Unit 4 Overview

This unit is quite a long module, as it covers a range of topics that are essential for a physicist 

Further Mechanics covers Momentum, a concept that is very useful in explaining what happens in collisions.  It links in with Newton's Laws of Motion.  Then it goes on to look at Circular Motion, when things go around in circular paths around a central point.  This is a starting point for the study of objects in orbits, or if you study Applied Physics, where you will find out more about spinning objects.  Finally it looks at Oscillations, and Simple Harmonic Motion, in which objects move up and down (or from side to side).

Gravity Fields and Electric Fields have many features in common.  Each is studied, and then compared.

Magnetic fields and Electromagnetism are important to our way of life.  I could not prepare these notes without electricity which is generated and transmitted because of electromagnetic phenomena.  Nor could you read them.

Finally there are capacitors, which are useful as short-term charge stores.  They also introduce you to exponential decay, which is very important for understanding radioactive decay.

There is a lot covered in this unit, and the exam at the end has a section with multiple choice questions, as well as 5 - 6 structured questions.  This is because the normal format of 6 - 7 structured questions would not be able to cover the material in a satisfactory way.

1. Further Mechanics
Momentum

Go

Circular Motion Go
Oscillations Go
Simple Harmonic Motion Go
Simple Harmonic Systems Go
2. Gravity  Fields
Newton's Law of Gravitation Go
Gravitational Field Strength Go
Gravitational Potential Go
Orbits of Planets and Satellites Go
3. Electric Fields
Coulomb's Law Go
Electric Field Strength Go
Electric Potential Go
Comparison between Electric Fields and Gravity Fields Go
4. Capacitors
Capacitance Go
Energy Stored in a Capacitor Go
Capacitor Discharge Go
5. Magnetic Fields
Magnetic Flux Density Go
Moving Charges in a Magnetic Field Go
Magnetic Flux and Flux Linkage Go
Electromagnetic Induction Go
 
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