Physics

Through the study of motion and energy, sound and light, electricity and the atom, we develop a greater appreciation for the forces and processes which exist within our daily lives.

The study of Physics explores humankind’s drive to explain the phenomenon which shape our world and universe. Through the study of motion and energy, sound and light, electricity and the atom, we develop a greater appreciation for the forces and processes which exist within our daily lives. The skills learnt through the study of Physics directly link to problem solving techniques, research and communication skills and specialised experimental methods aimed at achieving specific goals. Physics students can discover the workings of the atom, the mysteries of the universe and all the other pieces in-between. At Dickson College students will study the following units from the Australian Curriculum. *

• Unit 1: Linear motion and waves 
  Students study and investigate the areas of mechanics and waves.  This examines the topics, and relationships between, motion, force, energy and momentum.  Students also study the wave model in relation to sound and light, leading to an explanation of phenomena such as reflection, refraction, wave interference, and polarisation together with skills and understanding about the purpose, structure and application of the scientific inquiry process.
• Unit 2: Thermal, nuclear and electrical physics
  In this unit, students will study and investigate the areas of thermal physics, nuclear decay and reactions and direct current electrical circuits.  This includes the topics of thermodynamics, energy transfer processes, radioactivity and the conversion between mass and energy in nuclear processes.  Students will also construct, measure and analyse electrical circuits using direct current to learn how to apply and explain household circuitry and electrical energy transmission distribution.
• Unit 3: Gravity and electromagnetism 
  In this unit, students will study and investigate the concept of field theory through study and analysis of gravitational, electrical and magnetic fields. Topics include universal gravitation, projectile motion, circular motion and orbital motion. Students will then study electrical and magnetic fields individually before investigating the electromagnetic phenomenon, where the relationship between electrical and magnetic fields has been used for a variety of real-world applications.
• Unit 4: Revolutions in modern physics
  In this unit, students will study key topics from Modern Physics. This begins with the topic of Newtonian and Einsteinian relativity, leading to the development of the Quantum Theory and the nature of light. Students then explore the realm of particle physics by studying the development of the atomic model, from the work of Bohr through to the establishment of the Standard Model. The unit concludes with the study of the Big Bang theory and the fundamental forces which govern our Universe.
  
  Students who wish to undertake a minor in Physics may complete two or three semester units. Students completing a major in in Physics need to complete all four units over the two years.