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Physics-SPH4U

This course develops students’ understanding of the basic concepts of physics. Students will explore these concepts with respect to motion; mechanical, electrical, electromagnetic, energy transformation, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems; and the operation of commonly used tools and machines. They will develop their scientific investigation skills as they test laws of physics and solve both assigned problems and those emerging from their investigations. Students will also consider the impact of technological applications of physics on society and the environment.


Pre-requisite(s):  • Grade 11 Physics, University preparation  (SPH3U-C)

Course Syllabus

Unit 1:  Dynamics
Lesson 1: Relative motion
Lesson 2: Projectile motion
Lesson 3: Forces and motion
Lesson 4: Circular motion

Unit 2: Energy and momentum
Lesson 5: Work and energy
Lesson 6: Elastic potential energy
Lesson 7: Impulse and momentum in one dimension
Lesson 8: Impulse and momentum in two dimensions

Unit 3:  Gravitational, electric, and magnetic fields
Lesson 9: Universal gravitation and gravitational fields
Lesson 10: Coulomb's law and electric fields
Lesson 11: Electric potential energy and electric potential
Lesson 12: Magnetic fields

Unit 4:  The wave nature of light
Lesson 13: Properties of waves and wave interference
Lesson 14: Interference of light waves
Lesson 15: Other wave behaviours of light
Lesson 16: Polarization, electromagnetic radiation, and light

Unit 5:  Modern physics
Lesson 17: Introduction to relativity
Lesson 18: Implications of relativity
Lesson 19: Introduction to quantum mechanics
Lesson 20: Implications of quantum mechanics