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