This article provides the complete JAMB Physics syllabus, key topics, recommended textbooks, preparation tips, and exam insights to help you score high in the Physics section of the UTME.
JAMB Syllabus for Physics 2026/2027
The JAMB Physics syllabus is designed to test candidates’ understanding of fundamental physical principles, scientific reasoning, and problem-solving skills. It also ensures students can apply Physics concepts to real-life situations and technological development.
Below are the official topics and areas of concentration according to the JAMB syllabus.
Measurement and Units
Physical Quantities and Units
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Fundamental and derived quantities
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SI units and prefixes
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Conversion of units
Measurement Techniques
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Accuracy, precision, and errors
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Instruments such as vernier calipers and micrometer screw gauge
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Significant figures
This section tests candidates’ ability to measure and express physical quantities correctly.
Scalars and Vectors
Types of Quantities
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Scalar quantities
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Vector quantities
Vector Operations
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Addition and resolution of vectors
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Parallelogram and triangle methods
Students should be able to distinguish between scalar and vector quantities and solve vector problems.
Motion
Types of Motion
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Linear motion
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Circular motion
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Oscillatory motion
Equations of Motion
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Distance, displacement, speed, and velocity
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Acceleration
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Graphical representation of motion
Understanding motion is fundamental because it connects to many other Physics topics.
Gravitation
Newton’s Law of Gravitation
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Gravitational force
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Acceleration due to gravity
Motion Under Gravity
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Free fall
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Projectile motion
Questions often involve calculations related to gravitational acceleration and motion.
Work, Energy, and Power
Work
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Definition and calculation
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Work done by a force
Energy
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Kinetic energy
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Potential energy
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Conservation of energy
Power
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Rate of doing work
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Efficiency
Candidates must understand energy transformations and practical applications.
Friction
Types of Friction
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Static friction
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Dynamic friction
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Rolling friction
Effects of Friction
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Advantages and disadvantages
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Reduction of friction
This topic often appears in conceptual questions.
Equilibrium of Forces
Conditions for Equilibrium
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Resultant force
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Balanced forces
Moments and Torque
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Principle of moments
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Centre of gravity
Students should be able to analyze forces acting on bodies.
Elasticity
Elastic Behaviour
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Hooke’s law
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Elastic limit
Stress and Strain
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Young’s modulus
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Applications
This topic connects Physics to material science and engineering.
Fluids at Rest and in Motion
Properties of Fluids
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Density and relative density
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Pressure in liquids
Fluid Dynamics
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Archimedes’ principle
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Upthrust and flotation
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Viscosity
Fluid mechanics has practical applications in engineering and medicine.
Thermal Physics
Temperature and Heat
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Measurement of temperature
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Heat transfer methods
Thermal Properties of Matter
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Expansion of solids, liquids, and gases
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Specific heat capacity
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Latent heat
Thermal physics questions often involve calculations and theory.
Gas Laws
Behaviour of Gases
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Boyle’s law
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Charles’ law
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Pressure law
Kinetic Theory of Gases
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Molecular motion
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Gas equations
Candidates should understand how gases behave under different conditions.
Waves
Wave Motion
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Types of waves
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Wave properties
Sound Waves
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Characteristics of sound
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Echo and resonance
Wave questions may involve diagrams and calculations.
Light (Optics)
Reflection of Light
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Laws of reflection
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Plane and curved mirrors
Refraction of Light
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Laws of refraction
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Lenses and optical instruments
Optical Devices
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Microscope
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Telescope
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Camera
Optics is a high-yield topic in JAMB Physics.
Electrostatics
Electric Charges
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Types of charge
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Charging methods
Electric Field
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Field lines
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Potential difference
Students should understand how electric charges interact.
Current Electricity
Electric Current
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Ohm’s law
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Resistance
Electric Circuits
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Series and parallel circuits
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Electrical energy and power
Circuit analysis questions are common in UTME.
Magnetism
Magnetic Fields
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Magnetic materials
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Field patterns
Electromagnetism
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Electromagnets
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Applications
Magnetism connects Physics to electrical technology.
Electromagnetic Induction
Induction Principles
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Faraday’s law
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Lenz’s law
Electrical Machines
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Generator
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Transformer
This topic explains how electricity is produced.
Atomic and Nuclear Physics
Structure of the Atom
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Atomic models
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Electron arrangement
Radioactivity
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Types of radiation
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Half-life
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Nuclear energy
Modern Physics questions often come from this section.
Electronics
Semiconductor Devices
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Diodes
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Transistors
Basic Electronic Circuits
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Rectifiers
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Amplifiers
Electronics is important for technology-related courses.
Objectives of the JAMB Physics Syllabus
The Physics syllabus aims to ensure candidates can:
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Understand basic physical principles
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Apply Physics concepts to real situations
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Solve numerical and theoretical problems
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Interpret scientific data and graphs
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Appreciate Physics in technology and society
JAMB Exams Format For Physics
The Physics section of UTME typically includes:
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40 multiple-choice questions
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Time shared with other subjects
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Calculations and theory questions
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Diagram interpretation
Strong mathematical skills are essential for success.
Best Tips to Pass JAMB Physics
Study the Official Syllabus
Focus only on the listed topics to avoid wasting time.
Practice Calculations
Most Physics questions involve formulas and numbers.
Use Past Questions
JAMB repeats question patterns frequently.
Master Formulas
Know formulas for motion, electricity, waves, and heat.
Understand Concepts
Do not memorize blindly; understand principles.
Recommended Books for JAMB Physics
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New School Physics by Ababio
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Essential Physics by Okeke
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JAMB Physics Past Questions
These materials align closely with the syllabus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Physics compulsory for Science Students in JAMB?
Yes. Physics is required for science and engineering courses such as Engineering, Medicine, Computer Science, and Physics.
How many questions come from Physics in JAMB?
Candidates answer about 40 Physics questions in UTME.
Is JAMB Physics difficult?
It can be challenging, but studying the syllabus and practicing past questions makes it easier.
Conclusion
The JAMB syllabus for Physics is your roadmap to success in the UTME. It clearly lists all the topics you need to cover, from mechanics and heat to electricity and modern Physics. By studying each section thoroughly, practicing calculations, and using past questions, you can score high in JAMB Physics.
If you are preparing for the 2026/2027 UTME, start early, follow the syllabus strictly, and focus on understanding concepts rather than memorization. With consistent preparation, success in JAMB Physics is achievable.