Physics is one of the most formula-based subjects in the GCSE science syllabus. Understanding and memorising key equations is essential to scoring high marks, especially because exam questions often combine calculations, units, and practical understanding. Whether you’re revising for AQA, OCR, or Edexcel, these seven Physics formulas form the core of the paper and should be practised thoroughly before the exam.
✅ 7 Essential GCSE Physics Formulas
1️⃣ Speed, Distance, and Time
v = s / t
(Where v is speed, s is distance, t is time)
2️⃣ Force, Mass, and Acceleration
F = m × a
(Where F is force in newtons, m is mass in kilograms, a is acceleration in m/s²)
3️⃣ Work Done, Force, and Distance
W = F × d
(Where W is work done in joules, F is force, d is distance moved in the direction of the force)
4️⃣ Kinetic Energy
Ek = ½ × m × v²
(Where Ek is kinetic energy in joules, m is mass, v is velocity)
5️⃣ Gravitational Potential Energy
Ep = m × g × h
(Where Ep is potential energy, m is mass, g is gravitational field strength, h is height)
6️⃣ Power, Energy, and Time
P = E / t
(Where P is power in watts, E is energy transferred in joules, t is time in seconds)
7️⃣ Electrical Power
P = I × V
(Where P is power in watts, I is current in amperes, V is potential difference in volts)
These equations cover motion, forces, energy, and electricity — key areas that regularly appear in GCSE Physics exams. Many questions test not only your ability to recall formulas but also to rearrange and apply them correctly, so practise using them in a variety of problem types.
How to Prepare for the GCSE Physics Exam
1. Know Which Formulas Are Given: Some equations appear on the official formula sheet, but others you must memorise. Always check your exam board’s formula list early.
2. Practise Rearranging Formulas: GCSE Physics papers often require rearranging equations. Make sure you can isolate any variable confidently.
3. Use Correct Units: Marks are frequently lost for unit errors. Always convert values into standard SI units before calculating.
4. Apply to Real-World Problems: Try to visualise what each formula represents — linking numbers to real situations improves understanding.
5. Create a Formula Flashcard Set: Review formulas daily, testing yourself on meaning, units, and rearrangement.
6. Practise Numerical Questions from Past Papers: This builds speed, accuracy, and familiarity with calculator work.
7. Review Mistakes Carefully: Analyse incorrect answers to understand whether the problem was formula recall, substitution, or unit conversion.
At STEMpro Academy, our expert science tutors help students master every Physics formula and its application through interactive online lessons, exam practice, and concept clarity sessions. With targeted feedback, mock tests, and topic-focused learning, students build the confidence needed to achieve top grades in GCSE Physics.
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