Physics

Grade 9 Physics – Test Scope / Study Guide

1. Understanding Motion and Graphs

• Interpret position-time graphs.

• Understand that the slope of a position-time graph represents velocity.

• Recognize that a curve on a graph indicates acceleration.

2. Scalars vs Vectors

• Know which quantities are scalar (magnitude only) and which are vector

(magnitude + direction):

o Scalar: Speed, Distance, Time

o Vector: Acceleration, Displacement, Velocity

3. Newton’s First Law

• Understand inertia: An object stays at rest or in uniform motion unless acted on by

an unbalanced force.

4. Braking and Stopping Distance

• Know what affects braking distance:

o Speed, road surface, tire condition, brake condition.

• Understand total stopping distance

• Braking Distance

5. Key Calculations

• Average Velocity

• Momentum

• Acceleration

• Reaction Distance

• Braking Distance and Total Stopping Distance based on conditions

6. Graph Skills

• Be able to sketch and label a velocity-time graph.

• Describe the motion of an object based on sections of a graph (speeding up,

constant speed, slowing down).

7. Car Collisions and Inertia

• Understand why unrestrained occupants continue moving forward after a crash

(inertia).

8. Factors Affecting Driving

• Name internal factors that could negatively impact driving, e.g.:

o Fatigue

o Alcohol or drugs

o Emotional stress