Students get a reality check in physics

The Leaving Certificate higher-level physics exam was a bit different in style to other years, according to Teachers’ Union of Ireland subject spokesperson Michael Gillespie.

But he said students were given the chance to apply practical knowledge of physics to everyday situations. One question asked about conditions needed to see a rainbow and how cigarette smoke might enter a building.

He said the ordinary-level exam was more in keeping with previous papers, but also examined everyday applications of physics like glare-reducing sunglasses and the power consumption of a vacuum cleaner.