More Information About This Class

Laws of the Universe

The theories and concepts presented in this syllabus belong to a branch of physics
commonly referred to as classical physics. Modern physics, developed to explain the quantum properties
at the atomic and sub-atomic level, is built on knowledge of these classical theories and concepts.

Students should think of physics in terms of scales. Whereas the classical theories such as Newton’s
laws of motion apply to common physical systems that are larger than the size of atoms, the
comprehensive quantum theory, is needed to describe systems at the atomic and sub-atomic scales.

The aims of a course based on this syllabus is to:

(a) provide students with an experience that develops their interest in Physics and builds the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary for further studies in related fields

(b) enable students to become scientifically literate citizens who are well-prepared for the challenges of the 21st century

(c) develop in students the understanding, skills, ethics and attitudes relevant to the Practices of Science, including the following:

- understanding the nature of scientific knowledge

- demonstrating science inquiry skills

- relating science and society

(d) develop in students an understanding that a small number of basic principles and core ideas can be applied to explain, analyse and solve problems in a variety of systems in the physical world.