Learners will be introduced to quantum physics concepts, including atoms, subatomic particles (protons, neutrons, electrons), electromagnetism and photons. Students will also explore to the practical applications of quantum physics for modern life by exploring technologies for electricity generation through magnetic induction and solar cells. A detailed description of each session's learning goals are listed below:
- Session 1, Magnetism & You Students will learn about: - Atoms and subatomic particles (protons, neutrons and electrons) - The cause of magnetism on the atomic level (electron spin) - The Earth's magnetic field, how compasses work, animals that use the magnetic field to navigate - Permanent magnets - Electromagnets - How electric motors work - How maglev (magnetic levitation) devices work
- Session 2, Magnetic Induction Electricity Students will learn about: - Atoms and subatomic particles (protons, neutrons and electrons) - The discovery of electricity as a flow of electrical charge (via electrons) - A key method of electricity generation: magnetic induction. Even with the growth of solar-generated electricity, magnetic induction still provides 90% of electricity worldwide. - Various forms of magnetic induction electricity generation (such as coal, hydroelectric, nuclear and wind power), with an analysis of their respective strengths and weaknesses.
- Session 3, Photons & You Students will learn about: - Photons as tiny units of radiated electromagnetic energy - How photons are released by atoms as electrons change energy levels - The dual aspects of photons as both particle and wave - How the sun emits photons that provide essential energy for earth's life forms - The visible light spectrum - The electromagnetic radiation spectrum, from large radio waves to tiny gamma waves
- Session 4, Solar Energy and Solar-Powered Electricity Students will learn about: - The different types of solar energy (thermal energy, light energy) - Inventions that utilize solar thermal energy - Inventions that utilize photovoltaic solar cells - How silicon photovoltaic cells work on an atomic level - The pros and cons of solar energy - How inventors continue to develop new ways to utilize solar energy