IB past paper analysis

Physics SL
May 2026 · Paper 2 · TZ3

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  • 5questions
  • 50marks
  • 25question parts
  • 15micro-topics

What this paper tests

Mark distribution

  • Fields22%
  • Space, time and motion20%
  • Wave behaviour20%
  • Nuclear and quantum physics20%
  • The particulate nature of matter18%

Hardest areas (by marks)

    Question types

    explain / justify: 32%find / solve: 28%show that / prove: 24%write down / state: 8%24%
    • explain / justify32%
    • find / solve28%
    • show that / prove24%
    • write down / state8%

    24% of parts are show / prove.

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    Questions in this paper

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    Where to go next

    Good to know

    Can I download Physics SL May 2026 TZ3 Paper 2 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 TZ3 Paper 2?

    Fields 22% (typical 15%), Space, time and motion 20% (typical 19%), Wave behaviour 20% (typical 14%).

    How do I practise this paper without the paper?

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