Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v4 - SHS 3
BASIC PHYSICS
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BASIC PHYSICS
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Subject: Physics
Class: SHS 3
Term: 1st Term
Week: 6
Grade code: 3.1.1.LI.3
Strand code: 1
Sub-strand code: 1
Content standard code: 3.1.1.CS.3
Indicator code: 3.1.1.LI.3
Theme: MECHANICS AND MATTER
Subtheme: BASIC PHYSICS
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This lesson explores the vast universe beyond our planet. We will journey from the massive structures called galaxies to the birthplaces of stars known as nebulas, and finally understand the process that formed our very own Sun and the planets, including Earth. Understanding this helps us appreciate our place in the cosmos and recognise the universal laws of physics at play. In Ghana, as we advance in technology through institutions like the Ghana Space Science and Technology Institute (GSSTI), knowledge of space science becomes increasingly relevant for future careers and national development.
Part 1: The Birth of Stars and Planets (The Nebular Hypothesis)
This is the most widely accepted scientific theory for how stars and solar systems form.
Step 1: The Nebula (Giant Molecular Cloud) Everything begins in a nebula – a massive, cold, and dense cloud of gas (mostly hydrogen and helium) and dust floating in space. These clouds are enormous, many light-years across.
Step 2: Gravitational Collapse Something triggers the cloud to collapse. This trigger could be the shockwave from a nearby exploding star (a supernova) or the gravitational pull of a passing star. As the cloud collapses, gravity pulls the gas and dust inwards towards the center. The cloud begins to shrink and fragment.