CHAPTER ONE

PHYSICS AS A SCIENCE 

-Physics is a branch of science  

-Science is divided into 3 main branches:-

 a) Physics 

b) Chemistry

 c) Biology 

Physics is defined as the study of matter and it’s relation to energy.  It involves explaining phenomena such as:

I).The falling of bodies towards the ground, 

II).Rising up of liquids through a drinking straw,

 III).Seasonal occurrence of tides, 

IV).A plastic pen rubbed against dry fur or hair picks small pieces of paper,

 V).A crackling sound is heard when a nylon cloth is removed etc. 

Study of Physics

 The study of physics entails:

 i).Measurements of quantities and collection of data.

 ii).Drawing and testing of hypotheses through experiments and observation.

 iii).Establishment of laws and principles 

BRANCHES OF PHYSICS 

1. Mechanics:  It deals with the study of motion under the influence of force. 

2. Electricity and magnetism:  It deals with relationship between electric field and magnetic field and their applications in the working of motor, microphones, electro magnets etc. 

3. Thermodynamics:  It deals with the transformation of heat to and from other forms of energy and the accompanying changes in pressure, volume etc. 

4. Geometric optics:  It deals with the behavior of light as it passes through various media.  Properties of light like reflection, refraction etc. are studied in this branch of physics.

 5. Waves : It deals with propagation of energy through space and effects such as reflection, diffraction of light and sound waves. 

6. Atomic physics : It is deals with the study of the behavior of particles constituting the nucleus (centre) of the atom and their accompanying energy changes. 

Relationship between Physics, Other Subjects and Technology

 Physics And Geography

 Accurate use of weather instruments like thermometer, wind vane, rain gauges etc. require physics knowledge. Concepts like heat transfer by convection which explain the formation of convectional rainfall and pressure variation can be best explained in physics. 

Physics and Mathematics 

Many concepts in physics like laws, effects, principles etc. are expressed mathematically. Mathematical skills are therefore very instrumental in the leaning of physics

 Physics and Chemistry 

Physics has helped in explaining the nature of particles within atoms and therefore atomic structure of substances. Atomic structure of different / various substances determine their reactivity (chemical reactions). 

Physics and History 

Historians use carbon dating to establish ages of fossils and therefore past patterns of earlier life. This concept of carbon dating is explained better in atomic physics. 

Physics and Home Science 

Physics knowledge is used in designing and manufacture of kitchen equipment e.g. electric cookers, microwave ovens, and Mechanizing jikos etc. 

Physics and Technology

 Machines used in the field of medicine such as x-rays, body scanners and lasers are all applications of physics. Manufacture and use of satellites and microwave dishes used in information technology to relay information is based on physics knowledge Physics knowledge is also used in defense industry in the manufacture and use of most modern and complex machines. 

Physics and Biology

 Knowledge of lenses studied in physics has led to the manufacture of microscopes used in the study of the cell and diseases. 

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES IN PHYSICS 

-A career refers to a job or a profession that one has been trained for and intends to do for a long period of time e.g. teaching career, medicine, engineering, electrical technician etc.  

-A course refers to lessons in particular subject  

-An occupation refers to a job or a profession. 

Examples of courses offered at university level (degrees) that require physics knowledge 

(a) Bachelor of education (science) 

(b) Bachelor of Science (civil engineering) 

(c) Bachelor of medicine

 (d) Bachelor of architecture

 (e) Bachelor of technology (production engineering) 

Examples of courses offered at college level that require physics knowledge 

(a) Diploma in civil engineering 

(b) Diploma in computer science 

(c) Diploma in water technology 

(d) Diploma in laboratory technology 

THE LABORATORY 

A laboratory is a special room designed and equipped conducting experiments and practical. Major systems of the Laboratory 

i. Gas piping system

ii. Electrical energy supply system

iii. Water system Basic Laboratory

Basic Laboratory 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  

Revision Exercise 

1) Name 3 branches of science subject in secondary schools 

2) Explain the steps involved in scientific approach. 

3) Name and briefly explain the branches of physics 

4) Give instances where physics interdependent with agriculture.