Physics PC (Eng. Prep year 2) Revision Sheets
Physics in PC heavily deepens areas covered in PCSI: mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, wave optics. PC differs from MP by a more experimental and less purely formalized approach.
Physics curriculum in PC (Eng. Prep year 2)
The curriculum covers complete electromagnetism (Maxwell's equations, EM waves, propagation in media), solid mechanics (non-Galilean frames), advanced thermodynamics (phase transitions, chemical equilibria, machines), wave optics (interference, diffraction, lasers), wave physics (mechanical, acoustic), and introduction to quantum mechanics. A significant portion is dedicated to lab work and measurement.
How to study physics in PC (Eng. Prep year 2)?
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Tips to succeed in physics PC (Eng. Prep year 2)
PC values experimental mastery: invest seriously in lab work, protocols, measurement uncertainties
Master Maxwell's equations (4 equations) in BOTH integral and local forms — expected
For wave optics, redo all classical diagrams (Young, Michelson, Fabry-Pérot, grating) until you can draw without looking
Link physics and chemistry: chemical equilibria thermodynamics is transversal between the two subjects
FAQ — Physics PC (Eng. Prep year 2)
Difference between MP and PC physics?
The curriculum is largely identical in year two (Maxwell, thermo, optics, basic quantum) but approach differs. MP is more formalist and mathematical: rigorous proofs, theoretical openness (more advanced quantum mechanics, statistical physics). PC is more experimental: more lab work, more attention to orders of magnitude, opening toward physical chemistry (kinetics, electrochemistry). At concours, physics exams are calibrated differently per chosen option.
How to succeed in PC concours physics lab?
Lab exam at concours (Mines, Centrale) lasts 4h and tests: 1) Understanding of provided experimental protocol, 2) Measurement execution with rigor (instruments, error sources), 3) Data processing (type A and B uncertainty calculation, propagation), 4) Critical results analysis (theory comparison, gap sources). Practice minimum 30 different labs in year two with detailed manipulation notebook. The exam where PC most distinguishes from MP.
PC or PSI: which path after PCSI?
PC (Physics-Chemistry) deepens chemistry AND physics with strong experimental component. Aim for PC if you like chemistry, experimental physics, and envision pharmaceutical, food, energy industry, or ENS Chemistry. PSI (Physics and Engineering Sciences) deepens physics AND engineering sciences with engineering objective. Aim for PSI if you like mechanics, automation, and envision classical engineering schools (Mines, Centrale, Arts et Métiers, INSA). Chemistry/engineering coefficients invert in your favor per your choice.
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