“Equation triangles”

There are about 30 equations that you need to be able to use in the GCSE Physics course.

You are required to remember most of these equations as only a few are guaranteed to be included in the formula sheet for the examination. As it happens, the exam board has, so far, provided most of the equations in Foundation Tier papers – even the ones you are expected to remember – but you must not assume that will always be the case.

As well as remembering the equations, you must also be able to select and use them. This means you need to know what the words or symbols in each equation mean, what the units are for each item and how to rearrange the equations to solve them for different quantities.

“Equation triangles” work as a way both to memorise an equation and to solve the equation for any unknown quantity when you are given the other values. They aren’t great physics but they are a really useful way to learn and use equations for people who like to process information visually.

Rather than writing a long post about this topic, I’ve attached a sheet that gives all the equations you will need in triangle form. Actually, it doesn’t include every equation: it only includes the ones that suit being presented in the triangle format.

To download the information sheet, click here.

You can also click here for an information sheet that explains the method for using “equation triangles”.