A-Level / IA-Level Physics including exams

Establish the rigorous scientific foundations upon which all physics analysis depends. This topic covers the SI system of units and how to use prefixes and unit conversions confidently, the distinction between random and systematic errors, the principles of uncertainty estimation and propagation through calculations, the use of significant figures, and the design of effective experimental procedures. You will learn to evaluate data critically, assess the reliability and validity of measurements, and express results with appropriate precision — skills assessed throughout all three exam papers and essential for practical scientific work at degree level.

Explore the subatomic world through the lens of the Standard Model of particle physics and the quantum theory of electromagnetic radiation. This topic covers the properties of protons, neutrons, and electrons; quarks, leptons, and their classification; the four fundamental forces and their exchange particles; radioactive decay including alpha, beta, and gamma emission; the photoelectric effect as evidence for the photon model of light; wave-particle duality; and de Broglie wavelength. These concepts underpin modern physics and are foundational for university study in physics, engineering, and chemistry.

Develop a deep understanding of wave phenomena across the full electromagnetic spectrum and beyond. This topic covers the nature and properties of progressive waves; transverse and longitudinal waves; the electromagnetic spectrum; wave speed, frequency, and wavelength relationships; polarisation; reflection, refraction, and Snell’s Law; superposition, path difference, and coherence; two-source interference and Young’s double-slit experiment; single-slit diffraction; stationary waves and harmonics; and the evidence that light behaves as a wave. Waves is one of the most heavily examined topics in AQA Physics and appears across all three assessment papers.

Master the classical mechanics that describes the motion and forces acting on objects in the physical world. This topic covers scalars and vectors; moments; kinematics (suvat equations) and graphical analysis of motion; Newton’s three laws of motion; momentum, impulse, and conservation of momentum in collisions; projectile motion; work, energy, and power; conservation of energy; the mechanical properties of materials including tensile stress, tensile strain, the Young modulus, elastic and plastic deformation, and Hooke’s Law. Mechanics forms the backbone of engineering physics and is essential preparation for any degree programme in the physical sciences or engineering.

Develop confident command of electrical circuit theory, from fundamental principles through to practical circuit analysis. This topic covers electric current, potential difference, and resistance; Ohm’s Law; resistivity; I-V characteristics of resistors, filament lamps, thermistors, and diodes; series and parallel circuit rules; Kirchhoff’s first and second laws and their application to complex circuits; electromotive force (emf) and internal resistance; terminal potential difference; potential dividers; and an introduction to the behaviour of capacitors. Electricity is one of the highest-weighted topics in AQA A-Level Physics examinations.

Extend your mechanics knowledge into rotational systems and thermodynamics — two areas of critical importance for engineering and physical sciences. Circular motion topics include angular velocity, centripetal acceleration and force, and their applications in orbital mechanics. Simple harmonic motion (SHM) covers displacement, velocity, acceleration, energy exchanges, forced oscillations, resonance, and damping. Thermal physics develops specific heat capacity, specific latent heat, gas pressure and volume, the ideal gas equation, kinetic theory of gases, and the Boltzmann constant. These topics are heavily mathematical and require confident algebra and calculus-based reasoning.

Engage with the most conceptually rich and mathematically demanding content in the AQA specification. This topic unifies gravitational and electric fields under a common inverse-square-law framework, develops the concept of field strength, potential, and potential energy for both field types, and extends to magnetic flux density, magnetic force on charges and current-carrying conductors, electromagnetic induction, Faraday’s and Lenz’s laws, alternating current theory, transformer operation, and the transmission of electrical power. Fields and Their Consequences is the core of A2 Physics and forms the basis of much of first-year university physics content in electromagnetism and classical field theory.

Complete your core physics knowledge with a study of the nucleus, radioactive processes, and the physics of nuclear energy. This topic covers the Rutherford scattering experiment and the nuclear model of the atom; nuclear radius and density; nuclear stability and the N–Z plot; modes of radioactive decay and their properties; radioactive decay equations; the decay constant and half-life; activity and its measurement; nuclear binding energy and mass defect; nuclear fission and the chain reaction; nuclear fusion and the conditions required in stars and experimental reactors; and the safety and engineering challenges of nuclear power generation. Nuclear physics provides essential context for careers in the energy sector, nuclear medicine, and defence.

Explore the physics of stars, galaxies, and the universe at the largest scales. This option covers the electromagnetic spectrum from radio waves to gamma rays as a tool for astronomical observation; the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram and stellar evolution; the Chandrasekhar limit, neutron stars, and black holes; Hubble’s law and the expanding universe; Olbers’ paradox; the cosmic microwave background radiation; and the evidence for the Big Bang model of cosmology. Astrophysics is the most popular optional topic for AQA Physics candidates and is strongly recommended for students applying to physics or astronomy degrees.

Apply physics principles to the diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions, a specialism of direct relevance to careers in medicine, biomedical engineering, and healthcare technology. This option covers the physics of the eye and vision, including defects and corrections; X-ray production, interaction with matter, and use in imaging; CT scanning; ultrasound and its medical applications; endoscopy and fibre optics; radioactive tracers and PET scanning; and radiation therapy for cancer treatment. Medical physics is an excellent choice for students applying to medicine, medical physics, biomedical engineering, or related health science degrees.

Develop the rotational mechanics, thermodynamic cycles, and material physics knowledge that underpins mechanical and electrical engineering at degree level. This option extends circular motion into rotational dynamics, including moment of inertia, angular momentum, and torque; covers thermodynamic cycles including the Carnot cycle and heat engine efficiency; and develops the properties of materials under stress, including elastic moduli, creep, and material failure. Engineering physics is the recommended option for students applying to mechanical, civil, aerospace, or structural engineering degree programmes.

Explore the historical development of physics through the key conceptual revolutions that changed our understanding of the physical world. This option covers the Michelson-Morley experiment and the overthrow of the aether hypothesis; Einstein’s special theory of relativity and its consequences (time dilation, length contraction, mass-energy equivalence); the discovery of the electron and the determination of its charge-to-mass ratio; the photoelectric effect and the quantum revolution; and wave-particle duality. Turning Points in Physics develops deep conceptual understanding and critical thinking, making it popular with students applying to theoretical physics or history and philosophy of science programmes.

Apply physics principles to the analysis and design of electronic circuits, a specialism directly relevant to electrical engineering, computing, and robotics. This option covers the properties of semiconductors; diodes and transistor operation; operational amplifiers (op-amps) and their applications in signal processing circuits; feedback; and digital logic gates and their physical implementation. Electronics is the recommended option for students applying to electronic engineering, electrical engineering, computer engineering, or robotics degrees.