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IB Physics HL · A.5 Galilean and special relativity

Postulates of special relativity for IB Physics HL

Postulates of special relativity is mapped to A.5 Galilean and special relativity in the IB Physics HL pathway. Use this public guide to see exactly where the concept fits, what to master, and which GioPhysics resource continues the study sequence.

A · Space, time and motionHL onlyGuide 2 of 5

Where this fits

A.5 Galilean and special relativity

Curriculum
IB Physics HL
Theme or group
Space, time and motion
Current framework
First assessment 2025

Galilean frames through Lorentz transformations, time dilation, and spacetime diagrams are Chapter 52.

Mastery checklist

Know what success looks like.

  1. 01

    Define postulates of special relativity in precise physics language.

  2. 02

    Choose and apply the mapped relationship with symbols, units, and assumptions stated.

  3. 03

    Explain how the result fits the wider syllabus topic and test whether it is reasonable.

Exam lens

Build, apply, check.

A.5 Galilean and special relativity is identified as HL only in this curriculum map. Build the concept first, then practise selecting a model, showing working, and checking the final result.

Teaching sequence

A.5 Galilean and special relativity

This syllabus point maps to 5 ordered concept guides.

  1. 01Galilean relativity and reference frames
  2. 02Postulates of special relativityCurrent guide
  3. 03Time dilation
  4. 04Lorentz transformations
  5. 05Spacetime diagrams

Continue on GioPhysics

Choose the right next step.

The curriculum context stays public. Lesson and presentation access follows the existing GioPhysics membership rules.

LearnOpen the mapped lessonPostulates of special relativityTeachOpen the presentationClassroom sequence for this conceptPractiseOpen problem applicationsEasy through expert problem pathwaysPlanOpen the full curriculum mapIB Diploma Programme Physics