Essential GCSE Physics Equations to Memorise

Introduction to GCSE Physics Equations

Physics is a fascinating subject that helps us understand the world around us, but many students find the maths tricky. Memorising key equations is crucial for your GCSE Physics exams. This guide covers the essential equations, provides practical examples, and includes tips for mastering them with ease.

Why Memorising Physics Equations Matters

In GCSE Physics, certain equations are provided in the exam, while others must be memorised. Knowing which equations fall into each category and understanding how to apply them confidently will help you tackle calculation questions effectively.

Key GCSE Physics Equations to Memorise

Here are the most important equations you need to memorise for your GCSE exams, categorised by topic:

1. Forces and Motion

• Speed = Distance ÷ Time
• Acceleration = (Final Velocity - Initial Velocity) ÷ Time
• Force = Mass × Acceleration

Example: If a car travels 120 metres in 10 seconds, its speed is:

Speed = 120 ÷ 10 = 12 m/s

2. Energy

• Work Done = Force × Distance
• Kinetic Energy = ½ × Mass × Velocity²
• Gravitational Potential Energy = Mass × Gravity × Height

Example: A 2kg object raised to a height of 5 metres has:

GPE = 2 × 9.8 × 5 = 98 J

3. Electricity

• Charge = Current × Time
• Voltage = Current × Resistance
• Electrical Power = Voltage × Current

Example: A circuit with 3A current and 10Ω resistance has:

Voltage = 3 × 10 = 30 V

4. Waves

• Wave Speed = Frequency × Wavelength

Example: A wave with a frequency of 50Hz and wavelength of 2m has:

Wave Speed = 50 × 2 = 100 m/s

Equations Provided in GCSE Exams

While you need to memorise many equations, some are provided in the exam paper. Make sure you're familiar with these and know how to use them. Check your exam board's specification (AQA, Edexcel, OCR) for a complete list.

Exam Technique Tips

• Write equations in full before substituting values. This reduces mistakes.
• Check your units carefully—convert if needed!
• Use significant figures correctly; GCSE Physics often requires answers to 2-3 significant figures.
• If you're stuck, write down what you know. You'll often spot how to proceed.

Practice Exercises

Test your knowledge with these questions:

1. A runner covers 200m in 25 seconds. What is their speed?
2. A 3kg ball is thrown at a velocity of 4m/s. Calculate its kinetic energy.
3. Find the wave speed for a frequency of 60Hz and a wavelength of 3m.

Answers:

• 1: Speed = Distance ÷ Time = 200 ÷ 25 = 8 m/s
• 2: KE = ½ × Mass × Velocity² = 0.5 × 3 × 4² = 24 J
• 3: Wave Speed = Frequency × Wavelength = 60 × 3 = 180 m/s

How RevisionGenie Can Help

Struggling to memorise and apply equations? Our AI tutors at RevisionGenie can provide personalised lessons and practice questions to boost your confidence. Check out our AI tutors and lessons for more support.