VCE Physics/Unit 4

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Description from the Study Design
A complex interplay exists between theory and experiment in generating models to explain natural phenomena including light. Wave theory has classically been used to explain phenomena related to light; however, continued exploration of  light  and  matter  has  revealed  the  particle-like  properties  of  light. On very  small  scales,  light  and  matter – which initially seem to be quite different – have been observed as having similar properties. In this unit, students explore the use of wave and particle theories to model the properties of light and matter. They examine  how  the  concept  of  the  wave  is  used  to  explain  the  nature  of  light  and  explore  its  limitations  in  describing  light  behaviour. Students further  investigate  light  by  using  a  particle  model  to  explain  its  behaviour. A wave model is also used to explain the behaviour of matter which enables students to consider the relationship between light  and  matter. Students learn  to  think  beyond  the  concepts  experienced  in  everyday  life  to  study  the physical world from a new perspective. Students design and undertake investigations involving at least two continuous independent variables. A student-designed practical investigation related to waves, fields or motion is undertaken either in Unit 3 or Unit 4, or across both Unit 3 and Unit 4, and is assessed in Unit 4, Outcome 3. The findings of the investigation are presented in a scientific poster format as outlined in the template on page 13.

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