Physics - AS/A2

Physics is the study of all the matter and energy in the universe. On a tiny scale, physics seeks to identify the particles which exist inside the nucleus of an atom, while on a truly enormous scale it attempts to explain the behaviour of distant galaxies at the far edge of the universe.

In the first year of the course, topics include: –

• Mechanics
• Electricity
• Theory of light
• Particle physics
• Quantum physics

The second year deals with more specialist topics such as: –

• Gravitational, electric and magnetic fields
• Radioactivity
• Nuclear power
• Astrophysics

The course is designed for students with enquiring minds who enjoy both practical
and theory work. Physics is a challenging course and uses laws expressed in
mathematical terms. For these reasons, students need to have achieved at least
grade B in both science and mathematics at GCSE.