Physics

Contact Denise Raven Email raven_d@materchristi.edu.au

Scope of study

The study of VCE Physics involves investigating, understanding and explaining the behaviour of physical phenomena in the Universe. Models, including mathematical models, are used to explore, simplify and predict how physical systems behave at varying scales from the very small (quantum and particle physics) through to the very large (astronomy and cosmology). Beginning with classical ideas and considering their limitations, and then being introduced to more modern explanations of the world, provides a novel lens through which students experience the world around them, drawing on their natural curiosity and wonder.

Conceptual understanding is developed as students study topics including light, atomic physics, radiation, thermal physics, electricity, fields, mechanics, quantum physics, and the nature of energy and matter. Students are given agency through a choice of options and in designing and undertaking their own investigations.

Rationale

VCE Physics enables students to use observations, experiments, measurements and mathematical analysis to develop qualitative and quantitative explanations for phenomena occurring from the subatomic scale to macroscopic scales. They explore the big ideas that changed the course of thinking in physics such as relativity and quantum physics. While much scientific understanding in physics has stood the test of time, many other areas continue to evolve, leading to the development of more complex ideas and technological advances and innovation. In undertaking this study, students develop their understanding of the roles of careful and systematic observation, experimentation and modelling in the development of theories and laws. They undertake practical activities and apply physics principles to explain and quantify phenomena.

Aims

This study enables students to:

• apply physics models, theories and concepts to describe, explain, analyse, and make predictions about diverse physical phenomena.

• understand and use the language and methodologies of physics to solve qualitative and quantitative problems in familiar and unfamiliar contexts.