Physics

A Level qualification

Entry Criteria: Grade 6-6 in GCSE Combined Science or 6 in GCSE Physics & grade 6 in GCSE Maths

Course Leader: T Deepu

INTRO

Physics - and the world around us - is changing so fast that no one can tell what aspects of the subject will be most important in, say, ten years’ time. There are, however, some basic ideas that are essential to our understanding of the world, and indeed the universe, around us and these are included in the core A Level Physics course. Physics provides a means of fulfilling the human desire to find out how things work; a research base for Science and Technology which is second to none and a basis for much modern technology and engineering. The analytical skills involved provide excellent preparation for careers in IT, Communications Technology, Medicine, Law or Finance.

COURSE STRUCTURE

This is a linear course. This means assessment is by three examinations that take place at the end of the course. A Level practical skills are assessed via endorsement. For Measurement and their errors, you gain a working knowledge of the specified fundamental units of measurement. Likewise, practical work is underpinned by an awareness of the nature of measurement errors and of their numerical treatment. For Particles and radiation, you explore the fundamental properties of matter, electromagnetic radiation, and quantum phenomena. The Waves unit extends the GCSE study of wave phenomena through a development of knowledge of the characteristics, properties, and applications of travelling waves and stationary waves.

In Mechanics and materials, vectors and their treatment are introduced, followed by a further study of materials considered in terms of their bulk properties and tensile strength. The Electricity unit provides opportunities for the development of practical skills at an early stage in the course and lays the groundwork for later study of the many electrical applications that are important to society. For Further mechanics and Thermal physics the thermal properties of materials, the properties and nature of ideal gases, and the molecular kinetic theory are studied in depth. In Fields and consequence, the ideas of gravitation, electrostatics and magnetic field theory are developed.

The Nuclear physics section builds on the work of Particles and radiation to link the properties of the nucleus to the production of nuclear power through the characteristics of the nucleus, the properties of unstable nuclei, and the link between energy and mass. Finally, Astrophysics: Fundamental physical principles are applied to the study and interpretation of the Universe.