Physics

Course summary

Physics is fundamental in explaining how the world around us works, from the structure of the proton to the movement of the galaxies. It illuminates our understanding of why the sun turns red in the evening, how we can speak across continents and why some bridges fall down. What will I learn? A key emphasis at A Level is to base learning on personal investigations of the physical world using practical work as much as possible. Increasingly, Information Technology is playing a crucial role in revolutionising Physics research. Hence, ICT is used extensively in the course, from data-logging to simulations through to analytical packages. Finally, it is also of paramount importance that you get the chance to experience cutting edge research and to meet leading scientists. Therefore, the Department runs regular trips to institutions such as CERN in Geneva, the largest particle accelerator in the world, and JET in Oxfordshire, currently the largest nuclear fusion reactor in Europe and the Airbus factory in Bristol.