Mechanics
- Kinematics and Newton with a free-body diagram
- Circular motion
PAU Physics exam (Catalonia)
Marks go to the right principle plus SI units. A neat number with wrong units usually scores zero.
Catalonia Physics is a principles paper. Name the model in the first minute, then substitute.
Typical paper structure
- Linked parts a/b/c; you can often rescue (b) if you state the method.
- Mechanics, fields, waves/optics and modern physics appear often.
- Diagrams, axes and vector direction are required.
Blocks that keep coming back
Energy and momentum
- Mechanical energy with/without friction
- Collisions when they appear
Fields
- g and E, potential, Lorentz, Faraday
Waves, optics, modern
- v = λf
- Lens sign convention
- Photoelectric effect
Worked example: free fall and energy
A 2.0 kg mass is dropped from 5.0 m (g = 9.8 m/s²). Find the speed just before impact, no friction.
- mgh = ½mv² → v = √(2gh) ≈ 9.9 m/s downward.
- Check units: √(m/s² · m) = m/s.
v ≈ 9.9 m/s downward.
Worked example: point-charge field
q = +4.0 μC at the origin. E at (0.30 m, 0)? k = 9.0×10⁹.
- E = k|q|/r² = 4.0×10⁵ N/C along +x.
- A magnitude without direction is incomplete.
E = 4.0×10⁵ N/C in the +x direction.
Common mark-losers
- Degrees vs radians
- Missing force on a free-body diagram
- Wrong potential-energy sign
Where marks disappear
- Missing SI units
- Vector without direction
- Changing g to 10 when 9.8 is given
Eight-week Physics plan
Every problem starts with a sketch. Stretch weeks 1–2 if the syllabus is still open.
Weeks 1–2
Mechanics and free-body diagrams.
Week 3
Energy and work.
Weeks 4–5
Gravitational and electric fields.
Week 6
Magnetism, waves, optics.
Week 7
Modern physics plus a full mock.
Week 8
Only failed types. SI units to the end.
LETSE method
- Data → principle → equation → units → direction
- Groups of 6 in Tortosa or live online
FAQ
Memorise every formula?
Recognise the principle, then apply it.
Do you teach this in Tortosa?
Yes, small groups, mocks and online options.
Scientific calculator?
Yes — only a model on that sitting’s official list.
Does Physics weight many science degrees?
Yes. Check the official weighting table, then use the grade calculator.
Want marked problems?
PAU Physics in Tortosa and online.