In IB Physics First Assessment 2016, Newton’s law of gravitation is a subtopic of Topic 6, circular motion and gravitation. This subtopic has the following understandings associated with it.

  1. Newton’s law of gravitation
  2. Gravitational field strength

In this part of the analysis, I am particularly interested in “What is the frequency distribution of the questions concerning Newton’s law of gravitation understandings?”

Frequency distribution of questions by Newton’s law of gravitation understandings for HL

Between 1999-2023

For the entire dataset for HL, the number of questions is balanced between Newton’s law of gravitation and gravitational field strength.

frequency_distribution_questions_IB_Physics_subtopic_20_Newton’s_law_of_gravitation_HL_1999_2023

Figure 1

Between 2016-2023

Between these years, the distribution shifted towards an increased emphasis on Newton’s law of gravitation.

frequency_distribution_questions_IB_Physics_subtopic_20_Newton’s_law_of_gravitation_HL_2016_2023

Figure 2

Frequency distribution of questions by Newton’s law of gravitation understandings for SL

Between 1999-2023

For the entire dataset for SL, gravitational field strength was emphasized more than Newton’s law of gravitation.

frequency_distribution_questions_IB_Physics_subtopic_20_Newton’s_law_of_gravitation_SL_1999_2023

Figure 3

Between 2016-2023

Between these years, the two understandings were equally frequently assessed.

frequency_distribution_questions_IB_Physics_subtopic_20_Newton’s_law_of_gravitation_SL_2016_2023

Figure 4

Where to go from here?

You may want to check out the other related subtopics:

  1. Circular motion
  2. Newton’s law of gravitation

If you are interested in more detailed analyses of the topics:

  1. Measurement and uncertainties
  2. Mechanics
  3. Thermal physics
  4. Waves
  5. Electricity and magnetism
  6. Circular motion and gravitation
  7. Atomic, nuclear and particle physics
  8. Energy production
  9. Wave phenomena
  10. Fields
  11. Electromagnetic induction
  12. Quantum and nuclear physics

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