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2025 Topic based syllabus for wassce(waec) Physics

Jan 05 2025 09:31:00 PM

Osason

Jamb Updates

physics syllabus for WAEC

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Welcome to the Physics syllabus for this academic year provided by WAEC. This comprehensive guide will outline the key concepts, topics, and skills you’ll need to master in preparation for the WAEC Physics examination. By understanding and applying these principles, you will be equipped to tackle the challenges of the subject with confidence and succeed in your Physics exams.
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Some of the course objectives of the waec physics syllabus are to: sustain students interest in Physics, Develop attitude relevant to physics that encourage accuracy, precision and objectivity, interpret physical phenomena, laws, definition concepts and other theories, demonstrate the ability to solve correctly physics problems using relevant theories and concepts.
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Quick Start >>>: Scroll down to start learning each topic in Waec Physics
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This singular "Waec syllabus for physics blog" holds the answers you’ve been searching for, presented in a way that’s clear, engaging, and resourceful. Whether you’re aiming to learn all the topics in the physics syllabus, improve, or just be inspired, it’s tailored to provide exactly what you need. Don’t miss the chance to uncover valuable insights that could make a real difference in your Jamb result—read it now and see for yourself!
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I have grouped the topics in wassce(waec) syllabus into sections so that you can easily navigate to the one you are interested in. I sincerely implore you to study the topic one by one and make sure you understand it very well because Waec would not necessarily set question that does not reflect in the syllabus. You see, your waec Physics syllabus is just like a map that can help you navigate into success. Here are the table of content
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Table of Contents
  1. Aims of WAEC(WASSCE) syllabus for Physics
  2. Objectives of WAEC(WASSCE) syllabus for Physics
  3. WAEC syllabus for Physics Part I: Matter, Position, Motion and Time
  4. WAEC syllabus for Physics Part II: Energy
  5. WAEC syllabus for Physics Part III: Waves
  6. WAEC syllabus for Physics part IV: Fields
  7. WAEC syllabus for Physics part IV: Atomic and Nuclear Physics
  8. WAEC syllabus for Physics: candidates in Nigeria
  9. WAEC syllabus for Physics: candidates in Ghana
  10. WAEC syllabus for Physics: candidates in SIERRA LEONE
  11. WAEC syllabus for Physics: candidates in Gambia
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Aims of WAEC(WASSCE) syllabus for Physics

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The aims of the waec physics syllabus are to:
  1. Acquire proper understanding of the basic principles and applications of Physics;
  2. Develop scientific skills and attitudes as pre-requisites for further scientific activities;
  3. Recognise the usefulness, and limitations of scientific method to appreciate its applicability in other disciplines and in everyday life;
  4. Develop abilities, attitudes and skills that encourage efficient and safe practice;
  5. Develop attitudes relevant to science such as concern for accuracy and precision, objectivity, integrity, initiative and inventiveness

Objectives of WAEC(WASSCE) syllabus for Physics

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The following skills appropriate to Physics will be tested:
  1. Knowledge and understanding: Candidates should be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
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    (a) scientific phenomena, facts, laws, definitions, concepts and theories;
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    (b) scientific vocabulary, terminology and conventions (including symbols, quantities and units);
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    (c) the use of scientific apparatus, including techniques of operation and aspects of safety;
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    (d) scientific quantities and their determinations;
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    (e) scientific and technological applications with their social, economic and environmental implications.
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  2. Information Handling and Problem-solving
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    Candidates should be able, using visual, oral, aural and written (including symbolic, diagrammatic, graphical and numerical) information to:
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    (a) locate, select, organise and present information from a variety of sources, including everyday experience;
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    (b) translate information from one form to another;
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    (c) analyse and evaluate information and other data;
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    (d) use information to identify patterns, report trends and draw inferences;
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    (e) present reasonable explanations for natural occurrences, patterns and relationships;
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    (f) make predictions from data.
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  3. Experimental and Problem-Solving Techniques
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    Candidates should be able to: (a) follow instructions;
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    (b) carry out experimental procedures using apparatus;
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    (c) make and record observations, measurements and estimates with due regard to precision, accuracy and units;
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    (d) interprete, evaluate and report on observations and experimental data;
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    (e) identify problems, plan and carry out investigations, including the selection of techniques, apparatus, measuring devices and materials;
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    (f) evaluate methods and suggest possible improvements;
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    (g) state and explain the necessary precautions taken in experiments to obtain accurate results.
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WAEC syllabus for Physics Part I: Matter, Position, Motion and Time

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1. Concepts of matter
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To access Wasssce\Waec lesson note on the topic Concepts of Matter click here>>>
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NOTES:
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⋆\star Simple structure of matter should be discussed ⋆\star The three states of matter, namely solid, liquid and gas ⋆\star Evidence of the particle nature of matter e.g. Brownian motion experiment ⋆\star Kinetic theory of matter ⋆\star Use of the theory to explain: states of matter (solid, liquid and gas) ⋆\star pressure in a gas ⋆\star evaporation and boiling; cohesion, adhesion, capillarity ⋆\star Crystalline and amorphous substances to be compared (Arrangement of atoms in crystalline structure not required) ⋆\star
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2. Fundamental and derived quantities and units
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(a) Fundamental quantities and units
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(b) Derived quantities and unit
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NOTES
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⋆\star Length, mass, and time as examples of fundamental quantities ⋆\star and m, kg and s as their respective units.⋆\star Volume, density and speed as derived quantities and m3m^3, kgm−3{kgm}^{-3} and ms−1{ms}^{-1} as their respective units. ⋆\star
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3. Position, distance and displacement.
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  • Concept of position as a location of point – rectangular coordinates
  • Measurement of distance
  • Concept of direction as a way of locating a point – bearing
  • Distinction between distance and displacement
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NOTES
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⋆\star Position of objects in space using the X,Y,Z axes can be mentioned. ⋆\star Use of string, metre rule, vernier callipers and micrometer screw gauge. ⋆\star Degree of accuracy should be noted ⋆\star Metre (m) as unit of distance ⋆\star Use of compass and a protractor ⋆\star Graphical location and directions by axes to be stressed.⋆\star
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4. Mass and weight: Distinction between mass and weight
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NOTES
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⋆\star Use of lever balance and chemical/beam balance to measure mass and spring balance to measure weight ⋆\star Kilogram (kg) as unit of mass and newton (N) as unit of weight ⋆\star
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5. Time
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  • Concept of time as interval between physical events
  • Measurement of time
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NOTES
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⋆\star The use of heart-beat, sand-clock, ticker-timer, pendulum and stopwatch/clock ⋆\star Seconds (s) as units of time ⋆\star
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6. Fluids at rest
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  • Volume, density and relative density
  • Pressure in fluids
  • Equilibrium of bodies
  1. Archmedes’ principle
  2. Law of flotation
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NOTES
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⋆\star Experimental determination for solids and liquids ⋆\star Concept and definition of pressure ⋆\star Pascal’s principle, application of principle to hydraulic press and car brakes ⋆\star Dependence of pressure on the depth of a point below a liquid surface ⋆\star
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Atmospheric pressure ⋆\star Simple barometer, manometer, siphon, syringes and pumps ⋆\star determination of the relative density of liquids with U-tube and Hare’s apparatus ⋆\star Identification of the forces acting on a body partially or completely immersed in a fluid ⋆\star Use of the principle to determine the relative densities of solids and liquids ⋆\star Establishing the conditions for a body to float in a fluid ⋆\star Applications in hydrometer, balloons, boats, ships, submarines etc ⋆\star
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7. Motion
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  • Types of motion: Random, rectilinear, translational, rotational, circular, orbital, spin, oscillatory
  • Relative motion
  • Cause of motion
  • Types of force:
  1. Contact force
  2. Force Field
  • Solid friction
  • Friction in fluids (Viscosity)
  • Simple ideas of circular motion
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NOTES
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⋆\star Only qualitative treatment is required. ⋆\star Illustration should be given for the various types of motion ⋆\star Numerical problems on co-linear motion may be set ⋆\star Force as cause of motion ⋆\star Push and pull ⋆\star Electric and magnetic attractions and repulsion; gravitational pull ⋆\star Frictional force between two stationary bodies (static) and between two bodies in relative motion (dynamic) ⋆\star Coefficients of limiting friction and their determination ⋆\star Advantages of friction e.g. in locomotion, friction belt, grindstone ⋆\star Disadvantages of friction e.g. reduction of efficiency, wear and tear of
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machines ⋆\star Methods of reducing friction ⋆\star Use of ball bearings, rollers and lubrication ⋆\star Definition and effects ⋆\star Simple explanation as extension of friction in fluids ⋆\star Fluid friction and its application in lubrication should be treated qualitatively ⋆\star Terminal velocity and its determination ⋆\star Experiments with a string tied to a stone at one end and whirled around should be carried out to: (i) demonstrate motion in a vertical/horizontal circle.
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(ii) show the difference between angular speed and velocity.
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(iii) show centripetal force. Banking of roads in reducing sideways friction should be qualitatively discussed ⋆\star
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8. Speed and velocity
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  • Concept of speed as change of distance with time
  • Concept of velocity as change of displacement with time
  • Uniform/non-uniform speed/velocity
  • Distance/displacement-time graph
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NOTES
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Metre per second (ms-1) as unit of speed/velocity ⋆\star Ticker-timer or similar devices should be used to determine speed/velocity ⋆\star Definition of velocity as ds/dt ⋆\star Determination of instantaneous speed/velocity from distance/displacement-time graph and by calculation ⋆\star
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9. Rectilinear acceleration
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  • Concept of acceleration as change of velocity with time.
  • Uniform/non-uniform acceleration
  • Velocity-time graph,
  • Equations of motion with constant acceleration; Gravitational acceleration as a special case.
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NOTES
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⋆\star Unit of acceleration as ms−2{ms}^{-2}. ⋆\star Ticker timer or similar devices should be used to determine acceleration ⋆\star Definition of acceleration as dv/dt ⋆\star Determination of acceleration and displacement from velocity-time graph ⋆\star Use of equations to solve numerical problems ⋆\star
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10. Scalars and vectors
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  • Concept of scalars as physical quantities with magnitude and no direction
  • Concept of vectors as physical quantities with both magnitude and direction.
  • Vector representation
  • Addition of vectors
  • Resolution of vectors
  • Resultant velocity using vector representation.
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NOTES
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⋆\star Mass, distance, speed and time as examples of scalars ⋆\star Weight, displacement, velocity, and acceleration as examples of vectors ⋆\star Use of force board to determine the resultant of two forces ⋆\star Obtain the resultant of two velocities analytically and graphically ⋆\star
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11. Equilibrium of forces
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  • Principle of moments
  • Conditions for equilibrium of rigid bodies under the action of parallel and non-parallel forces.
  • Centre of gravity and stability
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NOTES
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⋆\star Moment of force/Torque ⋆\star Simple treatment of a couple, e.g. turning of water tap, corkscrew, etc ⋆\star Use of force board to determine resultant and equilibrant forces ⋆\star Treatment should include resolution of forces into two perpendicular directions and composition of forces ⋆\star Parallelogram of forces ⋆\star Triangle of forces ⋆\star Should be treated experimentally ⋆\star Treatment should include stable, unstable and neutral equilibria ⋆\star
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12. Simple harmonic motion
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  • Illustration, explanation and definition of simple harmonic motion (S.H.M.)
  • Speed and acceleration of S.H.M.
  • Period, frequency and amplitude of a body executing S.H.M.
  • Energy of S.H.M.
  • Forced vibration and resonance
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NOTES
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⋆\star Use of a loaded test-tube oscillating vertically in a liquid, simple pendulum, spiral spring and bifilar suspension to demonstrate simple harmonic motion ⋆\star Relate linear and angular speeds ⋆\star linear and angular accelerations ⋆\star
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Experimental determination of ‘g’ with the simple pendulum and helical spring ⋆\star The theory of the principles should be treated but derivation of the formula for ‘g’ is not required ⋆\star Simple problems may be set on simple harmonic motion ⋆\star Mathematical proof of simple harmonic motion in respect of spiral spring, bililar suspension and loaded test-tube is not required ⋆\star
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13. Newton’s laws of motion
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  • First Law: Inertia of rest and inertia of motion
  • Second Law: Force, acceleration, momentum and impulse
  • Third Law: Action and reaction
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NOTES
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⋆\star Distinction between inertial mass and weight ⋆\star Use of timing devices e.g. ticker-timer to determine the acceleration of a falling body and the relationship when the accelerating force is constant ⋆\star Linear momentum and its conservation ⋆\star Collision of elastic bodies in a straight line ⋆\star Applications: recoil of a gun, jet and rocket propulsions ⋆\star
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WAEC syllabus for Physics Part II: Energy

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14. Energy
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  • Forms of energy
  • World energy resources
  • Conservation of energy
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NOTES
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⋆\star Examples of various forms of energy should be mentioned e.g. mechanical (potential and kinetic), heat, chemical, electrical, light, sound, nuclear etc ⋆\star Renewable (e.g. solar, wind, tides, hydro, ocean waves) and non-renewable (e.g. petroleum, coal, nuclear, Biomass) ⋆\star Sources of energy should be discussed briefly ⋆\star Statement of the principle of conservation of energy and its use in explaining energy transformations ⋆\star
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15. Work, Energy and Power
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  • Concept of work as a measure of energy transfer
  • Concept of energy as capability to do work
  • Work done in a gravitational field.
  • Types of mechanical energy
  • Potential energy (P.E.)
  • Kinetic energy (K.E.)
  • Conservation of mechanical energy
  • Concept of power as time rate of doing work.
  • Application of mechanical energy – machines. Levers, pulleys, inclined plane, wedge, screw, wheel and axle, gears.
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NOTES:
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⋆\star Unit of work as the joule (J) ⋆\star Unit of energy as the joule (J) ⋆\star while unit of electrical consumption is kWh⋆\star Work done in lifting a body and by falling bodies ⋆\star Derivation of P.E. and K.E. are expected to be known ⋆\star Identification of types of energy possessed by a body under given conditions ⋆\star
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Verification of the principle ⋆\star Unit of power as the watt (W) ⋆\star The force ratio (F.R.) ⋆\star mechanical advantage (M.A.) ⋆\star velocity ratio (V.R.) ⋆\star and efficiency of each machine should be treated ⋆\star Identification of simple machines that make up a given complicated machine e.g. bicycle ⋆\star Effects of friction on machines ⋆\star Reduction of friction in machine ⋆\star
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16. Heat Energy
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  • Temperature and its measurement
  • Effects of heat on matter e.g.:
  1. Rise in temperature
  2. Change of state
  3. Expansion
  4. Change of resistance:
  • Thermal expansion – Linear, area and volume expansivities
  • Heat transfer – Conduction, convection and radiation
  • The gas laws-Boyle’s law, Charles’ law, pressure law and general gas law
  • Measurement of heat energy:
  1. Concept of heat capacity
  2. Specific heat capacity
  • Latent heat:
  1. Concept of latent heat
  2. Melting point and boiling point
  3. Specific latent heat of fusion and of vaporization
  • Evaporation and boiling
  • Vapour and vapour pressure
  • Humidity, relative humidity and dew point
  • Humidity and the weather
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NOTES:
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⋆\star Concept of temperature as degree of hotness or coldness of a body ⋆\star Construction and graduation of a simple thermometer ⋆\star Properties of thermometric liquids ⋆\star The following thermometers should be treated: Constant – volume gas thermometer ⋆\star resistance thermometer ⋆\star thermocouple ⋆\star liquid-in-glass thermometer including maximum and minimum thermometer ⋆\star and clinical thermometer ⋆\star Pyrometer should be mentioned ⋆\star Celsius and Absolute scales of temperature ⋆\star Kelvin and degree Celsius as units of temperature ⋆\star
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⋆\star Use of the Kinetic theory to explain effects of heat ⋆\star
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⋆\star Qualitative and quantitative treatment ⋆\star Consequences and applications of expansions ⋆\star Expansion in buildings and bridges ⋆\star bimetallic strips ⋆\star thermostat ⋆\star over-head cables causing sagging ⋆\star and in railway lines causing buckling ⋆\star Real and apparent expansion of liquids ⋆\star Anomalous expansion of water ⋆\star Per kelvin (K−1)({K}^{-1}) as the unit of expansivity ⋆\star
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⋆\star Use of the kinetic theory to explain the modes of heat transfer ⋆\star Simple experimental illustrations ⋆\star Treatment should include the explanation of land and sea breezes ⋆\star ventilation and applications in cooling devices ⋆\star The vacuum flask ⋆\star The laws should be verified using simple apparatus ⋆\star Use of the kinetic theory to explain the laws ⋆\star Simple problems may be set ⋆\star
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⋆\star Use of the method of mixtures and the electrical method to determine the specific heat capacities of solids and liquids ⋆\star Land and sea breezes related to the specific heat capacity of water and land ⋆\star. Jkg−1{Jkg}^{-1}, K−1K^{-1} as unit of specific heat capacity ⋆\star Explanation and types of latent heat ⋆\star
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⋆\star Determination of the melting point of a solid and the boiling point of a liquid ⋆\star Effects of impurities and pressure on melting and boiling points ⋆\star Application in pressure cooker ⋆\star Use of the method of mixtures and the electrical method to determine the specific latent heat of fusion of ice and of vaporization of steam ⋆\star Applications in refrigerators and air conditioners ⋆\star Jkg−1{Jkg}^{-1} as unit of specific latent heat⋆\star
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⋆\star Effect of temperature ⋆\star humidity ⋆\star surface area and draught on evaporation to be discussed ⋆\star
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⋆\star Explanation of vapour and vapour pressure ⋆\star Demonstration of vapour pressure using simple experiments ⋆\star Saturated vapour pressure and its relation to boiling ⋆\star
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⋆\star Measurement of dew point and relative humidity ⋆\star Estimation of humidity of the atmosphere using wet and dry-bulb hygrometer ⋆\star Formation of dew ⋆\star fog and rain ⋆\star
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17. Production and propagation of waves
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  • Production and propagation of mechanical waves
  • Pulsating system: Energy transmitted with definite speed, frequency and wavelength
  • Waveform
  • Mathematical relationship connecting frequency (f), wavelength (λ\lambda), period (T) and velocity (v)
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NOTES:
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⋆\star Use of ropes and springs (slinky) to generate mechanical waves ⋆\star Use of ripple tank to show water waves and to demonstrate energy propagation by waves ⋆\star Hertz (Hz) as unit of frequency ⋆\star
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⋆\star Description and graphical representation ⋆\star Amplitude ⋆\star wavelength ⋆\star frequency and period ⋆\star Sound and light as wave phenomena ⋆\star v=fλv = f \lambda and T=1fT = \frac{1}{f} Simple problems may be set ⋆\star
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18. Types of Waves
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  • Transverse, longitudinal and stationary waves
  • Mathematical representation of wave motion.
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NOTES:
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Examples to be given. Equation y=Asinwt+−2πxλy = A sin wt{+}_{-} \frac{2\pi x}{\lambda} to be explained Questions on phase difference will not be set.
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19. Properties of waves
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  • Reflection, refraction, diffraction, interference, superposition of progressive waves producing standing/stationary waves.
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NOTES:
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⋆\star Ripple tank should be extensively used to demonstrate these properties with plane and circular waves ⋆\star Explanation of the properties ⋆\star
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20. Light Waves
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  • Sources of light
  • Rectilinear propagation of light
  • Reflection of light at plane surface: plane mirror
  • Reflection of light at curved surfaces: concave and convex mirrors
  • Refraction of light at plane surfaces: rectangular glass prism (block) and triangular prism.
  • Refraction of light at curved surfaces: Converging and diverging lenses
  • Application of lenses in optical instruments.
  • Dispersion of white light by a triangular glass prism.
NOTES:
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⋆\star Natural and artificial. Luminous and non-luminous bodies ⋆\star Formation of shadows and eclipse ⋆\star Pinhole camera ⋆\star Simple numerical problems may be set ⋆\star Regular and irregular reflection ⋆\star Verification of laws of reflection ⋆\star Formation of images. Inclined plane mirrors ⋆\star Rotation of mirrors ⋆\star Applications in periscope, sextant and kaleidoscope ⋆\star Laws of reflection ⋆\star Formation of images ⋆\star
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Characteristics of images ⋆\star Use of mirror formulae and magnification ⋆\star to solve numerical problems (Derivation of formulae is not required) ⋆\star Experimental determination of the focal length of concave mirror ⋆\star Applications in searchlight ⋆\star parabolic and driving mirrors ⋆\star car headlamps, etc ⋆\star
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Laws of refraction ⋆\star Formation of images ⋆\star Real and Apparent depth ⋆\star Critical angle and total internal reflection. Lateral displacement and angle of deviation ⋆\star Use of minimum deviation equation: ⋆\star (Derivation of the formula is not required)
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Applications: periscope, prism binoculars, optical fibres. The mirage ⋆\star Formation of images ⋆\star Use of lens formulae ⋆\star and magnification to solve numerical problems ⋆\star (Derivation of the formulae not required) ⋆\star Experimental determination of the focal length of converging lens ⋆\star Power of lens in dioptres D ⋆\star Simple camera ⋆\star the human eye ⋆\star film projector
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⋆\star simple and compound microscopes ⋆\star terrestrial and astronomical telescopes ⋆\star Angular magnification ⋆\star Prism binoculars ⋆\star The structure and function of the camera and the human eye should be compared ⋆\star Defects of the human eye and their corrections ⋆\star Production of pure spectrum of a white light. Recombination of the components of the spectrum ⋆\star Colour of objects. Mixing coloured lights⋆\star
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21. Electromagnetic waves: Types of radiation in electromagnetic spectrum
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NOTE:
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Elementary description and uses of various types of radiation: Radio, infrared, visible light, ultra-violet, X-rays, gamma rays
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22. Sound Waves
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  • Sources of sound
  • Transmission of sound waves
  • Speed of sound in solid, liquid and air
  • Echoes and reverberation
  • Noise and music
  • Characteristics of sound
  • Vibration in strings
  • Forced vibration:
  1. Resonance
  2. Harmonics and overtones
  • Vibration of air in pipe – open and closed pipes
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NOTES:
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⋆\star Experiment to show that a material medium is required ⋆\star To be compared. Dependence of velocity of sound on temperature and pressure to be considered ⋆\star Use of echoes in mineral exploration, and determination of ocean depth ⋆\star Thunder and multiple reflections in a large room as examples of reverberation ⋆\star Pitch, loudness and quality ⋆\star
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The use of sonometer to demonstrate the dependence of frequency (f) on length (l), tension (T) and linear density (m) of string should be treated ⋆\star Use of the formula: f0=j12l√Tmf_0 = j\frac{1}{2l}\surd{\frac{T}{m}} in solving simple numerical problems ⋆\star Applications in stringed instruments e.g. guitar, piano, harp, violin etc ⋆\star Use of resonance boxes and sonometer to illustrate forced vibration ⋆\star
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Use of overtones to explain the quality of a musical note ⋆\star Applications in percussion instruments e.g. drum, bell, cymbals, xylophone, etc ⋆\star Measurement of velocity of sound in air or frequency of tuning fork using the resonance tube ⋆\star Use of the relationship v=fλv = f \lambda in solving numerical problems ⋆\star End correction is expected ⋆\star Applications in wind instruments e.g. organ, flute, trumpet, horn, clarinet, saxophone, etc ⋆\star
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WAEC syllabus for Physics Part III: Waves

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WAEC syllabus for Physics part IV: Fields

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23. Description and property of fields
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  • Concept of fields: Gravitational, electric and magnetic
  • Properties of a force field
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NOTES:
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Use of compass needle and iron filings to show magnetic field lines.
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24. Gravitational field
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  • Acceleration due to gravity, (g)
  • Gravitational force between two masses: Newton’s law of gravitation
  • Gravitational potential and escape velocity.
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NOTES:
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⋆\star g as gravitational field intensity should be mentioned, g = F/m ⋆\star Masses include protons, electrons and planets ⋆\star Universal gravitational constant (G) ⋆\star Relationship between ‘G’ and ‘g’ ⋆\star Calculation of the escape velocity of a rocket from the earth’s gravitational field ⋆\star
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25. Electric Field
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  1. Electrostatics: (a) Production of electric charges
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    (b) Types of distribution of charges
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    (c) Storage of charges
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    (d) Electric lines of force
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    (e) Electric force between point charges: Coulomb’s law
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    (f) Concepts of electric field, electric field intensity (potential gradient) and electric potential.
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    (g) Capacitance – Definition, arrangement and application
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26. Current electricity:
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(a) Production of electric current from primary and secondary cells
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(b) Potential difference and electric current
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(c) Electric circuit
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(d) Electric conduction through materials
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(e) Electric energy and power
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(f) Shunt and multiplier
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(g) Resistivity and Conductivity
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(h) Measurement of electric current, potential difference, resistance, e.m.f. and internal resistance of a cell.
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NOTES:
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⋆\star Production by friction, induction and contact ⋆\star A simple electroscope should be used to detect and compare charges on differently-shaped bodies ⋆\star Application in light conductors ⋆\star
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Determination, properties and field patterns of charges ⋆\star Permittivity of a medium ⋆\star Calculation of electric field intensity and electric potential of simple systems ⋆\star Factors affecting the capacitance of a parallel – plate capacitor ⋆\star The farad (F) as unit of capacitance ⋆\star
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Capacitors in series and in parallel ⋆\star Energy stored in a charged capacitor. Uses of capacitors e.g. in radio, T.V. etc ⋆\star (Derivation of formulae for capacitance is not required) Simple cell and its defects ⋆\star Daniell cell ⋆\star Leclanché cell (wet and dry) ⋆\star Lead-acid accumulator ⋆\star Alkaline-cadium cell ⋆\star E.m.f. of a cell, the volt (V) as unit of e.m.f ⋆\star
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Ohm’s law and resistance ⋆\star Verification of Ohm’s law ⋆\star The volt (V), ampere (A) and ohm () as units of p.d. ⋆\star current and resistance respectively ⋆\star Series and parallel arrangements of cells and resistors ⋆\star Lost volt and internal resistance of batteries ⋆\star Ohmic and non ohmic conductors ⋆\star Examples should be given ⋆\star
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Quantitative definition of electrical energy and power ⋆\star Heating effect of electrical energy and its application ⋆\star Conversion of electrical energy to mechanical energy e.g. electric motors ⋆\star Conversion of solar energy to electrical and heat energies e.g. solar cells, solar heaters, etc ⋆\star Use in conversion of a galvanometer into an ammeter or a voltmeter ⋆\star
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Factors affecting the electrical resistance of a material should be treated ⋆\star Simple problems may be set ⋆\star Principle of operation and use of ammeter, voltmeter, potentiometer, metre bridge, and wheatstone bridge ⋆\star
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26. Magnetic field
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  • Properties of magnets; Magnetic materials.
  • Magnetization and de-magnetization
  • Concept of magnetic field
  • Force on a current-carrying conductor placed in a magnetic field and between two parallel current-carrying conductors
  • Use of electromagnets
  • Earth’s magnetic field
  • Magnetic force on a moving charged particle
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NOTES:
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⋆\star Practical examples such as soft iron, steel and alloys ⋆\star Temporary and permanent magnets ⋆\star Comparison of iron and steel as magnetic materials ⋆\star Magnetic flux and magnetic flux density ⋆\star Magnetic field around a permanent magnet, a current-carrying conductor and a solenoid ⋆\star Plotting of lines of force to locate neutral points ⋆\star Units of magnetic flux and magnetic flux density as weber (Wb) and tesla (T) respectively ⋆\star
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Qualitative treatment only ⋆\star Applications: electric motor and moving-coil galvanometer ⋆\star Examples in electric, bell telephone earpiece etc ⋆\star Mariner’s compass ⋆\star Angles of dip and declination ⋆\star Solving simple problems involving the motion of a charged particle in a magnetic field ⋆\star
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27. Electromagnetic field
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  • Concept of electromagnetic field
  • Electromagnetic induction Faraday’s law, Lenz’s law and motor-generator effect
  • Inductance
  • Eddy current
  • Power transmission and distribution
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NOTES:
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⋆\star Identifying the directions of current, magnetic field and force in an electromagnetic field (Fleming’s left-hand rule) ⋆\star Applications: Generator (d.c. and a.c.) ⋆\star induction coil and transformer ⋆\star The principles underlying the production of direct and alternating currents should be treated ⋆\star Equation E = Eo sinwt should be explained ⋆\star
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Explanation of inductance ⋆\star Henry as unit of inductance ⋆\star Energy stored in an inductor Application in radio ⋆\star T.V., transformer ⋆\star (Derivation of formula is not required) ⋆\star
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A method of reducing eddy current losses should be treated ⋆\star Applications in induction furnace speedometer, etc ⋆\star Reduction of power losses in high-tension transmission lines ⋆\star Household wiring system should be discussed ⋆\star
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Simple a.c. circuits
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  • Graphical representation ofe.m.f. and current in an a.c.circuit.
  • Peak and r.m.s. values
  • Series circuit containing resistance, inductance and capacitance
  • Reactance and impedance
  • Vector diagrams
  • Resonance in an a.c. circuit
  • Power in an a.c. circuit
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NOTES:
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⋆\star Graphs of equation I=IosinwtI = I_o sin wt and ⋆\star E=E0sinwtE = E_0 sinwt should be treated ⋆\star Phase relationship between voltage and current in the circuit elements; resistor, inductor and capacitor ⋆\star Simple calculations involving a.c. circuit ⋆\star (Derivation of formulae is not required.) ⋆\star XLX_L and XCX_C should be treated ⋆\star Simple numerical problems may be set ⋆\star Applications in tuning of radio and T.V. should be discussed ⋆\star
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WAEC syllabus for Physics part IV: Atomic and Nuclear Physics

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29. Structure of the atom
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  • Models of the atom
  • Energy quantization
  • Photoelectric effect
  • Thermionic emission
  • X-rays
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NOTES: ⋆\star Thomson, Rutherford, Bohr and electron-cloud (wave-mechanical) ⋆\star models should be discussed qualitatively. Limitations of each model ⋆\star Quantization of angular momentum (Bohr) ⋆\star Energy levels in the atom ⋆\star Colour and light frequency ⋆\star Treatment should include the following: Frank-Hertz experiment ⋆\star Line spectra from hot bodies ⋆\star absorption spectra and spectra of discharge lamps ⋆\star
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Explanation of photoelectric effect ⋆\star Dual nature of light ⋆\star Work function and threshold frequency ⋆\star Einstein’s photoelectric equation and its explanation ⋆\star Applications in T.V., camera, etc. Simple problems may be set. Explanation and applications ⋆\star Production of X-rays and structure of X-ray tube ⋆\star Types, characteristics, properties, uses and hazards of X-rays ⋆\star Safety precautions ⋆\star
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30. Structure of the nucleus
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  • Composition of the nucleus
  • Radioactivity – Natural and artificial
  • Nuclear reactions – Fusion and Fission
NOTES:
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⋆\star Protons and neutrons ⋆\star Nucleon number (A), proton number (Z), neutron number (N) and the equation: A = Z + N ⋆\star to be treated. Nuclides and their notation. Isotopes ⋆\star Radioactive elements, radioactive emissions ⋆\star (α,β,λ\alpha, \beta, \lambda) and their properties and uses ⋆\star
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Detection of radiations by G – M counter, photographic plates, etc should be mentioned ⋆\star Radioactive decay ⋆\star half-life and decay constant ⋆\star Transformation of elements ⋆\star Applications of radioactivity in agriculture, medicine, industry, archaeology, etc ⋆\star
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Distinction between fusion and fission ⋆\star Binding energy, mass defect and energy equation: E=mc2E = {mc}^2 ⋆\star Nuclear reactors ⋆\star Atomic bomb ⋆\star Radiation hazards and safety precautions ⋆\star Peaceful uses of nuclear reactions ⋆\star
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31. Wave-particle paradox
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  • Electron diffraction
  • Duality of matter
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Notes:
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Simple illustration of the dual nature of light.
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WAEC syllabus for Physics: candidates in Nigeria

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1. Projectiles
  • Concept of projectiles as an object thrown/released into space
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NOTES:
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Applications of projectiles in warfare, sports etc. Simple problems involving range, maximum height and time of flight may be set.
2. Properties of waves: Polarization
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NOTES:
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The mechanical analogue of polarization should be demonstrated. Application of polarization in polaroid.
3. Electrical conduction through liquids
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NOTES:
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Electrolytes and non-electrolytes: conduction of charge carriers through electrolytes; voltameter, electroplating, Faraday’s law of electrolysis – Calibration of the ammeter.
4. Electrical conduction through gases
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NOTES:
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Discharge through gases; hot cathode emission. Application e.g. in neon signs, fluorescent tubes etc.
5. Elastic properties of solids:
  • Hooke’s law
  • Young’s modulus
  • Work done in springs and elastic strings
    paragraph
    NOTES:
    paragraph
    Qualitative treatment of Young’s modulus only.
6. Structure of matter
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NOTES:
paragraph
Use of the kinetic theory of matter to explain diffusion.
7. Surface tension
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NOTES:
paragraph
Definition and effects (capillarity, cohesion and adhesion). Applications e.g. in umbrellas, canvas, and in the use of grease and detergents
8. Wave-particle paradox
  • The uncertainty principle
    paragraph
    NOTES:
    paragraph
    Explain the uncertainty principle in very general terms with specific examples.
    paragraph

WAEC syllabus for Physics: candidates in Ghana

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1. Dimensions, measurements and units
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NOTES:
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Dimensional analysis: Use in determining formulae and units.
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2. Engines
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NOTES:
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Internal combusion engines, jet engines and rockets. Principles of operation of engines.
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3. Heat capacity
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NOTES:
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Use of cooling curve to determine the specific heat capacity of a liquid and also to determine the melting point of naphthalene.
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4. Gases
NOTES:
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Van der Waals’ equation for one mole of real gas.
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5. Beats
NOTES:
paragraph
Explanation of the phenomena of beats, beat frequency uses of beats.
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6. Doppler effect
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NOTES:
paragraph
Explanation of Doppler effect of sound. Only qualitative treatment required.
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7. Electrical networks
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NOTES:
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Kirchhoff’s laws. Application in electrical networks. Potential divider.
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8. Gravitational force
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NOTES:
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Satellites – artificial and natural. Orbits of satellites particularly geo-stationary orbits. Derivation of the expression of the period of satellites.
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9. Magnetic fields
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NOTES:
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Applications of magnetic force on a moving charged particle e.g. in deflection of charged particles in a T.V. and mass spectrometer.
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10. Electronics
(a) Solid state materials
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(b) Semi-conductor devices
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NOTES:
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Applications of magnetic force on a moving charged particle e.g. in deflection of charged particles in a T.V. and mass spectrometer. Lorentz force in crossed electric and magnetic fields.
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Distinction between conductors, semi-conductors and insulators in terms of conductivity and modes of conduction. Intrinsic conduction. Valence, conduction and forbidden energy bands, and how they affect the conductivity of materials. Doping of semi-conductors, p – and n – type semi-conductors. Majority and minority carriers. I – V characteristic of p – n junction diode. Rectification: half and full wave rectification. Smoothing of rectified wave forms using capacitors. Mode of operation of p-n-p and n-p-n transistors. Simple single stage amplifier. Integrated circuits should be mentioned.
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WAEC syllabus for Physics: candidates in SIERRA LEONE

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To access Wasssce\Waec Physics lesson note on the topics for Nigerian and Sierra Leone Candidates Learn More >>>
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1. Projectiles
  • Concept of projectiles as an object thrown/ released into space.
    paragraph
    NOTES:
    paragraph
    Applications of projectiles in warfare, sports etc. Simple problems involving range, maximum height and time of flight may be set.
    paragraph
2. Engines
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NOTES:
paragraph
Internal combustion engines, jet engines and rockets. Principle of operation of engines.
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3. Properties of wave:
  • Polarization
    paragraph
    NOTES:
    paragraph
    The mechanical analogue of polarization should be demonstrated. Application of polarization in polaroid.
    paragraph
4. Beats
paragraph
NOTES:
paragraph
Explanation of phenomenon of beats, beat frequency. Uses of beats.
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5. Electrical conduction through liquids
paragraph
NOTES:
paragraph
Electrolytes and non-electrolytes: conduction of charge carriers through electrolytes; voltammeter, electroplating, Faraday’s law of electrolysis. Calibration of the ammeter.
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6. Electrical conduction through gases
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NOTES:
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Discharge through gases; hot cathode emission. Application e.g. in neon signs, fluorescent tubes etc.
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7. Satellite
  • Artificial and natural
    paragraph
    NOTES:
    paragraph
    Orbits of satellites particularly geo-stationery orbits. Derivation of the expression for the period of orbit of satellites required.
    paragraph
8. Magnetic fields
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NOTES:
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Applications of magnetic force on a moving charged particle e.g. in deflection of charged particles in cathode-ray rubes.
paragraph
9. Elastic properties of solids:
  • Hooke’s law
  • Young’s modulus
  • Work done in springs and elastic strings
    paragraph
    NOTES:
    paragraph
    Qualitative treatment of Young’s modulus only.
10. Structure of matter
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NOTES:
paragraph
Use of the kinetic theory of matter to explain diffusion.
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11. Surface tension
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NOTES:
paragraph
Definition and effects (capillarity, cohesion and adhesion). Applications e.g. in umbrellas, canvas, and in the use of grease and detergents.
paragraph
12. Electronics
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NOTES:
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Distinction between conductors, semi-conductors and insulators in terms of conductivity and modes of conduction. Semi-conductor diode: Brief and qualitative treatment of the theory of p-type and n-type. The p-n junction diode and its current/voltage characteristic. The use of a diode as a rectifier.

WAEC syllabus for Physics: candidates in Gambia

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To access Wasssce\Waec Physics lesson note on the topics for Ghanian and the Gambia Candidates Learn More >>>
paragraph
1. Projectiles
paragraph
NOTES:
paragraph
  • Applications of projectiles in warfare, sports etc. Simple problems involving range, maximum height and time of flight may be set.
2. Properties of waves:
  • Polarization
    paragraph
    The mechanical analogue of polarization should be demonstrated. Application of polarization in polaroid.
    paragraph
    NOTES:
    paragraph
3. Electrical conduction through liquids
paragraph
Electrolytes and non-electrolytes: conduction of charge carriers through electrolytes; voltameter, electroplating, Faraday’s law of electrolysis – Calibration of the ammeter. NOTES:
paragraph
4. Electrical conduction through gases
paragraph
NOTES:
paragraph
Discharge through gases; hot cathode emission. Application e.g. in neon signs, fluorescent tubes etc.
paragraph
5. Elastic properties of solids
paragraph
NOTES:
paragraph
Hooke’s law
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6. Structure of matter
paragraph
NOTES:
paragraph
Use of the kinetic theory of matter to explain diffusion.
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7. Surface tension
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NOTES:
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Definition and effects. Application.
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- Economics syllabus for jamb
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This is all we can take on “2025 Topic based syllabus for wassce(waec) Physics“.
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