Physics: Space Physics 2
Overview
Pupils will learn about the formation of stars and study evidence to show that our universe is ever expanding. They will discover how objects remain in orbit, and how scientific theories are ever developing and evolving. Pupils should also review the keywords from the previous Year 8 Space Physics topic.
The main SMSC/Personal Development content of this topic include: PD13 – Ability to be reflective about their own beliefs (religious or otherwise) and perspective on life.
PD14 – Knowledge of, and respect for, different people’s faiths, feelings and values.
PD16 – Use of imagination and creativity in their learning.
The main UN Rights of a Child covered are No. 2 – No discrimination and No. 13 Share thoughts freely.
Example Key Words
Stable Orbit
A stable orbit is one in which the satellite’s speed is just right – it will not move off into space or spiral into the Earth, but will travel around a fixed path.
Centripetal Force
Force, needed for circular motion, which acts towards the centre of a circle.
Red Shift
The change in wavelength of light from a distant star moving away from Earth.
Big Bang Theory
The scientific theory that describes the early development of the Universe.
Cosmic Microwave Background Radiation
In 1948, it was suggested that if the Universe started with an explosion, there should be microwave background radiation in space left over from the explosion. This radiation was discovered in 1964. It is called cosmic microwave background radiation or CMBR.