WJEC GCSE Science Double Award: Kinetic theory (Unit 6, Physics 2) overview
An overview of the Kinetic theory module in WJEC GCSE Science Double Award (Unit 6, Physics 2), mapping the particle model and changes of state, specific heat and changes of state, and gas pressure and temperature.
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The Kinetic theory module gathers the kinetic theory content of Physics 2 in WJEC GCSE Science Double Award. It explains the states of matter, the energy involved in heating and changing state, and the cause of gas pressure, all using the particle model. This page maps the module and links to a focused answer page for each part.
The topics in this module
- The particle model and changes of state
- The three states, density, and changes of state as physical changes. See The particle model and changes of state.
- Specific heat and changes of state
- Specific heat capacity, internal energy, and energy in a change of state. See Specific heat and changes of state.
- Gas pressure and temperature
- Gas pressure from collisions and how it changes with temperature and volume. See Gas pressure and temperature.
How this module fits the exam
These topics sit in Unit 6 (Physics 2), a written paper of 1 hour 15 minutes worth 15%. Questions mix recall (the particle model), calculation (specific heat) and explanation (changes of state, gas pressure).
How to study this module
- Learn the particle model. The three states, density, and the names of the changes of state.
- Master specific heat. The equation E = mc x temperature change and reading heating graphs.
- Understand changes of state. Why the temperature stays constant while a substance melts or boils.
- Explain gas pressure. Particle collisions, and how pressure changes with temperature and volume.
- Link to other topics. Gas pressure and collision theory share the same particle ideas.
Then test yourself with the module quiz.