Edexcel AS Physics specification (8PH0)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Edexcel AS Physics exam. It lays out exactly what you need to learn, how you'll be assessed, and what skills the examiners seek. Whether you're working through the course for the first time or revising for your final exams, the specification helps you stay focused and confident in your preparation.
We've included helpful revision tools to support you in putting the specification into practice. Wherever you're starting from, you'll find everything you need to feel prepared, from the official specification to high-quality resources designed to help you succeed.
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In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official Edexcel AS Physics specification, along with a breakdown of key topics, assessment structure, and useful study resources. We've also included links to topic-level guides and revision tools to help you put the specification into practice.
Contents
Disclaimer
This page includes a summary of the official Edexcel AS Physics (8PH0) specification, provided to support your revision. While we've made every effort to ensure accuracy, Save My Exams is not affiliated with the awarding body.
For the most complete and up-to-date information, we strongly recommend consulting the official Edexcel specification PDF.
Specification overview
The Pearson Edexcel AS Level in Physics provides learners with a solid foundation in classical and modern physics, emphasising conceptual understanding and mathematical modelling. The course nurtures curiosity about the physical world and supports the development of analytical and practical skills. It prepares students for further scientific study by linking theoretical content with experimental investigation and real-world application. The specification integrates practical work into learning and encourages critical thinking and scientific communication.Subject content breakdown
Topic 1: Working as a physicist
- Use of models, physical quantities, SI units, and measurements
- Uncertainties and data analysis
- Scientific communication and application of knowledge
Topic 2: Mechanics
- Motion in one and two dimensions
- Newton’s laws and momentum
- Work, energy, and power
- Conservation laws and projectile motion
Topic 3: Electric circuits
- Current, potential difference, resistance
- Ohm’s law and non-ohmic behaviour
- Series and parallel circuits
- Internal resistance and EMF
Topic 4: Materials
- Density, stress, strain and Young modulus
- Elastic and plastic deformation
- Force-extension graphs and energy stored
Topic 5: Waves and the particle nature of light
- Wave properties: reflection, refraction, diffraction, interference
- Wave-particle duality and photoelectric effect
- Electromagnetic spectrum and applications
Core practicals (AS)
- Six required practicals embedded across topics:
- Determining acceleration, resistivity, EMF, Young modulus, speed of sound, and light intensity
- Assessed through written papers (no separate practical exam)
Assessment structure
Paper 1: Core physics I
- 1 hour 30 minutes, 80 marks
- Topics 1–4 (Working as a physicist, Mechanics, Electric circuits, Materials)
- Mixture of multiple-choice, short and extended answer questions
- Includes assessment of practical skills
- Worth 50% of AS Level
Paper 2: Core physics II
- 1 hour 30 minutes, 80 marks
- Topics 1 and 5 (Working as a physicist, Waves and particle nature of light)
- Mixture of multiple-choice, short and extended answer questions
- Includes synoptic and practical-based questions
- Worth 50% of AS Level
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Edexcel AS Physics isn't just about how much you study, but how you study. Here are a few proven tips to help you stay on track
- Start with a clear plan: Break the subject into topics and create a revision schedule that allows enough time for each. Start early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Focus on understanding, not memorising: Use our revision notes to build a strong foundation in each topic, making sure you actually understand the material.
- Practise regularly: Attempt past papers to familiarise yourself with the exam format and timing. Mark your answers to see how close you are to full marks.
- Be strategic with your revision: Use exam questions by topic to focus on weaker areas, and flashcards to reinforce important facts and terminology.
- Learn from mistakes: Whether it's from mock exams or practice questions, spend time reviewing what went wrong and why. This helps prevent repeat mistakes in the real exam.
- Stay balanced: Don't forget to take regular breaks, eat well, and get enough sleep, a healthy routine makes revision much more effective.
With the right approach and consistent practice, you'll build confidence and improve your chances of exam success.
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