GCSE Physics equations practice
Select a relationship from the equation sheet, rearrange it and calculate with the right units.
GCSE Physics forces and motion questions
Calculate average speed and acceleration, then use F = ma.
Practise
Find accelerationVelocity changes from +8 to -7 m s⁻¹ in 5 s. Calculate the constant acceleration, including its sign. Give your answer to 3 significant figures.
One-dimensional motion with constant acceleration. Positive is the stated direction; displacement and velocity are signed. Air resistance is neglected in vertical motion.
Larger diagram
Work through the calculation
Check intermediate steps, then use your unrounded working for the final answer. Each numerical check uses 3 significant figures. These steps provide support; the main answer is checked separately.
Step 1
Find the signed change v − u. Give your answer to 3 significant figures.
Show this step
Subtract initial velocity from final velocity.
Answer: -15.0 m s⁻¹ (3 significant figures).
Step 2
Now calculate the final answer to the main question.
Show this step
Use a = (v − u)/t.
Answer: -3.00 m s⁻² (3 significant figures).
Treat the given values as exact unless an uncertainty is stated.
Hint
Use a = (v − u)/t.
Worked solution
- a = (-7 − 8) / 5 = -3 m s⁻².
- Answer: -3.00 m s⁻² (3 significant figures).
Question type: Mixed practice
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Foundation and Higher: this set covers content common to both tiers. Some calculations need several steps.
Speed, acceleration and force
Average speed uses the total distance travelled and elapsed time. For acceleration, subtract the initial velocity from the final velocity, keeping the stated positive direction. F = ma uses the resultant force. Force diagrams, two-dimensional resolution and momentum are outside this set.
GCSE scope
AQA 8463: 4.5.1.4; 4.5.6.1.2, 4.5.6.1.5, 4.5.6.2.2; OCR Gateway J249: P2.1; P2.2; PM2.1i–ii, PM2.2i. Tasks cover the selected skills listed above.