1

Cambridge IGCSE

Physics
Revision Guide 2024

Unit 1 Part 1

Mohammed Ali
[Physics with Mo Ali]

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 1 – Part 1

 2
Quantities and Measurements
1 Describe the use of rulers and measuring cylinders to find a length or a volume
2 Describe how to measure a variety of time intervals using clocks and digital timers
3 Determine an average value for a small distance and for a short interval of time by measuring multiples (including
the period of oscillation of a pendulum)

International System of Units (SI) and Prefixes

Base Quantity SI Unit Prefix Multiplier Value
Length meters (m) mega (M) × 1000 000 × 106
Time seconds (s) kilo (k) × 1000 × 103
Mass kilograms (kg) centi (c) ÷ 100 × 10−2
Temperature Kelvin (K) milli (m) ÷ 1000 × 10−3
Electric Current Ampere (A) micro (µ) ÷ 1000 000 × 10−6

Measuring Length
Meter Rule Lengths up to 1 m
Measuring Tape Long distances more than 1 m
Micrometer Small lengths, such as thickness of coins or wires

Measuring the thickness of a sheet of paper

thickness
1. Measure the thickness of several sheets of paper (100) of 100
2. Divide the reading by the number of sheets (100) to get the thickness of one sheet sheets
3. Repeat and take an average

Defining Volume: The space occupied by an object. (m3 cm3).

Measuring volume of a liquid Use a measuring cylinder
Measuring volume of a regular 𝑣𝑜𝑙𝑢𝑚𝑒 = 𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ × 𝑤𝑖𝑑𝑡ℎ × ℎ𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡
solid 𝑣𝑜𝑙𝑢𝑚𝑒 = 𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑎 𝑜𝑓 𝑏𝑎𝑠𝑒 × ℎ𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡
Measuring volume of an irregular pour some water into a measuring cylinder and record the volume
solid (V1)
gently put the stone (object) into the water using a thread to avoid
splashing
record the new volume level from the cylinder (V2)
the volume of the stone is the difference between the two readings
(V2-V1)

Time
Converting Units of time: 1 ℎ𝑜𝑢𝑟 → 60𝑚𝑖𝑛 and 1𝑚𝑖𝑛 → 60𝑠𝑒𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑑𝑠
Time is measured using a stopwatches, clocks and digital timers.
Measuring the period of oscillation of a pendulum
1. Measure the time of several cycles in one go (20 oscillations).
2. Then divide the reading by the number of oscillations (20).
3. Repeat the reading and take an average.
4. Reset your stopwatch to zero before making measurements

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 1 – Part 1

 3
Mass and Weight
1 State that mass is a measure of the quantity of matter in an object at rest relative to the observer
2 State that weight is a gravitational force on an object that has mass
𝑊
3 Define gravitational field strength as force per unit mass; recall and use the equation 𝑔 = 𝑚 and know that this is
equivalent to the acceleration of free fall (9.8𝑁/𝑘𝑔)
4 Know that weights (and masses) may be compared using a balance
5 Describe, and use the concept of, weight as the effect of a gravitational field on a mass

Defining Mass: A measure of the quantity of matter in an object at rest relative to the observer (amount of matter)
Mass is measured using a balance.
Measuring the mass of a liquid
1. To find the mass of a liquid measure the mass of the empty container first (m1).
2. Then measure the mass of the container and liquid together (m2).
3. Finally calculate the difference to get the mass of the liquid alone (m2-m1). mass of liquid = 250 – 200 = 50 g

Defining Weight: The gravitational force on an object that has mass

Calculating Weight: 𝑾 = 𝒎𝒈 where g = 9.8N/kg and is equal to the acceleration of freefall.
Defining gravitational field strength (g): force per unit mass

From June 2023 Paper 23

From June 2023 Paper 22

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 1 – Part 1

 4
Density
𝑚
1 Define density as mass per unit volume; recall and use the equation 𝜌 = 𝑉

2 Describe how to determine the density of a liquid, of a regularly shaped solid and of an irregularly shaped solid
which sinks in a liquid (volume by displacement), including appropriate calculations
3 Determine whether an object floats based on density data
4 Determine whether one liquid will float on another liquid based on density data given that the liquids do not mix

Defining Density: the mass per unit volume of a substance

𝒎
Calculating Density: 𝝆 = 𝑽
(kg/m3 or g/cm3)

Measuring the density of a regular solid

1. Measure the mass of the object using a balance
2. Measure the length, width and height and calculate the volume of the object
3. Calculate density using mass/volume
Measuring the density of a liquid
1. Measure the mass of an empty measuring cylinder
2. Pour the liquid into the cylinder and measure the new mass
3. The difference is the mass of the liquid
4. Record the volume of the liquid from the measuring cylinder scale
5. Calculate density using mass/volume
Measuring the density of an irregular solid
1. Measure the mass of the object using a balance
2. Pour some water into a measuring cylinder and measure the initial volume
3. Gently put the object into the measuring cylinder and record the new volume
4. Calculate the difference to find the volume of the object
5. Calculate density using mass/volume
Floating and Sinking
Objects or liquids that are less dense than water will float on top of water. Objects or liquids that are more dense than
water will sink in the water.
Extra point 1: Objects made of the same material have the same density, even if these objects are of different sizes
and masses.
Extra point 2: Temperature can affect the density of a substance. Increasing the temperature decreases the density.
Decreasing the temperature increases the density.

From March 2023 Paper 22

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 1 – Part 1

 5
Scalars and Vectors
1 Understand that a scalar quantity has magnitude (size) only and that a vector quantity has magnitude and direction
2 Know that the following quantities are scalars: distance, speed, time, mass, energy and temperature
3 Know that the following quantities are vectors: force, weight, velocity, acceleration, momentum, electric field
strength and gravitational field strength
4 Determine, by calculation or graphically, the resultant of two vectors at right angles, limited to forces or velocities
only

Defining Scalars: Quantities with only magnitude

Examples of scalars; distance, speed, time, mass, energy and temperature
Defining Vectors: Quantities with magnitude and direction
Examples of vectors; force, weight, velocity, acceleration, momentum, electric field strength and gravitational field
strength

Resultant Vectors (Adding Vectors) by Calculation

𝑹𝒆𝒔𝒖𝒍𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝑽𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒐𝒓 = √𝑭𝟏𝟐 + 𝑭𝟐𝟐

Direction is the angle 𝛉
𝒐𝒑𝒑𝒐𝒔𝒊𝒕𝒆
𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝜽 = 𝒉𝒚𝒑𝒕𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒖𝒔𝒆 then on your calculator SHIFT + sin (ANS).

𝒂𝒅𝒋𝒂𝒄𝒆𝒏𝒕
𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝜽 = 𝒉𝒚𝒑𝒕𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒖𝒔𝒆 then on your calculator SHIFT+ cos (ANS).

𝒐𝒑𝒑𝒐𝒔𝒊𝒕𝒆
𝐭𝐚𝐧 𝜽 = 𝒂𝒅𝒋𝒂𝒄𝒆𝒏𝒕 then on your calculator SHIFT + tan (ANS).

Resultant Vectors (Adding Vectors) by Drawing

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 1 – Part 1

 6
From March 2023 Paper 42

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 1 – Part 1

 7
Motion
𝑑
1 Define speed as distance travelled per unit time; recall and use the equation 𝑠 = 𝑡

2 Define velocity as speed in a given direction

3 Recall and use the equation average speed = total distance travelled total time taken
4 Sketch, plot and interpret distance–time and speed–time graphs
5 Determine, qualitatively, from given data or the shape of a distance–time graph or speed–time graph when an object
is: a. at rest b. moving with constant speed c. accelerating d. decelerating
6 Calculate speed from the gradient of a straight- line section of a distance–time graph
7 Calculate the area under a speed–time graph to determine the distance travelled for motion with constant speed or
constant acceleration
8 State that the acceleration of free fall g for an object near to the surface of the Earth is approximately constant and is
approximately 9.8 m/s2
∆𝑣
9 Define acceleration as change in velocity per unit time; recall and use the equation 𝑎 = 𝑡

10 Determine from given data or the shape of a speed–time graph when an object is moving with: a. constant
acceleration b. changing acceleration
11 Calculate acceleration from the gradient of a speed–time graph
12 Know that a deceleration is a negative acceleration and use this in calculations

Defining Speed: distance travelled per unit time

𝒅 𝒅
Calculating speed: 𝒔 = 𝑜𝑟 𝒗 = (m/s or km/h)
𝒕 𝒕

𝒕𝒐𝒕𝒂𝒍 𝒅𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒗𝒆𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒅

Calculating average speed: 𝒂𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒈𝒆 𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒆𝒅 =
𝒕𝒐𝒕𝒂𝒍 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆 𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒆𝒏

Defining Velocity: speed in a given direction (vector version of speed)

Distance-Time Graphs

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 1 – Part 1

 8
Defining Acceleration: change in velocity per unit time
∆𝒗 𝒗−𝒖
Calculating acceleration: 𝒂 = 𝑜𝑟 𝒂 = (m/s2)
𝒕 𝒕

Deceleration is when the velocity decreases, also known as negative acceleration.

Speed-Time Graphs

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 1 – Part 1

 9
From November 2023 Paper 42

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 1 – Part 1

 10
Forces
1 Know that forces may produce changes in the size and shape of an object
2 Sketch, plot and interpret load–extension graphs for an elastic solid and describe the associated experimental
procedures
3 Determine the resultant of two or more forces acting along the same straight line
4 Know that an object either remains at rest or continues in a straight line at constant speed unless acted on by a
resultant force
5 State that a resultant force may change the velocity of an object by changing its direction of motion or its speed
6 Describe solid friction as the force between two surfaces that may impede motion and produce heating
7 Know that friction (drag) acts on an object moving through a liquid
8 Know that friction (drag) acts on an object moving through a gas (e.g. air resistance)
9 Define the spring constant as force per unit extension; recall and use the equation k = F/x
10 Define and use the term ‘limit of proportionality’ for a load–extension graph and identify this point on the graph
(an understanding of the elastic limit is not required)
11 Recall and use the equation F = ma and know that the force and the acceleration are in the same direction
12 Describe, qualitatively, motion in a circular path due to a force perpendicular to the motion as: a. speed increases if
force increases, with mass and radius constant b. radius decreases if force increases, with mass and speed constant c.
an increased mass requires an increased force to keep speed and radius constant (F = mv2/r is not required)
13 Describe the motion of objects falling in a uniform gravitational field with and without air/ liquid resistance
(including reference to terminal velocity)

Effect of Force on Shape and Size

original length
stretched
length
extension

load

𝒆𝒙𝒕𝒆𝒏𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏 = 𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒆𝒕𝒄𝒉𝒆𝒅 𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒈𝒕𝒉 − 𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒊𝒏𝒂𝒍 𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒈𝒕𝒉

Hooke’s Law: The extension of a spring is directly proportional to the load on it, as long as the limit of
proportionality (elastic limit) is not exceeded.
Define Spring Constant: Force per unit extension
𝑭
Calculate Spring Constant: 𝒌 = (N/cm)
𝒙

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 1 – Part 1

 11
Resultant of Forces in a Straight Line
If forces are in the same direction, they are added. If forces are in opposite directions, they are subtracted.

Friction and Drag

Solid friction is the resisting force between two solid surfaces moving relative to each other. Friction can slow down
objects. Friction produces heat energy (kinetic to heat).
Friction with water and air is called Drag (Water or Air resistance).
Drag increases if: 1. Speed of the object increases and 2. Area of the object increases.

Newton’s First Law of Motion

An object either remains at rest or continues in a straight line at constant speed unless acted on by a resultant force.

A resultant force may change the velocity of an object by changing its direction of motion or its speed.

Newton’s Second Law

Calculating Force: 𝑹𝒆𝒔𝒖𝒍𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝑭𝒐𝒓𝒄𝒆 = 𝒎𝒂𝒔𝒔 × 𝒂𝒄𝒄𝒆𝒍𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂 Force and acceleration are in the
same direction.
Unit: Newton (N)

Circular Motion
Motion in a circular path is due to a force perpendicular to the motion. The resultant force is always towards the center
of the circle. The acceleration is towards the center of the circle.
a. speed increases if force increases, with mass and radius constant
b. radius decreases if force increases, with mass and speed constant
c. an increased mass requires an increased force to keep speed and radius constant

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 1 – Part 1

 12
Objects falling in a vacuum (no air resistance)
Falls at constant acceleration of 9.8 m/s2, called the acceleration of freefall, due to the weight of the object.

Objects falling in air (with air resistance)

Objects experience three stages of motion:
1. Only weight acts downwards, so object falls at constant acceleration of 9.8 m/s2
2. As speed increases, upward air resistance increases, so downward resultant force decreases, which decreases
the acceleration.
3. Upward air resistance becomes equal to downward weight, resultant force and acceleration are zero, so object
falls at a constant maximum speed (called terminal velocity)

Graph for object falling in air:

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 1 – Part 1

 13
From June 2022 Paper 42

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 1 – Part 1

 14
From November 2022 Paper 41

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 1 – Part 1

 15

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 1 – Part 1

 16
Momentum
1 Define momentum as mass x velocity; recall and use the equation p = mv
2 Define impulse as force x change in time; recall and use the equation Impulse = FΔt = Δ(mv)
3 Apply the principle of the conservation of momentum to solve simple problems in one dimension
4 Define resultant force as the change in momentum per unit time; recall and use the equation F = ∆p/∆t

Defining Momentum: product of mass and velocity

Calculating momentum: 𝒑 = 𝒎𝒗 (kg m/s or Ns)
Defining Impulse: Force x change in time
Calculating impulse: 𝑰𝒎𝒑𝒖𝒍𝒔𝒆 = 𝑭𝒕 = ∆𝒎𝒗 (Ns)
Extra Note: According to the formula above, impulse is equal to the change in momentum of an object. A common
question is one that asks you to calculate momentum. Then asks you to state the impulse, which is equal to the
previous answer of impulse.
Defining Resultant Force: change in momentum per unit time
∆𝒎𝒗 ∆𝒑
Calculating resultant force: 𝑭 = ∆𝒕
𝑜𝑟 𝑭 = ∆𝒕
(N)

Law of Conservation of Momentum: total momentum of a closed system is always conserved (constant)
Solving problems using the law of conservation of momentum: 𝒔𝒖𝒎 𝒐𝒇 𝒎𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒖𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒆 = 𝒔𝒖𝒎 𝒐𝒇 𝒎𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒖𝒎𝒂𝒇𝒕𝒆𝒓

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 1 – Part 1

 17
From June 2016 Paper 42

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 1 – Part 1

 18
From November 2023 Paper 43

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 1 – Part 1

 1

Cambridge IGCSE

Physics
Revision Guide 2024

Unit 1 Part 2

Mohammed Ali
[Physics with Mo Ali]

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 1 – Part 2

 2
Turning Effect of Forces
1 Describe the moment of a force as a measure of its turning effect and give everyday examples
2 Define the moment of a force as moment = force × perpendicular distance from the pivot; recall and use this
equation
3 Apply the principle of moments to situations with one force each side of the pivot, including balancing of a beam
4 State that, when there is no resultant force and no resultant moment, an object is in equilibrium
5 Apply the principle of moments to other situations, including those with more than one force each side of the pivot
6 Describe an experiment to demonstrate that there is no resultant moment on an object in equilibrium
7 State what is meant by centre of gravity
8 Describe an experiment to determine the position of the centre of gravity of an irregularly shaped plane lamina
9 Describe, qualitatively, the effect of the position of the centre of gravity on the stability of simple objects

Moments
Defining and calculating moment: moment = force × perpendicular distance from the pivot (Ncm or Nm)
Moments have two directions: clockwise and anticlockwise
If a force is at the pivot there is no moment.

Equilibrium: there is no resultant force and no resultant moment

Applying equilibrium: clockwise moment = anticlockwise moment

Center of Gravity
Defining centre of gravity: a point in an object where weight is considered to act

• For regular shapes, centre of gravity is in the geometrical center of the object.
• For irregular shapes, centre of gravity is near the heavier portion of the object.

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 1 – Part 2

 3
Experiment: Finding the center of mass of a plane lamina (sheet of card or paper)
1. Hang the card using a pin, stand and clamp from one end. When the card balances, the center of mass is
somewhere below the pin.
2. Attach a thread with a mass at the end (plumb line) on the pin and draw a vertical line along the thread.
3. Repeat steps 1 & 2 from another point on the card. The point of intersection of the lines is the center of mass.

Stability
Stability of an object increases when: the center of mass is lower and width of base is wider.
Stability of an object decreases when: the center of mass is higher and width of base is narrower.

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 1 – Part 2

 4
From November 2022 Paper 41

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 1 – Part 2

 5
Energy, Work and Power
1 State that energy may be stored as kinetic, gravitational potential, chemical, elastic (strain), nuclear, electrostatic,
magnetic and internal (thermal)
2 Describe how energy is transferred between stores during events and processes, including examples of transfer by
forces (mechanical work done), electrical currents (electrical work done), heating, and by electromagnetic, sound and
other waves
3 Know the principle of the conservation of energy and apply this principle to simple examples including the
interpretation of simple flow diagrams
1
4 Recall and use the equation for kinetic energy 𝐸𝑘 = 2 𝑚𝑣 2
5 Recall and use the equation for the change in gravitational potential energy Δ𝐸𝑝 = 𝑚𝑔Δℎ
6 Know the principle of the conservation of energy and apply this principle to complex examples involving multiple
stages, including the interpretation of Sankey diagrams
7 Understand that mechanical or electrical work done is equal to the energy transferred
8 Recall and use the equation for mechanical working 𝑊 = ∆𝐸 = 𝐹𝑑
9 Define power as work done per unit time and also as energy transferred per unit time; recall and use the equations a.
P = W t b. P = ∆E t
10 Understand, qualitatively, the concept of efficiency of energy transfer
11 Define efficiency as: a. (%) efficiency = (useful energy output) (total energy output) (×100%) b. (%) efficiency =
(useful power output) (total power output) (×100%) recall and use these equations
Energy Stores:
1. Kinetic → Increases as speed of object increases.
𝟏
Calculating Kinetic Energy: 𝑬𝒌 = 𝒎𝒗𝟐 (Joules J)
𝟐

2. Gravitational Potential → Increases as height of object from ground increases.

Calculating Gravitational Potential Energy: Δ𝑬𝒑 = 𝒎𝒈Δ𝒉 (J)

3. Chemical → Food, fuel, batteries, wood, humans, plants, animals.

4. Elastic (Strain) → Increases when an object is stretched, compressed or bent (springs, bows, etc.)
5. Nuclear → In the nucleus of an atom (released during nuclear fission or fusion)
6. Internal (thermal) → Total kinetic energy of the molecules of a substance, increases when temperature of an
object increases.
7. Electrostatic and Magnetic → Energy stored in an electric field and magnetic field respectively.
Methods of energy transfers:
1. Force → mechanical work
2. Electric current → electrical work
3. Heating
4. Waves (light or sound)
Defining Law of Conservation of Energy: energy cannot be created nor destroyed but can only be changed from one
form to another
Defining Work Done: the transfer of energy
Calculating mechanical work: 𝑾 = ∆𝑬 = 𝑭𝒅 (J)

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 1 – Part 2

 6
Defining Power: work done per unit time or energy transferred per unit time
𝑾 ∆𝑬
Calculating Power: 𝑷 = = (Watt W)
𝒕 𝒕

Defining and calculating Efficiency:

𝑢𝑠𝑒𝑓𝑢𝑙 𝑒𝑛𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦 𝑜𝑢𝑡𝑝𝑢𝑡 𝑢𝑠𝑒𝑓𝑢𝑙 𝑝𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑢𝑡𝑝𝑢𝑡
𝑒𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑦 (%) = × 100 𝐨𝐫 𝑒𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑦 (%) = × 100
𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑒𝑛𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦 𝑖𝑛𝑝𝑢𝑡 𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑝𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑟 𝑖𝑛𝑝𝑢𝑡

Light energy Light energy

Electrical 15W
energy 60W Electrical 15W
energy 20W

Wasted Heat
Wasted Heat
energy 5W
energy 45W

From June 2022 Paper 42

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 1 – Part 2

 7
From June 2022 Paper 43

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 1 – Part 2

 8
Pressure
𝐹
1 Define pressure as force per unit area; recall and use the equation 𝑝 = 𝐴

2 Describe how pressure varies with force and area in the context of everyday examples
3 Describe, qualitatively, how the pressure beneath the surface of a liquid changes with depth and density of the liquid
4 Recall and use the equation for the change in pressure beneath the surface of a liquid Δ𝑝𝑙 = 𝜌𝑔Δℎ

Defining Pressure: force per unit area

𝑭
Calculating Pressure: 𝒑 = 𝑨 (Pascal Pa)

• Pressure increases as Force increases or Surface Area decreases.

• Pressure decreases as Force decreases or Surface Area increases.

Calculating Pressure beneath the surface of a liquid: Δ𝒑𝒍𝒊𝒒𝒖𝒊𝒅 = 𝝆𝒈Δ𝒉.

• Pressure beneath liquid surface increases if the depth increases and if density of the liquid increases.
• Pressure beneath liquid surface decreases if the depth decreases and if the density of the liquid decreases.
Extra Note: Total pressure beneath liquid pressure is equal to the sum of liquid pressure and atmospheric pressure.

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 1 – Part 2

 9
From June 2022 Paper 41

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 1 – Part 2

 10
From June 2023 Paper 42

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 1 – Part 2

 11
Energy Resources
1 Describe how useful energy may be obtained, or electrical power generated, from
a. chemical energy stored in fossil fuels
b. chemical energy stored in biofuels
c. water, including the energy stored in waves, in tides, and in water behind hydroelectric dams
d. geothermal resources
e. nuclear fuel
f. light from the Sun to generate electrical power (solar cells)
g. infrared and other electromagnetic waves from the Sun to heat water (solar panels) and be the source of
wind energy
including references to a boiler, turbine and generator where they are used
2 Describe advantages and disadvantages of each method in terms of renewability, availability, reliability, scale and
environmental impact
3 Know that radiation from the Sun is the main source of energy for all our energy resources except geothermal,
nuclear and tidal
4 Know that energy is released by nuclear fusion in the Sun
5 Know that research is being carried out to investigate how energy released by nuclear fusion can be used to produce
electrical energy on a large scale

Power Station Energy Transfer, advantages and disadvantages

chemical energy stored in fossil fuels
𝒄𝒉𝒆𝒎𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒍 → 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒕 → 𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒄 → 𝒆𝒍𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒍
Advantages: Reliable, high-energy output
Disadvantages: Air pollution, greenhouse gases, non-
renewable

nuclear fuel
𝒏𝒖𝒄𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒓 → 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒕 → 𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒄 → 𝒆𝒍𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒍
Advantages: Reliable, very high-energy output
Disadvantages: Nuclear waste, ionizing radiation, non-
renewable

geothermal resources
𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒎𝒂𝒍 → 𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒄 → 𝒆𝒍𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒍
Advantages: Renewable, reliable, no pollution
Disadvantages: difficult to find a location where rocks
are hot enough

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 1 – Part 2

 12
water, waves
𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒄 → 𝒆𝒍𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒍
Advantages: renewable, no pollution
Disadvantages: unreliable as it relies on waves coming
and going, low energy output

water, tides
𝒈𝒓𝒂𝒗𝒊𝒕𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒂𝒍 → 𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒄 → 𝒆𝒍𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒍
Advantages: renewable, no pollution
Disadvantages: unreliable, low energy output, difficult to
find a location to build

water, hydroelectric
𝒈𝒓𝒂𝒗𝒊𝒕𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒂𝒍 → 𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒄 → 𝒆𝒍𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒍
Advantages: renewable, no pollution
Disadvantages: unreliable as it relies on rain and rivers,
difficult to find a proper location to build

light from the Sun, solar cells

𝒍𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 → 𝒆𝒍𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒍
Advantages: renewable, no pollution
Disadvantages: unreliable as it does not generate
electricity at night, needs a lot of space with good sunlight

wind, heat from Sun warms atmosphere to produce wind

𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒄 → 𝒆𝒍𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒍
Advantages: Renewable, no pollution
Disadvantages: unreliable as it relies on wind speed that
can change, low energy output, needs a lot of space with
high-speed wind

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 1 – Part 2

 13
Sun
Radiation from the Sun is the main source of energy for all our energy resources except geothermal, nuclear and tidal.
The energy in the Sun is produced by nuclear fusion.
1. Fossil fuels: Fossil fuels were originally living creatures which were previously alive because of the Sun.
2. Hydroelectric: The Sun evaporates the ocean’s water, creating clouds that rain down to form lakes and rivers.
3. Wind: temperature differences between different regions of the earth cause the air to flow, and these
temperature differences are due to the Sun.
4. Solar: light and heat (infrared) energy from the sun.

From November 2022 Paper 43

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 1 – Part 2

 14
From June 2023 Paper 43 Question 2

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 1 – Part 2

 1

Cambridge IGCSE

Physics
Revision Guide 2024

Unit 2

Mohammed Ali
[Physics with Mo Ali]

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 2

 2
Kinetic Particle Model of Matter
1 Know the distinguishing properties of solids, liquids and gases
2 Know the terms for the changes in state between solids, liquids and gases (gas to solid and solid to gas transfers are
not required)
3 Describe the particle structure of solids, liquids and gases in terms of the arrangement, separation and motion of the
particles, and represent these states using simple particle diagrams
4 Know that the forces and distances between particles (atoms, molecules, ions and electrons) and the motion of the
particles affects the properties of solids, liquids and gases
5 Describe an increase in temperature of an object in terms of an increase in the average kinetic energies of all of the
particles in the object
6 Describe the relationship between the motion of particles and temperature, including the idea that there is a lowest
possible temperature (−273 °C), known as absolute zero, where the particles have least kinetic energy
7 Convert temperatures between kelvin and degrees Celsius; recall and use the equation T (in K) = θ (in °C) + 273
8 Describe melting and boiling in terms of energy input without a change in temperature
9 Know the melting and boiling temperatures for water at standard atmospheric pressure
10 Describe condensation and solidification in terms of particles
11 Describe evaporation in terms of the escape of more energetic particles from the surface of a liquid
12 Know that evaporation causes cooling of a liquid
13 Describe the differences between boiling and evaporation
14 Describe how temperature, surface area and air movement over a surface affect evaporation
15 Explain the cooling of an object in contact with an evaporating liquid

States of Matter
Solid Liquids Gases
Shape and Volume Fixed shape and a fixed volume Fixed volume but not a fixed No fixed shape nor volume
shape
Diagram

Spacing and Molecules have very small Molecules have small spacing Molecules are all far apart with
Arrangement spacing between them. between them. Molecules are very large spacing between
Molecules have regular randomly arranged (no fixed them. There is no arrangement.
arrangement. pattern).
Motion Molecules vibrate about a fixed Molecules slide over each other Molecules move very fast, free
position. randomly. and randomly
Attractive Forces Very strong bonds between the Strong bonds between the Very weak bonds between the
(Bonds) molecules. molecules molecules

Defining Temperature: Average Kinetic Energy of the molecules in a substance (Units: ℃, K)

If the temperature of an object increases, the molecules move faster. If temperature decreases, the molecules move
slower.
Defining Absolute Zero: the lowest possible temperature at which particles have the least kinetic energy (-273℃)
Changing from ℃ to K: 𝑻 (𝒊𝒏 𝑲) = 𝜽 (𝒊𝒏 ℃) + 𝟐𝟕𝟑

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 2

 3
Changes in State

melting boiling

SOLID LIQUID GAS

solidification/freezing condensing

Melting and freezing happen at the same temperature called the melting
point. Melting point of ice is 0℃.
During melting and boiling the molecules gain heat energy to weaken or
break the bond between the molecules and move them farther apart. The
molecules do NOT gain kinetic energy, so the temperature remains
constant.
Boiling and condensing happen at the same temperature called the
boiling point. Boiling point of water is 100℃.
During condensation and freezing the molecules lose heat energy to
strength the bonds between the molecules and move them closer together.
The molecules do NOT lose kinetic energy, so the temperature remains
constant.
Defining Evaporation: the most energetic molecules on the surface of the liquid break their bonds and escape
Cooling Effect of Evaporation: less energetic molecules remain during evaporation, so the temperature of the
remaining liquid decreases.
*Note: if this liquid is on an object, or body, it will absorb heat from the object cooling it down as well.
Increasing the rate of evaporation:
1. Increasing temperature: the molecules have more energy
2. Increasing surface area: more molecules are on the surface that can escape
3. Air movement above surface: wind or air currents push molecules away from liquid surface
Differences between boiling and evaporation
Boiling Evaporation
Bubbles are observed during boiling. No bubbles observed during evaporation.
Occurs only at the boiling point and requires Occurs at any temperature below boiling and does
constant heating. not require heating.
All the molecules throughout the liquid boil and Only the most energetic molecules on the surface of
escape. the liquid escape.
The temperature of the liquid remains constant The temperature of the remaining liquid decreases.
throughout.

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 2

 4
From June 2023 Paper 42 Question 4

From June 2023 Paper 22

From June 2023 Paper 21

From June 2022 Paper 41 Question 3

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 2

 5
Thermal Expansion and Gases
1 Describe, qualitatively, the thermal expansion of solids, liquids and gases at constant pressure
2 Describe some of the everyday applications and consequences of thermal expansion
3 Explain, in terms of the motion and arrangement of particles, the relative order of magnitudes of the expansion of
solids, liquids and gases as their temperatures rise
4 Describe the pressure and the changes in pressure of a gas in terms of the motion of its particles and their collisions
with a surface
5 Know that the random motion of microscopic particles in a suspension is evidence for the kinetic particle model of
matter
6 Describe and explain this motion (sometimes known as Brownian motion) in terms of random collisions between the
microscopic particles in a suspension and the particles of the gas or liquid
7 Describe the pressure and the changes in pressure of a gas in terms of the forces exerted by particles colliding with
surfaces, creating a force per unit area
8 Know that microscopic particles may be moved by collisions with light fastmoving molecules and correctly use the
terms atoms or molecules as distinct from microscopic particles
9 Describe qualitatively, in terms of particles, the effect on the pressure of a fixed mass of gas of:
a. a change of temperature at constant volume
b. a change of volume at constant temperature
10 Recall and use the equation pV = constant for a fixed mass of gas at constant temperature, including a graphical
representation of this relationship

Thermal Expansion
Defining Thermal Expansion: increase in volume of a substance when its temperature increases (opposite of
expansion is contraction, decrease in volume when temperature decreases).
Explaining Thermal Expansion: when the temperature increases, the molecules move faster and farther apart
(spacing between molecules increases)
Properties that affect the amount of thermal expansion:
1. State, gases expand more than liquids, liquids expand more than solids, because gases have weaker bonds than
liquids, and liquids weaker than solids.
2. Temperature, the higher the temperature the more a substance expands.
3. Initial volume, the higher the volume the more a substance expands.
Applications of Thermal Expansion:
1. Thermometers use liquid expansion to show temperature
2. Fitting rings over rods (rings over wheels), heating iron rings make them expand so they can fit on wheels
3. Bimetallic strips are made of two different solid strips stuck together. When heat one expands more than the
other so the strip bends. Used in thermostats and old fire alarms.
Consequences of Thermal Expansion:
1. Railway tracks can deform (buckle) at very high temperatures. Solved by leaving small gaps between sections
of a railway track.
2. Bridges and roads can deform and fracture at very high temperatures. Solved by leaving small gaps between
sections of bridges.
3. Hanging electric cables can expand if it gets too hot and touch cars on the road. They can also contract during
cold seasons and tear if they contract too much.

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 2

 6
Brownian Motion
Describing Brownian Motion: The random and irregular motion of smoke particles (pollen grains) in air (water).
Explaining Brownian Motion: Due to the random collisions of the air molecules (water molecules) with the smoke
particles (pollen grains) from all directions.

Gas Pressure
Explaining how gas particles apply pressure: Gas particles move freely, colliding with the walls of the container,
experiencing a change in momentum over time, which applies force over the area of the walls.
Effect of Temperature on Gas Pressure (constant volume)
Describe: Temperature and pressure of a gas, in a closed container, are directly proportional.
Explain, in terms of molecules: Gas molecules move faster, colliding harder and more frequently with the walls of
the container.
Effect of Volume on Gas Pressure (constant temperature)
Describe: Volume and pressure of a gas, at a constant temperature, are inversely proportional.
Explain, in terms of molecules: Spacing between gas molecules decreases, so they collide more frequently with the
walls of the container.
Calculate: 𝑷𝑽 = 𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒕 or 𝑷𝟏 𝑽𝟏 = 𝑷𝟐 𝑽𝟐

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 2

 7
From June 2023 Paper 42 Question 4

From June 2023 Paper 43 Question 3

From June 2023 Paper 21

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 2

 8
Specific Heat Capacity
1 Know that a rise in the temperature of an object increases its internal energy
2 Define specific heat capacity as the energy required per unit mass per unit temperature increase; recall and use the
equation c = ∆E/ m∆θ
3 Describe experiments to measure the specific heat capacity of a solid and liquid

Define Internal Energy: total kinetic energy of the molecules in a substance

Define Specific Heat Capacity: Energy needed to raise the temperature of a unit mass (1kg) by a unit temperature
(1℃).
∆𝑬
Calculating Specific Heat Capacity (c): 𝒄 = 𝒎∆𝑻 (J/kg℃) or just remember ∆𝑬 = 𝒎𝒄∆𝑻 (J)

Experiment to measure c of a solid object or liquid

Measure the:
1. Mass of the object or liquid (𝒎) using a balance
2. Initial temperature of the iron (𝑻𝟏 ) using a thermometer
3. Power of the heater (𝑷) using P=VI (or is given)
4. Final temperature of the iron (𝑻𝟐 )
5. Time taken to cause the change in temperature (𝒕) using a stopwatch
𝑷𝒕
6. Calculate c using 𝒄 = 𝒎(𝑻
𝟐 −𝑻𝟏 )

*Note: (just remember that to get the mass of a liquid, you need the difference between the mass of the empty
container and the mass of the container with the liquid)

From June 2023 Paper 43 Question 3

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 2

 9
From June 2023 Paper 42 Question 5

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 2

 10
Transfer of Thermal Energy
A Conduction
1 Describe experiments to demonstrate the properties of good thermal conductors and bad thermal conductors (thermal
insulators
2 Describe thermal conduction in all solids in terms of atomic or molecular lattice vibrations and also in terms of the
movement of free (delocalised) electrons in metallic conductors
3 Describe, in terms of particles, why thermal conduction is bad in gases and most liquids
4 Know that there are many solids that conduct thermal energy better than thermal insulators but do so less well than
good thermal conductors
B Convection
1 Know that convection is an important method of thermal energy transfer in liquids and gases
2 Explain convection in liquids and gases in terms of density changes and describe experiments to illustrate
convection
C Radiation
1 Know that thermal radiation is infrared radiation and that all objects emit this radiation
2 Know that thermal energy transfer by thermal radiation does not require a medium
3 Describe the effect of surface colour (black or white) and texture (dull or shiny) on the emission, absorption and
reflection of infrared radiation
4 Know that for an object to be at a constant temperature it needs to transfer energy away from the object at the same
rate that it receives energy
5 Know what happens to an object if the rate at which it receives energy is less or more than the rate at which it
transfers energy away from the object
6 Describe experiments to distinguish between good and bad emitters of infrared radiation
7 Describe experiments to distinguish between good and bad absorbers of infrared radiation
8 Describe how the rate of emission of radiation depends on the surface temperature and surface area of an object
D Consequences of thermal energy transfer
1 Explain some of the basic everyday applications and consequences of conduction, convection and radiation,
including:
a. heating objects such as kitchen pans
b. heating a room by convection
2 Explain some of the complex applications and consequences of conduction, convection and radiation where more
than one type of thermal energy transfer is significant, including:
a. a fire burning wood or coal
b. a radiator in a car

Conduction
Describe Conduction (in non-metals): When heated, the atoms (molecular lattice) vibrate and transfers heat to
nearby atoms (lattices).
Describe Conduction (in metals): When heated, the atoms (molecular lattice) vibrate and transfers heat to nearby
atoms (lattices) AND free electrons move to transfer heat to distant atoms (lattices).
Good conductors of heat: copper, iron, steel, aluminium (all metals)
Poor conductors of heat (good insulators): plastic, rubber, wood, glass, cloth, wool. Liquids and gases are poor
conductors of thermal energy because their molecules are farther apart.

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 2

 11
Experiment to demonstrate good and poor conductors of heat
1. Stick balls to both rods using wax
2. Heat the rods from one at the same rate
3. The better conductor will melt the wax faster so more balls will fall.
4. The worse conductor will melt the wax slower so less balls will fall.

Convection
Describing and explaining convection: Hot liquids (or gases) rise, and cold liquids (or gases) sink, because hot
liquids (and gases) are less dense than cold liquids (and gases).
Why are hot liquids/gases less dense than cold? Because when liquids/gases are heated their volume increases,
without a change in mass, so their density decreases.

Radiation
What is radiation? Thermal energy transferred using infrared waves (electromagnetic waves). They can travel
through a vacuum, travel in straight lines and in all directions.
What affects the rate of emission or radiation?
1. Surface area, as area increases the rate of emission of infrared waves increases
2. Surface temperature, as the temperature increases the rate of emission of infrared waves increases
How do colours affect the absorption, emission and reflection of radiation from a surface?
DULL BLACK colours are the BEST absorbers and emitters (WORST reflectors) of infrared radiation.
SHINY WHITE colours are the WORST absorbers and emitters (BEST reflectors) of infrared radiation. This includes
shiny silver.
Experiment to distinguish between good and bad emitters of
infrared radiation
1. Put hot water into the container.
2. Place a thermometer in front of each surface.
3. The thermometer that increases the fastest is the best
emitter of radiation (dull black surface).
4. The thermometer that increases the slowest is the worst
emitter of radiation (shiny white surface).

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 2

 12
Experiment to distinguish between good and bad absorbers of infrared radiation
1. Get four identical metal cans and paint each one a different color.
2. Fill each can with equal volumes of water at the same temperature and put
a thermometer in each can.
3. Place a heater in the middle of the cans. Make sure that the distance
between each can and the heater is equal for a fair comparison.
4. Turn on the heater and measure the temperature of each can at equal time
intervals.
5. The can with the fastest rate of temperature increase is the best absorber
(dull black can).
6. The can with the slowest rate of temperature increase is the worst absorber
(shiny white can).
Effect of radiation emission and absorption on the temperature of an object
Energy transferred away is equal to energy received Temperature stays constant

Energy transferred away is less than energy received Temperature increases

Energy transferred away is more than energy received Temperature decreases

Common everyday examples of multiple thermal energy transfers

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 2

 13
From June 2023 Paper 42 Question 5

From November 2023 Paper 41 Question 2

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 2

 14
From June 2022 Paper 41 Question 6

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 2

 1

Cambridge IGCSE

Physics
Revision Guide 2024

Unit 3 Part 1

Mohammed Ali
[Physics with Mo Ali]

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 3 – Part 1

 2
General Properties of Waves
1 Know that waves transfer energy without transferring matter
2 Describe what is meant by wave motion as illustrated by vibrations in ropes and springs and by experiments using
water waves
3 Describe the features of a wave in terms of wavefront, wavelength, frequency, crest (peak), trough, amplitude and
wave speed
4 Recall and use the equation v = f λ
5 Know that for a transverse wave, the direction of vibration is at right angles to the direction of propagation and
understand that electromagnetic radiation, water waves and seismic S-waves (secondary) can be modelled as
transverse
6 Know that for a longitudinal wave, the direction of vibration is parallel to the direction of propagation and
understand that sound waves and seismic P-waves (primary) can be modelled as longitudinal
7 Describe how waves can undergo:
a. reflection at a plane surface
b. refraction due to a change of speed
c. diffraction through a narrow gap
8 Describe the use of a ripple tank to show:
a. reflection at a plane surface
b. refraction due to a change in speed caused by a change in depth
c. diffraction due to a gap
d. diffraction due to an edge
9 Describe how wavelength and gap size affects diffraction through a gap
10 Describe how wavelength affects diffraction at an edge

Defining Waves: transfer of energy without transferring matter

Mechanical Waves: need a medium to propagate (sounds, ripple)
Electromagnetic Waves: do not need a medium to propagate, can travel through a vacuum (light, infrared, etc.)
Transverse Waves: particles of the medium vibrate perpendicular to wave propagation, producing crests and troughs
(electromagnetic waves, water waves, seismic S-Waves).
Longitudinal Waves: particles of the medium vibrate parallel to wave propagation, producing compressions and
rarefactions (sound waves and seismic P-Waves).

compression particle vibration

crest particle
vibration

direction
of wave direction of
trough rarefaction
motion wave motion

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 3 – Part 1

 3
Features of Waves
Wavefront: line that represents the crests of a wave and show the shape of the wave. Distance between two
successive wavefronts is the wavelength.
Amplitude: maximum displacement moved by particles from their mean position. Represents the amount of energy in
a wave.
Wavelength (λ): distance between two successive crests or two successive troughs (or two successive
compressions/rarefactions in a longitudinal wave).
Period (T): time taken for one complete oscillation (wave)
Frequency (f): number of oscillations (waves) per unit time (second). Unit: Hertz (Hz)
𝟏 𝒕𝒐𝒕𝒂𝒍 𝒏𝒖𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒓 𝒐𝒇 𝒘𝒂𝒗𝒆𝒔
Calculating Frequency: 𝒇 = or 𝒇 =
𝑻 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆

Wave speed (v): distance travelled by the wave (energy) per unit time
Calculating speed of a wave: 𝒗 = 𝒇𝝀

Reflection of Waves
Define reflection: Change in direction of a wave when it hits a plane surface (obstacle or barrier).
Law of Reflection: angle of incidence (i) = angle of reflection (r)
*Note: angles of incidence and reflection are always measured from the normal

Refraction of Waves
Define Refraction: Change in speed of a wave when medium changes.
When a wave moves from a less dense to a more dense medium: speed decreases, wavelength decreases, ray bends
closer to normal. Frequency does not change.
When a wave moves from a more dense to a less dense medium: speed increases, wavelength increases, ray bends
away from normal. Frequency does not change.
*Note: if ray hits the boundary at 90° it does not change direction
Explaining why wave changes direction: part of the wavefront goes into the more dense medium before the rest, so
the part in the more dense medium slows down before the rest, causing it to bend.

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 3 – Part 1

 4

Diffraction of Waves
Spreading of a wave as it passes through a narrow gap, or past an edge.
For a gap:
If the 𝒈𝒂𝒑 is larger than the 𝝀 , or if the wavelength is very small. Very little spreading occurs (Diffracts less).
If 𝒈𝒂𝒑 𝑖𝑠 𝑠𝑚𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑜𝑟 𝑎𝑙𝑚𝑜𝑠𝑡 𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑙 𝑡𝑜 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝝀, or if the wavelength is very large. Very large spreading occurs
(Diffracts more).

For an edge:
As the wavelength decreases, the spreading decreases (diffracts less).
As the wavelength increases, the spreading increases (diffracts more).

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 3 – Part 1

 5
From June 2023 Paper 42

From March 2023 Paper 22

From June 2023 Paper 21

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 3 – Part 1

 6
From June 2022 Paper 43

From June 2023 Paper 22

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 3 – Part 1

 7
Sound
1 Describe the production of sound by vibrating sources
2 Describe the longitudinal nature of sound waves
3 State the approximate range of frequencies audible to humans as 20 Hz to 20 000 Hz
4 Know that a medium is needed to transmit sound waves
5 Know that the speed of sound in air is approximately 330–350 m / s
6 Describe a method involving a measurement of distance and time for determining the speed of sound in air
7 Describe how changes in amplitude and frequency affect the loudness and pitch of sound waves
8 Describe an echo as the reflection of sound waves
9 Define ultrasound as sound with a frequency higher than 20 kHz
10 Describe compression and rarefaction
11 Know that, in general, sound travels faster in solids than in liquids and faster in liquids than in gases
12 Describe the uses of ultrasound in non-destructive testing of materials, medical scanning of soft tissue and sonar
including calculation of depth or distance from time and wave speed

Describing Sound Waves

Sound waves are mechanical longitudinal waves, produced by vibrating objects.
A compression is a region where the molecules are close together/pressure is greater than normal atmospheric.
A rarefaction is a region where the molecules are far apart/pressure is lower than normal atmospheric.

Speed of Sound
Sound travels faster in solids than in liquids and faster in liquids than in gases:
1. Speed of sound in air = 330 to 350 m/s
2. Speed of sound in water = 1500 m/s
3. Speed of sound in steel = 5000 to 6000 m/s
Experiment to measure the speed of sound.
1. Two people stand a large distance away from each other.
2. Measure the distance between them using a measuring tape (should be at least 300 m). Record the distance d.
3. Give person A a starting pistol/flash gun and person B a stopwatch
4. When person A fires the gun, person B will see the flash and press START on the stopwatch.
5. After a short time, person B will hear the sound and press STOP. Record the time t.
𝒅
6. Calculate the speed using 𝒔 = 𝒕

*Note: Light travels faster than sound

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 3 – Part 1

 8
Amplitude and Frequency of Sound
As amplitude increases, the loudness of sound increases. As amplitude decreases, the loudness of sound decreases.
As frequency increases, the pitch increases (high pitch). As frequency decreases, the pitch decreases (low pitch).

Range of audible frequencies: 𝟐𝟎𝑯𝒛 → 𝟐𝟎 𝟎𝟎𝟎𝑯𝒛 (𝟐𝟎𝒌𝑯𝒛)

Infrasound: Sound waves with a frequency less than 20 Hz.
Ultrasound: Sound waves with a frequency more than 20 000 Hz.
Uses of ultrasound:
1. Sonar, detecting objects under the surface of water.
2. Medical imaging, used to check on pregnant women.
3. Non-destructive testing of materials, to see if there are defects or gaps in solid materials.

Defining Echoes: the reflection of sound

𝟐𝒅
Calculations in echoes: 𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒆𝒅 = because sound waves travel to and from the reflecting surface.
𝒕

From June 2023 Paper 22

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 3 – Part 1

 9
From March 2023 Paper 42

From March 2023 Paper 22

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 3 – Part 1

 10
Electromagnetic Spectrum
1 Know the main regions of the electromagnetic spectrum in order of frequency and in order of wavelength
2 Know that all electromagnetic waves travel at the same high speed in a vacuum
3 Describe typical uses of the different regions of the electromagnetic spectrum.
4 Describe the harmful effects on people of excessive exposure to electromagnetic radiation, including:
a. microwaves; internal heating of body cells
b. infrared; skin burns
c. ultraviolet; damage to surface cells and eyes, leading to skin cancer and eye conditions
d. X-rays and gamma rays; mutation or damage to cells in the body
5 Know that communication with artificial satellites is mainly by microwaves:
a. some satellite phones use low orbit artificial satellites
b. some satellite phones and direct broadcast satellite television use geostationary satellites
6 Know that the speed of electromagnetic waves in a vacuum is 3.0 × 108 m/s and is approximately the same in air
7 Know that many important systems of communications rely on electromagnetic radiation including:
a. mobile phones (cell phones) and wireless internet use microwaves because microwaves can penetrate some walls
and only require a short aerial for transmission and reception
b. Bluetooth uses radio waves because radio waves pass through walls but the signal is weakened on doing so
c. optical fibres (visible light or infrared) are used for cable television and high-speed broadband because glass is
transparent to visible light and some infrared; visible light and short wavelength infrared can carry high rates of data
8 Know the difference between a digital and analogue signal
9 Know that a sound can be transmitted as a digital or analogue signal
10 Explain the benefits of digital signaling including increased rate of transmission of data and increased range due to
accurate signal regeneration

The Spectrum
All waves in the spectrum:
1. can travel through vacuum
2. travel at the same high speed in vacuum/air (𝟑 × 𝟏𝟎𝟖 𝒎/𝒔)
3. are transverse waves

Visible Light
Radio Waves Microwaves Infrared Ultraviolet X-Rays Gamma Rays
violet
blue
red
orange

indigo
green
yellow

Frequency Decreases Frequency Increases

Wavelength Increases Wavelength Decreases

Uses of the different regions of the electromagnetic spectrum including:

a. radio waves; radio and television transmissions, astronomy, radio frequency identification (RFID)
b. microwaves; satellite television, mobile phones (cell phones), microwave ovens
c. infrared; electric grills, short range communications such as remote controllers for televisions, intruder
alarms, thermal imaging, optical fibres
d. visible light; vision, photography, illumination
e. ultraviolet; security marking, detecting fake bank notes, sterilising water
f. X-rays; medical scanning, security scanners
g. gamma rays; sterilising food and medical equipment, detection of cancer and its treatment

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 3 – Part 1

 11
Harmful effects on people of excessive exposure to electromagnetic radiation, including:
a. microwaves; internal heating of body cells
b. infrared; skin burns
c. ultraviolet; damage to surface cells and eyes, leading to skin cancer and eye conditions
d. X-rays and gamma rays; mutation or damage to cells in the body

Artificial Satellite types that use microwaves:

a. some satellite phones use low orbit artificial satellites
b. some satellite phones and direct broadcast satellite television use geostationary satellites

Geostationary orbit spins with Earth and stays in the

same position relative to the planet, used for satellite TV
Low orbit satellite orbits around
Earth for satellite phones

Communication Systems
a. Mobile phones (cell phones) and wireless internet use microwaves because microwaves can penetrate some
walls and only require a short aerial for transmission and reception
b. Bluetooth uses radio waves because radio waves pass through walls but the signal is weakened on doing so
c. Optical fibres (visible light or infrared) are used for cable television and high-speed broadband because glass
is transparent to visible light and some infrared; visible light and short wavelength infrared can carry high
rates of data

Signal Types
Define Digital: signals that have one of two values, high or low.
Define Analogue: signals that can have any value within a certain range and can be varied.
Advantages of digital over analogue at transmitting data:
1. Increased rate of transmission
2. Increased range
This is because digital signals are not as affected by noise and can be regenerated easily.

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 3 – Part 1

 12
From June 2023 Paper 41

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 3 – Part 1

 13
From June 2023 Paper 43

From March 2023 Paper 22

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 3 – Part 1

 1

Cambridge IGCSE

Physics
Revision Guide 2024

Unit 3 Part 2

Mohammed Ali
[Physics with Mo Ali]

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 3 – Part 2

 2
Reflection of Light
1 Define and use the terms normal, angle of incidence and angle of reflection
2 Describe the formation of an optical image by a plane mirror, and give its characteristics, i.e. same size, same
distance from mirror, virtual
3 State that for reflection, the angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection; recall and use this relationship
4 Use simple constructions, measurements and calculations for reflection by plane mirrors

Define normal: perpendicular line to the reflecting surface

Define angle of incidence: angle between the incident ray and the normal
Define angle of reflection: angle between the reflected ray and the normal
Law of Reflection: angle of incidence (i) = angle of reflection (r)
Characteristics of images formed by an image in a mirror:
1. Same size as object
2. Same distance from the mirror
3. Virtual (image cannot be seen on a screen
4. Laterally inverted (left and right reversed)

Ray diagram to form a reflected image:

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 3 – Part 2

 3
From June 2022 Paper 43 Question 7

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 3 – Part 2

 4
From March 2022 Paper 42

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 3 – Part 2

 5
Refraction of Light
1 Define and use the terms normal, angle of incidence and angle of refraction
2 Describe an experiment to show refraction of light by transparent blocks of different shapes
3 Describe the passage of light through a transparent material (limited to the boundaries between two media only)
4 State the meaning of critical angle
5 Describe internal reflection and total internal reflection using both experimental and everyday examples
6 Define refractive index, n, as the ratio of the speeds of a wave in two different regions
7 Recall and use the equation n = sin i/sin r
8 Recall and use the equation n = 1/sin c
9 Describe the use of optical fibres, particularly in telecommunications
10 Describe the dispersion of light as illustrated by the refraction of white light by a glass prism
11 Know the traditional seven colours of the visible spectrum in order of frequency and in order of wavelength
12 Recall that visible light of a single frequency is described as monochromatic

Define angle of refraction: angle between refracted ray and normal.

Refraction of light through a parallel sided block

Incident ray is parallel to emergent ray.
Some of the light is partially reflected at the surface of the glass.
Speed of light in air = 3x108 m/s
*Speed of light in glass = almost 2x108 m/s
Define Refractive Index (n): ratio of speeds of a wave in two
different mediums.
𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒆𝒅𝒊𝒏 𝒂𝒊𝒓 𝐬𝐢𝐧(𝜽𝒂𝒊𝒓 )
Calculating refractive index (n): 𝒏 = 𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒆𝒅 = 𝐬𝐢𝐧(𝜽 (n has no unit)
𝒊𝒏 𝒎𝒆𝒅𝒊𝒖𝒎 𝒎𝒆𝒅𝒊𝒖𝒎 )

What does a refractive index of “1.5” mean? The speed of light in air is “1.5” times faster than the speed of light in
the medium.

Refraction of light through a semi-circular glass block

Define critical angle: angle of incidence that causes the angle of refraction to be 90, as light travels from glass to air.
Define total internal reflection: the complete reflection of light inside glass when the angle of incidence is greater
than critical.
𝟏
Calculating refractive index using critical angle: 𝒏 = 𝐬𝐢𝐧 (𝒄) where c is the critical angle.

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 3 – Part 2

 6
Use of optic fibers in communications (telecom, internet broadband): used to transfer information/data using light or
infrared rays. Rays reflect inside the fiber because their angle of incidence is greater than critical.
Use of optic fibers in medicine (endoscope): used to see inside a patient during or before surgery, light travels
through the fiber, reflects back through the fiber to detecting equipment outside.

Refraction of Monochromatic Light through a prism

Define monochromatic light: light that has a single frequency

Dispersion of white light through a prism

Red refracts the least, it has the largest wavelength, and slows down the least. Has a smaller index.
Violet refracts the most, it has the smallest wavelength, and slows down the most. Has a larger index.

From Specimen 2023 Paper 4 Question 6

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 3 – Part 2

 7
From March 2023 Paper 42

From June 2023 Paper 43 Question 5

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 3 – Part 2

 8
From June 2023 Paper 41 Question 5

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 3 – Part 2

 9
Thin Lenses
1 Describe the action of thin converging and thin diverging lenses on a parallel beam of light
2 Define and use the terms focal length, principal axis and principal focus (focal point)
3 Draw and use ray diagrams for the formation of a real image by a converging lens
4 Describe the characteristics of an image using the terms enlarged/same size/ diminished, upright/inverted and
real/virtual
5 Know that a virtual image is formed when diverging rays are extrapolated backwards and does not form a visible
projection on a screen
6 Draw and use ray diagrams for the formation of a virtual image by a converging lens
7 Describe the use of a single lens as a magnifying glass
8 Describe the use of converging and diverging lenses to correct long-sightedness and short-sightedness

Converging (Convex) Lens: bends light rays towards Diverging (Concave) Lens: bends light rays away from
the focal point the focal point

Define focal length: distance between the center of the lens and focal point.
Define principal focus: a point, on the principal axis, where parallel light rays meet after passing through the lens.

Drawing a converging lens ray diagram

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 3 – Part 2

 10
Characteristics of an image based on object location

If object O is close to lens

Image is:
Real
Inverted
Enlarged

Application: Projector

If object O is far away from lens

Image is:
Real
Inverted
Diminished

Application: Camera

If object O is between F and lens (very close to lens)

Image is:
Virtual
Upright
Enlarged

Application: Magnifying glass

Correcting vision using lenses

Short-sightedness: Cannot see far objects clearly Long-sightedness: Cannot see close objects clearly
because eye lens focuses light in front of retina because eye lens focuses light behind retina
Solution: Diverging lens to focus light on the retina Solution: Converging lens to focus light on the retina
(increases focal length). (decreases focal length).

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 3 – Part 2

 11
From Specimen 2023 Paper 4

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 3 – Part 2

 12
From March 2023 Paper 42 Question 5

From June 2023 Paper 43 Question 4

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 3 – Part 2

 1

Cambridge IGCSE

Physics
Revision Guide 2024

Unit 4 Part 1 Electricity

Mohammed Ali
[Physics with Mo Ali]

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 4 – Part 1

 2
Static Electricity
1 State that there are positive and negative charges
2 State that positive charges repel other positive charges, negative charges repel other negative charges, but positive
charges attract negative charges
3 Describe simple experiments to show the production of electrostatic charges by friction and to show the detection of
electrostatic charges
4 Explain that charging of solids by friction involves only a transfer of negative charge (electrons)
5 Describe an experiment to distinguish between electrical conductors and insulators
6 Recall and use a simple electron model to explain the difference between electrical conductors and insulators and
give typical examples
7 State that charge is measured in coulombs
8 Describe an electric field as a region in which an electric charge experiences a force
9 State that the direction of an electric field at a point is the direction of the force on a positive charge at that point
10 Describe simple electric field patterns, including the direction of the field:
a. around a point charge
b. around a charged conducting sphere
c. between two oppositely charged parallel conducting plates (end effects will not be examined)

Define Electric Charge: property of matter that experiences a force near other charges (Coulomb, C)
There are positive and negative charges.
Like charges repel, opposite charges attract. Neutral and charges attract. Neutral and neutral experience no force.

Electrical conductors: conduct electricity because they have free moving electrons (copper, iron, aluminium, all
metals).
Electrical insulators: cannot conduct electricity because they do no have free moving electrons (rubber, plastic, glass,
wood, etc..)
Insulators can be statically charged by rubbing. The friction causes electrons to be transferred from one insulator to the
other. The object that loses electrons becomes positive, and the one that gains electrons is negative.
*This can be tested by bringing the charged object next to another charged object (it will attract or repel) or near
neutral objects (it will attract).

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 4 – Part 1

 3
Define Electric Field: Region where electric charges experience a force.
Define Electric Field Direction: force on a positive charge at that point. Field lines are always drawn from positive to
negative.
*Note: As the space between field lines decreases, the strength of the field increases.

From June 2023 Paper 42 Question 8

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 4 – Part 1

 4
From June 2023 Paper 21

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 4 – Part 1

 5
Current Electricity
Current:
1 Know that electric current is related to the flow of charge
2 Describe the use of ammeters (analogue and digital) with different ranges
3 Describe electrical conduction in metals in terms of the movement of free electrons
4 Know the difference between direct current (d.c.) and alternating current (a.c.)
5 Define electric current as the charge passing a point per unit time; recall and use the equation I = Q/t
6 State that conventional current is from positive to negative and that the flow of free electrons is from negative to
positive
Voltage:
1 Define electromotive force (e.m.f.) as the electrical work done by a source in moving a unit charge around a
complete circuit
2 Know that e.m.f. is measured in volts (V)
3 Define potential difference (p.d.) as the work done by a unit charge passing through a component
4 Know that the p.d. between two points is measured in volts (V)
5 Describe the use of voltmeters (analogue and digital) with different ranges
6 Recall and use the equation for e.m.f. E = W/Q
7 Recall and use the equation for p.d. V = W/Q
Resistance:
1 Recall and use the equation for resistance R=V/I
2 Describe an experiment to determine resistance using a voltmeter and an ammeter and do the appropriate
calculations
3 State, qualitatively, the relationship of the resistance of a metallic wire to its length and to its cross-sectional area
4 Sketch and explain the current–voltage graphs for a resistor of constant resistance, a filament lamp and a diode
5 Recall and use the following relationship for a metallic electrical conductor:
a. resistance is directly proportional to length
b. resistance is inversely proportional to cross-sectional area
Power:
1 Understand that electric circuits transfer energy from a source of electrical energy, such as an electrical cell or mains
supply, to the circuit components and then into the surroundings
2 Recall and use the equation for electrical power P = IV
3 Recall and use the equation for electrical energy E = IVt
4 Define the kilowatt-hour (kW h) and calculate the cost of using electrical appliances where the energy unit is the
kWh

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 4 – Part 1

 6
Current:
Define Current: amount of charge passing a point per unit time (rate of flow of charge) (Ampere, A)
𝑸
Calculating Current: 𝑰 = 𝒕

Electric current is measured using an ammeter. Must be connected in series.

Direct Current (dc): Current has a fixed direction and value. Batteries and cells are DC sources.
Alternatic Current (ac): Current has a continuously changing direction and value. Generators and mains supplies are
AC sources.

Convectional Current flows from positive to negative.

Electron Flow is from negative to positive.

Voltage:
Define electromotive force (e.m.f.): the electrical work done by a source in moving a unit charge
around a complete circuit (Volt, V)
Define potential difference (p.d.): the work done by a unit charge passing through a component
(Volt, V)
𝑾 𝑾
Calculating Voltage (emf and pd): 𝑬 = or 𝑽 =
𝑸 𝑸

Voltage is measured using a voltmeter. Must be connected in parallel between two points.

Resistance:
If resistance increases, current decreases, for a given voltage. If resistance decreases, current increases, for a given
voltage.
Measured in Ohms, Ω.
𝑽
Calculating resistance: 𝑹 = 𝑰
(at a constant temperature)

Resistance of a wire is directly proportional to length.

Resistance of a wire is inversely proportional to cross-sectional area.
*Note: Resistance of a wire is inversely proportional to the diameter2 (d2). So if diameter is doubled, resistance
decreases by a quarter.
Experiment to measure the resistance of a component:
1. Measure the voltage using a voltmeter
2. Measure the current using an ammeter
𝑽
3. Calculate the resistance using 𝑹 = 𝑰
4. Change the voltage/total resistance in the circuit and repeat the experiment. Calculate the average.

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 4 – Part 1

 7
I-V Graphs

Fixed Resistor at Constant Filament Lamp. As temperature Diode. Current cannot flow in
Temperature increases resistance increases. opposite direction.

Power:
Defining Power: Transfer of energy per unit time. (In a circuit energy is transferred from a source of electrical energy,
such as an electrical cell or mains supply, to the circuit components and then into the surroundings, usually in the form
of heat or light)
Calculating Power: 𝑷 = 𝑰𝑽 (Watt, W)
Calculating Energy: 𝑬 = 𝑰𝑽𝒕 (Joules, J)
𝑽𝟐
Other Equations for Power: 𝑷 = 𝑰𝟐 𝑹 and 𝑷 =
𝑹

Define Kilowatt-hour: a measure of the electrical energy consumed by 1000 W of power in 1 hour
Converting Kilowatt-hour to Joules: 𝐸(𝑘𝑊ℎ) × 1000 × 3600 = 𝐸(𝐽𝑜𝑢𝑙𝑒𝑠)

From March 2023 Paper 42 Question 7

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 4 – Part 1

 8
From June 2023 Paper 43 Question 6

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 4 – Part 1

 9
From June 2023 Paper 21

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 4 – Part 1

 10
Electric Circuits
1 Draw and interpret circuit diagrams containing cells, batteries, power supplies, generators, potential dividers,
switches, resistors (fixed and variable), heaters, thermistors (NTC only), light-dependent resistors (LDRs), lamps,
motors, ammeters, voltmeters, magnetising coils, transformers, fuses and relays, and know how these components
behave in the circuit
2 Draw and interpret circuit diagrams containing diodes and light-emitting diodes (LEDs), and know how these
components behave in the circuit
3 Know that the current at every point in a series circuit is the same
4 Know how to construct and use series and parallel circuits
5 Calculate the combined e.m.f. of several sources in series
6 Calculate the combined resistance of two or more resistors in series
7 State that, for a parallel circuit, the current from the source is larger than the current in each branch
8 State that the combined resistance of two resistors in parallel is less than that of either resistor by itself
9 State the advantages of connecting lamps in parallel in a lighting circuit
10 Recall and use in calculations, the fact that:
a. the sum of the currents entering a junction in a parallel circuit is equal to the sum of the currents that leave the
junction
b. the total p.d. across the components in a series circuit is equal to the sum of the individual p.d.s across each
component
c. the p.d. across an arrangement of parallel resistances is the same as the p.d. across one branch in the arrangement of
the parallel resistances
11 Explain that the sum of the currents into a junction is the same as the sum of the currents out of the junction
12 Calculate the combined resistance of two resistors in parallel
13 Know that the p.d. across an electrical conductor increases as its resistance increases for a constant current
14 Describe the action of a variable potential divider
15 Recall and use the equation for two resistors used as a potential divider R1/R2 = V1/V2

Component Symbols
Component Symbol Component Symbol Component Symbol
cell ammeter potential divider

battery diode thermistor

switch light emitting diode light dependent

(LED) resistor (LDR)
power supply lamp heater

a.c. power fixed resistor buzzer

supply
voltmeter variable resistor fuse

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 4 – Part 1

 11
Variable Resistor
As length increases, the resistance increases. As length decreases, resistance
decreases.
Purpose: To control the current in the circuit.
Thermistor
As temperature increases, resistance decreases. As temperature decreases, resistance
increases. Temperature and resistance are inversely proportional.
Light Dependent Resistor
As light intensity increases, resistance decreases. As light intensity decreases, resistance
increases. Light intensity and resistance are inversely proportional.
Diode
Allows the current to only flow in one direction (direction of the arrow).
Current cannot flow in the opposite direction.
Is used to convert AC to DC.

Half-wave rectifier Full-wave rectifier bridge

Light Emitting Diode LED

Diode that emits light when a current flows through it, in the direction of the diode.

Series and Parallel Connections

Resistors in Series Resistors in Parallel

▪ Same current at every point in a series circuit.

▪ Combined resistance in a series circuit
▪ The current from the source is larger than the
increase.
current in each branch.
▪ 𝑹𝒕𝒐𝒕𝒂𝒍 = 𝑹𝟏 + 𝑹𝟐 + ⋯
▪ The sum of the currents entering a junction in
▪ The total p.d. across the components in a series
a parallel circuit is equal to the sum of the
circuit is equal to the sum of the individual
currents that leave the junction.
p.d.s across each component.
▪ Combined resistance of two resistors in parallel
▪ The p.d. across an electrical conductor
is less than that of either resistor by itself.
increases as its resistance increases for a 𝑷𝒓𝒐𝒅𝒖𝒄𝒕 𝑹 ×𝑹
constant current. ▪ 𝑹𝒕𝒐𝒕𝒂𝒍 = 𝑺𝒖𝒎 = 𝑹𝟏 +𝑹𝟐
𝟏 𝟐
▪ The p.d. across an arrangement of parallel
resistances is the same as the p.d. across one
branch in the arrangement of the parallel
resistances.

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 4 – Part 1

 12
Advantages of parallel over series in lighting circuits
Each lamp can be controlled independently (each lamp can have its own switch).
If one lamp breaks, it will not affect the other lamps.
Each lamp gets the full voltage from the supply (so the lamps can work at full brightness).
Sources in Series
Connecting sources in series and in the same direction increases the total emf. Connecting sources in opposite
directions decreases the total emf.

Potential Divider Circuit Variable Potential Divider

Purpose: Circuit that splits the voltage across two Purpose: to control the potential difference across a
resistors in series in proportion to the resistances component.
𝑽𝟏 𝑹𝟏
=
𝑽𝟐 𝑹𝟐

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 4 – Part 1

 13
From March 2023 Paper 42 Question 7

From November 2023 Paper 21

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 4 – Part 1

 14
From June 2023 Paper 41 Question 7

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 4 – Part 1

 15
From June 2023 Paper 42 Question 8

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 4 – Part 1

 16
Electrical Safety
1 State the hazards of:
a. damaged insulation
b. overheating cables
c. damp conditions
d. excess current from overloading of plugs, extension leads, single and multiple sockets when using a mains supply
2 Know that a mains circuit consists of a live wire (line wire), a neutral wire and an earth wire and explain why a
switch must be connected to the live wire for the circuit to be switched off safely
3 Explain the use and operation of trip switches and fuses and choose appropriate fuse ratings and trip switch settings
4 Explain why the outer casing of an electrical appliance must be either nonconducting (double-insulated) or earthed
5 State that a fuse without an earth wire protects the circuit and the cabling for a double-insulated appliance

Mains Circuit
Consists of a live wire (line wire), a neutral wire and an earth wire.
Live: 220V ac terminal. Switches must be connected to the live for safety.
Neutral: 0V terminal. Used to carry the current back out of the circuit (close the
circuit).
Earth: Safety feature that prevents electric shocks if a live wire touches the outer
metal casing of appliances (that are not insulated).
Hazards of electricity
Electric shocks or Electric fires can be caused by:
1. damaged insulation
2. overheating cables
3. damp conditions
4. excess current from overloading of plugs, extension leads, single and multiple sockets when using a mains
supply

Fuse
Function: Stops the current from flowing into a circuit when the current is too high by melting.
Must be connected to the live wire of the mains supply.
Fuse rating: 1 A to 3 A higher than the normal operating current of a device.

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 4 – Part 1

 17
Circuit Breaker (Trip Switch)
Function: Stops the current from flowing into a circuit when the current is too high by using an electromagnet to trip
an iron switch.
Must be connected to the live wire of the mains supply.
Breaker rating: 1 A to 3 A higher than the normal operating current of a device.

Earth Wire
Function: Protects users from getting electrically shocked if they touch a live metal case that is not insulated.
If the device does not have a metal case (it is insulated) an earth connection is not needed.
If there is a fuse, the large current drawn by the earth wire blows the fuse, cutting off the current.

From November 2022 Paper 22

From Specimen 2023 Paper 2

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 4 – Part 1

 1

Cambridge IGCSE

Physics
Revision Guide 2024

Unit 4 Part 2 Magnetism

Mohammed Ali
[Physics with Mo Ali]

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 4 – Part 2

 2
Simple Magnetism
1 Describe the forces between magnetic poles and between magnets and magnetic materials, including the use of the
terms north pole (N pole), south pole (S pole), attraction and repulsion, magnetised and unmagnetised
2 Describe induced magnetism
3 State the differences between the properties of temporary magnets (made of soft iron) and the properties of
permanent magnets (made of steel)
4 State the difference between magnetic and non-magnetic materials
5 Describe a magnetic field as a region in which a magnetic pole experiences a force
6 Draw the pattern and direction of magnetic field lines around a bar magnet
7 State that the direction of a magnetic field at a point is the direction of the force on the N pole of a magnet at that
point
8 Describe the plotting of magnetic field lines with a compass or iron filings and the use of a compass to determine the
direction of the magnetic field
9 Describe the uses of permanent magnets and electromagnets
10 Explain that magnetic forces are due to interactions between magnetic fields
11 Know that the relative strength of a magnetic field is represented by the spacing of the magnetic field lines
12 Describe the pattern and direction of the magnetic field due to currents in straight wires and in solenoids
13 Describe an experiment to identify the pattern of the magnetic field (including direction) due to currents in straight
wires and in solenoids
14 Describe how the magnetic effect of a current is used in relays and loudspeakers and give examples of their
application
15 State the qualitative variation of the strength of the magnetic field around straight wires and solenoids
16 Describe the effect on the magnetic field around straight wires and solenoids of changing the magnitude and
direction of the current

Magnetic Forces
Like poles repel.
Opposite poles attract.
Iron and Steel (Ferromagnetic Materials) are attracted to magnets.
Induced Magnetism
Definition: The process where an unmagnetised object becomes magnetic when inside a magnetic field
Iron is easy to magnetize and demagnetize (soft). Temporary.
Steel is difficult to magnetize and demagnetize (hard). Permanent.

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 4 – Part 2

 3
Magnetic Fields
Definition: region where magnets experience a force
Field lines are from North to South and show the direction of a compass at that point in the field.
The closer the lines are, the stronger the field. The farther apart the lines are the weaker the field.

Using a compass to determine a magnetic field

1. Place the compass, around the magnet and check the direction of the needles.
2. Mark a point where the compass needle points on a sheet of paper below the magnet.
3. Draw a line through the points where the needles were pointing, and you will get the magnetic field line.
4. Repeat this several times at different points around the magnet you can draw the entire field.

Magnetic field of an electric current in a straight wire

A current flowing through a conductor produces a circular concentric magnetic field around it.
The field can be clockwise or anti-clockwise depending on the direction of the current. Found using the right-hand
grip rule.
Field gets weaker as distance from the conductor increases, so the lines are spaced farther apart.

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 4 – Part 2

 4
Magnetic field of an electric current in a solenoid
A solenoid is a coiled wire.
Running a current through it produces a magnetic field similar to a bar magnet, but with field lines inside the solenoid.
The direction of the poles can be found using the right-hand grip rule.

The strength of the magnetic field can be increased by:

1. Increasing the magnitude of the current/voltage
2. Increasing the number of turns of the coil
3. Using an iron core
Application: Relay
Function: Used to control a high-voltage circuit using a low-voltage circuit.

Application: Speaker
Current passes through the coil, which attracts and repels the magnet
connected to the cone, so the cone vibrates the air molecules to produce
sound.

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 4 – Part 2

 5
From June 2023 Paper 22

From June 2023 Paper 23

From June 2023 Paper 21

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 4 – Part 2

 6
Electromagnetic Induction
Induction:
1 Know that a conductor moving across a magnetic field or a changing magnetic field linking with a conductor can
induce an e.m.f. in the conductor
2 Describe an experiment to demonstrate electromagnetic induction
3 State the factors affecting the magnitude of an induced e.m.f.
4 Know that the direction of an induced e.m.f. opposes the change causing it
5 State and use the relative directions of force, field and induced current
AC Generator:
1 Describe a simple form of a.c. generator (rotating coil or rotating magnet) and the use of slip rings and brushes
where needed
2 Sketch and interpret graphs of e.m.f. against time for simple a.c. generators and relate the position of the generator
coil to the peaks, troughs and zeros of the e.m.f.
Transformer:
1 Describe the construction of a simple transformer with a soft iron core, as used for voltage transformations
2 Use the terms primary, secondary, step-up and step-down
3 Recall and use the equation Vp/Vs = Np/Ns where p and s refer to primary and secondary
4 Describe the use of transformers in high-voltage transmission of electricity
5 State the advantages of high-voltage transmission
6 Explain the principle of operation of a simple iron-cored transformer
7 Recall and use the equation for 100% efficiency in a transformer Ip Vp = Is Vs where p and s refer to primary and
secondary
8 Recall and use the equation P = I2R to explain why power losses in cables are smaller when the voltage is greater

Electromagnetic Induction
Definition: Induction of emf in a conductor moving across a magnetic field.

The magnitude of the emf induced can be increased by:

1. Moving the wire/magnet faster
2. Using a stronger magnet
3. Increasing the number of turns of the coil

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 4 – Part 2

 7
Lenz’s Law Flemings Right Hand Rule
Definition: The direction of the induced emf opposes the Direction of the induced current can be found using
change causing it. Flemings Right Hand Rule.

AC Generator
Converts kinetic energy to electrical energy. Coil is rotated in a magnetic field,
inducing an emf across the coil.
Function of carbon brushes and slip rings: Conducts electricity to the output
circuit without twisting and breaking the wires.
The magnitude of the emf induced can be increased by:
1. Rotate the coil faster
2. Using a stronger magnet
3. Increasing the number of turns of the coil
Why is the generated emf alternating? Because the coil moves in a circular
path, causing the direction and angle of motion through the field to change.
Maximum voltage is when the coil is horizontal because the ends of the coil
cut the field at 90°.
Minimum voltage is when the coil is vertical because the ends of the coil are
parallel to the field.

Transformer
Increases or decreases the emf without losing power.
How does the transformer work?
An AC voltage is input into the primary coil, which releases an alternating magnetic field.
The alternating magnetic field magnetizes the iron core, changing through the secondary coil.
The alternating magnetic field induces an AC output voltage in the secondary coil.

𝑽 𝑵𝒑
Transformer equation: 𝑽𝒑 = 𝑵𝒔
𝒔

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 4 – Part 2

 8
High Voltage Transmission
Voltage is stepped up for transmission cables to reduce the
current, which reduces the heat produced by the cables. This
reduces energy lost to the surroundings and lowers cost of
cables (by allowing us to make them thinner.
Calculating Current in Transformers: 𝑰𝒑 𝑽𝒑 = 𝑰𝒔 𝑽𝒔

Extra Details: Power lost in transmission cables is

calculated using 𝑷 = 𝑰𝟐 𝑹, so decreasing the current reduces power loss by square of that decrease (halving the current
quarters the power loss).

From March 2023 Paper 22

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 4 – Part 2

 9
From March 2022 Paper 42

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 4 – Part 2

 10
From June 2023 Paper 41

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 4 – Part 2

 11
From June 2023 Paper 21

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 4 – Part 2

 12
Force on a current carrying conductor (Motor Effect)
1 Describe an experiment to show that a force acts on a current-carrying conductor in a magnetic field, including the
effect of reversing:
a. the current
b. the direction of the field
2 Recall and use the relative directions of force, magnetic field and current
3 Determine the direction of the force on beams of charged particles in a magnetic field
4 Know that a current-carrying coil in a magnetic field may experience a turning effect and that the turning effect is
increased by increasing:
a. the number of turns on the coil
b. the current
c. the strength of the magnetic field
5 Describe the operation of an electric motor, including the action of a split-ring commutator and brushes

Force on a current carrying conductor

Demonstrating force on a current carrying conductor
▪ Place a wire in a magnetic field.
▪ Run a current through the wire.
▪ The wire will move perpendicular to the field.
The direction of the force is determined by Flemings Left Hand Rule.
▪ If the current is reversed, the force direction is reversed.
▪ If the poles of the magnet are reversed, the force direction is
reversed.

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 4 – Part 2

 13
DC Motor
Converts electrical energy to kinetic energy, by passing a current through
a coil in a magnetic field. The end of the coil experience force, which
produces a moment and turns the coil in the field.
Function of the carbon brushes: Conducts electricity to the coil
without twisting and breaking the wires of the circuit.
Function of the slip rings: Reverses the direction of the current every
180° to keep the coil rotating in the same direction. Without it, the coil
would stall in a vertical position.
The speed of rotation can be increased by:
1. Increasing the current/voltage
2. Increasing the number of turns of the coil
3. Using a stronger magnet

Force between two parallel current carrying conductors

Magnetic field of A applies a force on B. Magnetic field of B applies a force on A. These forces are equal in
magnitude and opposite in direction.

From June 2023 Paper 21

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 4 – Part 2

 14
From March 2023 Paper 42

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 4 – Part 2

 15
From June 2023 Paper 23

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 4 – Part 2

 1

Cambridge IGCSE

Physics
Revision Guide 2024

Unit 5 Nuclear Physics

Mohammed Ali
[Physics with Mo Ali]

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 5

 2
Nuclear Model of the Atom
1 Describe the structure of an atom in terms of a positively charged nucleus and negatively charged electrons in orbit
around the nucleus
2 Know how atoms may form positive ions by losing electrons or form negative ions by gaining electrons
3 Describe how the scattering of alpha (α) particles by a sheet of thin metal supports the nuclear model of the atom, by
providing evidence for:
a. a very small nucleus surrounded by mostly empty space
b. a nucleus containing most of the mass of the atom
c. a nucleus that is positively charged
4 Describe the composition of the nucleus in terms of protons and neutrons
5 State the relative charges of protons, neutrons and electrons as +1, 0 and –1 respectively
6 Define the terms proton number (atomic number) Z and nucleon number (mass number) A and be able to calculate
the number of neutrons in a nucleus

7 Use the nuclide notation 𝑨𝒁𝑿

8 Explain what is meant by an isotope and state that an element may have more than one isotope
9 Describe the processes of nuclear fission and nuclear fusion as the splitting or joining of nuclei, to include the
nuclide equation and qualitative description of mass and energy changes without values
10 Know the relationship between the proton number and the relative charge on a nucleus
11 Know the relationship between the nucleon number and the relative mass of a nucleus

Structure of the Atom

Atom consists of a nucleus, with protons and neutrons inside, and Particle Relative Charge Relative Mass
electrons orbiting the nucleus. Proton +1 1𝑢
Neutron 0 1𝑢
Electron -1 1⁄2000 𝑢

Atoms of different elements are represented using the nuclide notation.

Define Isotope: An atom with the same proton number but a different nucleon number (number of neutrons).
*Note: All elements have more than one isotope (example: )

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 5

 3
Alpha Scattering Experiment (Gold foil experiment)
Observations:
1. Most alpha particles were undeflected
2. Some alpha particles were deflected
3. A very small number of alpha particles were deflected backwards
Conclusions:
1. There is a very small nucleus surrounded by mostly empty space
2. The nucleus that is positively charged
3. The nucleus containing most of the mass of the atom

Nuclear Fission and Fusion

Define Nuclear Fission: The splitting of a large nucleus into smaller nuclei
𝟐𝟑𝟓 𝟏𝟒𝟏 𝟗𝟐
𝟗𝟐𝑼 + 𝟏𝟎𝒏 → 𝟓𝟔𝑩𝒂 + 𝟑𝟔𝑲𝒓 + 𝟑 𝟏𝟎𝒏

Define Nuclear Fusion: The joining of two small nuclei into a larger nucleus
𝟐 𝟑
𝟏𝑯 + 𝟏𝑯 → 𝟒𝟐𝑯𝒆 + 𝟏𝟎𝒏

From March 2023 Paper 22

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 5

 4
From March 2023 Paper 42

From June 2023 Paper 41 Question 9

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 5

 5
Radioactive Decay
Types of Radiation
1 Describe the emission of radiation from a nucleus as spontaneous and random in direction
2 Identify alpha (α), beta (β) and gamma (γ) emissions from the nucleus by recalling:
a. their nature
b. their relative ionising effects
c. their relative penetrating abilities (β+ are not included, β-particles will be taken to refer to β-)
3 Describe the deflection of α-particles, β-particles and γ-radiation in electric fields and magnetic fields
4 Explain their relative ionising effects with reference to:
a. kinetic energy
b. electric charge
The Process of Radioactive Decay
1 Know that radioactive decay is a change in an unstable nucleus that can result in the emission of α-particles or β-
particles and/or γ-radiation and know that these changes are spontaneous and random
2 State that during α-decay or β-decay, the nucleus changes to that of a different element
3 Know that isotopes of an element may be radioactive due to an excess of neutrons in the nucleus and/or the nucleus
being too heavy
4 Describe the effect of α-decay, β-decay and γ-emissions on the nucleus, including an increase in stability and a
reduction in the number of excess neutrons; the following change in the nucleus occurs during β-emission neutron →
proton + electron
5 Use decay equations, using nuclide notation, to show the emission of α-particles, β-particles and γ-radiation
Background Radiation
1 Know what is meant by background radiation
2 Know the sources that make a significant contribution to background radiation including:
a. radon gas (in the air)
b. rocks and buildings
c. food and drink
d. cosmic rays
3 Know that ionising nuclear radiation can be measured using a detector connected to a counter
4 Use count rate measured in counts / s or counts / minute
5 Use measurements of background radiation to determine a corrected count rate
Safety Precautions
1 State the effects of ionising nuclear radiations on living things, including cell death, mutations and cancer
2 Describe how radioactive materials are moved, used and stored in a safe way
3 Explain safety precautions for all ionising radiation in terms of reducing exposure time, increasing distance between
source and living tissue and using shielding to absorb radiation

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 5

 6
Types of Radiation
The nucleus of an unstable isotope can emit three types of radioactive emissions.
This process is random and spontaneous.
Random: Amount of radiation emitted by a nucleus is not constant.
Spontaneous: Is not affected by external factors.
α-particles β-particles γ-rays
Nature 2 protons + 2 neutrons 1 electron electromagnetic wave
Relative mass 4 1/2000 0
Relative charge +2 -1 0
Atomic Notation 4 4 0 0 none
2𝐻𝑒 or 2𝛼 −1𝑒 or −1𝛽
Ionising power very strongly strongly very weakly
Range in air a few centimeters several meters several kilometers
Absorbed by sheet of paper thick aluminium very thick lead

Alpha particles are the most ionizing because they have the most mass, kinetic energy and electric charge.
Beta particles are less ionizing than alpha because they have less mass, kinetic energy and electric charge.
Gamma rays are very weakly ionizing because they have no mass, very little kinetic energy and no charge.
Deflection of Radiation in Electric and Magnetic fields

Process of Radioactive Decay

Define: A process where the nucleus of an unstable isotope emits radiation in order to become more stable, causing a
change in the nucleus.

Alpha Decay: 𝑨𝒁𝑿 → 𝟒𝟐𝜶 + 𝑨−𝟒

𝒁−𝟐𝒀 Nucleus loses 2 protons and 2 neutrons. Changes to a different element.
𝟎
Beta Decay: 𝑨𝒁𝑿 → −𝟏𝜷 + 𝒁+𝟏𝑨𝒀 Nucleus loses 1 neutron and gains 1 proton. Changes to a different element.
𝒏𝒆𝒖𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒏 → 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒕𝒐𝒏 + 𝒆𝒍𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒏
Gamma Decay: Has no equation. No change in nucleon or proton number.

Background Radiation
Define: Radiation that is present all around us in the environment, even in the absence of radioactive sources.
Sources of background radiation:
1. radon gas (in the air)
2. rocks and buildings
3. food and drink
4. cosmic rays
Radiation is measured using a detector connected to a counter, giving us readings in counts/s or counts/min.
Calculating corrected count rate: 𝒄𝒐𝒓𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒕 𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒆 = 𝒅𝒆𝒕𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒐𝒓 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 − 𝒃𝒂𝒄𝒌𝒈𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 5

 7
Safety Precautions
Radioactive emissions can cause:
1. cell death
2. mutations
3. cancer
Safety precautions taken when dealing with radioactive sources:
1. Increasing the distance between the source and any living tissue.
2. Reduce the exposure time as much as possible.
3. Radiation can be absorbed by using a shield or a screen (usually made of lead).
4. When storing or transferring radioactive substances, use lead or lead lined containers that are locked.

From June 2023 Paper 43

From June 2023 Paper 21

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 5

 8
Half-life
1 Define the half-life of a particular isotope as the time taken for half the nuclei of that isotope in any sample to decay;
recall and use this definition in simple calculations, which might involve information in tables or decay curves
(calculations will not include background radiation)
2 Calculate half-life from data or decay curves from which background radiation has not been subtracted
3 Explain how the type of radiation emitted and the half-life of an isotope determine which isotope is used for
applications including:
a. household fire (smoke) alarms
b. irradiating food to kill bacteria
c. sterilisation of equipment using gamma rays
d. measuring and controlling thicknesses of materials with the choice of radiations used linked to penetration and
absorption
e. diagnosis and treatment of cancer using gamma rays

Define Half-life: Time taken for half of the nuclei of an isotope to decay

Some isotopes have long half-lives (thousands of years) others have very short half-lives (a few seconds).
Finding Half-life from Graphs

*Note: When solving half-life questions, notice if the values include background or not. If background is part of the
value (detector reading), then you must remove the background count from all values before dividing to find half-life.

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 5

 9
Applications of Radioactivity
a. household fire (smoke) alarms: Uses alpha particles with a long half-life. A small radioactive source emits alpha
particles, which ionizes air particles in the detector. This allows a small current to flow between two plates in the
detector. When smoke enters, it absorbs the alpha particles, stopping the current and the alarm is triggered.

b. irradiating food to kill bacteria: Gamma radiation with a long half-life. Gamma radiation is used to kill bacteria in
canned foods to prolong shelf life.
c. sterilisation of equipment using gamma rays: Gamma radiation (sometimes beta) with long half-life. Used to kill
bacteria on medical equipment to ensure they are sterile.
d. measuring and controlling thicknesses of materials with the choice of radiations used linked to penetration
and absorption: Beta particles with a long half-life.
1. Beta particles pass through a sheet of material.
2. If the reading decreases more than normal, sheet
is too thick.
3. If the reading increases more than normal, sheet
is too thin.
e. diagnosis and treatment of cancer using gamma rays: for diagnosis, gamma rays with short half-life. Patients are
injected with this gamma source so it must have a short half-life. Gamma rays for treatment are used in the form of a
high-energy beam, aimed towards the cancerous tumor.

From June 2023 Paper 21

From March 2023 Paper 22

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 5

 10
From June 2023 Paper 42

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 5

 1

Cambridge IGCSE

Physics
Revision Guide 2024

Unit 6 Space Physics

Mohammed Ali
[Physics with Mo Ali]

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 6

 2
The Earth
1 Know that the Earth is a planet that rotates on its axis, which is tilted, once in approximately 24 hours, and use this to explain observations of
the apparent daily motion of the Sun and the periodic cycle of day and night

2 Know that the Earth orbits the Sun once in approximately 365 days and use this to explain the periodic nature of the seasons

3 Know that it takes approximately one month for the Moon to orbit the Earth and use this to explain the periodic nature of the Moon’s cycle of
phases

4 Define average orbital speed from the equation v = 2πr/T where r is the average radius of the orbit and T is the orbital period; recall and use
this equation

Earth
The earth is a planet.
The Earth rotates about its tilted axis once every 24 hours.
This explains the apparent motion of the Sun across the sky.
The earth orbits the Sun once every 365 days.
Seasons
The northern and southern hemispheres experience the opposite seasons.
When the northern hemisphere is summer (because it is closer to the Sun and
gets more daylight hours), the southern hemisphere is winter (because it is
farther from the Sun and gets less daylight hours).

Moon
The Moon is the only natural satellite of Earth.
It orbits planet Earth once every month.
Depending on where the moon is relative to the Earth, its phase changes.

Orbital Speed
𝟐𝝅𝒓
Calculating Orbital Speed: 𝒗 = (m/s)
𝑻

Where r is orbital radius, and T is the orbital period.

Orbital radius: distance between the center of the orbit and the object.
Orbital period: time taken for an obejct to complete one full orbit.

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 6

 3
From March 2023 Paper 42 Question 10

From March 2023 Paper 22

From June 2023 Paper 42 Question 10

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 6

 4
The Solar System
1 Describe the Solar System as containing:
a. one star, the Sun
b. the eight named planets and know their order from the Sun
c. minor planets that orbit the Sun, including dwarf planets such as Pluto and asteroids in the asteroid belt
d. moons, that orbit the planets
e. smaller Solar System bodies, including comets and natural satellites

2 Know that, in comparison to each other, the four planets nearest the Sun are rocky and small and the four planets furthest from the Sun are
gaseous and large, and explain this difference by referring to an accretion model for Solar System formation, to include:
a. the model’s dependence on gravity
b. the presence of many elements in interstellar clouds of gas and dust
c. the rotation of material in the cloud and the formation of an accretion disc

3 Know that the strength of the gravitational field

a. at the surface of a planet depends on the mass of the planet
b. around a planet decreases as the distance from the planet increases

4 Calculate the time it takes light to travel a significant distance such as between objects in the Solar System

5 Know that the Sun contains most of the mass of the Solar System and this explains why the planets orbit the Sun

6 Know that the force that keeps an object in orbit around the Sun is the gravitational attraction of the Sun

7 Know that planets, minor planets and comets have elliptical orbits, and recall that the Sun is not at the centre of the elliptical orbit, except
when the orbit is approximately circular

8 Analyse and interpret planetary data about orbital distance, orbital duration, density, surface temperature and uniform gravitational field
strength at the planet’s surface

9 Know that the strength of the Sun’s gravitational field decreases and that the orbital speeds of the planets decrease as the distance from the Sun
increases

10 Know that an object in an elliptical orbit travels faster when closer to the Sun and explain this using the conservation of energy

The Solar System

Our Solar System contains:
a. one star, the Sun
b. the eight named planets and know their order from the Sun
c. minor planets that orbit the Sun, including dwarf planets such as Pluto and asteroids in the asteroid belt
d. moons, that orbit the planets
e. smaller Solar System bodies, including comets and natural satellites

The four planets closest to the Sun and small and rocky.
The four planets farthest from the Sun are large and gaseous.

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 6

 5
Explaining the formation of planets in the Solar System:
1. Solar systems begin as a swirling ball of dust and gas called a nebula
2. Gravity pulls mass to the centre forming a protostar. This becomes a stable star when the inward force of
gravity is equal to the outward force of the heat from the star (Sun).
3. The mass which was not pulled to the centre spins in a flat disc called the accretion disc.
4. Gravity pulls this dust and gas to make larger rocks that orbit the Sun, called protoplanets, which then form
planets.
Why are the four planets closest to the Sun small and rocky? Why are the four planets farthest from the Sun
large and gaseous?
Heat from the Sun (solar winds) forced the lighter elements further away. So, the closer planets were formed of
heavier and rocky elements. The farther planets were formed mostly of gases.

Gravitational Field Strength

Define Gravitational Field Strength: Force per unit mass acting on an object in the field.
Gravitational Field Strength of a planet or star depends on two things:
1. Mass. The greater the mass, the greater the field strength on the surface of the planet.
2. Distance. The larger the distance from the planet, the weaker the field strength.
The Sun contains most of the mass of the Solar System, which is why it has the strongest gravitational field strength,
and why all planets orbit the Sun.

Shape of Orbits
Planets, minor planets and comets have elliptical orbits around the Sun. The Sun is not exactly
in the center, unless the orbit is nearly circular.
The closer a planet is to the Sun, the stronger the gravitational force and the greater its speed.
The farther a planet is from the Sun, the weaker the gravitational force and the lower its speed.

Analyzing planetary data

orbital distance: The larger the distance, the weaker the gravitational attraction to the Sun.
density: The lower the density, the larger the size of the planet (Gas giants have low density and a large volume)
surface temperature: Generally, the farther away a planet is, the cooler the range of surface temperatures the planet
has. The color of the surface and the atmosphere can affect temperature. White and black surfaces affect radiation.
Planets without an atmosphere cannot retain heat, heating up and cooling down quickly.
uniform gravitational field strength: The greater the gravitational field strength on the surface, the greater the mass
of the planet.

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 6

 6
From June 2023 Paper 41 Question 10

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 6

 7
From June 2023 Paper 43 Question 9

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 6

 8

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 6

 9
Stars
1 Know that the Sun is a star of medium size, consisting mostly of hydrogen and helium, and that it radiates most of its energy in the infrared,
visible and ultraviolet regions of the electromagnetic spectrum

2 Know that stars are powered by nuclear reactions that release energy and that in stable stars the nuclear reactions involve the fusion of
hydrogen into helium

3 State that:
a. galaxies are each made up of many billions of stars
b. the Sun is a star in the galaxy known as the Milky Way
c. other stars that make up the Milky Way are much further away from the Earth than the Sun is from the Earth
d. astronomical distances can be measured in light-years, where one light-year is the distance travelled in (the vacuum of) space by light in one
year

4 Know that one light-year is equal to 9.5 × 1015 m

5 Describe the life cycle of a star

The Sun
Is a star of medium size, consisting mostly of hydrogen and helium, and that it radiates most of its energy in the
infrared, visible and ultraviolet regions of the electromagnetic spectrum.
Stars are powered by nuclear reactions that release energy and that in stable stars the nuclear reactions involve the
fusion of hydrogen into helium.
A star is stable when the inward force of gravity = the outward force of the heat from the fusion reaction.

Galaxies
a. galaxies are each made up of many billions of stars
b. the Sun is a star in the galaxy known as the Milky Way.
c. other stars that make up the Milky Way are much further away from the Earth than the Sun is from the Earth

Distances in Space (Lightyear)

Define lightyear: distance travelled by light in space in one year (365 days) 𝟏 𝒍𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒚𝒆𝒂𝒓 = 𝟗. 𝟓 × 𝟏𝟎𝟏𝟓 𝒎

Reminder: Light travels at a speed of 𝟑 × 𝟏𝟎𝟖 𝒎/𝒔 in space.

Life cycle of a star

a. a star is formed from interstellar clouds of gas and dust that contain hydrogen
b. a protostar is an interstellar cloud collapsing and increasing in temperature as a result of its internal gravitational
attraction
c. a protostar becomes a stable star when the inward force of gravitational attraction is balanced by an outward force
due to the high temperature in the centre of the star
d. all stars eventually run out of hydrogen as fuel for the nuclear reaction
e. most stars (medium sized) expand to form red giants and more massive stars expand to form red supergiants when
most of the hydrogen in the centre of the star has been converted to helium
f. a red giant from a less massive star forms a planetary nebula with a white dwarf star at its centre
g. a red supergiant explodes as a supernova, forming a nebula containing hydrogen and new heavier elements, leaving
behind a neutron star or a black hole at its centre
h. the nebula from a supernova may form new stars with orbiting planets

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 6

 10

From March 2023 Paper 22

From June 2023 Paper 42 Question 10

From June 2023 Paper 21

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 6

 11
From November 2023 Paper 42

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 6

 12
The Universe
1 Know that the Milky Way is one of many billions of galaxies making up the Universe and that the diameter of the Milky Way is approximately
100 000 light-years

2 Describe redshift as an increase in the observed wavelength of electromagnetic radiation emitted from receding stars and galaxies

3 Know that the light emitted from distant galaxies appears redshifted in comparison with light emitted on the Earth

4 Know that redshift in the light from distant galaxies is evidence that the Universe is expanding and supports the Big Bang Theory

5 Know that microwave radiation of a specific frequency is observed at all points in space around us and is known as cosmic microwave
background radiation (CMBR)

6 Explain that the CMBR was produced shortly after the Universe was formed and that this radiation has been expanded into the microwave
region of the electromagnetic spectrum as the Universe expanded

7 Know that the speed v at which a galaxy is moving away from the Earth can be found from the change in wavelength of the galaxy’s starlight
due to redshift

8 Know that the distance of a far galaxy d can be determined using the brightness of a supernova in that galaxy

9 Define the Hubble constant H0 as the ratio of the speed at which the galaxy is moving away from the Earth to its distance from the Earth; recall
and use the equation H0 = v/d

10 Know that the current estimate for H0 is 2.2 × 10-18 per second

11 Know that the equation d/v = 1/H0 represents an estimate for the age of the Universe and that this is evidence for the idea that all the matter in
the Universe was present at a single point

The Milky Way

The Milky way is 100, 000 light years in diameter. There are billions of galaxies in
the universe.

Redshift
Define redshift: increase in the observed wavelength of electromagnetic radiation
emitted from receding stars and galaxies
*Note: This is evidence that the distance between distant galaxies is increasing, thus the Universe is expanding.
The faster the receding star (galaxy), the more the wavelength is redshifted.

CMBR (Cosmic Microwave Background Radiation)

Define CMBR: Microwave radiation of a specific frequency is observed at all points in space around us.
*Note: CMBR was produced shortly after the Universe was formed and that this radiation has been expanded into the
microwave region of the electromagnetic spectrum as the Universe expanded.

Hubble Constant
Define Hubble Constant: the ratio of the speed v at which the galaxy is moving away from the Earth to its distance d
from the Earth.
𝒗
Calculating Hubble Constant: 𝑯𝒐 = 𝒅 (per second) 𝑯𝒐= 𝟐. 𝟐 × 𝟏𝟎−𝟏𝟖 𝒑𝒆𝒓 𝒔𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒅

The speed v at which a galaxy is moving away from the Earth can be found from the change in wavelength of the
galaxy’s starlight due to redshift.
The distance of a far galaxy d can be determined using the brightness of a supernova in that galaxy.
𝒅 𝟏
Age of the Universe: 𝒗 = 𝑯 represents an estimate for the age of the Universe and that this is evidence for the idea
𝒐
that all the matter in the Universe was present at a single point.

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 6

 13
From March 2023 Paper 42 Question 10

From March 2023 Paper 22

From June 2023 Paper 42 Question 10

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 6

 14
From June 2023 Paper 43 Question 10

From November 2023 Paper 43 Question 10

Cambridge IGCSE Physics Revision Guide by Mo Ali – Unit 6