Physics Textbook

Energy is a precious commodity. It keeps a nation alive. It runs industries, transport, and communication facilities. It provides us conveniences in daily living. The radio, television, light fixtures, stove, water pump and other devices, and appliances require energy to function.

The unifying theme of this module is energy—its many forms and the changes it undergoes. This module discusses the importance of energy in the different aspects of daily living. The content is divided into the following units:

Unit I, Energy and Society, discusses the different views of physics—as a discipline and its relation to the other science disciplines, the activities of physicists and how their work relate to the developments in science and technology, and how physics interrelates with technology and society.

Unit II, Energy in the Environment, starts with light, a form of energy that we are familiar with. The behavior of light as it interacts with materials is presented in the context of light and vision. Everyday situations are used to advantage to describe the properties of light. Nuclear radiation, a form of energy other than sunlight, is the other theme included in this unit. The discussion shows the benefits derived from and the environmental hazards of nuclear energy.

Unit III, Energy in the Home, focuses on the use of electrical energy in the household. Concepts are discussed with the circuitry in the house as the starting point. The transformation of electrical energy to other forms, electrical energy consumption, and how to use energy wisely are given emphasis. The benefits derived from and dangers posed by the use of electrical energy conclude the unit.

Unit IV, Energy and the Economy, gives importance to the transformation of other forms of energy to electrical energy as it describes electrical energy generation, transmission, and distribution. Electromagnetic forces and electromagnetic induction are the major concepts of the unit.

The module features simple laboratory activities requiring readily available materials. Some activities are investigatory. Others are verifications. Some are meant to guide you in analyzing abstract ideas or experimental data. Some activities may be done at home. Doing the activities will concretize or operationalize certain physics concepts to enhance your understanding of the theories involved. It will also help you acquire analytical skills and familiarity with the science processes, which in turn will help you in decision-making.

The questions and problems in the study guide will help you integrate the main ideas discussed in each chapter.

I hope that this module will help you become more aware of the relevance and importance of science, particularly physics, and technology in your everyday life.

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