# WPH11 Mechanics Topic Questions

> Edexcel IAL WPH11: every Mechanics topic question from 23 papers (2019–2026), grouped by syllabus point. 548 questions, 1340 marks, with direct links into…

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Edexcel IAL · Physics · WPH11 · A Level

Every WPH11 Mechanics topic question from the 2018–current syllabus, drawn from 23 papers (2019–2026) and grouped by syllabus point. Each row opens a page listing the exact question numbers, marks and a direct link into the paper. These are questions by topic, not full papers, so you can revise one topic at a time.

- WPH11
- 25 subtopics
- 548 topic questions
- 23 papers
- 1,340 tagged marks
- [Back to Mechanics](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/)
- [All paper codes](https://www.examsci.com/topics/)

Core finding

**9 be able to use the equation …, and understand how to use this… is the most frequently assessed subtopic in Mechanics, with 100 topic questions and 299 marks across 23 papers.** 1 be able to use the equations for uniformly accelerated… follows with 73 topic questions and 207 marks. The topic contains 25 subtopics, 548 topic questions and 1,340 marks in total. Rows count only the parts tagged to that subtopic, keep the same colour in both charts and repeat paper count, tagged marks and year range in the native table.

## Topic question count and mark distribution

Subtopics are on the vertical axis and sorted from highest to lowest. Only the parts whose knowledge graph matches a subtopic are counted for it, and percentages are each row's share of the tagged total in that chart. A part tagged to several subtopics is counted in each bar, so the bars are not a partition of the topic total.

### Questions by subtopic

question items

- [9 be able to use the equation $\sum F=ma$, and understand how to use this equation in situations where m is constant (Newton's second law of motion), including Newton's first law of motion where $a=0$, objects at rest or travelling at constant velocity Use of the term 'terminal velocity' is expected.](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/9-be-able-to-use-the-equation-sum-f-ma-and-understand-how-to-use-this-equation-in/) (23 papers) — 100 · 11.4%
- [1 be able to use the equations for uniformly accelerated motion in one dimension: $s=\frac{(u+v)t}{2}$ $v=u+at$ $s=ut+\frac{1}{2}at^{2}$ $v^{2}=u^{2}+2as$](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/1-be-able-to-use-the-equations-for-uniformly-accelerated-motion-in-one-dimension-s/) (23 papers) — 73 · 8.3%
- [5 be able to resolve a vector into two components at right angles to each other by drawing and by calculation](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/5-be-able-to-resolve-a-vector-into-two-components-at-right-angles-to-each-other-by/) (23 papers) — 59 · 6.7%
- [16 be able to use the concept of centre of gravity of an extended body and apply the principle of moments to an extended body in equilibrium](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/16-be-able-to-use-the-concept-of-centre-of-gravity-of-an-extended-body-and-apply-the/) (23 papers) — 51 · 5.8%
- [7 understand how to make use of the independence of vertical and horizontal motion of a projectile moving freely under gravity](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/7-understand-how-to-make-use-of-the-independence-of-vertical-and-horizontal-motion-of/) (21 papers) — 49 · 5.6%
- [20 know, and understand how to apply, the principle of conservation of energy including use of work done, gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/20-know-and-understand-how-to-apply-the-principle-of-conservation-of-energy-including/) (23 papers) — 46 · 5.2%
- [14 know the principle of conservation of linear momentum, understand how to relate this to Newton's laws of motion and understand how to apply this to problems in one dimension](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/14-know-the-principle-of-conservation-of-linear-momentum-understand-how-to-relate/) (23 papers) — 39 · 4.4%
- [2 be able to draw and interpret displacement-time, velocity-time and acceleration-time graphs](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/2-be-able-to-draw-and-interpret-displacement-time-velocity-time-and-acceleration-time/) (20 papers) — 39 · 4.4%
- [12 know and understand Newton's third law of motion and know the properties of pairs of forces in an interaction between two bodies](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/12-know-and-understand-newton-s-third-law-of-motion-and-know-the-properties-of-pairs/) (22 papers) — 38 · 4.3%
- [15 be able to use the equation for the moment of a force, moment of force $=Fx$ where $x$ is the perpendicular distance between the line of action of the force and the axis of rotation](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/15-be-able-to-use-the-equation-for-the-moment-of-a-force-moment-of-force-fx-where-x/) (22 papers) — 37 · 4.2%
- [10 be able to use the equations for gravitational field strength $g=\frac{F}{m}$ and weight $W=mg$](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/10-be-able-to-use-the-equations-for-gravitational-field-strength-g-frac-f-m-and/) (18 papers) — 34 · 3.9%
- [18 be able to use the equation $E_{k}=\frac{1}{2}mv^{2}$ for the kinetic energy of a body](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/18-be-able-to-use-the-equation-e-k-frac-1-2-mv-2-for-the-kinetic-energy-of-a-body/) (22 papers) — 34 · 3.9%
- [21 be able to use the equations relating power, time and energy transferred or work done $P=\frac{E}{t}$ and $P=\frac{W}{t}$](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/21-be-able-to-use-the-equations-relating-power-time-and-energy-transferred-or-work/) (22 papers) — 34 · 3.9%
- [3 know the physical quantities derived from the slopes and areas of displacement-time, velocity-time and acceleration-time graphs, including cases of non-uniform acceleration and understand how to use the quantities](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/3-know-the-physical-quantities-derived-from-the-slopes-and-areas-of-displacement-time/) (20 papers) — 33 · 3.8%
- [19 be able to use the equation $\Delta E_{grav}=mg\Delta h$ for the difference in gravitational potential energy near the Earth's surface](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/19-be-able-to-use-the-equation-delta-e-grav-mg-delta-h-for-the-difference-in/) (20 papers) — 32 · 3.6%
- [13 understand that momentum is defined as $p=mv$](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/13-understand-that-momentum-is-defined-as-p-mv/) (22 papers) — 29 · 3.3%
- [17 be able to use the equation for work $\Delta W=F\Delta s$ including calculations when the force is not along the line of motion](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/17-be-able-to-use-the-equation-for-work-delta-w-f-delta-s-including-calculations-when/) (18 papers) — 29 · 3.3%
- [4 understand scalar and vector quantities and know examples of each type of quantity and recognise vector notation](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/4-understand-scalar-and-vector-quantities-and-know-examples-of-each-type-of-quantity/) (22 papers) — 29 · 3.3%
- [6 be able to find the resultant of two coplanar vectors at any angle to each other by drawing, and at right angles to each other by calculation](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/6-be-able-to-find-the-resultant-of-two-coplanar-vectors-at-any-angle-to-each-other-by/) (22 papers) — 29 · 3.3%
- [8 be able to draw and interpret free-body force diagrams to represent forces on a particle or on an extended but rigid body using the concept of centre of gravity of an extended body](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/8-be-able-to-draw-and-interpret-free-body-force-diagrams-to-represent-forces-on-a/) (18 papers) — 28 · 3.2%
- [22 be able to use the equations $efficiency=\frac{useful~energy~output}{total~energy~input}$ and $efficiency=\frac{useful~power~output}{total~power~input}$](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/22-be-able-to-use-the-equations-efficiency-frac-useful-energy-output-total-energy/) (19 papers) — 22 · 2.5%
- [11 CORE PRACTICAL 1: Determine the acceleration of a freely-falling object](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/11-core-practical-1-determine-the-acceleration-of-a-freely-falling-object/) (8 papers) — 11 · 1.3%
- [27 be able to use the Hooke's law equation, $\Delta F=k\Delta x$, where k is the stiffness of the object](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/27-be-able-to-use-the-hooke-s-law-equation-delta-f-k-delta-x-where-k-is-the-stiffness/) (1 papers) — 2 · 0.2%
- [32 be able to calculate the elastic strain energy $E_{el}$ in a deformed material sample, using the equation $\Delta E_{el}=\frac{1}{2}F\Delta x$, and from the area under the force-extension graph The estimation of area and hence energy change for both linear and non-linear force-extension graphs is expected.](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/32-be-able-to-calculate-the-elastic-strain-energy-e-el-in-a-deformed-material-sample/) (1 papers) — 2 · 0.2%
- [23 be able to use the equation density $\rho=\frac{m}{V}$](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/23-be-able-to-use-the-equation-density-rho-frac-m-v/) (1 papers) — 1 · 0.1%

### Marks by subtopic

marks

- [9 be able to use the equation $\sum F=ma$, and understand how to use this equation in situations where m is constant (Newton's second law of motion), including Newton's first law of motion where $a=0$, objects at rest or travelling at constant velocity Use of the term 'terminal velocity' is expected.](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/9-be-able-to-use-the-equation-sum-f-ma-and-understand-how-to-use-this-equation-in/) (23 papers) — 299 · 12.2%
- [1 be able to use the equations for uniformly accelerated motion in one dimension: $s=\frac{(u+v)t}{2}$ $v=u+at$ $s=ut+\frac{1}{2}at^{2}$ $v^{2}=u^{2}+2as$](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/1-be-able-to-use-the-equations-for-uniformly-accelerated-motion-in-one-dimension-s/) (23 papers) — 207 · 8.5%
- [5 be able to resolve a vector into two components at right angles to each other by drawing and by calculation](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/5-be-able-to-resolve-a-vector-into-two-components-at-right-angles-to-each-other-by/) (23 papers) — 175 · 7.2%
- [7 understand how to make use of the independence of vertical and horizontal motion of a projectile moving freely under gravity](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/7-understand-how-to-make-use-of-the-independence-of-vertical-and-horizontal-motion-of/) (21 papers) — 153 · 6.3%
- [20 know, and understand how to apply, the principle of conservation of energy including use of work done, gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/20-know-and-understand-how-to-apply-the-principle-of-conservation-of-energy-including/) (23 papers) — 151 · 6.2%
- [16 be able to use the concept of centre of gravity of an extended body and apply the principle of moments to an extended body in equilibrium](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/16-be-able-to-use-the-concept-of-centre-of-gravity-of-an-extended-body-and-apply-the/) (23 papers) — 149 · 6.1%
- [15 be able to use the equation for the moment of a force, moment of force $=Fx$ where $x$ is the perpendicular distance between the line of action of the force and the axis of rotation](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/15-be-able-to-use-the-equation-for-the-moment-of-a-force-moment-of-force-fx-where-x/) (22 papers) — 127 · 5.2%
- [19 be able to use the equation $\Delta E_{grav}=mg\Delta h$ for the difference in gravitational potential energy near the Earth's surface](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/19-be-able-to-use-the-equation-delta-e-grav-mg-delta-h-for-the-difference-in/) (20 papers) — 117 · 4.8%
- [18 be able to use the equation $E_{k}=\frac{1}{2}mv^{2}$ for the kinetic energy of a body](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/18-be-able-to-use-the-equation-e-k-frac-1-2-mv-2-for-the-kinetic-energy-of-a-body/) (22 papers) — 114 · 4.7%
- [10 be able to use the equations for gravitational field strength $g=\frac{F}{m}$ and weight $W=mg$](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/10-be-able-to-use-the-equations-for-gravitational-field-strength-g-frac-f-m-and/) (18 papers) — 110 · 4.5%
- [14 know the principle of conservation of linear momentum, understand how to relate this to Newton's laws of motion and understand how to apply this to problems in one dimension](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/14-know-the-principle-of-conservation-of-linear-momentum-understand-how-to-relate/) (23 papers) — 101 · 4.1%
- [12 know and understand Newton's third law of motion and know the properties of pairs of forces in an interaction between two bodies](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/12-know-and-understand-newton-s-third-law-of-motion-and-know-the-properties-of-pairs/) (22 papers) — 95 · 3.9%
- [17 be able to use the equation for work $\Delta W=F\Delta s$ including calculations when the force is not along the line of motion](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/17-be-able-to-use-the-equation-for-work-delta-w-f-delta-s-including-calculations-when/) (18 papers) — 85 · 3.5%
- [2 be able to draw and interpret displacement-time, velocity-time and acceleration-time graphs](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/2-be-able-to-draw-and-interpret-displacement-time-velocity-time-and-acceleration-time/) (20 papers) — 82 · 3.4%
- [13 understand that momentum is defined as $p=mv$](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/13-understand-that-momentum-is-defined-as-p-mv/) (22 papers) — 81 · 3.3%
- [21 be able to use the equations relating power, time and energy transferred or work done $P=\frac{E}{t}$ and $P=\frac{W}{t}$](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/21-be-able-to-use-the-equations-relating-power-time-and-energy-transferred-or-work/) (22 papers) — 73 · 3.0%
- [8 be able to draw and interpret free-body force diagrams to represent forces on a particle or on an extended but rigid body using the concept of centre of gravity of an extended body](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/8-be-able-to-draw-and-interpret-free-body-force-diagrams-to-represent-forces-on-a/) (18 papers) — 70 · 2.9%
- [3 know the physical quantities derived from the slopes and areas of displacement-time, velocity-time and acceleration-time graphs, including cases of non-uniform acceleration and understand how to use the quantities](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/3-know-the-physical-quantities-derived-from-the-slopes-and-areas-of-displacement-time/) (20 papers) — 67 · 2.7%
- [6 be able to find the resultant of two coplanar vectors at any angle to each other by drawing, and at right angles to each other by calculation](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/6-be-able-to-find-the-resultant-of-two-coplanar-vectors-at-any-angle-to-each-other-by/) (22 papers) — 64 · 2.6%
- [22 be able to use the equations $efficiency=\frac{useful~energy~output}{total~energy~input}$ and $efficiency=\frac{useful~power~output}{total~power~input}$](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/22-be-able-to-use-the-equations-efficiency-frac-useful-energy-output-total-energy/) (19 papers) — 52 · 2.1%
- [4 understand scalar and vector quantities and know examples of each type of quantity and recognise vector notation](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/4-understand-scalar-and-vector-quantities-and-know-examples-of-each-type-of-quantity/) (22 papers) — 30 · 1.2%
- [11 CORE PRACTICAL 1: Determine the acceleration of a freely-falling object](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/11-core-practical-1-determine-the-acceleration-of-a-freely-falling-object/) (8 papers) — 21 · 0.9%
- [27 be able to use the Hooke's law equation, $\Delta F=k\Delta x$, where k is the stiffness of the object](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/27-be-able-to-use-the-hooke-s-law-equation-delta-f-k-delta-x-where-k-is-the-stiffness/) (1 papers) — 9 · 0.4%
- [32 be able to calculate the elastic strain energy $E_{el}$ in a deformed material sample, using the equation $\Delta E_{el}=\frac{1}{2}F\Delta x$, and from the area under the force-extension graph The estimation of area and hence energy change for both linear and non-linear force-extension graphs is expected.](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/32-be-able-to-calculate-the-elastic-strain-energy-e-el-in-a-deformed-material-sample/) (1 papers) — 9 · 0.4%
- [23 be able to use the equation density $\rho=\frac{m}{V}$](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/23-be-able-to-use-the-equation-density-rho-frac-m-v/) (1 papers) — 5 · 0.2%

## Subtopic comparison matrix

Curriculum order is by syllabus number, then alphabetically. Every row links to the matching past-paper question list.

| Subtopic | Topic questions | Papers | Marks | Years | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| **[1 be able to use the equations for uniformly accelerated motion in one dimension: $s=\frac{(u+v)t}{2}$ $v=u+at$ $s=ut+\frac{1}{2}at^{2}$ $v^{2}=u^{2}+2as$](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/1-be-able-to-use-the-equations-for-uniformly-accelerated-motion-in-one-dimension-s/)** | 73 | 23 | 207 | 2019–2026 | [Open topic questions](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/1-be-able-to-use-the-equations-for-uniformly-accelerated-motion-in-one-dimension-s/) |
| **[2 be able to draw and interpret displacement-time, velocity-time and acceleration-time graphs](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/2-be-able-to-draw-and-interpret-displacement-time-velocity-time-and-acceleration-time/)** | 39 | 20 | 82 | 2019–2026 | [Open topic questions](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/2-be-able-to-draw-and-interpret-displacement-time-velocity-time-and-acceleration-time/) |
| **[3 know the physical quantities derived from the slopes and areas of displacement-time, velocity-time and acceleration-time graphs, including cases of non-uniform acceleration and understand how to use the quantities](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/3-know-the-physical-quantities-derived-from-the-slopes-and-areas-of-displacement-time/)** | 33 | 20 | 67 | 2019–2026 | [Open topic questions](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/3-know-the-physical-quantities-derived-from-the-slopes-and-areas-of-displacement-time/) |
| **[4 understand scalar and vector quantities and know examples of each type of quantity and recognise vector notation](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/4-understand-scalar-and-vector-quantities-and-know-examples-of-each-type-of-quantity/)** | 29 | 22 | 30 | 2019–2026 | [Open topic questions](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/4-understand-scalar-and-vector-quantities-and-know-examples-of-each-type-of-quantity/) |
| **[5 be able to resolve a vector into two components at right angles to each other by drawing and by calculation](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/5-be-able-to-resolve-a-vector-into-two-components-at-right-angles-to-each-other-by/)** | 59 | 23 | 175 | 2019–2026 | [Open topic questions](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/5-be-able-to-resolve-a-vector-into-two-components-at-right-angles-to-each-other-by/) |
| **[6 be able to find the resultant of two coplanar vectors at any angle to each other by drawing, and at right angles to each other by calculation](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/6-be-able-to-find-the-resultant-of-two-coplanar-vectors-at-any-angle-to-each-other-by/)** | 29 | 22 | 64 | 2019–2026 | [Open topic questions](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/6-be-able-to-find-the-resultant-of-two-coplanar-vectors-at-any-angle-to-each-other-by/) |
| **[7 understand how to make use of the independence of vertical and horizontal motion of a projectile moving freely under gravity](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/7-understand-how-to-make-use-of-the-independence-of-vertical-and-horizontal-motion-of/)** | 49 | 21 | 153 | 2019–2026 | [Open topic questions](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/7-understand-how-to-make-use-of-the-independence-of-vertical-and-horizontal-motion-of/) |
| **[8 be able to draw and interpret free-body force diagrams to represent forces on a particle or on an extended but rigid body using the concept of centre of gravity of an extended body](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/8-be-able-to-draw-and-interpret-free-body-force-diagrams-to-represent-forces-on-a/)** | 28 | 18 | 70 | 2019–2026 | [Open topic questions](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/8-be-able-to-draw-and-interpret-free-body-force-diagrams-to-represent-forces-on-a/) |
| **[9 be able to use the equation $\sum F=ma$, and understand how to use this equation in situations where m is constant (Newton's second law of motion), including Newton's first law of motion where $a=0$, objects at rest or travelling at constant velocity Use of the term 'terminal velocity' is expected.](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/9-be-able-to-use-the-equation-sum-f-ma-and-understand-how-to-use-this-equation-in/)** | 100 | 23 | 299 | 2019–2026 | [Open topic questions](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/9-be-able-to-use-the-equation-sum-f-ma-and-understand-how-to-use-this-equation-in/) |
| **[10 be able to use the equations for gravitational field strength $g=\frac{F}{m}$ and weight $W=mg$](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/10-be-able-to-use-the-equations-for-gravitational-field-strength-g-frac-f-m-and/)** | 34 | 18 | 110 | 2019–2026 | [Open topic questions](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/10-be-able-to-use-the-equations-for-gravitational-field-strength-g-frac-f-m-and/) |
| **[11 CORE PRACTICAL 1: Determine the acceleration of a freely-falling object](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/11-core-practical-1-determine-the-acceleration-of-a-freely-falling-object/)** | 11 | 8 | 21 | 2019–2025 | [Open topic questions](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/11-core-practical-1-determine-the-acceleration-of-a-freely-falling-object/) |
| **[12 know and understand Newton's third law of motion and know the properties of pairs of forces in an interaction between two bodies](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/12-know-and-understand-newton-s-third-law-of-motion-and-know-the-properties-of-pairs/)** | 38 | 22 | 95 | 2019–2026 | [Open topic questions](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/12-know-and-understand-newton-s-third-law-of-motion-and-know-the-properties-of-pairs/) |
| **[13 understand that momentum is defined as $p=mv$](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/13-understand-that-momentum-is-defined-as-p-mv/)** | 29 | 22 | 81 | 2019–2026 | [Open topic questions](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/13-understand-that-momentum-is-defined-as-p-mv/) |
| **[14 know the principle of conservation of linear momentum, understand how to relate this to Newton's laws of motion and understand how to apply this to problems in one dimension](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/14-know-the-principle-of-conservation-of-linear-momentum-understand-how-to-relate/)** | 39 | 23 | 101 | 2019–2026 | [Open topic questions](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/14-know-the-principle-of-conservation-of-linear-momentum-understand-how-to-relate/) |
| **[15 be able to use the equation for the moment of a force, moment of force $=Fx$ where $x$ is the perpendicular distance between the line of action of the force and the axis of rotation](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/15-be-able-to-use-the-equation-for-the-moment-of-a-force-moment-of-force-fx-where-x/)** | 37 | 22 | 127 | 2019–2026 | [Open topic questions](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/15-be-able-to-use-the-equation-for-the-moment-of-a-force-moment-of-force-fx-where-x/) |
| **[16 be able to use the concept of centre of gravity of an extended body and apply the principle of moments to an extended body in equilibrium](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/16-be-able-to-use-the-concept-of-centre-of-gravity-of-an-extended-body-and-apply-the/)** | 51 | 23 | 149 | 2019–2026 | [Open topic questions](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/16-be-able-to-use-the-concept-of-centre-of-gravity-of-an-extended-body-and-apply-the/) |
| **[17 be able to use the equation for work $\Delta W=F\Delta s$ including calculations when the force is not along the line of motion](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/17-be-able-to-use-the-equation-for-work-delta-w-f-delta-s-including-calculations-when/)** | 29 | 18 | 85 | 2019–2026 | [Open topic questions](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/17-be-able-to-use-the-equation-for-work-delta-w-f-delta-s-including-calculations-when/) |
| **[18 be able to use the equation $E_{k}=\frac{1}{2}mv^{2}$ for the kinetic energy of a body](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/18-be-able-to-use-the-equation-e-k-frac-1-2-mv-2-for-the-kinetic-energy-of-a-body/)** | 34 | 22 | 114 | 2019–2026 | [Open topic questions](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/18-be-able-to-use-the-equation-e-k-frac-1-2-mv-2-for-the-kinetic-energy-of-a-body/) |
| **[19 be able to use the equation $\Delta E_{grav}=mg\Delta h$ for the difference in gravitational potential energy near the Earth's surface](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/19-be-able-to-use-the-equation-delta-e-grav-mg-delta-h-for-the-difference-in/)** | 32 | 20 | 117 | 2019–2026 | [Open topic questions](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/19-be-able-to-use-the-equation-delta-e-grav-mg-delta-h-for-the-difference-in/) |
| **[20 know, and understand how to apply, the principle of conservation of energy including use of work done, gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/20-know-and-understand-how-to-apply-the-principle-of-conservation-of-energy-including/)** | 46 | 23 | 151 | 2019–2026 | [Open topic questions](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/20-know-and-understand-how-to-apply-the-principle-of-conservation-of-energy-including/) |
| **[21 be able to use the equations relating power, time and energy transferred or work done $P=\frac{E}{t}$ and $P=\frac{W}{t}$](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/21-be-able-to-use-the-equations-relating-power-time-and-energy-transferred-or-work/)** | 34 | 22 | 73 | 2019–2026 | [Open topic questions](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/21-be-able-to-use-the-equations-relating-power-time-and-energy-transferred-or-work/) |
| **[22 be able to use the equations $efficiency=\frac{useful~energy~output}{total~energy~input}$ and $efficiency=\frac{useful~power~output}{total~power~input}$](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/22-be-able-to-use-the-equations-efficiency-frac-useful-energy-output-total-energy/)** | 22 | 19 | 52 | 2019–2026 | [Open topic questions](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/22-be-able-to-use-the-equations-efficiency-frac-useful-energy-output-total-energy/) |
| **[23 be able to use the equation density $\rho=\frac{m}{V}$](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/23-be-able-to-use-the-equation-density-rho-frac-m-v/)** | 1 | 1 | 5 | 2025 | [Open topic questions](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/23-be-able-to-use-the-equation-density-rho-frac-m-v/) |
| **[27 be able to use the Hooke's law equation, $\Delta F=k\Delta x$, where k is the stiffness of the object](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/27-be-able-to-use-the-hooke-s-law-equation-delta-f-k-delta-x-where-k-is-the-stiffness/)** | 2 | 1 | 9 | 2026 | [Open topic questions](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/27-be-able-to-use-the-hooke-s-law-equation-delta-f-k-delta-x-where-k-is-the-stiffness/) |
| **[32 be able to calculate the elastic strain energy $E_{el}$ in a deformed material sample, using the equation $\Delta E_{el}=\frac{1}{2}F\Delta x$, and from the area under the force-extension graph The estimation of area and hence energy change for both linear and non-linear force-extension graphs is expected.](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/32-be-able-to-calculate-the-elastic-strain-energy-e-el-in-a-deformed-material-sample/)** | 2 | 1 | 9 | 2026 | [Open topic questions](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/32-be-able-to-calculate-the-elastic-strain-energy-e-el-in-a-deformed-material-sample/) |

## Browse every topic question

- [1 be able to use the equations for uniformly accelerated motion in one dimension: $s=\frac{(u+v)t}{2}$ $v=u+at$ $s=ut+\frac{1}{2}at^{2}$ $v^{2}=u^{2}+2as$](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/1-be-able-to-use-the-equations-for-uniformly-accelerated-motion-in-one-dimension-s/) — 73 question items · 23 papers — 207 marks · 2019–2026
- [2 be able to draw and interpret displacement-time, velocity-time and acceleration-time graphs](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/2-be-able-to-draw-and-interpret-displacement-time-velocity-time-and-acceleration-time/) — 39 question items · 20 papers — 82 marks · 2019–2026
- [3 know the physical quantities derived from the slopes and areas of displacement-time, velocity-time and acceleration-time graphs, including cases of non-uniform acceleration and understand how to use the quantities](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/3-know-the-physical-quantities-derived-from-the-slopes-and-areas-of-displacement-time/) — 33 question items · 20 papers — 67 marks · 2019–2026
- [4 understand scalar and vector quantities and know examples of each type of quantity and recognise vector notation](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/4-understand-scalar-and-vector-quantities-and-know-examples-of-each-type-of-quantity/) — 29 question items · 22 papers — 30 marks · 2019–2026
- [5 be able to resolve a vector into two components at right angles to each other by drawing and by calculation](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/5-be-able-to-resolve-a-vector-into-two-components-at-right-angles-to-each-other-by/) — 59 question items · 23 papers — 175 marks · 2019–2026
- [6 be able to find the resultant of two coplanar vectors at any angle to each other by drawing, and at right angles to each other by calculation](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/6-be-able-to-find-the-resultant-of-two-coplanar-vectors-at-any-angle-to-each-other-by/) — 29 question items · 22 papers — 64 marks · 2019–2026
- [7 understand how to make use of the independence of vertical and horizontal motion of a projectile moving freely under gravity](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/7-understand-how-to-make-use-of-the-independence-of-vertical-and-horizontal-motion-of/) — 49 question items · 21 papers — 153 marks · 2019–2026
- [8 be able to draw and interpret free-body force diagrams to represent forces on a particle or on an extended but rigid body using the concept of centre of gravity of an extended body](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/8-be-able-to-draw-and-interpret-free-body-force-diagrams-to-represent-forces-on-a/) — 28 question items · 18 papers — 70 marks · 2019–2026
- [9 be able to use the equation $\sum F=ma$, and understand how to use this equation in situations where m is constant (Newton's second law of motion), including Newton's first law of motion where $a=0$, objects at rest or travelling at constant velocity Use of the term 'terminal velocity' is expected.](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/9-be-able-to-use-the-equation-sum-f-ma-and-understand-how-to-use-this-equation-in/) — 100 question items · 23 papers — 299 marks · 2019–2026
- [10 be able to use the equations for gravitational field strength $g=\frac{F}{m}$ and weight $W=mg$](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/10-be-able-to-use-the-equations-for-gravitational-field-strength-g-frac-f-m-and/) — 34 question items · 18 papers — 110 marks · 2019–2026
- [11 CORE PRACTICAL 1: Determine the acceleration of a freely-falling object](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/11-core-practical-1-determine-the-acceleration-of-a-freely-falling-object/) — 11 question items · 8 papers — 21 marks · 2019–2025
- [12 know and understand Newton's third law of motion and know the properties of pairs of forces in an interaction between two bodies](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/12-know-and-understand-newton-s-third-law-of-motion-and-know-the-properties-of-pairs/) — 38 question items · 22 papers — 95 marks · 2019–2026
- [13 understand that momentum is defined as $p=mv$](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/13-understand-that-momentum-is-defined-as-p-mv/) — 29 question items · 22 papers — 81 marks · 2019–2026
- [14 know the principle of conservation of linear momentum, understand how to relate this to Newton's laws of motion and understand how to apply this to problems in one dimension](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/14-know-the-principle-of-conservation-of-linear-momentum-understand-how-to-relate/) — 39 question items · 23 papers — 101 marks · 2019–2026
- [15 be able to use the equation for the moment of a force, moment of force $=Fx$ where $x$ is the perpendicular distance between the line of action of the force and the axis of rotation](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/15-be-able-to-use-the-equation-for-the-moment-of-a-force-moment-of-force-fx-where-x/) — 37 question items · 22 papers — 127 marks · 2019–2026
- [16 be able to use the concept of centre of gravity of an extended body and apply the principle of moments to an extended body in equilibrium](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/16-be-able-to-use-the-concept-of-centre-of-gravity-of-an-extended-body-and-apply-the/) — 51 question items · 23 papers — 149 marks · 2019–2026
- [17 be able to use the equation for work $\Delta W=F\Delta s$ including calculations when the force is not along the line of motion](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/17-be-able-to-use-the-equation-for-work-delta-w-f-delta-s-including-calculations-when/) — 29 question items · 18 papers — 85 marks · 2019–2026
- [18 be able to use the equation $E_{k}=\frac{1}{2}mv^{2}$ for the kinetic energy of a body](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/18-be-able-to-use-the-equation-e-k-frac-1-2-mv-2-for-the-kinetic-energy-of-a-body/) — 34 question items · 22 papers — 114 marks · 2019–2026
- [19 be able to use the equation $\Delta E_{grav}=mg\Delta h$ for the difference in gravitational potential energy near the Earth's surface](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/19-be-able-to-use-the-equation-delta-e-grav-mg-delta-h-for-the-difference-in/) — 32 question items · 20 papers — 117 marks · 2019–2026
- [20 know, and understand how to apply, the principle of conservation of energy including use of work done, gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/20-know-and-understand-how-to-apply-the-principle-of-conservation-of-energy-including/) — 46 question items · 23 papers — 151 marks · 2019–2026
- [21 be able to use the equations relating power, time and energy transferred or work done $P=\frac{E}{t}$ and $P=\frac{W}{t}$](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/21-be-able-to-use-the-equations-relating-power-time-and-energy-transferred-or-work/) — 34 question items · 22 papers — 73 marks · 2019–2026
- [22 be able to use the equations $efficiency=\frac{useful~energy~output}{total~energy~input}$ and $efficiency=\frac{useful~power~output}{total~power~input}$](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/22-be-able-to-use-the-equations-efficiency-frac-useful-energy-output-total-energy/) — 22 question items · 19 papers — 52 marks · 2019–2026
- [23 be able to use the equation density $\rho=\frac{m}{V}$](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/23-be-able-to-use-the-equation-density-rho-frac-m-v/) — 1 question items · 1 papers — 5 marks · 2025
- [27 be able to use the Hooke's law equation, $\Delta F=k\Delta x$, where k is the stiffness of the object](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/27-be-able-to-use-the-hooke-s-law-equation-delta-f-k-delta-x-where-k-is-the-stiffness/) — 2 question items · 1 papers — 9 marks · 2026
- [32 be able to calculate the elastic strain energy $E_{el}$ in a deformed material sample, using the equation $\Delta E_{el}=\frac{1}{2}F\Delta x$, and from the area under the force-extension graph The estimation of area and hence energy change for both linear and non-linear force-extension graphs is expected.](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/mechanics/32-be-able-to-calculate-the-elastic-strain-energy-e-el-in-a-deformed-material-sample/) — 2 question items · 1 papers — 9 marks · 2026

## Other topics in WPH11

- [Materials 282 question items](https://www.examsci.com/topics/edexcel-ial/physics/physics-unit-1-wph11/materials/)

## Topic question rules and edge cases

**How many subtopics does Mechanics contain?**

This page lists 25 subtopics tagged to the current syllabus. They are ordered by syllabus number, then alphabetically, and each row opens a page of matching past-paper questions.

**How are the subtopic question and mark totals calculated?**

A multiple-choice question contributes one item and its marks to every subtopic it is tagged with. A structured question contributes one item per tagged part, and that part’s marks; untagged parts of the same question are not counted here. A part tagged to several subtopics therefore appears under each of them.

**Why do some subtopics have no numbered prefix?**

Practical-skills statements and some syllabus bullets are unnumbered. Numbered statements come first; unnumbered statements and ties are sorted alphabetically.

**Is the LaTeX rendered without JavaScript?**

Yes. Subtopics that contain formulas are converted to static KaTeX HTML during the build, and the KaTeX stylesheet is served from the same site.

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