Edexcel GCSE Physics Key Terms

A fundamental, absolute unit of measurement that cannot be mathematically broken down into simpler units (e.g., kilogram, metre, second).

Another term for a multiplier used to convert a physical quantity into a different unit of measurement.

A unit obtained by combining base units, such as Newtons for Force.

The universally accepted standard system of measurement used globally in science to ensure consistency.

The SI base unit for mass, and the only SI base unit used in equations that inherently includes a prefix.

The decimal part of a number written in standard form, which must be a number greater than or equal to 1 and less than 10.

The factor, usually a power of 10, by which a base unit is multiplied when a prefix is attached.

A number rounded to the nearest power of 10, used to compare the scale of different values.

How close a series of measurements are to one another, often indicated by the number of significant figures used or limited by the resolution of the apparatus.

A letter placed before a unit to indicate a multiple or sub-multiple of that unit, scaling it by powers of ten.

The digit immediately to the right of the last required significant figure, used to determine whether to round up or stay the same.

A multiplier used to convert a quantity from one unit to another, such as 3600 for converting hours to seconds.

A fundamental unit of measurement defined by a physical constant, from which all other units are formed.

The digits in a measurement or calculation that carry meaningful information contributing to its precision.

The energy required to raise the temperature of 1 kg of a substance by 1 °C (or 1 K).

A mathematical notation used to express very large or very small numbers conveniently using powers of 10.

Standard multipliers (like kilo, mega, or milli) added to units to express very large or very small numbers easily.