Overall Verdict & Exam Performance

The May/June 2026 examination series for Cambridge IGCSE Physics (0625) maintained a moderate level of demand across both Core and Extended tiers. The examination provided a wide-ranging appraisal of core principles, demanding both rigorous quantitative problem-solving and concise physical explanations using precise technical terminology.

Where the Marks Were Found

Mechanics and thermal physics contributed substantial weight across papers. In Paper 4 (Extended Theory), kinematics and energy stores featured prominently in early structured questions, requiring candidates to find areas under speed–time graphs and calculate kinetic and gravitational potential energy changes. Wave phenomena—specifically refraction, critical angle, total internal reflection, and wave speed relations \(v = f\lambda\)—alongside potential divider calculations with light-dependent resistors (LDRs) offered reliable calculation marks for well-prepared candidates.

Key Examiner Pitfalls & Common Errors

  • Unit Conversions & Rounding: In thermal questions involving \(\Delta E = mc\Delta\theta\) and power \(P = \frac{E}{t}\), failing to convert units (e.g., minutes to seconds or grams to kilograms when standard values are given) led to loss of compensatory marks.
  • Particle Descriptions: When describing particle arrangements and motion across states of matter, vague terms such as 'particles vibrate freely' or omitting mention of collisions and momentum changes when explaining gas pressure were penalized.
  • Ray Tracing Precision: Rays reflected in mirrors and converging lens diagrams frequently lost accuracy marks when normal lines, arrowheads, or exact intersection focal points \(F\) were omitted.
  • Electromagnetic Induction Concepts: Explaining why transformers fail under d.c. supply required explicit mention of the absence of a changing magnetic field.

Strategic Advice & Preparation

Ensure mastery over standard formula manipulation and always state base equations in algebraic form before substituting numerical values. In practical papers (Papers 5 and 6), pay strict attention to recording experimental quantities to consistent significant figures matching apparatus precision, and construct experimental plans with explicitly named independent, dependent, and controlled variables.