What Is IB Physics? Overview for Students

Key Takeaways

• IB Physics explores how the universe works, from tiny particles to massive galaxies

• You'll study five main themes: motion, matter, waves, fields, and nuclear physics

• The course is available at Standard Level (150 hours) or Higher Level (240 hours)

• Assessment includes exams, practical work, and an individual investigation

• Strong maths skills help, but you don't need to be a genius to succeed

• Physics opens doors to careers in engineering, medicine, research, and technology

Introduction: Why Choose IB Physics?

Thinking about taking IB Physics? You're considering one of the most exciting subjects in the IB Diploma Programme.

Physics isn't just about memorising equations. It's about understanding how everything around you works. Why does your phone screen respond to your touch? How do aeroplanes stay in the air? What makes stars shine?

IB Physics gives you the tools to answer these questions. You'll develop problem-solving skills that universities and employers love. Plus, you'll join a global community of students exploring the fundamental laws of nature.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know: what you'll learn, how you'll be assessed, and whether IB Physics is the right choice for you.

What You'll Learn in IB Physics

Core Topics (SL and HL)

IB Physics is organised into five major themes that connect throughout the course. Every student studies these core areas:

A. Space, time and motion – How objects move and interact. You'll explore kinematics, forces, momentum, energy, and even Einstein's special relativity at HL.

B. The particulate nature of matter – Understanding matter at the molecular level. This covers thermal energy, the greenhouse effect, gas laws, and electrical circuits.

C. Wave behaviour – How waves transfer energy. You'll study simple harmonic motion, wave properties, interference, diffraction, and the Doppler effect.

D. Fields – Investigating gravitational, electric, and magnetic fields. You'll learn how these invisible forces shape the universe.

E. Nuclear and quantum physics – Exploring atoms, radioactivity, nuclear reactions, and the bizarre world of quantum mechanics.

Each theme builds on the others, helping you see physics as an interconnected web of ideas rather than isolated topics.

Want to dive deeper into specific topics? Check out our comprehensive IB Physics topics guide for detailed breakdowns.

Additional HL Topics

If you choose Higher Level Physics, you'll study the same five themes but in much greater depth.

HL students explore additional content, including:

• Rigid body mechanics

• Galilean and special relativity

• Thermodynamics

• Electromagnetic induction

• Quantum physics

The extra depth means you'll tackle more complex problems and develop a deeper understanding of how physics principles apply in real-world situations.

How IB Physics Is Assessed

External Assessment

Your final grade comes primarily from written exams taken at the end of the course.

Paper 1: Multiple choice and data analysis

• Duration: 1.5 hours (SL) or 2 hours (HL)

• Weighting: 36% of final grade

• Part A tests your understanding with multiple-choice questions

• Part B challenges you to analyse experimental data and draw conclusions

Paper 2: Short and long-answer questions

• Duration: 1.5 hours (SL) or 2.5 hours (HL)

• Weighting: 44% of final grade

• Questions cover all core topics

• You'll need to show your working, explain concepts, and solve complex problems

• HL students face additional questions on their extended content

Both papers test your knowledge, application, and analytical skills. You'll have access to a data booklet with useful equations and constants.

Internal Assessment (IA)

The Internal Assessment is your chance to become a real physicist.

• Weighting: 20% of final grade

• You'll design, conduct, and write up your own scientific investigation

• Choose a research question that interests you

• Collect and analyse data using proper experimental techniques

• Evaluate your method and suggest improvements

The IA is marked by your teacher using four criteria: research design, data analysis, conclusion, and evaluation. It's worth spending time on this – good planning and clear communication can earn you top marks.

What's the Difference Between SL and HL in IB Physics?

Choosing between Standard Level and Higher Level is a big decision. Here's what sets them apart:

Teaching hours

• SL: approximately 150 hours

• HL: approximately 240 hours

Content depth SL covers the fundamentals across all five themes. HL students study the same themes but explore additional concepts and tackle problems requiring more sophisticated mathematical reasoning.

Assessment Both levels have the same assessment structure (Papers 1, 2, and the IA), but HL exams are longer and include more challenging questions.

Who should choose which?

Consider SL if you want a solid understanding of physics without overwhelming depth. It's perfect if physics isn't your main focus at university.

Choose HL if you're planning to study physics, engineering, or another science at university. Many competitive courses require or strongly prefer HL Physics. The extra challenge prepares you brilliantly for university-level science.

Is IB Physics Hard? Honest Perspective

Let's be honest: IB Physics has a reputation for being challenging. But "hard" doesn't mean impossible.

The main challenges include:

• Maths skills – You'll need to manipulate equations, work with graphs, and understand exponential functions

• Abstract thinking – Concepts like fields and quantum mechanics require you to visualise things you can't see

• Lab work – Designing experiments and analysing uncertainties takes practice

However, thousands of students successfully complete IB Physics every year. According to (opens in a new tab)IB May 2024 statistics (opens in a new tab), approximately 80% of students pass IB Physics, with many achieving strong grades.

The key to success? Start strong, stay organised, and don't be afraid to ask for help. Save My Exams provides comprehensive revision resources, practice questions, and expert guidance to support you every step of the way.

Want more insight into the difficulty level? Read our dedicated article: (opens in a new tab)Is IB Physics Hard?

Skills You'll Develop in IB Physics

Problem Solving and Mathematical Reasoning

Physics teaches you to break down complex problems into manageable steps. You'll learn to identify relevant information, select appropriate equations, and work systematically towards solutions.

These analytical skills transfer to countless other situations, from planning projects to making informed decisions.

Experimental Design and Data Interpretation

Through practical work, you'll develop skills that professional scientists use daily:

• Designing fair tests with controlled variables

• Using equipment accurately and safely

• Collecting reliable data

• Analysing results and quantifying uncertainties

• Evaluating experimental methods

Scientific Communication and Critical Thinking

Physics isn't just about getting the right answer. You'll learn to:

• Explain complex ideas clearly

• Justify your reasoning with evidence

• Evaluate scientific claims critically

• Present findings in written reports and diagrams

These communication skills are invaluable in any career. Employers across all sectors value people who can think logically and express ideas effectively.

What Can You Do With IB Physics After School?

IB Physics opens doors to exciting opportunities worldwide.

University Courses

Physics HL is required or highly recommended for:

• Physics and astronomy degrees

• All branches of engineering (mechanical, electrical, aerospace, civil)

• Medicine and biomedical sciences

• Architecture

• Computer science

• Mathematics

Even if you take SL, you'll have demonstrated strong analytical skills that universities value.

Career Pathways

Physics graduates work in diverse fields:

• Research and development

• Technology and software

• Healthcare and medical physics

• Renewable energy and environmental science

• Finance and data analysis

• Education and science communication

• Aerospace and defence

Global Recognition

The IB Diploma is respected worldwide. Universities in the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and across Europe recognise IB Physics as excellent preparation for higher education.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be good at maths to take IB Physics?

You don't need to be a maths genius, but confidence with numbers definitely helps.

IB Physics uses mathematical concepts like algebra, trigonometry, logarithms, and graph analysis. If you're comfortable with GCSE/MYP maths, you have the foundation you need.

The good news? Physics actually helps improve your maths skills. You'll see how mathematical concepts apply to real situations, making abstract ideas more concrete.

Should I take IB Physics at HL or SL?

Ask yourself these questions:

• Do you plan to study a science or engineering subject at university?

• Do you enjoy solving challenging problems?

• Are your maths skills strong?

• Can you commit significant time to studying?

If you answered "yes" to most of these, HL Physics might be right for you.

If you want a solid physics education without the extra intensity, or if physics isn't central to your future plans, SL is an excellent choice.

Remember: universities care more about your overall IB score than whether every subject is HL. Choose a combination that plays to your strengths.

What kind of experiments will I do in the course?

You'll experience a wide variety of practical activities:

• Measuring the acceleration due to gravity

• Investigating how springs extend under force

• Analysing electrical circuits

• Studying wave interference patterns

• Determining the specific heat capacity of materials

• Observing radioactive decay (using simulations)

For your IA, you'll design your own investigation. Past students have explored topics like:

• How does temperature affect the bounce height of a ball?

• What factors influence the range of a projectile?

• How does the concentration of a solution affect its refractive index?

The practical work makes physics come alive and helps you understand concepts more deeply than theory alone ever could.

Final Thoughts

IB Physics is challenging, rewarding, and fascinating in equal measure. It's a subject that makes you question how the universe works. You'll develop skills that last a lifetime: problem-solving, critical thinking, and the confidence to tackle complex challenges. Plus, you'll open doors to exciting careers in science, engineering, technology, and beyond.

Success doesn't come from being naturally brilliant. It comes from curiosity, support, and good study habits. And those are things you can absolutely develop.

At Save My Exams, we have all the tools you need to support your learning, including:

• Practice exam papers organised by course for easy access

• Revision notes covering the entire course, including examiner tips and tricks to help you ace your exams

• Exam questions arranged by topic with student-friendly model answers, mark scheme guidance and question-based examiner tips and tricks to help you understand exactly what examiners are looking for

• Target tests that pinpoint your weak areas and turn them into strengths, with personalised, exam-style tests built just for you

• Mock exams that allow you to replicate the full exam experience. Smart, focused exam practice, making sure you’re ready for anything

Ready to start your physics journey? Check out our IB Physics revision resources to give yourself the best chance of success.

References

• IB Physics Topics: Full List

• IB Diploma Programme Physics guide (first assessment 2025) (opens in a new tab)

• IB Diploma Programme Statistical Bulletin - May 2024 (opens in a new tab)