Physical quantities and measurement techniques
Suggested starting targetChoose an instrument and repeated-measurement method for a physical quantity.
Check scope · page 12Preparing your learning workspace…
Cambridge IGCSE · 2026–2028 exams · official edition v2. Original concise targets, topic mapping and unit investigations.
Full official syllabusAnnotate a motion or force diagram, choose relevant quantities and check dimensions of the result.
Choose an instrument and repeated-measurement method for a physical quantity.
Check scope · page 12Interpret motion graphs and calculate speed using consistent units.
Check scope · page 13Distinguish mass from gravitational force and calculate weight.
Check scope · page 13Calculate density from mass and volume and plan a measurement method.
Check scope · page 14Use resultant force and force-extension evidence to predict motion or deformation.
Check scope · page 14Calculate a turning effect and explain balance about a pivot.
Check scope · page 15Relate centre-of-gravity position to stability of an object.
Check scope · page 15Trace energy stores and transfers in a physical system.
Check scope · page 16Calculate transferred energy when a force moves an object along its direction.
Check scope · page 17Compare energy resources using availability, reliability and environmental effects.
Check scope · page 17Calculate power as energy transferred per unit time.
Check scope · page 18Relate pressure to force and area in a stated situation.
Check scope · page 18Use a supplied heating dataset or particle diagram to explain one observed trend.
Compare particle arrangements and motion in the three states.
Check scope · page 18Explain observed behaviour using moving particles and collisions.
Check scope · page 19Explain changes in gas pressure using particle collisions and temperature.
Check scope · page 19Compare thermal expansion and explain a practical application.
Check scope · page 20Relate heating differences to energy input, mass and material.
Check scope · page 20Distinguish boiling from evaporation and interpret a heating curve.
Check scope · page 20Explain thermal transfer through a solid and compare conducting materials.
Check scope · page 21Explain a convection current using temperature and density changes.
Check scope · page 21Compare absorption and emission of infrared by different surfaces.
Check scope · page 21Choose insulation features using the three heat-transfer mechanisms.
Check scope · page 22Construct a wave or ray diagram and connect it with a measured quantity.
Connect frequency, wavelength and wave speed with a labelled wave diagram.
Check scope · page 22Use a normal and equal angles to construct a reflected ray.
Check scope · page 23Predict ray direction at a boundary and label incidence and refraction angles.
Check scope · page 24Construct a ray diagram and describe the image formed by a converging lens.
Check scope · page 24Explain how a prism separates white light into a spectrum.
Check scope · page 24Order the spectrum and connect a named band with a use or hazard.
Check scope · page 25Explain sound propagation and distinguish pitch from loudness.
Check scope · page 26Interpret a low-voltage circuit or magnetic-field diagram and justify a component choice.
Map a magnetic field and compare permanent with induced magnetism.
Check scope · page 27Use charge attraction and repulsion to interpret electrostatic observations.
Check scope · page 28Explain charge flow and choose how an ammeter is connected.
Check scope · page 28Explain an electrical driving effect and choose a voltmeter connection.
Check scope · page 29Use voltage-current data to calculate resistance and compare components.
Check scope · page 29Calculate electrical energy or power using suitable circuit quantities.
Check scope · page 29Draw and interpret a circuit using standard component symbols.
Check scope · page 30Predict current and voltage patterns in series and parallel circuits.
Check scope · page 30Explain how conductor voltage changes with resistance at constant current.
Check scope · page 31Identify electrical hazards and explain protective devices in a stated circuit.
Check scope · page 31Explain how changing magnetic conditions induce an electrical effect.
Check scope · page 32Predict the field pattern of a current-carrying wire or solenoid.
Check scope · page 32Predict force on a current-carrying conductor in a magnetic field.
Check scope · page 33Explain how forces create rotation in a simple electric motor.
Check scope · page 33Use the coil-turns ratio to compare primary and secondary voltages.
Check scope · page 33Analyse simulated count-rate data after background correction; discuss random variation.
Distinguish nucleus and electrons when describing an atom.
Check scope · page 34Use proton and nucleon numbers to compare nuclei and isotopes.
Check scope · page 34Distinguish background radiation from a sample using measured count rates.
Check scope · page 35Compare alpha, beta and gamma by penetration and ionising effect.
Check scope · page 35Describe random decay and interpret a nuclear change.
Check scope · page 36Use successive half-lives or a decay graph to predict remaining activity.
Check scope · page 36Explain how time, distance and shielding reduce radiation exposure.
Check scope · page 37Interpret a Solar System or stellar dataset and distinguish a model from a direct observation.
Connect rotation and revolution with day length and the year.
Check scope · page 37Compare Solar System objects and describe gravitational orbits.
Check scope · page 38Connect the Sun's composition with radiation and energy release.
Check scope · page 39Relate stellar and galactic distances using a light-year.
Check scope · page 40Relate the Solar System to the Milky Way and the wider population of galaxies.
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