IB past paper analysis

Physics HL
May 2026 · Paper 1 · TZ2

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  • 38questions
  • 58marks
  • 51question parts
  • 36micro-topics

Mark distribution

  • Experimental skills35%
  • Space, time and motion16%
  • Fields14%
  • Nuclear and quantum physics14%
  • Wave behaviour12%
  • The particulate nature of matter10%

Hardest areas (by marks)

  1. 1.Graphing: plotting, best-fit lines & gradients3 marks
  2. 2.Thermodynamic processes and heat engines2 marks
  3. 3.Conservation of momentum & collisions1 marks

Question types

find / solve: 41%identify: 28%write down / state: 18%explain / justify: 8%0%
  • find / solve41%
  • identify28%
  • write down / state18%
  • explain / justify8%

0% of parts are show / prove.

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Questions in this paper

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Predicted questions

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Good to know

Can I download Physics HL May 2026 TZ2 Paper 1 here?

No. The paper and its mark scheme belong to the IB and are not reproduced. This page gives the structure of every question (marks, command term, micro-topic, the skill tested), the exam analysis, and practice questions we wrote to test the same skills. Subscribers can also open our summary of how each part's marks are awarded.

Which topics dominate May 2026 TZ2 Paper 1?

Experimental skills 35% (typical 11%), Space, time and motion 16% (typical 20%), Fields 14% (typical 21%).

How do I practise this paper without the paper?

Press "Practise similar" on any question. We open questions matched by micro-topic, command term and mark range with model answers and AI marking, then bring you back here.