Physics

Course summary

Physics is the study of how our universe works from large-scale ideas about the cosmos to the fundamental particles of matter and everything in between. A big part of the course is sharing a sense of curiosity and wonder about how the universe works. However, Physics is not just about abstract theories - practical work plays a great part as well as studying about the applications of the subject e.g. in engineering, materials and communications. You will begin to appreciate the profound impact, intellectual and practical, of physics and engineering on all our lives. Studying Physics in the Sixth Form combines mathematical and logical thinking with hands-on practical experimentation alongside digital technology and computational modelling. You will develop skills in numeracy, communication, problem-solving in unfamiliar contexts, all of which support a wide range of university courses and careers. Lower Sixth: • Familiar topics such as forces and motion and electricity are applied in more complex scenarios. • The physics of materials, for everything from construction to technology. • Theoretical physics considers the fundamental nature of matter, introducing ideas of wave and quantum physics, and the dual wave-particle nature of everything in our universe. • Images, data and digital signals, exploring the principles behind modern technology. • Computational models and algorithmic thinking are used to solve complex problems. Upper Sixth: • More complex topics, such as oscillations, capacitor circuits and nuclear decay. • The mathematical concept of a “field” is introduced to describe gravity, electrostatics and electromagnetism. • Statistical thinking, to analyse nuclear decay and thermodynamics. • The physics of the cosmos and also Einstein’s theory of relativity.