Physics

Course summary

This course will challenge you intellectually, and you will take an active role in the consideration of phenomena and the physical world around us. You will become more adept at problem solving and showing analytical skills, and enjoy learning the subject using a range of methods and techniques. The course will develop your interest in and enthusiasm for the subject, and open up routes to further study and careers associated with physics. Physics content is split into the following modules: Development of practical skills You will learn techniques for planning, implementing, analysis and evaluation. Particles and radiation An introduction to particle physics and quantum phenomena. Waves and optics Studying stationary and progressive waves, reflection, refraction and Young’s double slit experiment. Mechanics and materials This unit looks at moments, projectile motion, Newton’s laws, momentum and collisions and materials. Electricity Further mechanics We will look at circular motion, simple harmonic motion, thermal physics and gas laws. Fields Studying how gravitational and electric fields behave and capacitors and electromagnetic induction. Nuclear physics This units looks at radioactivity and the future of nuclear power. Optional unit One from astrophysics, medical physics, engineering physics, turning points in physics or electronics.