PassNova has 16 free KS3 Science practice questions on Physics, each with a clear explanation. Practise them in the browser with instant feedback — 100% free, no sign-up, on any device. Updated for 2026.
Physics: example questions & answers
12 worked examples with answers and explanations below. Practise all 16 Physics questions free in the browser, with instant feedback on every answer.
What force pulls objects towards the Earth?
- AFriction
- BMagnetism
- CGravity✓
- DTension
Answer: Gravity is the force of attraction that pulls masses towards each other, e.g. towards Earth.
What is the unit of force?
- AJoule
- BNewton✓
- CWatt
- DMetre
Answer: Force is measured in newtons (N).
Friction is a force that:
- ASpeeds objects up
- BOpposes motion between surfaces✓
- CMakes things float
- DHas no effect
Answer: Friction acts against movement where two surfaces meet, slowing things down.
Which of these is a source of renewable energy?
- ACoal
- BOil
- CWind✓
- DNatural gas
Answer: Wind is renewable — it won't run out. Coal, oil and gas are non-renewable fossil fuels.
In a simple electric circuit, what provides the energy?
- AThe wire
- BThe cell or battery✓
- CThe switch
- DThe bulb
Answer: The cell or battery is the source of electrical energy that pushes the current.
A switch in a circuit is used to:
- AStore energy
- BTurn the current on or off✓
- CLight up
- DMeasure voltage
Answer: A switch opens or closes the circuit to stop or allow the flow of current.
Light travels:
- ASlower than sound
- BIn straight lines✓
- COnly in water
- DBackwards
Answer: Light travels in straight lines until it hits something that reflects or refracts it.
We see most objects because they:
- AProduce their own light
- BReflect light into our eyes✓
- CAre always glowing
- DAbsorb all light
Answer: Most objects don't make light; we see them when they reflect light into our eyes.
Sound is caused by:
- ALight waves
- BVibrations✓
- CGravity
- DHeat only
Answer: Sound is made by vibrating objects, which create sound waves that travel through a medium.
Sound cannot travel through:
- AAir
- BWater
- CA vacuum (empty space)✓
- DSolid walls
Answer: Sound needs particles to travel; in a vacuum there are none, so sound cannot pass.
Which planet is closest to the Sun?
- AEarth
- BVenus
- CMercury✓
- DMars
Answer: Mercury is the closest planet to the Sun in our Solar System.
What causes day and night on Earth?
- AThe Earth orbiting the Sun
- BThe Earth spinning on its axis✓
- CThe Moon's phases
- DClouds blocking the Sun
Answer: Earth rotates on its axis once a day; the side facing the Sun has day, the other has night.