Edexcel International GCSE Physics (4PH1) develops understanding of physical principles through theory and practical investigation. Two exam papers test both knowledge and application skills.
Forces & motion: speed, acceleration, Newton's laws, stopping distances, momentum, turning effects. Energy: stores and transfers, efficiency, specific heat capacity, specific latent heat. Waves: wave properties, electromagnetic spectrum, light (reflection, refraction, total internal reflection), sound. Electricity: charge, current, voltage, resistance, power, series/parallel circuits, static electricity. Magnetism: magnetic fields, electromagnets, motors, generators, transformers. Nuclear: atomic models, radioactivity, half-life, fission, fusion. Astrophysics: solar system, stellar evolution, red-shift, Big Bang.
Students should be familiar with core practical experiments: investigating acceleration (ramp/trolley), specific heat capacity, refraction through a glass block, IV characteristics of components, electromagnet strength, and radioactive decay simulation. Exam questions test the ability to plan experiments, identify variables, and analyse results.
Paper 1: 2 hours, 110 marks (61.1%). Paper 2: 1 hour 15 min, 70 marks (38.9%). Both papers include MCQs, short-answer, calculations, and extended-writing questions. Calculator allowed on both. Equations are NOT given — students must learn them (about 25 equations).
Yes — unlike some exam boards, Edexcel International GCSE Physics does NOT provide an equation sheet. You must memorise all required equations (approximately 25). Tips: create flashcards, practise using them in calculations regularly, and use mnemonics. The most commonly tested: v = u + at, F = ma, E = mcΔT, V = IR, P = IV, efficiency = useful/total × 100%.
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