DIGITAL LIBRARY

ከ High school እስከ Campus አበረናችሁ ነን!

Access High Quality Study Materials For Free

Join Us Now on Telegram

@QesemAcademy
 UNIT ONE
PHYSICS AND HUMAN
SOCIETY
1.1 Definition and Nature of Physics

Introduction
Brief overview of physics
Physics is the branch of science concerned with the nature
and properties of matter and energy. It encompasses a wide
range of phenomena, from the smallest subatomic particles
to the largest galaxies.
Relevance and applications in real-life
Physics plays a crucial role in many aspects of our daily lives.
It explains how things move, the nature of forces, the
properties of energy, and the behavior of matter. Applications
include:
Technology: Development of electronic devices, medical
imaging, renewable energy sources.
Engineering: Structural design, materials science.
Everyday phenomena: Gravity causing objects to fall,
electrical circuits in homes.

Concepts and Theories

Definition of Physics
Physics is the study of matter, energy, and the interactions
between them. It aims to understand the fundamental
principles governing the universe.
Nature of Physics
Physics seeks to understand the natural world through:
Observation: Collecting data and noticing patterns.
Experimentation: Testing hypotheses under controlled
conditions.
Theoretical Analysis: Developing models and theories to
explain observations.
Real-world examples
Gravity: Explains why objects fall to the ground.
Electricity: Powers household appliances and lighting.
Motion: Describes how vehicles travel and sports activities
are performed.
Worked Examples
Example 1: Dropping a Ball
When you drop a ball, it falls to the ground due to gravity. This is a straightforward example of a physical
phenomenon where physics explains the motion and forces involved.
Example 2: Friction on a Surface
When you slide a book across a table, it eventually stops due to friction. Physics helps us understand
how friction opposes motion and affects movement.
UNIT ONE
PHYSICS AND HUMAN
SOCIETY
1.2 Branches of Physics

Brief overview of different branches of physics

Physics is a broad field that encompasses various branches,
each focusing on different aspects of matter and energy.
These branches help us understand the universe's diverse
phenomena and have numerous practical applications in
everyday life.
Relevance and applications in real-life
Each branch of physics has specific real-life applications that
impact technology, industry, healthcare, and more.
Understanding these branches allows us to develop new
technologies, improve existing systems, and solve practical
problems.
 1.2 Branches of Physics

Mechanics
Mechanics is the branch of physics that deals with the study of motion and the forces that cause motion. It covers
concepts such as displacement, velocity, acceleration, and the laws of motion formulated by Sir Isaac Newton. Mechanics
is fundamental to understanding how objects move and interact in various environments, making it crucial for
engineering, transportation, and numerous technological applications.

Thermodynamics
Thermodynamics focuses on the study of heat and temperature, as well as their relation to energy and work. It includes
laws that describe how energy is transferred within systems and the changes in entropy that result. Thermodynamics is
essential for the design and operation of engines, refrigerators, and various industrial processes, as well as understanding
natural phenomena like weather patterns.

Electromagnetism
Electromagnetism involves the study of electric charges, electric and magnetic fields, and their interactions. This branch
encompasses a wide range of phenomena, from the behavior of charged particles to the workings of electric circuits and
electromagnetic waves. Applications of electromagnetism are vast, including the development of electrical devices,
communication systems, and medical technologies such as MRI machines.

Optics
Optics is the branch of physics that studies the behavior and properties of light. It covers phenomena such as reflection,
refraction, and diffraction, and explores how light interacts with different materials. Optics is fundamental to the
development of lenses, microscopes, telescopes, and fiber optic communication systems, playing a critical role in both
scientific research and practical technologies.

Quantum Mechanics
Quantum mechanics is the branch that deals with the behavior of particles at the atomic and subatomic levels. It
introduces concepts such as wave-particle duality, quantization of energy levels, and superposition. Quantum mechanics
is essential for understanding the structure and behavior of atoms and molecules, and it underpins modern technologies
like semiconductors, lasers, and quantum computing.

Relativity
Relativity, formulated by Albert Einstein, examines the effects of high speeds and strong gravitational fields on space,
time, and energy. It includes the special theory of relativity, which introduces the concept of space-time and the
equivalence of mass and energy, and the general theory of relativity, which describes gravitation as the curvature of
space-time. Relativity is crucial for understanding astronomical phenomena, the behavior of particles in accelerators, and
the functionality of GPS technology.
 UNIT ONE
PHYSICS AND HUMAN
SOCIETY
1.3 Related Fields to Physics

Brief overview of fields related to physics

Physics intersects with numerous scientific disciplines and
applied fields, enhancing our understanding and
technological capabilities. These related fields utilize the
principles of physics to explore, explain, and manipulate
various aspects of the natural and engineered world.
Relevance and applications in real-life
Understanding the connections between physics and related
fields can lead to innovations in technology, improvements
in healthcare, advances in scientific research, and solutions
to engineering challenges.

Engineering
Application of physics principles in designing and building structures, machines, and
processes.
Utilizes mechanics, electromagnetism, and thermodynamics.
Applications: Building bridges, designing electronic devices, creating efficient engines.
Chemistry
Study of matter and its interactions, heavily reliant on physical principles.
Explores atomic and molecular structures, reactions, and properties.
Applications: Drug development, material science, environmental monitoring.
Astronomy
Study of celestial objects and phenomena.
Uses principles of mechanics, electromagnetism, and relativity.
Applications: Understanding the universe's origin, predicting celestial events, space
exploration.
Biology
Study of living organisms, with biophysics focusing on biological processes.
Investigates molecular and cellular processes using physics concepts.
Applications: Medical imaging, understanding neural networks, biomechanics.
@QesemAcademy
 UNIT ONE
PHYSICS AND HUMAN
SOCIETY
1.3 Related Fields to Physics

rief overview of the history of physics

The history of physics traces the development of
fundamental principles and theories that have shaped our
understanding of the physical world. From ancient
observations to modern breakthroughs, physics has evolved
through the contributions of many key figures and pivotal
discoveries.
Relevance and applications in real-life
Historical developments in physics have led to technological
advancements that impact daily life, including innovations
in transportation, communication, healthcare, and energy.
Understanding the history helps appreciate the evolution of
these technologies and the scientific methods behind them.

1.2 Branches of Physics

Hstorical milestones in physics

Ancient Physics: Early observations and
theories from Greek philosophers like Aristotle.
Classical Mechanics: Formulated by Isaac
Newton in the 17th century, laying the
groundwork for classical physics.
Electromagnetism: Developed in the 19th
century by James Clerk Maxwell, unifying
electricity and magnetism.
Relativity and Quantum Mechanics:
Revolutionized 20th-century physics with
Albert Einstein's theory of relativity and
quantum theory developed by Max Planck, Niels
Bohr, and others.
Contributions of major physicists
Isaac Newton: Formulated the laws of motion
and universal gravitation.
Albert Einstein: Developed the theory of
relativity, including the famous equation
E=mc2E = mc^2E=mc2.
Marie Curie: Pioneered research on
radioactivity and was the first woman to win a
Nobel Prize.
Historical challenges and how they were overcome
Classical Mechanics: Overcame limitations in
understanding atomic and subatomic
phenomena, leading to the development of
quantum mechanics.
Quantum Theory: Addressed the limitations of
classical physics in explaining atomic and
molecular interactions.
EXERCISES
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs): 7. Who formulated the laws of motion?
1. What is the primary goal of physics? a) Albert Einstein
a)To study the properties of living b) Marie Curie
c) Isaac Newton
organisms.
d) James Clerk Maxwell
b)To understand the fundamental principles Answer: c) Isaac Newton
of matter and energy. 8. What is Albert Einstein best known for in physics?
c) To explore the history of science. a) Quantum Mechanics
d) To analyze financial markets. b) Laws of Motion
Answer: b) To understand the fundamental c) Theory of Relativity
principles of matter and energy. d) Electromagnetism
2. Which of the following is a fundamental concept Answer: c) Theory of Relativity
in physics?
a) Photosynthesis
b) Gravity
c) Evolution
d) Erosion
Answer: b) Gravity

3. Which branch of physics deals with the study of

light?
a) Mechanics
b) Thermodynamics
c) Optics
d) Quantum Mechanics
Answer: c) Optics

4. What does thermodynamics study? @QesemAcademy

a) Motion and forces
b) Heat and temperature
c) Electric and magnetic fields
d) Particles at the atomic level
Answer: b) Heat and temperature

5.Which field applies physics to design and build @QesemAcademy

machines?
a) Chemistry
b) Biology
c) Engineering
d) Astronomy
Answer: c) Engineering
6. How is physics related to chemistry?
a) By studying the behavior of celestial
objects.
b) Through the principles of mechanics and
motion.
c) By explaining atomic and molecular
interactions.
d) Through the study of living organisms.
Answer: c) By explaining atomic and
molecular interactions.
Short Answer Questions:
Explain the importance of physics in understanding natural phenomena.
Answer: Physics is crucial for understanding natural phenomena because it provides the fundamental principles that
explain how the universe works. From the behavior of particles at the smallest scales to the movement of planets
and galaxies, physics helps us make sense of the physical world around us.
Describe an everyday example that can be explained by physics.
Answer: An everyday example explained by physics is the use of electrical appliances. Physics principles such as
electricity and circuits allow us to understand how appliances like refrigerators, microwaves, and computers operate,
Describe the main focus of quantum mechanics.
Answer: Quantum mechanics focuses on the behavior and interactions of particles at the atomic and subatomic
levels, including phenomena such as wave-particle duality and quantization of energy levels.
Explain how electromagnetism impacts everyday technology.
Answer: Electromagnetism is fundamental to everyday technology, including the operation of electrical devices (e.g.,
motors, generators), communication systems (e.g., radio, television, internet), and medical imaging techniques (e.g.,
MRI scans).
Describe the role of physics in astronomy.
Answer: Physics plays a crucial role in astronomy by providing the fundamental principles that explain the behavior
of celestial objects and phenomena. Concepts from mechanics, electromagnetism, and relativity help astronomers
understand the movement of planets, the formation of stars, and the dynamics of galaxies, as well as predict events
such as eclipses and supernovae.
Explain how biophysics integrates principles of physics into biology.
Answer: Biophysics applies the principles and methods of physics to study biological systems. It investigates
processes such as the mechanics of muscle contraction, the electrical properties of neurons, and the diffusion of
molecules across cell membranes. By using physical concepts like force, energy, and thermodynamics, biophysics
helps to explain and quantify the complex behaviors of living organism
Describe one major contribution of Marie Curie to physics.
Answer: Marie Curie is renowned for her pioneering research on radioactivity. She discovered the elements
polonium and radium and was awarded two Nobel Prizes for her work in physics and chemistry.
Explain the significance of Newton's laws of motion.
Answer: Newton's laws of motion are foundational principles in classical mechanics. They describe the relationship
between the motion of an object and the forces acting upon it, providing a framework for understanding and
predicting physical phenomena.

@QesemAcademy