PHYSICS FORM ONE

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION TO PHYSICS

Science in Our Lives

Scientists are people trained in science who practice scientific knowledge. We require people in industries to work as engineers, technicians, researchers, and in hospitals as doctors, nurses, and technologists. Science provides us with powerful ideas, instruments, and methods that affect our daily lives.

Scientific Methods

1. A laboratory is a building specifically designed for scientific work and may contain many pieces of apparatus and materials for use.
2. A hypothesis is a scientific statement or fact that has not yet been proven or experimented on.
3. A law or principle is a scientific fact or statement that has been proven and tested to be true under all conditions.
4. A theorem is a fact or statement that is true and proven but applicable under specific conditions.

What Is Physics?

Physics is a Greek word meaning nature, hence it deals with natural phenomena. Physics is therefore a science whose objective is the study of components of matter and their mutual interactions. Physics is also defined as the study of matter and its relation to energy. A physicist can explain bulk properties of matter as well as other observed phenomena.

Branches of Physics

1. Mechanics – the study of motion of bodies under the influence of force.
2. Electricity – the study of the movement of charge from one point to another through a conductor.
3. Magnetism – the study of magnets, magnetic fields, and their extensive applications.
4. Thermodynamics / Heat – the study of the transformation of heat from one form to another.
5. Optics – the study of light as it travels from one medium to another.
6. Waves – the study of disturbances that travel through mediums or a vacuum.
7. Particle Physics
8. Nuclear Physics
9. Plasma Physics

Relation of Physics to Other Subjects

Since physics enables us to understand the basic components of matter and their mutual interactions, it forms the foundation of natural science. Biology and chemistry borrow from physics to explain processes occurring in living things and organisms. Physics also provides techniques applied in almost every area of pure and applied science, such as meteorology and astronomy.

Career Opportunities in Physics

• Engineering – civil
  • Electrical
  • Mechanical
  • Agricultural
  • Environmental
  • Chemical
  • Computer
• Meteorology
• Surveying
• Geology
• Astronomy

NOTE: All science-based careers, such as doctors, nurses, technologists, engineers, pharmacists, etc., require physics as a true foundation.

Basic Laboratory Safety Rules

1. Proper dressing must be observed; no loose clothing, hair must be tied back, and closed shoes must be worn.
2. Identify the location of electricity switches, fire-fighting equipment, first aid kit, gas, and water supply systems.
3. Keep all windows open whenever working in the laboratory.
4. Follow all instructions carefully and never attempt anything if in doubt.
5. No eating or drinking is allowed in the laboratory.
6. Ensure that all electrical switches, gas, and water taps are turned off when not in use.
7. Keep floors and working surfaces dry. Any spillage must be wiped off immediately.
8. All apparatus must be cleaned and returned to the correct storage location after use.
9. Hands must be washed before leaving the laboratory.
10. Any accidents must be reported to the teacher immediately.