NSSCO Physics (6118) study guide
NSSCO Physics (6118) · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
NSSCO Physics (subject code 6118) is the Ordinary Level physics qualification taken at the end of Grade 11 in Namibia's senior secondary school system. It is aimed at learners who need a solid grounding in physics either as preparation for AS Level study or as a supporting subject for technical, health and engineering-related pathways, and it is also used by candidates who are returning to study or improving results part-time. The NSSCO Physics (6118) study guide has 8 sections and about 3,059 words.
01Measurement and Units
Measurement and Units is the toolkit domain: the exam checks that you can choose and use SI units, convert prefixes confidently, read instruments to the correct precision, and handle density and uncertainty without losing marks. SI base units: length metre (m), mass kilogram (kg), time second (s), electric current ampere (A), thermodynamic temperature kelvin (K), amount mole (mol), luminous intensity candela (cd).
377 words, about 2 min02Kinematics and Dynamics: Motion
This domain tests how well you describe motion in one dimension and connect words, graphs and equations. Expect questions on scalars and vectors, distance and displacement, speed and velocity, acceleration, motion graphs, and uniformly accelerated motion including free fall.
401 words, about 2 min03Forces and Momentum
Forces and Momentum examines Newton’s laws, resultant forces, friction, weight, momentum and impulse. You must be able to explain motion in terms of forces and to solve collision and explosion problems using conservation of momentum.
393 words, about 2 min04Work, Energy, Power and Pressure
This domain connects mechanical energy transfer with pressure in solids and fluids. The exam tests work done by a force, kinetic and gravitational potential energy, conservation of energy, power, efficiency, and pressure in liquids and hydraulic systems.
372 words, about 2 min05Thermal Physics
Thermal Physics tests the difference between heat and temperature, the Kelvin scale, specific heat capacity, latent heat, thermal expansion, and the three mechanisms of heat transfer. Expect calculations involving energy and phase change, plus explanations using the particle model.
386 words, about 2 min06Waves, Sound and Light
Waves, Sound and Light tests wave terminology, the wave equation, reflection, refraction, diffraction, sound as a longitudinal wave, echoes, and light behaviour including Snell’s law and total internal reflection. You should be able to describe wave diagrams and solve numerical problems.
375 words, about 2 min07Electricity and Magnetism
Electricity and Magnetism tests current, potential difference, resistance, Ohm’s law, series and parallel circuits, electrical power and energy, plus magnetic fields, electromagnets, the motor effect and electromagnetic induction. Current I = Q/t is the rate of flow of charge; conventional current is from positive to negative.
389 words, about 2 min08Atomic and Nuclear Physics
Atomic and Nuclear Physics tests atomic structure, isotopes, radioactivity, alpha, beta and gamma radiation, half-life, nuclear equations, fission and fusion, and radiation safety. You should be able to interpret decay data and balance nuclear equations.
366 words, about 2 min