Physics 1

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ng
PHYSICS
PREAMBLE
The syllabus is evolved from the Senior Secondary School teaching syllabus and is intended to
indicate the scope of the course for Physics examination.
It is structured with the conceptual approach. The broad concepts of matter, position, motion and
time; energy; waves; fields; Atomic and Nuclear Physics, electronics are considered and each
concept forms a part on which other sub-concepts are further based.
AIMS
The aims of the syllabus are to enable candidates
(1) acquire proper understanding of the basic principles and applications of
Physics;
(2) develop scientific skills and attitudes as pre-requisites for further scientific
activities;
(3) recognize the usefulness, and limitations of scientific method to appreciate
its applicability ion other disciplines and in every life;
(4) develop abilities, attitudes and skills that encourage efficient and safe
practice;
(5) develop scientific attitudes such as accuracy, precision, objectivity, integrity,
initiative and inventiveness.
ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES
The following activities appropriate to Physics will be tested:
(1) Acquisition of knowledge and understanding:
Candidates should be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of
(a) Scientific phenomena, facts laws, definitions, concepts and theories;
(b) Scientific vocabulary, terminology and conventions (including symbols, quantities
and units);
(c) The use of scientific apparatus, including techniques of operation and aspects of
safety;
(d) Scientific quantities and their determinations;
(e) Scientific and technological applications with their social economic and
environmental implications.
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WAEC Syllabus - Uploaded online by www.myschoolgist.com.ng
(2) Information Handling and Problem-solving
Candidates should be able, using visual, oral, aural and written (including symbolic,
diagrammatic, graphical and numerical) information to
(a) locate select, organize and present information from a variety of sources including
everyday experience;
(b) analyse and evaluate information and other data;
(c) use information to identify patterns, report trends and draw inferences;
(d) present reasonable explanations for natural occurrences, patterns and relationships;
(e) make predictions from data.
(3) Experimental and Problem-Solving Techniques
Candidates should be able to
(a) follow instructions;

(b) carry out experimental procedures using apparatus;
(c) make and record observations, measurements and estimates with due regard to
precision, accuracy and units;
(d) interpret, evaluate and report on observations and experimental data;
(e) identify problems, plan and carry out investigations, including the selection of
techniques, apparatus, measuring devices and materials;
(f) evaluate methods and suggest possible improvements;
(g) state and explain the necessary precautions taken in experiments to obtain
accurate results.
SCHEME OF EXAMINATION
There will be three papers, Papers 1, 2 and 3, all of which must be taken. Papers 1 and 2
will be a composite paper to be taken at one sitting.
PAPER 1: Will consist of fifty multiple choice questions lasting 1¼ hours and carrying
50 marks.
PAPER 2: Will consist of two sections, Sections A and B lasting1½ hours and carrying
60 marks.
Section A - Will comprise seven short-structured questions. Candidates
will be required to answer any five questions for a total of 15 marks.
Section B - Will comprise five essay questions out of which candidates
will be required to answer any three for 45 marks.
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PAPER 3: Will be a practical test for school candidates or an alternative to practical

work paper for private candidates. Each version of the paper will comprise
three questions out of which candidates will be required to answer any two
in 2¾ hours for 50 marks.
DETAILED SYLLABUS
It is important that candidates are involved in practical activities in covering this syllabus.
Candidates will be expected to answer questions on the topics set in the column headed ‘ TOPIC’.
The ‘NOTES’ are intended to indicate the scope of the questions which will be set but they are not
to be considered as an exhaustive list of limitations and illustrations.
NOTE: Questions will be set in S.I. units. However, multiples or sub-multiples of the units may be
used.
PART 1
INTERACTION OF MATTER, SPACE & TIME
TOPICS NOTES
1. Concepts of matter Simple structure of matter should be discussed.
Three physics states of matter, namely solid,
liquid and gas should be treated. Evidence of
the particle nature of matter e.g. Brownian
motion experiment, Kinetic theory of matter.
Use of the theory to explain; states of matter
(solid, liquid and gas), pressure in a gas,
evaporation and boiling; cohesion, adhesion,
capillarity. Crystalline and amorphous
substances to be compared (Arrangement of
atoms in crystalline structure to be described e.g.
face centred, body centred.
2. Fundamental and derived quantities and Length, mass, time, electric current luminous
units intensity, thermodynamic temperature, amount
(a) Fundamental quantities and units of substance as examples of fundamental
quantities and m, kg, s, A, cd, K and mol as their
respective units.
(b) Derived quantities and units Volume, density and speed as derived quantities
and m3, kgm-3 and ms-1 as their respective units.
3. Position, distance and displacement.
(a) Concept of position as a location of Position of objects in space using the X,Y,Z
point-rectangular coordinates. axes should be mentioned.
(b) Measurement of distance
Use of string, metre rule, vernier calipers and
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(c) Concept of direction as a way of locating micrometer screw gauge. Degree of accuracy
a point –bearing should be noted. Metre (m) as unit of distance.
(d) Distinction between distance and Use of compass and a protractor.

displacement.
Graphical location and directions by axes to be
stressed.
TOPICS NOTES
4. Mass and weight Use of lever balance and chemical/beam balance
to measure mass and spring balance to measure
weight. Mention should be made of
electronic/digital balance.
Distinction between mass and weight Kilogram (kg) as unit of mass and newton (N) as
unit of weight.
5. Time
(a) Concept of time as interval between The use of heart-beat, sand-clock, ticker-timer,
physical events pendulum and stopwatch/clock.
(b) Measurement of time Second(s) as unit of time.
6. Fluid at rest
(a) Volume, density and relative density Experimental determination for solids and
liquids.
(b) Pressure in fluids Concept and definition of pressure. Pascal’s

principle, application of principle to hydraulic
press and car brakes. Dependence of pressure
on the depth of a point below a liquid surface.
Atmospheric pressure. Simple barometer,
manometer, siphon, syringe and pump.
Determination of the relative density of liquids
with U-tube and Hare’s apparatus.
(c) Equilibrium of bodies Identification of the forces acting on a body

partially or completely immersed in a fluid.
(i) Archimedes’ principle Use of the principle to determine the relative

densities of solids and liquids.
(ii) Law of flotation Establishing the conditions for a body to float in
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a fluid. Applications in hydrometer, balloons,

boats, ships, submarines etc.
TOPICS NOTES
7. Motion
(a) Types of motion: Only qualitative treatment is required.
Random, rectilinear, translational, Illustration should be given for the various types of
Rotational, circular, orbital, spin, motion.
Oscillatory.
(b) Relative motion Numerical problems on co-linear motion may be set.
(c) Cause of motion Force as cause of motion.
(d) Types of force:

(i) Contact force Push and pull
(ii) Non-contact force(field force) These are field forces namely; electric and magnetic
attractions and repulsions; gravitational pull.
Frictional force between two stationary bodies

(static) and between two bodies in relative motion
(e) Solid friction
(dynamic). Coefficients of limiting friction and their
determinations. Advantages of friction e.g. in
locomotion, friction belt, grindstone. Disadvantages
of friction e.g reduction of efficiency, wear and tear
of machines. Methods of reducing friction; e.g. use
of ball bearings, rollers, streamlining and lubrication.
Definition and effects. Simple explanation as

extension of friction in fluids. Fluid friction and its
application in lubrication should be treated
(f) Viscosity (friction in fluids)
qualitatively. Terminal velocity and its
determination.
Experiments with a string tied to a stone at one end

and whirled around should be carried out to
(g) Simple ideas of circular motion
(i) demonstrate motion in a
Vertical/horizontal circle.
TOPICS NOTES
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(i) show the difference between angular speed and

velocity.
(ii) Draw a diagram to illustrate centripetal force.

Banking of roads in reducing sideways friction
should be qualitatively discussed.
8. Speed and velocity
(a) Concept of speed as change of

distance with time
(b) Concept of velocity as change of Metre per second (ms-1) as unit of speed/velocity.
displacement with time
(c) Uniform/non-uniform Ticker-timer or similar devices should be used to

speed/velocity determine speed/velocity. Definition of velocity as
∆ s ∆t.
Determination of instantaneous speed/velocity from

(d) Distance/displacement-time graph distance/displacement-time graph and by calculation.
9. Rectilinear acceleration
(a) Concept of
Acceleration/deceleration as Unit of acceleration as ms-2
increase/decrease in velocity with
time.
(b) Uniform/non-uniform acceleration

Ticker timer or similar devices should be used to
determine acceleration. Definition of acceleration as
∆ v ∆t .
(c) Velocity-time graph
Determination of acceleration and displacement
from velocity-time graph
(d) Equations of motion with constant
acceleration; Use of equations to solve numerical problems.
Motion under gravity as a special

case.
TOPICS NOTES
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10. Scalars and vectors
(a) Concept of scalars as physical Mass, distance, speed and time as examples of
quantities with magnitude and no scalars.
direction
(b) Concept of vectors as physical Weight, displacement, velocity and acceleration as

quantities with both magnitude and examples of vectors.
direction.
(c) Vector representation
(d) Addition of vectors Use of force board to determine the resultant of two
forces.
(e) Resolution of vectors

Obtain the resultant of two velocities analytically
and graphically.
(f) Resultant velocity using vector
representation.
11. Equilibrium of forces Torque/Moment of force. Simple treatment of a

couple, e.g. turning of water tap, corkscrew and
(a) Principle of moments steering wheel.)
Use of force board to determine resultant and

equilibrant forces. Treatment should include
(b) Conditions for equilibrium of rigid resolution of forces into two perpendicular directions
bodies under the action of parallel and composition of forces
and non-parallel forces. Parallelogram of forces. Triangle of forces.
Should ne treated experimentally. Treatment should

include stable, unstable and neutral equilibra.
(c) Centre of gravity and stability

Use of a loaded test-tube oscillating vertically in a
liquid, simple pendulum, spiral spring and bifilar
12. Simple harmonic motion suspension to demonstrate simple harmonic motion.
(a) Illustration, explanation and

definition of simple harmonic
motion (S.H.M)
TOPICS NOTES
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(b) Speed and acceleration of S.H.M. Relate linear and angular speeds, linear and angular
accelerations.
(c) Period, frequency and amplitude Experimental determination of ‘g’ with the simple
of a body executing S.H.M. pendulum and helical spring. The theory of the
principles should be treated but derivation of the
formula for ‘g’ is not required
(d) Energy of S.H.M
Simple problems may be set on simple harmonic
motion. Mathematical proof of simple harmonic
(e) Forced vibration and resonance motion in respect of spiral spring, bifilar suspension
and loaded test-tube is not required.
Distinction between inertia mass and weight

13. Newton’s laws of motion:
(a) First Law:

Inertia of rest and inertia of Use of timing devices e.g. ticker-timer to determine
motion the acceleration of a falling body and the
relationship when the accelerating force is constant.
(b) Second Law:
Force, acceleration, momentum Linear momentum and its conservation.
and impulse Collision of elastic bodies in a straight line.
Applications: recoil of a gun, jet and rocket

propulsions.
(c) Third Law:

Action and reaction
PART II
ENERGY: Mechanical and Heat
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TOPICS NOTES
14. Energy:
(a) Forms of energy Examples of various forms of energy should be
mentioned e.g. mechanical (potential and kinetic),
heat chemical, electrical, light, sound, nuclear.
(b) World energy resources Renewable (e.g. solar, wind, tides, hydro, ocean
waves) and non-renewable (e.g. petroleum, coal,
nuclear, biomass) sources of energy should be
discussed briefly.
(c) Conservation of energy. Statement of the principle of conservation of energy

and its use in explaining energy transformations.
15. Work, Energy and Power
(a) Concept of work as a measure of Unit of energy as the joule (J)

energy transfer
(b) Concept of energy as capability to Unit of energy as the joule (J) while unit of electrical
do work consumption is KWh.
Work done in lifting a body and by falling bodies

(c) Work done in a gravitational field.
Derivation of P.E and K.E are expected to be known.
Identification of types of energy possessed by a body
(d) Types of mechanical energy under given conditions.
(i) Potential energy (P.E.)
(ii) Kinetic energy (K.E) Verification of the principle.
(e) Conservation of mechanical

energy.
TOPICS NOTES
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(f) Concept of power as time rate of Unit of power as the watt (W)
doing work.
(g) Application of mechanical energy- The force ratio (F.R), mechanical advantage (M.A),
machines. velocity ratio (V.R) and efficiency of each machine
Levers, pulleys, inclined plane, should be treated.
wedge, screw, wheel and axle, Identification of simple machines that make up a
gears. given complicated machine e.g. bicycle.
Effects of friction on Machines. Reduction of
friction in machines.
16. Heat Energy
(a) Temperature and its measurement Concept of temperature as degree of hotness or

coldness of a body. Construction and graduation of
a simple thermometer.
Properties of thermometric liquids. The following
thermometer, should be treated:
Constant – volume gas thermometer, resistance
thermometer, thermocouple, liquid-in-glass
thermometer including maximum and minimum
thermometer and clinical thermometer, pyrometer
should be mentioned. Celsius and Absolute scales
of temperature. Kelvin and degree Celsius as units of
temperature.
(b) Effects of heat on matter e.g Use of the Kinetic theory to explain effects of heat.
(i) Rise in temperature Mention should be made of the following effects:

(ii) Change of phase state Change of colour
(iii) Expansion Thermionic emission
(iv) Change of resistance Change in chemical properties
(c) Thermal expansion – Linear, area Qualitative and quantitative treatment

and volume expansivities Consequences and application of expansions.
Expansion in buildings and bridges, bimetallic strips,
thermostat, over-head cables causing sagging nd in
railway lines causing buckling. Real and apparent
expansion of liquids. Anomalous expansion of
water.
TOPICS NOTES
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(d) Heat transfer – Per Kelvin (K-1) as the unit of expansivity.

Condition, convention and
radiation. Use of the kinetic theory to explain the modes of
heat transfer. Simple experimental illustrations.
Treatment should include the explanation of land
and sea breezes, ventilation and application s in
cooling devices. The vacuum flask.
(e) The gas laws-Boyle’s law The laws should be verified using simple apparatus.
Charles’ law, pressure law and Use of the kinetic theory to explain the laws. Simple
general gas law problems may be set. Mention should be made of
the operation of safety air bags in vehicles.
(f) Measurement of heat energy: Use of the method of mixtures and the electrical
(i) Concept of heat capacity method to determine the specific heat capacities of
(ii) Specific heat capacity. solids and liquids. Land and sea breezes related to
the specific heat capacity of water and land, Jkg-1
K-1 as unit of specific heat capacity.
(g) Latent heat Explanation and types of latent heat.

(i) Concept of latent heat
(ii) Melting point and boiling Determination of the melting point of solid and the
Point boiling point of a liquid. Effects of impurities and
pressure on melting and boiling points. Application
in pressure cooker.
(iii) Specific latent heat of fusion Use of the method of mixtures and the electrical
and of vaporization method to determine the specific latent heats of
fusion of ice and of vaporization of steam.
Applications in refrigerators and air conditioners.
Jkg-1 as unit of specific latent heat
TOPICS NOTES
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(h) Evaporation and boiling Effect of temperature, humidity, surface area and
draught on evaporation to be discussed.
(i) Vapour and vapour pressure Explanation of vapour and vapour pressure.
Demonstration of vapour pressure using simple
experiments. Saturated vapour pressure and its
relation to boiling.
Measurement of dew point and relative humidity.

(j) Humidity, relative humidity and Estimation of humidity of the atmosphere using wet
dew point and dry-bulb hygrometer.
Formation of dew, fog and rain.

(k) Humidity and the weather
PART III
WAVES
TOPICS NOTES
17. Production and propagation of waves
(a) Production and propagation of Use of ropes and springs (slinky) to generate
mechanical waves mechanical waves
(b) Pulsating system: Use of ripple tank to show water waves and to
Energy transmitted with definite demonstrate energy propagation by waves.
speed, frequency and wavelength. Hertz(Hz) as unit of frequency.
(c) Waveform Description and graphical representation.

Amplitude, wave length, frequency and period.
Sound and light as wave phenomena.
(d) Mathematical relationship V= f and T = simple problems may be set.

connecting frequency (f),
wavelength( ), period (T) and
velocity (v)
18. Types of waves

Examples to be given
(a) Transverse and longitudinal
Equation y = A sin (wt± ) to be explained
(b) Mathematical representation of Questions on phase difference will not be set.
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wave motion.
Ripple tank should be extensively used to
demonstrate these properties with plane and circular
19. Properties of waves: waves. Explanation of the properties.
Reflection, refraction, diffraction,
Interference, superposition of
progressive waves producing standing
stationary waves
20. Light waves Natural and artificial. Luminous and non-luminous

bodies.
(a) Sources of light
TOPICS NOTES
(b) Rectilinear propagation of light Formation of shadows and eclipse. Pinhole camera.
Simple numerical problems may be set.
(c) Reflection of light at plane surface: Regular and irregular reflections. Verification of
plane mirror laws of reflection. Formation of images.
Inclined plane mirrors. Rotation of mirrors.
Applications in periscope, sextant and kaleidoscope.
(d) Reflection of light at curved Laws of reflection. Formation of images.

surfaces: concave and convex Characteristics of images. Use of mirror formulae:
mirrors + = and magnification m = to solve
numerical problems.
(Derivation of formulae is not required)
Experimental determination of the focal length of

concave mirror.
Applications in searchlight, parabolic and driving
mirrors, car headlamps etc.
(e) Refraction of light at plane surfaces: Laws of refraction. Formation of images, real and
rectangular glass prism (block) and Apparent depths. Critical angle and total internal
triangular prism. reflection. Lateral displacement and angle of
deviation. Use of minimum deviation equation:
(f) Refraction of light at curved Sin (A + Dm)

= 2
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surfaces: Sin A/2

Converging and diverging lenses (Derivation of the formula is not required)
Applications: periscope, prism binoculars, optical
fibres. The mirage.
Formation of images. Use of lens formulae

+ = and magnification tp solve numerical
problems.
TOPICS NOTES
(derivation of the formulae not required).

Experimental determination of the focal length of
converging lens. Power of lens in dioptres (D)
(g) Application of lenses in optical Simple camera, the human eye, film projector,
instruments. simple and compound microscopes, terrestrial and
astronomical telescopes. Angular magnification.
Prism binoculars. The structure and function of the
camera and the human eye should be compared.
Defects of the human eye and their corrections.
(h) Dispersion of white light by a Production of pure spectrum of a white light.

triangular glass prism. Recombination of the components of the spectrum.
Colours of objects. Mixing coloured lights.
21. Electromagnetic waves: Elementary description and uses of various types of

Types of radiation in electromagnetic radiation: Radio, infrared, visible light, ultra-violet,
Spectrum X-rays, gamma rays.
22. Sound Waves
(a) Sources of sound

(b) Transmission of sound waves Experiment to show that a material medium is
required.
(c) Speed of sound in solid, liquid and To be compared. Dependence of velocity of sound
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air on temperature and pressure to be considered.
(d) Echoes and reverberation Use of echoes in mineral exploration, and

determination of ocean depth. Thunder and multiple
reflections in a large room as examples of
reverberation.
(e) Noise and music Pitch, loudness and quality.

(f) Characteristics of sound
TOPICS NOTES
(g) Vibration in strings The use of sonometer to demonstrate the dependence

of frequency (f) on length (1), tension (T) and mass
per unit length (liner density) (m) of string should be
treated. Use of the formula:
o =
In solving simple numerical problems.
Applications in stringed instruments: e.g. guitar,
piano, harp and violin.
Use of resonance boxes and sonometer to illustrate

(h) Forced vibration
forced vibration.
Use of overtones to explain the quality of a musical

(i) Resonance
note. Applications in percussion instruments: e.g
(ii) Harmonies and overtones
drum, bell, cymbals, xylophone.
Measurement of velocity of sound in air or

(i) Vibration of air in pipe – open
frequency of tuning fork using the resonance tube.
and closed pipes
Use of the relationship v = in solving numerical
problems. End correction is expected to be
mentioned. Applications in wind instruments e.g.
organ, flute, trumpet, horn, clarinet and saxophone.
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PART IV
FIELDS
TOPICS NOTES
23. Description property of fields.
(a) Concept of fields:

Gravitational, electric and
Magnetic
(b) Properties of a force field Use of compass needle and iron filings to show
magnetic field lines.
24. Gravitational field
(a) Acceleration due to gravity, (g) G as gravitational field intensity should be

mentioned, g = F/m.
(b) Gravitational force between two
masses: Masses include protons, electrons and planets
Newton’s law of gravitation Universal gravitational constant (G)

Relationship between ‘G’ and ‘g’
(c) Gravitational potential and escape Calculation of the escape velocity of a rocket from
velocity. the earth’s gravitational field.
25. Electric Field
(1) Electrostatics
(a) Production of electric charges Production by friction, induction and contact.
(b) Types of distribution of A simple electroscope should be used to detect and

charges compare charges on differently-shaped bodies.
(c) Storage of charges Application in light conductors.
(d) Electric lines of force Determination, properties and field patterns of

charges.
TOPICS NOTES
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(e) Electric force between point Permittivity of a medium.

charges: Coulomb’s law
(f) Concepts of electric field, Calculation of electric field intensity and electric
electric field intensity (potential potential of simple systems.
gradient) and electric potential.
(g) Capacitance- Factors affecting the capacitance of a parallel-plate

Definition, arrangement and capacitor. The farad (F) as unit of capacitance.
application Capacitors in series and in parallel.
Energy stored in a charged capacitor. Uses of
capacitors: e.g. in radio and Television.
(Derivation of formulae for capacitance is not
required)
(2) Current electricity
(a) Production of electric current Simple cell and its defects. Daniel cell, Lechanché
from primary and secondary cell (wet and dry).
cells Lead-acid accumulator. Alkalne-cadium cell.
E.m.f. of a cell, the volt (V) as unit of e.m.f.
(b) Potential difference and electric Ohm’s law and resistance. Verification of Ohm’s
current law. The volt (V), ampere (A) and ohm (Ω) as units
of p.d., current and reisistance respectively.
(c) Electric circuit Series and parallel arrangement of cells and

resistors. Lost volt and internal resistance of
batteries.
(d) Electric conduction through Ohmic and non ohmic conductors. Examples of
materials ohmic conductors are metals, non-ohmic conductors
are semiconductors.
(e) Electric energy and power Quantitative definition of electrical energy and
power. Heating effect of an electric current and its
application. Conversion of electrical energy to
mechanical energy e.g. electric motors.
Conversion of solar energy to electrical and heat
energies: e.g. solar cells, solar heaters.
TOPICS NOTES
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(f) Shunt and multiplier Use in conversion of a galvanometer into an

ammeter and a voltmeter.
(g) Resistivity and Conductivity Factors affecting the electrical resistance of a

material should be treated. Simple problems may be
set.
(h) Measurement of electric Principle of operation and use of ammeter,

current, potential difference, voltmeter, potentiometer. The wheatstone bridge
resistance, e.m.f. and internal and metre bridge.
resistance of a cell.
26. Magnetic field
(a) Properties of magnets and Practical examples such as soft iron, steel and alloys.
magnetic materials.
(b) Magnetization and Temporary and permanent magnets. Comparison of

demagnetization. iron and steel as magnetic materials.
(c) Concept of magnetic field Magnetic flux and magnetic flux density.
Magnetic field around a permanent magnet, a
current-carrying conductor and a solenoid.
Plotting of line of force to locate neutral points
Units of magnetic flux and magnetic flux density as
weber (Wb) and tesla (T) respectively.
(d) Magnetic force on: Qualitative treatment only. Applications: electric

(i) a current-carrying conductor motor and moving-coil galvanometer.
placed in a magnetic field;
(ii) between two parallel
current-carrying conductors Examples in electric bell, telephone earpiece etc.
(e) Use of electromagnets
Mariner’s compass. Angles of dip and declination.
(f) The earth’s magnetic field
Solving simple problems involving the motion of a
(g) Magnetic force on a moving charged particle in a magnetic field, using
charged particle F=qvB sin
27. Electromagnetic field

Identifying the directions of current, magnetic field
(a) Concept of electromagnetic field and force in an electromagnetic field (Fleming’s left-
hand rule).
TOPICS NOTES
18
(i) Shunt and multiplier Use in conversion of a galvanometer into an

ammeter and a voltmeter.
(j) Resistivity and Conductivity Factors affecting the electrical resistance of a

material should be treated. Simple problems may be
set.
(k) Measurement of electric Principle of operation and use of ammeter,

current, potential difference, voltmeter, potentiometer. The wheatstone bridge
resistance, e.m.f. and internal and metre bridge.
resistance of a cell.
26. Magnetic field
(h) Properties of magnets and Practical examples such as soft iron, steel and alloys.
magnetic materials.
(i) Magnetization and Temporary and permanent magnets. Comparison of

demagnetization. iron and steel as magnetic materials.
(j) Concept of magnetic field Magnetic flux and magnetic flux density.
Magnetic field around a permanent magnet, a
current-carrying conductor and a solenoid.
Plotting of line of force to locate neutral points
Units of magnetic flux and magnetic flux density as
weber (Wb) and tesla (T) respectively.
(k) Magnetic force on: Qualitative treatment only. Applications: electric

(i) a current-carrying conductor motor and moving-coil galvanometer.
placed in a magnetic field;
(ii) between two parallel
current-carrying conductors Examples in electric bell, telephone earpiece etc.
(l) Use of electromagnets
Mariner’s compass. Angles of dip and declination.
(m) The earth’s magnetic field
Solving simple problems involving the motion of a
(n) Magnetic force on a moving charged particle in a magnetic field, using F=qvB
charged particle sin
27. Electromagnetic field

Identifying the directions of current, magnetic field
(a) Concept of electromagnetic field and force in an electromagnetic field (Fleming’s left-
hand rule).
TOPIC NOTES
19
(b) Electromagnetic induction
Faraday’s law ,Lenz’s law and Applications: Generator (d.c.and a.c.) induction coil
motor-generator effect and transformer. The principles underlying the
production of direct and alternating currents should
be treated. Equation E = Eo sinwt should be
explained.
(c) Inductance Qualitative explanation of self and mutual

inductance. The unit of inductance is henry (H).
(E = LI2)
Application in radio,T.V., transformer.

(Derivation of formula is not required).
(d) Eddy currents
A method of reducing eddy current losses should be
treated. Applications in induction furnace,
speedometer, etc.
Reduction of power losses in high-tension

(e) Power transmission and
transmission lines. Household wiring system should
distribution
be discussed.
28. Simple a.c. circuits
(a) Graphical representation of e.m.f

Graphs of equation I – Io sin wt and\E = Eo sinwt
and current in an a.c. circult.
should be treated.
(b) Peak and r..m.s. values
Phase relationship between voltage and current in
the circuit elements; resistor, inductor and capacitor.
TOPIC
NOTES
20
(c) Series circuit containing Simple calculations involving a.c. circuit.

resistor, inductor and capacitor (Derivation of formulae is not required.)
(d) Reactance and impedance XL and Xc should be treated. Simple numerical

problems may be set.
(e) Vector diagrams
(f) Resonance in an a.c, circuit Applications in tuning of radio and T.V. should be
discussed.
(g) Power in an a.c. circuit.
PART V
ATOMIC AND NUCELAR PHYSICS
TOPICS NOTES
.
29. Structure of the atom Thomson, Rutherford, Bohr and electron-
cloud (wave-mechanical) models should be
(a) Models of the atom discussed qualitatively. Limitations of each
model. Quantization of angular momentum
(Bohr)
Energy levels in the atom. Colour and light

frequency. Treatment should include the
(b) Energy quantization following: Frank-Hertz experiment, Line
spectra from hot bodies, absorption spectra
and spectra of discharge lamps.
Explanation of photoelectric effect. Dual

nature of light. Work function and threshold
(c) Photoelectric effect frequency. Einstein’s photoelectric equation
and its explanation. Application in T.V.,
camera, etc.
Simple problems may be set.
(d) Thermionic emission Explanation and applications.
21
(e) X-rays Production of X-rays and structure of X-ray

tube.
Types, characteristics, properties, uses and
30. Structure of the nucleus hazards of X-rays. Safety precautions
(a) Composition of the nucleus Protons and neutrons. Nucleon number (A),
proton number (Z), neutron number (N) and
the equation: A-Z + N to be treated.
Nuclides and their notation. Isotopes.
TOPICS NOTES
(a) Radioactivity – Radioactive elements, radioactive emissions

Natural and artificial ( ,β, )and their properties and uses.
Detection of radiations by G – M counter,
photographic plates, etc. should be
mentioned. Radioactive decay, half-life and
decay constant.
Transformation of elements. Applications of
radioactivity in agriculture, medicine,
industry, archaeology, etc.
(b) Nuclear reactions --- Distinction between fusion and fission.

Fusion and Fission Binding energy, mass defect and energy
equation:
E= ∆ mc2
Nuclear reactors. Atomic bomb. Radiation

hazards and safety precautions. Peaceful
uses of nuclear reactions.
31. Wave-particle paradox
(a) Electron diffraction Simple illustration of the dual nature of

(b) Duality of matter light.
22
HARMONISED TOPICS FOR SHORT STRUCTURED QUESTIONS FOR

ALL MEMBER COUNTRIES
TOPICS NOTES
1. Derived quantities and dimensional Fundamental quantities and units e.g. Length, mass,
Analysis time, electric current, luminous intensity e.t.c., m,
kg,s, A, cd, e.t.c. as their respective units
Derived quantities and units. e.g. volume, density,
speed e.t.c. m3, kgm-3, ms-1 e.t.c. as their respective
unit
Explanation of dimensions in terms of fundamental
and derived quantities. Uses of dimensions
- to verity dimensional correctness of a given
equation
- to derive the relationship between quantities
- to obtain derived units.
2. Projectile motion concept of Applications of projectiles in warfare, sports etc.

projectiles as an object thrown/release Simple problems involving range, maximum height
into space and time of flight may be set.
3. Satellites and rockets Meaning of a satellite comparison of natural and

artificial satellites parking orbits, Geostationary
satellites and period of revolution and speed of a
satellite.
Uses of satellites and rockets
4. Elastic Properties of solid: Behaviour of elastic materials under stress – features

Hooke’s law, Young’s modules and of load – extension graph
work done in springs and string Simple calculations on Hook’s law and Young’s
modulus.
Thermal conductivity: Solar energy; solar panel for heat energy supply.
Solar energy collector and Black body Explanation of a blackbody. Variation of intensity
Radiation. of black body radiation with wavelength at different
temperatures.
5. Fibre Optics Explanation of concept of fibre optics.

Principle of transmission of light through an optical
fibre
Applications of fibre optics e.g. local area Networks
(LAN) medicine, rensing devices, carrying laser
beams e.t.c.
TOPICS NOTES
23
6. Introduction to LASER Meaning of LASER

Types of LASERS
(Solid state, gas, liquid and semi-conductor
LASERS
Application of LASERS
(in Scientific research, communication, medicine
military technology, Holograms e.t.c.
Dangers involved in using LASERS.
7. Magnetic materials Uses of magnets and ferromagnetic materials.
8. Electrical Conduction through Distinction between conductors, semiconductors and

materials [Electronic] insulators in term of band theory.
Semi conductor materials (silicon and germanium)
Meaning of intrinsic semiconductors. (Example of
materials silicon and germanium). Charge carriers
Doping production of p-type and n-type extrinsic
semi conductors.
Junction diode – forward and reverse biasing,
voltage characteristics. Uses of diodes Half and full
wave rectification.
9. Structure of matter Use of kinetic theory to explain diffusion.
10. Wave – particle paradox Electron diffraction

Duality of matter
Simple illustrations of dual nature of light.
24

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WAEC Syllabus - Uploaded online by www.myschoolgist.com.

(2) Information Handling and Problem-solving

Candidates should be able to

(a) follow instructions;

(d) interpret, evaluate and report on observations and experimental data;

(f) evaluate methods and suggest possible improvements;

PAPER 3: Will be a practical test for school candidates or an alternative to practical

(d) Distinction between distance and Use of compass and a protractor.

(b) Measurement of time Second(s) as unit of time.

(b) Pressure in fluids Concept and definition of pressure. Pascal’s

(c) Equilibrium of bodies Identification of the forces acting on a body

(i) Archimedes’ principle Use of the principle to determine the relative

(ii) Law of flotation Establishing the conditions for a body to float in

a fluid. Applications in hydrometer, balloons,

(d) Types of force:

Frictional force between two stationary bodies

Definition and effects. Simple explanation as

Experiments with a string tied to a stone at one end

(i) show the difference between angular speed and

(ii) Draw a diagram to illustrate centripetal force.

8. Speed and velocity

(a) Concept of speed as change of

(c) Uniform/non-uniform Ticker-timer or similar devices should be used to

Determination of instantaneous speed/velocity from

(b) Uniform/non-uniform acceleration

Motion under gravity as a special

10. Scalars and vectors

(b) Concept of vectors as physical Weight, displacement, velocity and acceleration as

(c) Vector representation

(e) Resolution of vectors

11. Equilibrium of forces Torque/Moment of force. Simple treatment of a

Use of force board to determine resultant and

Should ne treated experimentally. Treatment should

(c) Centre of gravity and stability

(a) Illustration, explanation and

Distinction between inertia mass and weight

(a) First Law:

Applications: recoil of a gun, jet and rocket

(c) Third Law:

(c) Conservation of energy. Statement of the principle of conservation of energy

(a) Concept of work as a measure of Unit of energy as the joule (J)

Work done in lifting a body and by falling bodies

(i) Potential energy (P.E.)

(ii) Kinetic energy (K.E) Verification of the principle.

(e) Conservation of mechanical

(a) Temperature and its measurement Concept of temperature as degree of hotness or

(i) Rise in temperature Mention should be made of the following effects:

(c) Thermal expansion – Linear, area Qualitative and quantitative treatment

(d) Heat transfer – Per Kelvin (K-1) as the unit of expansivity.

(g) Latent heat Explanation and types of latent heat.

Jkg-1 as unit of specific latent heat

Measurement of dew point and relative humidity.

Formation of dew, fog and rain.

(c) Waveform Description and graphical representation.

(d) Mathematical relationship V= f and T = simple problems may be set.

18. Types of waves

20. Light waves Natural and artificial. Luminous and non-luminous

(d) Reflection of light at curved Laws of reflection. Formation of images.

Experimental determination of the focal length of