Physics Part 1 - Quick Guide
Physics - Force and Pressure
Introduction
When an object is either pushed or a pulled is known as a force.
Motion, generated in an object, is because of an action of a force.
The applied force makes the table move in a given direction.
The strength of a force is commonly expressed by the magnitude.
Force also has direction; likewise, if the magnitude or direction changes, it directly affects the force.
If the force is applied in the direction opposite to the direction of motion, then it results in a decrease in the speed of the object.
If an object is in motion, then external force may change in the state or direction of motion of that object.
The state of motion of an object is explained by its speed and the direction of motion.
The state of ‘rest’ of an object is considered to be the zero speed, as −
An object cannot move by itself.
An object cannot change its speed by itself.
An object cannot change its direction by itself.
An object cannot change by itself.
A force may make an object move from rest.
A force may change the speed of a moving object.
A force may change the direction of a moving object.
A force may change the shape of an object.
The force caused by the action of muscles is known as the muscular force.
Some force, decreases the speed of a moving object, is known as ‘friction.’ E.g. moving wheel on road; once the source of force stops working, then wheel stops because of friction.
The force applied by a charged body on another charged or uncharged body is known as ‘electrostatic force.’
Objects or things that fall towards the earth, as earth pulls it towards itself; this force is known as the force of gravity or gravity.
The force of gravity is applicable on all objects. In fact, every object in this universe, irrespective of its size and shape, exerts some force on every other object. It happens only because of the ‘gravitational force.’
Pressure
The force, applied on a unit area of a surface is known as pressure (Pressure = force/area on which it acts).
If the area is smaller, then the pressure on a surface would be greater; e.g. this is the reason that the area of one end of a nail is pointed (to exert sufficient pressure) and other end is bigger (as shown in the image given below).
This envelop of air is known as the atmosphere that extends up to many kilometers above the surface of the earth.
The pressure exerted by the air is known as atmospheric pressure.
The pressure inside our bodies is exactly equal to the atmospheric pressure and annuls the pressure acting from outside (see the image given below).
Physics - Friction
Introduction
The force of friction is dependent on the irregularities of the surface; if it is greater, then the friction will be greater and if it is smooth, then the friction will be lesser.
Effectively, the friction is result of the interlocking of irregularities in the two surfaces.
If the two surfaces (in contact) are pressed harder, then the force of friction will increase.
On a frictionless surface, if an object starts moving, it would not stop ever; Without friction, it is not possible to construct a building.
Friction produces heat; when a matchstick is rubbed against the rough surface, it catches fire.
Substances Reducing Friction
The substances that reduce friction are known as lubricants. E.g. when oil, grease, or graphite is applied between the moving part of a machine, then it creates a thin layer; resultantly, moving surfaces do not directly rub against each other that ultimately reduces friction.
When a body rolls over the surface of another body, the resistance to its motion is known as the rolling friction. The rolling reduces the force of friction.
The frictional force exerted by fluids is known as drag.
The frictional force, on an object in a fluid, is dependent on its speed with respect to the fluid.
The frictional force depends on the shape of the respective object and also on the nature of the fluid.
Fluid friction is minimized by giving suitable shapes to the bodies moving in fluids.
Physics - Some Natural Phenomena
Introduction
Lightening, cyclone, earthquake, etc. are the natural phenomena.
Benjamin Franklin, an American scientist, showed that the lightning and the spark from clothes are essentially the same phenomena.
When a plastic comb is rubbed with dry hair, it acquires some charge and the object is known as charged objects.
When charges move, they constitute an electric current.
Some natural phenomena can cause large scale destruction of human life and property.
Lightning
The process of transferring of charge from a charged object to the earth is known as earthing.
When negative and positive charges meet, it produces streaks of bright light and sound and the process is known as an electric discharge.
The process of electric discharge also occurs between two or more clouds, or between clouds and the earth (as shown in the image given below).
During the lightning and the thunderstorm no open place is safe.
Electrical appliances such as computers, TVs, etc., should be unplugged; however, electrical lights can be left on, as they do not cause any harm.
The device, used to protect buildings from the effect of lightning, is known as Lightning Conductor.
A metallic rod, taller than the building, is fixed in the walls of the building from top to toes during its construction protects from thunderstorm (as shown in the image given below).
The metal columns used during the fixing of electrical wires and water pipes in the buildings also protect from the thunderstorm and lightning.
If a thunderstorm occurs there is also a possibility of lightning and cyclones.
Earthquakes
An earthquake is a sudden shaking or trembling of some region of the earth for a very short time.
An earthquake is normally caused by a disturbance originated inside the earth’s crust.
Earthquakes keep occurring almost all the time, all over the earth, but most of them are not even noticeable.
The major earthquakes are rare, but very much destructive.
The last major earthquake occurred in India on 8th October 2005 in Uri and Tangdhar towns of North Kashmir and before that a major earthquake occurred on 26th January 2001 in Bhuj, Gujarat.
The earthquakes mostly are caused by the movement of earth’s plates (as shown in the image below).
Earthquakes are also caused by volcanic eruption/activity, when a meteor hits the earth, or an underground nuclear explosion.
The power of an earthquake is expressed in terms of a magnitude and measured on a scale known as Richter scale (as shown in the image given below).
Physics - Motion
Introduction
Motion means change in position of an object in given period of time.
Motion, normally, is described in terms of displacement, velocity, acceleration, distance, time, and speed.
Motion Along a Straight Line
Motion along a straight line is the simplest form of motion.
Magnitude is the numerical value of a physical quantity.
The shortest distance, which is measured from the initial to the final position of an object is called as the ‘displacement.’
The magnitude of the displacement for a path of motion may be zero but the corresponding distance covered cannot be zero.
If an object travels equal distances in equal intervals of time, it is said to be in ‘uniform motion.’
If an object travels unequal distances in equal intervals of time, it is said to be in ‘non-uniform motion.’
Speed
The distance travelled by the object in unit time is known as the rate of motion or simply speed.
The SI unit of speed is meter per second (symbol m s–1 or m/s).
The average speed of an object can be obtained by dividing the total distance travelled by the total time taken: represented as
$$Average\:Speed = \frac{Total\:Distance\:Travelled}{Total\:Time\:Taken}$$
Velocity
If a quantity specifies the direction of motion along with its speed, it is known as velocity.
Velocity is the speed of a given object, which is moving in a defined direction.
Speed and velocity have the same measuring units, i.e., m s–1 or m/s.
$$Average\:Velocity = \frac{Initial\:Velocity\:+\:Final\:Velocity}{2}$$
Acceleration
$$Acceleration = \frac{Change\:in\:Velocity}{Time\:Taken}$$
Uniform Circular Motion
Physics - Force and Laws of Motion
Introduction
First Law of Motion
According to Galileo an object moves with a constant speed when no force acts on them.
According to Newton’s First Law of Motion, “an object remains in a state of rest or of uniform motion in a straight line unless compelled to change that state by an applied force.”
The tendency of uninterrupted objects to stay at rest or to keep moving (if in motion) with the same velocity is known as inertia.
Newton’s first law of motion is also popular as the law of inertia.
As shown in the image given above, when the playing card is flicked by the finger, the coin placed on it falls in the glass; it explains the law of inertia.
Therefore, inertia is a natural tendency of any object to resist a change in its state of motion or of rest.
Second Law of Motion
The second law of motion states that “the rate of change of momentum of an object is proportional to the applied unbalanced force in the direction of the force.”
The momentum (represented as p) of an object is defined as the product of its mass (represented as m) and velocity (represented as v).
Likewise, Momentum (m) = Mass (m) × Velocity (v).
Momentum possesses both the direction as well as magnitude.
The SI unit of momentum is represented as kilogram-meter per second (kg m s-1).
The second law of motion illustrates a method to measure the force, which is acting on an object as a product of its mass and acceleration.
Third Law of Motion
It is important to remembered that the action and reaction always act on two different objects.
It is important to remember that action and reaction forces are always equal in magnitude, but these forces may not produce accelerations of equal magnitudes because each force acts on a different object, which may have a different mass.
Conservation of Momentum
The conservation of momentum states that, in a given area, the amount of momentum remains constant.
The momentum is neither created nor destroyed; however, it can be changed through the action of forces (described by Newton's laws of motion).
The mass of an object multiplied by the velocity of the object is known as momentum.
Physics - Gravitation
Introduction
Universal Law of Gravitation
F = force of attraction between two the objects ‘A’ & ‘B’
M = mass of ‘A’
m = mass of ‘B’
d2 = the square of the distance between ‘A’ & ‘B’
G = is the constant of proportionality and is known as the universal gravitation constant.
The SI unit of G is N m2 kg–2. It is obtained by substituting the units of force, distance and mass (as given in the following equation −
$$G = \frac{Fd^2}{M \times m}$$
Significance of Universal Law of Gravitation
Free Fall
The acceleration, produces due to the earth’s gravitational force, is known as the acceleration due to the gravitational force of the earth (or acceleration due to gravity).
The acceleration produces due to the gravitational force is denoted by g.
As the radius of the earth increases towards the equator (from the poles) the value of ‘g’ becomes greater at the poles than at the equator.
The Value of g
$$g = G\frac{M}{R^2}$$
G = universal gravitational constant, which is = 6.7 × 10–11 N m2 kg-2
M = mass of the earth, which is = 6 × 1024 kg
R = radius of the earth, which is = 6.4 × 106 m
So,
$$g = \frac{6.7 \: \times 10^{-11} \: Nm^2 \: kg^{-2} \: \times \: 6 \: \times 10^{24} \: kg}{(6.4 \: \times 10^6 \: m)^2}$$
$=9.8 \: m \: s^{-2}$
Physics - Mass and Weight
Introduction
The mass remains same whether the object is on the earth, the moon, or even in outer space.
The force of attraction of the earth (due to gravitational force) on an object is called as the weight of the object.
Weight is denoted by English capital letter ‘W.’
Weight is calculated as −
$$W = m \: \times \: g$$
Where,
m is equal to mass of the object.
g is equal to the acceleration due to gravity.
The SI unit of weight is the same as that of force, i.e., newton (N).
Since, weight of an object is dependent on certain factors; therefore, weight is changeable (depending upon the place where it is), but mass of the same object remains constant irrespective of its location (where it is).
Thrust
The effects of forces of the same magnitude on different areas are different because the effect of thrust depends on the area on which it acts.
For example, if someone is standing on loose sandy surface, then the force, that is, the weight of his body is acting on an area equal to area of his feet. But when he lies down on the same surface, the same force acts on an area equal to the contact area of his whole body, which is larger than the area of his feet. Thus the effect of thrust on sandy surface is larger while standing than while lying.
Pressure
$$Pressure = \frac{Thrust}{Area}$$
The SI unit of pressure is known as pascal, symbolized as Pa.
The same force, if acting on a smaller area, exerts a larger pressure, but if acting on a larger area, exerts smaller pressure. Because of this reason - a nail has a pointed tip, knives have sharp edges, etc.
Buoyancy
The magnitude of the buoyant force depends on the density of the water/fluid.
The objects, which have the density lesser than that of water/liquid float on the water/liquid; whereas, the objects, which have the density greater than that of water/liquid sink in the water/liquid.
Mass of a unit volume is known as density.
Archimedes’ Principle
Physics - Work and Energy
Introduction
When acting (applying force), there is a displacement of the point of application in the direction of the force, is known as work.
The term work was first introduced by the French mathematician GaspardGustave Coriolis in 1826.
Work done by a force acting on the object is equal to the magnitude of the force multiplied by the distance moved in the direction of the force and it is calculated as −
Work done (W) = Force (F) × Displacement (s)
Work has the only magnitude and no direction.
The SI unit of work is the joule (J).
Energy
Energy can be converted in form, but cannot be created or destroyed. For example, producing electric energy from solar energy, etc.
The object which does the work loses energy and the object on which the work is done gains energy.
Further, the object that possesses energy can exert a force on another object to transfer energy from former to later.
The energy possessed by an object is therefore measured in terms of its capacity of doing work.
The SI unit of energy is joule (J).
Forms of Energy
Potential Energy
The energy, possessed by a body by virtue of its position relative to others, is known as Potential energy.
So, potential energy is the stored energy in an object. For example, gravitational potential energy, elastic potential energy, electrical potential energy, etc.
The SI unit of potential energy is joule (J).
The term potential energy was introduced by Scottish engineer and physicist William Rankine.
Kinetic Energy
Heat Energy
Chemical Energy
The potential of a chemical substance to experience a transformation through a chemical reaction and transform other chemical substances is known as chemical energy. E.g. Breaking or making of chemical bonds, batteries, etc.
The chemical energy of a (chemical) substance can be converted to other forms of energy by a chemical reaction. E.g., green plants convert solar energy to chemical energy (commonly of oxygen) by the process of photosynthesis.
Electrical Energy
The energy, derived from electric potential energy or kinetic energy, is known as electrical energy.
Electricity is normally produced by electromechanical generators at a power station.
The electromechanical generators primarily are driven by heat engines fueled by the kinetic energy of flowing water and wind.
The electromechanical generators are also driven by heat engines fueled by chemical combustion or nuclear fission.
Light Energy
Law of Conservation of Energy
Law of conservation of energy states that energy can neither be created nor be destroyed; however, it can be only transformed from one form to another.
According to the law of conservation of energy, the total energy before and after the transformation remains the same.
The law of conservation of energy remains valid in all conditions and locations and for all kinds of transformations.
Physics - Light
Introduction
The fact is – our eyes alone cannot see any object until light helps.
The light may be emitted by the object, or may have been reflected by it.
Laws of Reflection
The light ray, which strikes a surface, is known as the incident ray.
The incident ray that returns back from the surface is known as the reflected ray (as shown in the image given below).
When all the parallel rays reflected from a plane surface are not necessarily parallel and the reflection is known as diffused or irregular reflection.
Almost every object that we see around is visible because of the reflected light.
Some objects generate their own light, such as the sun, electric lamp, fire, flame of a candle, etc. and make themselves visible.
Splitting of light into its different colors is known as dispersion of light (as shown in the image given below).
Human Eyes
The dark muscular structure known as iris.
The size of the pupil (pupil is small opening in iris) is controlled by the iris.
It is the iris that gives eye the distinctive color.
Lens is found behind the pupil of the eye (see the image given above).
The lens focuses light on the back of the eye, which is known as retina.
Retina contains several nerve cells; based on their features, they are divided into two categories: i.e.
The impression of an image (on retina) does not disappear immediately rather persists there for about 1/16th of a second; therefore, if still images of a moving object are flashed on the retina at a rate faster than 16 per second, then the eye sees this object as moving.
The minimum distance at which the eye can see an object distinctly varies with growing age.
The most comfortable distance at which a normal eye can read is about 25 cm.
Braille System
The most popular and accepted resource for the visually challenged people is known as Braille.
Braille system is developed for the visually challenged people; they can learn the Braille system by beginning with letters, then special characters, and letter combinations.
Louis Braille, a visually challenged person, developed a system of learning especially for the visually challenged persons; and hence, the system is named after his name ‘Braille.’
Physics - Reflection and Refraction
Introduction
Reflection of light
The throwing back by a body or surface of light without absorbing it, is known as reflection of light.
A highly polished surface, such as a mirror or other smooth and plane surface, reflects most of the light falling on it.
Laws of Reflection of Light
Following are the significant laws of reflection −
The angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection, and
The incident ray, the normal to the mirror at the point of incidence and the reflected ray, all lie in the same plane.
The laws of reflection described above are applicable to all sorts of reflecting surfaces including spherical surfaces.
Image formed by a plane mirror is always virtual and erect.
Spherical Mirror
The spherical mirror, whose reflecting surface is curved inwards (as shown in the image given below), i.e. face towards the center of the sphere, is known as concave mirror.
The center of the reflecting surface of a spherical mirror is a point known as pole represented by English letter ‘P.’
The reflecting surface of a spherical mirror forms a part of a sphere, which has a center, known as the center of curvature represented by English letter ‘C.’
Remember, the center of curvature is not a part of the mirror, but rather it lies outside the reflecting surface.
In case of concave mirror, the center of curvature lies in front of it.
In case of convex mirror, the center of curvature lies behind the mirror.
The radius of the sphere of which, the reflecting surface of a spherical mirror forms a part, is known as the radius of curvature of the mirror and represented by the English letter ‘R.’
Remember, the distance pole (P) and center of curvature (C) is equal to the radius of curvature.
The imaginary straight line, passing through the pole and the center of curvature of a spherical mirror, is known as the principal axis (see the image given below).
All the reflecting rays meeting/intersecting at a point on the principal axis of the mirror; this point is known as principal focus of the concave mirror. It is represented by English letter ‘F’ (see the image given below).
On the other hand, in case of convex mirror, the reflected rays appear to come from a point on the principal axis, known as the principal focus (F) (see the image given below).
The distance between the pole (P) and the principal focus (F) of a spherical mirror is known as the focal length and it is represented by the English letter ‘f’ (see the image given above).
The diameter of the reflecting surface of spherical mirror is known as its aperture.
Images Formed by Spherical Mirrors
Introduction
Drawing the ray diagrams is an ideal way to illustrate the formation of images by spherical mirrors.
The intersection of at least two reflected rays give the correct position of image of the point object.
The following table illustrates the image formed by a concave mirror for different positions of the given object −
| Position of Object |
Position of Image |
Size of Image |
Nature of Image |
Image |
| At infinity |
At the focus F |
Highly diminished, pointsized |
Real and inverted |
 |
| Beyond C |
B/w F and C |
Diminished |
Real and inverted |
 |
| At C |
At C |
Same size |
Real and inverted |
 |
| B/w C and F |
Beyond C |
Enlarged |
Real and inverted |
 |
| At F |
At infinity |
Highly enlarge |
Real and inverted |
 |
| B/w P and F |
Behind the mirror |
Enlarged |
Virtual and erect |
 |
Uses of Concave Mirror
In order to get powerful parallel beams of light, concave mirrors are universally used in torches, search-lights, and vehicles headlights.
Concave mirror is also used in barber’s saloon, as it gives larger view.
Concave mirror is also used by dentists, to see the large images of the teeth of patients.
Large concave mirrors are used to concentrate sunlight to produce maximum heat in the solar furnaces.
Image formation by a Convex Mirror
| Position of Object |
Position of Image |
Size of Image |
Nature of Image |
Image |
| At infinity |
At the focus F, behind the mirror |
Highly diminishe d, point sized |
Virtual and erect |
 |
| B/w infinity and pole of the mirror |
B/w P and F, behind the mirror |
Diminishe d |
Virtual and erect |
 |
Uses of Convex Mirrors
In all vehicles, convex mirrors are universally used as rear-view (wing) mirrors.
In vehicles, convex mirrors are preferred, as they give though diminished, but an erect image.
Mirror Formula
The formula is expressed as:
$$\frac{1}{v} + \frac{1}{u} = \frac{1}{f}$$
Mirror formula expresses the relationships among the object-distance (i.e. u), image-distance (i.e. v), and focal length (i.e. f) of a spherical mirror.
Physics - Refraction of Light
Introduction
Light, normally, travel along the straight-line paths in a transparent medium.
When light is travelling obliquely from one medium to another, then the direction of propagation of light changes in the second medium, the phenomenon is known as refraction of light.
In the image (a) given below, because of refraction in a glass of water, the image is flipped.
Laws of Refraction of Light
The Refractive Index
In a given pair of media, the extent of the change in direction is expressed in terms of the refractive index.
For a given pair of media, the value of the refractive index, depends upon the speed of light in the two media.
The aptitude of a medium to refract light can be also expressed in terms of its optical density.
The following table illustrates the absolute refractive index of some significant material media −
| Material Medium |
Refractive Index |
| Air |
1.0003 |
| Ice |
1.31 |
| Water |
1.33 |
| Alcohol |
1.36 |
| Kerosene |
1.44 |
| Fused Quartz |
1.46 |
| Turpentine Oil |
1.47 |
| Rock Salt |
1.54 |
| Diamond |
2.42 |
Physics - Spherical Lenses
Introduction
Convex Lens
The middle part of this lens is bulged (thicker) and at the both ends, it is narrow.
Convex lens converges the light rays; therefore, it is also known as converging lens.
Concave Lens
The middle part of this lens is narrow (curved inwards) and the both the edges are thicker.
Concave lens diverges the light rays; therefore, it is also known as diverging lens.
A lens, either a concave or a convex, has two spherical surfaces and each of these surfaces forms a part of the sphere. The centers of these spheres are known as centers of curvature, represented by English letter ‘C.’
As there are two centers of curvature, therefore, represented as ‘C1’ and ‘C2.’
An imaginary straight line, passing through both the centers of curvature of a lens, is known as principal axis.
Optical center is the central point of a lens. It is represented by ‘O.’
An aperture is the actual diameter of the circular outline of a spherical lens.
Principal focus of lens is represented by ‘F.’
A lens has usually two foci represented as F1 and F2.
Focal length is the distance between the principal focus and the optical center of a lens. It is represented by ‘f.’
The following table illustrates, the nature and position of images formed by a convex lens −
| Position of Object |
Position of Image |
Size of Image |
Nature of Image |
Image |
| At infinity |
At the focus F2 |
Highly diminished, pointsized |
Real and inverted |
 |
| Beyond 2F1 |
B/w F2 and 2F2 |
Diminished |
Real and inverted |
 |
| At 2F1 |
At 2F2 |
Same size |
Real and inverted |
 |
| B/w F1 & 2F1 |
Beyond 2F2 |
Enlarged |
Real and inverted |
 |
| At focus F1 |
At infinity |
Infinitely large or highly enlarged |
Real & inverte d |
 |
| B/w focus F1 & optical center O |
On the same side of the lens as the object |
Enlarged |
Virtual and erect |
 |
| Position of Object |
Position of Image |
Relative Size of Image |
Nature of Image |
Image |
| At infinity |
At the focus F1 |
Highly diminishe d, pointsized |
Virtual and erect |
 |
| B/w infinity & optical center O of the lens |
B/w F1 & optical center O |
Diminishe d |
Virtual and erect |
 |
Lens Formula
The formula is expressed as −
$$\frac{1}{v} - \frac{1}{u} = \frac{1}{f}$$
Lens formula expresses the relationships among the object-distance (i.e. u), image-distance (i.e. v), and focal length (i.e. f) of a lens.
The Human Eye and The Colorful World
Introduction
Human Eye
The human eye is very much similar to a camera.
The lens system of an eye forms an image on a light-sensitive screen known as the retina (see the image given below).
Light enters the eye through a thin membrane known as the cornea.
With a diameter of about 2.3 cm, the eyeball is almost spherical in shape.
Behind the cornea, there is a structure, known as iris (see the image given above).
Iris is a dark muscular diaphragm; it has major function to control the size of the pupil.
The pupil has major function to control and regulate the amount of light entering the eye.
The lens of eye forms an inverted real image of an object on the retina.
Power of Accommodation
The eye lens, which is composed of a fibrous, jelly-like material, has an important role; further, the change in the curvature of the eye lens also change the focal length.
When the muscles are in relax state, the lens shrinks and becomes thin; therefore, its focal length increases in this position and enables us to see the distant objects clearly.
On the other hand, when you look at an object closer to your eye, the ciliary muscles contract; resultantly, the curvature of the eye lens increases and the eye lens becomes thicker. In such a condition, the focal length of the eye lens decreases, which enables us to see nearby objects clearly.
Such ability of the eye lens to adjust its focal length is known as accommodation.
Furthermore, the focal length of the eye lens cannot be decreased below a certain (minimum) limit. This is the reason that we cannot read the book kept very close to our eyes rather we have to maintain a certain distance.
To see an object comfortably and clearly, the object must be kept at the distance of (about) 25 cm from the eyes.
However, there is no limit of the farthest point; a human eye can see objects of infinity, e.g. moon, stars, etc.
Defects of Vision and Their Correction
When the crystalline lens of an eye (normally at old age), becomes milky and cloudy, it is known as cataract.
Cataract causes partial or complete loss of vision; however, it can be treated through a cataract surgery.
Following are the three common refractive defects of vision −
Let’s discuss each them in brief:
Myopia
Myopia is also known as near-sightedness.
A person suffering from myopia can see nearby objects clearly, but cannot see distant objects clearly.
As shown in the image given above, in a myopic eye, the image of a distant object is formed in front of the retina instead of at the retina.
Myopia may arise because of −
This defect can be corrected by using a concave lens of suitable power.
As shown in the image given above, using of concave lens of suitable power, brings the image back on to the retina; likewise, the defect is corrected.
Hypermetropia
Hypermetropia is also known as far-sightedness.
A person suffering from hypermetropia can see the distant objects clearly, but cannot see the nearby objects clearly.
In such a case, as shown in the image given below, the near point, is farther away from the normal near point (i.e. 25 cm).
Hypermetropia may arise because of
The focal length of the eye lens – when it is too long, or
The eyeball has become too small.
Hypermetropia can be corrected by using a convex lens of appropriate power.
As shown in the image given above, eye-glasses with converging lenses provide the additional focusing power that helps in forming the image on the retina.
Presbyopia
Presbyopia, an eye problem, arises because of the gradual weakening of the ciliary muscles and diminishing flexibility of the eye lens.
Some people suffer from both myopia and hypermetropia; such kind of eye defect is treated by using bifocal lenses.
A common type of bi-focal lenses consists of both the concave and the convex lenses.
Physics - Refraction of Light Through a Prism
Introduction
The unique shape of the prism makes the emergent ray bend at an angle to the direction of the incident ray and this angle is known as the angle of deviation.
The angle between two lateral faces of a prism is known as the angle of the prism.
Dispersion of White Light by a Glass Prism
As shown in the image given above, the prism has split the incident white light into a band of colors.
The various colors those are seen through prism are arranged in order; this order is named as ‘VIBGYOR.’
VIBGYOR is constituted after taking first letter of all the following colors −
V − Violet
I − Indigo
B − Blue
G − Green
Y − Yellow
O − Orange
R − Red
The band of the colored components of a light beam is known as spectrum and VIBGYOR is the sequence of colors that you can see in the above image.
The splitting of light into different colors is known as dispersion.
All the colors have different bending angles in respect to the incident ray; the red light bends list (can be seen at the top) whereas the violet bends the most (see the image given above).
Because of having different bending angles, all the colors become distinct.
Newton was the first scientist who used a glass prism to obtain the spectrum of sunlight and he concluded that the sunlight is made up of seven colors.
A rainbow is a natural spectrum that most likely appears in the sky after a rain shower (see the image given below).
Rainbow after the rain is normally result of dispersion of sunlight by the tiny water droplets.
The tiny water droplets present in the atmosphere act like small prisms.
A rainbow always forms in the opposite direction of the Sun.
Atmospheric Refraction
The deviation of light rays from a straight path in the atmosphere (normally because of variation in air density) is known as atmospheric refraction.
Atmospheric refraction nearby the ground produces mirages, which means, the distance objects appear elevated or lowered, to shimmer or ripple, stretched or shortened, etc.
In the night, the stars appear twinkling, it is also because of the atmospheric refraction.
Because of the atmospheric refraction, the Sun remains visible and about 2 minutes after the actual sunset and about 2 minutes before the actual sunrise (see the image given below).
Tyndall Effect
The earth’s atmosphere is largely constituted of a heterogeneous mixture, such as tiny water droplets, suspended particles of dust, smoke, and molecules of air. When a beam of light strikes through such fine particles, the path of the beam gets scattered. The phenomenon of scattering of light by the colloidal particles (of the atmosphere) gives rise to Tyndall effect.
The scattering of light makes the particles visible in the atmosphere.
Very fine particles scatter largely blue light whereas particles of larger size scatter the light, which has longer wavelengths.
The red light has a wavelength (about) 1.8 times larger than the blue light.
Physics - Electricity
Introduction
If the electric charge flows through a conductor, such as a metallic wire, it is known as the electric current in the conductor.
A continuous and closed path of an electric current is known as an electric circuit (as shown in the image given below) −
In an electric circuit, usually, the direction of electric current (known as positive charges), is considered as opposite to the direction of the flow of electrons, which are considered as negative charges.
The SI unit of electric charge is coulomb (C).
Coulomb is equivalent to the charge contained in closely 6 × 1018 electrons.
The electric current is expressed by a unit known as an ampere (A).
It was named after the French scientist Andre-Marie Ampere.
One ampere constitutes by the flow of one coulomb of charge per second, i.e., 1 A = 1 C/1 s.
The instrument that measures electric current in a circuit is known as ammeter.
The electric current flows in the circuit starting from the positive terminal to the negative terminal of the cell through the bulb and ammeter.
Electric Potential and Potential Difference
The electrons of a conductor move only if there is a difference of electric pressure, known as the potential difference.
The chemical action within a cell produces the potential difference across the terminals of the cell. Further, when this cell is linked to a conducting circuit element, the potential difference sets the charges in motion (in the conductor) and generates an electric current.
Alessandro Volta (1745–1827), an Italian physicist, first noticed the electric potential difference; therefore, the SI unit of electric potential difference is given volt (V).
The instrument that measures the potential difference is known as the voltmeter.
Circuit Diagram
Some defined symbols are used to illustrate the most commonly used electrical components in circuit diagrams.
The following table describes some of the symbols commonly used to define the electric components −
| Components |
Symbols |
| An electric cell |
 |
| A battery or combination of cells |
 |
| Plug key or switch (Open) |
 |
| Plug key or switch (closed) |
 |
| A wire joint |
 |
| Wires crossing without joining |
 |
| Electric bulb |
 |
| A resistor of resistance R |
 |
| Variable resistance or rheostat |
 |
| Ammeter |
 |
| Voltmeter |
 |
Ohm’s Law
A German physicist, Georg Simon Ohm in 1827, stated that “The electric current flowing through a metallic wire is directly proportional to the potential difference (V), across its ends provided its temperature remains the same.”
Electric Power
Physics - Chemical Effects of Electric Current
Introduction
Most of the liquids that conduct electricity belong to solutions of acids, bases and salts.
Some liquids are good conductors and some are poor conductors of electricity.
The passage of an electric current through a conducting liquid normally causes chemical reactions and the resulting effects of this reaction are known as chemical effects of currents.
The process of depositing a layer of any desired metal on another material by means of electricity is known as electroplating.
Physics - Magnetic Effects of Electric Current
Introduction
The electricity and magnetism are linked to each other and it is proved when the electric current passes through the copper wire, it produces a magnetic effect.
The electromagnetic effects first time noticed by Hans Christian Oersted.
Magnetic Field
Magnetic field is a quantity, which has both magnitude and direction.
The direction of a magnetic field is usually taken to be the direction in which, a north pole of the compass needle moves inside it.
It is the convention that the field lines emerge from north pole and merge at the south pole (see the image given above).
No two field-lines of a magnet bar are found to cross each other. If it happens, then it means that at the point of intersection, the compass needle would point towards two directions, which is simply not possible.
The magnitude of the magnetic field (produced by an electric current) at a given point increases with the increase of current through the wire.
Right-Hand Thumb Rule
Fleming’s Left-Hand Rule
Fleming’s left-hand rule states that “Stretch the thumb, forefinger and middle finger of your left hand such that they are mutually perpendicular (as shown in the image given below). If the first finger points in the direction of magnetic field and the second finger in the direction of current, then the thumb will point in the direction of motion or the force acting on the conductor.”
Human body also produces magnetic field; however, it is very weak and about one-billionth of the earth’s magnetic field.
Heart and brain are the two main organs in the human body where the magnetic field has been produced.
The magnetic field inside the human body forms the basis of getting the images of different parts of the body.
The technique used to get the image of body part is known as the Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
Physics - Electric Motor
Introduction
An electric motor is a rotating device, which is made to convert electrical energy into mechanical energy.
We use dozens of devices in which electric motors are used, such as, refrigerators, mixers, fans, washing machines, computers, etc.
The commercial and high power motors use −
An electromagnet in place of a permanent magnet.
Large number of turns of the conducting wire in the electric current carrying coil; and
A soft iron core on which the coil is properly wound.
The soft iron core (wound with the coil) and the coils, are known as an armature.
Armature has main function to enhance the power of the motor.
Electromagnetic Induction
In 1831, Michael Faraday, an English physicist, had discovered that a moving magnet can be used to generate electric currents.
As shown in the image given above that the moving magnet towards a coil sets up current in the coil circuit, which is indicated and read by deflection in the galvanometer needle.
Because of the changing magnetic field, Electromagnetic induction produces an electromotive force (emf) in a conductor.
A galvanometer is an instrument that is used to detect the presence of a current in a circuit.
Fleming’s Right-Hand Rule
Fleming’s right-hand rule states that “Stretch the thumb, forefinger and middle finger of right hand so that they are perpendicular to each other (see the image given below). If the forefinger indicates the direction of the magnetic field and the thumb shows the direction of motion of conductor, then the middle finger will show the direction of induced current. This simple rule is called Fleming’s right-hand rule.”
Electric Generator
Types of Electric Current
Following are the two types of electric current −
The difference between the alternating current and direct current is - the alternating current keeps reversing its direction periodically; whereas, the direct current always flows in one direction.
Most of the electric power stations produce alternating current.
In hour houses, there are different electric appliances, most of run on alternating current.
In our house wiring, fuse is the most important safety device.
Fuse is used to protect the circuits that may damage due to short-circuiting or overloading of the circuits.
Physics - Source of Energy
Introduction
Energy, which is neither created nor destroyed, has many sources; significant of them are −
Muscular energy − Most of the organisms have it (by default); this is the reason that we have the capacity to do physical works.
Electrical energy − Most of the electrical appliances in our home run on electrical energy.
Chemical energy − chemical energy is normally used in cooking, running vehicles, etc.
Based on the energy reserves, energy is categorized as −
Conventional Source of Energy − The sources of energy, which is found in limited amount (and exhaustible), are known as conventional source of energy. E.g. fossil fuels (such as coal, petroleum, etc.).
Non-Convention Source of Energy − It is also known as renewable source of energy. E.g. wind energy, solar energy, geo-thermal energy, etc.
Thermal Power Plant
Hydro Power Plants
Dams are purposefully constructed to electricity through water.
However, construction of big dams is threatful for the respective ecosystem; therefore, big dams are allowed to be constructed only in particular geographic location.
Bio Mass Fuel
Bio-gas is an excellent source of fuel, as it contains about 75% methane.
Bio-gas burns without smoke and leaves no residue like ash in wood.
Wind Energy
The rotatory motion of the windmill is set to run the turbine that ultimately generates electric energy.
In Denmark, more than 25% of electricity (of total requirements) are generated through a vast network of windmills; therefore, it is known as ‘country of winds.’
However, in terms of total output, Germany is ranked first.
India has fifth position in terms of harnessing wind energy for the production of electricity.
With the capacity of 380 MW, Kanyakumari (Tamil Nadu), is the largest wind energy farm in India.
Wind energy is an environment-friendly technology and efficient source of renewable energy.
However, one of the biggest limitations with the wind energy is – it cannot be set up anywhere, but rather it can be set up in the region where we can get the wind blowing consistently at the speed (at least) 15 km/hour.
Solar Energy
The energy produced through the solar rays, is known as solar energy.
Such kind of energy has very low maintenance cost.
It can be used on small scale (such as only lit a tube light with fan) as well as to run a big industry, as it has a great potential.
However, the technology is still very costly; therefore, it is difficult to make widespread.
Tidal Energy
Wave Energy
Ocean Thermal Energy
Geothermal Energy
The electric energy, produced from the natural hot springs, is known as geothermal energy. Manikarn, Himachal Pradesh, is the site of geothermal energy in India.
Nuclear Energy
The energy, released by the process of nuclear fission or fusion, is known as nuclear energy.
During the process of nuclear reactions, the nuclear energy is released, which is used to generate heat; this heat energy is then used in steam turbines to produce electricity.
Physics - Sound Part I
Introduction
The to and fro or back and forth motion of an object is known as vibration. Therefore, when a tightly stretched band is plucked, it vibrates and when it vibrates, it produces sound.
In some cases, vibration can be easily observed, but in most of the cases, their amplitude is so small that it is very difficult to see them with naked eye; however, their vibration can be easily felt in the form of sound. E.g. Tabla, Harmonium, Flute, Sitar, etc.
In human beings, the sound is produced by the larynx (also known as voice box).
One can feel the vibration by keeping fingers on the throat; this is the part that is known as the voice box.
Sound Produced By Human Beings
Two vocal cords (as shown in the given image), are stretched across the voice box (or larynx) in such a way that it leaves a narrow slit between them for the passage of air; this is how sound is produced.
The vocal cords in men are about 20 mm long.
The vocal cords in women are about 15 mm long and children’s vocal cords are even more shorter; this is the reason that men, women, and children have different voice.
Human Ears
The part through which we hear is known as ear.
The shape of the outer part of the ear is similar to a funnel; therefore, when sound enters in it, it keeps going down through a canal to the end. At the end, there is a thin membrane stretched tightly; it is known as the eardrum.
The eardrum is very similar to a stretched rubber sheet and sound vibrations make the eardrum vibrate.
The eardrum sends vibrations to the inner ear and from there, the signal goes to the brain; this is how we hear the sound clearly.
Frequency of A Vibration
The vibration motion is known as oscillatory motion.
The number of oscillations per second is known the frequency of oscillation and the frequency is expressed in hertz (Hz).
Amplitude and frequency are the two significant features of any sound.
The loudness of sound depends on its amplitude; if amplitude is higher, then the sound is louder and if the amplitude is lesser, then the sound is feeble.
The loudness of sound is expressed in a unit and it is expressed in decibel (dB).
The following table illustrates the loudness of sound generated from various sources −
| Source of Sound |
Loudness of Sound |
| Normal breathing |
10 dB |
| Soft whisper (at 5m) |
30 dB |
| Normal conversation |
60 dB |
| Busy traffic |
70 dB |
| Average factory |
80 dB |
The frequencies of sound less than about 20 vibrations per second (i.e. 20 Hz) cannot be perceived by the human ear.
The frequencies of sound higher than about 20,000 vibrations per second (i.e. 20 kHz) cannot be perceived by the human ear.
For a human ear, the range of audible frequencies roughly range between 20 and 20,000 Hz.
Some of the animals can hear the sounds of frequencies higher than 20,000 Hz, e.g. dogs.
Noise and Pollution
Unpleasant sounds are called noise.
Presence of excessive or annoying sounds in the environment is called noise pollution.
Noise pollution may cause many health related problems. Such as Lack of sleep, hypertension (high blood pressure), anxiety, impairment of hearing, etc.
Plantation on the roadside and other places especially in the city region and industrial area can effectively reduce the noise pollution.
Physics - Sound Part II
Introduction
Sound can be produce in number of ways, such as, by plucking, scratching, rubbing, blowing or shaking different objects.
The sound of the human voice is produced because of the vibrations in the vocal cords.
Sound waves are typically characterized by the motion/vibration of particles in the medium and hence known as mechanical waves.
Sound waves oscillate back and forth on their position; hence, they are known as longitudinal waves.
Propagation of Sound
The substance or object through which sound is transmitted is known as medium.
Sound moves through a medium from the point of the generation to the listener; the sound medium could be solid, liquid, or gas.
However, sound cannot travel through a vacuum medium.
The particles (of gas, liquid, or solid) do not travel all the way from the vibrating object to the ear, but rather when the object vibrates, it sets the particles of the medium around it vibrating and so on and so forth.
In other words, the particles of the medium do not travel/move forward, but rather the disturbance is carried forward through one vibrating particle to another.
When vibrating particles move forward, they push and compress the air in front of it and create a region of high pressure known as compression (see the image given below).
Further, when the vibrating particles move backwards, it creates a region of low pressure known as rarefaction (R) (see the image given above).
As the particles move back and forth rapidly, a series of compressions (high pressure zone) and rarefactions (low pressure zone) is created in the air; likewise, the sound wave propagates through the medium.
As shown in the image given above, the lower portion (valley) of the curve is known as trough and the upper portion (peak) is known as crest.
The distance between two consecutive compressions or two consecutive rarefactions is known as the wavelength.
Wavelength is usually represented by the Greek letter lambda (λ) and its SI unit is meter (m).
The number of the compressions or rarefactions that counted per unit time is known as frequency of the sound wave.
Frequency of the sound wave is commonly represented by ν (Greek letter, nu).
The SI unit of frequency of the sound wave is hertz (Hz).
The sensation of a frequency that we sense/listen is usually referred as the pitch of a sound.
The faster the vibration of the sound source, the higher is the frequency and so the higher is the pitch (see the image given below).
Likewise, a high pitch sound has more number of compressions and rarefactions passing the fixed point per unit time.
The lower the vibration of the sound source, the lesser is the frequency and so the lesser is the pitch (see the image given below).
Likewise, a lower pitch sound has less number of compressions and rarefactions passing the fixed point per unit time.
The magnitude of the maximum disturbance in the given medium on either side of the mean value is known as the amplitude of the sound wave.
Amplitude is commonly represented by the letter A.
The softness or loudness of a sound is fundamentally determined by its amplitude.
A sound of single frequency is known as tone.
The sound, which is created by mixing of several harmonious frequencies, is known as note.
Note is pleasant in listening.
Physics - Speed of Sound in Different Media
Introduction
The speed of sound depends on the type and properties of the medium through which it is traveling.
The speed of sound in a particular medium depends on temperature and pressure of that medium.
The speed of sound decreases when it passes from solid to gaseous state of a given medium.
In any medium, if the temperature increases, the speed of sound also increases and vice versa.
For example, the speed of sound in air at 00C is 331 m s–1 and at 220C it is 344 m s–1.
The following table illustrates the speed of sound in different media at 250 C −
| State |
Substance |
Speed in m/s |
| Solids |
Aluminum |
6420 |
| Nickel |
6040 |
| Steel |
5960 |
| Iron |
5950 |
| Brass |
4700 |
| Glass |
3980 |
Liquid |
Sea Water |
1531 |
| Distilled Water |
1498 |
| Ethanol |
1207 |
| Methanol |
1103 |
Gases |
Hydrogen |
1284 |
| Helium |
965 |
| Air |
346 |
| Oxygen |
316 |
| Sulphur Dioxide |
213 |
Sonic Boom
When the speed of any object surpasses the speed of sound waves, the speed of respective object is known as supersonic speed. For example, the speed of bullets, jet aircrafts, etc.
When a sound producing source itself moves with a speed higher than that of the sound, it produces the shock waves in air.
The shock waves carry a large amount of energy, which causes air pressure variation in its immediate environment.
The shock waves produce a very sharp and loud sound, which is known as sonic boom.
Reflection of Sound
Echo
If you shout or clap in a (especially) mountains region, after a while, you will hear the same sound, it is known as echo.
The sensation of sound continues in our brain for about 0.1 s; therefore, to hear a distinct echo sound, the time interval between the original sound and the reflected sound must be at least 0.1s.
To hear the distinct echo sound, the minimum distance of the obstacle from the source of sound must be 17.2 m. However, this distance is variable, as depends on temperature.
Reverberation
The repeated reflection that results in the persistence of sound waves is known as reverberation. E.g. in a big hall (especially, an auditorium), the excessive reverberation can be heard.
Usually, the ceilings of concert or movie halls are given curved shape so that the sound waves after reflection reach all the corners of the hall (see the image given below).
Range of Audible Sound
The audible range of sound for the human beings varies between 20 Hz to 20000 Hz.
However, as people grow older their ears gradually become less sensitive to higher the sound frequencies.
The sounds of frequencies less than 20 Hz are known as infrasonic sound or infrasound.
Whales, rhinoceroses, and elephants produce sound in the infrasound range.
The sound of frequencies higher than 20 kHz are known as ultrasonic sound or ultrasound.
Ultrasound technology is used extensively in different industries and for the medical purposes.
Dolphins, bats, and porpoises produce ultrasound sound.
Hearing Aid
SONAR
Physics - The Solar System
Introduction
The Sun and all the celestial bodies which revolve around it (the sun) are known as the solar system.
The solar system consists of a large number of bodies including planets, comets, asteroids, and meteors.
There are eight planets; they are arranged in their order of distance from the Sun as: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune (see the image given below).
The first four planets, Mercury, Venus, Earth and Mars, are known as ‘inner planets.’
Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune are much farther off from the sun and known as ‘outer planet.’
The Sun
The Sun is the nearest star from the earth.
The Sun is about 150,000,000 kilometers (150 million km) away from the Earth.
The Sun is the source of almost all energy available on the Earth.
After sun, Alpha Centauri, is the nearest star from the earth.
Light year is the distance travelled by light in one year.
The speed of light is about 300,000 km per second.
The Planets
There are eight planets that keep changing their positions with respect to the stars.
The planets have definite paths in which they revolve around the Sun.
The path of the planet is known as an orbit (see the image given above).
The time taken by a planet to complete one revolution is known as its period of revolution.
The time period of revolution increases with the distance of the planet increases from the sun.
All planet also rotates on its own axis, which is known as its rotation period.
A celestial body revolving around the planet is known as satellite or moon.
The planet mercury is smallest and nearest to the Sun.
Mercury has no satellite of its own.
Venus is the nearest planet to the earth.
Venus is the brightest planet.
Venus appears in the eastern sky before sunrise and appears in the western sky after sunset; therefore, it is also known as morning or an evening star.
Venus has no moon/satellite.
Venus rotates from east to west.
From space, earth appears blue-green due to reflection of light from water and landmass accordingly.
The Earth has one moon.
Mars appears somewhat reddish and, hence, known as the red planet.
Mars has two natural satellites.
Jupiter is the largest planet of the solar system.
Jupiter is about 318 times heavier than that of the Earth.
Saturn appears yellowish in color.
Saturn has rings around it.
Saturn is the least dense among all the planets (even water is denser than Saturn).
Like Venus, Uranus also rotates from east to west.
The most significant feature of Uranus is that it has highly tilted rotational axis.
There is a large gap between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter; it is filled with some objects known as ‘asteroids’ and this region is known as asteroid belt (see the image given below).
Halley’s comet appears after (nearly) every 76 years; last seen in 1986.
A meteor is typically a small object that occasionally enters the earth’s atmosphere.
Meteors are commonly known as shooting stars.
Physics - Stars and The Solar System
Introduction
The Moon
The moon is visible in different shape at different point of time; it happens because of the sunlight falling on it and subsequently gets reflected towards the earth.
The various shapes of the bright part of the moon as seen at different point of time are known as phases of the moon (as shown in the image given below).
For the first time, the American astronaut, Neil Armstrong, landed on the moon on July 21, 1969.
The moon’s surface is dusty and barren and have many craters of different sizes (as shown in the image given below).
The Stars
From the earth, stars are millions of times farther away than the Sun.
The stars forming a group that has a distinguishable shape is known as constellation.
The shapes of many of the constellations resemble with familiar objects (as shown in the image given below).
Orion is a recognized constellation that can be seen during winter in the late evenings.
It also has seven or eight bright stars (see the image given above) and known as the Hunter.
The three middle stars are recognized as the belt of the hunter and the four bright stars appear to be arranged in the shape of a quadrilateral.
