Science: Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Earth
Core concepts
In physics, understand motion, force, work, energy, electricity and light, with their units. In chemistry, learn atomic structure, the periodic table, chemical reactions, acids and bases, and common compounds. In biology, revise cell structure, plant and animal systems, nutrition, respiration and reproduction. Earth and environment topics include the atmosphere, water cycle and pollution.
Traps to expect
- Confusing mass with weight, or speed with velocity.
- Mixing chemical and physical changes.
- Reversing the roles of arteries and veins, or of xylem and phloem.
- Choosing a correct-sounding statement that is not true for the specific organism or condition named.
Rule of thumb
For each concept, link a definition to one concrete example and one unit or formula. In multiple-choice items, eliminate options that contradict a known law or a standard unit.
Worked example
A body of mass 2 kg accelerates at 3 m/s². Using F = ma, force = 2 × 3 = 6 N. Note the unit is newton, not kilogram.