Courses / A-level / A-level Physics

A-level Physics

Edexcel
Physics has long been thought of as the most fundamental of all sciences, with studies ranging in scale from massive objects such as galaxies to studying the tiniest particles. A-Level Physics teaches it all
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A-level Physics Edexcel online course

Do you know how mobile phones work? How do we walk without slipping? How do we hear things through earphones? Our A-level Physics online course is more than just black holes and the atmosphere; it examines all the invisible forces that govern our world, providing answers to puzzling questions.

In this engaging A-level Physics online course, you’ll cover everything from Newton’s law of gravity to the frequency of electromagnetic waves and the orbits of planets. You’ll learn how physical science contributes to society and functions in the world around us. Physics as a subject is highly respected by employers and offers ample career opportunities.

What you will learn

  1. Unit 1 - Working as a Physicist

    • Motion & acceleration
    • Constant speed or velocity equation 
    • Mass & weight
    • Waves
    • Basic atomic structure

  2. Unit 2 - Mechanics

    • Scalars and vectors
    • Moments
    • Straight line motion
    • Projectile motion
    • Newton’s Laws of Motion
    • Momentum
    • Work, energy, and power

  3. Unit 3 - Electric Circuits

    • Current electricity
    • Electrical components, including conductors and insulators
    • Resistance and resistivity
    • Electromotive force
    • Circuit calculations

  4. Unit 4 - Materials

    • Density
    • Comparing springs using Hooke’s law
    • Stress & strain

  5. Unit 5 - Waves and the Particulate Nature of Light

    • Progressive and stationary waves
    • Refraction, diffraction, and interference
    • Total internal reflection
    • Spectra

  6. Unit 6 - Further Mechanics and Oscillations

    • Periodic motion
    • Simple harmonic motion
    • Simple harmonic systems
    • Forced vibrations and resonance

  7. Unit 7 - Electric and Magnetic Fields

    • Coulomb’s Law
    • Field patterns
    • Electric field strength
    • Capacitance
    • Energy storage
    • Charge and discharge
    • Dielectrics
    • Magnetic field patterns & flux density
    • Electromagnetic induction
    • Faraday’s & Lenz’s laws
    • Transformers

  8. Unit 8 - Nuclear and Particle Physics

    • Basic atomic & nuclear structure
    • Isotopes
    • The strong nuclear force
    • Particles & interactions
    • Antiparticles
    • The four fundamental forces
    • Particle classification & conservation laws
    • Electromagnetic radiation

  9. Unit 9 - Thermodynamics

    • Thermal energy transfer
    • Changing states
    • Molecular kinetic theory and kinetic energy
    • Avogadro’s law

  10. Unit 10 - Space

    • Astrophysics
    • Distance, luminosity & flux
    • Hertzsprung-Russell diagram
    • Cosmology
    • Binding energy and fission
    • Expansion of the universe and The Hubble Constant

  11. Unit 11 - Nuclear Radiation

    • Radioactivity
    • Rutherford scattering
    • α, β, & γ radiation
    • Radioactive decay
    • Applications of radioactive isotopes
    • Nuclear energy
    • Fission & fusion

  12. Unit 12 - Gravitational Fields

    • Newton’s Law of Gravitation (The Third Law)
    • Orbits of planets and satellites

  13. Preparing for the examinations

    • Paper 1 Advanced Physics 1
    • Paper 2 Advanced Physics 2
    • Paper 3 General and Practical Principles in Physics

Awarding Body

Edexcel Logo

Edexcel is the UK’s largest awarding organisation offering academic and vocational qualifications in schools, colleges and workplaces in the UK and abroad. Edexcel is a multinational education and examination body covering A-Level Courses and GCSE Courses.

View our other Edexcel qualifications.

Endorsed by

UCAS Logo

This course carries UCAS points. This means that it can be used to gain direct access to university courses and other higher education qualifications, through the UCAS system.

Visit our other UCAS endorsed products

Course Outcome

Upon successfully completing this distance learning course, you will receive the qualification: A-level Physics, issued by Edexcel. Your certificate is identical to that issued to students at any other school, college, or university.

Oxbridge has chosen this syllabus (9PH0) because it is the best suited to online learning and we believe it provides the greatest chance of success.

How is this course assessed or examined?

You’ll be required to complete three standard written exams:

    • Paper 1 Advanced Physics I: 1 hour 45 minutes, 30% of A-level.
    • Paper 2 Advanced Physics II: 1 hour 45 minutes, 30% of A-level.

    • Paper 3 General and Practical Principles in Physics: 2 hours 30 minutes, 40% of A-level.

These exams contain a mixture of multiple choice and short answer questions, data analysis and extended response questions.

The assessment of practical skills is a compulsory requirement of A-level Physics. It will appear on all certificates as a separately reported result alongside the overall grade for the qualification. You will be required to carry out a minimum of 12 practical activities.

Entry requirements

It is strongly recommended that you have studied Physics GCSE or equivalent level before starting this course. This Edexcel A-level Physics syllabus is a difficulty level three: an A-level or BTEC equivalent difficulty, usually suitable for most learners of all ages.

Where will my exam take place?

As an Oxbridge student, you will be guaranteed access to one of our exam centres located across the country. You may also want to consider taking a Practical Endorsement to apply the theoretical knowledge you’ll gain from studying our online A-level Physics course in a practical, lab-based setting, though this is completely optional.

Check out this guide to practical endorsements and find your nearest A-level exam centre.

Course code: X906

A-level Physics

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Do you need GCSE Physics to study A-level Physics?

No, you do not need to have studied GCSE Physics to study A-level Physics. However, A-level Physics builds on the work done in GCSE Science and Maths, so it is worth considering.  

What subjects go well with A-level Physics?

Mathematics, Chemistry, Further Mathematics, Design & Technology are all subjects that intertwine well with A-level Physics. 

Is A-level Physics harder than Maths?

Both A-level Physics and A-level Maths can be complex subjects to study. However, we’re proud to have a 98% pass rate for our students. With the support and learning materials we provide, you will be able to achieve your desired grade.

Is Physics A-level worth it?

Yes – studying physics will enable you to increase your knowledge about the subject and carry that forward. 

What is the hardest topic in Physics A-level?

During your studies, you will cover different topics, each posing different challenges. Electricity and Magnetism are widely regarded as complex topics, but with our support and learning resources, you can feel confident in completing A-level Physics.  

What is A-level Physics?

A-level Physics explores the relationships and interactions between matter, energy and force.  As you delve into a fascinating world comprised of unique elements, you will study key topics such as: 
  • Electric Circuits 
  • Mechanics 
  • Electromagnetism 
  • Waves 
  • Thermodynamics 
  • Quantum Physics 
  • Nuclear Physics 

Do you have past papers that I can use to practice for my exams?

Yes! We have GCSE and A-Level past papers. Our past papers cover a variety of subjects and awarding bodies. We are adding more papers all the time.

Can I sign up for a Student Beans account and get Student Discounts?

Yes! One of the many benefits of being an Oxbridge student is that you get access to great discounts with a Student Beans account! Eligibility criteria apply and acceptance is made at the discretion of Student Beans. Find out how to sign up.

Can you provide a reference for my UCAS application?

Oxbridge is able to provide an academic reference for you however, we cannot provide a personal reference as this needs to be someone who knows you personally.

Can I get predicted grades for my UCAS application?

Absolutely! We can process a predicted grade for you once you have completed a total of four assignments - this can be sent over to you via email or letter which can then be passed on to UCAS for your application.

Exam Results: I need to resit my exams, can I enrol with Oxbridge?

At Oxbridge, we take enrolments all year round. Once you're enrolled, you'll be able to get started right away. Studying online means your work and revision fit around you and your lifestyle. For example, if you have a part-time job or need to study alongside other subjects, you'll be able to find time to fit our online courses into your schedule. Enjoy flexible, convenient, affordable learning, fully supported by expert tutors who are passionate about their subjects. We pride ourselves on the quality of our course tutors and know that they hold the key to success. Whatever your goals, dreams or aspirations, Oxbridge is here to help you facilitate them.

Exam Results: When will I receive my certificate?

Oxbridge students who sat their exams through our partnership exam centres will usually receive their certificates in November. Certificates will be sent out by recorded delivery.
Wondering what to do next? There are so many options available, it's important to get the right advice. Whether your choice is to continue onto further education, go into job training or get an apprenticeship and whether your grades are high or low - there are always options! Speak to an adviser today to see how we can support you on your next steps...

Exam Results: I didn't pass English or Maths, what do I do next?

First of all, don't worry - everything will be okay. Unfortunately, if you didn't get a grade 4 or higher (equivalent to a C or above) in your English and Maths, you will have to re-take it in order to pass. Oxbridge is ready and available to support you with this. Get in touch via live chat, phone or email.

Exam Results: I have individual unit marks, but no overall grade. What should I do?

Check for a cash-in code on your statement of entry. If there isn't one, cash-in may not have been applied for. Cash-in can be applied for retrospectively from your exam centre and once entered you can expect an overall grade in one week.

Exam Results: I haven't done as well as I expected in my exams. Is there anything I can do?

Yes! There are a number of post-result services available. Your entering centre will be able to provide you with further information and will process any requests for you. If you're not sure where to turn, our friendly learning advisers are on hand and ready to help you.

What can I do with my A-levels?

A-levels are a universal way to demonstrate academic competency in a multitude of disciplines. A-levels are subject-based qualifications that lead to either university, further study, training, or work. A-levels serve as a standardised way to demonstrate your academic ability and are very common entry requirements to most higher-level courses.

Why study an online A-level course from home?

A-levels can be studied from home with Oxbridge, using our online platform. On average we find that students receive 20% higher grades and pass around 30% more quickly than in a traditional college.

How many UCAS points is an A-level course?

A-levels are the most common way to access university in the UK. The system in which this is done is called UCAS. This stands for: “the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service”. See the A-level UCAS tariff points breakdown below:
  • A* - 56
  • A - 48
  • B - 40
  • C - 32
  • D - 24
  • E - 16

What A-Level courses should I take?

If you’re planning on going on to a degree, your chosen university will usually publish their entry requirements for each course on their website. See how these subjects feel and decide if you would enjoy them as they will form much of the base knowledge for your degree. If you’re not entirely sure what to study, there are some standard subjects that many students choose to help them secure a place at a prestigious university, such as one of the Russell Group universities. These courses are known as the ‘facilitating courses’ and include Biology, Chemistry, Physics, English Literature, Geography, History, Maths, Further Maths, Modern Languages and Classical Languages. Generally speaking, taking two facilitating subjects will allow you to keep your progression options open. For further help and guidance, we have written a detailed guide on How to Choose A-Levels.

How long does it take to study an A-level?

It’s possible to study an A-level course both full-time and part-time. Normally students would study for two years, but with Oxbridge, you can also fast-track your course to complete it in one year.

What are A-Levels?

A-levels (also known as Advanced level qualifications) entail in-depth study of a chosen subject in order to open doors to further study including University, training, and work. A-levels courses tend to focus on specific academic subjects such as Mathematics, English and the Sciences: Biology, Chemistry and Physics. The course material and the exams you take will be the same everywhere.

Why study A-level Physics?

You’ll also gain a range of skills in data interpretation, investigation and evaluation and develop transferable skills in analytics, communication, technical ability and organisation – perfect for carrying forward to higher education and future careers such as engineering, computer science, applied science and IT.

Are there assignments for this Physics AQA A-level course?

Yes, during your course you’ll be required to complete various assignments. These do not contribute to your final grade but provide you with an opportunity to submit work to your tutor for marking and feedback. This will help you to monitor your progress and will be used to produce predicted grades if needed.

Does this Physics A-level course have any additional requirements?

Some students, such as those who wish to go on to study medicine at university, may need to complete a practical endorsement as part of their qualification. Check with your university if your chosen area of study requires this and if it does, this can be arranged through our examination partners, Tutors & Exams.

How much do exams cost?

Many of our courses do not require exams however, A-levels, GCSEs and some other courses do require exams to complete the qualification. Exam fees are additional to the cost of the course and prices vary depending on the course and where you sit them - find out more. Planning on studying A-levels or GCSEs with us? We can add your exams during enrolment and blend them into your monthly payment plan if you wish. If you're not ready to book your exam(s) yet, you can book them at a later date - all of the information is available on MyOxbridge under NEAS and Exams.