IB Physics SL S1.3.1 General mathematics

Practise the calculations that underpin physics questions, including substitution, rearrangement, logarithms and sensible rounding from tables or given data.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Objective
S1.3.1
Level
SL

Exam points

  • calculate missing table values or constants from formulas, then give answers to the stated number of s.f
  • apply logs, ratios or powers before using a best-fit equation from a graph or GDC output
  • show full substitution into equations and reject invalid assumptions when estimating a physical quantity

S1.3.1—General mathematics question 1

[Maximum number: 1]

A group of students is investigating refraction in a semi-circular glass block.

Light from a ray box enters the curved side of the block. The light passes through the block and leaves, refracted, at P .

The students vary the position of the ray box to obtain data to determine the refractive index of the glass. They use a protractor to collect values for the angles of incidence θi\theta_{i} and refraction θr\theta_{r} at P and record them on a table.

Figure for Question S1.3.1—General mathematics question 1 — IB Physics SL

Complete the table.

Table for Question S1.3.1—General mathematics question 1 — IB Physics SL
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