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St Philomena’s Catholic High School

for Girls

Sixth Formers’ Physics

Handbook

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A Post 16 Subject Guide 2019 – 2020

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Physics A Level (AQA) Course leader- Mr Goddard

Exam Board: AQA

1. What will I be doing in Year 12?

Unit 1: Measurements and their Errors

Content in this section is a continuing study for a student of physics. A working knowledge of the specified fundamental (base) units of measurement is vital. Likewise, practical work in the subject needs to be underpinned by an awareness of the nature of measurement errors and of their numerical treatment.

Unit 2: Particles and Radiation

This section introduces students both to the fundamental properties of matter, and to electromagnetic radiation and quantum phenomena. Teachers may wish to begin with this topic to provide a new interest and knowledge dimension beyond GCSE. Through a study of these topics, students become aware of the way ideas develop and evolve in physics. They will appreciate the importance of international collaboration in the development of new experiments and theories in this area of fundamental research.

Unit 3: Waves

GCSE studies of wave phenomena are extended through a development of knowledge of the characteristics, properties, and applications of travelling waves and stationary waves. Topics treated include refraction, diffraction, superposition and interference.

Unit 4: Mechanics and Materials

Vectors and their treatment are introduced followed by development of the student’s knowledge and understanding of

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forces, energy and momentum. The section continues with a study of materials considered in terms of their bulk properties and tensile strength. As with earlier topics, this section and also the following section Electricity would provide a good starting point for students who prefer to begin by consolidating work.

Unit 5: Electricity

This section builds on and develops earlier study of these phenomena from GCSE. It 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.

2. What will I be doing in Year 13?

The specification has 3 units and 1 optional unit from a choice of We do option 12. 6 Further mechanics and thermal physics 7 Fields and their consequences

8 Nuclear physics

Optional units

9 Astrophysics 10 Medical physics 11 Engineering physics 12 Turning points in physics 13 Electronics

Unit 6: Further mechanics and thermal physics

The earlier study of mechanics is further advanced through a consideration of circular motion and simple harmonic motion (the harmonic oscillator). A further section allows the thermal properties of materials, the properties and nature of ideal gases, and the molecular kinetic theory to be studied in depth.

Unit 7: Fields and their consequences

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The concept of field is one of the great unifying ideas in physics. The ideas of gravitation, electrostatics and magnetic field theory are developed within the topic to emphasise this unification. Many ideas from mechanics and electricity from earlier in the course support this and are further developed. Practical applications considered include: planetary and satellite orbits, capacitance and capacitors, their charge and discharge through resistors, and electromagnetic induction. These topics have considerable impact on modern society.

Unit 8: Nuclear physics

This 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. Students should become aware of the physics that underpins nuclear energy production and also of the impact that it can have on society.

Optional Units D Turning Points in Physics 3. Welcome to A level Physics

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We are delighted you have chosen to study Physics at A level. We hope that you will benefit from this course and gain a greater understanding of why and how Physics is so important in the modern world. (a) What is Physics? Physics is the study of matter and energy and how they interact with each other. Physics goes from a grand scale, aka the Universe, to the very smallest parts of the building blocks of everything: atoms, and then even smaller than that….to look at the particles that build up the nucleus. (b) Why study Physics? Physics is interwoven into virtually every aspect of our lives. Every electrical device you use, including mobile phones, depends upon basic physics concepts and principles. Every mechanical device, including cars, also relies on applications of physics. Your body has also developed sense organs that take into account and adapt to the behaviour of sound, light, heat, electrical and mechanical systems. You are a biological machine adapted to be successful in a world where physical principles permeate everywhere. Physics can give you a greater understanding of strange behaviours! These happen both on a very small scale and also on very large scales: particles that sometimes behave as if they were waves, particles that seem to tunnel through matter, some that cannot be seen, black holes, wormholes, quarks and strangeness numbers! At the other extreme, you will look at the largest possible scale: the Universe and find out there are some very strange behaviour indeed, which cannot be explained by laws that our famous Physicist Isaac Newton discovered. Yet, these laws were good enough to be used in sending the first men to the Moon! Physics is not set in stone…fixed and for all time. It, like other sciences, is constantly evolving and new theories, discoveries,

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and ways of thinking gradually take the place of previous knowledge and understanding. You can be part of this new age of discovery. Isaac Newton was able to encapsulate the fun and excitement of studying Physics, and the excitement of new discoveries… “I do not know what I may appear to the world, but to myself I seem to have been only like a boy playing on the sea-shore, and diverting myself in now and then finding a smoother pebble or a prettier shell than ordinary, whilst the great ocean of truth lay all undiscovered before me” You will discover things that you never knew before, and learn about relatively new discoveries that have changed our ways of thinking. (c) Physics and the 21st Century? Underpinning your studies in physics is a set of concepts known as “How Science Works”. The more you study physics, the greater understanding and appreciation of how science is interwoven into virtually every aspect of our lives, at a local, national , and international level.

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Everything using energy is based on knowledge, understanding and application of physics. Science, technology and society and all linked, and our use of science depends on decisions. For example, we often need to make decisions about the benefits of a certain technology against the risks. Some solutions to problems

depend on a range of factors. Choices have to be made by comparing the advantages and disadvantages of different ways of generating electricity. A solution on generating electricity on a remote island in Scotland might be quite different than generation electricity on an island in Greece. Local resources need to be taken into account, to provide the best solution, together with cultural, economic and social issues. Another example is the use of

mobile phones and whether they provide a health issue to users. Some studies have shown there is a danger, and other evidence suggests that there is no causal link between their use and brain tumours. Many devices used today carry a degree of risk associated with them. The ALARA (as low as risk as reasonably achievable) is often applied when using devices such as mobile phones.

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4. Studying A-level Physics at St Philomena’s School (a) Aim of the Course You might think that the aim of the course is to learn about physics. To a large extent this is true. However, the course provides you with opportunities to develop skills that will enable you to succeed in any future studies, in careers, and being part of a global community: 1. Understanding the nature and limitations of scientific knowledge This will include hypothesis and prediction, links between data and explanation, modelling, and the role of the scientific community in validating new knowledge; 2. Developing scientific enquiry skills Experimental skills, data handling and assessing the quality of data; 3. Developing Skills in Communication This involved the use of scientific language, mathematical skills and presentation of data 4. Applications and implications of science. You will consider technological decision making in the context of benefit versus risk and ethics. These areas are commonly referred to as How Science Works (Appendix 1).However, many of the skills are not just relevant to science; they can be applied to other subjects, and to most aspects of your life. Above all, want you to enjoy studying physics, and gain success to enable you to succeed in any further studies or career path you might choose.

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(b) Course Entry Requirements Grade B for Physics and A for Additional Science at GCSE science. Grade A for GCSE Mathematics. Exceptions to these requirements may be only considered in extenuating circumstances at the discretion of the department. (c) Companion Subjects There are no fixed requirements for studying other subjects alongside Physics. Maths AS would be useful, but not essential. Most students study at least another science, if they are intending to pursue a career or further educational course at University or College. Other students who are thinking of becoming an engineer or architect have combined physics with design technology and/or art. However, if you are interested in Physics and enjoy studying science, then welcome aboard! (d) Careers/Higher Educational Opportunities

Studying physics open up a range of opportunities in further education and in career paths. It is regarded as a stepping stone to further educational courses in science and engineering. Its mathematical content usually makes it highly regarded by most university admissions officers. The range of opportunities is not limited to science. Many business and law courses, for example, will accept physics and an entry qualification.

Apart from careers in pure and applied science, including engineering, there are other interesting careers on offer in the modern world that you might not have even considered! Here are some listed at www.physics.org www.brightrecruits.com http://www.iop.org/careers/future-with-physics/index.html For

Career Paths you can peruse the many opportunities in the following fields at http://brightrecruits.com/ : Astronomy and Space Manufacturing and industry

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Electronics and Semiconductors Nanotechnology Energy and Renewables Nuclear and Fusion Technology Computer Modelling Optics and Photonics Defence and Aerospace Software Development Environmental and Earth science

For any latest updates in careers in Physics, the first website to look at is http://www.iop.org/careers/future-with-physics/index.html

(e) Expectations and Challenges Priorities for Action…and Success Studying at A-level requires both commitment and time. You will be expected to put in at least as much time again outside lessons. You will attend six timetabled 45-minute lessons each week, although it is common practice in Physics for there to be two double lessons and two single lessons.Typical lesson activities will include practical work (short skill-developing tasks or longer projects); problem solving tasks; class discussion & note taking of important concepts; use of IT; awful puns (both members of staff equally culpable); presentation of research work, etc. Homework will be set each lesson, and will generally require a minimum of 60 minutes work for each piece set. Typical homework tasks will involve practice questions covering or extending concepts/skills covered in class; research of background material; writing up practical work; preparing presentations; extended essays, etc. Your priorities will be: 1. Completing assignments 2. Meeting deadlines 3. Reviewing your work/notes You will be expected to meet deadlines for all homework assignments. If you experience any difficulties in completion of your work. It is essential that you contact the teacher before the deadline. From the very first day, in the first lesson, you will need to make sure you understand the work you have done. If you have any questions, then annotate your notes, and make sure you ask your teacher for assistance and further guidance.

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Passive reading though notes is not a constructive way of revising and consolidating knowledge and understanding. These simple learning strategies will take you far in Physics: 1. Highlight the main key points These will be given in the learning objectives for the lesson. 2. Practice calculations! Remember, physics A-level requires you to be highly proficient at applying Maths to problem solving. Your teacher will provide you with homework and ample opportunities to develop your mathematical skills. You will need a scientific calculator for your work. 3. Ask for assistance Your teacher will be able to assist you with any areas of work that you need assistance with, including maths. When you have completed your work for the lesson it is essential that you go over this work on the same day to consolidate your knowledge and understanding, and to expand certain points if necessary. Contact your teacher(s) if you need any further help and guidance. Whatever strategies don’t ever leave questions until the week before the exam! From experience, the most successful students are the ones who are constantly ‘nagging’ the Physics teachers for clarifications on work undertaken as independent study. Keeping Records of your Work We ask you to be organised, and keep everything in a place where you can easily find your work and notes easily. Since we live in the 21st century, not everything is now done on paper. There will be times when you are required to do work on paper (still very common!), and times when an electronic activity is the only option/requirement.

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Even Albert Einstein sometimes had bad days…the trick is not to let them get you down. (By the way – did you know that Einstein failed maths at secondary school?

5. Resources for Learning (a) AQA A Level Physics Year Student Book (Required for the course)

Author(s): J Breithaupt Publisher: Oxford University Press (including Nelson Thornes) ISBN 13: 9780198351870

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(b) Calculations for A-level Physics (Optional)

You absolutely have to get to grips with Maths in this course! This book will help you to reach the highest grades. This is a support book, which we will use to ensure that you have plenty of practice at developing and applying mathematical skills to solving problems in physics.

(c). Understanding Physics This is a very accessible Physics textbook. It breaks down content into manageable chunks to help students with the transition from GCSE to A Level study.

We have a few of these in the school library for you to borrow.

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(c) Support Materials/Revision Guides You will be provided with a range of support materials for your course, and revision materials to help you to be fully prepared for the examinations. (d) E-learning Support/Activities E-learning is not intended to replace teaching! It is designed to complement, enrich and enhance your learning. You will need to have access to the internet. We will be using google classroom and doddle.

Animations Simulations Exam Practice

Web Quests Case Studies Presentations

Analysis Tools Teacher Notes Interactive Learning

Videos Revision Guides Discussion Tools

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6. Glossary of terms used in examination questions You need to pay very careful attention to the wording questions. Principal examiners choose their words very carefully, so you must be aware of what they are looking for in an answer. In physics it is essential that you know definitions exactly. Waffle counts for nothing. You are strongly advised to keep a definitions booklet, as you go through the course, with all the definitions, laws, principles, and the correct units for physical quantities. “State” In Physics this usually applies to Units or a Law or Principle. Make sure you know the correct definition….A-level standard, not media news standards. For example, Newton’s Third Law of Motion is NOT ‘Action and reaction are equal and opposite’, but “If an object A is applied to an object B then object B applies an equal and opposite force to object A “ “List” This needs a number of features or points only. No explanation is required “Define / What is meant by…?” “Define” means you must explain clearly what is meant by a particular word or term. If you have been taught a specific definition then you should use this phrase. “What is meant by …?” does not require such a formal definition (but it is not incorrect to give one). “Outline” This means that you should give a brief summary of the main points. Look at how many marks are available and how much space is given for clues to the detail you need to give! Do not repeat the same point five times expecting to get five marks! “Describe” This usually involves a few sentences, normally recalling a procedure or method. If it asks you to describe a graph, you should describe the shape of the graph, picking out key points

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(e.g. “it begins to level out at …” or “it gets steeper at …”). Note that an explanation is not required, unless it states ‘describe and explain’ If you are asked to describe an experiment, then you should state clearly how you would carry it out. “Describe how you …” This does mean you, the AS Physics student. The examiner will be looking for evidence of scientific procedures, knowledge and understanding that you have acquired during the course. It expects you to say what you could do in a school laboratory situation or how you would apply your knowledge to a familiar or unfamiliar situation. “Evaluate” Not to be confused with ‘list’. You need to give explanations. Evaluation of the evidence for and against a particular point of view means that you must give an explanation of the points that you make. Often used with data analysis questions, where you would need to consider the evidence then make careful judgements based on the evidence provided. “Explain” This is a why question You need to give a reason or an interpretation – not a description! It involves you using your science knowledge to explain a process or application of a concept to a familiar or unfamiliar situation. Explaining a graph is not describing the shape of the graph, it is telling the examiner why, in terms of physics, the graph is the shape that it is. “Suggest” You will not have been taught a specific answer to a question that starts “suggest”. What you are expected to do here is to draw upon the information given in the question and upon your general knowledge and understanding of physics concepts to come up with an answer. There may be more than one correct response to a “suggest” question. “Give the evidence for…” / “Use examples from…” Follow any instructions very carefully. Usually you will be expected to refer closely to information given in the question. You will not get full marks unless you do so. “Plot / sketch” These terms are used when you are drawing graphs. Plot means that you must be accurate, using graph paper where

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appropriate. Sketch means you need to show the general shape of the expected curve. Always label the axes correctly. In some cases, you would be expected to give appropriate scales. “Calculate” This means get out your calculator, enter the appropriate numbers and come up with an answer. In Physics you must ensure that the data is in appropriate SI units before substitution. In all cases, show your working. This gives the examiner an opportunity to give you intermediate marks, if you do not have the correct answer and units. 7: Mathematical Requirements: In order to develop your skills, knowledge and understanding in science, you will need to have been taught and to have acquired competence in the appropriate areas of mathematics relevant to the subject as set out below:

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8. Data and Formulae Unlike at GCSE, you will be given a data sheet and a formula sheet. You will not be required to remember any formula!! 9. Glossary of terms related to measurements The AQA team of physics GCE examiners has produced the following list of definitions for use with AQA GCE Physics specifications and examinations. Accepted value The accepted value of a measurement is the value of the most accurate measurement available. It is sometimes referred to as the true value.

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Accuracy Accuracy is a measure of confidence in an accurate measurement, often expressed as an upper and lower limit of the measurement based on the uncertainty in the measurement (e.g. g = 9.8 ± 0.3 m s-2). Accurate measurements A measurement which can be described as accurate is one that has been obtained using accurately calibrated instruments correctly and where no systematic errors arise. Dependent variable Dependent variables are those variable physical quantities whose values change as a result of a change of value of another variable quantity. The dependent variable is usually plotted on the vertical or y-axis of a graph. Error The difference between a measurement and its accepted value. Often a misnomer suggesting that a mistake was made in taking a reading. Independent variable Independent variables are those variable physical quantities whose values are controlled or selected by the experimenter. Changing the value of an independent variable usually results in a change of value of a dependent variable. The independent variable is usually plotted on the horizontal or x-axis of a graph. Linearity This is a design feature of many instruments and it means that the readings are directly proportional to the magnitude of the variable being measured. The scale of a moving coil meter is linear if it has evenly spaced graduations on its scale each representing equal increases in current. Mean value The mean value of a set of readings is calculated by adding the readings together and dividing by the number of readings.

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Transition Materials So you are considering A Level Physics? This pack contains a programme of activities and resources to prepare you to start an A level in Physics in September. It is aimed to be used after you complete your GCSE, throughout the remainder of the Summer term and over the Summer Holidays to ensure you are ready to start your course in September. Pre-Knowledge Topics Below are ten topics that are essential foundations for you study of A-Level Physics. Each topics has example questions and links where you can find our more information as you prepare for next year. Symbols and Prefixes

Prefix Symbol Power of ten

Nano n x 10-9

Micro μ x 10-6

Milli m x 10-3

Centi c x 10-2

Kilo k x 103

Mega M x 106

Giga G x 109

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At A level, unlike GCSE, you need to remember all symbols, units and prefixes. Below is a list of quantities you may have already come across and will be using during your A level course

Quantity Symbol Unit

Velocity v ms-1

Acceleration a ms-2

Time t S

Force F N

Resistance R Ω

Potential difference V V

Current I A

Energy E or W J

Pressure P Pa

Momentum p kgms-1

Power P W

Density ρ kgm-3

Charge Q C

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Converting Units Solve the following: How many metres in 2.4 km?

How many joules in 8.1 MJ?

Convert 326 GW into W.

Convert 54 600 mm into m.

How many grams in 240 kg?

Convert 0.18 nm into m

Convert 632 nm into m. Express in standard form.

Convert 1002 mV into V. Express in standard form.

How many eV in 0.511 MeV? Express in standard form.

How many m in 11 km? Express in standard form.

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Standard Form At A level quantity will be written in standard form, and it is expected that your answers will be too. This means answers should be written as ….x 10y. E.g. for an answer of 1200kg we would write 1.2 x 103kg. For more information visit: www.bbc.co.uk/education/guides/zc2hsbk/revision Write 2530 in standard form.

Write 280 in standard form.

Write 0.77 in standard form.

Write 0.0091 in standard form.

Write 1 872 000 in standard form.

Write 12.2 in standard form.

Write 2.4 x 10 2 as a normal number.

Write 3.505 x 10 1 as a normal number.

Write 8.31 x 10 6 as a normal number.

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Write 6.002 x 10 2 as a normal number.

Write 1.5 x 10-4 as a normal number.

Write 4.3 x 103 as a normal number.

Rearranging formulae This is something you will have done at GCSE and it is crucial you master it for success at A level. For a recap of GCSE watch the following links: www.khanacademy.org/math/algebra/one-variable-linear-equations/old-school-equations/v/solving-for-a-variable www.youtube.com/watch?v=_WWgc3ABSj4 Rearrange the following: E=m x g x h to find h

Q= I x t to find I

E = ½ m v2 to find m

E = ½ m v2 to find v

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v = u + at to find u

v = u + at to find a

v2 = u2 +2as to find s

v2 = u2 +2as to find u

Significant figures At A level you will be expected to use an appropriate number of significant figures in your answers. The number of significant figures you should use is the same as the number of significant figures in the data you are given. You can never be more precise than the data you are given so if that is given to 3 significant your answer should be too. E.g. Distance = 8.24m, time = 1.23s therefore speed = 6.75m/s The website below summarises the rules and how to round correctly. http://www.purplemath.com/modules/rounding2.htm Give the following to 3 significant figures: 3.4527

40.691

0.838991

1.0247

59.972

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Calculate the following to a suitable number of significant figures: 63.2/78.1

39+78+120

(3.4+3.7+3.2)/3

0.0256 x 0.129

592.3/0.1772

Atomic Structure You will study nuclear decay in more detail at A level covering the topics of radioactivity and particle physics. In order to explain what happens you need to have a good understanding of the model of the atom. You need to know what the atom is made up of, relative charges and masses and how sub atomic particles are arranged. The following video explains how the current model was discovered www.youtube.com/watch?v=wzALbzTdnc8 Describe the model used for the structure of an atom including details of the individual particles that make up an atom and the relative charges and masses of these particles. You may wish to include a diagram and explain how this model was discovered by Rutherford Recording Data Whilst carrying out a practical activity you need to write all your raw results into a table. Don’t wait until the end, discard anomalies and then write it up in neat. Tables should have column heading and units in this format quantity/unit e.g. length /mm All results in a column should have the same precision and if you have repeated the experiment you should calculate a mean to the same precision as the data. Below are link to practical handbooks so you can familiarise yourself with expectations. http://filestore.aqa.org.uk/resources/physics/AQA-7407-7408-PHBK.PDF Below is a table of results from an experiment where a ball was rolled down a ramp of different lengths. A ruler and stop clock were used. 1) Identify the errors the student has made.

Time

Length/cm Trial 1 Trial 2 Trial 3 Mean

10 1.45 1.48 1.46 1.463

22 2.78 2.72 2.74 2.747

30 4.05 4.01 4.03 4.03

41 5.46 5.47 5.46 5.463

51 7.02 6.96 6.98 6.98

65 8.24 9.68 8.24 8.72

70 9.01 9.02 9.0 9.01

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Graphs After a practical activity the next step is to draw a graph that will be useful to you. Drawing a graph is a skill you should be familiar with already but you need to be extremely vigilant at A level. Before you draw your graph to need to identify a suitable scale to draw taking the following into consideration: the maximum and minimum values of each variable

whether 0.0 should be included as a data point; graphs don’t need to show the origin, a false origin can be used if your

data doesn’t start near zero.

the plots should cover at least half of the grid supplied for the graph.

the axes should use a sensible scale e.g. multiples of 1,2, 5 etc)

Identify how the following graphs could be improved Graph 1 Graph 2

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Forces and Motion At GCSE you studied forces and motion and at A level you will explore this topic in more detail so it is essential you have a good understanding of the content covered at GCSE. You will be expected to describe, explain and carry calculations concerning the motion of objects. The websites below cover Newton’s laws of motion and have links to these in action. http://www.physicsclassroom.com/Physics-Tutorial/Newton-s-Laws http://www.sciencechannel.com/games-and-interactives/newtons-laws-of-motion-interactive/ Sketch a velocity-time graph showing the journey of a skydiver after leaving the plane to reaching the ground. Mark on terminal velocity. Electricity At A level you will learn more about how current and voltage behave in different circuits containing different components. You should be familiar with current and voltage rules in a series and parallel circuit as well as calculating the resistance of a device. http://www.allaboutcircuits.com/textbook/direct-current/chpt-1/electric-circuits/ http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/circuits 1a) Add the missing ammeter readings on the circuits below. b) Explain why the second circuit has more current flowing than the first. 2) Add the missing potential differences to the following circuits Waves You have studied different types of waves and used the wave equation to calculate speed, frequency and wavelength. You will also have studied reflection and refraction. Use the following links to review this topic. http://www.bbc.co.uk/education/clips/zb7gkqt https://www.khanacademy.org/science/physics/mechanical-waves-and-sound/mechanical-waves/v/introduction-to-waves https://www.khanacademy.org/science/physics/mechanical-waves-and-sound/mechanical-waves/v/introduction-to-waves 1) Draw a diagram showing the refraction of a wave through a rectangular glass block. Explain why the ray of light takes this path. 2) Describe the difference between a longitudinal and transverse waves and give an example of each 3) Draw a wave and label the wavelength and amplitude

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Pre-Knowledge Topics Answers: Symbols and prefixes 2400

8 100 000

326 000 000 000

54.6

240 000

1.8 x 10-8

6.32 x 10-7

1.002

5.11 x 10-5

1.1 x 104

Standard Form: 2.53

2.8

7.7

9.1

1.872

1.22

2400

35.05

8 310 000

600.2

0.00015

4300

Rearranging formulae h= E/ (m x g)

I = Q/t

m = (2 x E)/v2 or E/(0.5 x v2)

v= √((2 x E )/m)

u = v – at

a = (v-u)/t

s = (v2 – u2) / 2a

u = √(v2-2as)

Significant figures 3.35

40.7

0.839

1.02

60.0

0.809

237

3.4

0.00330

3343

Atomic Structure contains protons, neutrons and electrons Relative charge: protons are positive (+1) electrons are negative (-1) neutrons are uncharged (0) Relative mass: proton 1 neutron 1

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electron (about) 1/2000 protons and neutrons make up the nucleus the nucleus is positively charged electrons orbit the nucleus at a relatively large distance from the nucleus most of the atom is empty space nucleus occupies a very small fraction of the volume of the atom most of the mass of the atom is contained in the nucleus total number of protons in the nucleus equals the total number of electrons orbiting it in an atom Recording data Time should have a unit next to it Length can be measured to the nearest mm so should be 10.0, 22.0 etc Length 65 trial 2 is an anomaly and should have been excluded from the mean All mean values should be to 2 decimal places Mean of length 61 should be 6.99 (rounding error) Graphs Graph 1: Axis need labels Point should be x not dots Line of best fit is needed y axis is a difficult scale x axis could have begun at zero so the y-intercept could be found Graph 2: y-axis needs a unit curve of best fit needed not a straight line Point should be x not dots Forces and motion Graph to show acceleration up to a constant speed (labelled terminal velocity). Rate of acceleration should be decreasing. Then a large decrease in velocity over a short period of time (parachute opens), then a decreasing rate of deceleration to a constant speed (labelled terminal velocity) Electricity 1a) Series: 3A, Parallel top to bottom: 4A,2A,2A b) Less resistance in the parallel circuit. Link to R=V/I. Less resistance means higher current. 2) Series: 3V, 3V, Parallel: 6V 6V Waves

1) When light enters a more optically dense material it slows down and therefore bends towards the normal. The opposite happened when it leaves an optically dense material. 2) A longitudinal wave oscillates parallel to the direction of energy transfer (e.g. sound). A transverse waves oscillated perpendicular to the direction of energy transfer (e.g. light) 3) .

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Ideas for Day Trips Here are some suggestions for some physics-themed days out for you to enjoy over the summer break. Try and have some fun as you prepare for two tough but rewarding years ahead! Northern England and Scotland Jodrell Bank Observatory – Cheshire – one of the largest moveable radio telescopes in the world and the location of the filming of the BBC’s Stargazing Live. The site has both indoor and outdoor activities.

MOSI – Manchester – Massive free museum showing how science helped Britain lead the way through the industrial revolution. Contains hands on exhibits and displays and often host regular travelling exhibitions.

Liverpool World Museum / Spaceport – Liverpool/Wirral – Start the day off at an excellent family science museum with a top floor dedicated to astronomy including a planetarium. Take the ferry cross the Mersey to another family friendly museum dedicated to spaceflight.

Kielder Observatory – Northumberland – Book ahead at this popular observatory in the midst of the darkest night skies the UK has to offer. Regular tours and opportunities to view the stars through professional telescopes take place on a nightly basis.

Glasgow Science Centre - The Centre is home to hundreds of interactive exhibits throughout the three engaging floors

The Midlands and Wales Electric Mountain – Snowdonia – Set against a mountainous backdrop is a working pumped storage power station. Take a tour deep into the heart of the mountain and see the turbines spring into action to meet our ever increasing demand for electricity. Take a stroll up on of the UKs highest peaks in the afternoon.

National Space Centre – Leicester - With six interactive galleries, the UK’s largest planetarium, unique 3D Simulator experience, the award-winning National Space Centre in Leicester is an out of this world visitor attraction

Alton Towers – Staffordshire – Treat yourself to a go on a few rollercoasters whilst discussing Newton’s Laws. You may want to download and take these handy rollercoaster physics notes with you http://www.explainthatstuff.com/rollercoasters.html

Southern England Royal Observatory – London - Visit the Royal Observatory Greenwich to stand on the historic Prime Meridian of the World, see the home of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), and explore your place in the universe at London’s only planetarium.

Herschel Museum of Astronomy – Bath – As you walk around the picturesque Roman city – take an hour or two out at the home of one of the great scientists – discoverer of Infra-red radiation and Uranus.

@Bristol – Bristol - home to the UK’s only 3D Planetarium and one of the biggest science centres.

The Royal Institution – London – The birthplace of many important ideas of modern physics, including Michael Faraday’s lectures on electricity. Now home to the RI Christmas lectures and many exhibits of science history.

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Physics Reading List

Alice in Quantumland: An Allegory of Quantum Physics- Robert Gilmore

Recommended Years: 12-13

This is a must read for any Physicist.In this cleverly conceived book, physicist Robert

Gilmore makes accessible some complex concepts in quantum mechanics by sending

Alice to Quantumland-a whole new Wonderland, smaller than an atom, where each

attraction demonstrates a different aspect of quantum theory. Alice unusual encounters,

enhanced by illustrations by Gilmore himself, make the Uncertainty Principle, wave

functions, the Pauli Principle, and other elusive concepts easier to grasp.

A Brief History of Time – Stephen Hawking

Recommended Years: 12-13

Everyone knows who Stephen Hawking is. He’s probably the most

famous living scientist in the world. What far fewer people know,

however, is what science he’s actually responsible for. Some

people might know he’s a physicist, fewer still might know he works

in cosmology, but ask any layman what his key research

has been and you’re unlikely to get a concrete answer. A Brief

History of Time guides you through much of Hawking’s life work,

straight from the horse’s mouth. It focuses on his work with Roger

Penrose and singularity theory, which he used to prove a

theoretical basis for black holes. It also describes how his theories

developed over time – the chapter on his discovery of Hawking

radiation is particularly interesting. In order to explain his work,

Hawking first gives the reader an overview of the big ideas in

Physics. He explains the key ideas behind general relativity and

quantum theory, and their fundamental disagreement – before

bringing them crashing together to explain black hole formation. Be warned; the book looks deceptively short. It’s not the most

readable popular science book out there. When I read it, I went

through each chapter twice, first to get the general gist, then to

actually understand what he was saying. It might be useful to read

this sat at a desk with a pen and paper – Hawking explains much

of the book through diagrams and thought experiments, so

doing a few sketches can really bring it to life.

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The Elegant Universe – Brian Greene

Recommended Years: 12-13

String theory is the cutting edge of modern theoretical

Physics.

Disagreements between general relativity – where

space is smooth – and quantum mechanics – where,

as you look closer, the fabric of space itself becomes

chaotic. Greene aims to explain the development of

string theory to the reader, by first examining the

development of each of the discordant theories, and

explaining the problems that arise when you try to

combine them. His description of relativity is

particularly special. It’s a bit more technical than other

books, but he conveys really well the elegant

symmetries behind it without resorting to maths. He

then takes you through string theory – explaining the

theories inception, the concept of higher dimensions,

the implications of string theory and crucially, how we

are going about searching for evidence. This last point

is particularly interesting; our current picture of the

universe only breaks down in extreme conditions - we

would need a particle accelerator the size of the solar

system to see the direct effects of strings. As such,

the search for experimental data is more indirect – we

have to re-examine our interpretation of existing

phenomena to find small deviations that can be

accounted for by string theory.

Flatland – Edwin A. Abbot

Recommended Years: 12-13 A clever and humorous mathematical essay, Flatland tells the story of a square

living in a two dimensional land. The challenges of living in two dimensions

mean the society has developed strange customs that our protagonist

describes. In a dream, he is transported to Lineland, where inhabitants exist in

only one dimension. He cannot fathom how the citizens of Lineland cannot

comprehend the second dimension. Once he returns to Flatland, however, he is

baffled to be visited by a mysterious visitor who calls himself a Sphere… This short essay is very easy to read, and is a good accompaniment to The

Elegant Universe. Greene’s chapter on the extra dimensions required by string

theory can often be confusing, but Flatland gives a glimpse into the challenges

of perceiving extra dimensions.

Six Easy Pieces – Richard P. Fenymann

Recommended Years:13

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Richard Fenymann is perhaps the least well known of the giants of Physics. His work on QED and QCD puts his genius on the same level as Newton

and Einstein. However, one of Fenymann’s most

defining characteristics was his love of teaching. He

always said that if he couldn’t explain a Physics idea

to a class of 1st

year undergraduates, then he didn’t

really understand it. It was this attitude that led him

to teach the CalTech 1st

year physics course in the

early 1960s, now immortalised in the Fenymann

Lectures on Physics. Six Easy Pieces contains the

six least technical of these lectures, delving into

varied aspects of physics including gravity,

conservation of energy and basic quantum theory. The word ‘easy’ is perhaps a bit misleading. While the

maths in the lectures is easy, some of the concepts

can take a few minutes to get your head around.

However, if you’re willing to work through each of the

lectures, you’ll find it very rewarding. Ask a physics

student who their favourite physicist of all time is, and

you’re probably likely to hear Fenymann’s name pop

up often.

How to Teach Relativity to Your Dog – Chad Orzel

Recommended Years: 13 Several of these books give a brief overview of Relativity, as the theory

forms one of the cornerstones of modern Physics. However, Orzel’s book

aims to explain the theory and its implications in detail. There’s a good

mix of technical and more descriptive elements, as the book is presented

as a series of conversations between Chad and his extremely eager, but

mathematically inept, dog. Each chapter begins with one of these conversations, which take you

through the key ideas behind relativity, before a more technical and

mathematical explanation. This combination means the book is accessible

to all readers, but provides the technical aspect for those with a particular

interest.

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Physics Articles

Below are some interesting articles about cutting edge physics research, organised into different areas of physics. Gravitational Waves and General Relativity

Einstein's gravity theory passes toughest test yet: Bizarre binary star system pushes study of relativity to new limits:

http://phys.org/news/2013-04-einstein-gravity-theory-toughest-bizarre.html

First Direct Evidence of Cosmic Inflation: https://www.cfa.harvard.edu/news/2014-05

This was one of the first articles announcing the discovery of gravitational waves from cosmic inflation in the early

universe. However, their experiment was later shown to be flawed – you can read about this in the article below.

Gravitational Waves from Early Universe Remain Elusive:

http://www.jpl.nasa.gov/news/news.php?release=2015-46

Crashing Black Holes http://calteches.library.caltech.edu/4298/1/BlackHoles.pdf

CERN's new Einstein Observatory to explore black holes, Big Bang: http://phys.org/news/2011-05-cern- einstein-

observatory-explore-black.html

String Theory

New website dedicated to discussion of string theory: http://phys.org/news/2012-10-website-dedicated- discussion-

theory.html

Scientists find a practical test for string theory: http://phys.org/news/2014-01-scientists-theory.html

What is string theory? http://www.physics.org/article-questions.asp?id=47

String theory: it's not dead yet: http://www.newscientist.com/article/dn11882-string-theory-its-not-dead-

yet.html#.VQa6AqzLcjU

Finally, a MAGIC test for string theory?: http://www.newscientist.com/article/dn12609-finally-a-magic-test-

for-string-theory.html

Quantum Computers

How Quantum Computers Work: http://computer.howstuffworks.com/quantum-computer.htm

The Father of Quantum Computing: http://archive.wired.com/science/discoveries/news/2007/02/72734

The Revolutionary Quantum Computer That May Not Be Quantum at All:

http://www.wired.com/2014/05/quantum-computing/

Materials Science

Scientists fabricate defect-free graphene, set record reversible capacity for Co3O4 anode in Li-ion batteries:

http://phys.org/news/2014-08-scientists-fabricate-defect-free-graphene-reversible.html

Theoretical physicists design 'holy grail' of materials science: http://phys.org/news/2015-03-theoretical- physicists-

holy-grail-materials.html

Novel crumpling method takes flat graphene from 2D to 3D: http://phys.org/news/2015-02-crumpling- method-

flat-graphene-2d.html

Stanene is ‘100% efficient’, could finally replace copper wires in silicon chips:

http://www.extremetech.com/extreme/171551-stanene-is-100-efficient-could-finally-replace-copper-wires- in-silicon-

chips

What is Aerogel? Theory, Properties and Applications: http://www.azom.com/article.aspx?ArticleID=6499

Particle Physics

Why particle physics matters: http://www.symmetrymagazine.org/article/october-2013/why-particle- physics-

matters

It's a boson! But we need to know if it's the Higgs: http://www.newscientist.com/article/dn22029-its-a- boson-but-

we-need-to-know-if-its-the-higgs.html?page=1#.VQfooqzLdVw

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Particle chameleon caught in the act of changing

http://press.web.cern.ch/press-releases/2010/05/particle- chameleon-caught-

act-changing

The search for dark matter at the LHC:

http://www.symmetrymagazine.org/article/the-search-for-dark-

matter-at-the-lhc

Could the Higgs Nobel Be the End of Particle Physics?:

http://www.scientificamerican.com/article/could-the- higgs-nobel-be-the-end-

of-particle-physics/

Astrophysics

How do we know dark matter exists?: http://phys.org/news/2015-03-dark.html

The corrugated galaxy: Milky Way may be much larger than previously estimated:

http://phys.org/news/2015-03-corrugated-galaxy-milky-larger-previously.html

Solving the riddle of neutron stars: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/03/150310074105.htm

Cosmology: First stars were born much later than thought:

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/02/150205131233.htm

Other Physics reading lists

http://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/wiki/recommended_physics_reading

http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=3&ved

=0CDUQFjAC&url=http%3A%2F%2Fw

www.lowestoftsfc.ac.uk%2Fimages%2Fuploads%2Fdocs%2FA_Level_Physi

cs_Reading_List.pdf&ei=Dey0VPvKKoGpUtr7g9AO&usg=AFQjCNFmdEU1T

ftbihaGQr99sW9DdtS1CA&bvm=bv.83339334,d.d24&cad=rja

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Online Clips / Series 1. Minute Physics – Variety of Physics questions explained simply (in felt

tip) in a couple of minutes. Addictive viewing that will have you watching clip after clip – a particular favourite of mine is “Why is the Sky Dark at Night?”

https://www.youtube.com/user/minutephysics 2. Wonders of the Universe / Wonders of the Solar System – Both

available of Netflix as of 17/4/16 – Brian Cox explains the Cosmos using some excellent analogies and wonderful imagery.

3. Shock and Awe, The Story of Electricity – A 3 part BBC documentary that is essential viewing if you want to see how our lives have been transformed by the ideas of a few great scientists a little over 100 years ago. The link below takes you to a stream of all three parts joined together but it is best watched in hourly instalments. Don’t forget to boo when you see Edison. (alternatively watch any Horizon documentary – loads of choice on Netflix and the I-Player)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gtp51eZkwoI 4. NASA TV – Online coverage of launches, missions, testing and the ISS.

Plenty of clips and links to explore to find out more about applications of Physics in Space technology.

http://www.nasa.gov/multimedia/nasatv/

5. The Fantastic Mr. Feynman – I recommended the book earlier, I also cannot recommend this 1 hour documentary highly enough. See the life’s work of the “great explainer”, a fantastic mind that created mischief in all areas of modernPhysic https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LyqleIxXTpw

Research activity

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To get the best grades in A Level Physics you will have to get good at completing independent research and making your own notes on difficult topics. Below are links to 5 websites that cover some interesting Physics topics.

Using the Cornell notes system: http://coe.jmu.edu/learningtoolbox/cornellnotes.html make 1 page of notes from each site covering a topic of your choice.

a) http://home.cern/about

CERN encompasses the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) and is the

largest collaborative science experiment ever undertaken. Find out

about it here and make a page of suitable notes on the accelerator.

b) http://joshworth.com/dev/pixelspace/pixelspace_solarsystem.html

The solar system is massive and its scale is hard to comprehend.

Have a look at this award winning website and make a page of

suitable notes.

c) https://phet.colorado.edu/en/simulations/category/html

PhET create online Physics simulations when you can complete some simple experiments online. Open up the resistance of a wire html5 simulation. Conduct a simple experiment and make a one page summary of the experiment and your findings. http://climate.nasa.gov/

NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory has lots of information on Climate

Change and Engineering Solutions to combat it. Have a look and

make notes on an article of your choice.

d) http://www.livescience.com/46558-laws-of-motion.html

Newton’s Laws of Motion are fundamental laws for the motion of all

the object we can see around us.