Physics 11

Physics 11

Course Number – 4340

Prerequisite – Science 10 or Science 9/10 Honours

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Course Description

Physics 11 is an introductory course that focuses on the principles and theories of physics, encourages investigation of physical relationships, and illustrates the relationship between theory and application. Topics covered in this course include Kinematics, Dynamics, Vectors, Energy and Momentum, Nuclear Physics and Radiation, Modern Physics, and Optics. Physics involves a working understanding of mathematics. ~It is recommended that students take Math 10 Principles before taking Physics 11.

Physics is the search for order in the world around and the quest to understand the laws that govern our universe. The study of physics encompasses remarkably diverse topics including the study of motion, forces, energy, fluids, heat, sound, optics, electricity and magnetism, and the more abstract topics of relativity, atomic structure, and nuclear physics.

Students are evaluated on regular homework assignments, laboratory activities, and occasional projects, as well as regular quizzes and tests. Tests weigh more heavily in the overall mark.

Mathematical relations often describe the laws of physics. Consequently, students need to be proficient in basic algebra and trigonometry in order to solve typical physics problems. Students must also be proficient readers since the physics textbook is written at a much higher level than the general science textbooks used in the junior science courses.

Prescribed Learning Outcomes

(taken from http://www.bced.gov.bc.ca/irp/pdfs/sciences/2006physics1112.pdf)

Skills, Methods and Nature of Physics

A1 describe the nature of physics
A2 apply the skills and methods of physics

Wave Motion and Geometrical Optics

B1 analyse the behaviour of light and other waves under various conditions, with reference to the
properties of waves and using the universal wave equation
B2 use ray diagrams to analyse situations in which light reflects from plane and curved mirrors
B3 analyse situations in which light is refracted

Kinematics

C1apply knowledge of the relationships between time, displacement, distance, velocity, and speed to
situations involving objects in one dimension
C2 apply knowledge of the relationships between time, velocity, displacement, and acceleration to
situations involving objects in one dimension

Forces

D1 solve problems involving the force of gravity
D2 analyse situations involving the force due to friction
D3 apply Hooke’s law to the deformation of materials

Newton’s Laws

E1 solve problems that involve application of Newton’s laws of motion in one dimension

Momentum

F1 apply the concept of momentum in one dimension

Energy

G1 perform calculations involving work, force, and displacement
G2 solve problems involving different forms of energy
G3 analyse the relationship between work and energy, with reference to the law of conservation of energy
G4 solve problems involving power and efficiency

Special Relativity

H1explain the fundamental principles of special relativity
Nuclear Fission and Fusion
I1analyse nuclear processes