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Introduction:
Physics is the branch of science that deals with matter in relation to energy.
Matter is anything that occupies space and has weight. There are three states of matter and these are
i) Solids
ii) Liquids.
iii) Gases.
Energy is the ability to do work. There are different forms of energy and these are
i) Heat energy.
ii) Sound energy.
iii) Light energy.
iv) Chemical energy.
v) Solar energy.
vi) Nuclear energy.
vii) Mechanical energy [kinetic energy and potential energy].
The above forms will be discussed later in the coming topics
Atoms in Physics
Playground for kids
The above images show the existence of Physics in our daily life.
Career opportunities in Physics:
A student who has done physics has the following career opportunities
i) Electrical engineering.
ii) Civil engineering.
iii) Architecture.
iv) Mechanical engineering.
v) Geology.
vi) Chemical engineering.
vii) Astronomy.
viii) Information technology.
ix) Telecom engineering.
x) Teaching physics.
xi) Agricultural engineering.
xii) Medicine.
xiii) Phamarcy.
xiv) Petroleum engineering
Branches of Physics:
Physics has the following branches;
i) Mechanics.
ii) Optics [light and waves]
iii) Heat.
iv) Electricity [Electrostatics and Current]
v) Magnetism.
vi) Modern physics.
Sun glasses
magnets
Building caught by fire
students conducting an experiment in the laboratory
The physics laboratory
Most of the practical works in science, for example, experiments, tests, observations or investigations are conducted in a special place called a laboratory. A laboratory is a building, part of a building or other place specifically designed for scientific work. It contains many pieces of apparatus and materials for practical use. Apparatus is equipment or tools needed for a particular scientific activity or purpose. We use apparatus when we are carrying out an experiment. 6 Experiment is a scientific step-by-step process undertaken to make a discovery, test a proposed law or theory, or demonstrate a known fact.
The laboratory and its safety rules
For safety purposes, the following laboratory rules must be followed and observed while in the laboratory:
1. Locations of electrical switches, firefighting equipment, first aid kit, gas supply and water supply systems must be noted.
2. Windows and doors should be kept open while working in the laboratory.
3. Any instructions given must be followed carefully. NEVER attempt anything while in doubt.
4. There should no eating, drinking or chewing in the laboratory.
5. Ensure that all electrical switches, gas and water taps are turned off when not in use.
6. When handling electrical apparatus, hands must be dry.
7. Never plug in foreign materials into electrical sockets.
8. Shirts and blouses must be tucked in and long hair tied up.
9. Keep floors and working surfaces dry. Any spillage should be wiped off immediately.
10. All apparatus must be cleaned and returned to correct location of storage after use.
11. Laboratory equipment should not be taken out of laboratory unless authorized.
12. Any waste after an experiment must be disposed of immediately.
13. Hands must be washed before leaving the laboratory
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