IB past paper analysis

Physics SL
Specimen 2025 · Paper 2

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  • 7questions
  • 50marks
  • 25question parts
  • 15micro-topics

What this paper tests

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%sketch: 16%write down / state: 12%24%
  • find / solve24%
  • show that / prove24%
  • sketch16%
  • write down / state12%

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 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 15%), Nuclear and quantum physics 28% (typical 18%), Space, time and motion 18% (typical 19%).

How do I practise this paper without the paper?

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