34  Module 7: The Nature of Light

34.1 Overview

The Nature of Light explores electromagnetic waves, wave and quantum models of light, and the consequences of special relativity.

34.2 Inquiry questions

• What is light?
• What evidence supports the classical wave model of light and under what circumstances does this model not apply?
• How are light and matter related?
• How does the behaviour of light affect concepts of time, space and matter?

34.3 Outcomes (syllabus wording)

• PH11/12-1 develops and evaluates questions and hypotheses for scientific investigation.
• PH11/12-2 designs and evaluates investigations in order to obtain primary and secondary data and information.
• PH11/12-3 conducts investigations to collect valid and reliable primary and secondary data and information.
• PH11/12-4 selects and processes appropriate qualitative and quantitative data and information using a range of appropriate media.
• PH11/12-7 communicates scientific understanding using suitable language and terminology for a specific audience or purpose.
• PH12-14 explains and quantitatively analyses the transmission, reflection and refraction of light, and changes in the frequency and wavelength of light in media and optical systems.

34.4 Sections

• The Electromagnetic Spectrum
• Light: The Wave Model
• Light: The Quantum Model
• Special Relativity

34.5 Baseline rules

• One formula per block, followed by a worked use.
• Max 150 words per block; max 2 new symbols per block.
• Use syllabus wording for definition blocks.
• Media is optional support only; text stands alone.