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IB Physics practice questions.

834 exam-style questions with answers and explanations, organised by the official syllabus. Try the samples below, then practise the full bank free.

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Sample questions

Which of these is an SI base unit?

  • the newton (N)
  • kilogram
  • joule
  • watt

Answer: kilogram

The seven SI base units are kg, m, s, A, K, mol and cd. The newton, joule and watt are derived units.

In the kinetic theory of gases, the absolute temperature of an ideal gas is proportional to the average...

  • speed of the molecules
  • kinetic energy of the molecules
  • potential energy of the molecules
  • size of the molecules

Answer: kinetic energy of the molecules

Average translational KE = (3/2)kT, so temperature (in kelvin) is proportional to the average kinetic energy of the molecules.

In a transverse wave, the oscillations are...

  • exactly parallel to the direction of the energy transfer
  • perpendicular to the direction of energy transfer
  • always in a vacuum
  • always circular

Answer: perpendicular to the direction of energy transfer

Transverse waves oscillate perpendicular to the direction of travel (e.g. light, water surface). Longitudinal waves oscillate parallel (e.g. sound).

Two point charges of +1.0 μC each are separated by 0.10 m in vacuum (k = 8.99e9). What is the magnitude of the Coulomb force between them?

  • 0.90 N
  • 9.0 N
  • 0.090 N
  • 90 N

Answer: 0.90 N

F = kq₁q₂/r² = 8.99e9 × (1.0e-6)² / (0.10)² = 8.99e9 × 1e-12 / 0.01 ≈ 0.90 N.

Which type of ionising radiation is the most penetrating?

  • alpha
  • beta
  • gamma
  • they are equal

Answer: gamma

Gamma is the most penetrating (needs thick lead/concrete). Alpha is stopped by paper; beta by a few mm of aluminium.

Which of these is an SI base unit?

  • the newton (N)
  • kilogram
  • joule
  • watt

Answer: kilogram

The seven SI base units are kg, m, s, A, K, mol and cd. The newton, joule and watt are derived units.

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