IB past paper analysis

Physics SL
Specimen 2025 · Paper 2

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  • 7questions
  • 50marks
  • 25question parts
  • 16micro-topics

Mark distribution

  • Fields34%
  • Nuclear and quantum physics28%
  • Space, time and motion18%
  • The particulate nature of matter10%
  • Wave behaviour10%

Hardest areas (by marks)

  1. 1.Newton's laws of motion (F = ma)3 marks
  2. 2.Half-life, activity and background radiation3 marks
  3. 3.Stefan-Boltzmann and Wien laws for stars3 marks

Question types

find / solve: 24%show that / prove: 24%write down / state: 16%outline: 12%24%
  • find / solve24%
  • show that / prove24%
  • write down / state16%
  • outline12%

24% of parts are show / prove.

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Questions in this paper

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Explore topic pages

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Predicted questions

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Good to know

Can I download Physics SL Specimen 2025 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 Specimen 2025 Paper 2?

Fields 34% (typical 17%), Nuclear and quantum physics 28% (typical 18%), Space, time and motion 18% (typical 16%).

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.