Edexcel A Level Physics (9PH0) Past Papers 2026

Advanced Physics I

Duration: 1h 45m

Advanced Physics II

Duration: 1h 45m

General and Practical Principles in Physics

Duration: 2h 30m

Free-body force diagrams — direction, completeness, and equilibrium condition

This free-body force diagram was only completed successfully by a minority of candidates. Common errors included drawing a force in the wrong direction and failing to recognise that the third force must produce equilibrium.

Paper 1

Vector diagrams for momentum — labelling both objects before and after

Only a minority of candidates realised that there were two objects moving before the collision and the same two objects were moving after the collision. The most common answer was to draw a single line to represent two separate vectors.

Paper 1

Internal resistance and terminal potential difference

Most candidates failed to realise that although the potential difference across the bulb would be a little less than 12 V, the resistance of the bulb would still be its working resistance. Many also confused terminal p.d. with e.m.f., or used incorrect p.d. values.

Paper 3

Combining uncertainties in products, quotients, and powers

Most candidates seemed to be unaware that when measurements are added or subtracted in a calculation the uncertainty for each measurement is added to calculate the total uncertainty. These rules are explicitly stated in Appendix 10 of the specification.

Paper 3

Conditions for nuclear fusion — precise description vs explanation confusion

A fairly common reason for not scoring was that candidates stated 'high temperature' rather than 'very high temperature'. Candidates should remind themselves of the requirements indicated by different command words, such as 'describe' versus 'explain'.

Paper 2

Definitions of 'random' and 'spontaneous' radioactive decay

The majority of responses scored 0 or 1 mark only. MP2 was frequently not awarded due to candidates saying 'it cannot be predicted' without clarifying what 'it' was, eg when the next nuclei will decay.

Paper 2

Standing waves — amplitude, position of antinodes, and superposition terminology

MP2 was sometimes not awarded as the candidate had used the term 'superimpose', which is not correct. MP4 was frequently not scored for not referencing the location of the antinode/nodes. Many used 'superimpose' (incorrect) instead of 'superpose' (correct).

Paper 2

Parallel circuits and the effect of adding a branch on terminal p.d.

It is clear from the responses seen that candidates struggle with the concepts involved in parallel circuits, with most candidates having a vague recollection of current splitting at a junction from their GCSE knowledge which they then erroneously applied.

Paper 3