IE · Subject guide
Physics
Leaving Certificate Physics (NCCA specification), Higher and Ordinary Level, with the SEC examination.
01 · Overview
Physics
Leaving Certificate Physics (NCCA specification), Higher and Ordinary Level, with the SEC examination.
- Subject guide
- Leaving Certificate
- Topics mapped
- 10
02 · Complete topic map
Complete topic map
Every topic recorded for this subject in the curriculum is reproduced below in its full hierarchy. The descriptions reflect the mapped scope without implying additional exam rules.
- 01
Mechanics
Linear motion, vectors and scalars, forces and Newton's laws, momentum, gravity, density and pressure, moments and equilibrium, plus work, energy and power.
- 02
Temperature
The concept of temperature as a measure of hotness, thermometric properties, temperature scales and the calibration and use of thermometers.
- 03
Heat
Heat as a form of energy, heat capacity and specific heat capacity, latent heat, and the three modes of heat transfer (conduction, convection and radiation).
- 04
Waves
Properties of longitudinal and transverse waves, wave phenomena such as reflection, refraction, diffraction and interference, stationary waves, and the Doppler effect.
- 05
Vibrations and Sound
The wave nature of sound, characteristics of musical notes including frequency and intensity, resonance, the speed of sound, and acoustic applications.
- 06
Light
Reflection by mirrors, refraction and total internal reflection, lenses and image formation, the electromagnetic spectrum, and the wave nature of light including diffraction and interference.
- 07
Electricity
Static electricity and electric fields, potential difference and capacitance, current electricity, resistance and circuits, electromagnetism and induction, and domestic/applied electricity.
- 08
Modern Physics
The electron, thermionic and photoelectric emission, X-rays, the structure of the atom and nucleus, radioactivity, and nuclear energy through fission and fusion.
- 09
Option 1: Particle Physics
Extension option covering the development of models of the atom, fundamental forces and particles, antimatter, accelerators and the quark model of matter.
- 10
Option 2: Applied Electricity
Alternative extension option covering magnetic effects of currents, alternating current and devices, plus semiconductors and basic electronics including diodes and transistors.
03 · Where this subject applies
Where this subject applies
These pathways and regions are explicitly connected to the subject in the curriculum.
Levels and pathways
Higher Level
Higher Level — the more demanding level, with broader and deeper content and the H1–H8 grade scale.
Ordinary Level
Ordinary Level — the foundational level covering the core of the syllabus, graded O1–O8.
Regions
All registered regions
04 · Official sources
Official sources
The public sources below are referenced directly by this subject or by one of its topics.
This editorial selection points to the relevant official bodies. Always confirm current requirements, dates and exceptional arrangements with your school and the responsible authority.
2
Public references
IE · EuraStudy Guides
Place this subject inside the complete curriculum.
Open the curriculum guide to see every subject and topic, or continue to EuraStudy Summa to begin working with the material.