Page 12 - Physics

Physics for Secondary Schools

Importance of studying physics (d) The study of physics enables us to
Generally, physics helps us to understand acquire knowledge and skills that are
nature. The following are examples of its applied in designing and constructing
importance. different items which are useful in
(a) The study of physics enables a person our daily lives. These include simple
to answer questions about the physical machines such as pulleys inclined
properties of matter. planes, and complex ones like
(b) Physics helps to answer questions like bicycles, escalators, and bulldozers.
why some materials are attracted by (e) Physics is fun. It helps to understand
magnets while others are not, why the the applications of physics principles
sky looks blue, and why clouds look in sports and games.
white.
(c) The study of physics enables us (f) Physics helps to understand the
to acquire skills that are required working principles of home appliances
in different professions such as such as electric irons, grinders, vacuum
engineering, technology, teaching, fl asks, thermos fl asks, cooking stoves,
and architecture. televisions, and radios.

Contribution of Physics to the development of modern society
Discoveries in physics have led to various inventions that infl uence our lives. Electricity,
motor vehicles, and electronics in general, are results of scientifi c and technological
advancement. The study of how to control tiny particles like electrons and protons
led to the discovery of electronics which in turn led to the production of devices like
calculators and computers. Other applications of physics which can be experienced in
daily life situations include the following:

At home
All tools and machinery that we use in our homes to simplify work are made by applying
different laws of physics. These include crowbars, hammers, door handles, cutlery,
hinges, and pulleys. For example, garden shear and sprayer are used when working in
a home garden as shown in Figure 1.7.

(a) Garden shear (b) Sprayer
Figure 1.7: Tools used for working at a home garden

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Student’s Book Form One

Physics Form 1 Final.indd 6 16/10/2024 20:55