ESAT Physics: Complete Syllabus Explained Clearly
The ESAT Physics subtest is designed to assess your understanding of essential, standard-level physics concepts that form the foundation of scientific thinking.
It evaluates not just your ability to recall formulas, but also how well you apply principles to unfamiliar problems, interpret data, and reason logically under time pressure. The questions are based on topics you should have covered during your school education, making conceptual clarity far more important than rote learning.
A structured and strategic approach to ESAT Physics preparation can significantly improve accuracy, speed, and confidence in the exam. At Quest For Success, students receive expert-led guidance and focused preparation to master ESAT Physics effectively.
Overview of the ESAT Physics Subtest
The Physics subtest is one of four optional science sections in the ESAT and is taken after the Mathematics subtest. It consists of 27 multiple-choice questions, all based on the official ESAT specification.
The syllabus is divided into seven major topic areas, each testing key principles and problem-solving skills required for science-focused admissions.
Essential SI Units and Prefixes
Before starting your ESAT Physics revision, it is vital to memorise SI prefixes, as they are used across calculations in all subtests.
- Nano (n): 10⁻⁹
- Micro (µ): 10⁻⁶
- Milli (m): 10⁻³
- Centi (c): 10⁻²
- Deci (d): 10⁻¹
- Kilo (k): 10³
- Mega (M): 10⁶
- Giga (G): 10⁹
Strong familiarity with these units improves speed and accuracy in the exam.
Electricity and Circuit Concepts
Electricity is a core area of ESAT Physics and focuses mainly on circuit understanding.You must confidently read circuit diagrams and identify standard symbols such as cells, resistors, switches, and ammeters.
Key Definitions to Remember
- Circuit: A complete path for electric current
- Cell: A single chemical energy source
- Current: Flow of electric charge
- Resistor: Component that limits current
- Voltage: Energy difference between two points
Understanding the difference between series and parallel circuits is essential.
Important Electricity Formulae
- I = Q / t
- V = E / Q
- V = IR
- P = IV
- E = VIt
Electrostatics is also included. You should understand static charge, insulators, and associated safety risks.
Magnetism and Electromagnetic Effects
Magnetism in ESAT Physics extends beyond basic attraction and repulsion.
Key Magnetism Topics
- Magnetic poles and fields
- Induced magnetism
- Electromagnets and field strength
- Electromagnetic induction
The Motor Effect
A current-carrying conductor in a magnetic field experiences a force: F = BIL
This principle explains the working of DC motors.
Transformers
Transformers change voltage while keeping power constant:
N₁ / N₂ = V₁ / V₂
Transformers work only with alternating current (AC) and not direct current (DC).
Mechanics: Motion, Forces, and Energy
Mechanics forms a significant part of ESAT Physics.
Scalars and Vectors
- Scalars: Magnitude only (time, distance, speed)
- Vectors: Magnitude and direction (velocity, acceleration)
Core Motion Equations
- Speed = Distance / Time
- Acceleration = Change in velocity / Time
- v² − u² = 2as
You must also interpret velocity–time graphs accurately.
Forces, Elasticity, and Newton’s Laws
Forces explain how objects move and interact.
Common Forces to Revise
- Weight
- Friction
- Tension
- Drag
- Magnetic force
Hooke’s Law
F = kx –
This applies until the limit of proportionality is reached.
Newton’s Laws of Motion
All three laws are examinable and frequently tested through application-based questions.
Energy, Work, and Power
Energy concepts are central to ESAT Physics preparation.
Key Formulae
- Work done: E = Fd
- Power: P = E / t
- Kinetic Energy: KE = ½mv²
Energy efficiency is calculated as:
Efficiency = (Useful output / Total input) × 100
No energy transfer is ever 100% efficient.
Thermal Physics and Heat Transfer
Thermal Physics focuses on how heat moves between objects.
Methods of Heat Transfer
- Conduction
- Convection
- Radiation
You must also understand specific heat capacity:
E = mcΔT
Matter, Density, and Ideal Gases
Matter exists in three states: solid, liquid, and gas. Changes in state occur due to energy transfer.
Density and Pressure
- Density = Mass / Volume
- Pressure = Force / Area
Ideal Gas Equation
PV = nRT
Understanding the assumptions of ideal gases is essential for problem-solving.
Waves and Their Properties
Key Wave Terms
- Amplitude
- Wavelength
- Frequency
Wave Formulae
- Wave speed = Frequency × Wavelength
- Frequency = 1 / Period
You must understand transverse and longitudinal waves, along with reflection, refraction, and diffraction.
Radiation and Atomic Structure
This section links physics with atomic theory.
Atomic Structure
- Protons and neutrons in the nucleus
- Electrons in energy levels
Types of Ionising Radiation
- Alpha: Short range, highly ionising
- Beta: Medium penetration
- Gamma: High penetration, least ionising
Radioactive Decay and Half-Life
You must understand alpha, beta, and gamma decay processes.
Half-life questions are often based on exponential decay graphs, with background radiation taken into account.
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Final Thoughts
This guide covers all the core concepts of ESAT Physics, but students should always refer to the official specification for complete coverage.
At Quest For Success, students receive structured ESAT Physics preparation, expert guidance, and exam-focused strategies designed to build clarity and confidence.
If you are aiming for strong fundamentals and efficient revision, Quest For Success is your trusted partner for ESAT success.