Physics

Physics — Diploma Programme

International Baccalaureate · Ages 16-19

IB Diploma Physics at Standard or Higher Level is a prerequisite for engineering and physical sciences, and is organised around space time and motion, the particulate nature of matter, wave behaviour, fields, and nuclear and quantum physics.

The course is mathematically demanding, and students taking Analysis and Approaches mathematics alongside it are at a clear advantage, particularly at Higher Level where calculus-based treatment appears.

Uncertainty and error analysis run through the whole course and are examined explicitly. The internal assessment investigation is worth 20% and is marked heavily on the quality of data analysis and evaluation rather than on the sophistication of the topic.

Key topics covered

• Space, Time & Motion — Kinematics, forces, momentum, work, energy, power and circular motion.
• Particulate Nature of Matter — Thermal physics, gas laws, kinetic theory and current electricity.
• Wave Behaviour — Wave properties, superposition, standing waves, diffraction and the Doppler effect.
• Fields — Gravitational, electric and magnetic fields, potential and induction.
• Nuclear & Quantum Physics — Radioactivity, mass-energy, fission, fusion and the photoelectric effect.
• Uncertainties & Data Analysis — Error propagation, graphical analysis and evaluating experimental data.
• Internal Assessment — The independent scientific investigation worth 20% of the grade.