Study Notes: Physics (SSC CGL General Awareness)

Overview

Physics questions in SSC CGL Tier 1 typically account for 3–5 marks within the General Science section. The exam tests basic conceptual understanding rather than numerical problem-solving. Questions are fact-based and focus on everyday applications of physical principles—how devices work, units of measurement, laws and their discoverers, and fundamental phenomena.

The syllabus covers four broad areas: **Mechanics** (motion, force, energy), **Electricity** (current, circuits, devices), **Optics** (light, mirrors, lenses), and **Modern Physics** (atomic structure, radioactivity, recent discoveries). Success requires memorizing key definitions, units, laws, and real-world applications. Students should focus on static facts—SI units, scientist-discovery pairs, and how common instruments operate—rather than derivations or complex calculations.

This topic integrates well with Chemistry and Biology in the General Science section, and understanding basic physics improves performance on technology-related Current Affairs questions.

Key Concepts

• **Force and Motion**: Newton's three laws govern all motion. First law (inertia), second law (F = ma), third law (action-reaction). Understand friction as a force opposing motion and gravity as the force attracting objects toward Earth.