Physics

Course summary

Physics is the study of the Universe—what it is made of, the forces that govern it and the energy within it. In year 12 students cover 5 contrasting topics. Particle physics looks at the fundamental forces that hold the universe together. Electricity builds on previous studies. Mechanics is the study of forces and motion. Waves are a means of transferring energy and we concentrate on light. The final section is about measurements and their errors, this is covered through practical work. In year 13 students cover 4 topics. Further mechanics and thermal physics, fields and their consequences, nuclear physics and astrophysics.