Physics

Interaction of Matter, Space & Time

This part covers the fundamental concepts of matter, its properties, motion, and forces, laying the groundwork for understanding the physical world.

Energy

Examples of various forms of energy (e.g., mechanical (potential and kinetic), heat, chemical, electrical, light, sound, nuclear). World energy resources: Brief discussion of renewable (e.g., solar, wind, tides, hydro, ocean waves) and non-renewable (e.g., petroleum, coal, nuclear, biomass) sources. Statement of the principle of conservation of energy and its use in explaining energy transformations.

Derived Quantities and Dimensional Analysis

Fundamental quantities and units (e.g., Length, mass, time, electric current, luminous intensity etc., m, kg,s, A, cd, etc. as their respective units). Derived quantities and units (e.g., volume, density, speed etc. m³, kgm⁻³, ms⁻¹ etc. as their respective units). Explanation of dimensions in terms of fundamental and derived quantities. Uses of dimensions: to verify dimensional correctness of a given equation, to derive the relationship between quantities, to obtain derived units.

Structure of the Atom

Models of the atom: Thomson, Rutherford, Bohr and electron-cloud (wave-mechanical) models should be discussed qualitatively, including their limitations. Quantization of angular momentum (Bohr). Energy quantization: Energy levels in the atom, colour and light frequency. Treatment should include: Frank-Hertz experiment, Line spectra from hot bodies, absorption spectra and spectra of discharge lamps. Photoelectric effect: Explanation, dual nature of light, work function and threshold frequency. Einstein's photoelectric equation and its explanation. Application in T.V., camera, etc. (simple problems may be set). Thermionic emission: Explanation and applications. X-rays: Production of X-rays and structure of X-ray tube. Types, characteristics, properties, uses and hazards of X-rays, including safety precautions.