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The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) provides an official Physics syllabus for candidates preparing for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
This syllabus highlights key topics, concepts, and objectives that students must study to excel in the exam.
Below is a structured breakdown of the JAMB Physics syllabus, based on reliable sources from top Nigerian educational platforms.
1. Measurements and Units
Topics Covered:
- Basic measurements: length, mass, and time.
- Measuring instruments: meter rule, Vernier calipers, micrometer screw gauge, beam balance, and stopwatches.
- Fundamental and derived units.
- Dimensional analysis and its applications.
Objectives:
- Identify and use appropriate measuring instruments.
- Understand fundamental and derived units.
- Apply dimensional analysis in problem-solving.
2. Scalars and Vectors
Topics Covered:
- Definitions and differences between scalars and vectors.
- Vector representation, addition, and subtraction.
- Resolution of vectors into components.
Objectives:
- Distinguish between scalar and vector quantities.
- Perform vector addition and resolution.
- Apply vector principles in solving Physics problems.
3. Motion and Laws of Motion
Topics Covered:
- Types of motion: linear, rotational, and oscillatory.
- Speed, velocity, and acceleration.
- Equations of motion under gravity.
- Newton’s Laws of Motion and their applications.
Objectives:
- Solve problems related to motion.
- Apply Newton’s laws to real-world scenarios.
- Understand projectile motion principles.
4. Work, Energy, and Power
Topics Covered:
- Concepts of work, energy, and power.
- Energy transformation and conservation.
- Renewable and non-renewable energy sources.
Objectives:
- Calculate work done by a force.
- Understand different forms of energy and their conservation.
- Apply the concept of power in practical situations.
5. Gravitational Field
Topics Covered:
- Newton’s Law of Universal Gravitation.
- Gravitational potential and field strength.
- Differences between mass and weight.
- Satellite motion and escape velocity.
Objectives:
- Calculate gravitational force between two masses.
- Understand the significance of gravitational field strength.
- Differentiate mass from weight.
6. Equilibrium and Stability
Topics Covered:
- Equilibrium conditions in physics.
- Moment of a force and torque.
- Centre of gravity and stability of objects.
Objectives:
- Apply equilibrium conditions to solve problems.
- Use the principle of moments in practical situations.
- Analyze stability in different structures.
7. Heat and Temperature
Topics Covered:
- Temperature measurement and scales.
- Thermal expansion of solids, liquids, and gases.
- Gas laws (Boyle’s, Charles’, and Pressure law).
- First and second laws of thermodynamics.
Objectives:
- Convert temperatures between Celsius, Kelvin, and Fahrenheit.
- Explain the expansion of different states of matter.
- Apply thermodynamic laws to heat transfer processes.
8. Waves and Sound
Topics Covered:
- Types of waves (mechanical and electromagnetic).
- Properties of waves: frequency, wavelength, and speed.
- Sound waves: production, propagation, and characteristics.
- Applications of sound waves in technology.
Objectives:
- Differentiate between longitudinal and transverse waves.
- Understand wave motion and propagation.
- Apply principles of sound waves in real-world scenarios.
9. Optics and Light
Topics Covered:
- Reflection and refraction of light.
- Lenses and image formation.
- Dispersion and spectrum of light.
- Wave nature of light: interference, diffraction, and polarization.
Objectives:
- Use ray diagrams to analyze image formation.
- Apply the laws of reflection and refraction.
- Understand optical instruments like microscopes and telescopes.
10. Electricity and Magnetism
Topics Covered:
- Electrostatics: charges, Coulomb’s law, electric field, and potential difference.
- Current electricity: Ohm’s law, resistance, series and parallel circuits.
- Magnetic fields and electromagnetic induction.
Objectives:
- Solve problems involving electric circuits.
- Understand the concept of magnetic fields.
- Apply electromagnetic principles to daily life applications.
11. Radioactivity and Nuclear Physics
Topics Covered:
- Structure of the atom and radioactivity.
- Types of radiation: alpha, beta, and gamma.
- Half-life and nuclear energy applications.
Objectives:
- Understand atomic structure and radioactivity.
- Differentiate between types of radiation.
- Apply nuclear physics concepts in medicine and industry.
Conclusion
The JAMB Physics syllabus is designed to help students focus on essential topics for the UTME.
A strong grasp of these concepts, combined with regular practice, will enhance candidates’ chances of scoring high in the examination.
Proper study materials and past questions are highly recommended for effective preparation.