The Physics Question Bank

Required Practicals

✏️ Paper first! Work out every question on paper before you tap Show solution. Write down every step – the equation, the numbers with units, the rearranging and the answer with its unit. In the exam, if your final answer is wrong you can still get marks for correct working, but only if the examiner can see it.

AQA sets required practicals that you must know for the exam – questions can ask about the method, the variables, safety, errors and calculations from results. Each page has a short method, the variables, a link to the Free Science Lessons video and 8 exam-style questions with answers.

Key: C+S = Combined and Separate  |  S only = Separate Physics only

  1. Specific heat capacity (C+S)
  2. Thermal insulation (S only)
  3. Resistance (C+S)
  4. I–V characteristics (C+S)
  5. Density (C+S)
  6. Force and extension (C+S)
  7. Acceleration (C+S)
  8. Waves (C+S)
  9. Light: reflection and refraction (S only)
  10. Infrared radiation (C+S)

Tip: watch the video, then answer the questions on paper without looking back at the method. Exam questions often ask you to describe the method in 6 marks – practise writing it out in numbered steps.