Physics
Specification: Pearson-A-Level-Physics
The EDEXCEL A-Level Physics specification covers 13 topics with 0 learning objectives (Pearson-A-Level-Physics). Use the topic browser below to explore subtopics, exam tips, common mistakes, and key terminology for each area of the course.
This subject will help you develop key knowledge and skills required for exam success.
13
Topics
0
Objectives
65
Exam Tips
65
Pitfalls
Key Features
- Master key concepts
- Develop exam technique
- Apply knowledge effectively
About Edexcel A-Level Physics
Edexcel A-Level Physics offers a rigorous linear qualification that develops your understanding of fundamental physical principles alongside essential practical skills. The course is structured around a concept-led approach, guiding you from classical mechanics through to modern physics, including particle physics and astrophysics. Throughout the two-year course, you will build a deep appreciation of how physics explains the universe, from subatomic particles to the motion of galaxies.
The specification is divided into core topics studied in Year 12 and Year 13. In the first year, you explore mechanics, electric circuits, materials, and waves, including the particle nature of light. Year 13 extends these ideas into further mechanics, electric and magnetic fields, nuclear and particle physics, thermodynamics, space, and nuclear radiation. The inclusion of mathematical techniques for physics ensures you are well-prepared for further study or STEM careers.
A distinctive feature of Edexcel A-Level Physics is the emphasis on practical work. You will carry out a series of core practicals throughout the course, leading to a separate Practical Endorsement certificate alongside your A-Level grade. This hands-on approach not only deepens understanding but also develops investigative skills highly valued by universities and employers.
Assessment Structure
The Edexcel A-Level Physics qualification is assessed through three written examination papers at the end of the two-year course. Paper 1 (Advanced Physics I, 1 hour 45 minutes, 90 marks) covers topics from Year 12, Paper 2 (Advanced Physics II, 1 hour 45 minutes, 90 marks) covers Year 13 topics and synoptic elements, and Paper 3 (General and Practical Principles in Physics, 2 hours 30 minutes, 120 marks) assesses practical skills, data analysis, and an optional topic chosen by your school. All papers include a range of question types, including multiple choice, short answer, and extended writing. The total marks across all papers are 300, and there is no coursework component; instead, practical skills are assessed through questions in the written papers and via the teacher-assessed Practical Endorsement, which is reported separately as a pass/fail.
Why Choose Edexcel?
- Edexcel’s clear, concept-led structure helps you build knowledge logically, with mathematical demand integrated throughout, making it ideal if you enjoy a quantitative approach to physics.
- The separate Practical Endorsement allows you to demonstrate hands-on competence without the pressure of coursework contributing to your final grade, yet it is valued by universities as evidence of your laboratory skills.
- An extensive range of high-quality support materials, including endorsed textbooks, online resources, and past papers, makes self-study and revision highly manageable, especially if you like planning your own learning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Assessment Objectives
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of scientific ideas, processes, techniques and procedures
Apply knowledge and understanding of scientific ideas, processes, techniques and procedures: in a theoretical context, in a practical context, when handling qualitative data, when handling quantitative data
Analyse, interpret and evaluate scientific information, ideas and evidence, including in relation to issues, to: make judgements and reach conclusions, develop and refine practical design and procedures
What Gets Top Grades
Knowledge & Understanding
Demonstrates comprehensive and accurate knowledge
- Uses correct subject-specific terminology
- Shows detailed understanding of concepts
- Makes accurate connections between topics
- Demonstrates depth beyond surface-level knowledge
Application
Applies knowledge effectively to new contexts
- Selects relevant knowledge for the question
- Adapts understanding to unfamiliar scenarios
- Uses examples appropriately
- Shows awareness of context
Analysis & Evaluation
Develops sophisticated analytical arguments
- Constructs logical chains of reasoning
- Considers multiple perspectives
- Weighs evidence to reach justified conclusions
- Acknowledges limitations and nuances
Key Command Words
Give a single fact or term
Name, select, or recognise
Set out main features briefly
Give an account of what something is like or what happens
Give reasons with developed cause→effect chains
State similarities AND differences (both required)
Examine in detail showing cause→effect→consequence chains
Weigh up BOTH sides, reach JUSTIFIED conclusion
Make judgments about importance with justification
Show formula→substitution→calculation→answer with units
Common Exam Mistakes
Pitfalls to avoid in your exams
- •Confusing e.m.f. with terminal potential difference
- •Incorrectly applying Ohm's law to non-ohmic components
- •Misinterpreting I-V graphs for non-linear components
- •Errors in deriving or applying series and parallel resistance formulas
- •Incorrect use of units for resistivity and other derived quantities
- •Confusing e.m.f. with terminal potential difference
- •Incorrectly applying Ohm's law to non-ohmic components
- •Misinterpreting I-V graphs for non-linear components
Top Examiner Tips
Expert advice for exam success
- •Ensure all calculations are shown clearly with appropriate units
- •Be prepared to interpret I-V characteristics for non-ohmic components
- •Practice analyzing potential divider circuits with variable resistors
- •Understand the physical models behind resistance changes in thermistors and LDRs
- •Use significant figures appropriately in all calculations
- •Ensure all calculations are shown clearly with appropriate units
- •Be prepared to interpret I-V characteristics for non-ohmic components
- •Practice analyzing potential divider circuits with variable resistors
Specification Topics
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