Physics

Course summary

Physics is a natural science based on experiments, measurements and mathematical analysis. This subject is often described as the study of matter and energy but we will show you that it is so much more than that by looking at concepts such as quantum physics, astrophysics, electromagnetic induction, medical imaging, circular motion and forces in action. The theory is underpinned by hands-on practical work. In the first year of the course, you build on knowledge gained from GCSE physics starting with topics such as motion and forces. These topics, whilst being more tangible and appearing more basic, will be greatly expanded upon and contain added mathematical context. This will then be followed by energy and materials, which is essential for the understanding of later topics due to the synoptic nature of the course. For example, the Electrons, Waves and Photons module looks firstly at how current moves in circuits and what drives and resists it, then investigates wave behaviour and especially interference. The final section considers the mysterious effects of quantum physics.