A Level Physics B OCR
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Start revising this course →Content Overview
90 topics in 16 modules
☑️ Development of Practical Skills in Physics 4 topics
- Planning
- Implementing
- Analysing Results
- Evaluations and Conclusions
☑️ Fundamental Data Analysis 3 topics
- Quantities, Units and Graphs
- Measurements
- Uncertainties
☑️ Imaging and Signalling 6 topics
- The Nature of Waves
- Polarisation
- Forming Images with Lenses
- Information in Images
- Digital and Analogue Signal
- Sampling and Transmitting Signals
☑️ Sensing 7 topics
- Charge, Current and Potential Difference
- Resistance and Conductance
- Electrical Properties of Solids
- E.m.f. and Internal Resistance
- Conservation of Energy
- Charge in Circuits
- The Potential Divider
☑️ Mechanical Properties of Materials 5 topics
- Hooke’s Law
- Stress, Strain and Elastic Energy
- The Young Modulus
- Mechanical Properties of Solids
- Structures of Materials
☑️ Waves and Quantum Behaviour 11 topics
- Superposition and Coherence
- Standing Waves
- Refraction and Refractive Index
- Diffraction
- Two-Source Interference
- Diffraction Gratings
- Light - Wave or Particle?
- The Photoelectric Effect
- Energy Levels and Photon Emission
- The “Sum Over Paths” Theory
- Quantum Behaviour of Electrons
☑️ Space, Time and Motion 13 topics
- Scalars and Vectors
- Motion with Constant Acceleration
- Acceleration of Free Fall
- Projectile Motion
- Displacement-Time Graphs
- Velocity-Time Graphs
- Motion Experiments and Models
- Forces
- Newton’s Laws of Motion
- Momentum and Impulse
- Terminal Velocity
- Work and Power
- Conservation of Energy
☑️ Creating Models 8 topics
- Radioactivity and Exponential Decay
- Capacitors
- Charging and Discharging
- Modelling Decay
- Simple Harmonic Motion
- Investigating Simple Harmonic Motion
- Modelling Simple Harmonic Motion
- Free and Forced Vibrations
☑️ Out Into Space 4 topics
- Circular Motion
- Gravitational Fields
- Gravitational Potential
- Orbits
☑️ Our Place in the Universe 3 topics
- Using Astronomical Scales
- Astronomical Distances
- Astronomical Velocities
☑️ Matter: Very Simple 5 topics
- Temperature
- Specific Thermal Capacity
- Ideal Gases
- Kinetic Theory
- Internal Energy
☑️ Matter: Hot or Cold 2 topics
- Activation Energy
- The Boltzmann Factor
☑️ Electromagnetism 3 topics
- Magnetic Fields
- Electromagnetic Induction
- Transformers and Dynamos
☑️ Charge and Field 4 topics
- Electric Fields
- Electric Potential
- Millikan’s Oil-Drop Experiment
- Charged Particles in Magnetic Fields
☑️ Probing Deep into Matter 7 topics
- Scattering to Determine Structure
- Particles
- Antiparticles
- Pair Production and Annihilation
- Quarks
- Particle Accelerators
- Electron Energy Levels
☑️ Ionising Radiation and Risk 5 topics
- Radioactive Emissions
- Dangers of Radiation
- Binding Energy
- Nuclear Fission
- Nuclear Fusion
A Level Physics B OCR Revision Content
Take a look at the written content available for this course. Practice-question availability may vary.
A Level Physics B OCR - Development of Practical Skills in Physics - Planning Content Preview
Development of Practical Skills in Physics
Planning
Planning an Experiment
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Define the research question – To start planning an experiment, it is essential to define the research question. This should be a clear, focused and detailed question that the experiment aims to answer.
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Identify the variables – The independent, dependent and control variables need to be clearly identified. The independent variable is the one that is manipulated, the dependent variable is the one being measured, and any control variables are those kept constant to ensure a fair test.
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Formulate a hypothesis – Based on prior knowledge and preliminary research, formulate a hypothesis or prediction for the results of the experiment.
Experimental Design
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Select appropriate apparatus – Choose the equipment that will be suitable for the experiment. Consider accuracy and the range of measurement that each piece of equipment offers.
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Create a procedure - This should be a detailed, step-by-step guide to carrying out your experiment. Be sure to include the initial steps needed to set up the experiment, how the data will be collected, and how the independent variables will be manipulated.
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Safety considerations - All potential hazards and risks in the experiment should be considered and described. Protective measures for handling equipment and materials should also be included.
Data Collection
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Plan data collection methods - propose how data will be collected, including the method of measurement and how to reduce error.
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Specify intervals - where relevant, define the intervals at which data will be collected.
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Data recording - Plan for an organised method to record the data collected, making it easier to analyse and interpret later on.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
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Data representation - Decide on the best method to represent the data visually for easier interpretation. This might include graphs, charts, or tables.
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Error and uncertainty analysis - Plan for an analysis of possible errors and uncertainties in measurements. Consider both systematic and random errors and propose methods to handle or minimize these.
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Statistical tests - Determine which statistical tests may be useful for analysing the data and for validating conclusions.
Remember, the quality of the planning stage has a great impact on the success of the experiment and the reliability of the conclusions drawn. Good planning is science in action!
Question: What is the difference between the independent variable and dependent variable in the planning stage of an experiment?
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