UK · Subject guide
Physics
A-Level Physics (AQA 7408), against the DfE/Ofqual subject content.
01 · Overview
Physics
A-Level Physics (AQA 7408), against the DfE/Ofqual subject content.
- Subject guide
- A-Levels
- Topics mapped
- 13
02 · Complete topic map
Complete topic map
Every topic recorded for this subject in the curriculum is reproduced below in its full hierarchy. The descriptions reflect the mapped scope without implying additional exam rules.
- 01
Measurements and their errors
Covers SI units, the use of significant figures, estimation, and the treatment of measurement uncertainty and experimental errors across physics.
- 02
Particles and radiation
Introduces the constituents of the atom, fundamental particles, antiparticles, the four forces, the photoelectric effect, and energy levels in atoms.
- 03
Waves
Examines progressive and stationary waves, wave properties such as interference and diffraction, refraction, and the behaviour of light through optical fibres.
- 04
Mechanics and materials
Deals with forces, moments, motion under gravity, Newton's laws, momentum, work, energy, power, and the mechanical properties of materials including stress and strain.
- 05
Electricity
Covers current, potential difference, resistance and resistivity, electrical circuits, electromotive force, internal resistance, and the behaviour of components.
- 06
Further mechanics and thermal physics
A-level content on circular motion, simple harmonic motion, thermal energy transfer, the gas laws, and the kinetic theory of ideal gases.
- 07
Fields and their consequences
A-level study of gravitational, electric and magnetic fields, capacitance, and electromagnetic induction, treating fields in a unified way.
- 08
Nuclear physics
A-level content on radioactivity, nuclear decay and stability, nuclear radius, mass-energy equivalence, and nuclear fission and fusion.
- 09
Astrophysics (optional)
Optional A-level module on optical and non-optical telescopes, stellar classification, distance measurement, and cosmology including the expanding universe.
- 10
Medical physics (optional)
Optional A-level module on the physics of the eye and ear, biological measurement, and medical imaging techniques such as X-rays, ultrasound and MRI.
- 11
Engineering physics (optional)
Optional A-level module on rotational dynamics, moment of inertia, angular momentum, and thermodynamics including engine cycles and the second law.
- 12
Turning points in physics (optional)
Optional A-level module exploring landmark discoveries such as the electron, wave-particle duality, and special relativity and their impact on physics.
- 13
Electronics (optional)
Optional A-level module on discrete semiconductor devices, analogue and digital signals, operational amplifiers, sensing systems, and signal processing.
03 · Where this subject applies
Where this subject applies
These pathways and regions are explicitly connected to the subject in the curriculum.
Pathways and specifications
AS-Level
Advanced Subsidiary — the first year of A-Level study (standalone or first half of the full A-Level).
A-Level (A2)
The full Advanced Level — AS content plus the second-year A2 content.
Nations and regions
All registered regions
04 · Official sources
Official sources
The public sources below are referenced directly by this subject or by one of its topics.
This editorial selection points to the relevant official bodies. Always confirm current requirements, dates and amendments with your school or college and the appropriate awarding organisation.
2
Public references
UK · EuraStudy Guides
Place this subject inside the complete curriculum.
Open the curriculum guide to see every subject and topic, or continue to EuraStudy Summa to begin working with the material.