JAMB Physics tests your understanding of physical laws, principles, formulas, and applications. It is essential for candidates pursuing Engineering, Medicine, Physics, Computer Science, and related courses.
This syllabus covers mechanics, optics, electricity, waves, modern physics, and thermodynamics — all required for UTME success.
Objectives of the JAMB Physics Syllabus
Candidates should be able to:
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Identify and apply basic physical principles
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Solve numerical problems using relevant formulas
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Interpret graphical data and conduct basic analysis
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Understand experimental setups and measurements
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Connect theoretical physics to real-world phenomena
Structure of the JAMB Physics Examination
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Total Questions: 40
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Question Type: Multiple Choice
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Time Duration: Shared within the 180 minutes of UTME subjects
JAMB Physics Syllabus Topics
1. Measurements and Units
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Fundamental and derived quantities
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S.I. units and prefixes
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Accuracy, errors, and significant figures
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Instruments: vernier caliper, micrometer screw gauge, stopwatch
2. Scalars and Vectors
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Vector and scalar quantities
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Vector representation and addition
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Resolution of vectors
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Components of vectors in two dimensions
3. Motion
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Linear motion: speed, velocity, acceleration
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Equations of motion: s=ut+12at2s = ut + \frac{1}{2}at^2, etc.
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Graphical representation of motion
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Circular motion and projectile motion
4. Gravitation
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Newton’s law of universal gravitation
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Acceleration due to gravity
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Mass vs. weight
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Escape velocity and satellite motion
5. Equilibrium of Forces
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Types of equilibrium
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Conditions for equilibrium
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Moment of a force and couple
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Centre of gravity and stability
6. Work, Energy, and Power
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Work done = force × distance
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Kinetic and potential energy
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Conservation of mechanical energy
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Power and efficiency
7. Machines
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Simple machines: levers, pulleys, inclined plane
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Mechanical advantage, velocity ratio, efficiency
8. Elasticity
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Hooke’s law
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Stress, strain, Young’s modulus
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Springs in series and parallel
9. Pressure
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Pressure in solids, liquids, and gases
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Barometer, manometer
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Pascal’s principle
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Surface tension and capillarity
10. Temperature and Heat
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Heat capacity, specific heat capacity
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Latent heat
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Calorimetry
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Thermal expansion of solids, liquids, gases
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Thermometers and temperature scales
11. Kinetic Theory of Matter
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Assumptions of kinetic theory
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Relationship between temperature and kinetic energy
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Gas laws: Boyle’s, Charles’, and Pressure Law
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Ideal gas equation: PV=nRTPV = nRT
12. Waves
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Types: mechanical, electromagnetic, transverse, longitudinal
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Wave properties: reflection, refraction, diffraction, interference
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Sound waves and light waves
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Applications (e.g., SONAR, musical instruments)
13. Light
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Reflection and refraction
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Lenses and mirrors
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Image formation and ray diagrams
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Optical instruments (microscope, telescope, camera)
14. Electrostatics
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Electric charge and field
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Coulomb’s law
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Capacitors and capacitance
15. Current Electricity
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Ohm’s law
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Resistors in series and parallel
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Electrical energy and power
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Meters: ammeter, voltmeter
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Electromotive force (e.m.f) and internal resistance
16. Magnetism
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Natural and artificial magnets
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Magnetic field and field lines
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Electromagnetism and electromagnetic induction
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Transformers and electric motors
17. Modern Physics
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Photoelectric effect
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Thermionic emission
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Cathode ray oscilloscope (CRO)
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X-rays and radioactivity
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Atomic models
Recommended Books for JAMB Physics
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New School Physics by M.W. Anyakoha
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Lamlad Physics Textbook
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Essential Physics by Afolabi and others
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JAMB Physics Past Questions and Answers
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Physics Practical Workbooks
Study Tips for JAMB Physics
✅ Memorize important formulas and constants
✅ Practice calculations and apply formulas correctly
✅ Study diagrams, graphs, and instruments carefully
✅ Revise past questions consistently
✅ Use a physics calculator and CBT apps for speed
