A Level Physics Topics by Exam Board: Full List

A Level Physics builds on concepts from GCSE and introduces you to a wider and deeper understanding of how the universe works, from the smallest particles to the largest structures. But with so many new topics, equations and practical skills to cover, it’s easy to feel a bit overwhelmed

Over the years, I’ve seen students get lost in the detail, unsure how the content connects, how it builds on what they’ve already learned, or what really matters when it comes to revision. Whether you're just starting the course or getting ready for exams, having a clear overview can make all the difference.

Across all exam boards, A Level Physics content is broadly divided into fundamental topics like mechanics, waves, and electricity, and more advanced fields such as nuclear physics, astrophysics, and particle physics. 

This article gives you the clarity you need. It breaks down how AQA, Edexcel and OCR structure their courses, and links to Save My Exams trusted, exam-specific revision resources to help you feel more in control.

AQA A Level Physics Topics

AQA A Level Physics is divided into eight core sections, with a choice of one out of five optional topics:

Core sections:

1. Measurements and their errors

2. Particles and radiation

3. Waves

4. Mechanics and materials

5. Electricity

6. Further mechanics and thermal physics

7. Fields and their consequences

8. Nuclear physics

Optional topics:

9. Astrophysics

10. Medical Physics

11. Engineering Physics,

12. Turning points

13. Electronics

1.Measurements and their errors

This section focuses on how to measure physical quantities with accuracy and consistency. You’ll work with SI units, standard prefixes, and methods to reduce and account for experimental error. Estimating values and handling uncertainties will underpin your practical work throughout the course.

Topics include:

• Use of SI units and their prefixes

• Limitations of physical measurements

• Estimation of physical quantities

2.Particles and radiation

In this section, you’ll dive into the structure of atoms, from protons and neutrons to quarks and leptons. You’ll study particle interactions, the role of exchange particles, and how antimatter fits into the bigger picture. The photoelectric effect and wave-particle duality are also introduced, marking the start of your journey into quantum physics.

Topics include:

• Constituents of the atom

• Stable and unstable nuclei

• Particle interactions

• Classification of particles

• The photoelectric effect

• Wave-particle duality

3.Waves

GCSE studies of wave behaviour are extended in this topic through a deeper look at the properties and applications of both travelling and stationary waves. You’ll learn how waves interact through refraction, diffraction, superposition, and interference, and explore how these phenomena apply to light, sound, and other types of waves.

Topics include:

• Progressive and stationary waves

• Longitudinal and transverse waves

• Refraction, diffraction, and interference

4.Mechanics and materials

This topic begins with an introduction to vectors and builds your understanding of forces, energy, and momentum. It then moves on to explore the properties of materials, including their strength, elasticity, and how they respond to stress.

Topics include:

• Scalars and vectors

• Moments

• Motion along a straight line

• Projectile motion

• Newton’s laws of motion

• Momentum

• Work, energy and power

• Conservation of energy

• Bulk properties of solids

• The Young modulus

5. Electricity

This section builds on GCSE knowledge of electric circuits and explores them in greater depth. You’ll learn how current, potential difference, and resistance are related in ohmic and non-ohmic components. You’ll explore complex circuits, including internal resistance and the use of potential dividers in sensing systems.

Topics include:

• Basics of electricity

• Current–voltage characteristics

• Resistivity

• Circuits

• Potential divider

• Electromotive force and internal resistance

6.Further mechanics and thermal physics

This section is divided into two parts: Section 6.1 Periodic motion and Section 6.2 Thermal physics.

Section 6.1 focuses on periodic motion, including circular motion and simple harmonic motion (SHM). You’ll study systems such as springs and pendulums, and learn how to analyse their oscillations, energy transfers, and resonance effects. 

Section 6.2 develops your understanding of heat, temperature, and internal energy. You’ll explore thermal energy transfers, apply the gas laws, and use molecular kinetic theory to describe the behaviour of ideal gases. 

Topics include:

• Circular motion

• Simple harmonic motion (SHM)

• Forced vibrations and resonance

• Thermal energy transfer

• Ideal gases

• Molecular kinetic theory model

7.Fields and their consequences

This section unifies different types of fields (gravitational, electric, and magnetic) through common principles. You’ll explore how forces act at a distance, the energy associated with fields, and how fields influence the motion of masses and charges.

The topic also looks at practical applications such as capacitors, induction, and transformers, highlighting the significance of these fields in real-world systems, such as power transmission.

Topics include:

• Fields

• Gravitational fields

• Electric fields

• Capacitance

• Magnetic fields

• Electromagnetic induction

• Alternating currents

• The operation of a transformer

8.Nuclear physics

This section builds on section 2, Particles and radiation, and explores the internal structure of atomic nuclei. You’ll study different types of radiation, nuclear reactions, and how mass is converted into energy in nuclear processes, such as fission and fusion.

You will develop an understanding of the physics behind nuclear energy production, as well as its wider implications and impact on society.

Topics include:

• Rutherford scattering

• α, β and γ radiation

• Radioactive decay

• Nuclear instability

• Mass and energy

• Induced fission

• Safety aspects

9.Astrophysics (optional topic)

This section applies physics to the universe beyond Earth. You’ll study how telescopes work, how stars are classified, and how their properties are determined using physical laws. The topic explores the life cycles of stars from formation to death, including the extreme conditions of supernovae, neutron stars, and black holes.

You’ll also look at evidence for the expanding universe and study cosmology through redshift, Hubble’s law, and the Big Bang theory.

Topics include:

• Telescopes

• Classification of stars using the Hertzsprung–Russell diagram

• Physics of stellar evolution

• Supernovae, neutron stars and black holes

• Cosmology

10.Medical physics (optional topic)

This section explores how physics is used in medical imaging and treatment. You’ll study how lenses are used to correct vision, how X-rays and ultrasound produce diagnostic images, and how radioactive tracers and gamma cameras are used in nuclear medicine.

Topics include:

• Physics of the eye

• Physics of the ear

• Biological measurement

• X-ray imaging

• Radionuclide imaging and therapy

11.Engineering physics (optional topic)

This section focuses on applying physics principles to rotating systems and engineering contexts. You’ll study rotational motion, the laws of thermodynamics, and applications of engines in the real world.

Topics include:

• Rotational dynamics, torque and momentum

• The first law of thermodynamics

• Engine cycles

• Second law of thermodynamics and engines

12.Turning points in physics (optional topic)

This section covers the experiments and discoveries that led to quantum theory and modern physics. You’ll study the discovery of the electron, the photoelectric effect, wave-particle duality, and how Einstein’s theory of special relativity emerged.

Topics include:

• The discovery of the electron

• Wave–particle duality

• Special relativity

13.Electronics (optional topic)

This section introduces the fundamentals of analogue and digital circuits. You’ll study a range of individual components and explore both analogue and digital systems, from operational amplifiers to digital signal processing. You will also look at the key issues in data communication.

Topics include:

• Discrete semiconductor devices

• Analogue and digital signals

• Analogue signal processing

• Operational amplifiers

• Digital signal processing

• Data communication systems

What is Covered in AQA A Level Physics Paper 1, 2 & 3?

Paper 1

• 50% of your final mark

• Covers sections 1 to 5 and 6.1 (periodic motion)

Paper 2

• 34% of your final mark

• Covers sections 6.2 (thermal physics), 7 and 8

Paper 3

• 32% of your final mark

• Section A covers practical skills and data analysis

• Section B covers one of sections 9 to 13

Revision Resources for AQA A Level Physics

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OCR A Level Physics Topics

OCR A Level Physics is divided into six teaching modules:

• Module 1 – Development of practical skills in physics

• Module 2 – Foundations of physics

• Module 3 – Forces and motion

• Module 4 – Electrons, waves and photons

• Module 5 – Newtonian world and astrophysics

• Module 6 – Particles and medical physics

Module 1 – Development of practical skills in physics

Physics is an experimental subject at its core, and this module helps you develop the practical skills that support everything you’ll do throughout the A Level course. You’ll learn how to plan experiments, take accurate measurements, analyse data, and evaluate results.

Module 1 is divided into two parts:

• Section 1.1 focuses on the practical skills that are assessed in the written exams. You’ll learn how to design investigations, process data, draw graphs, and interpret your results, both in familiar and unfamiliar contexts.

• Section 1.2 is assessed through the Practical Endorsement, which runs alongside the course. You’ll complete a series of practical activities where you’ll use apparatus, take measurements, and show that you can carry out experiments confidently and accurately.

Together, these two sections help you build a strong foundation in experimental science, giving you the tools to succeed in both exams and hands-on work.

Module 2 – Foundations of Physics

This module introduces the fundamental conventions and concepts that underpin the entire course. You'll learn how physicists define and use physical quantities, SI units, and vector and scalar quantities to communicate ideas clearly and precisely. It also covers how to make measurements, analyse data, and handle uncertainties, skills that are essential for both theory and practical work throughout the A Level.

Topics include:

• Physical quantities and units

• Making measurements and analysing data

• Nature of quantities

Module 3 – Forces and Motion

This module explores how forces influence the motion and shape of objects. You'll learn how to model and analyse motion in one and two dimensions using mathematical techniques, apply Newton’s laws to various scenarios, and investigate how forces result in energy transfer and deformation.

It also develops your understanding of materials through topics like density, stress, strain, and the Young modulus, alongside the conservation of momentum and the physics of collisions. This module underpins many real-world applications and supports the development of both conceptual and practical skills.

Topics include:

• Motion

• Forces in action

• Work, energy and power

• Materials

• Newton’s laws of motion and momentum

Module 4 – Electrons, Waves and Photons

This module introduces the key ideas of quantum physics, starting with a foundation in electricity and wave behaviour. You’ll study electric charge, current, and resistance, as well as wave properties like diffraction and interference. These topics set the stage for understanding the dual wave–particle nature of light and matter, which forms the basis of quantum theory.

Before exploring quantum effects in depth, you’ll build your understanding of electrical circuits and electromagnetic waves. This module also encourages you to reflect on how quantum physics developed historically and the role of experiments in validating scientific ideas.

Topics include:

• Charge and current

• Energy, power and resistance

• Electrical circuits

• Waves

• Quantum physics

Module 5 – Newtonian world and astrophysics

This module demonstrates how Newton’s laws of motion continue to explain the physical world, from the microscopic motion of particles in gases to the large-scale movement of planets and galaxies. You’ll explore how models based on Newtonian mechanics help us understand thermal physics, circular motion, and oscillations.

The final section broadens your view to astrophysics and cosmology, using electromagnetic observations to explore the life cycles of stars and the expansion of the universe. The module highlights the importance of observation and evidence in shaping scientific models over time.

Topics include:

• Thermal physics

• Circular motion

• Oscillations

• Gravitational fields

• Astrophysics and cosmology

Module 6 – Particles and medical physics

This module brings together advanced topics in electricity, fields, and nuclear physics, and introduces students to applications in medicine. You’ll explore how capacitors store and discharge energy, how electric and magnetic fields influence charged particles, and the principles of electromagnetism.

In the final sections, you’ll focus on nuclear structure, radioactivity, and how fundamental particles interact. You’ll also study the physics behind medical imaging technologies, such as X-rays and PET scans.

Topics include:

• Capacitors

• Electric fields

• Electromagnetism

• Nuclear and particle physics

• Medical imaging

What is Covered in OCR A Level Physics exams?

Modelling physics

• 37% of your final mark

• Covers modules 1, 2, 3 and 5

Exploring physics

• 37% of your final mark

• Covers modules 1, 2, 4 and 6

Unified physics

• 26% of your final mark

• Covers all modules (1 to 6)

Revision Resources for OCR A Level Physics

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Edexcel A Level Physics Topics

Edexcel A Level Physics is organised into thirteen topics:

1. Working as a Physicist

2. Mechanics

3. Electric Circuits

4. Materials

5. Waves and Particle Nature of Light

6. Further Mechanics

7. Electric and Magnetic Fields

8. Nuclear and Particle Physics

9. Thermodynamics

10. Space

11. Nuclear Radiation

12. Gravitational Fields

13. Oscillations

Topic 1 – Working as a Physicist

Physics relies on precise measurement, critical thinking, and evidence-based reasoning. This topic develops your understanding of how physicists work, including how they use data, design experiments, and evaluate claims.

Topics include:

• Base and derived quantities, SI units

• Practical skills

• Estimating values and considering measurement limits

• Communicating scientific ideas

• The role of science in society and ethical considerations

• Scientific community and peer review processes

Topic 2 – Mechanics

This topic introduces the fundamental principles that govern motion and forces. You’ll learn how to describe and analyse movement, apply Newton’s laws, and understand energy transformations.

Topics include:

• Kinematic equations

• Kinematics and motion graphs

• Scalars and vectors

• Newton’s laws

• Momentum

• Work, energy and power

• Moments and equilibrium

• Conservation of energy

Topic 3 – Electric Circuits

In this topic, you’ll explore how electric currents behave in different circuits, including how resistance changes and how energy is transferred.

Topics include:

• Current, potential difference, and resistance

• Ohm’s law and non-ohmic components

• Series and parallel circuits

• Electrical power and energy

• Resistivity

• Potential dividers

• EMF and internal resistance

Topic 4 – Materials

This topic covers the mechanical behaviour of solids, including deformation, stress and strain, and the properties of materials used in real-world applications.

Topics include:

• Density and upthrust

• Viscous drag (Stokes' Law)

• Hooke’s law

• Stress-strain and Young modulus

• Elastic strain energy

Topic 5 – Waves and Particle Nature of Light

In this topic, you’ll study the properties of waves, including light and sound, and discover how quantum theory helps explain phenomena like the photoelectric effect.

Topics include:

• Longitudinal and transverse waves

• Superposition and interference

• Refraction, reflection, and diffraction

• Standing/stationary waves

• Lenses and ray diagrams

• Diffraction

• The de Broglie equation

• Photoelectric effect 

Topic 6 – Further Mechanics

This topic builds on the earlier mechanics topic by exploring momentum, collisions in two dimensions, and circular motion, which are useful in many real-world and particle physics contexts.

Topics include:

• Impulse and momentum

• Angular velocity and displacement

• Centripetal acceleration and force

Topic 7 – Electric and Magnetic Fields

This topic explores how charges interact through fields, both static and changing, and how this leads to technologies such as capacitors and motors.

Topics include:

• Electric fields and potentials

• Coulomb’s law and field strength

• Capacitors and energy storage

• Magnetic fields and forces on charges

• Electromagnetic induction and Lenz's law

• RMS values and AC theory

Topic 8 – Nuclear and Particle Physics

This topic investigates the smallest components of matter and the forces that govern them. You’ll examine the standard model and particle interactions.

Topics include:

• Atomic structure and the nuclear model of the atom

• Particle accelerators and detectors

• Quarks, leptons, and antiparticles

• Mass-energy equivalence

• The standard model

• Particle conservation laws

Topic 9 – Thermodynamics

In this topic, you’ll explore the concepts of heat, internal energy, and how temperature relates to particle behaviour.

Topics include:

• Specific heat capacity and latent heat

• Internal energy and temperature

• Kinetic theory and ideal gases

• Black body radiation and Stefan-Boltzmann law

• Wien’s law

Topic 10 – Space

This topic introduces key concepts in astrophysics, including how we study stars, measure astronomical distances, and interpret radiation from space.

Topics include:

• Luminosity and intensity

• Parallax and standard candles

• Hertzsprung–Russell diagram and stellar evolution

• Redshift, Doppler effect, and Hubble’s law

• The expanding universe and dark matter debate

Topic 11 – Nuclear Radiation

This topic explores how unstable nuclei undergo radioactive decay and how the properties of alpha, beta, and gamma radiation differ. You’ll also study nuclear binding energy, exponential decay laws, and how to analyse half-life and activity.

Topics include:

• Nuclear binding energy and mass deficit

• Fusion and fission

• Background radiation and shielding

• Alpha, beta and gamma radiation

• Half-life and decay equations

Topic 12 – Gravitational Fields

In this topic, you’ll study how masses interact through gravitational forces and how these forces can be described using fields and potentials. You’ll learn to calculate gravitational field strength, potential, and energy, and explore how these ideas relate to motion under gravity.

Topics include:

• Newton’s law of gravitation

• Gravitational field strength and potential

• Orbital motion

• Comparisons to electric fields

Topic 13 – Oscillations

In this topic, you’ll explore simple harmonic motion (SHM), resonance, damping, and how these concepts relate to mechanical systems and structures.

Topics include:

• SHM conditions and equations

• Free and forced oscillations

• Damping and resonance

What is Covered in Edexcel A Level Physics Paper 1, 2 & 3?

Paper 1: Advanced Physics I

• 30% of your final mark

• Covers topics:

  • Working as a Physicist

  • Mechanics

  • Electric Circuits

  • Further Mechanics

  • Electric and Magnetic Fields

  • Nuclear and Particle Physics 

Paper 2: Advanced Physics II

• 30% of your final mark

• Covers topics:

  • Working as a Physicist

  • Materials

  • Waves and Particle Nature of Light

  • Thermodynamics

  • Space

  • Nuclear Radiation

  • Gravitational Fields

  • Oscillations

Paper 3: General and Practical Principles in Physics

• 40% of your final mark

• Covers all topics

Revision Resources for Edexcel A Level Physics

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References

AQA A Level Physics Specification

OCR A Level Physics Specification

Edexcel A Level Physics Specification