Physics 30
Advanced physics covering momentum, optics, electrostatics, electric circuits, magnetic forces, and modern physics.
Quick Info
Exam Format
Multiple choice (20 questions) + Numerical response (15 questions) + Written response (3 questions)
Duration
2.5 hours
Sessions
January & June
Calculator
Approved Only Calculators
✅ Allowed in Exam Room
- ✓ Approved scientific calculator (non-CAS)
- ✓ Physics data sheet (provided at exam centre)
- ✓ Pencils, pens, and eraser
- ✓ Ruler and protractor
🚫 Not Allowed
- ✗ CAS-enabled calculators (see this page)
- ✗ Cell phones or electronic devices
- ✗ Personal notes or textbooks
General Exam Rules
- • Government-issued photo ID or valid school ID required at check-in
- • The physics data sheet is the only reference allowed
- • Arrive 15 minutes before exam start
- • Show full solutions (given, equation, substitution, answer with units) in written response
Study Tips:
Always start with a free-body diagram or sketch for any word problem.
Memorize key equations but also understand how to derive relationships between them.
Practice unit analysis (dimensional analysis) to catch errors in your calculations.
Draw ray diagrams by hand for optics
Review the physics data sheet provided and know how to apply every formula on it.
Make sure you know why formulas work, not just how to use them
Exam Tips:
For momentum problems, define a positive direction at the start and stay consistent.
Be extra careful with directions in Snell's Law and Coulomb's Law, as its very easy to make sign mistakes.
In written response: write given info, formula, substitution, and answer with units clearly.
Know when to use E = hf and E = hc/λ, they both describe photon energy
For circuit problems, simplify resistor combinations step-by-step before calculating.
Mark Weighting
Final mark = (school x 70 / 100) + (diploma x 30 / 100)
Diploma Exam Countdown
Next: Diploma Exam
60d
17h
2m
36s
Quick Access
Resources Available
📌 Official Source
For official released exams and the most up to date information about diplomas, visit the Alberta Education website.
Alberta Education - Diploma Exams⌚ Last updated
This subject was last updated on Saturday, September 5, 2026 at 10:57 p.m..