Syllabus

Text

Physics, J.D. Cutnell & K.W. Johnson: Wiley, 5th edition

Section A: Mechanics, properties of matter and heat

Vectors
Statics
One dimensional motion
Newton's laws
Work and energy
Momentum
Motion in a plane
Circular motion
Rigid bodies
Properties of matter, gases
Temperature, gas laws, thermal properties

Section B: Waves. Electricity, Magnetism, Circuits and EM waves

Simple Harmonic Motion (SHM)
Waves and Sound
Electric forces and fields
Electric potential and work
DC circuits, resistors and capacitors
Kirchhoff's laws
Magnetism and EM (electromagnetic) induction laws
AC circuits
EM waves, generation and propagation

Section C: Optics and Modern Physics

Optics
- Electromagnetic spectrum
- Reflection
- Refraction
- Thin Lenses
- Mirrors
- Optical instruments and the eye
- Diffraction and diffraction gratings
- Interference
- Polarisation and scattering
Modern Physics
- Atomic model of matter
- Blackbody radiation and the greenhouse effect
- Photoelectric effect and quantum theory
- Electrons as waves and applications
- Atomic nucleus
- Fission and fusion
- Radioactive decay
- Applications of nuclear physics

Special Lectures

Up to 6 special lectures on specific topics will be given at various times during the year.
One of the questions on the final exam will consist of writing an essay on one of these special lecture topics.

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