Introduction to Physics – Videos and Notes – Form 1

VIDEO LESSON: Introduction to Physics – What is Physics?

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Science in our lives

Scientists are people trained in science and who practice the knowledge of science. We require people in industries to work as engineers, technicians, researchers, in hospitals as doctors, nurses, and technologists. Science gives us powerful ideas, instruments, and methods which affect us in 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 fact or statement that has not been proven or experimented.
3. A law or principle is a scientific fact or statement that has been proven and experimented to be true for 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 is able to explain the bulk properties of matter as well as other phenomena observed.

Branches of physics

1. Mechanics – the study of the motion of bodies under the influence of force.
2. Electricity – this deals with the movement of charge from one point to another through a conductor.
3. Magnetism – the study of magnets and magnetic fields and their extensive applications.
4. Thermodynamics/heat – this is the study of the transformation of heat from one form to another.
5. Optics –the study of light as it travels from one media 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 basic components of matter and their mutual interactions it forms the base of natural science. Biology and chemistry borrow from physics in explaining processes occurring in living things and organisms. Physics also provides techniques that are applied to almost every area of pure and applied science i.e. meteorology, astronomy, etc.

Career opportunities in physics

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

  NOTE: – all science-based careers i.e. doctors, nurses, technologists, engineers, pharmacists, etc. need physics as a true foundation.

Basic laboratory safety rules

1. Proper dressing must be observed, no loose clothing, hair, 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 in doubt.
5. No eating or drinking 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 in the correct location of storage after use.
9. Hands must be washed before leaving the laboratory.
10. Any accidents must be reported to the teacher immediately.

NEXT:  FORM 1 PHYSICS TOPIC 2: MEASUREMENT I

VIDEO LESSONS

Introduction to Physics – What is Physics?

Branches of Physics

Relationship between Physics and Other Subjects

MEASUREMENT 1: International System of Units (S.I Units)