Physics CSEC Syllabus
SECTION A – MECHANICS
Mechanics is the branch of physics which deals with the study of motion. This section introduces the
scientific method, physical measurements, significant figures and units, which transcends the entire
syllabus.
SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
Students should be able to:
Galileo
1.1 Discuss how the methodology employed by Galileo contributed to the development of
Physics
Simple Pendulum
1.2 Investigate the factors which might affect the period of a simple pendulum.
1.3 Use graphs of experimental data from simple pendulum.
1.4 Draw a line of ‘best fit’ for a set of plotted values.
1.5 Determine the gradient of the straight line graph.
Use gradient to determine g.
1.6 Express the result of a measurement or calculation to an appropriate number of significant
figures.
1.7 Discuss possible types and sources of error in any measurement.
1.8 Use a variety of instruments to measure different quantities.
1.9 Assess the suitability of instruments on the basis of sensitivity, accuracy and range.
1.10 Apply the formula for density:𝜌 = 𝑚 𝑉 .
Determine the density of regular and irregular solids and a liquid.
1. VECTORS
2.1 Distinguish between scalars and vectors and give examples of each; Everyday examples
for each type, for example, movement of a hurricane as vector. Mass of objects as scalar.
2.2 Use scale diagrams to find the resultant of two vectors.
2.3 Calculate the resultant of vectors which are parallel, anti-parallel and perpendicular.
2.4 Explain that a single vector is equivalent to two other vectors at right angles. Everyday
examples of motion and force, for example, velocity of a ball thrown through the air.
3. STATICS
Forces,
3.1 Explain the effects of forces; A force can cause a change in the size, shape or motion of a
body.
3.2 Identify types of forces
Situations in which electric, magnetic, nuclear or gravitational forces act.
3.3 Determine the weight of objects; Weight = mass gravitational field strength: 𝑊 = 𝑚𝑔 On
earth, g = 10 Nkg 1 Note that: Nkg1 ms2 .
3.4 Show how derived quantities and their related units are produced; Note how unit ρ may be
derived by multiplying and dividing fundamental quantities and their units; From the
definition of the quantity, for example: N kgms2 .
3.5 Recall the special names given to the units for some derived quantities
kgms2 = N.
3.6 Express derived units using the index notation.
3.7 Identify situations in which the application of a force will result in a turning effect;
Situations that are relevant to everyday life, for example, opening a door, sitting on a
‘seesaw’, using a spanner.
3.8 Define the moment of a force, T; Moment units of Nm. Note that Nm is not equivalent to
a Joule.
3.9 Apply the principle of moments Oblique forces are excluded.
Use of measuring instruments to indicate the magnitude of the forces in equilibrium.
3.10 Explain the action of common tools and devices as levers; Identification of load, effort
and fulcrum for each device and tool in use.
3.11 Determine the location of the centre of gravity of a body.
Centre of gravity of a variety of regular and irregular shaped solids, including lamina.
3.12 Relate the stability of an object to the position of its centre of gravity and its weight.
The orientation of an object can change the position or height of its centre of gravity and
affect its stability.
3.13 Investigate the relationship between extension and force.
Interpretation of simple force-extension graphs. Identification of regions of proportionality
for springs.
3.14 Solve problems using Hooke’s law.
Problems involving springs and elastic bands only.
4. DYNAMICS
MOTION IN A STRAIGHT LINE
4.1 Define the terms: distance, displacement, speed, velocity, acceleration.
Distance and displacement,s or x; speed and velocity, v; acceleration, 𝑎 = 𝑣−𝑢 𝑡 .
4.2 Apply displacement time and velocity time graphs.
Finding the gradient for straight lines only.
Aristotle
4.3 Discuss Aristotle's arguments in support of his "law of motion”, that is, v F"; Aristotle’s
law was eventually discredited.
Newton's Laws
4.4 State Newton's three laws of motion.
4.5. Use Newton's laws to explain dynamic systems.
4.6 Define linear momentum.
Units of kg ms1 Ns
4.7 Define linear momentum describe situations that demonstrate the law of conservation of
linear momentum.
4.8 Apply the law of conservation of linear momentum.
5. ENERGY
Forms of Energy
5.1 Define energy
Unit: Joule.
5.2 Identify the various forms of energy.
Gravitational, elastic, chemical, electrical, magnetic, electromagnetic, thermal, nuclear,
kinetic, sound.
5.3 Describe the energy transformation(s) in a given situation.
Transformations should be limited to one-step or twostep only. Note that thermal energy is
always a product and by-product of every transformation. Examples of the conversion of
electrical energy to other forms and vice versa.
5.4 Apply the relationship: work = force x displacement
Unit: Joule.
5.5 Discuss the use of energy from alternative sources, and its importance to the Caribbean.
Emphasis on examples relevant to the Caribbean, to include hydroelectricity, geothermal
energy, tidal energy waves, solar energy, wind energy, nuclear energy. More efficient and
economical use of energy.
Potential Energy, Ep
5.6 Define potential energy
5.7 Calculate the change in gravitational potential energy using:
𝐸𝑝 = 𝑚𝑔ℎ
Kinetic Energy, Ek
5.8 Define kinetic energy.
5.9 Calculate kinetic energies using the expression: 𝐸𝑘 = 1/ 2 𝑚𝑣 2
Conservation.
5.10 Apply the law of conservation of energy.
Use different energy forms in these problems. Conversion of P.E. to K.E. on a moving swing,
pendulum, kicking a football.
Power, P
5.11 Define power and apply definition; Unit: Watt
Apply: 𝑃 = 𝐸/ 𝑡
5.12 Explain the term efficiency
5.13 Calculate efficiency in given situations.
Efficiency = output value x 100% input value.
6. HYDROSTATICS
6.1 Define pressure and apply definition.
Apply:𝑃 = 𝐹 /𝐴 .
6.2 Relate the pressure at a point in a fluid to its depth and the density.
Apply: Δ 𝑝 = p𝑔 Δ ℎ (for fluid pressure); (Pascal) Pa Nm-2 . All points on the same
horizontal level in a fluid at rest, have the same pressure.
6.3 Apply Archimedes’ principle to predict whether a body would float or sink in a given
fluid.
SECTION B - THERMAL PHYSICS AND KINETIC THEORY
Thermal physics is the study of heat, temperature and heat transfer. It can be explained in
terms of kinetic theory at the microscopic level. It helps us to capture the different phases of
matter.
SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
1. NATURE OF HEAT
1.1 Differentiate between the caloric and kinetic theories of heat as they existed in the
eighteenth century.
1. 2 Discuss the role of Joule’s experiments in establishing the principle of conservation of
energy.
2. MACROSCOPIC PROPERTIES AND PHENOMENA
2.1 Relate temperature to the direction of net thermal energy transfer; Temperature T, units.
2.2 Identify physical properties which vary with temperature and may be used as the basis for
measuring temperature.
2.3 Relate the use of a thermometer to its design.
2.4 Define the fixed points on the Celsius scale.
2.5 Relate the temperature of a body to the kinetic energy of molecules;
Phases of Matter
2.6 Distinguish among solids, liquid and gases.
Note the differences with respect to intermolecular forces, motion of molecules, shape and
volume of matter.
2.7 Use the Kinetic theory to explain the different macroscopic properties of solids, liquids
and gases
Expansion,
2.8 Explain observations of the effects of thermal expansion.
Gas Laws
2.9 Relate graphs of pressure or volume against temperature to the establishment of the
Kelvin temperature scale.
2.10 Use the relationship between Kelvin and Celsius scale.
T/K = / o C 273
2.11 Apply the gas laws
(a) Boyle’s Law – PV=constant
(b) Charles’ Law – V/T = constant
(c) Pressure Law – P/T = constant
(d) General Gas Law - 𝑃𝑉/𝑇 = constant
2.12 Give qualitative explanations of the gas laws in terms of the Kinetic theory.
Explain gas pressure in terms of molecular motion.
3. THERMAL MEASUREMENTS
Specific Heat Capacity, c
3.1 Distinguish between specific heat capacity, ‘c’ and heat capacity ‘C
Note that specific heat capacity and heat capacity are related by the formula C = mc.
3.2 Apply the relationship EH = mc ΔѲ, or EH = mc ΔT
3.3 Determine the specific heat capacity of metals and liquid
Use electrical method and method of mixtures
Specific Latent Heat, l
3.4 Demonstrate that temperature remains constant during a phase change
3.5 Apply the relationship EH = ml
3.6 Determine the specific latent heat of vaporization lv, and fusion, lf of water.
Unit: Jkg 1 Use an electrical method
3.7 Distinguish between evaporation and boiling.
Use the Kinetic theory to explain evaporation and boiling. Give examples of application of
cooling effect of evaporation - air conditioners, earthenware vessels, refrigerators,
perspiration.
4. TRANSFER OF THERMAL ENERGY
4.1 Explain the transfer of thermal energy by conduction.
Relate the fact that air is a very poor conductor to the insulation properties of certain
materials, for example, expanded polystyrene, hollow blocks.
4.2 Explain the transfer of thermal energy by convection
Relate convection to common phenomena, for example, land and sea breezes.
4.3 Explain the transfer of thermal energy by radiation.
4.4 Conduct experiments to investigate the factors on which absorption and emission of
radiation depend.
Factors limited to:
(a) Texture of surface (rough, smooth)
(b) Nature of surface (shiny, dull)
(c) Colour of surface (black, white)
(d) Area of surface.
4.5 recall that good absorbers are good emitters.
4.6 Relate the principles of thermal energy transfer to the design of devices.
Conduction, convection, radiation. Vacuum flask and solar water heater. Explanation of the
glass house (green house) effect, including role of atmospheric CO2. Global Warming.
SECTION C - WAVES AND OPTICS
Wave theory represents the branch of Physics that deals with wave processes. It is significant
to the understanding of sound phenomena. Light, which is electromagnetic in origin, is
fundamental to the understanding of optics.
GENERAL OBJECTIVES On completion of this Section, students should:
1. Appreciate that wave motion is a means of transferring energy and that there are certain
features common to all waves.
2. Understand the way in which sound waves are produced and propagated.
3. Understand the properties of the electromagnetic spectrum.
4. Be familiar with the historical development of the theory of light.
5. Appreciate how a ray treatment facilitates the understanding of reflection and refraction of
light waves.
SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
Students should be able to:
1. WAVE MOTION
Types of Waves
1. 1 Differentiate between types of waves
Wave Parameters
1. 2 Apply speed, frequency, wavelength, period and amplitude
Use:𝑣 = 𝑓 𝜆.
1. 3 Represent transverse and longitudinal waves in displacementposition and
displacement-time graphs.
2. SOUND
Production and Propagation
2.1 Describe how sound is produced and propagated in a medium.
Sound is transmitted as a longitudinal wave and is produced by vibrating systems
2.2 Relate the terms ‘pitch’ and ‘loudness’ to wave parameters
Pitch - frequency
Loudness - amplitude.
Recall the range of frequencies detectable by the normal human ear.
Speed of Sound
2.3 Apply the speed of sound to practical situations
2.4 Cite evidence that sound waves reflect, refract, diffract and interfere.
Reflect – echoes
Refract – sound
travelling from air to
water.
Diffract – hearing
sound around
corners/barriers.
Interfere – sound
Systems.
2.5 Describe the use of ultrasound.
Definition of ultrasound; pre-natal and materials testing.
3. ELECTROMAGNETIC WAVES
3.1 State the properties of e.m. waves.
For example, travels same speed, are transverse and propagates in a vacuum.
3.2 Differentiate between types of e.m. waves in terms of their wavelengths
Radio, infrared, visible, ultraviolet, x-rays, Yrays. Discuss the spectrum.
3.3 Identify a source and use of each type of e.m. wave.
4. LIGHT WAVES
Wave Particle Duality
4.1 Compare the rival theories of light held by scientists
Theories of Huygens, Newton, Young, Einstein.
Recall that in the twentieth century experiments have provided evidence that light has both a
particle and a wave nature.
Knowledge of the photo-electric effect not required. Photo sensors, digital cameras.
Diffraction and interference.
Rays of Light
4.3 Explain why the diffraction of light is not normally observed
Wavelength comparable to the width of slit.
4.4 Apply the principle that light travels in straight lines
Use straight lines to represent beams. Shadows, eclipses, pin hole camera.
Reflection
4.5 Apply the laws of reflection
4.6 Describe the formation of images in a plane mirror
Object and image distances are equal. The image is virtual and the object size is equal to the
image size.
Refraction
4.7 Give examples of observations which indicate that light can be refracted
Appearance of water on the road, apparent depth of swimming pool. Refraction occurs as a
result of the change of speed of light.
4.8 Describe the refraction of light rays
Recall that the passage of a ray of light through a rectangular block may results in lateral
displacement of that ray.
4.9 Describe how a prism may be used to produce a spectrum
Use a source of white light. Newton’s experiment with prisms.
4.10 Apply Snell’s Law
Definition of refractive index.
Perform an experiment to test Snell’s Law.
Critical Angle and Total Internal Reflection
4.11 Explain ‘critical angle’ and ‘total internal reflection’
4.12 Relate critical angles to total internal reflection.
Definition of total internal reflection.
4.13 Draw diagrams illustrating applications of total internal reflection.
5. LENSES
Action of Lenses
5.1 Illustrate the effect of converging and diverging lenses on a beam of parallel rays
5.2 define the terms:
(a) principal axis
(b) principal focus
(c) focal length
(d) focal plane
(e) magnification
Image Formation
5.3 Differentiate between real and virtual images
5.4 Apply the equations for magnification
Magnification = image size/ object size = image distance (v)/object distance (u)
5.5 Determine the focal length of a converging lens.
Use lens formula and scale diagram
SECTION D – ELECTRICITY AND MAGNETISM
In this section, Electricity and Magnetism, we explore electrical, magnetic and
electromagnetic principles and phenomena. The importance of electronics in modern society
is also introduced.
GENERAL OBJECTIVES
On completion of this Section, students should:
Understand electrostatic phenomena;
Understand the ways in which electricity is conducted;
Understand electrical quantities and the relations between them;
Have a working knowledge of electrical circuits and components;
Be aware of the applications of electronics in technology;
Understand the simple phenomena associated with magnets;
Have a working knowledge of electromagnetic phenomena.
SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
1. ELECTROSTATICS
Electric Charge, Q
1.1 Explain the charging of objects
Explain in terms of properties of electrons which are relatively free to move; charging of
glass, perspex or polythene by rubbing with a dry cloth explained in terms of electron transfer
by friction.
1.2 Describe the forces that electric charges exert on each other
The forces between charges are a fundamental property of electric charges.
1.3 Explain charging by induction
How a charged object can attract objects having zero net charge.
Electric Fields
1.4 Define an electric field
Draw the electric fields around and between point charges, and between charged parallel
plates. Refer also to other force fields such as gravitational and magnetic.
1.5 Describe one hazard and one useful application of static charge
Applications include electrostatic painting, dust extraction, photocopying. Hazards include
lightning strikes, static build up on vehicles.
2. CURRENT ELECTRICITY
2.1 Distinguish between conductors and insulators
Definitions, properties and classification.
2.2 State that an electric current in a metal consists of a flow of electrons
In other conducting media, an electric current may consist of the movement of both negative
and positive charge carriers. Example: silicon and germanium in semiconductors, electrolytes
in batteries.
2.3 Differentiate between electron flow and conventional current
The convention behind current flow.
2.4 State the unit of electrical current
Ampere (A).
2.5 Apply the relationship Q=It
The unit of charge, the coulomb, can be obtained from this equation. Thus, 1 Coulomb=1
Ampsecond.
Alternating Current
2.6 Differentiate between direct and alternating currents
Recognise that current reverses direction of flow in a.c. systems. Represent direct and
alternating currents with current-time or voltage-time graphs.
2.7 Analyse current-time or voltage-time graphs
Use f=1/T. Deduce the period and frequency of alternating currents or voltages.
3. ELECTRICAL QUANTITIES
Power, P and Energy, E
3.1 Cite examples of the conversion of electrical energy to other forms and vice versa
For example: lamps, heaters, motors, generators.
3.2 Apply the relationship V=E/Q
Definition of terms and their units.
3.3 Apply the relationship P=IV
Compare consistency of units for P=IV and P=E/t.
3.4 Discuss the importance of conserving electrical energy and the means of doing so
Limited reserves of fossil fuels hence the need to conserve. Measures include
fluorescent/LED lamps instead of incandescent lamps, solar water heaters instead of electrical
or gas, high-efficiency refrigeration and air conditioning units.
4. CIRCUITS AND COMPONENTS
Circuit Diagrams
4.1 Use symbols to construct circuit diagrams
Refer to list of graphical symbols.
4.2 Differentiate between series and parallel circuits
Consider series, parallel, and series-parallel combinations and polarity of devices.
Cells
4.3 Explain the functions of the various parts of a zinc-carbon cell
Identify the parts of the cell and their functions. Mention that there are other types of primary
cells.
4.4 Distinguish between primary and secondary cells
Compare characteristics such as: terminal voltage, maximum current, internal resistance,
portability, rechargeability.
4.5 Draw a circuit diagram to show how a secondary cell can be recharged
Note polarity and charging voltage.
I–V Relationships
4.6 Investigate the relationship between current and potential difference
Metallic conductors at constant temperature, filament lamps, semiconductor diodes, copper
sulphate solution using copper electrodes.
Resistance, R
4.7 Explain the concept of resistance
Note that resistance varies with the current in some cases.
4.8 Apply the relationship R=V/I
Ohm’s Law.
4.9 Explain why it is necessary for an ammeter to have a very low resistance.
4.10 Explain why it is necessary for a voltmeter to have a very high resistance.
4.11 Solve problems involving series and parallel resistance
Use the formulae:
For resistors in series:
For resistors in parallel:
4.12 Solve problems involving series, parallel and series-parallel circuits
Properties of current and potential difference in series and parallel circuits.
Electricity in the Home
4.13 Discuss the reasons for using parallel connections of domestic appliances.
4.14 Explain the purpose of a fuse or circuit breaker and the earth wire
Highlight safety issues. Include fuse in live wire.
4.15 Select a fuse or circuit breaker of suitable current rating for a given appliance.
4.16 State the adverse effects of connecting electrical appliances to incorrect or fluctuating
voltage supplies.
5. ELECTRONICS
5.1 Describe how a semiconductor diode can be used in half-wave rectification
Sketch voltage-time graphs before and after rectification.
5.2 Differentiate between direct current from batteries and rectified alternating current by
consideration of the V–t graphs for both cases.
Logic Gates
5.3 Recall the symbols for AND, OR, NOT, NAND, NOR logic gates
Limited to two-input logic gates.
5.4 State the function of each gate with the aid of truth tables.
5.5 Analyse circuits involving combinations of not more than three logic gates
Example: simple alarm circuits.
5.6 Discuss the impact of electronic and technological advances on society.
6. MAGNETISM
Permanent Magnets
6.1 Differentiate between magnetic and non-magnetic materials.
6.2 Explain how a magnet can attract an unmagnetised object.
6.3 Distinguish between materials used to make permanent and temporary magnets
Permanent magnets: steel, magnadur.
Temporary magnets: iron, mumetal.
6.4 Identify the poles of a magnetic dipole
Alignment with the earth’s magnetic field.
Magnetic Forces
6.5 Investigate the forces between magnetic poles
Effect of polarity and separation on magnitude of the force.
6.6 Define a magnetic field
A magnetic field line indicates the direction of the magnetic force acting on an N-pole.
6.7 Map magnetic fields
Use iron filings and plotting compass. Around a single magnet and between two magnets
oriented parallel, anti-parallel, and pole-to-pole.
7. ELECTROMAGNETISM
7.1 Conduct simple experiments to investigate the magnetic field pattern around
current-carrying conductors
Straight conductors, flat coils, solenoids.
7.2 Apply suitable rules relating the direction of current flow to the direction of the magnetic
field
Right-hand grip rule, right-hand screw rule.
7.3 Describe a commercial application of an electromagnet
Example: starter motor, magnetic relay.
Electromagnetic Force
7.4 Conduct an experiment to demonstrate the existence of a force on a current-carrying
conductor placed in a magnetic field.
7.5 Sketch the resultant magnetic flux pattern when a current-carrying wire is placed
perpendicular to a uniform magnetic field.
7.6 Apply Fleming’s left-hand (motor) rule
Predict what will happen when current flows perpendicular to a uniform magnetic field.
7.7 Identify the factors that affect the force on a current-carrying conductor in a magnetic
field
Depends on strength of the field and magnitude of the current.
Motors
7.8 Explain the action of a D.C. motor
Draw a diagram of a simple D.C. motor.
Induced e.m.f.
7.9 Describe simple activities which demonstrate an induced e.m.f.
Example: moving coil and magnets, two coils.
7.10 Conduct simple experiments to show the magnitude of the induced e.m.f.
Effect of rate of change of magnetic flux experienced by the conductor.
7.11 Predict the direction of induced current given the direction of motion of the conductor
and that of the magnetic field.
7.12 Explain the action of the A.C. generator
Sketch graphs to represent the output from a simple A.C. generator.
Transformers
7.13 Explain the principle of operation of a transformer
Diagram of a simple transformer.
7.14 State the advantages of using a.c. for transferring electrical energy.
7.15 Apply the ideal transformer formula
SECTION E – THE PHYSICS OF THE ATOM
This is the branch of physics that studies the structure of the atom and the interaction of the
sub-atomic particles of matter and electromagnetic fields. Students will appreciate how
energy can be released from inside the atom and become aware of its impact on society and
the environment.
GENERAL OBJECTIVES
On completion of this Section, students should:
Appreciate the development of atomic theory and the concept of the nucleus;
Understand how the elements differ in atomic structure;
Be familiar with the phenomenon of radioactivity and the safety measures when dealing with
radioactive substances;
Know that a change in the nuclear mass is associated with the release of energy;
Appreciate the importance of nuclear energy on society and the environment.
SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
1. MODELS OF THE ATOM
1.1 Describe the work done in establishing the modern view of the atom
Include Thomson, Rutherford, Bohr, Chadwick.
1.2 Describe the Geiger–Marsden experiment
Establishes the nuclear structure of the atom.
Consider that the nucleus contains protons and neutrons of approximately equal mass.
2. STRUCTURE OF THE ATOM
Particles in the Atom
2.1 Sketch the structure of simple atoms
Include the distribution of charge.
2.2 Compare the mass and charge of the electron with the mass and charge of the proton
Mention absolute values in kg and C.
2.3 Explain why an atom is normally neutral and stable.
2.4 Apply the relationship A=Z+N
Use of standard notation for representing a nuclide:
2.5 Explain what is meant by the term “isotope.”
2.6 Relate the shell model of the atom to the periodic table
Any element in the periodic table has one more proton than the element before it.
3. RADIOACTIVITY
Radioactive Emission
3.1 Describe Marie Curie’s work in the field of radioactivity
Research biography.
3.2 State the nature of the three types of radioactive emissions
Relationship between radioactivity and nuclear instability.
3.3 Describe experiments to compare the ranges of α, β, and γ emission.
3.4 Describe the appearance of the tracks of radioactive emissions in a cloud chamber
Details of cloud chamber operation not required.
3.5 Predict the effects of magnetic and electric fields on the motion of α and β particles and γ
rays.
3.6 Interpret nuclear reactions in standard form
Examples:
3.7 Conduct an activity to demonstrate the random nature of radioactive decay
Analogue demonstrations such as dice throwing or coin tossing.
3.8 Recall that the decay process is independent of external conditions.
Half-life
3.9 Use graphs of random decay to show that such processes have constant half-lives
Define half-life,
Use more than one set of values from the graph for comparison.
3.10 Solve problems involving half-life.
Radioisotopes
3.11 Discuss the useful applications of radioisotopes
Examples: tracers, medical and industrial applications, carbon dating.
Nuclear Energy
3.12 Relate the release of energy in a nuclear reaction to a change in mass
Application of Einstein’s equation:
ΔE=Δmc2.
Include fission and fusion.
3.13 Cite arguments for and against the utilisation of nuclear energy
Consider cost, environmental impact, disposal, and safety.
