. Show working and include units. See common mistakes.

How Tutopiya helps

Tutopiya supports Edexcel International A-Level Physics. Explore A-level resources or book a free trial.

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Sources: Edexcel past papers 2019–2024, examiner reports, specification.

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