Physics of energy and communication

In this unit, students explored the history of energy generation, tracing its development from fossil fuel–based technologies such as steam engines and the modern four-stroke engine to the renewable energy revolution that is reshaping Australia’s energy market. They conducted scientific investigations into wind power, using the experimental process to determine the optimum blade angle and number of blades needed to maximise the voltage generated by a wind turbine. Building on this understanding, students constructed working electric motors using copper wire and magnets, as well as Morse code communication devices powered by electromagnets, giving them a practical understanding of electricity and electromagnetism.