Grade 10 Physics
UNIT 1.0
MEASUREMENTS
General Outcomes:
• Develop an understanding of measurements
• Develop investigative skills
Key competences
•
Demonstrate ability to measure length, time, mass, weight and volume
•
Show skills and knowledge to calculate density, speed, velocity, acceleration and force
•
Demonstrate ability to use different sources of energy
•
Demonstrate ability to use simple machines to do work
TOPIC
SUBTOPIC
SPECIFIC OUTCOMES
CONTENT
KNOWLEDGE
SKILLS
10.1
10.1.1
10.1.1.1 Identify basic units and • E.g.metre(m),
• Comparison
Measurements
International
derived units.
kilogram(Kg), seconds(S) • Computing
System of Units 10.1.1.2 Recognise prefixes,
,Kelvin(K)
• Identification
(SI).
multiples and
• Prefixes, multiples and
submultiples of
submultiples of basic and
fundamental and derived
derived units
units.
• Scientific notation and
10.1.1.3 Use scientific notation
significant figures
and significant figures.
10.1.2.1 Demonstrate the use of rules • Distance between two points • Demonstration
10.1.2 Length
to determine length
• E.g.vernier calipers,
and time
• Comparison
10.1.2.2 Demonstrate the use of a
micrometer screw gauge
• Identification
mechanical method for the
measurement of a small
distance
10.1.2.3 Demonstrate the use of
clocks and devices for
measuring an interval of
time
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 VALUES
• Appreciation
• Team work
• Problem solving
• Curiosity
• Team work
• Problem solving
• Critical thinking
• E.g. time , the period of a
pendulum ( T = t/n)
• E.g. mass of the bob, length
Page 1 10.1.3 Mass and,
weight
10.1.2.4 Identify factors that affect
the period of a simple
pendulum
10.1.3.1 Distinguish between mass
and weight
10.1.3.2 Demonstrate how to
measure mass and weight
by using appropriate
balances
10.1.3.3Demonstrate how to
determine the centre of
mass of an object
10.1.3.4 Describe qualitatively the
effect of the position of
the centre of mass on the
stability of an object.
10.1.4 Volume
and
Density
10.1.4.1 Demonstrate how to
measure volume different
liquids and solids
10.1.4.2 Determine the density of a
liquid, a regularly and an
irregularly shaped solid
10.1.4.3 Demonstrate how to
calculate density using the
appropriate formula
10.1.4.4 Explain relative density
10.1.4.5 Demonstrate how to
calculate relative density
of air using the appropriate
formula
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 • E.g.units,measuring
instrument, quantity
• Triple beam balances and
spring balances
• Comparison
• Computation
• Accuracy
• Team work
• Application
• Curiosity
• Critical thinking
• Point of action for mass(use
of lamina)
• e.g. equilibrium(stable
,unstable and neutral)E
• Liquids and solids(regular
and irregular) including
floating objects
NB: regular solids use the
appropriate formula
(V = l x b x h)
• Density ( liquids, regularly
and irregularly shaped solids
using the formula,
ρ = m/v)
• Density = mass/volume
•
•
•
•
•
Demonstration
Comparison
Accuracy
Identification
Manipulation
• Curiosity
• Team work
• Appreciation
• Critical thinking
• Ratio without units
• Relative density of
air(relative density =density
of substance/density of air)
Page 2 UNIT 2.0
MECHANICS
General Outcomes:
• Demonstrate an understanding of mechanics
• Develop investigative skills
TOPIC
SUBTOPIC
SPECIFIC OUTCOMES
10.2 Mechanics
10.2.1 Speed,
velocity and
acceleration
10.2.1.1 Explain the terms
used in mechanics.
10.2.1.2 Demonstrate
interpretation of
graphical
representation of
distance-time,
displacement-time,
speed-time, velocitytime and
acceleration-time.
10.2.1.3 Identify motion from
the shape of a speedtime graph
10.2.1.4 Demonstrate the use
of equations of
uniformly accelerated
motion to solve
problems
10.2.1.5 Demonstrate the use
of graphs to solve
problems of motion.
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 CONTENT
SKILLS
KNOWLEDGE
• E.g. distance,
displacement, speed,
velocity, acceleration
• Distance-time,
displacement-time,
speed-time, velocitytime and accelerationtime.
•
•
•
•
VALUES
Comparison
Accuracy
Demonstration
Interpretation
• Appreciation
• Team work
• Critical thinking
• At rest, moving with
constant speed, moving
with constant
acceleration
• The equations of
uniformly
accelerated motion
(v = u + at,
s = (v + u)t/2,
s = ut + ½ at2
v2 = u2 + 2as)
• Motion graphs
Page 3 10.2.1.6
10.2.2 Scalars
and vectors.
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 Explain
consequences of
over speeding
10.2.1.7Demonstrate that the
acceleration of free
fall for a body near
the earth is constant.
10.2.1.8 Describe qualitatively
the motion of bodies
falling in a uniform
gravitational field
with and without air
resistance
10.2.2.1 Distinguish between
scalars and vectors.
• E.g. effect on the
reaction time, accidents
10.2.2.2 Demonstrate adding
of vectors to
determine a resultant
• Adding vectors using the
formula R= F1 +F2 and
R= F2-F1
10.2.2.3 Demonstrate how to
determine the
resultant of two
vectors graphically.
• Adding of vectors by
graphical methods
• Acceleration of free fall
for a body near the earth
is constant. (It is
approximately 10m/s2)
• Free fall and terminal
velocity
• Vectors ( weight, force,
acceleration, displacement,
velocity, moment)
Scalar (distance, mass ,
time, speed, length, area,
volume, temperature,
density, work, energy,
power)
• Demonstration
• Classification
• Interpretation
• Team work
• Appreciation
• Critical thinking
Page 4 10.2.3 Forces
10.2.3.1 Explain what force is. • “Pull” or “push”
10.2.3.2 Explain the effect of
forces on bodies.
10.2.3.3 Demonstrate mass
as a measure of
inertia.
• Demonstration
• Comparison
• Team work
• Appreciation
• Critical thinking
• Demonstration
• Comparison
• Team work
• Appreciation
• Critical thinking
• E.g. shape,size,direction.
• Resistance to change in
velocity (Newton’s 1st
law)
10.2.3.4 Demonstrate the
relationship between
• A constant force
force and acceleration
produces a constant
acceleration
10.2.3.5 Demonstrate the
• Acceleration is directly
relationship between
proportional to the force
mass and acceleration.
for a constant mass
10.2.3.6 Perform calculations • Using formula(force
=mass x acceleraton)
on force.
10.2.3.7 Demonstrate the
effect of force on a
spring.
• Hooke’s law (F α e)
including graphs.
• E.g. heat, wear and tear
10.2.3.8 Demonstrate the
effects of friction on
the motion of a body.
10.2.3.9 Describe qualitatively
• Centripetal force and
the motion in a
centrifugal force
curved path due to a
perpendicular force.
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 Page 5 10.2.4 Moment
of forces.
10.2.4.1 Describe the moment
of a force in terms of
its turning effects.
10.2.4.2 State the Principle of
moments.
10.2.4.3 Demonstrate the
verification of the
principle of moments.
10.2.4.4 Perform calculations
based on the principle
of moments.
10.2.4.5 Explain the
everyday application
of moments.
10.2.5.1
10.2.5 Work,
Energy and
Power.
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 Explain the
meaning of the
terms work, energy
and power.
10.2.5.2 Identify units of
measurement for
work, energy and
power
10.2.5.3 Calculate work
using the
appropriate formula
• Turning effects of a force
• Demonstration
• Comparison
• Curiosity
• Team work
• Appreciation
• Demonstration
• Comparison
• Team work
• Appreciation
• Critical thinking
• Identification
• Demonstration
• Comparison
• Curiosity
• Team work
• Appreciation
• Critical thinking
• Conservation
• In equilibrium, total anticlockwise moment = total
close moment
• Equilibrium of pivoted
object(clockwise and anticlose moments
• E.g. Distance,weight
• E.g. opening a door or
window, opening a bottle
with an opener, a see-saw,
turning a tap on,
tightening a nut with a
spanner
• Work(force moving
through a distance in
direction of force)
Energy(ability to work)
Power(rate of doing work)
• Work(joule),energy(joule)
and power (watt)
• Work = Force x
distance moved in the
Page 6 10.2.5.4
Identify different
types of energy
10.2.5.5 Explain
qualitatively and
quantitatively the
terms gravitational
potential and kinetic
energy.
10.2.5.6 Identify sources of
renewable and non
renewable energy.
10.2.5.7
line of action of the
force.(calculations on
work)
• E.g. mechanical (Kinetics
and gravitational potential
energy), energy, electrical
energy,
• Gravitational potential
(energy due to position)
Kinetic energy(energy
due to motion)
NB: Gravitational
potential energy(EP =
mgh)
and kinetic energy
(EK = 1/2mv2 )
• Renewable sources of
energy( solar, wind,
hydroelectric , geothermal,
bio-gas)
Non-renewable energy(
chemical/fuel, nuclear
energy )
Explain the effects
of the use of energy
sources on the
environment.
• E.g. pollution, land
10.2.5.8 Demonstrate
degradation
energy
transformation from
one form to another
10.2.5.9 Explain nuclear
• E.g. chemical
fusion and fission in
energy(Battery) to electric
terms of energy
energy(wire cable) to light
releasing processes
energy( bulb)
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 Page 7 10.2.6 Simple
machines
10.2.5.10 Describe the
conservation of
energy
10.2.5.11 Demonstrate the
solving of energy
problems using the
mass- energy
equation
10.2.5.12Demonstrate the
calculation of
efficiency of energy
conversion using
the appropriate
formula
10.2.5.13Demonstrate
calculation of
power using the
appropriate
formula
10.2.6.1 Describe a simple
machine
10.2.6.2
Identify different
types of simple
machines.
10.2.6.3
Describe the
distances moved by
the effort and the
load in a simple
machine.
10.2.6.4 Explain the terms:
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 • Fusion(releasing energy)
Fission(producing energy)
• Principle of conservation
of energy
• Using the formula
( E = mc2 )
• Using the formula
(Efficiency = energy
output/ energy input x
100%)
• Using the formula
( Power = work done/
time)
• Enables a large weight to
be overcome by a small
effort
• E.g. Levers, pulleys, and
gears
• Demonstration
• Comparison
• Identification
• Team Work
• Appreciation
• Creative
thinking
• Distance moved by effort
is greater than distance
moved by the load
• Mechanical advantage
(MA = Load/Effort)
Velocity Ratio
Page 8 Mechanical
advantage (MA),
Velocity Ratio
(VR) and
Efficiency.
10.2.7 Pressure
effort / distance moved by
load)
Efficiency( ; Efficiency =
(MA/VR) x 100%)
• E.g. inclined planes, gears,
10.2.6.5 Demonstrate
pulleys
calculations involving
simple machines
• Pressure(force/area)
10.2.7.1 Describe pressure
2
10.2.7.2 Describe how
pressure relate to
force and area using
appropriate
examples and
formula
10.2.7.3 Identify factors
affecting pressure in
liquids.
10.2.7.4 Describe the
transmission of
pressure in
hydraulic systems.
10.2.7.5 Demonstrate how
to calculate pressure
in liquids using the
appropriate formula
10.2.7.6 Explain the action
of a mercury
barometer.
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 (VR = distance moved by
Units(pascals,N/m
,millibars)
• Applications of pressure
(calculations using the
formula P = F/A)
• Demonstration
• Comparison
• Identification
• Team work
• Appreciation
• Application
• Critical thinking
• Depth/height and density
of the liquid
• E.g. hydraulic breaks,
hydraulic press and jack
• Use of the formula p =
ρgh to calculate pressure
in liquids
• E.g. Hazard in handling
mercury
• Measuring pressure
difference
Page 9 10.2.7.7
Explain the use of
a manometer
10.2.7.8 Explain principles
of upthrust and
floatation.
10. 2.7.9 Describe how up
thrust relate to
floatation in fluids.
• Principles of upthrust and
floatation (Pascal’s law)
• Upthrust and floatation in
fluids (Archimedes
principle)
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 Page 10 Grade 11
UNIT 3.0
THERMAL PHYSICS
General Outcomes:
• Demonstrate an understanding of thermal physics
• Develop investigative skills
Key competences
• Demonstrate ability to show how pressure varies with volume and temperature
• Show skills and knowledge on the construction of thermometers
• Demonstrate ability to show heat transfer in solids ,liquids ,and gases
• Demonstrate ability that sound requires a medium for transmission
TOPIC
SUBTOPIC
SPECIFIC OUTCOMES
CONTENT
KNOWLEDGE
SKILLS
11.3Thermal
• Comparison
11.3.1Simple
11.3.1.1 Explain the assumptions
• Structure of
physics
• Demonstration
kinetic theory of
of the kinetic theory
matter(solid ,liquid
• Observation
Matter.
,gases)
11.3.1.2 Describe qualitatively the • E.g.close,apart,loose
molecular model of matter.
VALUES
• Appreciation
• Team work
• Critical
thinking
11.3.1.3 Describe the arrangement
of particles in solids,
liquids and gases.
11.3.1.4 Explain changes of state in • Changes of state and
kinetic theory
terms of the kinetic theory
of matter.
• E.g.smoke,toxic gases,
11.3.1.5 Demonstrate the
oil spills
application of kinetic
theory to explain rates of
diffusion, Brownian
motion, evaporation and
cooling effect of
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 Page 11 evaporation.
11.3.2Measuremen
t of temperature
11.3.1.6Demonstrate the
application of the kinetic
theory to explain gas
pressure.
11.3.1.7Demonstrate the effect of
varying pressure on
volume of a gas leading to
Boyle’s law.
• Kinetic theory and gas
pressure( Boyle’s law)
11.3.2.1Describe temperature
11.3.2.2Describe qualitatively the
thermal expansion of
solids, liquids and gases.
• Temperature(measure
of degree of hotness)
• Thermal expansion of
matter
11.3.2.3Describe physical
properties of substances
which change with
temperature.
11.3.2.4Demonstrate the
construction of the
laboratory and clinical
thermometers.
11.3.2.5Describe suitability of
alcohol and mercury for
use in liquid-in-glass
thermometers.
11.3.2.6Describe the relationship
between the Celsius and
Kelvin scales.
11.3.2.7Describe the structure and
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 • Use of equation
(PV=a constant at
constant pressure)
•
•
•
•
Demonstration
Comparison
Observation
Accuracy
• Curiosity
• Team work
• Appreciation
• Safety
consciousness
• E.g. thermal, electrical
,resistance
• Clinical and laboratory
thermometers
(calibration of lower
and upper fixed points)
• Suitability of
thermometric liquids
• Celsius and Kelvin
Page 12 use of a thermocouple
thermometer.
11.3.2.8Demonstrate the
measurement of
temperature using an
appropriate thermometer.
scale
(0o c =0o k+ 273o k)
• Two different metals,
two junctions (For
recording rapid
changing
temperatures)
• E.g.clinical,laboratory
11.3.3.1Describe qualitatively the
• E.g.linear,area,
11.3.3Expansion of
thermal expansion of
volume.
solids, liquids and
solids, liquids and gases.
gases.
11.3.3.2 Explain the effects of
• Anomalous expansion
of water
expansion of water on
aquatic life.
• Comparing expansions
11.3.3.3Demonstrate that solids,
liquids and gases expand at
different rates.
11.3.3.4Demonstrate to determine
the boiling and melting
point of different
substances.
11.3.3.5Explain effects of pressure
on the melting and boiling
points.
•
Cooling and heating
curves(graphical
representation and
interpretation)
•
Melting
point(increase in
pressure lowers the
melting point)
•
•
•
•
Demonstration
Comparison
Observation
Computation
• Curiosity
• Team work
• Appreciation
• Problem
solving
Boiling
point(increased
pressure increases
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 Page 13 the boiling point)
11.3.3.6 Describe the relationship
between temperature and
volume of a gas
11.3.4Heat transfer
by
conduction,
convection
and
radiation.
11.3.3.7 Explain the Kelvin scale
from the relationship
between temperature and
volume.
11.3.3.8Demonstrate the use of the
ideal gas equation to solve
simple numerical
problems.
11.3.4.1 Explain methods of heat
transfer.
11.3.4.2 Use kinetic theory to
explain heat transfer.
11.3.4.3 Demonstrate heat
conduction in different
substances.
• Graphical extrpolation
• The ideal gas equation
(P1V1/T1=P2V2/T2 )
and numerical
problems.
• Conduction,
convection and
radiation
• Relationship between
kinetic theory and heat
transfer
• E.g.pans,kettle,pots
11.3.4.5Demonstrate convection in
liquids and gases.
• Convection in fluids
• Demonstration
• comparison
• Observation
• Curiosity
• Team work
• Appreciation
• Demonstration
• Comparison
• Accuracy
• Team work
• Appreciation
• Application
• Critical
thinking
• Heat conduction in
different substances
11.3.4.4 Demonstrate the uses of
bad and good conductors
of heat.
11.3.4.6Demonstrate the
differences between good
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 • Charles law
V1/T1 = V2/T2
• Good and bad emitters
Page 14 and bad heat emitters.
11.3.5Measuremen
ts of heat.
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 of heat
11.3.4.7 Demonstrate the
differences between bad
and good absorbers of
radiant energy.
11.3.4.8Explain everyday
applications of convection
and radiation.
11.3.4.9 Describe the effect of
radiations
on
human
population.
11.3.5.1Demonstrate the different
between temperature and
heat energy.
11.3.5.2Describe the terms heat
capacity and specific heat
capacity.
• Good and bad
absorbers of heat
11.3.5.3Identify the SI units of
specific heat capacity.
11.3.5.4Demonstrate the measure
specific heat capacity of
solids and liquids.
11.3.5.5Discribe melting and
boiling points of
substances.
• Joules per kilogram
per Kelvin(J/kg K)
• E.g. .thermos flask,
electric kettle ,land
and sea breeze,green
house effect
• Global warming
and ozone depletion.
• Temperature(degree of
hotness)
Heat(energy)
• Demonstration
• comparison
• Team work
• Critical
thinking
• Demonstration
• Comparison
• Team work
• Appreciation
• Critical
• Heat capacity(heat
to raise temperature
by 1o C )
Specific heat
capacity(quantity of
heat which raises
the temperature of
unit mass by 1o C.)
• Electrical method and
methods of mixture
• Melting
point(temperature at
which the substance
Page 15 changes from solid to
liquid state)
Boiling
point(temperature at
which the particles of
the substance gains
more energy to move
vigorously)
11.3.5.6Demonstrate effects of
impurities on the melting
and boiling points of
substances.
11.3.5.7Describe the terms latent
heat, specific latent heat of
fusion and of vaporisation.
11.3.5.8Demonstrate the solving of
numerical problems on
heat measurements
thinking
• Impurities lower the
melting point while
increase the boiling
point of a substance
• E.g.Latent heat(energy
needed to overcome
forces between
molecules),specific
latent heat of fusion
(melting)
• Numerical problem on
heat measurement
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 Page 16 UNIT 4.0 Wave motion
General Outcomes:
• Demonstrate an understanding of wave motion
• Develop investigative skills
TOPIC
SUBTOPIC
SPECIFIC OUTCOMES
11.4 Wave
motion
11.4.1 Simple
ideas of the
wave
motion
theory.
11.4.1.1 Explain what is meant by
wave motion.
11.4.1.2 Describe longitudinal and
transverse waves.
CONTENT
SKILLS
KNOWLEDGE
11.4.1.3Describe the terms
associated with waves
11.4.1.4Demonstrate the use of the
velocity formula in
solving wave motion
problems
11.4.1.5 Explain the use of waves
in everyday life.
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 • E.g. vibrations(ropes,
Springs)
• Transverse(water
and light waves)
Longitudinal(sound)
• Amplitude (A),
• Comparison
• Demonstration
• Constructing
VALUES
• Appreciation
• Team work
• Creative
thinking
frequency (f),
wavelength (λ) and
wave front
• Displacement-time
and displacement –
distance graphs of a
wave. (Use the
equation v = fλ.)
• E.g. radio,
television, hospital
(Longitudinal and
Transverse)
Page 17 11.4.2Propagation,
transmission
and
diffraction
of waves.
11.4.3Superpositio
n and
interference
of waves
11.4.4Electromagn
etic
spectrum
11.4.2.1 Demonstrate propagation,
reflection and refraction
of waves.
11.4.2.2 Demonstrate diffraction of
waves.
• Propagation,
reflection and
refraction of waves.
• E.g. wide, narrow
gaps , sharp edges.
• Demonstration
• Comparison
• Observation
• Curiosity
• Team work
• Appreciation
11.4.3.1Demostrate constructive
and destructive
interference of waves.
11.4.3.2 Demonstrate the wave
nature of light.
• Constructive and
destructive
interference of
waves.
• Light travels as
waves.
• Demonstration
• Comparison
• Observation
• Curiosity
• Team work
• Appreciation
• Gamma, X-rays,
• Demonstration
• Comparison
• Interpretation
• Awareness
• Team work
• Appreciation
11.4.4.1Describe main components
of electromagnetic
radiation spectrum.
11.3.4.2Describe the properties
electromagnetic spectrum
ultra violet, visible
light, infrared,
microwaves and
radio waves
•
E.g.Speed,nature,
speed in v acuum
(approximately,
c = 3.0 x 108m/s)
11.4.4.3Identify the sources of each • E.g. sun
radioactive
of the rays in the
materials
electromagnetic radiation
spectrum.
• E.g. .Geiger-müllier
11.4.4.4 Describe the method of
tube, photographic
detection of each of the
film
following: Gamma, Xrays, infrared, ultra violet
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 Page 18 and radio waves.
11.4.4.5 Explain the use of each of • E.g.X-rays(hospital)
,gamma(welding)
the waves in the
,radio waves(radio
electromagnetic radiation
and TV)
spectrum.
•
E.g.
skin cancer
11.4.4.6 Explain the harmful
effects of ultra violet
radiation, gamma rays and
x-rays to life.
UNIT 5.0 SOUND
General Outcomes:
• Demonstrate an understanding of sound
• Develop investigative skills
TOPIC
SUBTOPIC
SPECIFIC OUTCOMES
CONTENT
SKILLS
KNOWLEDGE
11.5 Sound
11.5.1 Properties
of sound
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 11.5.1.1 Explain how sound is
produced.
11.5.1.2 Describe rarefactions and
compressions.
11.5.1.3 Describe the approximate
range of audible
frequencies.
11.5.1.4 Demonstrate that sound
requires a material medium
for transmission.
11.5.1.5 Describe a simple method
of determining the speed of
sound in air.
• Vibrating sources.
• Comparison
• Observation
• Demonstration
• Rarefactions and
compressions
• Range of audible
sound frequencies
(20Hz to 20000Hz)
VALUES
• Awareness
• Team work
• Safety
consciousness
• E.g. air ,wires, water
• Speed of sound in air
(speed=340m/s)
Page 19 11.5.1.6 Describe the relative speed
of sound in solid, liquid
and gas.
11.5.1.7 Demonstrate relationship
of the loudness of sound
waves to amplitude and
the pitch to the frequency.
11.5.1.8 Describe the factors which
influence the quality of
sound.
11.5.1.9 Describe ultra sound
11.5.1.10 Describe the uses of ultra
sound.
11.5.1.11 Describe sound pollution
and measures to
minimise it.
• Respective speeds of
sound in solids, liquids
and gases
• Loudness of sound
and its amplitude
Pitch of sound and its
frequency
• Pitch, loudness and
tone
• Sounds above human
hearing range
• E.g. cleaning, quality
control, pre-natal
scanning
• E.g. noise(sound proof
materials)
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 Page 20 UNIT6.0 Light
General Outcomes:
• Demonstrate an understanding of Light
• Develop investigative skills
TOPIC
SUBTOPIC
SPECIFIC OUTCOMES
CONTENT
SKILLS
KNOWLEDGE
11.6Light
11.6.1
Rectilinear
propagation
of light.
11.6.1.1Describe the rectilinear
propagation of light.
11.6.1.2Demonstrate the formation
of shadows and eclipse.
11.6.1.3Describe reflection of light
as being regular and diffuse.
11.6.1.4 Demonstrate reflection of
light
11.6.1.5Demonstrate the verification
of the laws of reflection.
11.6.1.6 Demonstrate the formation
of images by plane mirrors.
11.6.1.7 Demonstrate the position of
an image by construction.
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 • Light travels in
straight line
• Formation of shadows
and eclipses
• Reflection of light on
smooth and rough
surfaces
•
•
•
•
Demonstration
Observation
Construction
Comparison
VALUES
• Appreciation
• Team work
• Curiosity
• Critical
thinking
• Investigating
reflection(incident,
reflected normal and
plane mirror)
• The two rays and the
normal line are all in
the same plane
The angle of
incidence= the angle
of reflection
• Image in a plane
mirror (virtual,
laterally inverted
,position)
• Ray diagrams and
calculations
Page 21 11.6.2Refraction
of light
11.6.2.1 Describe refraction of light.
11.6.2.2 Demonstrate the refraction
of light
11.6.2.3 Demonstrate laws of
refraction of light.
11.6.2.4 Demonstrate the passage of
light through parallel-sided
transparent material.
11.6.2.5 Describe refractive index.
11.6.2.6 Demonstrate the refractive
index of a glass block.
11.6.2.7Demonstrate refractive index
(n) in terms of real and
apparent depth.
11.6.2.8 Explain the term ‘critical
angle’.
11.6.2.9 Describe the relationship of
critical angle to refractive
index.
11.6.2.10 Explain how total internal
reflection occurs.
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 • Bending effect of light
• Trace the path through
a rectangular glass
block(incidence,
refracted ,normal and
emergent ray)
• The ratio sin i/sin r is
a constant value
The incident ray ,the
normal, and the
reflected ray all lie in
the same plane
• Refraction of
light(two parallel
blocks)
• Demonstration
• Construction
• Observation
• Team work
• Critical
thinking
• Appreciation
• Measure of bending of
light
• Graphical
representation(n= 1.5)
Refractive index of
a substance = real
depth/apparent
depth
• Angle of incidence
when angle of
refraction is 90o
•
• n = sin 90o/ sin c
• Angle of incidence
greater than critical
Page 22 11.6.2.11 Explain how total internal
reflection is used.
11.6.3Thin
convergin
g and
diverging
lenses.
11.6.3.1 Describe different types of
lenses.
11.6.3.2 Explain the action of lenses
on beams of light.
11.6.3.3Demonstrate how to
determine the focal point,
focal length, optical centre
and principal axis.
11.6.3.4 Demonstrate how to
determine the power of a
converging lens.
11.6.3.5 Demonstrate how to obtain
the position, size and nature
of images formed by
converging lenses.
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 angle application
• E.g. Sparkle of
diamond(internal
reflection)
• Convex and concave • Demonstration
• Convex and
concave(action of
lenses on a beam of
light)
• Focal point, focal
length,optical centre
and principal axis
NB: use of formula
( 1/f = 1/u + 1/v)
• Magnification of a
convex lens
• Observation
• comparison
• Problem solving
• Curiosity
• Team work
• Appreciation
• Critical
thinking
• Ray diagrams
formed a thin
convex lens
(real, upside down,
magnified,
diminished)
Page 23 11.6.4
Dispersion of
light.
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 11.6.4.1 Demonstrate the action of a
triangular prism on white
light.
11.6.4.2 Describe the nature of
monochromatic light.
11.6.4.3Demonstrate the formation
of coloured light.
11.6.4.4 Describe the appearance of
coloured objects in coloured
light.
• Investigation of
white.(dispersion of
light)
• Light of one colour
or wave length
• The formation of
coloured light.
• Coloured objects
• Demonstration
• Comparing and
contrasting
• Observation
• Analysis
• Curiosity
• Team work
• Appreciation
Page 24 UNIT 7.0 Magnetism
General Outcomes:
• Demonstrate an understanding of magnetism
• Develop investigative skills
TOPIC
SUBTOPIC
SPECIFIC OUTCOMES
11.7 Magnetism
11.7.1 Simple
phenomenon
of
magnetism.
11.7.1.1 Demonstrate the
properties of magnets.
11.7.1.2 Distinguish between
magnetic and nonmagnetic materials.
11.7.1.3 Demonstrate induced
magnetism.
11.7.1.4 Demonstrate the
making of a magnet
11.7.1.5 Demonstrate the way
to destroy a magnet
11.7.1.6 Demonstrate the
plotting of magnetic
field lines.
11.7.1.7 Distinguish the
magnetic properties of
iron and steel.
11.7.1.8 Explain the use of
magnetic screening
and magnetic keepers.
11.7.1.9 Describe the uses of
magnets.
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 CONTENT
SKILLS
KNOWLEDGE
• E.g. magnetic
field,poles,attraction
• Magnetic(iron, steel) and
non-magnetic(copper, brass)
materials.
•
•
•
•
•
VALUES
Comparison
Demonstration
Observation
Identification
Problem solving
• Appreciation
• Team work
• Creative thinking
Transfer of magnetic
properties with out contact
• Magnetisation
(stroking and electrical
methods)
• Demagnetisation
(hammering
,electrical.)
• Plotting of magnetic field
lines using a compass.
• Iron (soft) and steel(hard).
• Magnetic
screening(shielding
equipment) and magnetic
keepers.
• E.g. circuit breakers,
speakers ,electromagnets
•
Page 25 Grade 12
UNIT 8.0 STATIC ELECTRICITY
General Outcomes:
• Demonstrate an understanding about Static electricity
• Develop investigative skills
Key competences
• Demonstrate ability to measure current and voltage
• Show skills and knowledge to dispose cells and battery
• Demonstrate ability to save electricity
• Demonstrate ability to cost use of electricity
TOPIC
SUBTOPIC
SPECIFIC OUTCOMES
12.8 Static
electricity
12.8.1 Static
Electricity.
12.8.1.1 Demonstrate the
existence of static charges
12.8.1.2 Demonstrate detection,
interaction and nature of
electric charges.
12.8.1.3 Describe the
characteristics and uses of
static charges
.
12.8.1.4 Describe the electric
charging and discharging
of objects.
12.8.1.5 Explain the relationship
between current and static
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 KNOWLEDGE
• Positive and
negative (Law of
electrostatics.)
• Golden-leaf
electroscpe.
• Characteristics
(Negative and
positive) and
Uses
(precipitors,injet
printers,
Photocopiers).
• Electric charging
and discharging of
objects.( nylon)
• Relationship
between current and
static electricity.
CONTENT
SKILLS
• Comparison
• Demonstration
• Problem solving
VALUES
• Appreciation
• Team work
• Critical
thinking
Page 26 electricity.
12.8.1.6 Explain how a capacitor
works.
12.8.1.7 Describe the role of
capacitors in electronic
equipments.
12.8.1.8 Describe effects of static
charges on the
environment.
• capacitance.
• Store charge in
equipments.
• E.g. lightning
arrester(sharp
points).nitrification
of soil
UNIT 9.0 CURRENT ELECTRICITY
General Outcomes:
• Demonstrate an understanding of Current Electricity
• Develop investigative skills
TOPIC
SUBTOPIC
SPECIFIC OUTCOMES
12.9 Current
electricity
12.9.1Electric
12.9.1.1 Describe the terms
charge,
associated with electricity
current, and
potential
12.9.1.2Identify the units of
difference.
electric charge and electric
current.
12.9.1.3Demonstrate the measure
of electric current.
12.9.1.4 Describe potential
difference.
12.9.1.5 Describe the volt.
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 KNOWLEDGE
• Electric charge, the
volt, potential
difference and
electric current
• Coulombs and
ampere
( numerical
problems using
I =Q/t)
• Coulombs and
amperes
• Recording electric
current(ammeter)
• Potential
CONTENT
SKILLS
• Comparison
• Demonstration
• Identification
VALUES
• Appreciation
• Team work
• Safety
consciousness
• Critical
thinking
Page 27 12.9.1.6 Differentiate between
potential difference (p.d)
and electromotive force
(emf).
12.9.1.7 Describe the concept that
the e.m.f. is measured by
the energy dissipated by a
current in driving charge
round the circuit
12.9.1.8 Demonstrate the
measuring of potential
difference and e.m.f.
12.9.2 Electric
cells.
12.9.2.1 Describe the structure of
primary and secondary
cells.
12.9.2.2 Describe the working of
cells.
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 difference(electrical
difference in level)
and the
• Volt(joules per
coulomb)
• Difference between
p.d and emf
• Wasted energy in a
circuit
• Recording of
voltage(voltmeter)
• Primary(cells, dry
12.9.2.3 Demonstrate charging and
discharging of the
accumulator.
• Charging and
12.9.2.4 Identify methods of
disposal of used cells.
• Appropriate
• Demonstration
• Comparison
• Identification
cell, accumulator)
Secondary
cells(alkaline and
nickel-cadmium
cell)
• Operating of cells
• Curiosity
• Team work
• Appreciation
• Safety
consciousness
• Critical
thinking
discharging of the
accumulator.
methods of
disposing used cells.
Page 28 12.9.3 Electrical
resistance.
12.9.3.1 Explain the meaning of
the term resistance.
• Resistance(opposing
of charge)
12.9.3.2 Demonstrate relationship
between current and
potential difference in
metal conductors.
• Current varies with
12.9.3.3 Demonstrate to determine
resistance in a simple
circuit.
12.9.3.4 Describe the internal
resistance of a cell.
12.9.3.5 Demonstrate how to apply
Ohm’s law to calculations
involving series and
parallel circuits.
12.9.3.6 Describe relationship
between current and p.d.
in semi-conductor diodes.
12.9.4 Heating
effect of an
electric
current.
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 12.9.4.1 Demonstrate energy
transformations in an
electric circuit.
12.9.4.2 Demonstrate the heating
effect of an electric
• Demonstration
• Communication
• Comparison
• Curiosity
• Team work
• Appreciation
pd(Ohm’s law)
(Graph of p.d
against current for
Ohmic and nonOhmic conductors)
• Value of resistance
in a simple
circuit(ammeter,volt
meter and equation
R=V/I).
• Internal resistance of
a cell.
• Application of
ohm’s law to
calculations
involving series and
parallel circuits.
( R = V/I)
• Graphical
representations of the
relationship between
current and voltage for
(Ohmic and nonOhmic conductors)
• Demonstration
• Change of energy
form one form to the • Comparison
• Calculation
other.
• Practical
• Curiosity
• Team work
• Appreciation
• Safety
consciousness
Page 29 current.
12.9.4.3 Demonstrate how to
calculate electrical
energy.
12.9.4.4 Describe the relationship
of volt, ampere and watt.
12.9.4.5 Demonstrate how to
calculate the cost of
using electrical Energy.
12.9.4.6 Describe the use of
switches, fuses, earthing
and the three pin-plugs.
12.9.4.7 Explain the need for
earthing metal cases and
for double
insulation.
12.9.4.8Describe the three wires
found in the cable
12.9.4.9 Demonstrate the sketch
the domestic electrical
wiring system.
12.9.4.10 Describe ways of
conserving electric
energy in homes and
industry.
12.9.5 Magnetic
effects of electric
currents.
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 12.9.5.1 Demonstrate magnetic
field patterns of electric
currents.
12.9.5.2 Describe the applications
of the magnetic effect of
applications of the
heating effect of an
electric current.
• Calculations of
electrical energy.
( E= VIt etc)
• Power=voltage x
current(P=VI)
• Cost of using
electrical
• Switches, fuses,
earthing and the
three pinplugs(function).
•
E.g. prevent electric
shocks, accidents
•
Live(red or brown),
earthing(green and
yellow) and
neutral(blue)
• Domestic electrical
wiring system.
• E.g. energy saving
bulbs, switch
• Magnetic field
patterns of electric
currents
• E.g. electric bells,
• Demonstration
• Comparison
• Curiosity
• Team wok
• Appreciation
• Safety
consciousness
Page 30 an electric current.
simple relay
12.9.5.3 Explain the behaviour of
telephone, relay
an electric current in a
switches.
magnetic field.
• E.g. wire carrying
12.9.5.4 Describe the application of
current or electron
a current placed in a
beam
magnetic field.
• E.g.d.c motors,
12.9.5.5 Describe the nature of
galvanometers,
forces between parallel
ammeter
currents.
• Attraction and
12.9.5.6 Describe the effect of
repulsion of forces
magnetic fields on human
between parallel
health and environment.
currents.
• E.g. hearing
impairment, radar
interference in
communication,
mutation disorder
12.9.6.1 Explain what an internal • The ignition of the
mixture of liquid fuel
12.9.6 The engine
combustion engine is.
and air, inside the
cylinder ( Petrol and
12.9.6.2 Identify the different
parts of an internal
combustion engine.
12.9.6.3 Describe the structure
and operation of the
spark plug.
12.9.6.4 Describe the different
strokes in a four stroke
internal combustion
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 diesel engine)
• E.g.valves,piston,
spark plug, cylinder
•
•
•
•
Demonstration
Comparison
Identification
Problem solving
• Team work
• Appreciation
• Critical
thinking
• Spark plug(produces
a spark).
• Intake, compression,
power and exhaust .
Page 31 engine.
12.9.6.5 Describe efficiency of a
diesel and petrol engine
•
Diesel engines are
more efficient than
petrol engines
UNIT 10.0 ELECTROMAGNETIC INDUCTION
General Outcomes:
• Demonstrate an understanding about electromagnetic induction
• Develop investigative skills
TOPIC
SUBTOPIC
SPECIFIC OUTCOMES
KNOWLEDGE
12.10
12.10.1 The
12.10.1.1 Demonstrate the
• Induced emf and
Electromagnetic
phenome
phenomenon of electrocurrent in a moving
induction
non of
magnetic induction.
wire
electroma 12.10.1.2 Describe the factors
• Factors (speed,
gnetic
affecting magnitude and
strength, length of
induction
direction of induced emf.
wire)
.
12.10.1.3 Demonstrate the
• Lenz and Faraday
direction of current
law
produced by an induced
e.m.f.
12.10.2 The
12.10.2.1 Describe simple a.c. and • a.c. and d.c.
simple
d.c. generators.
generators.
a.c. and
12.10.2.2 Compare the simple a.c.
• graph of induced
voltage against time
d.c.
generator with a practical
generators.
a.c. generator.
12.10.2.3 Determine the nature and
characteristics of current
output against time in an • Action of diodes
a.c. and d.c. generator.
12.10.2.4 Describe the action of a
diode in rectification.
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 CONTENT
SKILLS
VALUES
• Demonstration
• Comparison
• Identification
• Team work
• Appreciation
• Critical
thinking
• Demonstration
• Comparison
• Identification
• Curiosity
• Team work
• Appreciation
• Critical
thinking
Page 32 12.10.3
Transformers.
12.10.2.5 Explain conversion of an
a.c. generator to a d.c.
generator.
12.10.2.6 Contrast the current
produced by the d.c.
generator with that
produced from batteries.
12.10.3.1 Demonstrate the
principles of mutual
induction.
12.10.3.2 Describe the structure
and operation of iron
core transformers.
12.10.3.3 Demonstrate the of
numerical problems
involving
ideal transformers
• Conversion of a.c.
generator to d.c.
generator
• Current from d.c
and the batteries
• Step-up and step
down
transformers(Two
coils magnetically
linked.)
• Structure and
operation of iron
core transformers.
(step up and step
down transformers)
• using relations:
Vp = Np
Vs Ns
and
• Demonstration
• Observation
• Comparing
• Safety
consciousness
• Team work
• Appreciation
• Critical
thinking
V p Ip = V ѕ Iѕ .
12.10.3.4 Calculate the efficiency
of a transformer given
data.
• Calculating
efficiency
[ Efficiency =
(Vѕ Iѕ)/( Vp Ip) x
100%]
12.10.3.5 Describe the role of
• National grid and
transformers in
import of
transmission of electricity.
power(Changing
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 Page 33 voltage)
12.10.3.6 Explain advantages of
• Calculations on
high alternating p.d.
power losses in
power transmission.
cables.
12.10.3.7 Describe the implications • Environmental and
of underground power
cost implications of
transmission compared to
underground power
overhead lines.
transmission
12.10.3.8 Describe the effects of
• Effects of improper
improper management
management of
of transformers
Transformers
UNIT 11.0 BASIC ELECTRONICS
General Outcomes:
• Demonstrate an understanding of basic electronics
• Develop investigative skills
TOPIC
SUBTOPIC
SPECIFIC OUTCOMES
12.11 Basic
electronics
12.11.1
12.11.1.1 Describe thermionic
Thermionic
emission
emission
12.11.1.2 Describe properties of
and
electrons.
electrons.
12.11.1.3 Distinguish between
direction of flow of
electrons and flow of
conventional current.
12.11.1.4 Illustrate applications
of electron beams.
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 KNOWLEDGE
• Release of electrons
from a cathode(hot
metal)
• Deflection, electric
and magnetic fields.
CONTENT
SKILLS
• Comparison
• Demonstration
VALUES
• Appreciation
• Team work
• Problem
solving
• Electrons and
conventional
current(directions)
• E.g wave forms ,TV
Page 34 12.11.1.5 Describe basic
structure and action of
cathode-ray
oscilloscope.
12.11.1.6 Describe the uses of
cathode-ray
oscilloscope.
12.11.2 Circuit
components.
12.11.2.1 Identify symbols of
basic circuit
component.
12.11.2.2 Determine resistor
values using standard
colour codes.
12.11.2.3 Describe action of
variable potential
divider.
12.11.2.4 Explain the action and
application of
thermistor and light
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 • Basic structure
(electron gun, Yplates ,X-plates,
electron beam,
fluorescent screen)
Action (traces wave
forms and other
signals).
• E.g. measuring( pea
voltage,time,
frequency),TV,Xray tube
• Demonstration
• Comparison
• Problem solving
• Resistors,
potentiometers,
capacitor ,thermistor
,light dependentt
resistor, reed switch
and reed relay
• Curiosity
• Team work
• Awareness
• Standard colour
codes and values
• Action of variable
potential divider.
• Action and
application of
thermistor and light
dependent resistors.
Page 35 dependent resistors.
12.11.2.5 Describe the charging
and discharging of
capacitors.
•
Variable values of
capacitors at low
voltage
• Reed switch and
12.11.2.6 Explain how a reed
switch and reed relay
works.
12.11.3 Simple
electronic
systems.
12.11.2.7 Demonstrate
application
of
reed switch and reed
relay.
12.11.3.1 Describe the action of
a bipolar transistor.
• E.g. alarm bells,
starter
motor,telephone
12.11.3.2 Decsribe the action of
logic gates.
• AND, OR,NAND,
NOR AND NOT
12.11.3.3 Demonstrate how to
derive the truth tables
of logic gates.
12.11.3.4 Describe the use of
cross-coupled logic
gates.
12.11.3.5 Describe the use of a
bistable and astable
circuits.
• The truth tables of
logic gates.
12.11.3.6 Explain that bistable
circuits exhibit the
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 reed relay (through
contacts).
• Demonstration
• Identification
• Comparison
• Electronically
operated switch.
• Team work
• Appreciation
• Creative
thinking
• Critical
thinking
• the use of crosscoupled logic gates.
• A
bistable(computers)
and
astable(‘clock’in
computers)
• Storage of data in
binary code
Page 36 property of memory.
• Frequency of an
12.11.3.7 Relate qualitatively
astable circuit and
the frequency of an
the values of the
astable circuit to the
resistive and
values of the resistive
capacitative
and capacitative
component.
component.
• Demonstration
12.11.5.1 Describe the impact of • E.g. radio,
12.11.5 Impact of
common electronic
television ,telephone • Comparison
• Problem solving
electronic
devices and systems on
,computers,
s on
domestic and industrial
calculators ,robots
society
activities.
• e-junk (electronic
and
12.11.5.2 Describe e-junk and its
mail) and its impact
industry.
impact on the
on the environment
environment
• Team work
• Appreciation
• Safety
consciousness
UNIT 12.0 ATOMIC PHYSICS
General Outcomes:
• Demonstrate an understanding about atomic physics
• Develop investigative skills
TOPIC
SUBTOPIC
SPECIFIC OUTCOMES
12.12. Atomic
physics
12.12.1 Nuclear
atom
12.12.1.1Describe the structure of
the atom.
12.12.1.2 Describe the composition
of the nucleus in terms of
protons and neutrons.
12.12.1.3 Explain mass (Nucleon)
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 CONTENT
SKILLS
• Demonstration
• Comparison
KNOWLEDGE
• Atomic structure
(nucleus and
electrons)
• Nucleus (protons
and neutrons)
VALUES
• Team work
• Appreciation
• mass (Nucleon)
Page 37 number, A, and atomic
(proton), number, Z.
12.12.2
Radioactivity.
12.12.2.1 Describe the nature of
radioactivity.
12.12.2.2 Describe the
characteristics of the
three kinds of
radioactive radiations:
alpha, beta and gamma.
12.12.2.3 Describe methods of
detecting radioactive
emissions.
12.12.2.4 Explain the origin and
effects of background
radiations
12.12.2.5 Explain radioactive
decay and nuclear
reaction.
12.12.2.6 Demonstrate how to
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 number, A, and
atomic (proton),
number, Z.
• Nature of
radioactivity
(randomness and
spontaneity).
• Alpha (α), Beta (𝝱)
and Gamma (𝜸)
radiations (Refer to
penetration,
ionization,
deflection, charge,
relative mass and
nature of particles)
• Detecting
radioactive
emissions by G.M
tube, photographic
plate, scintillation
counter, bubble
chamber.
• Sources (cosmic
rays, radioactive
elements under
rocks.)
• Radioactive decay
and nuclear
reaction by alpha,
beta and gamma.
.
• Time taken for
• Classification
• Identification
• Observation
• Appreciation
• Awareness
• Team work
• Safety
consciousness
• Critical
thinking
Page 38 determine half life of a
radioactive material.
12.12.2.7 Explain uses of
radioactive substances.
12.12.2.8 Describe the safety
precautions necessary
when handling, using or
storing radioactive
substances.
12.12.2.9 Explain the effects of
radioactive substances
on the environment and
health.
decaying
(Decay curves)
• E.g. medical,
industrial,
agricultural
• E.g. safety glasses
,boots, overalls,safe
disposal (Safety
precautions)
• E.g. pollution and
health hazards
12.12.2.10 Investigate management • Appropriate
practices which
management safe
safeguard the
guard practices
environment from
radioactive
contamination.
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 Page 39 PRACTICAL PHYSICS
The importance of practical work in Physics cannot be over emphasized. Practical work develops manipulative skills in the
learner and gives the learner the opportunity to experiment the scientific method. Needless to mention practical Physics is
essential for this syllabus because:
a)
There is need to expose learners to practical applications of Physics.
b)
Learners should understand, interpret and apply scientific methods in a variety of ways including the theoretical
and practical approaches.
c)
The study of Physics should be linked with environmental education requirements by quoting local phenomena in
relation to Physics studies.
There are scientific processes and skills to which learners must be exposed. Examples of these are observing, experimenting,
classifying, measuring, estimating, calculating, predicting and problem solving. Learners should also be exposed to scientific
attitude like accuracy, curiosity and creativity.
KEY QUANTITIES, SYMBOLS AND UNITS IN PHYSICS.
The pages 38 – 41 comprise the symbols and units which may from time to time be used during the study of Physics.
The candidate is expected to have the knowledge of how to apply the symbols and units in physics.
The list is not exhaustive; therefore the teacher and the learner are expected to discover more as they go through this
course.
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 Page 40 LIST OF SUGGESTED APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT FOR THE SYLLABUS
1.0 Measurements and Mechanics
Venier callipers, micrometer screw gauges, measuring cylinders, metre rules, displacement cans, beakers, conical flasks, different
masses such as 50g, 100g, 200g, 1kg, ticker tape timers, pipettes, burettes, spring balances, beam balances, capillary tubes and pulleys.
2.0 Thermal physics
Mercury barometers, clinical and laboratory thermometer, six’s maximum and minimum thermometers, manometers, calorimeter,
thermos flasks, thermocouple thermometers and hypsometer.
3.0 Light
Plane mirrors, converging and diverging lenses, rectangular and triangular prisms, optical pins, colour discs, colour filters, optical
camera, light ray boxes, coloured bulbs, projectors such as slide projectors and film projectors.
4.0 Sound
Sonometers, turning forks, stop watches, stop clocks, sources of sound such as guitars and drums.
5.0 Magnetism
Bar magnets, horseshoe magnets, iron and steel bars, iron filings and plotting compasses.
6.0 Wave motion
Ripple tanks, springs and spiral springs, ropes and strings.
7.0 Electric current/static electricity
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 Page 41 Ammeters, voltmeters, rheostats, capacitors, connecting wires, lead-acid accumulators, dry cells, resistors, tapping keys, switches,
fuses, semi-conductors, semi-conductor diodes, electric bells, resistance wires, ebonite and polythene rods, three-pin-plugs, electric
bulbs, switch boards and gold leaf electroscopes.
8.0 Basic electronics
Cathode ray tubes, maltese cross tube, resistors, light dependant rays (LDRs), thermistors, diodes, capacitors, transistors, TV sets,
radios, electronics teaching kits and computers.
9.0 Nuclear physics
Geiger muller tube, time scales, rate metres, cloud chambers, bubble chamber alpha emitting radioactive sources and extra high
tension (EHT) power supply unit.
KEY QUANTITIES, SYMBOLS AND UNITS.
Quantity
Symbols
Unit
mass
length
time
electric current
thermodynamic temperature
amount of substance
distance
displacement
area
volume
density
m
l
t
I
T
n
d
s, x
A
V
ρ
kg
m
s
A
K
mol
m
m
m2
m3
kgm-3
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 Page 42 speed
velocity
acceleration
acceleration of free-fall
force
weight
u, v
u, v
a
g
F
W
ms-1
ms-1
ms-2
ms-2
N
N
momentum
work
energy
potential energy
kinetic energy
heat energy
change of internal-energy
power
pressure
torque
gravitational constant
period
frequency
wave length
speed of electromagnetic-waves
Avogadro constant number
Celsius temperature
half - life
decay constant
specific heat capacity
electromotive force
P
wW
E, U, W
Ep
Ek
Q
∆U
P
P
T
G
T
f
λ
c
NA
θ
t½
λ
c
E
Ns
J
J
J
J
J
J
W
Pa
Nm
Nkg-2ms2
s
Hz
m
ms-1
mol-1
o
C
s
s-1
JK-1KG-1
V
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 Page 43 resistance
resistivity
R
ρ
Ω
Ωm
DATA AND FORMULAE
speed of light in free space
elementary charge
the planck constant
molar gas constant
the Avogadro constant
gravitational constant
acceleration of free fall
the Boltzmann constant
C = 3.00 x 108 ms-1
e = 1.60 x 10-19_ 1 coulomb
h = 6.63 x 10-34 Js
R = 8.31 JK-1 mol-1
NA = 6.02 x 1023 mol-1
G = 6.67 x 10-11 Nm2kg2
g = 9.81 ms-2
k = 1.38 x 10-23 JK-1
uniformly accelerated motion
s = ut + ½ at2
or v2 = u2 + 2as
W = P∆V
Ep = mgh
work done on/by a gas
gravitational potential
refractive index
resistors in series
n = sin i
sin r
R = R1 + R2 + R3 + ..
resistors in parallel
1 = 1 + 1 + 1 + ...... +
R R1 R2 R3
electric potential
V = Q/4𝝅ɛ r
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 0
Page 44 capacitors in series
1=1 +1
C C1
C2
capacitors in parallel
pressure of an ideal gas
C = C1 + C2 + C3 +
P = 1 NMC3
3
V
X = xo sin wt
P = ρgh
w = ½QV
x = xo exp (-λt)
λ = 0.693
t½
alternating current/voltage
hydrostatic pressure
energy of charged capacitor
radio-active decay
decay constant
+ 1
C3
+ ....
Grade 10 – 12 Physics for Zambia: 5054 Page 45