GCSE Physics · AQA 8463 · Topic 4.8
Space physics
Key points
- The Solar System formed from a cloud of dust and gas (a nebula) pulled together by gravity. Our Sun is one star in the Milky Way galaxy.
- Stars are stable during the main sequence because outward pressure from fusion balances inward gravity.
- A star's life cycle depends on its mass: Sun-sized stars become white dwarfs; much bigger stars explode as supernovae and leave neutron stars or black holes.
- Elements heavier than iron are made in supernovae.
- Gravity keeps planets, moons and satellites in circular orbits: the speed changes direction, so the velocity changes.
- Red-shift of light from distant galaxies shows the universe is expanding and supports the Big Bang theory.
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Space physics takes the ideas from the rest of the course, especially gravity, nuclear fusion and waves, and applies them to the largest scales there are: stars, planets, galaxies and the universe itself. It has few equations, so…
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