Overview

A2 Physics extends the AS topics and introduces highly conceptual and mathematical physics. Students explore modern physics and apply their knowledge to solve complex, multi-step problems.

Key Topics

• Thermal Physics (Laws of Thermodynamics, Specific Heat, Latent Heat)
• Gravitational Fields (Newton’s Law of Gravitation, Potential and Field Strength)
• Electric Fields (Coulomb’s Law, Potential, Capacitors)
• Magnetic Fields (Lorentz Force, Electromagnetic Induction)
• Alternating Current (AC Circuits, Transformers)
• Nuclear Physics (Decay, Fission, Fusion, Mass-Energy Equivalence)
• Particle Physics (Quarks, Leptons, Fundamental Interactions)
• Advanced Mechanics (Momentum, Impulse, Rotational Motion)
• Cosmology and Astrophysics (optional, in some syllabi)

Skills Developed

• High-level mathematical modeling
• Critical analysis of experimental design
• Constructing detailed theoretical explanations
• Applying physics to engineering and real-world technology

Objective

To prepare students for physics-intensive university courses and careers in engineering, research, astrophysics, and applied science.