Physics - AS/A2
Physics is the study of all the matter and energy in the universe. On a tiny scale, physics seeks to identify the particles which exist inside the nucleus of an atom, while on a truly enormous scale it attempts to explain the behaviour of distant galaxies at the far edge of the universe.
In the first year of the course, topics include: –
- Mechanics
- Electricity
- Material science
- Thermal physics
- Theory of light
- Particle physics
- Quantum physics
The second year deals with more specialist topics such as: –
- Waves and oscillations
- Gravitational, electric and magnetic fields
- Radioactivity
- Nuclear power
- Astrophysics
The course is designed for students with enquiring minds who enjoy both practical
and theory work. Physics is a challenging course and uses laws expressed in
mathematical terms. For these reasons, students need to have achieved at least
grade B in both science and mathematics at GCSE.