INTRODUCTION TO PHYSICS

The primary school science syllabus covers topics such as matter and its properties, energy in its
various forms for example heat, light, sound and their corresponding sources, machines and the
way they make work easier, balancing and weighing of various shapes of objects, electricity and
magnetism. These topics and more are covered in physics.
PHYSICS AS A SCIENCE
Physics is a branch of science
Science is divided into 3 main branches:-
a) Physics
b) Chemistry
c) Biology
MEANING OF PHYSICS
Physics is the study of matter and its relation to energy.
Matter is anything that occupies space and has weight.
As a subject, the study of physics involves measurement of quantities and collection of data.
Through experimentation and observation, hypotheses are drawn, test and laws and principles
established.
Physics involves explaining phenomena such as:
a) The falling of bodies towards the ground,
b) Rising up of liquids through a drinking straw,
c) Seasonal occurrence of tides,
d) A plastic pen rubbed against dry fur or hair picks small pieces of paper,
e) A crackling sound is heard when a nylon cloth is removed etc.
BRANCHES OF PHYSICS
Physics may be split into the following key areas;
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) Geometrical 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 AND OTHER SUBJECTS
Physics and Mathematics
Many concepts in physics like laws, effects, principles etc. are expressed mathematically.
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.
Physics and Home Science Physics knowledge is used in designing and manufacture of kitchen
equipment e.g. electric cookers, microwave ovens, energy saving jikos etc.

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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 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 Chemistry
 Physics has helped in explaining the nature of particles within atoms and therefore atomic
structure of substances.
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.
 Information technology has reduced the world into a global village through use of
satellites and microwave dishes which relay information over extremely long distances
in fractions of a second.
 Physics have contributed to the entertainment through refinement of sound and colour
mixing techniques to create special effects in stage presentation.
Physics and religion
Systems in the universe reveal great orderliness which can be traced back to the creator. Study of
physics comes up with findings that are in total agreement with the orderliness such as.
 The earth faithfully maintains its rotation so that the sun will always rise from east and
never from the west.
 The anomalous expansion of water and its implications on aquatic life
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 e.g janitor
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

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BASIC LABARATORY RULES
LABARATORY- is a special room designed and equipped conducting experiments and
practical.

BASIC LABARATORY RULES

1. Proper dressing must be put on. Shirts and blouses must be tucked in and long hair tied up.
2. Note the location of electricity switches, fire-fighting equipments, First aid kit, gas supply and
water supply taps.
3. When in the laboratory open doors and windows to let in fresh air.
4. Follow instructions given carefully. Never attempt anything while in doubt.
5. No eating or drinking in the laboratory.
6. Turn off electrical switches, gas and water taps when not in use.
7. When handling electrical apparatus hands must be dry.
8. Do not plug foreign objects into electrical sockets.
9. Keep floors and working surfaces dry.
10. Clean and return all apparatus used in their correct location.
11. All equipments should not be taken out of the laboratory.
12. Wash your hands before leaving the laboratory.

FIRST AID MEASURES

ACCIDENTS POSSIBLE CAUSE OF ACCIDENT FIRST AID MEASURES

Cuts  Poor handling of glass apparatus and  Seek assistance to stop

cutting tools i.e. scalpels and razors bleeding
 Immediate dressing of the
wound
Burns  Naked Flames  In case of a burn caused by
 Splashes of concentrated acids and an acid or a base, quickly
bases run cold water over the
affected part as you seek for
further treatment
Poisoning  Inhaling poisonous fumes  Seeking immediate
 Accidental swallowing of poisonous assistance
chemicals

Eye damage  Bits of solids  In case of irritating

 Dangerous chemicals chemicals wash your eyes
with a lot of clean water.

Electrical shock  Touching exposed (naked) wires  Put off the main switch first
 Using faulty electrical appliances before treating the shock

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