Physics - Level 3
PHY3 Course DescriptionTeacher in Charge: Nigel Burling.
PrerequisitesIf you did not take a pathway course at Level 2, or achieved fewer than 12 credits externally in that course, you will need HOD approval.
A good level of Maths is recommended for this course.
Physics is the study of the relationship between matter and energy.
Physicists attempt to understand the fundamental mathematical relationships that govern natural phenomena and apply those relationships to interesting problems. The main reason to study physics is because you are curious about how the world works. In addition to that knowledge, you gain a set of incredibly useful skills that make you attractive to a wide range of employers.
This course trains you to become a competent problem solver. You will learn to break down a problem into its component parts and apply mathematics, computing, data analysis, and experimental techniques to arrive at a solution. We also emphasize technical writing and presentation skills, as well as working in teams.
Topics covered at Level 3:
•Modern Physics
•Applications of Physics
•Standing waves, the Doppler effect, wave interference
•Translation, circular motion, rotation and simple harmonic motion
•Practical investigations
•Internal resistance, capacitors, Inductors and AC circuits.
Course Overview
Term 1
Demonstrate understanding of Modern physics.
AS 91525 Phy 3.5 (3 Credits Internal)
Photoelectric Effect, Line Spectra, Binding Energy and nuclear stability, Decay, Fission, Fusion
Demonstrate understanding of mechanical systems.
AS 91523 Phy 3.4 (6 Credits External)
Centre of mass, vertical circular motion, banked corners, conical pendulums, rotational motion with constant angular acceleration, angular momentum, rotational inertia, rotational energy, simple harmonic motion.
Term 2
Carry out a practical investigation to test a physics theory relating two variables in a non-linear relationship.
AS 91521 Phy 3.1 (4 Credits Internal)
Demonstrate an understanding of wave systems.
AS 91523 Phy 3.3 (4 Credits)
Standing waves, Beats, Doppler effect, two point source interference, diffraction gratings.
Term 3
Demonstrate understanding of the application of physics to a selected context
AS 91522 Phy 2.2 (3 Credits Internal)
Demonstrate understanding of electricity systems.
AS 91526 Phy 3.6 (6 Credits External)
Kirchoff's Laws, Internal Resistance, Capacitors, Inductors, AC circuits
Term 4
Revision
Pathway
Physics - University and NZ Schol.
Contributions and Equipment/Stationery$25 (approximately)