IB Physics

Course summary

Physics is the most fundamental of the experimental sciences, as it seeks to explain the universe itself, from the very smallest particles to the vast distances between galaxies. Despite the exciting and extraordinary development of ideas throughout the history of physics, observations remain essential to the very core of the subject. Models are developed to try to understand observations, and these themselves can become theories that attempt to explain the observations. Course Content: Our IB Physics course takes you on a journey through the fundamental principles governing the universe. It’s divided into key areas, with some topics explored in greater depth for Higher Level (HL) students. Here’s what you’ll cover: A. Space, Time and Motion Kinematics; Forces and Momentum; Work, Energy and Power; Rigid body mechanics (HL only); Galilean and special relativity (HL only) B. The Particulate Nature of Matter Thermal energy transfers; Greenhouse effect; Gas laws; Thermodynamics (all students plus additional HL content); Current and circuits C. Wave Behaviour (all students plus additional HL content) Simple harmonic motion; Wave model: Wave phenomena; Standing waves and resonance; Doppler effect; Changes in wave frequency D. Fields (all students plus additional HL content) Gravitational fields; Electric and magnetic fields; Motion in electromagnetic fields; Induction E. Nuclear and Quantum Physics (all students plus additional HL content) Structure of the atom; Quantum physics; Radioactive decay; Fission; Fusion and stars Besides helping us better understand the natural world, physics gives us the ability to alter our environments. This raises the issue of the impact of physics on society, the moral and ethical dilemmas, and the social, economic and environmental implications of the work of physicists. By studying physics, students should become aware of how scientists work and communicate with each other.