PEPERIKSAANSIJIL TINGGI PERSEKOLAHAN MALAYSIA (STPM)(MALAYSIA HIGHER SCHOOL CERTIFICATE EXAMINATION)Syllabus and Specimen PapersMajlis Peperiksaan MalaysiaTHIS EXAMINATION SYLLABUS FOR STPM WILL BE USED STARTING FROM SEMESTER 1 2026 EXAMINATION IN NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025 UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.PHYSICS960
iiiISBN 978-983-2321-91-0© Majlis Peperiksaan Malaysia 202403 - 6126 1600www.mpm.edu.myMEC MPMHak cipta terpelihara. Tidak dibenarkan mengeluar ulang mana-mana bahagian isi kandungan buku ini dalam apa-apa bentuk dan dengan apa-apa cara pun, sama ada secara elektronik, fotokopi, mekanik, rakaman, atau cara-cara lain sebelum mendapat izin bertulis daripada Ketua Eksekutif, Majlis Peperiksaan Malaysia.Ditaip set dan dicetak oleh:Majlis Peperiksaan MalaysiaDiterbitkan oleh:Majlis Peperiksaan MalaysiaPersiaran 1, Bandar Baru Selayang68100 Batu Caves Selangor Darul Ehsan
iiiEducation in Malaysia is a continuous effort aimed at further developing the comprehensive and integrated potential of individuals. The goal is to create individuals who are balanced and harmonious in terms of intellect, spirituality, emotions, and physical well-being, grounded in belief and obedience to God. This effort is undertaken to cultivate Malaysian citizens who are knowledgeable, skilled, virtuous, responsible, and capable of achieving personal well-being. Additionally, it aims to enable individuals to contribute to the harmony and prosperity of families, communities, and the nation.N A T I O N A L E D U C A T I O N PHILOSOPHY
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vThe Malaysian Examinations Council (MEC), which was established on 1 February 1980 under the Malaysian Examinations Council Act (Act 225), is a statutory body which operates under the aegis of the Ministry of Education (MOE). Under the act, MEC is responsible for handling certain examinations including Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM). In addition to conducting examinations, MEC is also responsible for preparing the examination syllabus for each subject at STPM level.The revised examination syllabus is designed to replace the existing examination syllabus which has been in used since 2012 for the 2013 STPM examination cohort. The revision of the examination syllabus takes into account the views of teachers and lecturers, and the requirements and importance of education for the current STPM assessment system. The assessment system for Form Six still maintains three semesters, i.e the candidates sit for the examinations at the end of each semester. Since MEC introduced the new assessment system in 2012, the system has been able to improve the orientation of teaching and learning in Form Six which is parallel to the orientation of teaching and learning in colleges and universities. The revised examination syllabus will be used in 2025, which is for the examination of 2026 STPM semester 1 cohort.The revision of the examination syllabus takes into account the changes and improvement that need to be done by MEC towards the current examination syllabus. In the efforts of revising the examination syllabus, MEC has moved forward by involving the industry representatives in the committee to ensure that the content of the syllabus is in line with the current and future resource requirements, giving emphasis to the academic field. This is to ensure that the STPM students are able to use the ideas and knowledge gained when they enter the field of work later.The revision of the examination syllabus is a process of updating and reorganising topics, content, skills and assessment to be in line with current developments. The examination syllabus is giving the exposure to candidates about the knowledge that will be acquired at the university level. The content of the examination syllabus is arranged according to the candidate’s cognitive level and has continuity with the knowledge learned at the SPM level. In addition, the content of the examination syllabus is streamlined with the content that matches current needs. In relation to that, it is hoped that the examination syllabus can produce STPM graduates who are knowledgeable, mature and able to convey ideas effectively through various forms of communications.The effort to refine the examination syllabus was carried out by a committee consisting of lecturers, teachers with experience in teaching Form Six, MOE officers and industry representatives. On behalf of MEC, I would like to express my gratitude and appreciation to the committee for their services. MEC hopes that the examination syllabus will be a guide for teachers and candidates in the teaching and learning at Form Six centres. May the implementation of this examination syllabus succeed in achieving its goals.Chief ExecutiveMalaysian Examinations CouncilFOREWORD
vi viiWhy choose Physics STPM?STPM Physics syllabus is prepared to meet the global standard for pre university education. The preparation of the syllabus has gone through a thorough benchmarking process with A level syllabus from leading countries in education such as United Kingdom, Hong Kong and Singapore. STPM certificate is recognised by Cambridge Assessment and accepted for enrolment into first degree programmes by over 2000 universities worldwide. The challenging curriculum and comprehensive assessment in STPM tend to cultivate a mindset of determination, critical thinking, teamworking, contributing to a high achiever DNA among the STPM holders.ChairmanPhysics Examination Syllabus CommitteeStudying physics strengthens quantitative reasoning and problem solving skills that are valuable in area beyond physics. Studying physics or engineering physics also are prepared to work on forefront ideas in science and technology, in academia, the government, or the private sector.Malaysian Nuclear AgencyIndustry RepresentativeSTPM Physics syllabus is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of fundamental principles in physics. It offers the students the opportunity to explore the core concepts that underpin the workings of the universe.By incorporating practical components, the syllabus not only deepens the comprehension of physics concepts but also hones their laboratory skills, data analysis abilities, and critical thinking. These practical skills are highly transferable and can be invaluable for their future career and personal development, enabling them to contribute effectively in various scientific, engineering, and research endeavors. The syllabus not only enhances their theoretical knowledge but also equips them with problem-solving skills and a deeper appreciation for the physical world around us.STPM students have demonstrated their academic capabilities and achieved recognition on a global scale such as winning medals in National Physics Competition and International Physics Olympiad. The qualifications are not only recognised by local universities but also well known universities around the world for admission to further their academic studies.Teacher Representative
vi viiCareer ProspectsPhysics education provides an individual the fundamental and applied physics related to physical sciences and engineering. The skills acquired, like problem solving and analytical thinking, are highly transferable and in demand across various industries such as electrical and electronics, semiconductors, manufacturing and construction, environmental science, optoelectronic industry, optometry and computer science.Physics graduates have a wide range of career prospects. They can persue roles in research, academia, industries and more. Many works as research scientists, engineers, data analysts or consultants in sectors like technology, energy, finance and healthcare. Physics also provides a strong foundation for further education in the fields of science, engineering, computer science and even finance.STPM Graduates• Laboratory technician• Assisstant research officer• Assistant science officer• Assistant meteorologist• Assistant geophysicist• Assistant engineer• Assistant radiologist• Quality control assistantBachelor’s Degree Graduates• Lecturer/Teacher/Tutor• Research officer• Science officer• Meteorologist• Geophysicist/field seismologist• Radiation protection practitioners• Radiographer• Metallurgist• Engineer• Patent attorney• Radiologist
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ixCONTENTSIntroduction ............................................................................................... 1Aims .......................................................................................................... 1Objectives .................................................................................................. 1Scheme of Assessment .............................................................................. 2Contents .................................................................................................... 4Semester 1 .......................................................................................... 5Semester 2 .......................................................................................... 22Semester 3 .......................................................................................... 35Coursework ........................................................................................ 49Written Practical Test ......................................................................... 50List of References ..................................................................................... 51Performance Descriptions ......................................................................... 52STPM Grading System ............................................................................. 54Summary of Key Quantities and Units ..................................................... 55Values of constants .................................................................................... 58Specimen Papers Paper 1 ................................................................................................ 59Paper 2 ................................................................................................ 79Paper 3 ................................................................................................ 99Paper 4 ................................................................................................ 119Paper 5 ................................................................................................ 123PageSTPM Physics Examination Syllabus (960)Details about the STPM Examination Syllabus can be viewed on the MPM YouTube channel at the following link: https://www.youtube.com/@mpmselayang.
1IntroductionPhysics 960 is designed to cultivate students in understanding the concept of physics and its application in our daily lives. Physics 960 consists of three semesters covering the topics ofMechanics, Thermodynamics, Electricity and Magnetism, Oscillations and Waves, Optics and Modern Physics. It also exposes students to the practical experiences in laboratory works. Students will learn valuable skills such as critical thinking, problem solving, teamwork and leadership, and creative skills for the scientific exploration. Students learn to develop and test hypothesis, plan and conduct ethical investigation and appreciate the importance of evidence in forming conclusions.It is hoped that this syllabus will equip students with strong fundamental knowledge and skills to pursue study in physics related fields. It also nurtures a curiosity about the natural world and fosters critical thinking abilities that are valuable in solving various problems in daily life.AimsThe Physics syllabus aims to enhance candidates’ knowledge and understanding of physics to enable them to either further their studies at institutions of higher learning or assist them to embark on a related career and also to promote awareness of the role of physics in the universe.ObjectivesThe objectives of the syllabus are to enable candidates to:(a) Use models, concepts, principles, theories, and laws of physics;(b) Interpret and use scientific information presented in various forms;(c) Solve problems in various situations;(d) Analyse, synthesise, and evaluate information and ideas logically and critically;(e) Use techniques of operation and safety aspects of scientific equipment;(f) Plan and carry out experiments scientifically and make conclusions;(g) Develop proper attitudes, ethics and values in the study, and practice of physics.EXAMINATION SYLLABUS PHYSICS (960) STPM
2Scheme of AssessmentSemester of StudyCode and paper nameTheme/Title Type of test Mark (Weighting) Duration AdministrationSemester 1960/1Physics Paper 1Mechanics and ThermodynamicsWritten testSection A20 multiple-choice questions Section B 2 structured questions Section C2 essay questions 60(26.67%)2014261.5 hours CentralassessmentSemester 2960/2Physics Paper 2Electricity and MagnetismWritten testSection A20 multiple-choice questions Section B2 structured questions Section C2 essay questions60(26.67%)2014261.5 hours Centralassessment
3Semester of StudyCode and paper nameTheme/Title Type of test Mark (Weighting)Duration AdministrationSemester 3960/3Physics Paper 3Oscillations and Waves, Optics and Modern PhysicsWritten testSection A20 multiple-choice questions Section B 2 structuredquestions Section C2 essay questions60(26.67%)2014261.5 hours Centralassessment960/5Physics Paper 5Written Physics PracticalWritten practical test3 structured questions 45(20%)1.5 hours CentralassessmentSemesters1, 2, 3960/4Physics Paper 4Physics PracticalCoursework15 experiments 225 To be scaled to 45(20%)Throughout the three semestersSchool-based assessment
4ContentsPhysics syllabus is divided into three semesters:Semester Contents Teaching period1 Mechanics and Thermodynamics 1202 Electricity and Magnetism 1203 Oscillations and Waves, Optics and Modern Physics 120
5Semester 1FIRST SEMESTER: MECHANICS AND THERMODYNAMICSTopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical1 PhysicalQuantities and Units6 31.1 Dimensions of physical 3 Candidates should be able to:quantities (a) List base quantities and their SI units; (b) Identify dimensions of base quantities;(c) Explain and use dimensional analysis to determine the dimensions of derived quantities;(d) Verify the homogeneity of equations using dimensional analysis;(e) Construct empirical equations using dimensional analysis.1.2 Scalars andvectors1 Candidates should be able to:(a) Define scalar and vector quantities;(b) Determine the sum, the scalar product and vector product of coplanar vectors;(c) Resolve a vector into two perpendicular components.1.3 Uncertaintiesin measurements2 3 Candidates should be able to:(a) Explain systematic errors and random errors in measurements;
6TopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical(b) Calculate error by using the standard deviation method 2( )1;x xN −=−Knowledge of using scientific calculator to calculate the standard deviation is needed.(c) Calculate the uncertainty in a derived quantity;Trigonometryfunction is not required.(d) Express a derived quantity to an appropriate number ofsignificant figures.2 Kinematics 6 32.1 Linear motion 2 Candidates should be able to:(a) Derive equations of motion with constant acceleration;Prior knowledge ofdisplacement, speed, velocity and acceleration is needed.(b) Sketch and use the graphs of displacement-time, velocity-time and acceleration-time for the motion of a body with constant acceleration;(c) Solve problems on motion of a body with constant acceleration.2.2 Projectiles 4 3 Candidates should be able to:(a) Describe projectile motion;(b) Solve problems on projectile motion without air resistance;(c) Explain the effects of airresistance on the motion of bodies in air.
7TopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical3 Dynamics 11 33.1 Newton’s laws of 4 Candidates should be able to:motion (a) State Newton’s laws of motion;Prior knowledge of momentum is required.(b) Apply Newton’s laws of motion to solve problems;(c) Derive the formula d dd d;v m F m vt t= +(d) Solve problems using d dd dv m F m vt t= +for constant m or constant v only.3.2 Linear momentum and its conservation3 Candidates should be able to:(a) State the principle of conservation of linearmomentum;(b) Verify the principle of conservation of linear momentum using Newton’s laws of motion;(c) Apply the principle of conservation of linear momentum;(d) Explain impulsive force;(e) Define impulse asF t d ;(f) Solve problems involving impulse.
8TopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical3.3 Elastic and inelastic collisions2 Candidates should be able to:(a) Explain elastic and inelastic collisions;Concept of coefficient of restitution is not required.(b) Distinguish between elastic and inelastic collisions;(c) Solve problems involving collisions between bodies in one and two dimensions.3.4 Frictional forces2 3 Candidates should be able to:(a) Explain frictional forces;(b) Distinguish between static friction and kinetic friction;(c) Define coefficient of static friction and coefficient of kinetic friction;(d) Explain the variation offrictional force with sliding force;(e) Solve problems involvingfrictional force.4 Work, Energy and Power64.1 Work 2 Candidates should be able to:(a) Define work done by a force, d d W = • F s;(b) Calculate work done using a force-displacement graph;(c) Solve problems involving work done by a constant orvariable force.Includes thework done ina spring
9TopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical4.2 Potential energy and kinetic energy3 Candidates should be able to:(a) Derive and use the formula of potential energy change, U = mgh, near the surface of the Earth;(b) Derive and use the formula of kinetic energy, 1 22K mv = ;(c) Apply the principle of conservation of energy in situations involving kinetic energy, potential energy andwork done against friction;Prior knowledge of principle ofconservation of energy is needed.(d) Deduce and use the work-energy theorem. = • K F s R4.3 Power 1 Candidates should be able to:(a) Derive and use the formulaP = Fv;(b) Explain the concept of efficiency of a system;(c) Use the concept of efficiency to solve problems.5 Circular Motion 85.1 Angular displacement and angular velocity1 Candidates should be able to:(a) Define angular displacement; (b) Define angular velocity;(c) Derive and use the formula v = r .
10TopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical5.2 Centripetalacceleration3 Candidates should be able to:(a) Explain that uniform circular motion has an acceleration due to the change in direction of velocity;(b) Derive and use the formulae for centripetal acceleration 2var=and2a r = .5.3 Centripetal force4 Candidates should be able to:(a) Explain that uniform circular motion is due to the action of a resultant force which is always directed towards the centre of the circle; Knowledge of tangential acceleration is not required.(b) Use the formulae for centripetal force,2mv Fr=and 2F mr = , to solve problems involving (i) uniform horizontal circular motion for a point mass, (ii) vertical circular motion for a point mass.6 Gravitation 116.1 Newton’s law of universal gravitation1 Candidates should be able to:(a) State Newton’s law of universal gravitation; (b) Use the formula2GMm Fr= .6.2 Gravitational field2 Candidates should be able to:(a) Explain gravitational field;
11TopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical(b) Define gravitational field strength as force of gravity per unit mass;(c) Use the equation gGMr=2for a gravitational field;(d) Explain the variation of gravitational field strength with distance from the centre of the Earth and latitude on the surface of the Earth.Calculation for variation with latitude is limited to the equator and the poles.6.3 Gravitational potential3 Candidates should be able to:(a) Define the gravitational potential at a point in a gravitational field;(b) Derive and use the formula ;GM Vr= −(c) Use the formula for potential energy, ;GMm Ur= −(d) Show that U = mgr = mghis a special case ofUGMmr= −for situations near to the surface of the Earth;(e) Explain and use the relationshipdd;Vgr= −(f) Explain the variation of gravitational potential withdistance from the surface of the Earth.
12TopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical6.4 Satellite motion in a circular orbit3 Candidates should be able to:(a) Describe a satellite as a body moving in a circular orbit around a planet under the influence of gravitational force;(b) Solve problems involving satellites moving in circular orbits in a gravitational field including energies of satellite and geosynchronous satellite;Prior knowledge of Kepler’s laws is required.(c) Explain weightlessness.6.5 Escape velocity2 Candidates should be able to:(a) Explain escape velocity;(b) Derive and use the equation for escape velocity,e2.GMvr=7 Rotation of Rigid body12 37.1 Centre of mass and centre of gravity for a system ofparticles2 Candidates should be able to:(a) Define the centre of mass of a system; (b) Use the formulae i iim xxm=and i iim yym=to determine the centre of mass for a system of particles in a plane;(c) Describe the path of the centre of mass of a two-particle system in motion;(d) Define centre of gravity;
13TopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical(e) State the condition in whichthe centre of mass is the centre of gravity.7.2 Moment of inertia2 3 Candidates should be able to:(a) Define moment of inertia; The moment of inertia of various shapes will be given in solving problems.(b) Use the equation2I mr = to determine the moment of inertia for a system of particles.7.3 Torque and angular acceleration3 Candidates should be able to:(a) Define torque; (b) Use the formula = r F;(c) Define angular acceleration,dd;t =(d) Use the formula = I ;(e) Use the equations of rotational motion with constant angular accelerationto solve problems.7.4 Angularmomentum and conservation of angular momentum3 Candidates should be able to:(a) Define angular momentum; (b) Use the formula L I = ;(c) State the principle of conservation of angularmomentum;(d) Apply the principle of conservation of angular momentum.
14TopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical7.5 Rotational kinetic energy2 Candidates should be able to:(a) Define rotational kineticenergy; Rotation about a fixed axis without translational motion(b) Use the formula1 22K I = .8 Statics 58.1 Equilibrium of particles and rigid bodies5 Candidates should be able to:(a) State the condition for the equilibrium of a particle;(b) Solve problems involving forces in equilibrium at a point;(c) State the conditions for the equilibrium of a rigid body;(d) Sketch and label the forceswhich act on a particle and a rigid body;(e) Solve problems involving forces in equilibrium.Includes the triangle of forces to represent forces in equilibrium9 Deformation of Solids69.1 Stress andstrainCandidates should be able to:1 (a) Define stress and strain for a stretched wire or elastic string;(b) Use the formulae stress = FAand strain = .
15TopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical9.2 Force against extension graph and stressagainst strain graph3 Candidates should be able to:(a) Sketch force against extension graph and stress against strain graph;(b) Identify and explain theproportional limit, elastic limit, yield point and tensile strength from the graphs;Prior knowledge of Hooke’s law is required.(c) Distinguish between elastic and plastic deformations;(d) Distinguish the shapes of force against extension graphs for ductile, brittle and polymeric materials;(e) Define Young’s modulus;(f) Solve problems involving Young’s modulus.9.3 Strain energy 2 Candidates should be able to:(a) Explain strain energy;(b) Derive and use the formula 12U F = for strain energy;(c) Calculate strain energy from force against extension graph or stress against strain graph.10 Kinetic Theory of Gases 1110.1 Ideal gas equation1 Candidates should be able to:(a) Define an ideal gas; (b) Use the ideal gas equation,pV = nRT.
16TopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical10.2 Pressure of a gas3 Candidates should be able to:(a) State the assumptions of the kinetic theory for ideal gas; (b) Distinguish between ideal and real gases; (c) Derive and use the equation for the pressure exerted by an ideal gas,1 23p = c .10.3 Molecular kinetic energy3 Candidates should be able to:(a) State the relationship between the Boltzmann constant and molar gas constant, ;ARkN=(b) Use the formula;ARkN=(c) Derive and use the equationfor the mean translational kinetic energy of a molecule,1 3 22 2mc kT = ;(d) Calculate the root mean square speed of gas molecules.10.4 Degrees of freedom and law of equipartition of energy2 Candidates should be able to:(a) Define the degrees of freedomof a gas molecule;(b) Identify the modes of motion and the degrees of freedom of a monatomic, diatomic or polyatomic molecule at room temperature;
17TopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical(c) Explain the variation in the degrees of freedom of a diatomic molecule ranging from very low to very high temperatures;Very lowtemperature is 30 K and very high temperatureis 3000 K(d) State the law of equipartition of energy;(e) Apply the law of equipartition of energy.10.5 Internal energy of an ideal gas2 Candidates should be able to:(a) Explain internal energy of an ideal gas;(b) Derive and use the relationship between the internal energy and degreesof freedom.11 Thermodynamics of Gases1311.1 Molar heatcapacity1 Candidates should be able to:(a) Define molar heat capacity at constant pressure and atconstant volume;Prior knowledge of specific heat capacity isrequired.(b) Use the equations Q nC T = V,mand Q nC T =p,mΔ ; 11.2 Work done by gas2 Candidates should be able to:(a) Derive and use the equation for work done by a gas,W p V = d ;
18TopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical(b) Deduce the work done by the gas in an isobaric process at constant pressureW p V nR T = = ;(c) Deduce work done by a gas from p-V graph.11.3 First law of thermodynamics5 Candidates should be able to:(a) State the first law of thermodynamics;(b) Explain the first law of thermodynamics;(c) Apply the first law of thermodynamics,Q U W = + ;(d) Deduce the relationship of = U nC T V m,from the first law of thermodynamics in an isochoric process atconstant volume;(e) Derive and use the equation , ,; C C R p m V m− =(f) Derive and use ,2V mfC R =and,22;p mfC R += (g) Define as a ratio of molar heat capacities,,,;p mV mCC(h) Use to identify the types of molecules.
19TopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical11.4 Isothermal and adiabaticchanges5 Candidates should be able to:(a) Describe the isothermal process of a gas;(b) Use the equation pV =constant for isothermal changes;(c) Describe the adiabatic process of a gas;(d) Use the equations =γpVconstant and =γ−1TVconstant for adiabatic changes;(e) Illustrate thermodynamic processes with p-V graphs;(f) Derive and use the expression for work done in the thermodynamic processes.12 Heat Transfer 10 312.1 Conduction 5 3 Candidates should be able to:(a) Explain the mechanism of heat conduction in metals and non-metals;(b) Explain steady state in thermal conduction; (c) Define temperature gradient;(d) State the relationship between the rate of heat flow, cross sectional area and temperature gradient, d dd d;QAt x(e) Define thermal conductivity;
20TopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical(f) Use the equation xkAtQdddd = − for heatconduction in one dimension;(g) Describe heat conduction through a cross-sectional area of layers of different materials;(h) Solve problems involving heat conduction through a cross-sectional area of layers of different materials; (i) Distinguish between heat conduction through insulated rods and heat conductionthrough non-insulated rods.12.2 Convection 1 Candidates should be able to:(a) Explain heat transfer by convection; (b) Distinguish between naturaland forced convections.12.3 Radiation 3 Candidates should be able to:(a) Explain heat transfer by radiation;(b) Use Stefan-Boltzmann equation,d 4d;Qe ATt= (c) Define a black body;(d) Sketch the emission spectra of a black body at different temperatures;(e) Explain the emission spectra of a black body at different temperatures;(f) State Wien’s displacement law;
21TopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical(g) Apply T = b max, to explainthe effect of temperature on max.12.4 Global warming1 Candidates should be able to:(a) Explain the greenhouse effect and global warming;(b) Suggest ways to reduce global warming.Total 105 15
22Semester 2SECOND SEMESTER: ELECTRICITY AND MAGNETISMTopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical13 Electrostatics 12 Candidates should be able to:13.1 Coulomb’s law2 (a) State Coulomb’s law;(b) Apply Coulomb’s law for free space, 204;Qq F r=(c) Define relative permittivity;(d) Use the equation0 r=to solve related problems.13.2 Electric field 3 Candidates should be able to:(a) Explain electric field;(b) Sketch the field pattern for an isolated point charge, anelectric dipole and a uniformly charged surface;(c) Define electric field strength;(d) Use the formula;FEq=(e) Describe the motion of a point charge in a uniform electric field.13.3 Gauss’s law 3 Candidates should be able to:(a) Define electric flux as Φ = • E A;(b) State Gauss’s law;(c) Apply Gauss’s law to determine electric flux;
23TopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical(d) Use Gauss’s law to derive the electric field strength for an isolated point charge, anisolated charged conducting sphere and a uniformly charged conducting plate.13.4 Electric potential4 Candidates should be able to:(a) Define electric potential; (b) Use the formula 04QV r=for a point charge;(c) Describe and sketch equipotential surfaces;(d) State the relationship between electric field strength and electricpotential;(e) Use the relationship of dd;VEr= −(f) Define electric potential energy;(g) Use the formula of potentialenergy, U = qV.14 Capacitors 13 314.1 Parallel plate capacitors2 Candidates should be able to:(a) Define capacitance;(b) Use the formula of capacitance, ;QCV=(c) Describe the mechanism of charging a parallel plate capacitor;
24TopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical(d) Derive and use the formula 00ACd=for a parallel plate capacitor.14.2 Dielectrics 3 Candidates should be able to:(a) Define dielectric constant, 0;rCC =(b) Explain the effect of a dielectric in a parallel plate capacitor;(c) Solve problems using the formula .ACd=14.3 Capacitors in series and inparallel2 Candidates should be able to:(a) Derive and use the formulae for effective capacitance of capacitors in series and in parallel.14.4 Energy stored in a charged capacitor1 Candidates should be able to:(a) Solve problems using the formulae 2121,2QU QV UC= =1 22and U CV = .Derivations are not required14.5 Charging and discharging of a capacitorthrough a resistor5 3 Candidates should be able to:(a) Explain the charging processof a capacitor through a resistor;and
25TopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical(b) Derive the formulae and sketch the graphs for 01 ,tQ Q e RC −= − 01tV V e RC −= − and 0tRC I I e−=for charging a capacitor through a resistor;(c) Explain the discharging process of a capacitor through a resistor;(d) Derive the formulae and sketch the graphs for 0tQ Q e RC−= , 0tV V e RC−=and0tRC I I e−=for discharging a capacitor through a resistor;(e) Define the time constant;(f) Use the formula = RC;(g) Solve problems involving charging and discharging ofa capacitor through a resistor.15 Electric Current 1115.1 Conduction of electricity2 Candidates should be able to:(a) Define electric current;(b) Solve problems using the equation dd;QIt=(c) Identify the different type of charge carriers in metals andsemiconductors;
26TopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical(d) Explain qualitatively the mechanism of conduction of electricity in metals.15.2 Drift velocity 3 Candidates should be able to:(a) Explain drift velocity;(b) Derive and solve problems using the equation I = Anev.15.3 Current density1 Candidates should be able to:(a) Define electric current density;(b) Solve problems using the relationship of J nev =.15.4 Electrical conductivity and resistivity5 Candidates should be able to:(a) Define electrical conductivity;(b) Use the formulaJ E = ;(c) Define resistivity;(d) Use the formula;RAl =(e) Show the equivalence between Ohm’s law and the relationship of J E = ;(f) Derive and use the equation 2;ne tm =(g) State the relationship between resistivity and conductivity;(h) Explain the dependence ofresistivity on temperature for metals by using the equation2;ne tm =
27TopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical(i) Define superconductivity;(j) State the effects of temperature on the resistivities of superconductor and semiconductor.Mechanism is not required.16 Direct Current Circuits14 316.1 Electromotive force,potential difference and internal resistanceCandidates should be able to:2 (a) Define electromotive force, e.m.f.; (b) Define potential difference;(c) Describe the difference between e.m.f. and potentialdifference;(d) Explain the effects of internal resistance on the terminal potential difference of a battery in a circuit.16.2 Kirchhoff’s laws4 Candidates should be able to:(a) State Kirchhoff’s laws;(b) Apply Kirchhoff’s laws in solving problems.16.3 Potential divider3 Candidates should be able to:(a) Explain a potential divider as a source of variable voltage; (b) Explain the uses of shunts and multipliers;(c) Solve problems involving shunts;(d) Solve problems involving multipliers.
28TopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical16.4 Potentiometer and Wheatstone bridge5 3 Candidates should be able to:(a) Explain the working principles of a potentiometerand its applications;(b) Explain the working principles of a Wheatstone bridge and its applications;(c) Solve problems involving potentiometer and Wheatstone bridge.17 Magnetic Fields 21 317.1 Magnetic field1 Candidates should be able to:(a) Explain magnetic field as a field of force produced by current-carrying conductors or by permanent magnets.17.2 Force on a movingcharge4 Candidates should be able to:(a) Explain the force on a moving charge in uniformmagnetic field;(b) Use the formula F v B = q ;(c) Define magnetic flux density, B, using the equation F qvB = sin;(d) Explain the motion of a charged particle parallel to a uniform magnetic field;(e) Explain the motion of a charged particle perpendicular to a uniform magnetic field.
29TopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical17.3 Force on a currentcarryingconductor4 Candidates should be able to:(a) Explain the existence of magnetic force on a longstraight current-carrying conductor placed in a uniform magnetic field;(b) Derive and use the equation F IlB = sin . 17.4 Magnetic fields due to currents3 3 Candidates should be able to:(a) State Ampere’s law;(b) Apply Ampere’s law to derive the magnetic field of a long straight wire,02π;IBr=(c) Use the formulae rNIB2 0=for a circular coil, B nI = 0for a solenoid and rIB2π 0=for a long straight wire to solve problems.17.5 Forcebetween two currentcarryingconductors3 Candidates should be able to:(a) Derive and use the formula dμ I I lF2π0 1 2=for the force between two parallel currentcarrying conductors.17.6 Determinationof the ratio me3 Candidates should be able to:(a) Explain the motion of electrons in the presence of both magnetic and electric fields;For v, B and Eperpendicular to each other
30TopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical(b) Explain the principle involved in determining the ratiomefor electron in Thomson’s experiment.(c) Derive and use the equationB rEme2=in Thomson’s experiment.17.7 Hall effect 3 Candidates should be able to:(a) Explain Hall effect;(b) Derive and use the formulaHBI Vnet=for Hall voltage;(c) State the applications of Hall effect.18 Electromagnetic Induction18 318.1 Magnetic flux 2 Candidates should be able to:(a) Define magnetic flux;(b) Use the formula of magneticflux, Φ = • B A;18.2 Faraday’s law and Lenz’s law6 3 Candidates should be able to:(a) State Faraday’s law and Lenz’s law;(b) Apply Faraday’s law and Lenz’s law, ;dNdt= −(c) Derive and use the equation = B v sinfor induced e.m.f. in linear conductors in uniform magnetic fields;
31TopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical(d) Derive and use the equation = NBA t sinfor induced e.m.f. in plane coils in uniform magnetic fields.18.3 Self induction 5 Candidates should be able to:(a) Explain the phenomenon of self-induction;(b) Define self-inductance;(c) Use the formulaeddILt = −andLI N = Φ;(d) Derive and use the equation for the self-inductance of a solenoid,20.N ALl=18.4 Energy stored in an inductor1 Candidates should be able to:(a) Explain the energy stored in an inductor;(b) Use the formula for energy stored in an inductor,1 22U LI = .18.5 Mutual induction4 Candidates should be able to:(a) Explain the phenomenon of mutual induction;(b) Define mutual inductance;(c) Use the formulaepsddIMt = −andp s s MI N= Φ ;
32TopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical(d) Derive and use theexpression for the mutualinductance between two coaxial solenoids,0 p sp.N N AMl=19 Alternating Current Circuits 16 319.1 Alternating current through a resistor3 Candidates should be able to:(a) Explain r.m.s. value of an alternating current;(b) Calculate r.m.s. value for the sinusoidal case only;(c) Derive an expression for the current from a sinusoidal voltage; (d) Explain the phase difference between the current and voltage for a pure resistor;Includes thephasor diagram (e) Derive and use the formula for the power in an alternating current circuit which consists only of a pureresistor.19.2 Alternating current through an inductor4 Candidates should be able to:(a) Derive an expression for the current from a sinusoidal voltage;(b) Explain the phase differencebetween the current and voltage for an ideal inductor;Includes thephasor diagram (c) Define the reactance of anideal inductor;(d) Derive and use the formula; X L L=
33TopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical(e) Derive and use the formula for the power in an alternating current circuit which consists only of anideal inductor.19.3 Alternating currentthrougha capacitor4 Candidates should be able to:(a) Derive an expression for the current from a sinusoidal voltage; (b) Explain the phase difference between the current and voltage for an ideal capacitor;Includes thephasor diagram (c) Define the reactance of anideal capacitor;(d) Derive and use the formula 1; XCC=(e) Derive and use the formula for the power in an alternating current circuit which consists only of anideal capacitor.19.4 R-C, R-Land R-L-Ccircuits in series5 3 Candidates should be able to:(a) Define impedance, Z;(b) Use the formula 2 2 ( ) ; Z R X X = + −L C(c) Sketch the phasor diagrams of R-C, R-L and R-L-Ccircuits;(d) Explain resonance in R-L-Ccircuit;(e) State the condition for resonance to occur in R-L-C circuit;
34TopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical(f) Derive and use the resonance frequency, 012f . LC=Total 105 15
35Semester 3THIRD SEMESTER: OSCILLATIONS AND WAVES, OPTICS AND MODERN PHYSICSTopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical20 Oscillations 11 320.1 Simple harmonicmotion3 3 Candidates should be able to:(a) Define simple harmonic motion;(b) Explain simple harmonic motion;Knowledge ofx A t = sinor x A t = cosare solutions of 2a x = −is required.(c) Derive and use the formula2 2 v A x = − ;(d) Describe the variation in displacement, velocity and acceleration with time using graphs;(e) Describe the variation in velocity and accelerationwith displacement using graphs.20.2 Energy in simple harmonic motion3 Candidates should be able to:(a) Derive and use the expressions,1 2 2 2 ( )2K m A x = − and 1 2 22U m x = , for kinetic energy and potential energyrespectively;(b) Describe the variation in kinetic energy and potential energy with time and displacement using graphs.
36TopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical20.3 Systems in simple harmonicmotion3 Candidates should be able to:(a) Derive and use the expressions, 2mTk= and 2lTg= , for the period of oscillations for spring-mass and simple pendulum systems respectively.20.4 Damped oscillations1 Candidates should be able to:(a) Explain the changes in amplitude and energy for a damped oscillating system;(b) Explain under damping, critical damping and over damping.20.5 Forced oscillations and resonance 1 Candidates should be able to:(a) Explain free and forced oscillations;(b) Explain resonance in forced oscillation;(c) State the condition for resonance to occur.21 Wave Motion 1321.1 Progressive waves3 Candidates should be able to:(a) Define progressive wave; Prior knowledge of longitudinal wave andtransverse wave is required.(b) Explain progressive wave using y = A sin (t ± kx) ory = A cos (t ± kx);
37TopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical(c) Sketch and interpret the displacement-time graph and the displacement-distance graph;(d) Derive and use the formula2;xkxλ = =(e) Derive and use the relationship of v f = ;(f) Use the progressive wave equations y = A sin (t ± kx) or y = A cos (t ± kx).21.2 Waveintensity2 Candidates should be able to:(a) Define intensity of a wave; (b) State the relationship between intensity and amplitude;(c) Use the relationship 2I A ;(d) Explain the variation of intensity with distance froma point source in space.21.3 Principle of superposition3 Candidates should be able to:(a) State the principle of superposition;(b) Apply the principle of superposition, y = y1 + y2.21.4 Standing waves3 Candidates should be able to:(a) Explain the formation of standing waves;(b) Derive and interpret thestanding wave equation;
38TopicPeriodLearning Outcome NotesTheory Practical(c) Solve problems using the standing wave equation;(d) Distinguish between progressive and standing waves.21.5 Electromagnetic waves2 Candidates should be able to:(a) Explain that electromagnetic waves are made up of electrical vibrations, E = E0 sin (t − kx) andmagnetic vibrations, B = B0 sin (t − kx); (b) State the characteristics of electromagnetic waves;(c) Distinguish between electromagnetic and mechanical waves;(d) State the significance of the formula 0 01c ; =(e) State the order of magnitudeof wavelengths and frequencies for different types of electromagnetic radiation.22 Sound Waves 13 322.1 Propagation of sound waves2 Candidates should be able to:(a) Explain the propagation of sound waves in air in terms of displacement,0y y t kx = sin ( ) and pressure variation, 0sin ;2p p t kx =