GCSE Physics

GCSE Physics explores the fundamental principles governing the physical world. The curriculum typically covers eight core subject areas, assessed through two exam papers. Common exam boards include AQA, Edexcel, WJEC, and CCEA.

Energy

This topic delves into the concept of energy stores, transfers, and transformations. Students learn about different forms of energy, including kinetic, potential, thermal, and chemical energy. Key concepts include energy conservation, dissipation, and the calculation of energy changes.

Electricity

This section covers the principles of electricity, including current, voltage, resistance, and circuits. Students explore both direct and alternating current, and learn about mains electricity and electrical safety. Topics such as static electricity, electric fields, and basic circuit analysis are also included.

Forces

This topic examines the nature of forces and their effects on motion. Students learn about contact and non-contact forces, including friction, air resistance, gravity, and magnetism. Key concepts include Newton's laws of motion, resultant forces, and vector representation of forces.

Waves

This section explores the properties of waves, including transverse and longitudinal waves. Students learn about wave phenomena such as reflection, refraction, diffraction, and interference. Sound waves and electromagnetic waves are also studied.

Magnetism and Electromagnetism

This topic investigates the relationship between electricity and magnetism. Students learn about magnetic fields, electromagnets, and electromagnetic induction. The applications of electromagnetism in motors, generators, and transformers are also explored.

Space Physics

This section covers topics related to the solar system, stars, and the universe. Students learn about the life cycle of stars, orbital motion, and the concepts of red-shift and the expanding universe.