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Thinka Jun 2023 Cambridge International A Level-Style Mock — Physics (YPH11)

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An original Thinka practice paper modelled on the structure and difficulty of the Jun 2023 Cambridge International A Level Physics (YPH11) paper. Not affiliated with or reproduced from Cambridge.

Unit 1 Section A

Answer all ten multiple choice questions. Choose the single best response.
10 PastPaper.question · 10 PastPaper.marks
PastPaper.question 1 · multiple-choice
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A projectile is launched from horizontal ground with an initial velocity \(u\) at an angle \(\theta\) above the horizontal. Air resistance is negligible. Which of the following describes how the kinetic energy \(E_k\) of the projectile varies with its horizontal displacement \(x\) from the launch point?
  1. A.A parabola that opens upwards, with a non-zero minimum value.
  2. B.A parabola that opens upwards, with a minimum value of zero.
  3. C.A straight line that decreases to a minimum and then increases.
  4. D.A parabola that opens downwards, with a maximum value at the peak of the trajectory.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The horizontal velocity is constant: \(v_x = u \cos\theta\). The vertical velocity at any time \(t\) is \(v_y = u \sin\theta - gt\). Since \(x = (u \cos\theta)t\), we have \(t = \frac{x}{u \cos\theta}\), which gives \(v_y = u \sin\theta - \frac{gx}{u \cos\theta}\). The kinetic energy is \(E_k = \frac{1}{2}m(v_x^2 + v_y^2) = \frac{1}{2}m\left(u^2\cos^2\theta + \left(u\sin\theta - \frac{gx}{u \cos\theta}\right)^2\right)\). Expanding this yields a quadratic equation in \(x\) with a positive coefficient for the \(x^2\) term, which describes a parabola that opens upwards. At the peak of the trajectory, \(v_y = 0\), so the kinetic energy is at its minimum value: \(E_{k,\text{min}} = \frac{1}{2}m u^2 \cos^2\theta\). Since \(\theta < 90^\circ\), this minimum value is non-zero. Therefore, the correct option is A.

PastPaper.markingScheme

[1 mark] A - A parabola that opens upwards, with a non-zero minimum value. Award 1 mark for the correct choice.
PastPaper.question 2 · multiple-choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A small sphere of radius \(r\) and density \(\rho_s\) is released from rest in a tall cylinder containing a liquid of density \(\rho_l\) and viscosity \(\eta\). The sphere reaches a terminal velocity \(v\). Which of the following expressions represents the terminal velocity \(v\)?
  1. A.\(v = \frac{2r^2(\rho_s - \rho_l)g}{9\eta}\)
  2. B.\(v = \frac{2r^2(\rho_s + \rho_l)g}{9\eta}\)
  3. C.\(v = \frac{9\eta}{2r^2(\rho_s - \rho_l)g}\)
  4. D.\(v = \frac{2r^2(\rho_s - \rho_l)g}{3\eta}\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

At terminal velocity, the upward forces balance the downward force: \(U + F_d = W\) where weight \(W = \frac{4}{3}\pi r^3 \rho_s g\), upthrust \(U = \frac{4}{3}\pi r^3 \rho_l g\), and viscous drag \(F_d = 6\pi\eta r v\) (by Stokes' Law). Substituting these into the balance equation: \(\frac{4}{3}\pi r^3 \rho_l g + 6\pi\eta r v = \frac{4}{3}\pi r^3 \rho_s g\), which simplifies to \(6\pi\eta r v = \frac{4}{3}\pi r^3 (\rho_s - \rho_l)g\). Solving for \(v\) gives: \(v = \frac{2r^2(\rho_s - \rho_l)g}{9\eta}\). Therefore, the correct option is A.

PastPaper.markingScheme

[1 mark] A - Correctly derived terminal velocity formula. Award 1 mark for the correct choice.
PastPaper.question 3 · multiple-choice
1 PastPaper.marks
An electric motor with an efficiency of \(65\%\) is used to lift a mass of \(120\text{ kg}\) vertically upwards through a height of \(8.0\text{ m}\) in a time of \(5.0\text{ s}\). What is the minimum electrical input power to the motor?
  1. A.\(1.2\text{ kW}\)
  2. B.\(1.9\text{ kW}\)
  3. C.\(2.9\text{ kW}\)
  4. D.\(4.5\text{ kW}\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

1. Calculate the useful work output: \(W_{\text{out}} = mgh = 120\text{ kg} \times 9.81\text{ m s}^{-2} \times 8.0\text{ m} = 9417.6\text{ J}\). 2. Calculate the useful power output: \(P_{\text{out}} = \frac{W_{\text{out}}}{t} = \frac{9417.6\text{ J}}{5.0\text{ s}} = 1883.5\text{ W}\). 3. Calculate the required electrical input power: \(\text{Efficiency} = \frac{P_{\text{out}}}{P_{\text{in}}} \implies P_{\text{in}} = \frac{P_{\text{out}}}{0.65} = \frac{1883.5\text{ W}}{0.65} = 2897.7\text{ W} \approx 2.9\text{ kW}\). Therefore, the correct option is C.

PastPaper.markingScheme

[1 mark] C - 2.9 kW. Award 1 mark for the correct choice.
PastPaper.question 4 · multiple-choice
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A wire of length \(L\) and cross-sectional area \(A\) is stretched by a force \(F\), extending by \(\Delta L\). A second wire of the same material has a length of \(2L\) and a cross-sectional area of \(2A\). If the second wire is stretched by the same force \(F\), what is its extension?
  1. A.\(\frac{1}{2}\Delta L\)
  2. B.\(\Delta L\)
  3. C.\(2\Delta L\)
  4. D.\(4\Delta L\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The Young's Modulus \(E\) of the material is given by \(E = \frac{\text{Stress}}{\text{Strain}} = \frac{F/A}{\Delta L/L} = \frac{FL}{A\Delta L}\). Rearranging for extension gives \(\Delta L = \frac{FL}{AE}\). For the second wire of the same material, the Young's Modulus is the same. The extension under the same force is \(\Delta L_2 = \frac{F(2L)}{(2A)E} = \frac{FL}{AE} = \Delta L\). Therefore, the correct option is B.

PastPaper.markingScheme

[1 mark] B - \(\Delta L\). Award 1 mark for the correct choice.
PastPaper.question 5 · multiple-choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A ball of mass \(0.15\text{ kg}\) collides normally with a flat vertical wall at a speed of \(12\text{ m s}^{-1}\). It rebounds normally with a speed of \(8.0\text{ m s}^{-1}\). The ball is in contact with the wall for a time of \(0.040\text{ s}\). What is the average force exerted on the wall by the ball during this collision?
  1. A.\(15\text{ N}\)
  2. B.\(30\text{ N}\)
  3. C.\(45\text{ N}\)
  4. D.\(75\text{ N}\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

Using Newton's Second Law, the average force \(F\) on the ball is given by the rate of change of momentum: \(F = \frac{\Delta p}{\Delta t} = \frac{m(v - u)}{\Delta t}\). Letting the direction away from the wall be positive: \(u = -12\text{ m s}^{-1}\) and \(v = +8.0\text{ m s}^{-1}\). Thus, \(\Delta p = m(v - u) = 0.15\text{ kg} \times (8.0\text{ m s}^{-1} - (-12\text{ m s}^{-1})) = 3.0\text{ N s}\). The average force is \(F = \frac{3.0\text{ N s}}{0.040\text{ s}} = 75\text{ N}\). By Newton's Third Law, the force exerted on the wall is also \(75\text{ N}\). Therefore, the correct option is D.

PastPaper.markingScheme

[1 mark] D - 75 N. Award 1 mark for the correct choice.
PastPaper.question 6 · multiple-choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A metal wire is stretched. The force-extension graph shows a linear relationship up to a force of \(100\text{ N}\) at an extension of \(2.0\text{ mm}\). The wire is stretched further into its plastic region, where a maximum force of \(120\text{ N}\) produces an extension of \(5.0\text{ mm}\). This region is also modeled as linear. The force is then reduced elastically to zero, resulting in a permanent extension of \(1.5\text{ mm}\). What is the net work done on the wire to produce this plastic deformation?
  1. A.\(0.10\text{ J}\)
  2. B.\(0.21\text{ J}\)
  3. C.\(0.22\text{ J}\)
  4. D.\(0.43\text{ J}\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

1. Work done during loading: Work in elastic region is \(W_1 = \frac{1}{2} \times 100\text{ N} \times 2.0 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m} = 0.10\text{ J}\). Work in plastic loading region is \(W_2 = \frac{100\text{ N} + 120\text{ N}}{2} \times (5.0 - 2.0) \times 10^{-3}\text{ m} = 0.33\text{ J}\). Total loading work is \(W_{\text{load}} = 0.10 + 0.33 = 0.43\text{ J}\). 2. Work recovered during unloading: \(W_{\text{unload}} = \frac{1}{2} \times 120\text{ N} \times (5.0 - 1.5) \times 10^{-3}\text{ m} = 0.21\text{ J}\). 3. Net work done: \(\Delta W = 0.43\text{ J} - 0.21\text{ J} = 0.22\text{ J}\). Therefore, the correct option is C.

PastPaper.markingScheme

[1 mark] C - 0.22 J. Award 1 mark for the correct choice.
PastPaper.question 7 · multiple-choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A uniform beam of length \(4.0\text{ m}\) and weight \(150\text{ N}\) is suspended horizontally by two vertical ropes attached at its ends. A heavy box of weight \(300\text{ N}\) is placed on the beam at a distance of \(1.0\text{ m}\) from the left end. What is the tension in the right-hand rope?
  1. A.\(75\text{ N}\)
  2. B.\(150\text{ N}\)
  3. C.\(225\text{ N}\)
  4. D.\(300\text{ N}\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

Let \(T_L\) and \(T_R\) be the tensions in the left and right ropes respectively. The weight of the uniform beam acts at its midpoint (\(2.0\text{ m}\) from either end). Taking moments about the left end: \(\sum M_{\text{left}} = 0 \implies (300\text{ N} \times 1.0\text{ m}) + (150\text{ N} \times 2.0\text{ m}) - (T_R \times 4.0\text{ m}) = 0\), which simplifies to \(300 + 300 = 4 T_R \implies T_R = 150\text{ N}\). Therefore, the correct option is B.

PastPaper.markingScheme

[1 mark] B - 150 N. Award 1 mark for the correct choice.
PastPaper.question 8 · multiple-choice
1 PastPaper.marks
An object is dropped from rest from the top of a tall tower. It covers a vertical distance \(h\) in the first \(T\) seconds of its motion. Air resistance is negligible. What vertical distance does the object cover during the next time interval from \(t = T\) to \(t = 2T\)?
  1. A.\(h\)
  2. B.\(2h\)
  3. C.\(3h\)
  4. D.\(4h\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

Using the equation of motion \(s = ut + \frac{1}{2}gt^2\) with \(u = 0\): For the first interval \(t = T\), \(s_1 = h = \frac{1}{2}gT^2\). For the total interval up to \(t = 2T\), \(s_2 = \frac{1}{2}g(2T)^2 = 4 \left(\frac{1}{2}gT^2\right) = 4h\). The distance covered between \(t = T\) and \(t = 2T\) is \(\Delta s = s_2 - s_1 = 4h - h = 3h\). Therefore, the correct option is C.

PastPaper.markingScheme

[1 mark] C - \(3h\). Award 1 mark for the correct choice.
PastPaper.question 9 · multiple-choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A vehicle of mass \(m\) starts from rest and accelerates along a straight horizontal path with a constant acceleration \(a\). Which of the following expressions represents the instantaneous power \(P\) delivered to the vehicle after it has travelled a distance \(s\)?
  1. A.\(m \sqrt{2a^3s}\)
  2. B.\(m \sqrt{2as}\)
  3. C.\(ma \sqrt{2s}\)
  4. D.\(2mas\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

Using the equation of motion with constant acceleration:
\[v^2 = u^2 + 2as\]
Since the vehicle starts from rest, the initial velocity \(u = 0\), so:
\[v = \sqrt{2as}\]

The net force accelerating the vehicle is given by Newton's second law:
\[F = ma\]

Instantaneous power \(P\) is the product of the force and the instantaneous velocity:
\[P = Fv = ma \sqrt{2as}\]

This can be simplified by bringing \(a\) inside the square root:
\[P = m \sqrt{a^2 \times 2as} = m \sqrt{2a^3s}\]

Therefore, option A is the correct expression.

PastPaper.markingScheme

**[1 Mark]**
* **A** - Correctly identifies the expression for instantaneous power by combining \(v = \sqrt{2as}\) and \(F = ma\) to obtain \(P = m\sqrt{2a^3s}\).
PastPaper.question 10 · multiple-choice
1 PastPaper.marks
Two wires, X and Y, are made of the same material. Wire X has length \(L\) and diameter \(d\). Wire Y has length \(2L\) and diameter \(2d\). Both wires obey Hooke's law and are subjected to the same tensile force \(F\).

What is the ratio \(\frac{E_{\text{X}}}{E_{\text{Y}}}\) of the elastic strain energy stored in wire X to that stored in wire Y?
  1. A.\(\frac{1}{4}\)
  2. B.\(\frac{1}{2}\)
  3. C.\(2\)
  4. D.\(4\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The elastic strain energy \(E\) stored in a wire under tension is given by:
\[E = \frac{1}{2} F \Delta L\]

The extension \(\Delta L\) is related to the Young modulus \(E_y\) of the material by:
\[\Delta L = \frac{FL}{A E_y}\]

Substituting \(\Delta L\) into the energy expression gives:
\[E = \frac{F^2 L}{2 A E_y}\]

Since both wires are made of the same material, they have the same Young modulus \(E_y\). Since they are also subjected to the same force \(F\), the energy stored is proportional to:
\[E \propto \frac{L}{A}\]

Since cross-sectional area \(A = \frac{\pi d^2}{4} \propto d^2\), we can write:
\[E \propto \frac{L}{d^2}\]

For wire X:
\[E_{\text{X}} \propto \frac{L}{d^2}\]

For wire Y:
\[E_{\text{Y}} \propto \frac{2L}{(2d)^2} = \frac{2L}{4d^2} = \frac{L}{2d^2}\]

Dividing the two values:
\[\frac{E_{\text{X}}}{E_{\text{Y}}} = \frac{L / d^2}{L / (2d^2)} = 2\]

Therefore, option C is correct.

PastPaper.markingScheme

**[1 Mark]**
* **C** - Correctly calculates the ratio of the stored elastic strain energies as 2.

Unit 1 Section B

Answer all structured, descriptive, and numerical questions in the spaces provided.
10 PastPaper.question · 70 PastPaper.marks
PastPaper.question 1 · Structured
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A medieval archer fires an arrow from the top of a castle wall at a height of \(12.0\text{ m}\) above horizontal ground. The arrow is launched with an initial velocity of \(25.0\text{ m s}^{-1}\) at an angle of \(30.0^\circ\) above the horizontal.

(a) Show that the initial vertical component of the velocity is \(12.5\text{ m s}^{-1}\). (1 mark)

(b) Calculate the time taken for the arrow to reach the ground. (4 marks)

(c) Calculate the horizontal distance from the base of the wall to the point where the arrow lands, assuming air resistance is negligible. (2 marks)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

Let upwards be the positive vertical direction.

(a) The initial vertical component of velocity is given by:
\( v_{iy} = v \sin\theta = 25.0\text{ m s}^{-1} \times \sin(30.0^\circ) = 12.5\text{ m s}^{-1} \)

(b) To find the total flight time, we use the vertical displacement formula:
\( s = ut + \frac{1}{2}at^2 \)
Here, vertical displacement \( s = -12.0\text{ m} \), vertical initial velocity \( u = 12.5\text{ m s}^{-1} \), and vertical acceleration \( a = -9.81\text{ m s}^{-2} \).
\( -12.0 = 12.5t - \frac{1}{2}(9.81)t^2 \)
\( 4.905t^2 - 12.5t - 12.0 = 0 \)
Using the quadratic formula:
\( t = \frac{-(-12.5) \pm \sqrt{(-12.5)^2 - 4(4.905)(-12.0)}}{2 \times 4.905} \)
\( t = \frac{12.5 \pm \sqrt{156.25 + 235.44}}{9.81} \)
\( t = \frac{12.5 \pm 19.79}{9.81} \)
Taking the positive root:
\( t = \frac{32.29}{9.81} = 3.29\text{ s} \)

(c) The horizontal velocity is constant because air resistance is negligible:
\( v_x = v \cos\theta = 25.0\text{ m s}^{-1} \times \cos(30.0^\circ) = 21.65\text{ m s}^{-1} \)

The horizontal distance travelled is:
\( s_x = v_x \times t = 21.65\text{ m s}^{-1} \times 3.291\text{ s} = 71.3\text{ m} \) (or \(71.2\text{ m}\) if using rounded value of \(t = 3.29\text{ s}\)).

PastPaper.markingScheme

**Part (a)** [1 Mark]
* Correct calculation showing \(v_{iy} = 25.0 \sin(30.0^\circ) = 12.5\text{ m s}^{-1}\) (1)

**Part (b)** [4 Marks]
* Uses vertical SUVAT with correct signs, e.g., \(-12 = 12.5t - 4.905t^2\) (1)
* Rearranges to form a standard quadratic equation (1)
* Correct substitution of values into the quadratic formula (1)
* Obtains a final time of \(3.29\text{ s}\) (1) *(accept answers rounding to 3.3 s)*

**Part (c)** [2 Marks]
* Calculates the horizontal component of velocity: \(v_x = 21.65\text{ m s}^{-1}\) (1)
* Calculates correct horizontal distance: \(71.2\text{ m}\) or \(71.3\text{ m}\) (1)
PastPaper.question 2 · Structured
7 PastPaper.marks
A student investigates the elastic properties of a spring system. Two identical springs, each of unstretched length \(0.150\text{ m}\) and spring constant \(k = 120\text{ N m}^{-1}\), are connected in series. A load of mass \(0.850\text{ kg}\) is suspended from the bottom of the series combination.

(a) Show that the effective spring constant of the series combination is \(60\text{ N m}^{-1}\). (2 marks)

(b) Calculate the total extension of the two-spring system. (2 marks)

(c) Calculate the total elastic strain energy stored in the system. (3 marks)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) For two springs connected in series, the reciprocal of the effective spring constant \(k_{\text{eff}}\) is the sum of the reciprocals of individual spring constants:
\( \frac{1}{k_{\text{eff}}} = \frac{1}{k} + \frac{1}{k} = \frac{2}{120\text{ N m}^{-1}} \)
\( k_{\text{eff}} = \frac{120}{2} = 60\text{ N m}^{-1} \)

(b) The tension force in the combination is equal to the gravitational force acting on the suspended load:
\( F = mg = 0.850\text{ kg} \times 9.81\text{ m s}^{-2} = 8.3385\text{ N} \)
Using Hooke's Law:
\( F = k_{\text{eff}} \Delta x \implies \Delta x = \frac{F}{k_{\text{eff}}} = \frac{8.3385\text{ N}}{60\text{ N m}^{-1}} = 0.139\text{ m} \)

(c) The elastic strain energy \(E_{\text{el}}\) stored in the system is given by:
\( E_{\text{el}} = \frac{1}{2} F \Delta x = \frac{1}{2} \times 8.3385\text{ N} \times 0.139\text{ m} = 0.579\text{ J} \)
Alternatively:
\( E_{\text{el}} = \frac{1}{2} k_{\text{eff}} (\Delta x)^2 = \frac{1}{2} \times 60\text{ N m}^{-1} \times (0.139\text{ m})^2 = 0.579\text{ J} \)

PastPaper.markingScheme

**Part (a)** [2 Marks]
* Uses series combination equation: \(\frac{1}{k_{\text{eff}}} = \frac{1}{k_1} + \frac{1}{k_2}\) (1)
* Obtains value of \(60\text{ N m}^{-1}\) (1)

**Part (b)** [2 Marks]
* Calculates suspended load force \(F = 8.34\text{ N}\) (1)
* Calculates extension \(\Delta x = 0.139\text{ m}\) (or \(0.14\text{ m}\)) (1)

**Part (c)** [3 Marks]
* Recalls elastic strain energy equation \(E_{\text{el}} = \frac{1}{2}F\Delta x\) or \(E_{\text{el}} = \frac{1}{2}k(\Delta x)^2\) (1)
* Substitutes correct values into selected equation (1)
* Correct calculation of stored energy \(E_{\text{el}} = 0.579\text{ J}\) (1) *(accept range 0.578 J - 0.583 J depending on rounding)*
PastPaper.question 3 · Structured
7 PastPaper.marks
A wooden block of mass \(3.20\text{ kg}\) is placed on a rough ramp inclined at \(25.0^\circ\) to the horizontal. The block is released from rest and accelerates down the slope. A constant frictional force of \(5.50\text{ N}\) acts on the block as it slides.

(a) Draw a labelled free-body force diagram for the wooden block sliding down the ramp. (3 marks)

(b) Calculate the acceleration of the block down the ramp. (4 marks)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) A free-body force diagram must include three distinct forces with arrows originating on the block:
1. Weight (or force of gravity, \(W\)) acting vertically downwards.
2. Normal contact force (\(R\) or \(N\)) acting perpendicular to, and outwards from, the ramp surface.
3. Friction (\(F_{\text{friction}}\)) acting parallel to the ramp pointing up the ramp (opposing the direction of motion).

(b) First, resolve the weight component acting parallel to the ramp (downwards):
\( W_{\parallel} = mg \sin\theta = 3.20\text{ kg} \times 9.81\text{ m s}^{-2} \times \sin(25.0^\circ) = 31.392\text{ N} \times 0.4226 = 13.27\text{ N} \)

Next, apply Newton's second law along the direction parallel to the ramp:
\( F_{\text{net}} = W_{\parallel} - F_{\text{friction}} = ma \)
\( 13.27\text{ N} - 5.50\text{ N} = 3.20\text{ kg} \times a \)
\( 7.77\text{ N} = 3.20\text{ kg} \times a \)
\( a = \frac{7.77\text{ N}}{3.20\text{ kg}} = 2.43\text{ m s}^{-2} \)

PastPaper.markingScheme

**Part (a)** [3 Marks]
* Draw and label Weight vertically downwards (1)
* Draw and label Normal contact force perpendicular to the ramp (1)
* Draw and label Friction parallel to and up the ramp (1)
*(Note: Arrows must point in the correct directions and start on the block)*

**Part (b)** [4 Marks]
* Identifies gravity component down the slope as \(mg \sin\theta\) (1)
* Calculates value of gravity component down slope \(= 13.27\text{ N}\) (1)
* Applies \(F_{\text{net}} = ma\) with both forces subtracted (1)
* Obtains final acceleration \(a = 2.43\text{ m s}^{-2}\) (1) *(accept 2.4 m s^-2)*
PastPaper.question 4 · Structured
7 PastPaper.marks
A copper wire of length \(2.40\text{ m}\) and cross-sectional area \(3.50 \times 10^{-7}\text{ m}^2\) is suspended vertically from a rigid support. A mass of \(4.50\text{ kg}\) is hung from the lower end of the wire.
[Young modulus of copper = \(1.20 \times 10^{11}\text{ Pa}\)]

(a) Calculate the tensile stress in the wire. (2 marks)

(b) Calculate the extension produced in the wire, assuming it behaves elastically. (3 marks)

(c) Explain what is meant by the 'elastic limit' of a material. (2 marks)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) The tension force in the wire is equal to the weight of the suspended mass:
\( F = mg = 4.50\text{ kg} \times 9.81\text{ m s}^{-2} = 44.145\text{ N} \)
Tensile stress is defined as:
\( \sigma = \frac{F}{A} = \frac{44.145\text{ N}}{3.50 \times 10^{-7}\text{ m}^2} = 1.261 \times 10^8\text{ Pa} \)

(b) The definition of the Young modulus is:
\( E = \frac{\text{stress}}{\text{strain}} = \frac{\sigma}{\varepsilon} \implies \varepsilon = \frac{\sigma}{E} \)
\( \varepsilon = \frac{1.261 \times 10^8\text{ Pa}}{1.20 \times 10^{11}\text{ Pa}} = 1.051 \times 10^{-3} \)
Since strain is defined as \( \varepsilon = \frac{\Delta L}{L_0} \):
\( \Delta L = \varepsilon \times L_0 = 1.051 \times 10^{-3} \times 2.40\text{ m} = 2.52 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m} = 2.52\text{ mm} \)

(c) The elastic limit of a material refers to the maximum stress or force that can be applied to it such that, when the load is removed, the material returns to its original shape and length. If the stress exceeds this limit, the material undergoes permanent (plastic) deformation and will be permanently stretched.

PastPaper.markingScheme

**Part (a)** [2 Marks]
* Uses \(F = mg\) and recalls \(\sigma = \frac{F}{A}\) (1)
* Calculates stress \(\sigma = 1.26 \times 10^8\text{ Pa}\) (1) *(accept 1.3 × 10^8 Pa)*

**Part (b)** [3 Marks]
* Uses \(E = \frac{\text{stress}}{\text{strain}}\) to find strain \(= 1.05 \times 10^{-3}\) (1)
* Relates strain to extension: \(\text{strain} = \frac{\Delta L}{L_0}\) (1)
* Calculates extension \(\Delta L = 2.52 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m}\) (or \(2.52\text{ mm}\)) (1)

**Part (c)** [2 Marks]
* Defines elastic limit as the point/stress value beyond which permanent/plastic deformation occurs (1)
* Explains that the material will not return to its original length when the force is removed (1)
PastPaper.question 5 · Structured
7 PastPaper.marks
An electric car of mass \(1400\text{ kg}\) travels up a hill of constant slope inclined at \(6.0^\circ\) to the horizontal. The car maintains a constant speed of \(15.0\text{ m s}^{-1}\). A constant resistive force of \(450\text{ N}\) due to air resistance and friction opposes the motion.

(a) Show that the component of the car's weight acting down the slope is approximately \(1400\text{ N}\). (2 marks)

(b) Calculate the useful power output of the car's electric motor to maintain this speed. (3 marks)

(c) The motor is \(85\%\) efficient. Calculate the electrical power input to the motor. (2 marks)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) The component of weight parallel to the slope is given by:
\( W_{\parallel} = mg \sin\theta \)
\( W_{\parallel} = 1400\text{ kg} \times 9.81\text{ m s}^{-2} \times \sin(6.0^\circ) = 1435.6\text{ N} \)
Which is approximately \(1400\text{ N}\) to two significant figures.

(b) Since the car travels at a constant velocity, the forward force \(F\) provided by the motor must balance the sum of the resistive forces and the weight component down the slope:
\( F = W_{\parallel} + F_{\text{resistive}} = 1435.6\text{ N} + 450\text{ N} = 1885.6\text{ N} \)
(If using the rounded value of \(1400\text{ N}\), then \(F = 1400\text{ N} + 450\text{ N} = 1850\text{ N}\))

The useful power output is:
\( P_{\text{out}} = F \times v = 1885.6\text{ N} \times 15.0\text{ m s}^{-1} = 28284\text{ W} = 28.3\text{ kW} \)
(Using the rounded force, \( P_{\text{out}} = 1850\text{ N} \times 15.0\text{ m s}^{-1} = 27.8\text{ kW} \))

(c) Efficiency is defined as:
\( \text{Efficiency} = \frac{P_{\text{out}}}{P_{\text{in}}} \implies P_{\text{in}} = \frac{P_{\text{out}}}{\text{Efficiency}} \)
Using the unrounded power output:
\( P_{\text{in}} = \frac{28284\text{ W}}{0.85} = 33275\text{ W} = 33.3\text{ kW} \)
(Using \(27.8\text{ kW}\), \( P_{\text{in}} = \frac{27750\text{ W}}{0.85} = 32.6\text{ kW} \))

PastPaper.markingScheme

**Part (a)** [2 Marks]
* Recalls component of weight is \(mg \sin\theta\) (1)
* Calculates \(1435.6\text{ N}\) and shows it is approximately \(1400\text{ N}\) (1)

**Part (b)** [3 Marks]
* Sums weight component and resistive force to find total forward force \(F = 1886\text{ N}\) (or \(1850\text{ N}\)) (1)
* Recalls and uses \(P = Fv\) (1)
* Obtains useful power of \(28.3\text{ kW}\) (or \(27.8\text{ kW}\)) (1)

**Part (c)** [2 Marks]
* Recalls and rearranges \(\text{efficiency} = \frac{P_{\text{out}}}{P_{\text{in}}}\) (1)
* Calculates power input: \(33.3\text{ kW}\) (or \(32.6\text{ kW}\)) (1)
PastPaper.question 6 · Structured
7 PastPaper.marks
A student carries out an experiment with two gliders, A and B, on a horizontal friction-free linear air track. Glider A of mass \(0.45\text{ kg}\) moves with a velocity of \(1.2\text{ m s}^{-1}\) to the right. It collides with glider B of mass \(0.30\text{ kg}\) which is moving with a velocity of \(0.40\text{ m s}^{-1}\) to the left. After the collision, glider A moves with a velocity of \(0.20\text{ m s}^{-1}\) to the right.

(a) Show that the velocity of glider B after the collision is \(1.1\text{ m s}^{-1}\) to the right. (4 marks)

(b) Determine whether the collision is elastic or inelastic. (3 marks)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) Let the direction to the right be positive.
Initial velocities:
\( u_A = +1.2\text{ m s}^{-1} \)
\( u_B = -0.40\text{ m s}^{-1} \)

Final velocity of A:
\( v_A = +0.20\text{ m s}^{-1} \)

According to the conservation of linear momentum:
\( m_A u_A + m_B u_B = m_A v_A + m_B v_B \)
\( 0.45(1.2) + 0.30(-0.40) = 0.45(0.20) + 0.30(v_B) \)
\( 0.54 - 0.12 = 0.09 + 0.30 v_B \)
\( 0.42 = 0.09 + 0.30 v_B \)
\( 0.33 = 0.30 v_B \)
\( v_B = \frac{0.33}{0.30} = 1.1\text{ m s}^{-1} \)
Since the result is positive, the velocity is directed to the right.

(b) To determine if the collision is elastic, compare total kinetic energy before and after:
\( E_{k,\text{before}} = \frac{1}{2}m_A u_A^2 + \frac{1}{2}m_B u_B^2 = \frac{1}{2}(0.45)(1.2)^2 + \frac{1}{2}(0.30)(-0.40)^2 \)
\( E_{k,\text{before}} = 0.324\text{ J} + 0.024\text{ J} = 0.348\text{ J} \)

\( E_{k,\text{after}} = \frac{1}{2}m_A v_A^2 + \frac{1}{2}m_B v_B^2 = \frac{1}{2}(0.45)(0.20)^2 + \frac{1}{2}(0.30)(1.1)^2 \)
\( E_{k,\text{after}} = 0.009\text{ J} + 0.1815\text{ J} = 0.1905\text{ J} \)

Since \( E_{k,\text{after}} < E_{k,\text{before}} \), kinetic energy is not conserved, meaning the collision is inelastic.

PastPaper.markingScheme

**Part (a)** [4 Marks]
* States conservation of linear momentum equation (1)
* Uses correct sign for velocity directed to the left (e.g., \(-0.40\text{ m s}^{-1}\)) (1)
* Rearranges equation correctly to make \(v_B\) the subject (1)
* Obtains final answer \(1.1\text{ m s}^{-1}\) and states direction is to the right (1)

**Part (b)** [3 Marks]
* Calculates initial total kinetic energy \(= 0.348\text{ J}\) (1)
* Calculates final total kinetic energy \(= 0.191\text{ J}\) (1)
* Concludes collision is inelastic because kinetic energy is not conserved (1)
PastPaper.question 7 · Structured
7 PastPaper.marks
A small steel ball-bearing of radius \(1.50 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m}\) and density \(7800\text{ kg m}^{-3}\) is released from rest at the surface of a cylinder filled with glycerol of density \(1260\text{ kg m}^{-3}\).

(a) Explain why the ball-bearing initially accelerates, and why it eventually reaches a constant terminal velocity. (3 marks)

(b) The terminal velocity of the ball-bearing is \(0.18\text{ m s}^{-1}\). Assuming the flow of glycerol around the ball-bearing is laminar, calculate the viscosity of glycerol.
[Volume of a sphere = \(\frac{4}{3}\pi r^3\); drag force on a sphere in laminar flow is given by Stokes' Law: \(F_D = 6\pi \eta r v\)] (4 marks)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) When first released, the downward force (weight) is greater than the upward force (upthrust), resulting in a net downward force that causes the ball to accelerate.
As velocity increases, the viscous drag force increases (since drag is proportional to velocity in laminar flow).
Eventually, the sum of the upward forces (upthrust + drag) equals the downward weight. The net force becomes zero, so acceleration becomes zero, and terminal velocity is reached.

(b) At terminal velocity, the forces are in equilibrium:
\( W = U + F_D \implies W - U = F_D \)
Weight \( W = \rho_{\text{ball}} V g \)
Upthrust \( U = \rho_{\text{fluid}} V g \)
Therefore:
\( (\rho_{\text{ball}} - \rho_{\text{fluid}}) V g = 6\pi \eta r v \)
Volume of the sphere \( V = \frac{4}{3} \pi r^3 = \frac{4}{3} \pi (1.50 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m})^3 = 1.4137 \times 10^{-8}\text{ m}^3 \)
Substituting values:
\( (7800 - 1260)\text{ kg m}^{-3} \times (1.4137 \times 10^{-8}\text{ m}^3) \times 9.81\text{ m s}^{-2} = 6 \pi \eta (1.50 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m}) (0.18\text{ m s}^{-1}) \)
\( 6540 \times 1.4137 \times 10^{-8} \times 9.81 = 6\pi \eta (2.70 \times 10^{-4}) \)
\( 9.070 \times 10^{-4} = 5.089 \times 10^{-3} \eta \)
\( \eta = \frac{9.070 \times 10^{-4}}{5.089 \times 10^{-3}} = 0.178\text{ Pa s} \) (or \(0.18\text{ Pa s}\))

PastPaper.markingScheme

**Part (a)** [3 Marks]
* Mentions weight is initially greater than upthrust, creating a downward net force / acceleration (1)
* States drag force increases as velocity increases (1)
* Explains that terminal velocity occurs when net force is zero (weight = upthrust + drag) (1)

**Part (b)** [4 Marks]
* States equilibrium condition: \(W = U + F_D\) (1)
* Calculates sphere volume \(V = 1.41 \times 10^{-8}\text{ m}^3\) (1)
* Substitutes densities, volume, and terminal velocity correctly into force balance equation (1)
* Calculates viscosity \(\eta = 0.178\text{ Pa s}\) or \(0.18\text{ Pa s}\) (1) *(accept units of N s m^-2 or kg m^-1 s^-1)*
PastPaper.question 8 · Structured
7 PastPaper.marks
An athlete runs a \(100\text{ m}\) race. The athlete starts from rest and accelerates with a constant acceleration of \(a\) for the first \(3.0\text{ s}\), reaching a maximum velocity \(v\). The athlete then maintains this velocity \(v\) for the remainder of the race. The total time for the race is \(11.5\text{ s}\).

(a) Write down an expression for the distance travelled in the first \(3.0\text{ s}\) in terms of \(v\). (2 marks)

(b) Calculate the maximum velocity \(v\) reached by the athlete. (4 marks)

(c) State one limitation of this simplified model of a runner's motion. (1 mark)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) During Stage 1 (first \(3.0\text{ s}\)), the athlete accelerates from rest (\(u = 0\)) to \(v\).
Since acceleration is constant, the average velocity is:
\( v_{\text{avg}} = \frac{u+v}{2} = \frac{0+v}{2} = 0.5v \)
Distance \( s_1 \) travelled during Stage 1 is:
\( s_1 = v_{\text{avg}} \times t_1 = 0.5v \times 3.0\text{ s} = 1.5v \)

(b) During Stage 2, the athlete travels at a constant velocity \(v\).
Time spent in Stage 2 is:
\( t_2 = 11.5\text{ s} - 3.0\text{ s} = 8.5\text{ s} \)
Distance \( s_2 \) travelled during Stage 2 is:
\( s_2 = v \times t_2 = 8.5v \)

The total distance of the race is \( 100\text{ m} \):
\( s_1 + s_2 = 100\text{ m} \)
\( 1.5v + 8.5v = 100 \)
\( 10.0v = 100 \)
\( v = 10.0\text{ m s}^{-1} \)

(c) Any valid real-world physical limitation, such as:
* Real runners do not maintain a perfectly constant acceleration from the start.
* Real runners cannot instantly transition from accelerating to a constant velocity at \(3.0\text{ s}\).
* Air resistance would make maintaining constant maximum speed require varying force.

PastPaper.markingScheme

**Part (a)** [2 Marks]
* Uses average velocity of \(0.5v\) or applies SUVAT with \(a = \frac{v}{3}\) (1)
* Obtains expression \(1.5v\) (1)

**Part (b)** [4 Marks]
* Deduces time for Stage 2 is \(8.5\text{ s}\) (1)
* Formulates expression for second stage distance: \(8.5v\) (1)
* Equates total distance to \(100\text{ m}\): \(1.5v + 8.5v = 100\) (1)
* Calculates maximum velocity \(v = 10.0\text{ m s}^{-1}\) (1)

**Part (c)** [1 Mark]
* Mentions a sensible physical limitation (e.g. non-constant acceleration, non-instantaneous change in acceleration, air resistance effects) (1)
PastPaper.question 9 · Structured
7 PastPaper.marks
A toy car of mass 0.15 kg is released from rest at the top of a ramp. The ramp is 0.80 m long and is inclined at an angle of 30° to the horizontal. (a) State the principle of conservation of energy. (1) (b) As the car slides down the ramp, a constant frictional force of 0.25 N acts on it. Show that the speed of the car at the bottom of the ramp is approximately 2.3 m s\(^{-1}\). (3) (c) The car leaves the ramp horizontally from the edge of a table which is 0.85 m above the floor. Calculate the horizontal distance from the edge of the table to where the car lands on the floor. (3)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

For part (a), the principle of conservation of energy states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred from one form to another. For part (b), the initial height of the car is h = 0.80 m * sin(30°) = 0.40 m. The initial gravitational potential energy lost is E_p = mgh = 0.15 kg * 9.81 m s\(^{-2}\) * 0.40 m = 0.589 J. The work done against friction is W = F * d = 0.25 N * 0.80 m = 0.20 J. The kinetic energy of the car at the bottom of the ramp is E_k = E_p - W = 0.589 J - 0.20 J = 0.389 J. Using E_k = 0.5 * m * v\(^2\), we find v = \(\sqrt{(2 * 0.389 J) / 0.15 kg}\) = 2.28 m s\(^{-1}\), which is approximately 2.3 m s\(^{-1}\). For part (c), we first calculate the time t taken to fall vertically to the floor: s = 0.5 * g * t\(^2\) implies 0.85 m = 0.5 * 9.81 m s\(^{-2}\) * t\(^2\), so t = \(\sqrt{0.1733}\) = 0.416 s. The horizontal distance is x = v * t. Using v = 2.28 m s\(^{-1}\), x = 2.28 * 0.416 = 0.95 m. Using the rounded value of 2.3 m s\(^{-1}\), x = 2.3 * 0.416 = 0.96 m.

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a): [1 Mark] State that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only converted/transferred from one form to another. Part (b): [3 Marks] MP1: Calculate vertical height h = 0.40 m and potential energy lost = 0.59 J (or use Ep = mgh directly in energy equation). MP2: Calculate work done against friction = 0.20 J. MP3: Set Ek = Ep - W and solve to show v = 2.28 m s\(^{-1}\). Part (c): [3 Marks] MP1: Use of vertical motion equation s = 0.5 * g * t\(^2\) to find time. MP2: Calculate t = 0.42 s. MP3: Calculate horizontal range x = 0.95 m (accept 0.96 m).
PastPaper.question 10 · Structured
7 PastPaper.marks
A student carries out an experiment to determine the Young modulus of a long metal wire. (a) State two quantities, other than the applied load, that must be measured to determine the Young modulus. For each quantity, state a suitable measuring instrument. (3) (b) A copper wire of original length 2.40 m and diameter 0.56 mm is suspended vertically. A load of 35 N is hung from the lower end of the wire. Calculate the extension of the wire. Young modulus of copper = 1.2 * 10\(^{11}\) Pa. (4)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

For part (a), the student must measure: 1) Original length of the wire using a metre rule or tape measure; 2) Diameter of the wire using a micrometer screw gauge. To ensure accuracy, the diameter should be measured at several different points and directions along the wire to calculate a mean diameter. For part (b), the cross-sectional area of the wire is A = \(\pi\) * r\(^2\) = \(\pi\) * (0.28 * 10\(^{-3}\) m)\(^2\) = 2.46 * 10\(^{-7}\) m\(^2\). Since Young modulus E = (F * L) / (A * \(\Delta\)L), the extension is \(\Delta\)L = (F * L) / (A * E) = (35 N * 2.40 m) / (2.46 * 10\(^{-7}\) m\(^2\) * 1.2 * 10\(^{11}\) Pa) = 84 / 29520 = 2.84 * 10\(^{-3}\) m, which is 2.8 mm.

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a): [3 Marks] MP1: Measure original length using a metre rule / tape measure. MP2: Measure diameter using a micrometer screw gauge. MP3: Detail of measuring the diameter at multiple points/orientations and finding the average. Part (b): [4 Marks] MP1: Use of Area = \(\pi\) * d\(^2\) / 4 or \(\pi\) * r\(^2\) to get A = 2.46 * 10\(^{-7}\) m\(^2\). MP2: Recall of Young modulus formula E = stress / strain. MP3: Rearrangement of formula to make extension the subject: \(\Delta\)L = (F * L) / (A * E). MP4: Correct calculation to give 2.8 * 10\(^{-3}\) m or 2.8 mm.

Unit 2 Section A

Answer all ten multiple choice questions. Choose the single best response.
10 PastPaper.question · 10 PastPaper.marks
PastPaper.question 1 · MCQ
1 PastPaper.marks
A ray of light of frequency \(f\) and wavelength \(\lambda\) in air enters a transparent block of refractive index \(n\). Which of the following gives the frequency and wavelength of the light inside the block?
  1. A.frequency: \(f\), wavelength: \(\lambda / n\)
  2. B.frequency: \(f / n\), wavelength: \(\lambda\)
  3. C.frequency: \(f\), wavelength: \(n \lambda\)
  4. D.frequency: \(f / n\), wavelength: \(\lambda / n\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

When light travels from one medium to another, its frequency \(f\) remains constant because it depends only on the source of the light. The speed of light in the medium is given by \(v = \frac{c}{n}\). Since \(v = f \lambda'\), the new wavelength \(\lambda'\) is given by \(\lambda' = \frac{v}{f} = \frac{c}{n f} = \frac{\lambda}{n}\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for the correct option A. Correctly identifying that frequency is unchanged and wavelength is scaled by \(1/n\).
PastPaper.question 2 · MCQ
1 PastPaper.marks
A uniform metal wire of resistance \(R\) is stretched so that its length increases by \(10\%\) while its volume remains constant. What is the new resistance of the wire?
  1. A.\(1.10 R\)
  2. B.\(1.21 R\)
  3. C.\(0.91 R\)
  4. D.\(0.83 R\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The volume of the wire \(V = A \times L\) is constant, so if length increases to \(1.10 L\), the cross-sectional area must decrease to \(A / 1.10\). Resistance is given by \(R = \frac{\rho L}{A}\). The new resistance \(R' = \frac{\rho (1.10 L)}{A / 1.10} = 1.21 \frac{\rho L}{A} = 1.21 R\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for the correct option B. Correctly applying volume conservation to relate area and length, then calculating the new resistance.
PastPaper.question 3 · MCQ
1 PastPaper.marks
In a photoelectric effect experiment, light of frequency \(f\) is incident on a metal surface, releasing photoelectrons with maximum kinetic energy \(E_k\). If the frequency of the incident light is doubled to \(2f\), what is the new maximum kinetic energy of the photoelectrons?
  1. A.Equal to \(2 E_k\)
  2. B.More than \(2 E_k\)
  3. C.Less than \(2 E_k\)
  4. D.Equal to \(E_k / 2\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

Using Einstein's photoelectric equation, \(hf = \Phi + E_k\), where \(\Phi\) is the work function of the metal. For the doubled frequency \(2f\), the new maximum kinetic energy \(E_k'\) is given by \(E_k' = h(2f) - \Phi = 2(hf) - \Phi = 2(E_k + \Phi) - \Phi = 2E_k + \Phi\). Since the work function \(\Phi\) is a positive quantity, \(E_k'\) must be greater than \(2E_k\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for the correct option B. Applying Einstein's photoelectric equation to show that the new kinetic energy is \(2E_k + \Phi\), which is greater than \(2E_k\).
PastPaper.question 4 · MCQ
1 PastPaper.marks
A potential divider circuit consists of a fixed resistor of resistance \(R\) connected in series with a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) thermistor across a constant voltage supply. A voltmeter is connected across the thermistor. If the temperature of the thermistor is increased, which of the following describes the change in the resistance of the thermistor and the reading on the voltmeter?
  1. A.Resistance of thermistor: Decreases; Voltmeter reading: Decreases
  2. B.Resistance of thermistor: Decreases; Voltmeter reading: Increases
  3. C.Resistance of thermistor: Increases; Voltmeter reading: Decreases
  4. D.Resistance of thermistor: Increases; Voltmeter reading: Increases
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

An NTC thermistor has a resistance that decreases as its temperature increases. In a series potential divider circuit, the ratio of the potential differences across the components is equal to the ratio of their resistances. Since the thermistor's resistance decreases relative to the fixed resistor \(R\), the voltage drop across the thermistor decreases. Therefore, the voltmeter reading decreases.

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for the correct option A. Recalling that NTC thermistor resistance decreases with temperature and applying the potential divider rule to deduce that the voltmeter reading decreases.
PastPaper.question 5 · MCQ
1 PastPaper.marks
A stationary wave is established on a stretched string of length \(L\) fixed at both ends. The string vibrates in its third harmonic. What is the distance between a node and its adjacent antinode?
  1. A.\(\frac{L}{6}\)
  2. B.\(\frac{L}{3}\)
  3. C.\(\frac{2L}{3}\)
  4. D.\(\frac{L}{12}\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

For a string fixed at both ends vibrating in its third harmonic, there are three loops, so \(L = 3 \times \frac{\lambda}{2}\), which gives \(\lambda = \frac{2L}{3}\). The distance between a node and an adjacent antinode is a quarter of a wavelength, \(\frac{\lambda}{4}\). Thus, the distance is \(\frac{1}{4} \times \frac{2L}{3} = \frac{L}{6}\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for the correct option A. Determining the wavelength in terms of \(L\) for the third harmonic and calculating the node-to-antinode distance as \(\lambda / 4\).
PastPaper.question 6 · MCQ
1 PastPaper.marks
Two copper wires, X and Y, are connected in series in a circuit. Wire X has twice the diameter of wire Y. The drift velocity of the conduction electrons in wire X is \(v_X\) and in wire Y is \(v_Y\). What is the ratio \(\frac{v_X}{v_Y}\)?
  1. A.4
  2. B.2
  3. C.0.5
  4. D.0.25
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

Since the wires are connected in series, the same current \(I\) flows through both wires. Using the equation for current \(I = nAvq\), we have \(n A_X v_X q = n A_Y v_Y q\). Since they are both copper, \(n\) is the same. Thus, \(A_X v_X = A_Y v_Y\), which gives \(\frac{v_X}{v_Y} = \frac{A_Y}{A_X}\). The area \(A\) is proportional to the square of the diameter \(d^2\). Since \(d_X = 2d_Y\), then \(A_X = 4A_Y\). Therefore, \(\frac{v_X}{v_Y} = \frac{A_Y}{4A_Y} = 0.25\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for the correct option D. Recognizing that current is the same in series, linking area to diameter squared, and solving for the ratio of drift velocities.
PastPaper.question 7 · MCQ
1 PastPaper.marks
In a double-slit interference experiment, monochromatic light of wavelength \(\lambda\) passes through two slits separated by a distance \(d\) to produce fringes of spacing \(x\) on a screen at a distance \(D\) from the slits. If the slit separation is halved and the screen distance is doubled while keeping the wavelength constant, what is the new fringe spacing?
  1. A.\(\frac{x}{4}\)
  2. B.\(x\)
  3. C.2x
  4. D.4x
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The fringe spacing is given by \(x = \frac{\lambda D}{d}\). If the new screen distance is \(D' = 2D\) and the new slit separation is \(d' = \frac{d}{2}\), the new fringe spacing is \(x' = \frac{\lambda D'}{d'} = \frac{\lambda (2D)}{d/2} = 4 \frac{\lambda D}{d} = 4x\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for the correct option D. Using the double-slit formula and substituting the changes to find the new fringe spacing.
PastPaper.question 8 · MCQ
1 PastPaper.marks
A cell of e.m.f. \(\mathcal{E}\) and internal resistance \(r\) is connected to a variable resistor. A voltmeter is connected across the terminals of the cell. Which of the following describes the graph of the voltmeter reading \(V\) against the current \(I\) as the resistance of the variable resistor is changed?
  1. A.A straight line with a negative gradient and a non-zero vertical intercept.
  2. B.A straight line passing through the origin with a positive gradient.
  3. C.A curve that decreases towards zero as current increases.
  4. D.A horizontal straight line.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The terminal potential difference \(V\) is related to the e.m.f. \(\mathcal{E}\) and the current \(I\) by the equation \(V = \mathcal{E} - Ir\). Comparing this to the equation of a straight line, \(y = mx + c\), we see that a graph of \(V\) against \(I\) is a straight line with a negative gradient of \(-r\) and a vertical intercept of \(\mathcal{E}\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for the correct option A. Using the equation \(V = \mathcal{E} - Ir\) to identify that the graph of \(V\) against \(I\) is a straight line with a negative gradient and an intercept of \(\mathcal{E}\).
PastPaper.question 9 · MCQ
1 PastPaper.marks
Two copper wires, \(X\) and \(Y\), are connected in series. Wire \(X\) has twice the diameter of wire \(Y\). The drift velocity of the conduction electrons in wire \(X\) is \(v_X\) and in wire \(Y\) is \(v_Y\).

What is the ratio \(\frac{v_X}{v_Y}\)?
  1. A.4
  2. B.2
  3. C.\(\frac{1}{2}\)
  4. D.\(\frac{1}{4}\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The current \(I\) in both wires must be the same because they are connected in series:
\[I_X = I_Y\]

The relationship between current and drift velocity is given by:
\[I = nAvq\]

Since both wires are made of copper, they have the same number density of conduction electrons \(n\) and the same charge carrier charge \(q\). This means:
\[A_X v_X = A_Y v_Y\]

Since the cross-sectional area of a wire of diameter \(d\) is \(A = \frac{\pi d^2}{4}\), we can substitute this into the equation:
\[\frac{\pi d_X^2}{4} v_X = \frac{\pi d_Y^2}{4} v_Y\]

\[d_X^2 v_X = d_Y^2 v_Y\]

Given that the diameter of wire \(X\) is twice that of wire \(Y\) (\(d_X = 2d_Y\)):
\[(2d_Y)^2 v_X = d_Y^2 v_Y\]

\[4 d_Y^2 v_X = d_Y^2 v_Y\]

\[4 v_X = v_Y\]

Rearranging to find the ratio \(\frac{v_X}{v_Y}\):
\[\frac{v_X}{v_Y} = \frac{1}{4}\]

Therefore, option D is the correct answer.

PastPaper.markingScheme

D is the correct answer (1 mark).

Award 1 mark for selecting option D, identifying that \(I\) is constant in series and that drift velocity is inversely proportional to cross-sectional area (the square of the diameter).
PastPaper.question 10 · MCQ
1 PastPaper.marks
Monochromatic light of wavelength \(\lambda\) is incident normally on a diffraction grating with slit spacing \(d\). The first-order maximum is observed at an angle \(\theta\).

The light source is replaced with light of wavelength \(1.5\lambda\) and the grating is replaced with one having a slit spacing of \(2d\).

Which of the following expressions is correct for the angle \(\theta'\) at which the new first-order maximum is observed?
  1. A.\(\sin\theta' = \frac{3}{4}\sin\theta\)
  2. B.\(\sin\theta' = \frac{4}{3}\sin\theta\)
  3. C.\(\sin\theta' = 3\sin\theta\)
  4. D.\(\sin\theta' = \frac{1}{3}\sin\theta\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The equation for a diffraction grating is:
\[d \sin\theta = n\lambda\]

For the first-order maximum (\(n = 1\)):
\[d \sin\theta = \lambda \implies \sin\theta = \frac{\lambda}{d}\]

In the second setup, we have a new wavelength \(\lambda' = 1.5\lambda\) and a new slit spacing \(d' = 2d\). The equation for the new first-order maximum is:
\[d' \sin\theta' = \lambda'\]

Substituting the new values into the equation:
\[(2d) \sin\theta' = 1.5\lambda\]

Rearranging for \(\sin\theta'\):
\[\sin\theta' = \frac{1.5\lambda}{2d} = 0.75 \left(\frac{\lambda}{d}\right)\]

Since \(\sin\theta = \frac{\lambda}{d}\) from the first setup:
\[\sin\theta' = 0.75\sin\theta = \frac{3}{4}\sin\theta\]

PastPaper.markingScheme

A is the correct answer (1 mark).

Award 1 mark for selecting option A, by successfully setting up the ratio of the diffraction grating equations for both cases.

Unit 2 Section B

Answer all structured, descriptive, and numerical questions in the spaces provided.
8 PastPaper.question · 70 PastPaper.marks
PastPaper.question 1 · Structured
8.75 PastPaper.marks
A clean metal surface of zinc has a work function of \(4.3\text{ eV}\). Ultraviolet light of wavelength \(220\text{ nm}\) is shone onto the zinc plate.\
\
(a) Show that the maximum kinetic energy of the emitted photoelectrons is approximately \(2.2 \times 10^{-19}\text{ J}\).\
(b) Calculate the de Broglie wavelength of these maximum kinetic energy photoelectrons.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) First, calculate the photon energy using \(E = \frac{hc}{\lambda}\):\
\(E = \frac{(6.63 \times 10^{-34}\text{ J s}) \times (3.00 \times 10^8\text{ m s}^{-1})}{220 \times 10^{-9}\text{ m}} = 9.04 \times 10^{-19}\text{ J}\).\
\
Convert the work function from eV to Joules:\
\(\Phi = 4.3 \times 1.60 \times 10^{-19}\text{ J} = 6.88 \times 10^{-19}\text{ J}\).\
\
Using Einstein's photoelectric equation:\
\(E_k = E - \Phi = 9.04 \times 10^{-19}\text{ J} - 6.88 \times 10^{-19}\text{ J} = 2.16 \times 10^{-19}\text{ J}\).\
This is approximately \(2.2 \times 10^{-19}\text{ J}\).\
\
(b) Calculate the de Broglie wavelength of the emitted electrons:\
First, find the momentum \(p = \sqrt{2 m_e E_k}\) of the electrons:\
\(p = \sqrt{2 \times (9.11 \times 10^{-31}\text{ kg}) \times (2.16 \times 10^{-19}\text{ J})} = 6.273 \times 10^{-25}\text{ kg m s}^{-1}\).\
\
Now, find the de Broglie wavelength using \(\lambda = \frac{h}{p}\):\
\(\lambda = \frac{6.63 \times 10^{-34}\text{ J s}}{6.273 \times 10^{-25}\text{ kg m s}^{-1}} = 1.06 \times 10^{-9}\text{ m}\) (or \(1.1 \times 10^{-9}\text{ m}\)).

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a):\
- [1 Mark] Use of \(E = hc/\lambda\) to calculate photon energy.\
- [1 Mark] Conversion of work function into Joules (\(6.88 \times 10^{-19}\text{ J}\)).\
- [1 Mark] Subtraction of work function from photon energy to get correct KE of \(2.16 \times 10^{-19}\text{ J}\).\
\
Part (b):\
- [1 Mark] Correct formula linking de Broglie wavelength to momentum, \(\lambda = h/p\).\
- [1 Mark] Use of \(p = \sqrt{2mE_k}\) or equivalent to calculate momentum.\
- [1 Mark] Correct calculation of momentum as \(6.27 \times 10^{-25}\text{ kg m s}^{-1}\).\
- [1 Mark] Correct final answer of \(1.1 \times 10^{-9}\text{ m}\) (accept \(1.06\text{ nm}\) to \(1.1\text{ nm}\)).\
- [1.75 Marks] Quality of written communication, appropriate unit usage, and rounding consistency.
PastPaper.question 2 · Structured
8.75 PastPaper.marks
A battery with electromotive force (e.m.f.) \(E\) and internal resistance \(r\) is connected in series with a variable resistor and an ammeter of negligible resistance.\
\
(a) Write an equation relating the terminal potential difference across the battery \(V\), e.m.f. \(E\), current \(I\), and internal resistance \(r\). Explain why the terminal potential difference \(V\) decreases as the current \(I\) increases.\
(b) A student conducts an experiment and finds that when \(I = 1.20\text{ A}\), the terminal potential difference is \(5.40\text{ V}\). When \(I = 2.00\text{ A}\), the terminal potential difference is \(3.00\text{ V}\) across the terminals. Calculate the e.m.f. \(E\) and the internal resistance \(r\) of this battery.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) The equation is: \(V = E - Ir\). \
As the current \(I\) increases, more charge carriers flow through the internal resistance \(r\) of the battery per second. Consequently, the potential difference dropped across the internal resistance (the lost volts, \(Ir\)) increases. Since the e.m.f. \(E\) remains constant, the remaining potential difference available to the external circuit (the terminal potential difference \(V\)) must decrease.\
\
(b) We are given two sets of data:\
For \(I_1 = 1.20\text{ A}\), \(V_1 = 5.40\text{ V}\):\
\(5.40 = E - 1.20 r\) (Equation 1)\
\
For \(I_2 = 2.00\text{ A}\), \(V_2 = 3.00\text{ V}\):\
\(3.00 = E - 2.00 r\) (Equation 2)\
\
Subtract Equation 2 from Equation 1:\
\(2.40 = 0.80 r\)\
\(r = \frac{2.40}{0.80} = 3.0 \\ \Omega\).\
\
Substitute \(r = 3.0 \\ \Omega\) back into Equation 2:\
\(3.00 = E - 2.00(3.0)\) \
\(3.00 = E - 6.00 \implies E = 9.0\text{ V}\).\
\
Therefore, the e.m.f. of the battery is \(9.0\text{ V}\) and the internal resistance is \(3.0 \\ \Omega\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a):\
- [1 Mark] Stating correct equation: \(V = E - Ir\).\
- [1 Mark] Explaining that increasing current increases 'lost volts' or voltage across internal resistance (\(Ir\)).\
- [1 Mark] Explaining that because e.m.f. remains constant, the terminal potential difference must decrease as a result.\
\
Part (b):\
- [1 Mark] Setting up two simultaneous equations based on experimental data.\
- [1 Mark] Eliminating e.m.f. \(E\) to find a relation for internal resistance \(r\).\
- [1 Mark] Correct calculation of \(r = 3.0 \\ \Omega\).\
- [1 Mark] Substituting \(r\) back to find e.m.f. \(E = 9.0\text{ V}\).\
- [1.75 Marks] Units shown correctly (\(\text{V}\) and \(\Omega\)) with consistent significant figures throughout calculations.
PastPaper.question 3 · Structured
8.75 PastPaper.marks
A laser emitting monochromatic light of wavelength \(632.8\text{ nm}\) is directed normally at a diffraction grating. The first-order maximum is observed at an angle of \(18.5^\circ\) to the central maximum.\
\
(a) Determine the number of lines per millimetre of this diffraction grating.\
(b) Calculate the maximum number of bright fringes (including the central maximum) that can be observed on a screen behind the grating.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) Use the grating equation: \(d \sin\theta = n\lambda\).\
For the first-order maximum (\(n = 1\)):\
\(d \sin(18.5^\circ) = 1 \times 632.8 \times 10^{-9}\text{ m}\).\
\
Calculate \(d\):\
\(d = \frac{632.8 \times 10^{-9}}{\sin(18.5^\circ)} = \frac{632.8 \times 10^{-9}}{0.3173} \approx 1.994 \times 10^{-6}\text{ m}\).\
\
Calculate the number of lines per millimetre, \(N\):\
\(N = \frac{1 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m}}{d} = \frac{10^{-3}}{1.994 \times 10^{-6}} \approx 501.5\text{ lines per millimetre}\) (approximately \(500\text{ lines per millimetre}\)).\
\
(b) The maximum angle of diffraction is \(\theta = 90^\circ\) (since \(\sin\theta \le 1\)).\
Using \(d \sin\theta = n\lambda\) with \(\sin\theta = 1\):\
\(n_{\max} = \frac{d}{\lambda} = \frac{1.994 \times 10^{-6}\text{ m}}{632.8 \times 10^{-9}\text{ m}} \approx 3.15\).\
\
Since the order must be an integer, the maximum possible order is \(n = 3\).\
\
The total number of visible bright fringes on both sides of the central maximum is:\
\(N_{\text{fringes}} = 2n_{\max} + 1 = 2(3) + 1 = 7\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a):\
- [1 Mark] State and use the formula \(d \sin\theta = n\lambda\).\
- [1 Mark] Correct conversion of wavelength to metres (\(6.328 \times 10^{-7}\text{ m}\) or \(632.8 \times 10^{-9}\text{ m}\)).\
- [1 Mark] Correct calculation of the grating spacing \(d = 1.99 \times 10^{-6}\text{ m}\).\
- [1 Mark] Correct calculation of lines per mm (\(500 \pm 3\text{ lines/mm}\) depending on rounding).\
\
Part (b):\
- [1 Mark] Stating that maximum angle occurs when \(\sin\theta = 1\) or \(\theta = 90^\circ\).\
- [1 Mark] Calculation of non-integer maximum order as \(3.15\) or substitution to show \(n=3\) is allowed but \(n=4\) is not.\
- [1 Mark] Identifying maximum order \(n = 3\).\
- [1 Mark] Finding total fringes by formula \(2n + 1 = 7\).\
- [0.75 Marks] Clear explanation of physical limits of diffraction (why light cannot diffract beyond \(90^\circ\)).
PastPaper.question 4 · Structured
8.75 PastPaper.marks
A potential divider circuit consists of a light-dependent resistor (LDR) connected in series with a fixed resistor of resistance \(R = 1.5\text{ k}\Omega\) across a \(9.0\text{ V}\) power supply of negligible internal resistance. The output potential difference \(V_{\text{out}}\) is measured across the LDR.\
\
(a) Explain how the resistance of the LDR changes as light intensity increases, referencing the behavior of charge carriers.\
(b) In a dark room, the resistance of the LDR is \(4.5\text{ k}\Omega\). Calculate the value of \(V_{\text{out}}\) in these dark conditions.\
(c) When bright light is shone on the LDR, the output voltage \(V_{\text{out}}\) falls to \(1.5\text{ V}\). Calculate the resistance of the LDR under this bright light level.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) An LDR is made from a semiconductor. As light intensity increases, the LDR absorbs more photons. These photons transfer energy to electrons in the valence band, allowing them to overcome the bandgap and move into the conduction band. This process significantly increases the number density \(n\) of free charge carriers, which increases conductivity and thus decreases the resistance of the LDR.\
\
(b) In dark conditions, \(R_{\text{LDR}} = 4.5\text{ k}\Omega = 4500 \\ \Omega\).\
Using the potential divider equation:\
\(V_{\text{out}} = V_{\text{in}} \times \frac{R_{\text{LDR}}}{R + R_{\text{LDR}}}\) \
\(V_{\text{out}} = 9.0\text{ V} \times \frac{4.5\text{ k}\Omega}{1.5\text{ k}\Omega + 4.5\text{ k}\Omega} = 9.0\text{ V} \times \frac{4.5}{6.0} = 6.75\text{ V}\).\
\
(c) In bright light, \(V_{\text{out}} = 1.5\text{ V}\).\
\(1.5 = 9.0 \times \frac{R_{\text{LDR}}}{1.5\text{ k}\Omega + R_{\text{LDR}}}\) \
\
Divide both sides by \(1.5\):\
\(1 = 6 \times \frac{R_{\text{LDR}}}{1.5 + R_{\text{LDR}}}\) (working in \(\text{k}\Omega\))\
\(1.5 + R_{\text{LDR}} = 6 R_{\text{LDR}}\) \
\(1.5 = 5 R_{\text{LDR}}\) \
\(R_{\text{LDR}} = 0.3\text{ k}\Omega = 300 \\ \Omega\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a):\
- [1 Mark] Stating that LDR resistance decreases as light intensity increases.\
- [1 Mark] Explaining that absorbed photons release electrons / free carriers into conduction band.\
- [1 Mark] Referring to increase in carrier concentration (\(n\)).\
\
Part (b):\
- [1 Mark] Correct formula for potential divider circuit.\
- [1 Mark] Calculation showing total resistance is \(6.0\text{ k}\Omega\).\
- [1 Mark] Correct output voltage \(V_{\text{out}} = 6.75\text{ V}\) (or \(6.8\text{ V}\)).\
\
Part (c):\
- [1 Mark] Setting up correct equation with \(V_{\text{out}} = 1.5\text{ V}\).\
- [1 Mark] Correct algebraic steps to solve for \(R_{\text{LDR}}\).\
- [0.75 Marks] Correct final answer of \(300 \\ \Omega\) (or \(0.3\text{ k}\Omega\)) with correct units.
PastPaper.question 5 · Structured
8.75 PastPaper.marks
An optical fibre has a glass core of refractive index \(n_1 = 1.52\) surrounded by a cladding of refractive index \(n_2 = 1.41\).\
\
(a) Calculate the critical angle \(\theta_c\) at the boundary between the core and cladding.\
(b) A ray of light is incident from air (refractive index \(n_{\text{air}} = 1.00\)) onto the flat end-face of the fibre with an angle of incidence of \(30.0^\circ\). Calculate the angle of refraction inside the core.\
(c) Determine, by calculating the angle of incidence at the core-cladding boundary, whether this ray will undergo total internal reflection inside the fibre.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) The critical angle \(\theta_c\) is calculated using Snell's law when the refracted angle is \(90^\circ\):\
\(\sin\theta_c = \frac{n_2}{n_1} = \frac{1.41}{1.52} \approx 0.9276\)\
\(\theta_c = \sin^{-1}(0.9276) = 68.1^\circ\).\
\
(b) Using Snell's law at the air-core boundary:\
\(n_{\text{air}} \sin\theta_i = n_1 \sin\theta_r\)\
\(1.00 \times \sin(30.0^\circ) = 1.52 \times \sin\theta_r\)\
\(\sin\theta_r = \frac{0.500}{1.52} \approx 0.3289\)\
\(\theta_r = \sin^{-1}(0.3289) = 19.2^\circ\).\
\
(c) The ray meets the side wall (core-cladding interface). From geometry, the normal to the flat end-face is parallel to the axis of the fiber, and the normal to the core-cladding boundary is perpendicular to the axis. Thus, the angle of incidence \(\theta\) at the core-cladding boundary is:\
\(\theta = 90.0^\circ - \theta_r = 90.0^\circ - 19.2^\circ = 70.8^\circ\).\
\
Compare this angle of incidence to the critical angle:\
Since \(\theta = 70.8^\circ\) is greater than the critical angle \(\theta_c = 68.1^\circ\), the ray will undergo total internal reflection (TIR) and will not escape into the cladding.

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a):\
- [1 Mark] Stating or using \(\sin\theta_c = n_2 / n_1\).\
- [1 Mark] Correct calculation of critical angle \(\theta_c = 68.1^\circ\).\
\
Part (b):\
- [1 Mark] Using Snell's law: \(n_1 \sin\theta_1 = n_2 \sin\theta_2\) at the entrance boundary.\
- [1 Mark] Substituting correct numbers: \(1.00 \sin(30^\circ) = 1.52 \sin\theta_r\).\
- [1 Mark] Finding refraction angle \(\theta_r = 19.2^\circ\).\
\
Part (c):\
- [1 Mark] Correct geometric relationship: \\theta = 90.0^\\circ - \\theta_r\\.\
- [1 Mark] Correct angle at boundary: \(70.8^\circ\) (accept \(70.8^\circ\) to \(71.0^\circ\) depending on rounding).\
- [1 Mark] Explicit comparison showing \(70.8^\circ > 68.1^\circ\) leading to total internal reflection.\
- [0.75 Marks] Statement of final conclusion (TIR occurs).
PastPaper.question 6 · Structured
8.75 PastPaper.marks
A metal wire has a length of \(2.40\text{ m}\) and a resistance of \(3.20 \\ \Omega\). The resistivity of the metal is \(1.72 \times 10^{-8} \\ \Omega\text{ m}\).\
\
(a) Calculate the diameter of the wire.\
(b) Explain, in terms of charge carriers and lattice ions, how the resistance of this metallic wire changes when its temperature increases.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) Calculate cross-sectional area \(A\) using the resistivity formula \(R = \frac{\rho L}{A}\):\
\(A = \frac{\rho L}{R} = \frac{1.72 \times 10^{-8} \\ \Omega\text{ m} \times 2.40\text{ m}}{3.20 \\ \Omega} = 1.29 \times 10^{-8}\text{ m}^2\).\
\
Since the wire has a circular cross-section, \(A = \frac{\pi d^2}{4}\):\
\(1.29 \times 10^{-8}\text{ m}^2 = \frac{\pi d^2}{4}\) \
\(d^2 = \frac{4 \times 1.29 \times 10^{-8}}{\pi} = 1.6425 \times 10^{-8}\text{ m}^2\) \
\(d = \sqrt{1.6425 \times 10^{-8}\text{ m}^2} = 1.28 \times 10^{-4}\text{ m}\) (or \(0.128\text{ mm}\)).\
\
(b) When the temperature of the metal increases, the positive lattice ions gain kinetic energy and vibrate with a larger amplitude. This increased vibration increases the frequency of collisions between the conducting free electrons (charge carriers) and the lattice ions. Consequently, the drift velocity of the electrons decreases, which results in an increase in the resistance of the wire.

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a):\
- [1 Mark] Rearranging resistivity formula to make area \(A\) the subject.\
- [1 Mark] Substitution of values into formula for \(A\).\
- [1 Mark] Correct calculation of area \(A = 1.29 \times 10^{-8}\text{ m}^2\).\
- [1 Mark] Using circle area formula to solve for diameter \(d\).\
- [1 Mark] Correct calculation of diameter \(d = 1.28 \times 10^{-4}\text{ m}\) (or equivalent \(0.128\text{ mm}\)).\
\
Part (b):\
- [1 Mark] Identifying that lattice ions vibrate with larger amplitude at higher temperature.\
- [1 Mark] Describing more frequent collisions between conduction electrons and lattice ions.\
- [1 Mark] Explaining that this limits the drift velocity of electrons, thereby increasing resistance.\
- [0.75 Marks] Use of clear physical terminology and consistent reasoning throughout.
PastPaper.question 7 · Structured
8.75 PastPaper.marks
A steel wire of length \(0.80\text{ m}\) is held under a tension of \(45\text{ N}\). The linear density (mass per unit length) of the wire is \(1.2 \times 10^{-3}\text{ kg m}^{-1}\).\
\
(a) Calculate the speed of transverse waves on the wire.\
(b) Determine the wavelength and frequency of the fundamental mode (first harmonic) of vibration of this wire.\
(c) Describe how a stationary wave is formed on this wire when it is plucked.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) Calculate the wave speed using \(v = \sqrt{\frac{T}{\mu}}\):\
\(v = \sqrt{\frac{45\text{ N}}{1.2 \times 10^{-3}\text{ kg m}^{-1}}} = \sqrt{37500} \approx 193.65\text{ m s}^{-1}\) (or \(194\text{ m s}^{-1}\)).\
\
(b) For the fundamental mode of vibration (first harmonic), the length of the wire \(L\) corresponds to half a wavelength:\
\(L = \frac{\lambda}{2} \implies \lambda = 2L = 2 \times 0.80\text{ m} = 1.60\text{ m}\).\
\
Calculate the frequency \(f\) using the wave equation \(v = f \lambda\):\
\(f = \frac{v}{\lambda} = \frac{193.65\text{ m s}^{-1}}{1.60\text{ m}} = 121\text{ Hz}\) (to 3 s.f.).\
\
(c) When the wire is plucked, progressive waves are generated and travel to both fixed ends of the wire. At the fixed ends, the waves undergo reflection (with a phase change of \(180^\circ\)). These reflected waves travel back along the wire in opposite directions. The original and reflected waves, which have the same frequency and amplitude, superpose (or interfere) with each other. This superposition creates stationary wave patterns, characterized by nodes (where destructive interference occurs and amplitude is zero) and antinodes (where constructive interference occurs and amplitude is maximum).

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a):\
- [1 Mark] Recall and use formula \(v = \sqrt{T/\mu}\).\
- [1 Mark] Correct substitution and calculation of wave speed as \(194\text{ m s}^{-1}\) (or \(193.6\text{ m s}^{-1}\) to \(193.7\text{ m s}^{-1}\)).\
\
Part (b):\
- [1 Mark] Identifying that \(\lambda = 2L\) for the first harmonic.\
- [1 Mark] Calculating wavelength as \(1.60\text{ m}\).\
- [1 Mark] Using \(f = v/\lambda\) with calculated velocity and wavelength.\
- [1 Mark] Calculating frequency as \(121\text{ Hz}\) (accept \(120.6\text{ Hz}\) to \(121.2\text{ Hz}\) depending on rounding).\
\
Part (c):\
- [1 Mark] Mentioning reflection of waves at the fixed boundaries/ends.\
- [1 Mark] Explaining that two waves travelling in opposite directions superpose/interfere.\
- [0.75 Marks] Explicitly mentioning nodes (zero displacement/destructive interference) and antinodes (maximum displacement/constructive interference).
PastPaper.question 8 · Structured
8.75 PastPaper.marks
A copper wire of diameter \(0.60\text{ mm}\) carries an electric current of \(0.45\text{ A}\). The density of free conduction electrons in copper is \(8.5 \times 10^{28}\text{ m}^{-3}\).\
\
(a) Calculate the drift velocity of the conduction electrons in this wire.\
(b) Explain why a lamp in this circuit lights up almost instantaneously when the switch is closed, despite the extremely slow drift velocity of the conduction electrons calculated in part (a).
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) Use the equation for current: \(I = nAve\).\
First, calculate the cross-sectional area \(A\) of the wire:\
\(A = \frac{\pi d^2}{4} = \frac{\pi \times (0.60 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m})^2}{4} = 2.827 \times 10^{-7}\text{ m}^2\).\
\
Rearrange the current equation for drift velocity \(v\):\
\(v = \frac{I}{nAe}\) \
\
Substitute the values (where \(e = 1.60 \times 10^{-19}\text{ C}\)):\
\(v = \frac{0.45\text{ A}}{8.5 \times 10^{28}\text{ m}^{-3} \times 2.827 \times 10^{-7}\text{ m}^2 \times 1.60 \times 10^{-19}\text{ C}}\) \
\(v = \frac{0.45}{3844.72} \approx 1.17 \times 10^{-4}\text{ m s}^{-1}\).\
\
(b) When the switch is closed, an electric field is established throughout the entire circuit almost instantaneously (travelling close to the speed of light). This electric field exerts a force on all free conduction electrons throughout the entire length of the wire simultaneously. Consequently, all the electrons begin to drift at the same time, producing a current throughout the circuit almost instantly, rather than waiting for individual electrons to travel from the power supply to the lamp.

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a):\
- [1 Mark] Stating or using \(I = nAve\).\
- [1 Mark] Calculating area \(A = 2.83 \times 10^{-7}\text{ m}^2\).\
- [1 Mark] Substituting value of elementary charge \(e = 1.60 \times 10^{-19}\text{ C}\).\
- [1 Mark] Correct calculation of drift velocity \(1.17 \times 10^{-4}\text{ m s}^{-1}\) (accept \(1.2 \times 10^{-4}\text{ m s}^{-1}\) or \(1.15 \times 10^{-4}\text{ m s}^{-1}\) depending on rounding).\
\
Part (b):\
- [1 Mark] Mentioning that an electric field is established throughout the circuit almost instantly (at the speed of light).\
- [1 Mark] Explaining that all free conduction electrons experience a force at the same time.\
- [1 Mark] Explaining that charge starts moving simultaneously everywhere in the circuit, hence instantaneous current flow.\
- [1.75 Marks] Clear logical argument without contradiction, using appropriate scientific terminology (e.g., electric field, drift, simultaneous).

PastPaper.section Unit 3 Practical Skills I

Answer all practical-based questions, including those on measurements, uncertainties, and experimental designs.
4 PastPaper.question · 50 PastPaper.marks
PastPaper.question 1 · Structured Practical
12.5 PastPaper.marks
An experiment is carried out to determine the resistivity \(\rho\) of a constantan wire of nominal diameter \(0.38\text{ mm}\).

(a) Draw a circuit diagram that the student should use to obtain the data needed to find the resistance of different lengths of the wire. (2)

(b) Describe how the student should measure the diameter of the wire, including how to minimize the uncertainty in the value of the cross-sectional area. (4)

(c) The student plots a graph of resistance \(R\) on the y-axis against length \(L\) of the wire on the x-axis. Explain how the gradient of the graph can be used to determine the resistivity of the wire. (3)

(d) The gradient of the graph is \(4.15\text{ }\Omega\text{ m}^{-1}\) with an uncertainty of \(\pm 0.08\text{ }\Omega\text{ m}^{-1}\). The diameter of the wire is measured as \(0.38\text{ mm} \pm 0.01\text{ mm}\). Calculate the value of the resistivity \(\rho\) of constantan and its absolute uncertainty. (3.5)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) The circuit diagram should show:
- A power supply connected in series with a switch, a variable resistor, and the test wire.
- An ammeter connected in series with the test wire.
- A voltmeter connected in parallel across the variable length of the wire being measured.
- (The variable resistor is included to keep the current low to prevent heating of the wire, which would change its resistance.)

(b)
- Use a micrometer screw gauge.
- First, check for a zero error and subtract/add it to all subsequent readings.
- Measure the diameter at several different positions along the wire.
- At each position, take measurements at different orientations (i.e., at right angles to each other) to account for any non-circularity.
- Calculate the mean diameter \(d\) and use \(A = \frac{\pi d^2}{4}\) to find the cross-sectional area. This averaging minimizes random uncertainty in the area.

(c)
- The relationship between resistance \(R\), resistivity \(\rho\), length \(L\), and cross-sectional area \(A\) is:
\[R = \frac{\rho L}{A}\]
- Comparing this to \(y = mx + c\), a plot of \(R\) against \(L\) gives a straight line through the origin with a gradient \(m = \frac{\rho}{A}\).
- Therefore, the resistivity can be calculated using:
\[\rho = m \times A\]
where \(m\) is the gradient of the graph.

(d)
First, calculate the cross-sectional area:
\[d = 0.38 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m}\]
\[A = \frac{\pi (0.38 \times 10^{-3})^2}{4} = 1.134 \times 10^{-7}\text{ m}^2\]

The resistivity is:
\[\rho = \text{gradient} \times A = 4.15 \times 1.134 \times 10^{-7} = 4.71 \times 10^{-7}\text{ }\Omega\text{ m}\]

To find the uncertainty:
Percentage uncertainty in gradient:
\[\% \Delta m = \frac{0.08}{4.15} \times 100\% = 1.93\%\]

Percentage uncertainty in diameter:
\[\% \Delta d = \frac{0.01}{0.38} \times 100\% = 2.63\%\]

Since \(A = \frac{\pi d^2}{4}\), the percentage uncertainty in area is:
\[\% \Delta A = 2 \times \% \Delta d = 2 \times 2.63\% = 5.26\%\]

The percentage uncertainty in resistivity is:
\[\% \Delta \rho = \% \Delta m + \% \Delta A = 1.93\% + 5.26\% = 7.19\%\]

The absolute uncertainty in resistivity is:
\[\Delta \rho = 7.19\% \times 4.71 \times 10^{-7}\text{ }\Omega\text{ m} = 0.34 \times 10^{-7}\text{ }\Omega\text{ m}\]

So, \(\rho = (4.7 \pm 0.3) \times 10^{-7}\text{ }\Omega\text{ m}\) (or \(4.71 \pm 0.34 \times 10^{-7}\text{ }\Omega\text{ m}\)).

PastPaper.markingScheme

- (a) [2 Marks]
- MP1: Voltmeter connected in parallel across the variable length of wire, and ammeter in series with the cell and wire. (1)
- MP2: Correct symbols used for voltmeter, ammeter, cell/power supply, and a method to vary length shown (e.g., sliding contact / arrow on the wire). (1)
- (b) [4 Marks]
- MP1: Use a micrometer screw gauge. (1)
- MP2: Check for and correct for zero error. (1)
- MP3: Measure at multiple positions along the wire and at perpendicular orientations. (1)
- MP4: Calculate mean diameter, then use \(A = \frac{\pi d^2}{4}\). (1)
- (c) [3 Marks]
- MP1: Recall \(R = \frac{\rho L}{A}\). (1)
- MP2: State that the gradient is \(m = \frac{\rho}{A}\). (1)
- MP3: Rearrange to give \(\rho = m \times A\) where \(m\) is the gradient. (1)
- (d) [3.5 Marks]
- MP1: Calculate \(A = 1.13 \times 10^{-7}\text{ m}^2\) and \(\rho = 4.71 \times 10^{-7}\text{ }\Omega\text{ m}\) (accept \(4.7 \times 10^{-7}\)). (1)
- MP2: Calculate percentage uncertainty in \(d\) as \(2.63\%\) and percentage uncertainty in \(A\) as \(5.26\%\). (1)
- MP3: Add percentage uncertainties: \(\% \Delta \rho = 1.93\% + 5.26\% = 7.19\%\). (0.5)
- MP4: Calculate absolute uncertainty as \(\pm 0.3 \times 10^{-7}\text{ }\Omega\text{ m}\) (or \(\pm 0.34 \times 10^{-7}\)), and state final answer with consistent units and decimal places. (1)
PastPaper.question 2 · Structured Practical
12.5 PastPaper.marks
A student is investigating the acceleration of a trolley rolling down an inclined plane to determine the acceleration of free fall \(g\).
The trolley is released from rest at a distance \(d\) from a single light gate connected to a data logger. A card of length \(x\) is mounted on the trolley.

(a) Explain how the data logger and light gate are used to determine the final velocity \(v\) of the trolley as it passes the light gate. (2)

(b) Write an equation relating the final velocity \(v\), the distance \(d\), the angle of inclination \(\theta\), and the acceleration of free fall \(g\), assuming friction is negligible. (2)

(c) Describe how the student can use a series of measurements of \(v\) for different distances \(d\) at a constant angle \(\theta\) to find a value for \(g\) using a graphical method. Identify the variables to be plotted on each axis, the expected shape of the graph, and how the gradient relates to \(g\). (5)

(d) In one trial, \(d = 0.800\text{ m} \pm 0.005\text{ m}\). The velocity \(v\) is recorded as \(1.56\text{ m s}^{-1}\) with a percentage uncertainty of \(2.0\%\). The angle \(\theta = 10.0^\circ \pm 0.5^\circ\). Calculate the percentage uncertainty in the experimental value of \(g\) calculated from this trial. (3.5)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a)
- The light gate measures the time \(t\) for which the beam is interrupted by the card of length \(x\) as the card passes through.
- The data logger calculates the velocity using:
\[v = \frac{x}{t}\]

(b)
- The acceleration along the ramp is given by \(a = g \sin\theta\).
- Using the equation of motion \(v^2 = u^2 + 2as\) where \(u = 0\) and \(s = d\):
\[v^2 = 2(g \sin\theta)d\]
\[v^2 = 2gd \sin\theta\]

(c)
- Plot a graph of \(v^2\) on the y-axis against \(d\) on the x-axis.
- The graph should be a straight line passing through the origin.
- Since \(v^2 = (2g \sin\theta) d\), the gradient \(m\) of this line is \(2g \sin\theta\).
- To find \(g\), measure the angle \(\theta\) using a protractor (or via trigonometry using ruler measurements of the height and length of the inclined plane).
- Calculate \(g\) using:
\[g = \frac{m}{2 \sin\theta}\]
where \(m\) is the gradient.

(d)
From \(g = \frac{v^2}{2 d \sin\theta}\):
- Percentage uncertainty in \(v^2\) is:
\[2 \times \% \Delta v = 2 \times 2.0\% = 4.0\%\]
- Percentage uncertainty in \(d\) is:
\[\% \Delta d = \frac{0.005}{0.800} \times 100\% = 0.625\%\]
- To find the percentage uncertainty in \(\sin\theta\), we look at the absolute variation:
\[\sin(10.0^\circ) = 0.1736\]
\[\sin(10.5^\circ) = 0.1822\]
\[\text{Difference } \Delta(\sin\theta) = 0.1822 - 0.1736 = 0.0086\]
\[\% \Delta (\sin\theta) = \frac{0.0086}{0.1736} \times 100\% = 4.95\%\]
- The total percentage uncertainty in \(g\) is the sum of these percentage uncertainties:
\[\% \Delta g = \% \Delta (v^2) + \% \Delta d + \% \Delta (\sin\theta)\]
\[\% \Delta g = 4.0\% + 0.625\% + 4.95\% = 9.575\% \approx 9.6\%\]

PastPaper.markingScheme

- (a) [2 Marks]
- MP1: Light gate measures the time interval \(t\) for which the card breaks the light beam. (1)
- MP2: Velocity calculated using \(v = \frac{x}{t}\) where \(x\) is the length of the card. (1)
- (b) [2 Marks]
- MP1: Recognize \(a = g \sin\theta\). (1)
- MP2: Correct substitution into \(v^2 = 2ad\) to get \(v^2 = 2gd \sin\theta\). (1)
- (c) [5 Marks]
- MP1: Plot a graph of \(v^2\) on the y-axis against \(d\) on the x-axis (accept \(v\) against \(\sqrt{d}\)). (1)
- MP2: State that the graph is a straight line through the origin. (1)
- MP3: State that the gradient \(m = 2g \sin\theta\) (or equivalent for other plots). (1)
- MP4: Explain how to measure \(\theta\) using a protractor (or trigonometry on the ramp dimensions). (1)
- MP5: Rearrange to find \(g = \frac{m}{2\sin\theta}\). (1)
- (d) [3.5 Marks]
- MP1: Determine percentage uncertainty in \(v^2\) as \(4.0\%\). (1)
- MP2: Determine percentage uncertainty in \(d\) as \(0.625\%\) (or \(0.6\%\)). (0.5)
- MP3: Determine percentage uncertainty in \(\sin\theta\) as \(\approx 5.0\%\) (accept range \(4.9\% - 5.0\%\)). (1)
- MP4: Sum percentage uncertainties to get \(9.6\%\) (accept range \(9.5\% - 9.7\%\)). (1)
PastPaper.question 3 · Structured Practical
12.5 PastPaper.marks
An experiment is performed to determine the Young modulus \(E\) of a copper wire.

(a) Draw a labelled diagram of the experimental setup that could be used in a school laboratory to measure the extension of a long copper wire under tension. (3)

(b) Identify two safety precautions that should be taken during this experiment, explaining the reason for each. (3)

(c) A student records the original length of the wire as \(L_0 = 2.450\text{ m}\) and its diameter as \(d = 0.28\text{ mm}\). When a load of \(15.0\text{ N}\) is applied, the wire extends by \(5.0\text{ mm}\).
(i) Calculate the Young modulus of copper from these measurements. (3)
(ii) Estimate the percentage uncertainty in the value of the Young modulus, given that the uncertainty in the extension measurement is \(\pm 0.2\text{ mm}\), the uncertainty in the diameter is \(\pm 0.01\text{ mm}\), and other uncertainties are negligible. (3.5)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) A well-labelled diagram should include:
- A long test wire clamped firmly between two wooden blocks at one end of the bench.
- The wire passing over a low-friction pulley at the other end of the bench with a weight hanger attached.
- A paper/tape marker attached to the wire near a meter ruler clamped to the bench to measure extension.
- Clearly labeled length \(L_0\) from the clamped wooden blocks to the marker.

(b)
- Goggles/Eye protection: The wire is under high tension and can snap suddenly, which could cause serious eye injuries.
- Sand tray / padded box on the floor: Placed directly below the suspended masses to catch them safely if the wire snaps, preventing injury to feet and damage to the floor.

(c) (i)
- First, calculate the cross-sectional area \(A\):
\[d = 0.28 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m}\]
\[A = \frac{\pi d^2}{4} = \frac{\pi (0.28 \times 10^{-3})^2}{4} = 6.158 \times 10^{-8}\text{ m}^2\]
- Young Modulus \(E\) is given by:
\[E = \frac{\text{Stress}}{\text{Strain}} = \frac{F/A}{\Delta L/L_0} = \frac{F L_0}{A \Delta L}\]
\[E = \frac{15.0 \times 2.450}{6.158 \times 10^{-8} \times 5.0 \times 10^{-3}}\]
\[E = \frac{36.75}{3.079 \times 10^{-10}} = 1.19 \times 10^{11}\text{ Pa}\]
So, \(E \approx 1.2 \times 10^{11}\text{ Pa}\) (or \(\text{N m}^{-2}\)).

(c) (ii)
- Percentage uncertainty in the extension \(\Delta L\):
\[\% \Delta (\Delta L) = \frac{0.2}{5.0} \times 100\% = 4.0\%\]
- Percentage uncertainty in the diameter \(d\):
\[\% \Delta d = \frac{0.01}{0.28} \times 100\% = 3.57\%\]
- Since \(A \propto d^2\), the percentage uncertainty in the cross-sectional area \(A\) is:
\[\% \Delta A = 2 \times \% \Delta d = 2 \times 3.57\% = 7.14\%\]
- The total percentage uncertainty in the Young modulus \(E\) is the sum of the percentage uncertainties in \(A\) and \(\Delta L\) (since other uncertainties are negligible):
\[\% \Delta E = \% \Delta A + \% \Delta (\Delta L) = 7.14\% + 4.0\% = 11.14\% \approx 11\%\]

PastPaper.markingScheme

- (a) [3 Marks]
- MP1: Wire clamped firmly at one end and passing over a pulley with hanging masses. (1)
- MP2: Marker attached to wire, with a parallel scale (meter ruler) positioned nearby. (1)
- MP3: Scale and clamp labelled, including the reference length \(L_0\) clearly shown from the clamped end to the marker. (1)
- (b) [3 Marks]
- MP1: Wear safety goggles / eye protection. (1)
- MP2: Place a protective box/sand tray underneath the weights. (1)
- MP3: Explanation for safety: goggles protect eyes if the wire snaps; box/tray prevents injury to feet/damage to floor if masses fall. (1)
- (c)(i) [3 Marks]
- MP1: Correct calculation of cross-sectional area \(A = 6.16 \times 10^{-8}\text{ m}^2\). (1)
- MP2: Use of \(E = \frac{F L_0}{A \Delta L}\) with substitution. (1)
- MP3: Correct value of \(E \approx 1.2 \times 10^{11}\text{ Pa}\) (accept \(1.19 \times 10^{11}\text{ Pa}\) or \(\text{N m}^{-2}\)). (1)
- (c)(ii) [3.5 Marks]
- MP1: Calculate percentage uncertainty in \(\Delta L\) as \(4.0\%\). (1)
- MP2: Calculate percentage uncertainty in \(d\) as \(3.57\%\) (accept \(3.6\%\)). (0.5)
- MP3: Double percentage uncertainty in \(d\) to get percentage uncertainty in area \(A\) as \(7.14\%\) (accept \(7.1\%\) or \(7.2\%\)). (1)
- MP4: Sum percentage uncertainties to get \(11.1\%\) (accept range \(11\% - 11.2\%\)). (1)
PastPaper.question 4 · Structured Practical
12.5 PastPaper.marks
A student determines the speed of sound in air using a resonance tube closed at one end. The tube is placed in a cylinder of water, and its length \(L\) above the water level is adjusted until resonance is heard for a tuning fork of frequency \(f\).

(a) The student sets up the resonance for the fundamental frequency (first harmonic). State the relation between the wavelength \(\lambda\) and the length \(L\), taking into account an end correction \(c\). (2)

(b) Describe how the student should perform this experiment to find a reliable value for the speed of sound by using a range of different tuning forks. (5)

(c) Explain why a graph of \(L\) on the y-axis against \(1/f\) on the x-axis is a straight line, and how both the speed of sound and the end correction can be determined from the gradient and the y-intercept of this graph. (3.5)

(d) If the gradient of the graph is \(84.5\text{ m s}^{-1}\) and the y-intercept is \(-1.2\text{ cm}\), determine:
(i) the speed of sound in air.
(ii) the end correction. (2)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a)
- For the fundamental frequency, the length of the column plus the end correction is equal to one quarter of a wavelength:
\[L + c = \frac{\lambda}{4}\]
\[\lambda = 4(L + c)\]

(b)
- Select a tuning fork of known frequency \(f\) and strike it against a rubber block to cause it to vibrate.
- Hold the vibrating tuning fork horizontally just above the open end of the tube.
- Slowly adjust the vertical position of the tube in the water until a distinct maximum in loudness (resonance) is heard.
- Measure the length \(L\) from the top of the tube to the water level using a meter ruler.
- Repeat this measurement to obtain a mean value of \(L\) for that frequency.
- Repeat the entire procedure for at least 5 different tuning forks with a range of frequencies (e.g., between \(256\text{ Hz}\) and \(512\text{ Hz}\)).

(c)
- Substituting \(\lambda = \frac{v}{f}\) into the equation \(L + c = \frac{\lambda}{4}\):
\[L + c = \frac{v}{4f}\]
\[L = \frac{v}{4}\left(\frac{1}{f}\right) - c\]
- Comparing this to the equation of a straight line, \(y = mx + c'\), where \(y = L\) and \(x = 1/f\):
- The gradient \(m = \frac{v}{4}\), so the speed of sound is given by:
\[v = 4 \times \text{gradient}\]
- The y-intercept is \(-c\), so the end correction is:
\[c = -\text{y-intercept}\]

(d)
- (i) The speed of sound in air is:
\[v = 4 \times 84.5\text{ m s}^{-1} = 338\text{ m s}^{-1}\]
- (ii) The end correction is:
\[c = -(-1.2\text{ cm}) = 1.2\text{ cm}\text{ (or } 0.012\text{ m)}\]

PastPaper.markingScheme

- (a) [2 Marks]
- MP1: State that \(L + c = \frac{\lambda}{4}\). (1)
- MP2: Correctly express relationship as \(\lambda = 4(L + c)\). (1)
- (b) [5 Marks]
- MP1: Strike a tuning fork of known frequency and hold it over the open tube. (1)
- MP2: Move the tube up/down in the water until maximum sound intensity/loudness is heard. (1)
- MP3: Measure \(L\) from top of tube to the water meniscus using a ruler. (1)
- MP4: Repeat the measurement of \(L\) and find a mean for that frequency. (1)
- MP5: Repeat for a range of different frequencies (at least 5 different tuning forks). (1)
- (c) [3.5 Marks]
- MP1: Substitute \(v = f\lambda\) to obtain \(L = \frac{v}{4f} - c\). (1)
- MP2: State that this matches \(y = mx + c\) where \(y = L\), \(x = 1/f\), and the graph is a straight line. (1)
- MP3: State that \(v = 4 \times \text{gradient}\). (1)
- MP4: State that the end correction \(c = -\text{y-intercept}\) (or y-intercept is \(-c\)). (0.5)
- (d) [2 Marks]
- MP1: Speed of sound \(v = 4 \times 84.5 = 338\text{ m s}^{-1}\). (1)
- MP2: End correction \(c = 1.2\text{ cm}\) (or \(0.012\text{ m}\)). (1)

Unit 4 Section A

Answer all ten multiple choice questions covering further mechanics, fields, and particles.
10 PastPaper.question · 10 PastPaper.marks
PastPaper.question 1 · MCQ
1 PastPaper.marks
A ball of mass \(m\) collides with a vertical wall at speed \(v\) at an angle \(\theta\) to the normal. It rebounds with the same speed at the same angle \(\theta\) to the normal. What is the magnitude of the change in momentum of the ball?
  1. A.\(2mv \cos \theta\)
  2. B.\(2mv \sin \theta\)
  3. C.\(2mv\)
  4. D.0
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The momentum perpendicular to the wall changes from \(mv \cos \theta\) (towards the wall) to \(-mv \cos \theta\) (away from the wall). The change in the perpendicular component of momentum is \(\Delta p = mv \cos \theta - (-mv \cos \theta) = 2mv \cos \theta\). The momentum parallel to the wall is \(mv \sin \theta\) both before and after the collision, so it remains unchanged. Therefore, the magnitude of the total change in momentum is \(2mv \cos \theta\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for correct option A.
PastPaper.question 2 · MCQ
1 PastPaper.marks
A capacitor of capacitance \(C\) is discharged through a resistor of resistance \(R\). After a time \(t = 2RC\), which of the following gives the fraction of the initial charge remaining on the capacitor?
  1. A.\(e^{-2}\)
  2. B.\(1 - e^{-2}\)
  3. C.\(e^{-1/2}\)
  4. D.\(0.50\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The charge on a discharging capacitor is given by \(Q = Q_0 e^{-\frac{t}{RC}}\). Substituting \(t = 2RC\) gives \(Q = Q_0 e^{-\frac{2RC}{RC}} = Q_0 e^{-2}\). The fraction of the initial charge remaining is \(\frac{Q}{Q_0} = e^{-2}\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for correct option A.
PastPaper.question 3 · MCQ
1 PastPaper.marks
A baryon has a strangeness of \(-2\) and an electric charge of \(0\). What is its quark composition?
  1. A.\(uss\)
  2. B.\(dss\)
  3. C.\(uds\)
  4. D.\(sss\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

A strangeness of \(-2\) means the baryon contains two strange quarks (\(s\)), each with a strangeness of \(-1\). A baryon consists of three quarks, so its composition is \(qss\), where \(q\) is a third quark. The charge of a strange quark is \(-\frac{1}{3}e\), so two strange quarks have a total charge of \(-\frac{2}{3}e\). For the baryon to have a net charge of \(0\), the third quark must have a charge of \(+\frac{2}{3}e\), which is the charge of an up quark (\(u\)). Therefore, the quark composition is \(uss\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for correct option A.
PastPaper.question 4 · MCQ
1 PastPaper.marks
A charged particle of mass \(m\) and charge \(q\) enters a uniform magnetic field of flux density \(B\) perpendicularly with velocity \(v\). The radius of its circular path is \(r\). A second particle with twice the mass, twice the charge, and twice the kinetic energy of the first particle enters the same magnetic field perpendicularly. What is the radius of the circular path of the second particle?
  1. A.\(r\)
  2. B.\(\sqrt{2} r\)
  3. C.\(2r\)
  4. D.\(4r\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The radius of the path of a charged particle in a magnetic field is given by \(r = \frac{p}{qB} = \frac{\sqrt{2m E_k}}{qB}\). For the second particle: \(m' = 2m\), \(q' = 2q\), and \(E_k' = 2E_k\). The new radius \(r'\) is: \(r' = \frac{\sqrt{2 m' E_k'}}{q' B} = \frac{\sqrt{2(2m)(2E_k)}}{2qB} = \frac{\sqrt{8 m E_k}}{2qB} = \frac{2\sqrt{2 m E_k}}{2qB} = \frac{\sqrt{2 m E_k}}{qB} = r\). Thus, the radius of the path remains \(r\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for correct option A.
PastPaper.question 5 · MCQ
1 PastPaper.marks
In a linear accelerator (linac), protons are accelerated through a series of hollow metal tubes connected to an alternating high-frequency voltage source. Why do the metal tubes increase in length along the accelerator?
  1. A.To keep the transit time of the protons through each tube constant as their speed increases.
  2. B.To increase the accelerating electric field strength across the gaps.
  3. C.To decrease the frequency of the alternating voltage source as the protons speed up.
  4. D.To protect the protons from stray magnetic fields.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The frequency of the alternating voltage source is constant, meaning the polarity of the tubes changes at regular time intervals. For the protons to always experience an accelerating electric field in the gaps between tubes, the transit time through each tube must be constant (equal to half the period of the alternating voltage). As the protons accelerate and their speed increases, they travel a greater distance in this same time interval. Therefore, the tubes must become progressively longer.

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for correct option A.
PastPaper.question 6 · MCQ
1 PastPaper.marks
A small toy car of mass \(m\) travels at a constant speed \(v\) over a humpbacked bridge which has a circular profile of radius \(r\). Which expression gives the normal contact force \(R\) exerted by the road on the car at the highest point of the bridge?
  1. A.\(R = mg - \frac{mv^2}{r}\)
  2. B.\(R = mg + \frac{mv^2}{r}\)
  3. C.\(R = \frac{mv^2}{r} - mg\)
  4. D.\(R = mg\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

At the highest point of the bridge, the centripetal acceleration is directed vertically downwards towards the center of the circle. The forces acting on the car are the weight \(mg\) downwards and the normal contact force \(R\) upwards. The resultant downward force is the centripetal force: \(F_c = mg - R = \frac{mv^2}{r}\). Rearranging for \(R\) gives \(R = mg - \frac{mv^2}{r}\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for correct option A.
PastPaper.question 7 · MCQ
1 PastPaper.marks
A flat circular coil of \(N\) turns and cross-sectional area \(A\) is placed in a uniform magnetic field of flux density \(B\). Initially, the plane of the coil is perpendicular to the magnetic field. The coil is then rotated through an angle of \(60^\circ\) about an axis perpendicular to the field. What is the magnitude of the change in the magnetic flux linkage of the coil?
  1. A.\(0.50 BAN\)
  2. B.\(0.87 BAN\)
  3. C.\(1.0 BAN\)
  4. D.\(1.5 BAN\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

Initially, the magnetic flux linkage is maximum because the field is perpendicular to the plane of the coil (the normal to the plane is parallel to the field, so \(\theta = 0^\circ\)): \(\Phi_1 = BAN \cos(0^\circ) = BAN\). When the coil is rotated through \(60^\circ\), the angle between the normal to the coil and the magnetic field becomes \(60^\circ\). The new flux linkage is: \(\Phi_2 = BAN \cos(60^\circ) = 0.50 BAN\). The magnitude of the change in flux linkage is: \(\Delta \Phi = \Phi_1 - \Phi_2 = BAN - 0.50 BAN = 0.50 BAN\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for correct option A.
PastPaper.question 8 · MCQ
1 PastPaper.marks
Two point charges, \(+Q\) and \(-4Q\), are separated by a distance \(d\) in a vacuum. At what distance from the charge \(+Q\), on the line between the two charges, is the electric potential equal to zero?
  1. A.\(0.20 d\)
  2. B.\(0.25 d\)
  3. C.\(0.33 d\)
  4. D.\(0.50 d\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

Let the position of the charge \(+Q\) be at \(x = 0\) and the charge \(-4Q\) be at \(x = d\). For a point between the charges at distance \(x\) from \(+Q\), where \(0 < x < d\), the electric potential \(V\) is the sum of the potentials due to both charges: \(V = \frac{kQ}{x} + \frac{k(-4Q)}{d - x} = 0\). This simplifies to \(\frac{1}{x} = \frac{4}{d - x}\). Solving for \(x\): \(d - x = 4x \implies 5x = d \implies x = 0.20 d\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for correct option A.
PastPaper.question 9 · MCQ
1 PastPaper.marks
A capacitor of capacitance \(C\) is fully charged and then discharged through a resistor of resistance \(R\). What is the time taken for the energy stored in the capacitor to decrease to \(\frac{1}{e}\) of its initial value?
  1. A.\(\frac{RC}{2}\)
  2. B.\(RC \ln(2)\)
  3. C.\(RC\)
  4. D.\(2RC\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The charge \(Q\) on a discharging capacitor at time \(t\) is given by:
\(Q = Q_0 e^{-\frac{t}{RC}}\)

The energy \(E\) stored in the capacitor is given by:
\(E = \frac{Q^2}{2C}\)

Substituting the expression for \(Q\) into the energy formula gives:
\(E = \frac{(Q_0 e^{-\frac{t}{RC}})^2}{2C} = \frac{Q_0^2}{2C} e^{-\frac{2t}{RC}} = E_0 e^{-\frac{2t}{RC}}\)

We want to find the time \(t\) at which the energy has decreased to \(\frac{1}{e}\) of its initial value \(E_0\):
\(E = \frac{E_0}{e} = E_0 e^{-1}\)

Equating the two expressions for \(E\):
\(E_0 e^{-\frac{2t}{RC}} = E_0 e^{-1}\)
\(e^{-\frac{2t}{RC}} = e^{-1}\)

Taking the natural logarithm of both sides:
\(-\frac{2t}{RC} = -1\)
\(t = \frac{RC}{2}\)

PastPaper.markingScheme

Award 1 mark for the correct answer A.
Method: Deduce energy decay formula \(E = E_0 e^{-2t/RC}\) using \(E \propto Q^2\), substitute \(E = E_0/e\), and solve for \(t = RC/2\).
PastPaper.question 10 · MCQ
1 PastPaper.marks
A small object of mass \(m\) is attached to a light, inextensible string of length \(L\) and whirled in a vertical circle. If the tension in the string at the highest point of the path is zero, what is the speed of the object at the lowest point of the path? (Assume air resistance is negligible and acceleration due to gravity is \(g\).)
  1. A.\(\sqrt{3gL}\)
  2. B.\(\sqrt{4gL}\)
  3. C.\(\sqrt{5gL}\)
  4. D.\(\sqrt{6gL}\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

At the highest point of the vertical circular path, the forces acting on the object are its weight \(mg\) and the tension \(T\) in the string, both pointing downwards towards the centre of the circle. The centripetal force equation at the top is:
\(T + mg = \frac{m v_{\text{top}}^2}{L}\)

Since the tension \(T\) at the highest point is zero:
\(mg = \frac{m v_{\text{top}}^2}{L} \implies v_{\text{top}}^2 = gL\)

Using conservation of mechanical energy between the highest point and the lowest point, and taking the lowest point as the reference level for gravitational potential energy:
\(E_{\text{top}} = E_{\text{bottom}}\)
\(m g (2L) + \frac{1}{2} m v_{\text{top}}^2 = \frac{1}{2} m v_{\text{bottom}}^2\)

Substitute \(v_{\text{top}}^2 = gL\):
\(2mgL + \frac{1}{2}mgL = \frac{1}{2} m v_{\text{bottom}}^2\)
\(2.5mgL = \frac{1}{2} m v_{\text{bottom}}^2\)
\(v_{\text{bottom}}^2 = 5gL\)
\(v_{\text{bottom}} = \sqrt{5gL}\)

PastPaper.markingScheme

Award 1 mark for the correct answer C.
Method: Apply circular motion criteria at the top to find \(v^2_{\text{top}} = gL\), apply conservation of mechanical energy between top and bottom, and solve for speed at the bottom.

Unit 4 Section B

Answer all structured calculations and explanations.
8 PastPaper.question · 80 PastPaper.marks
PastPaper.question 1 · Structured
10 PastPaper.marks
A toy car of mass \( 0.25 \text{ kg} \) is placed on a vertical loop-the-loop track of radius \( 0.40 \text{ m} \).

**(a)** Show that the minimum speed of the toy car at the top of the loop to maintain contact is approximately \( 2.0 \text{ m s}^{-1} \). (3 marks)

**(b)** The car is launched using a spring mechanism with a force constant of \( 180 \text{ N m}^{-1} \). Calculate the minimum compression of the spring required for the car to successfully complete the loop, assuming resistive forces are negligible. (4 marks)

**(c)** In practice, the car experiences air resistance and friction. Explain, with reference to forces and energy, how the minimum speed required to complete the loop would change, and what would happen if the car was launched with a speed slightly less than this required minimum. (3 marks)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

**(a)** At the top of the loop, the forces acting downwards are the weight of the car \( mg \) and the normal reaction force \( N \).
For circular motion: \( mg + N = \frac{m v^2}{R} \).
To maintain contact, the minimum speed occurs when \( N = 0 \).
Therefore, \( mg = \frac{m v^2}{R} \implies v = \sqrt{g R} \).
\( v = \sqrt{9.81 \text{ m s}^{-2} \times 0.40 \text{ m}} = 1.98 \text{ m s}^{-1} \approx 2.0 \text{ m s}^{-1} \).

**(b)** By conservation of energy, the elastic potential energy stored in the spring must equal the sum of the gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy at the top of the loop:
\( E_{\text{elastic}} = E_{k} + E_{p} \)
\( \frac{1}{2} k x^2 = \frac{1}{2} m v^2 + m g (2R) \)
Substituting minimum speed \( v^2 = g R \):
\( \frac{1}{2} k x^2 = \frac{1}{2} m (g R) + 2 m g R = 2.5 m g R \)
\( \frac{1}{2} (180) x^2 = 2.5 \times 0.25 \times 9.81 \times 0.40 \)
\( 90 x^2 = 2.4525 \text{ J} \)
\( x^2 = 0.02725 \implies x \approx 0.165 \text{ m} \approx 0.17 \text{ m} \).

**(c)** The minimum speed required at the top is determined solely by gravity and track geometry (i.e., \( v = \sqrt{gR} \)), so the required speed *at the top* remains unchanged. However, because energy is dissipated as heat and sound by resistive forces, a greater initial launch speed (and thus greater spring compression) is needed. If the car is launched with a speed slightly less than this required minimum, it will not have enough kinetic energy to reach the top at \( 1.98 \text{ m s}^{-1} \). The normal force will drop to zero before the top, and the car will lose contact and fall in a parabolic projectile trajectory.

PastPaper.markingScheme

**(a)**
- Equates centripetal force to gravitational force for minimum speed (1)
- Rearranges to show \( v = \sqrt{g R} \) (1)
- Calculates \( 1.98 \text{ m s}^{-1} \) and concludes \( \approx 2.0 \text{ m s}^{-1} \) (1)

**(b)**
- Identifies conservation of energy equation: \( \frac{1}{2} k x^2 = \frac{1}{2} m v^2 + m g h \) (1)
- Recognizes height at the top is \( 2R = 0.80 \text{ m} \) (1)
- Substitutes values correctly: \( 90 x^2 = 2.45 \) (1)
- Calculates \( x = 0.17 \text{ m} \) (or \( 0.165 \text{ m} \)) (1)

**(c)**
- States that the minimum speed required at the top is unchanged as it depends only on \( g \) and \( R \) (1)
- Explains that the launch speed/energy must increase to compensate for work done against friction/resistive forces (1)
- Explains that if launched below this speed, the normal force becomes zero before the top and the car falls/loses contact (1)
PastPaper.question 2 · Structured
10 PastPaper.marks
A puck A of mass \( m_A = 0.40 \text{ kg} \) is moving with velocity \( u_A = 3.0 \text{ m s}^{-1} \) along the x-axis. It collides with a stationary puck B of mass \( m_B = 0.60 \text{ kg} \).

After the collision, puck A moves off at an angle of \( 53.13^\circ \) above the x-axis with a speed of \( v_A = 1.8 \text{ m s}^{-1} \). Puck B moves off at an angle \( \theta \) below the x-axis with a speed of \( v_B \).

**(a)** By considering conservation of momentum parallel to and perpendicular to the original direction of Puck A, calculate the speed \( v_B \) and the angle \( \theta \). (6 marks)

**(b)** Determine whether the collision is elastic or inelastic. (4 marks)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

**(a)**
Let us resolve momentum along the x-axis (parallel to original motion):
\( P_{i,x} = m_A u_A = 0.40 \times 3.0 = 1.20 \text{ kg m s}^{-1} \)
\( P_{f,x} = m_A v_A \cos(53.13^\circ) + m_B v_B \cos(\theta) \)
\( 1.20 = 0.40 \times 1.8 \times 0.60 + 0.60 v_{B,x} \)
\( 1.20 = 0.432 + 0.60 v_{B,x} \implies 0.60 v_{B,x} = 0.768 \implies v_{B,x} = 1.28 \text{ m s}^{-1} \)

Now resolve momentum along the y-axis (perpendicular to original motion):
\( P_{i,y} = 0 \)
\( P_{f,y} = m_A v_A \sin(53.13^\circ) - m_B v_B \sin(\theta) \)
\( 0 = 0.40 \times 1.8 \times 0.80 - 0.60 v_{B,y} \)
\( 0 = 0.576 - 0.60 v_{B,y} \implies 0.60 v_{B,y} = 0.576 \implies v_{B,y} = 0.96 \text{ m s}^{-1} \)

Calculate speed \( v_B \):
\( v_B = \sqrt{v_{B,x}^2 + v_{B,y}^2} = \sqrt{1.28^2 + 0.96^2} = \sqrt{1.6384 + 0.9216} = \sqrt{2.56} = 1.60 \text{ m s}^{-1} \).

Calculate angle \( \theta \):
\( \tan(\theta) = \frac{v_{B,y}}{v_{B,x}} = \frac{0.96}{1.28} = 0.75 \implies \theta = 36.87^\circ \approx 37^\circ \).

**(b)**
An elastic collision conserves kinetic energy.
Initial kinetic energy:
\( E_{k,i} = \frac{1}{2} m_A u_A^2 = \frac{1}{2} (0.40) (3.0)^2 = 1.80 \text{ J} \).
Final kinetic energy:
\( E_{k,f} = \frac{1}{2} m_A v_A^2 + \frac{1}{2} m_B v_B^2 = \frac{1}{2} (0.40) (1.8)^2 + \frac{1}{2} (0.60) (1.6)^2 \)
\( E_{k,f} = 0.20 \times 3.24 + 0.30 \times 2.56 = 0.648 + 0.768 = 1.416 \text{ J} \).
Since \( E_{k,f} < E_{k,i} \) (\( 1.416 \text{ J} < 1.80 \text{ J} \)), kinetic energy is not conserved. Hence, the collision is inelastic.

PastPaper.markingScheme

**(a)**
- Calculates initial momentum along the x-axis as \( 1.20 \text{ kg m s}^{-1} \) (1)
- Uses conservation of momentum in the x-direction to find \( v_{B,x} = 1.28 \text{ m s}^{-1} \) (1)
- Uses conservation of momentum in the y-direction to find \( v_{B,y} = 0.96 \text{ m s}^{-1} \) (1)
- Uses Pythagoras' theorem to find total speed \( v_B \) (1)
- Obtains \( v_B = 1.60 \text{ m s}^{-1} \) (1)
- Calculates the angle \( \theta \approx 37^\circ \) (or \( 36.9^\circ \)) (1)

**(b)**
- Evaluates initial kinetic energy of the system as \( 1.80 \text{ J} \) (1)
- Evaluates final kinetic energy of the system as \( 1.42 \text{ J} \) (1)
- Compares the two values and states they are unequal (1)
- Concludes that the collision is inelastic because kinetic energy is not conserved (1)
PastPaper.question 3 · Structured
10 PastPaper.marks
A capacitor of capacitance \( C \) is connected in a circuit with a resistor of resistance \( R = 15 \text{ k}\Omega \) and a \( 12 \text{ V} \) power supply. The capacitor is fully charged and then discharged through the resistor. At time \( t = 4.5 \text{ s} \), the potential difference across the capacitor has decreased to \( 4.4 \text{ V} \).

**(a)** Show that the capacitance \( C \) is approximately \( 300 \\ \mu\text{F} \). (4 marks)

**(b)** Calculate the energy stored in the capacitor when it is fully charged, and the energy remaining in the capacitor at \( t = 4.5 \text{ s} \). (3 marks)

**(c)** The camera flash requires a minimum energy of \( 15 \text{ mJ} \) to operate. Determine the time for which the flash can be operated after being fully charged, assuming it discharges through the same \( 15 \text{ k}\Omega \) resistor. (3 marks)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

**(a)** The equation for capacitor discharge is:
\( V = V_0 e^{-t/RC} \)
Given \( V_0 = 12 \text{ V} \), \( V = 4.4 \text{ V} \), \( t = 4.5 \text{ s} \), and \( R = 15000 \\ \Omega \):
\( 4.4 = 12 e^{-4.5 / (15000 C)} \)
\( \frac{4.4}{12} = e^{-4.5 / (15000 C)} \)
\( \ln(0.3667) = -\frac{4.5}{15000 C} \)
\( -1.0033 = -\frac{4.5}{15000 C} \)
\( C = \frac{4.5}{15000 \times 1.0033} \approx 2.99 \times 10^{-4} \text{ F} = 299 \\ \mu\text{F} \approx 300 \\ \mu\text{F} \).

**(b)**
Energy stored when fully charged (using \( C = 2.99 \times 10^{-4} \text{ F} \)):
\( E_0 = \frac{1}{2} C V_0^2 = \frac{1}{2} \times (2.99 \times 10^{-4} \text{ F}) \times (12 \text{ V})^2 = 0.0215 \text{ J} = 21.5 \text{ mJ} \).
(If using \( C = 300 \\ \mu\text{F} \), \( E_0 = 21.6 \text{ mJ} \)).

Energy stored at \( t = 4.5 \text{ s} \):
\( E = \frac{1}{2} C V^2 = \frac{1}{2} \times (2.99 \times 10^{-4} \text{ F}) \times (4.4 \text{ V})^2 = 2.90 \times 10^{-3} \text{ J} = 2.90 \text{ mJ} \).
(If using \( C = 300 \\ \mu\text{F} \), \( E = 2.90 \text{ mJ} \)).

**(c)**
We want the energy to drop to \( 15 \text{ mJ} = 0.015 \text{ J} \).
Since \( E = \frac{1}{2} C V^2 \) and \( V = V_0 e^{-t/RC} \), the energy as a function of time is:
\( E = E_0 e^{-2t/RC} \)
\( 15 \text{ mJ} = 21.5 \text{ mJ} \times e^{-2t / RC} \)
\( \frac{15}{21.5} = e^{-2t / (15000 \times 2.99 \times 10^{-4})} \)
\( 0.6977 = e^{-2t / 4.485} \)
\( \ln(0.6977) = -\frac{2t}{4.485} \)
\( -0.3599 = -\frac{2t}{4.485} \)
\( 2t = 1.614 \implies t \approx 0.81 \text{ s} \).
(If using \( C = 300 \\ \mu\text{F} \), \( E_0 = 21.6 \text{ mJ} \), \( 15/21.6 = e^{-2t/4.5} \implies \ln(0.694) = -2t/4.5 \implies 2t = 1.64 \implies t = 0.82 \text{ s} \)).

PastPaper.markingScheme

**(a)**
- Selects and uses \( V = V_0 e^{-t/RC} \) (1)
- Substitutes values correctly into equation: \( 4.4 = 12 e^{-4.5 / (15000 C)} \) (1)
- Applies natural logarithm correctly to isolate \( C \) (1)
- Arrives at \( C = 2.99 \times 10^{-4} \text{ F} \) and states that this is \( \approx 300 \\ \mu\text{F} \) (1)

**(b)**
- Uses \( E = \frac{1}{2} C V^2 \) (1)
- Calculates initial energy as \( 21.5 \text{ mJ} \) (or \( 21.6 \text{ mJ} \)) (1)
- Calculates remaining energy at \( t = 4.5 \text{ s} \) as \( 2.90 \text{ mJ} \) (1)

**(c)**
- Identifies that \( E \propto V^2 \) leads to \( E = E_0 e^{-2t/RC} \) (or calculates the required voltage \( V = 10.0 \text{ V} \) corresponding to \( 15 \text{ mJ} \)) (1)
- Substitutes values into decay formula (1)
- Obtains a time in the range \( 0.81 \text{ s} \) to \( 0.82 \text{ s} \) (1)
PastPaper.question 4 · Structured
10 PastPaper.marks
A mass spectrometer is used to analyze a beam of singly-charged positive lithium ions.

**(a)** The velocity selector in the spectrometer consists of perpendicular electric and magnetic fields. Explain how this combination of fields selects ions of a specific velocity \( v \). Derive an expression for \( v \) in terms of the electric field strength \( E \) and the magnetic field strength \( B_1 \). (4 marks)

**(b)** Ions of lithium-6 (\( {}^{6}\text{Li}^{+} \), mass \( \approx 6.015 \text{ u} \)) and lithium-7 (\( {}^{7}\text{Li}^{+} \), mass \( \approx 7.016 \text{ u} \)) exit the velocity selector at a speed of \( 2.4 \times 10^5 \text{ m s}^{-1} \) and enter a region of uniform magnetic field \( B_2 = 0.35 \text{ T} \) perpendicular to their path. Calculate the separation of the two isotopes after they have completed a semi-circular path and strike a detector.

Take \( 1 \text{ u} = 1.66 \times 10^{-27} \text{ kg} \) and \( e = 1.60 \times 10^{-19} \text{ C} \). (4 marks)

**(c)** Suggest how the path of a doubly-charged lithium-6 ion (\( {}^{6}\text{Li}^{2+} \)) would differ from that of the singly-charged ion as they pass through the magnetic field region. (2 marks)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

**(a)** An ion entering the selector experiences an electric force \( F_E = q E \) and a magnetic force \( F_B = q v B_1 \). These fields are oriented so that the forces act in opposite directions. Only ions with a velocity where these forces are equal and opposite will pass straight through undeflected.
Setting forces equal:
\( q E = q v B_1 \implies v = \frac{E}{B_1} \).

**(b)** In the region with magnetic field \( B_2 \), the magnetic force provides the centripetal force:
\( q v B_2 = \frac{m v^2}{r} \implies r = \frac{m v}{q B_2} \).

Let \( m_1 \) be the mass of \( {}^{6}\text{Li}^{+} \):
\( m_1 = 6.015 \times 1.66 \times 10^{-27} \text{ kg} = 9.985 \times 10^{-27} \text{ kg} \).
\( r_1 = \frac{(9.985 \times 10^{-27} \text{ kg}) \times (2.4 \times 10^5 \text{ m s}^{-1})}{(1.60 \times 10^{-19} \text{ C}) \times 0.35 \text{ T}} = 0.0428 \text{ m} \).

Let \( m_2 \) be the mass of \( {}^{7}\text{Li}^{+} \):
\( m_2 = 7.016 \times 1.66 \times 10^{-27} \text{ kg} = 1.165 \times 10^{-26} \text{ kg} \).
\( r_2 = \frac{(1.165 \times 10^{-26} \text{ kg}) \times (2.4 \times 10^5 \text{ m s}^{-1})}{(1.60 \times 10^{-19} \text{ C}) \times 0.35 \text{ T}} = 0.0499 \text{ m} \).

For a semi-circular path, the displacement is the diameter \( d = 2r \). The separation \( \Delta d \) at the detector is:
\( \Delta d = 2(r_2 - r_1) = 2 \times (0.0499 - 0.0428) = 2 \times 0.0071 \text{ m} = 0.0142 \text{ m} \approx 1.4 \text{ cm} \).

**(c)** Since \( r = \frac{m v}{q B} \), doubling the charge \( q \) to \( 2e \) will halve the radius of the circular path. The ion will still curve in the same direction but will trace out a path with a smaller radius (exactly half, i.e., \( 2.14 \text{ cm} \)).

PastPaper.markingScheme

**(a)**
- Mentions electric force is \( qE \) and magnetic force is \( qvB \) acting in opposite directions (1)
- Explains that only undeflected ions pass through, meaning net force is zero (1)
- Equates forces: \( qE = qvB_1 \) (1)
- Correctly derives \( v = E/B_1 \) (1)

**(b)**
- Equates magnetic force to centripetal force to obtain expression for radius: \( r = \frac{m v}{q B_2} \) (1)
- Calculates mass values in kg or calculates mass difference \( \Delta m = 1.001 \text{ u} = 1.66 \times 10^{-27} \text{ kg} \) (1)
- Identifies that separation is \( 2 \Delta r \) (difference in diameters) (1)
- Calculates separation to be \( 1.4 \text{ cm} \) (or \( 1.42 \text{ cm} \) or \( 0.014 \text{ m} \)) (1)

**(c)**
- States that the radius of the path will be smaller / halved (1)
- Explains that the direction of deflection is unchanged (deflects to the same side) (1)
PastPaper.question 5 · Structured
10 PastPaper.marks
A search coil with \( 250 \) turns and a cross-sectional area of \( 4.0 \text{ cm}^2 \) is placed inside a solenoid. The magnetic flux density \( B \) inside the solenoid varies according to the equation \( B = B_0 \sin(2\pi f t) \), where \( B_0 = 15 \text{ mT} \) and \( f = 50 \text{ Hz} \).

**(a)** Define magnetic flux linkage. (2 marks)

**(b)** Calculate the maximum magnetic flux linkage through the search coil. (3 marks)

**(c)** State and explain how the induced e.m.f. in the search coil varies with time, and calculate the maximum induced e.m.f. in the coil. (5 marks)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

**(a)** Magnetic flux linkage is the product of the magnetic flux passing normally through a loop and the number of turns in the coil. Mathematically, it is given by \( N \Phi = N B A \cos(\theta) \) where \( B \) is the magnetic flux density, \( A \) is the area, and \( N \) is the number of turns.

**(b)**
Maximum flux linkage occurs when \( B = B_0 \) and \( \cos(\theta) = 1 \):
\( (N \Phi)_{\text{max}} = N B_0 A \)
Convert area to \( \text{m}^2 \):
\( A = 4.0 \text{ cm}^2 = 4.0 \times 10^{-4} \text{ m}^2 \).
\( (N \Phi)_{\text{max}} = 250 \times (15 \times 10^{-3} \text{ T}) \times (4.0 \times 10^{-4} \text{ m}^2) \)
\( (N \Phi)_{\text{max}} = 1.5 \times 10^{-3} \text{ Wb-turns} \).

**(c)**
According to Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction, the induced e.m.f. \( \varepsilon \) is equal to the rate of change of magnetic flux linkage:
\( \varepsilon = -\frac{d(N\Phi)}{dt} \).

Since \( B \) varies as a sine wave \( B = B_0 \sin(2\pi f t) \), the flux linkage also varies as a sine wave.
Its rate of change (and therefore the induced e.m.f.) varies as a cosine wave (shifted by \( 90^\circ \) or \( \pi/2 \text{ rad} \) relative to the flux density).

The maximum rate of change of the magnetic flux density is:
\( \left(\frac{dB}{dt}\right)_{\text{max}} = 2\pi f B_0 \).

Thus, the maximum induced e.m.f. is:
\( \varepsilon_{\text{max}} = N A \left(\frac{dB}{dt}\right)_{\text{max}} = N A (2\pi f B_0) \)
\( \varepsilon_{\text{max}} = 250 \times (4.0 \times 10^{-4} \text{ m}^2) \times 2\pi \times 50 \text{ s}^{-1} \times 0.015 \text{ T} \)
\( \varepsilon_{\text{max}} = 0.10 \times 314.16 \times 0.015 = 0.471 \text{ V} \approx 0.47 \text{ V} \).

PastPaper.markingScheme

**(a)**
- Defines flux linkage as product of flux and number of turns (1)
- Specifies that the magnetic field must be perpendicular to the loop area (or includes \( \cos\theta \)) (1)

**(b)**
- Converts area correctly to \( 4.0 \times 10^{-4} \text{ m}^2 \) (1)
- Uses formula \( N B A \) (1)
- Calculates maximum flux linkage to be \( 1.5 \times 10^{-3} \text{ Wb-turns} \) (1)

**(c)**
- States Faraday's Law: induced e.m.f. is proportional to the rate of change of flux linkage (1)
- Identifies that the induced e.m.f. will vary sinusoidally / as a cosine wave (shifted by \( 90^\circ \)) (1)
- Recognizes that maximum rate of change occurs when flux is passing through zero (1)
- Employs derivative or rate-of-change formula: \( \varepsilon_{\text{max}} = N A \omega B_0 \) (1)
- Calculates maximum e.m.f. correctly as \( 0.47 \text{ V} \) (1)
PastPaper.question 6 · Structured
10 PastPaper.marks
Protons are accelerated in a cyclotron to a kinetic energy of \( 15 \text{ MeV} \).

**(a)** Explain the roles of the electric field and the magnetic field in a cyclotron. (4 marks)

**(b)** Show that the speed of a proton with kinetic energy of \( 15 \text{ MeV} \) is approximately \( 5.4 \times 10^7 \text{ m s}^{-1} \). (3 marks)

**(c)** Calculate the de Broglie wavelength of these protons and explain whether they would be suitable for investigating the structure of a proton of diameter \( 10^{-15} \text{ m} \). (3 marks)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

**(a)**
- The magnetic field is uniform and perpendicular to the plane of the dees. It exerts a magnetic force \( F = qvB \) perpendicular to the motion of the protons, which acts as a centripetal force and keeps the protons in a circular path.
- The electric field is located in the gap between the two dees. It accelerates the protons each time they cross the gap, increasing their kinetic energy and speed.
- An alternating potential difference is applied so that the electric field reverses direction in phase with the half-period of the proton's circular path, ensuring it always accelerates the protons across the gap.

**(b)**
Convert kinetic energy to Joules:
\( E_k = 15 \text{ MeV} = 15 \times 10^6 \times 1.60 \times 10^{-19} \text{ J} = 2.40 \times 10^{-12} \text{ J} \).

Using the non-relativistic formula for kinetic energy:
\( E_k = \frac{1}{2} m v^2 \)
\( 2.40 \times 10^{-12} = \frac{1}{2} \times (1.67 \times 10^{-27} \text{ kg}) \times v^2 \)
\( v^2 = \frac{4.80 \times 10^{-12}}{1.67 \times 10^{-27}} = 2.874 \times 10^{15} \)
\( v = 5.36 \times 10^7 \text{ m s}^{-1} \approx 5.4 \times 10^7 \text{ m s}^{-1} \).

**(c)**
The de Broglie wavelength \( \lambda \) is:
\( \lambda = \frac{h}{p} = \frac{h}{m v} \)
\( \lambda = \frac{6.63 \times 10^{-34} \text{ J s}}{1.67 \times 10^{-27} \text{ kg} \times 5.36 \times 10^7 \text{ m s}^{-1}} \)
\( \lambda = \frac{6.63 \times 10^{-34}}{8.95 \times 10^{-20}} = 7.41 \times 10^{-15} \text{ m} \).

For a probing particle to resolve the structure of a target, its de Broglie wavelength must be comparable to or smaller than the size of the structure being investigated (\( \lambda \le 10^{-15} \text{ m} \)). Since the calculated wavelength \( 7.4 \times 10^{-15} \text{ m} \) is larger than the diameter of the proton (\( 10^{-15} \text{ m} \)), these protons are not suitable for resolving details of its internal structure.

PastPaper.markingScheme

**(a)**
- States that the magnetic field causes the circular motion / deflects the path of protons (1)
- States that the electric field in the gap accelerates the protons / increases their speed (1)
- Mentions that the electric field must alternate in direction (1)
- Explains that the frequency of the alternating voltage is constant because the time spent in each dee is independent of speed (1)

**(b)**
- Converts MeV to Joules: \( 15 \times 10^6 \times 1.60 \times 10^{-19} = 2.4 \times 10^{-12} \text{ J} \) (1)
- Uses \( E_k = \frac{1}{2} m v^2 \) (1)
- Obtains speed \( v = 5.36 \times 10^7 \text{ m s}^{-1} \) and concludes \( \approx 5.4 \times 10^7 \text{ m s}^{-1} \) (1)

**(c)**
- Uses de Broglie equation \( \lambda = h / (m v) \) (1)
- Calculates \( \lambda = 7.4 \times 10^{-15} \text{ m} \) (1)
- Explains that to resolve structures, \( \lambda \le \text{structure size} \), and since \( 7.4 \times 10^{-15} \text{ m} > 10^{-15} \text{ m} \), these protons are not suitable (1)
PastPaper.question 7 · Structured
10 PastPaper.marks
A high-energy pion-proton collision can result in the production of a neutral kaon and a lambda baryon:
$$\pi^{-} + p \rightarrow K^{0} + \Lambda^{0}$$

**(a)** Write the quark composition for each of the four particles involved in this reaction. (4 marks)

**(b)** Show that charge, baryon number, and strangeness are conserved in this interaction. (3 marks)

**(c)** The lambda baryon \( \Lambda^{0} \) subsequently decays via the weak interaction:
$$\Lambda^{0} \rightarrow p + \pi^{-}$$
Explain why this decay must occur via the weak interaction, referencing the conservation of strangeness. (3 marks)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

**(a)**
- Pion-minus \( \pi^{-} \) is a meson: \( d\bar{u} \) (charge = \( -1/3 - 2/3 = -1 \)).
- Proton \( p \) is a baryon: \( uud \) (charge = \( 2/3 + 2/3 - 1/3 = +1 \)).
- Neutral Kaon \( K^{0} \) is a meson with strangeness +1: \( d\bar{s} \) (charge = \( -1/3 + 1/3 = 0 \)).
- Lambda baryon \( \Lambda^{0} \) is a baryon with strangeness -1: \( uds \) (charge = \( 2/3 - 1/3 - 1/3 = 0 \)).

**(b)**
- **Charge (Q):**
LHS: \( (-1) + (+1) = 0 \)
RHS: \( 0 + 0 = 0 \)
Since \( 0 = 0 \), charge is conserved.
- **Baryon number (B):**
LHS: \( 0 + 1 = 1 \)
RHS: \( 0 + 1 = 1 \)
Since \( 1 = 1 \), baryon number is conserved.
- **Strangeness (S):**
LHS: \( 0 + 0 = 0 \)
RHS: \( (+1) + (-1) = 0 \)
Since \( 0 = 0 \), strangeness is conserved.

**(c)**
Let us look at the strangeness of the particles in the decay \( \Lambda^{0} \rightarrow p + \pi^{-} \):
- Before decay: \( \Lambda^{0} \) has strangeness \( S = -1 \).
- After decay: Proton \( p \) has strangeness \( S = 0 \) and \( \pi^{-} \) has strangeness \( S = 0 \). Total final strangeness is \( 0 \).

Since \( S \) changes from \( -1 \) to \( 0 \), strangeness is not conserved (\( \Delta S = 1 \)). Only the weak interaction can violate the conservation of strangeness (by changing the flavor of the strange quark \( s \) to an up quark \( u \)). Therefore, this decay must proceed via the weak interaction.

PastPaper.markingScheme

**(a)**
- Identifies \( \pi^{-} \) as \( d\bar{u} \) (1)
- Identifies \( p \) as \( uud \) (1)
- Identifies \( K^{0} \) as \( d\bar{s} \) (1)
- Identifies \( \Lambda^{0} \) as \( uds \) (1)

**(b)**
- Shows conservation of charge (with explicit numbers: \( -1 + 1 = 0 + 0 \)) (1)
- Shows conservation of baryon number (with explicit numbers: \( 0 + 1 = 0 + 1 \)) (1)
- Shows conservation of strangeness (with explicit numbers: \( 0 + 0 = 1 - 1 \)) (1)

**(c)**
- Identifies that strangeness of \( \Lambda^0 \) is \( -1 \) and products have strangeness \( 0 \) (1)
- Concludes that strangeness is not conserved (change of \( +1 \)) (1)
- States that only the weak interaction can change quark flavor and violate strangeness conservation (1)
PastPaper.question 8 · Structured
10 PastPaper.marks
An electron and a positron, each with a kinetic energy of \( 2.0 \text{ MeV} \), collide head-on and annihilate to produce two identical gamma-ray photons.

**(a)** Explain why a single photon cannot be produced in this collision. (2 marks)

**(b)** Calculate the energy of each of the produced photons in MeV and in Joules. (4 marks)

**(c)** Calculate the frequency and wavelength of each of the produced photons. (4 marks)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

**(a)** Momentum must be conserved in the collision. In the center-of-mass frame where the electron and positron collide head-on with equal and opposite velocities, the total initial momentum is zero. A single photon always carries non-zero momentum (\( p = E/c \)), so a single photon cannot be produced without violating conservation of momentum. Two photons can travel in opposite directions with equal and opposite momenta, summing to zero.

**(b)** The total energy of the system is conserved.
For each particle:
Total energy \( E = E_k + m_0 c^2 \).
Rest mass of electron/positron \( m_0 = 9.11 \times 10^{-31} \text{ kg} \).
Rest mass energy in Joules: \( m_0 c^2 = 9.11 \times 10^{-31} \times (3.00 \times 10^8)^2 = 8.199 \times 10^{-14} \text{ J} \).
In MeV: \( \frac{8.199 \times 10^{-14} \text{ J}}{1.60 \times 10^{-13} \text{ J/MeV}} \approx 0.512 \text{ MeV} \).

Total energy of one particle: \( E = 2.0 \text{ MeV} + 0.512 \text{ MeV} = 2.512 \text{ MeV} \).
Since two identical photons are produced from two particles of equal energy, each photon carries the energy of one of the particles:
\( E_{\text{photon}} = 2.512 \text{ MeV} \approx 2.51 \text{ MeV} \).

In Joules:
\( E_{\text{photon}} = 2.512 \times 10^6 \times 1.60 \times 10^{-19} \text{ J} = 4.02 \times 10^{-13} \text{ J} \).

**(c)**
Frequency of each photon:
\( E = h f \implies f = \frac{E}{h} = \frac{4.02 \times 10^{-13} \text{ J}}{6.63 \times 10^{-34} \text{ J s}} = 6.06 \times 10^{20} \text{ Hz} \).

Wavelength of each photon:
\( \lambda = \frac{c}{f} = \frac{3.00 \times 10^8 \text{ m s}^{-1}}{6.06 \times 10^{20} \text{ Hz}} = 4.95 \times 10^{-13} \text{ m} \).
(Or using \( \lambda = \frac{hc}{E} \))

PastPaper.markingScheme

**(a)**
- Mentions that momentum must be conserved (1)
- Explains that the initial momentum of a head-on collision is zero, whereas a single photon must have momentum, so at least two photons moving in opposite directions are required (1)

**(b)**
- Identifies that total energy includes kinetic energy and rest energy (1)
- Calculates rest mass energy of an electron/positron as \( 0.51 \text{ MeV} \) (or \( 8.2 \times 10^{-14} \text{ J} \)) (1)
- Calculates energy of one photon as \( 2.51 \text{ MeV} \) (1)
- Converts energy to Joules: \( 4.02 \times 10^{-13} \text{ J} \) (allow \( 4.0 \times 10^{-13} \text{ J} \)) (1)

**(c)**
- Uses \( E = h f \) to calculate frequency (1)
- Obtains \( f = 6.1 \times 10^{20} \text{ Hz} \) (or \( 6.06 \times 10^{20} \text{ Hz} \)) (1)
- Uses \( c = f \lambda \) or \( \lambda = h c / E \) to find wavelength (1)
- Obtains \( \lambda = 4.95 \times 10^{-13} \text{ m} \) (allow \( 5.0 \times 10^{-13} \text{ m} \)) (1)

Unit 5 Section A

Answer all ten multiple choice questions covering thermodynamics, radiation, oscillations, and cosmology.
10 PastPaper.question · 10 PastPaper.marks
PastPaper.question 1 · multiple-choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A container holds a mixture of helium gas (molar mass \(4\text{ g mol}^{-1}\)) and argon gas (molar mass \(40\text{ g mol}^{-1}\)) in thermal equilibrium at a temperature \(T\). What is the ratio of the mean square speed of the helium atoms to that of the argon atoms, \(\frac{\langle c_{\text{He}}^2 \rangle}{\langle c_{\text{Ar}}^2 \rangle}\)?
  1. A.0.1
  2. B.1.0
  3. C.3.2
  4. D.10
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The mean kinetic energy of a gas molecule is given by \(\frac{3}{2} k T\). Since the helium and argon gases are in thermal equilibrium in the same container, they are at the same temperature \(T\). Therefore, their mean kinetic energies are equal: \(\frac{1}{2} m_{\text{He}} \langle c_{\text{He}}^2 \rangle = \frac{1}{2} m_{\text{Ar}} \langle c_{\text{Ar}}^2 \rangle\). This can be rearranged to find the ratio of their mean square speeds: \(\frac{\langle c_{\text{He}}^2 \rangle}{\langle c_{\text{Ar}}^2 \rangle} = \frac{m_{\text{Ar}}}{m_{\text{He}}\). Substituting the molar masses (which are proportional to the molecular masses): \(\frac{\langle c_{\text{He}}^2 \rangle}{\langle c_{\text{Ar}}^2 \rangle} = \frac{40\text{ g mol}^{-1}}{4\text{ g mol}^{-1}} = 10\). Hence, the correct option is D.

PastPaper.markingScheme

D (1 mark)
PastPaper.question 2 · multiple-choice
1 PastPaper.marks
An electrical heater of constant power \(P\) is used to heat a mass \(m\) of a liquid in a well-insulated calorimeter. A graph of the temperature \(\theta\) of the liquid against time \(t\) is plotted, and the gradient of the graph is found to be \(G\). What is the specific heat capacity \(c\) of the liquid?
  1. A.\(\frac{P}{mG}\)
  2. B.\(\frac{mG}{P}\)
  3. C.\(\frac{PG}{m}\)
  4. D.\(\frac{m}{PG}\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The thermal energy transferred to the liquid by the heater in a time interval \(\Delta t\) is given by: \(\Delta E = P \Delta t\). Assuming there are no heat losses to the surroundings, this thermal energy increases the temperature of the liquid according to: \(\Delta E = m c \Delta \theta\). Equating these two expressions gives: \(P \Delta t = m c \Delta \theta\). Rearranging to express the rate of temperature increase (the gradient of the temperature-time graph, \(G\)): \(G = \frac{\Delta \theta}{\Delta t} = \frac{P}{m c}\). Solving for the specific heat capacity \(c\): \(c = \frac{P}{mG}\). Hence, the correct option is A.

PastPaper.markingScheme

A (1 mark)
PastPaper.question 3 · multiple-choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A sample contains two radioactive isotopes, X and Y. Initially, there are \(N_0\) nuclei of X and \(N_0\) nuclei of Y. The half-life of X is \(T\) and the half-life of Y is \(2T\). What is the ratio of the number of nuclei of X to the number of nuclei of Y remaining after a time \(4T\)?
  1. A.0.25
  2. B.0.50
  3. C.2.0
  4. D.4.0
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

For isotope X, the number of half-lives that have elapsed in time \(4T\) is: \(n_{\text{X}} = \frac{4T}{T} = 4\). The number of remaining nuclei of X is: \(N_{\text{X}} = N_0 \left(\frac{1}{2}\right)^4 = \frac{N_0}{16}\). For isotope Y, the number of half-lives that have elapsed in time \(4T\) is: \(n_{\text{Y}} = \frac{4T}{2T} = 2\). The number of remaining nuclei of Y is: \(N_{\text{Y}} = N_0 \left(\frac{1}{2}\right)^2 = \frac{N_0}{4}\). The ratio of the number of remaining nuclei of X to Y is: \(\frac{N_{\text{X}}}{N_{\text{Y}}} = \frac{N_0 / 16}{N_0 / 4} = \frac{4}{16} = 0.25\). Hence, the correct option is A.

PastPaper.markingScheme

A (1 mark)
PastPaper.question 4 · multiple-choice
1 PastPaper.marks
An object undergoes simple harmonic motion with amplitude \(A\) and time period \(T\). The object starts from its equilibrium position at time \(t = 0\). What is the shortest time taken for the object to reach a displacement of \(\frac{A}{2}\)?
  1. A.\(\frac{T}{12}\)
  2. B.\(\frac{T}{8}\)
  3. C.\(\frac{T}{6}\)
  4. D.\(\frac{T}{4}\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The displacement of an object starting from the equilibrium position at \(t = 0\) is given by the equation: \(x = A \sin(\omega t)\), where the angular frequency is \(\omega = \frac{2\pi}{T}\). To find the time taken to reach a displacement of \(\frac{A}{2}\), we substitute this into the displacement equation: \(\frac{A}{2} = A \sin(\omega t) \implies \sin(\omega t) = \frac{1}{2}\). The smallest positive solution for this equation is: \(\omega t = \frac{\pi}{6}\). Substitute \(\omega = \frac{2\pi}{T}\) into this relation: \(\frac{2\pi}{T} t = \frac{\pi}{6} \implies t = \frac{T}{12}\). Hence, the correct option is A.

PastPaper.markingScheme

A (1 mark)
PastPaper.question 5 · multiple-choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A student drives a mass-spring system with an external vibrator of variable frequency \(f\) to observe resonance. The experiment is repeated with three different levels of damping: light, medium, and heavy. Which of the following correctly describes the effect on the resonance curve as the level of damping is increased?
  1. A.The resonance peak becomes narrower and shifts to a higher frequency.
  2. B.The resonance peak becomes broader and shifts to a lower frequency.
  3. C.The resonance peak becomes narrower and shifts to a lower frequency.
  4. D.The resonance peak becomes broader and shifts to a higher frequency.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

Damping dissipates energy from the oscillating system. As the degree of damping is increased: 1. The maximum amplitude of the oscillations decreases, resulting in a broader and flatter resonance peak. 2. The frequency at which this maximum amplitude occurs (the resonant frequency) shifts slightly to a lower frequency. Therefore, the resonance peak becomes broader and shifts to a lower frequency. Hence, the correct option is B.

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B (1 mark)
PastPaper.question 6 · multiple-choice
1 PastPaper.marks
Star P and Star Q are modeled as blackbody radiators. Star P has a surface temperature of \(T\) and a radius of \(R\). Star Q has a surface temperature of \(2T\) and a radius of \(3R\). What is the ratio of the luminosity of Star P to the luminosity of Star Q, \(\frac{L_{\text{P}}}{L_{\text{Q}}}\)?
  1. A.\(\frac{1}{144}\)
  2. B.\(\frac{1}{48}\)
  3. C.\(\frac{1}{36}\)
  4. D.\(\frac{1}{12}\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

According to Stefan-Boltzmann's law, the luminosity of a star is given by: \(L = 4\pi R^2 \sigma T^4\). This means that the luminosity \(L\) is proportional to the square of its radius \(R\) and the fourth power of its surface temperature \(T\): \(L \propto R^2 T^4\). For Star P: \(L_{\text{P}} \propto R^2 T^4\). For Star Q: \(L_{\text{Q}} \propto (3R)^2 (2T)^4 = 9R^2 \times 16T^4 = 144 R^2 T^4\). Thus, the ratio of the luminosities is: \(\frac{L_{\text{P}}}{L_{\text{Q}}} = \frac{R^2 T^4}{144 R^2 T^4} = \frac{1}{144}\). Hence, the correct option is A.

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A (1 mark)
PastPaper.question 7 · multiple-choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A star has a measured trigonometric parallax of \(0.025 \text{ arcseconds}\) when observed from Earth. What is the distance to this star in light-years? (Given: \(1\text{ parsec} = 3.26\text{ light-years}\))
  1. A.0.082 light-years
  2. B.12 light-years
  3. C.40 light-years
  4. D.130 light-years
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The distance \(d\) to a star in parsecs (pc) is inversely proportional to its parallax \(p\) in arcseconds: \(d = \frac{1}{p}\). Using the given value: \(d = \frac{1}{0.025} = 40\text{ pc}\). To find the distance in light-years, we multiply the distance in parsecs by the conversion factor \(3.26\text{ light-years per parsec}\): \(d = 40\text{ pc} \times 3.26\text{ light-years pc}^{-1} = 130.4\text{ light-years}\). This is approximately \(130\text{ light-years}\), which corresponds to option D.

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D (1 mark)
PastPaper.question 8 · multiple-choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A distant galaxy has a measured redshift \(z = 0.040\). What is the recession velocity of this galaxy? (Take the speed of light \(c = 3.0 \times 10^8\text{ m s}^{-1}\))
  1. A.\(1.2 \times 10^5\text{ m s}^{-1}\)
  2. B.\(1.2 \times 10^6\text{ m s}^{-1}\)
  3. C.\(1.2 \times 10^7\text{ m s}^{-1}\)
  4. D.\(1.2 \times 10^8\text{ m s}^{-1}\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

Redshift \(z\) for a galaxy moving away at non-relativistic speeds is given by the formula: \(z = \frac{v}{c}\), where \(v\) is the recession velocity and \(c\) is the speed of light. Rearranging the equation to solve for the recession velocity \(v\): \(v = z c\). Substitute the given values into the equation: \(v = 0.040 \times 3.0 \times 10^8\text{ m s}^{-1} = 1.2 \times 10^7\text{ m s}^{-1}\). Hence, the correct option is C.

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C (1 mark)
PastPaper.question 9 · MCQ
1 PastPaper.marks
A mass-spring system undergoes simple harmonic motion with amplitude \(A\). At a displacement \(x = \frac{1}{3}A\) from the equilibrium position, what is the ratio of the kinetic energy of the mass to its total energy?
  1. A.\(\frac{1}{9}\)
  2. B.\(\frac{2}{3}\)
  3. C.\(\frac{8}{9}\)
  4. D.\(\frac{\sqrt{8}}{3}\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The total energy of a simple harmonic oscillator is given by \(E_{\text{total}} = \frac{1}{2} k A^2\), where \(k\) is the force constant of the spring and \(A\) is the amplitude.

The potential energy of the oscillator at a displacement \(x\) is given by \(E_{\text{p}} = \frac{1}{2} k x^2\).

Substituting \(x = \frac{1}{3}A\) into the potential energy equation yields:
\(E_{\text{p}} = \frac{1}{2} k \left(\frac{1}{3}A\right)^2 = \frac{1}{9} \left(\frac{1}{2} k A^2\right) = \frac{1}{9} E_{\text{total}}\)

The kinetic energy \(E_{\text{k}}\) is the difference between the total energy and the potential energy:
\(E_{\text{k}} = E_{\text{total}} - E_{\text{p}} = E_{\text{total}} - \frac{1}{9} E_{\text{total}} = \frac{8}{9} E_{\text{total}}\)

Therefore, the ratio of the kinetic energy to the total energy is \(\frac{E_{\text{k}}}{E_{\text{total}}} = \frac{8}{9}\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

C is the correct answer.
- 1 mark: Correctly determines that potential energy is \(\frac{1}{9}\) of the total energy, and subtracts this from 1 to obtain the kinetic energy fraction of \(\frac{8}{9}\).
PastPaper.question 10 · MCQ
1 PastPaper.marks
A fixed mass of an ideal gas undergoes a process during which its volume is tripled and its pressure is halved. What is the ratio of the final root-mean-square (r.m.s.) speed of the gas molecules to their initial r.m.s. speed?
  1. A.\(\sqrt{\frac{2}{3}}\)
  2. B.\(\frac{3}{2}\)
  3. C.\(\sqrt{\frac{3}{2}}\)
  4. D.\(\frac{9}{4}\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

According to the ideal gas equation, \(pV = NkT\), which means the absolute temperature \(T\) is proportional to the product of pressure and volume:
\(T \propto pV\)

If the pressure is halved (\(p_{\text{final}} = 0.5 p_{\text{initial}}\)) and the volume is tripled (\(V_{\text{final}} = 3 V_{\text{initial}}\)), the new temperature \(T_{\text{final}}\) is:
\(T_{\text{final}} \propto (0.5 p_{\text{initial}}) \times (3 V_{\text{initial}}) = 1.5 p_{\text{initial}} V_{\text{initial}}\)

Thus, the absolute temperature increases by a factor of \(1.5\), so \(T_{\text{final}} = 1.5 T_{\text{initial}} = \frac{3}{2} T_{\text{initial}}\).

The root-mean-square (r.m.s.) speed of the gas molecules is related to absolute temperature by:
\(v_{\text{rms}} = \sqrt{\frac{3kT}{m}} \propto \sqrt{T}\)

Therefore, the ratio of the final r.m.s. speed to the initial r.m.s. speed is:
\(\frac{v_{\text{rms, final}}}{v_{\text{rms, initial}}} = \sqrt{\frac{T_{\text{final}}}{T_{\text{initial}}}} = \sqrt{\frac{3}{2}}\)

PastPaper.markingScheme

C is the correct answer.
- 1 mark: Correctly links temperature change to the product of pressure and volume, finding that temperature increases by a factor of \(1.5\), and applies the proportional relationship \(v_{\text{rms}} \propto \sqrt{T}\) to find the ratio is \(\sqrt{\frac{3}{2}}\).

Unit 5 Section B

Answer all structured calculations, explanations, and stellar analysis questions.
11 PastPaper.question · 79.15999999999998 PastPaper.marks
PastPaper.question 1 · structured
7.27 PastPaper.marks
A container holds \(0.15\text{ kg}\) of ice at \(-10^\circ\text{C}\). An electrical heater of power \(80\text{ W}\) is placed in the container to melt the ice.
(a) Define specific latent heat of fusion.
(b) Calculate the total time taken for all the ice to turn into water at \(0^\circ\text{C}\). Assume no heat losses to the surroundings.
Specific heat capacity of ice, \(c_{\text{ice}} = 2100\text{ J kg}^{-1}\text{ K}^{-1}\).
Specific latent heat of fusion of ice, \(L_f = 3.3 \times 10^5\text{ J kg}^{-1}\).
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

To find the total energy required to melt the ice, we must calculate two separate stages:
1. Heating the ice from \(-10^\circ\text{C}\) to \(0^\circ\text{C}\):
\(Q_1 = m c_{\text{ice}} \Delta \theta = 0.15\text{ kg} \times 2100\text{ J kg}^{-1}\text{ K}^{-1} \times (0 - (-10))\text{ K} = 3150\text{ J}\).
2. Melting the ice at \(0^\circ\text{C}\):
\(Q_2 = m L_f = 0.15\text{ kg} \times 3.3 \times 10^5\text{ J kg}^{-1} = 49500\text{ J}\).

Total thermal energy required:
\(Q_{\text{total}} = Q_1 + Q_2 = 3150\text{ J} + 49500\text{ J} = 52650\text{ J}\).

Using the relationship between power, energy, and time:
\(t = \frac{Q_{\text{total}}}{P} = \frac{52650\text{ J}}{80\text{ W}} = 658.125\text{ s}\).
Rounding to 3 significant figures gives \(658\text{ s}\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

(a) Specific latent heat of fusion is defined as the energy per unit mass required to change a substance from solid to liquid phase at a constant temperature. (2 marks)
(b)
- Use of \(Q = m c \Delta \theta\) to calculate heating energy: \(Q_1 = 3150\text{ J}\). (1 mark)
- Use of \(Q = m L\) to calculate phase change energy: \(Q_2 = 49500\text{ J}\). (1 mark)
- Addition of both energies to find total energy: \(Q_{\text{total}} = 52650\text{ J}\). (1 mark)
- Use of \(P = \frac{E}{t}\) to calculate time: \(t = \frac{52650}{80}\). (1 mark)
- Correct final answer with units: \(658\text{ s}\) (accept \(660\text{ s}\) for 2 s.f.). (1 mark)
PastPaper.question 2 · structured
7.27 PastPaper.marks
A rigid cylinder of volume \(0.045\text{ m}^3\) contains helium gas (molar mass \(= 4.00 \times 10^{-3}\text{ kg mol}^{-1}\)) at a pressure of \(1.20 \times 10^5\text{ Pa}\) and temperature of \(27^\circ\text{C}\).
(a) Show that the number of helium atoms in the cylinder is approximately \(1.3 \times 10^{24}\).
(b) Calculate the root-mean-square (r.m.s.) speed of the helium atoms.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) Convert temperature to Kelvin:
\(T = 27 + 273.15 = 300.15\text{ K}\) (or \(300\text{ K}\)).
Using the ideal gas equation:
\(pV = N k T \Rightarrow N = \frac{pV}{kT}\)
\(N = \frac{1.20 \times 10^5\text{ Pa} \times 0.045\text{ m}^3}{1.38 \times 10^{-23}\text{ J K}^{-1} \times 300\text{ K}} = \frac{5400}{4.14 \times 10^{-21}} \approx 1.30 \times 10^{24}\text{ atoms}\).

(b) The average kinetic energy of gas molecules is:
\(\frac{1}{2} m \langle c^2 \rangle = \frac{3}{2} k T \Rightarrow v_{\text{rms}} = \sqrt{\frac{3 k T}{m}}\).
Mass of one helium atom, \(m = \frac{\text{molar mass}}{N_A} = \frac{4.00 \times 10^{-3}\text{ kg mol}^{-1}}{6.02 \times 10^{23}\text{ mol}^{-1}} = 6.64 \times 10^{-27}\text{ kg}\).
Therefore:
\(v_{\text{rms}} = \sqrt{\frac{3 \times 1.38 \times 10^{-23}\text{ J K}^{-1} \times 300\text{ K}}{6.64 \times 10^{-27}\text{ kg}}} = \sqrt{1.871 \times 10^6} \approx 1368\text{ m s}^{-1}\).
Using 3 significant figures, \(v_{\text{rms}} = 1370\text{ m s}^{-1}\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

(a)
- Convert temperature to Kelvin: \(300\text{ K}\). (1 mark)
- Correct rearrangement of \(pV = NkT\) to make \(N\) the subject. (1 mark)
- Correct calculation leading to \(1.3 \times 10^{24}\). (1 mark)

(b)
- Calculate the mass of a single helium atom: \(6.64 \times 10^{-27}\text{ kg}\). (1 mark)
- Recall and substitute into the equation \(\frac{1}{2} m \langle c^2 \rangle = \frac{3}{2} k T\) or \(v_{\text{rms}} = \sqrt{\frac{3 k T}{m}}\). (2 marks)
- Correct final calculation of \(1370\text{ m s}^{-1}\) (allow range \(1360 - 1380\text{ m s}^{-1}\)). (1 mark)
PastPaper.question 3 · structured
7.27 PastPaper.marks
A sample of igneous rock contains uranium-238 (\(^{238}_{92}\text{U}\)) which decays into lead-206 (\(^{206}_{82}\text{Pb}\)) through a series of alpha and beta decays. The half-life of \(^{238}\text{U}\) is \(4.47 \times 10^9\text{ years}\).
A sample of this rock is found to contain \(1.50\text{ mg}\) of \(^{238}\text{U}\) and \(0.45\text{ mg}\) of \(^{206}\text{Pb}\).
(a) State why we can assume all the lead-206 came from the decay of uranium-238.
(b) Calculate the age of the rock. Assume there was no lead-206 in the rock when it formed.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) Lead-206 is stable, and standard geological models assume no lead was trapped in the molten magma at the time the rock solidified, meaning all current lead must have originated from the parent uranium isotope.

(b) To find the age of the rock, we calculate the initial amount of uranium-238.
Number of moles of U-238 remaining:
\(n_{\text{U}} = \frac{1.50 \times 10^{-3}\text{ g}}{238\text{ g mol}^{-1}} = 6.303 \times 10^{-6}\text{ mol}\).

Number of moles of Pb-206 formed:
\(n_{\text{Pb}} = \frac{0.45 \times 10^{-3}\text{ g}}{206\text{ g mol}^{-1}} = 2.184 \times 10^{-6}\text{ mol}\).

Since one U-238 atom decays to form one Pb-206 atom, the initial moles of U-238 was:
\(n_{\text{initial}} = n_{\text{U}} + n_{\text{Pb}} = 6.303 \times 10^{-6} + 2.184 \times 10^{-6} = 8.487 \times 10^{-6}\text{ mol}\).

Using the decay equation:
\(N = N_0 e^{-\lambda t} \Rightarrow \frac{N}{N_0} = \frac{n_{\text{U}}}{n_{\text{initial}}} = \frac{6.303 \times 10^{-6}}{8.487 \times 10^{-6}} = 0.7427\).

The decay constant \(\lambda\) is:
\(\lambda = \frac{\ln 2}{T_{1/2}} = \frac{\ln 2}{4.47 \times 10^9\text{ years}} = 1.551 \times 10^{-10}\text{ year}^{-1}\).

Solving for \(t\):
\(\ln(0.7427) = -\lambda t \Rightarrow -0.2975 = - (1.551 \times 10^{-10}) t\)
\(t = \frac{0.2975}{1.551 \times 10^{-10}} \approx 1.918 \times 10^9\text{ years}\).
This is approximately \(1.92 \times 10^9\text{ years}\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

(a)
- Lead has a lower melting point / is excluded during solidification, or rock is assumed to have no initial Pb-206. (1 mark)

(b)
- Convert mass of both U-238 and Pb-206 to moles: \(n_{\text{U}} = 6.30 \times 10^{-6}\text{ mol}\) and \(n_{\text{Pb}} = 2.18 \times 10^{-6}\text{ mol}\). (1 mark)
- Calculate the initial number of moles of U-238: \(n_{\text{initial}} = 8.49 \times 10^{-6}\text{ mol}\). (1 mark)
- Use \(\frac{N}{N_0}\) ratio: \(0.743\). (1 mark)
- Use \(\lambda = \frac{\ln 2}{T_{1/2}}\) to find decay constant: \(1.55 \times 10^{-10}\text{ yr}^{-1}\). (1 mark)
- Correctly apply decay equation \(N = N_0 e^{-\lambda t}\). (1 mark)
- Final answer: \(1.92 \times 10^9\text{ years}\) (accept range \(1.90 \times 10^9\text{ yr} - 1.95 \times 10^9\text{ yr}\)). (1 mark)
PastPaper.question 4 · structured
7.27 PastPaper.marks
Consider the induced fission of uranium-235:
\(^{235}_{92}\text{U} + ^1_0\text{n} \rightarrow ^{141}_{56}\text{Ba} + ^{92}_{36}\text{Kr} + 3\ ^1_0\text{n}\)
The binding energy per nucleon of the nuclides involved is:
- \(^{235}_{92}\text{U}\): \(7.59\text{ MeV/nucleon}\)
- \(^{141}_{56}\text{Ba}\): \(8.33\text{ MeV/nucleon}\)
- \(^{92}_{36}\text{Kr}\): \(8.51\text{ MeV/nucleon}\)
(a) Explain what is meant by the binding energy of a nucleus.
(b) Calculate the total energy released in this fission reaction, in MeV.
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PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) Binding energy is the minimum work/energy required to completely separate a nucleus into its constituent individual protons and neutrons (nucleons).

(b) Total energy released is calculated from the difference in the total binding energy of the products and the reactants.

Total binding energy of reactants (only \(^{235}\text{U}\) as neutron has zero binding energy):
\(E_{\text{reactants}} = 235 \times 7.59\text{ MeV} = 1783.65\text{ MeV}\).

Total binding energy of products:
\(E_{\text{products}} = (141 \times 8.33\text{ MeV}) + (92 \times 8.51\text{ MeV}) = 1174.53\text{ MeV} + 782.92\text{ MeV} = 1957.45\text{ MeV}\).

Energy released:
\(\Delta E = E_{\text{products}} - E_{\text{reactants}} = 1957.45\text{ MeV} - 1783.65\text{ MeV} = 173.8\text{ MeV}\).
Rounding to 3 significant figures gives \(174\text{ MeV}\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

(a)
- Energy required to separate a nucleus into its constituent nucleons (or energy released when nucleons form a nucleus). (1 mark)
- Must mention 'constituent nucleons' or 'individual protons and neutrons' to secure second mark. (1 mark)

(b)
- Calculate total binding energy of U-235: \(1783.65\text{ MeV}\). (1 mark)
- Calculate total binding energy of Ba-141: \(1174.53\text{ MeV}\). (1 mark)
- Calculate total binding energy of Kr-92: \(782.92\text{ MeV}\). (1 mark)
- Sum the binding energies of the products: \(1957.45\text{ MeV}\). (1 mark)
- Calculate the difference to find energy released: \(174\text{ MeV}\) (accept \(173.8\text{ MeV}\)). (1 mark)
PastPaper.question 5 · structured
7.27 PastPaper.marks
A horizontal mass-spring system consists of a \(0.35\text{ kg}\) glider attached to a spring with spring constant \(k = 25\text{ N m}^{-1}\). The glider oscillates with simple harmonic motion on a frictionless track. The glider is pulled \(0.080\text{ m}\) from its equilibrium position and released from rest.
(a) Show that the maximum acceleration of the glider is approximately \(5.7\text{ m s}^{-2}\).
(b) Calculate the speed of the glider when it is at a displacement of \(0.040\text{ m}\) from the equilibrium position.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) The angular frequency \(\omega\) is given by:

\(\omega = \sqrt{\frac{k}{m}} = \sqrt{\frac{25\text{ N m}^{-1}}{0.35\text{ kg}}} \approx 8.452\text{ rad s}^{-1}\).

The maximum acceleration \(a_{\text{max}}\) is:
\(a_{\text{max}} = \omega^2 A\) where \(A = 0.080\text{ m}\).
\(a_{\text{max}} = 71.43\text{ s}^{-2} \times 0.080\text{ m} \approx 5.71\text{ m s}^{-2}\), which is approximately \(5.7\text{ m s}^{-2}\).

(b) The velocity \(v\) of an oscillator at displacement \(x\) is given by:
\(v = \pm \omega \sqrt{A^2 - x^2}\)
\(v = 8.452 \times \sqrt{0.080^2 - 0.040^2} = 8.452 \times \sqrt{0.0064 - 0.0016} = 8.452 \times \sqrt{0.0048}\)
\(v = 8.452 \times 0.06928 \approx 0.586\text{ m s}^{-1}\).
Rounding to 2 significant figures gives \(0.59\text{ m s}^{-1}\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

(a)
- Use of \(\omega^2 = \frac{k}{m}\) or \(\omega = \sqrt{\frac{k}{m}}\). (1 mark)
- Recall of \(a = -\omega^2 x\) to identify \(a_{\text{max}} = \omega^2 A\). (1 mark)
- Calculate \(a_{\text{max}} = 5.71\text{ m s}^{-2}\) clearly showing substitution. (1 mark)

(b)
- Recall and substitute into \(v = \pm \omega \sqrt{A^2 - x^2}\). (2 marks)
- Correct substitution of values: \(v = 8.45 \times \sqrt{0.080^2 - 0.040^2}\). (1 mark)
- Final speed: \(0.59\text{ m s}^{-1}\) (or \(0.586\text{ m s}^{-1}\)). (1 mark)
PastPaper.question 6 · structured
7.27 PastPaper.marks
A heavy bridge section can be modeled as an oscillating system. Explain the physical distinction between free, forced, and resonant oscillations, and explain how the introduction of a heavy damping mechanism (such as shock absorbers) affects the resonance curve (amplitude against driving frequency) of the bridge.
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PastPaper.workedSolution

Free oscillations occur when a system is displaced from its equilibrium position and allowed to oscillate at its natural frequency without any periodic external force acting on it.
Forced oscillations occur when a periodic external driving force acts on a system, forcing it to oscillate at the frequency of the driving force rather than its natural frequency.
Resonance occurs when the driving frequency is equal to (or very close to) the natural frequency of the oscillating system, resulting in a maximum transfer of energy from the driver to the oscillator, causing a large peak in amplitude.
When a heavy damping mechanism is introduced:
1. The peak amplitude of the resonance curve is greatly reduced.
2. The resonance curve becomes broader and flatter, meaning the system responds significantly over a wider range of frequencies.
3. The resonant frequency (the frequency at which peak amplitude occurs) shifts slightly to a lower frequency.

PastPaper.markingScheme

- Free oscillations: oscillation at natural frequency / without external periodic force. (1 mark)
- Forced oscillations: system is driven by an external periodic force at the driver's frequency. (1 mark)
- Resonance: occurs when driving frequency matches natural frequency, leading to maximum energy transfer / maximum amplitude. (1 mark)
- Damping definition: resistive forces that dissipate mechanical energy of the system as thermal energy. (1 mark)
- Effect on peak amplitude: Peak amplitude is lower/reduced. (1 mark)
- Effect on width: Peak of the curve is broader/flatter. (1 mark)
- Effect on peak frequency: Resonant frequency shifts slightly to a lower frequency. (1 mark)
PastPaper.question 7 · structured
7.27 PastPaper.marks
Rigel is a blue supergiant star in the constellation Orion. Its surface temperature is estimated to be \(12100\text{ K}\) and its luminosity is \(1.20 \times 10^5\) times that of the Sun.
(The Sun's luminosity \(L_{\odot} = 3.85 \times 10^{26}\text{ W}\)).
(a) Calculate the wavelength at which Rigel emits its peak intensity of radiation.
(b) Calculate the radius of Rigel.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) According to Wien's displacement law:
\(\lambda_{\text{max}} T = 2.898 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m K}\).
\(\lambda_{\text{max}} = \frac{2.898 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m K}}{12100\text{ K}} = 2.395 \times 10^{-7}\text{ m}\) (or \(240\text{ nm}\)).

(b) Luminosity of Rigel is:
\(L = 1.20 \times 10^5 \times 3.85 \times 10^{26}\text{ W} = 4.62 \times 10^{31}\text{ W}\).

According to Stefan-Boltzmann law:
\(L = 4 \pi r^2 \sigma T^4\) where \(\sigma = 5.67 \times 10^{-8}\text{ W m}^{-2}\text{ K}^{-4}\).

Rearranging for radius \(r\):
\(r = \sqrt{\frac{L}{4 \pi \sigma T^4}}\)
\(r = \sqrt{\frac{4.62 \times 10^{31}}{4 \pi \times (5.67 \times 10^{-8}) \times 12100^4}}\)
\(r = \sqrt{\frac{4.62 \times 10^{31}}{7.125 \times 10^{-7} \times 2.1436 \times 10^{16}}} = \sqrt{\frac{4.62 \times 10^{31}}{1.5273 \times 10^{10}}} = \sqrt{3.025 \times 10^{21}}\)
\(r \approx 5.50 \times 10^{10}\text{ m}\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

(a)
- Use of Wien's displacement law \(\lambda_{\text{max}} T = 2.898 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m K}\). (1 mark)
- Correct calculation: \(2.40 \times 10^{-7}\text{ m}\) (accept \(2.39 - 2.40 \times 10^{-7}\text{ m}\)). (1 mark)

(b)
- Calculate luminosity of Rigel: \(4.62 \times 10^{31}\text{ W}\). (1 mark)
- Recall Stefan-Boltzmann law \(L = 4 \pi r^2 \sigma T^4\). (1 mark)
- Correct rearrangement of equation for \(r\). (1 mark)
- Substitution of correct numerical values including \(T^4\). (1 mark)
- Correct final answer with unit: \(5.50 \times 10^{10}\text{ m}\) (accept range \(5.45 \times 10^{10}\text{ m} - 5.55 \times 10^{10}\text{ m}\)). (1 mark)
PastPaper.question 8 · structured
7.27 PastPaper.marks
A distant galaxy contains a supernova. The wavelength of a particular hydrogen spectral line, measured as \(656.3\text{ nm}\) in the laboratory, is measured as \(672.1\text{ nm}\) in the light received from this galaxy.
(a) State what this observation indicates about the motion of the galaxy relative to the Earth.
(b) Calculate the distance to this galaxy from Earth.
(Hubble constant, \(H_0 = 70\text{ km s}^{-1}\text{ Mpc}^{-1}\) or \(2.27 \times 10^{-18}\text{ s}^{-1}\); Speed of light, \(c = 3.00 \times 10^8\text{ m s}^{-1}\)).
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) The wavelength has increased (redshifted), indicating that the galaxy is moving away from the Earth (receding).

(b) Calculate change in wavelength:
\(\Delta \lambda = 672.1\text{ nm} - 656.3\text{ nm} = 15.8\text{ nm}\).

Using the Doppler equation:
\(z = \frac{\Delta \lambda}{\lambda} = \frac{v}{c}\)
\(v = c \times \frac{\Delta \lambda}{\lambda} = 3.00 \times 10^8\text{ m s}^{-1} \times \frac{15.8\text{ nm}}{656.3\text{ nm}} = 7.222 \times 10^6\text{ m s}^{-1}\) (or \(7222\text{ km s}^{-1}\)).

Using Hubble's Law:
\(v = H_0 d \Rightarrow d = \frac{v}{H_0}\).

Using \(H_0 = 70\text{ km s}^{-1}\text{ Mpc}^{-1}\):
\(d = \frac{7222\text{ km s}^{-1}}{70\text{ km s}^{-1}\text{ Mpc}^{-1}} \approx 103\text{ Mpc}\).

Alternatively, using SI units:
\(d = \frac{7.222 \times 10^6\text{ m s}^{-1}}{2.27 \times 10^{-18}\text{ s}^{-1}} \approx 3.18 \times 10^{24}\text{ m}\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

(a)
- Galaxy is moving away / receding from Earth because the light is redshifted. (1 mark)

(b)
- Calculate the change in wavelength: \(\Delta \lambda = 15.8\text{ nm}\). (1 mark)
- Use \(z = \frac{\Delta \lambda}{\lambda}\) to find redshift \(z = 0.02407\). (1 mark)
- Use \(v = z c\) to calculate velocity: \(7.22 \times 10^6\text{ m s}^{-1}\) (or \(7220\text{ km s}^{-1}\)). (1 mark)
- Use Hubble's law \(v = H_0 d\). (1 mark)
- Substitution of correct values to find distance. (1 mark)
- Correct final answer with unit: \(103\text{ Mpc}\) (allow \(100 - 105\text{ Mpc}\)) or \(3.18 \times 10^{24}\text{ m}\) (allow \(3.15 - 3.25 \times 10^{24}\text{ m}\)). (1 mark)
PastPaper.question 9 · structured
7 PastPaper.marks
A scientist analyses an ancient wooden artifact. A modern sample of living wood of the same mass and type has a Carbon-14 activity of \(15.3\text{ Bq}\). The ancient wooden artifact has a Carbon-14 activity of \(6.2\text{ Bq}\). The half-life of Carbon-14 is \(5730\text{ years}\). Take \(1\text{ year} = 3.16 \times 10^7\text{ s}\). (a) Calculate the decay constant of Carbon-14 in \(s^{-1}\). (b) Calculate the age of the ancient artifact in years.
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PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) Convert half-life to seconds: \(T_{1/2} = 5730 \times 3.16 \times 10^7\text{ s} = 1.81 \times 10^{11}\text{ s}\). Use the decay constant equation: \(\lambda = \frac{\ln 2}{T_{1/2}} = \frac{0.693}{1.81 \times 10^{11}\text{ s}} = 3.83 \times 10^{-12}\text{ s}^{-1}\). (b) Use the radioactive decay law: \(A = A_0 e^{-\lambda t}\). Rearranging gives \(\ln\left(\frac{A}{A_0}\right) = -\lambda_{year} t\). Find the decay constant in year^{-1}: \(\lambda_{year} = \frac{\ln 2}{5730\text{ years}} = 1.21 \times 10^{-4}\text{ year}^{-1}\). Substitute values: \(\ln\left(\frac{6.2}{15.3}\right) = - (1.21 \times 10^{-4}\text{ year}^{-1}) t\), so \(-0.903 = - (1.21 \times 10^{-4}) t\), which gives \(t \approx 7460\text{ years}\). Allow rounding to \(7500\text{ years}\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a): MP1: Correct conversion of half-life to seconds (1.81 * 10^11 s). (1 mark) MP2: Uses lambda = ln(2) / T_1/2. (1 mark) MP3: Correct calculation of decay constant in range 3.81 * 10^-12 to 3.84 * 10^-12 s^-1. (1 mark) Part (b): MP4: Uses A = A_0 e^(-lambda * t) or equivalent logarithmic form. (1 mark) MP5: Calculates lambda in year^-1 (1.21 * 10^-4 year^-1) OR calculates decay time in seconds (2.36 * 10^11 s). (1 mark) MP6: Shows appropriate algebraic rearrangement to make t the subject. (1 mark) MP7: Correct age of the artifact in the range 7400 to 7500 years. (1 mark)
PastPaper.question 10 · structured
7 PastPaper.marks
A sealed cylinder contains \(0.045\text{ mol}\) of an ideal helium gas at a temperature of \(20\text{ }^\circ\text{C}\) and a pressure of \(1.01 \times 10^5\text{ Pa}\). (a) Calculate the volume of the helium gas in the cylinder. (b) The helium gas is heated at constant volume until its pressure reaches \(2.50 \times 10^5\text{ Pa}\). Calculate the thermal energy supplied to the helium gas. (Specific heat capacity of helium at constant volume = \(3.12 \times 10^3\text{ J kg}^{-1}\text{ K}^{-1}\), Molar mass of helium = \(4.00 \times 10^{-3}\text{ kg mol}^{-1}\))
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) Use the ideal gas equation: \(pV = nRT\). Convert temperature to Kelvin: \(T = 20 + 273 = 293\text{ K}\). Solve for volume: \(V = \frac{nRT}{p} = \frac{0.045 \times 8.31 \times 293}{1.01 \times 10^5} = 1.08 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m}^3\). (b) Since the volume is constant, \(\frac{p_1}{T_1} = \frac{p_2}{T_2}\). Solve for final temperature: \(T_2 = T_1 \times \frac{p_2}{p_1} = 293 \times \frac{2.50 \times 10^5}{1.01 \times 10^5} = 725.2\text{ K}\). The temperature change is \(\Delta T = 725.2 - 293 = 432.2\text{ K}\). Find the mass of the gas: \(m = n \times M = 0.045 \times 4.00 \times 10^{-3} = 1.80 \times 10^{-4}\text{ kg}\). Calculate thermal energy: \(\Delta E = m c \Delta T = (1.80 \times 10^{-4}) \times (3.12 \times 10^3) \times 432.2 = 243\text{ J}\). This rounds to \(240\text{ J}\) to two significant figures.

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a): MP1: Converts Celsius temperature to Kelvin (293 K). (1 mark) MP2: Rearranges pV = nRT to find V. (1 mark) MP3: Correct calculation of volume in range 1.08 * 10^-3 to 1.1 * 10^-3 m^3. (1 mark) Part (b): MP4: Calculates the final temperature (725 K) or the temperature change (432 K). (1 mark) MP5: Calculates mass of helium gas (1.80 * 10^-4 kg). (1 mark) MP6: Uses thermal energy equation Delta E = m * c * Delta T. (1 mark) MP7: Correct value of thermal energy in range 240 J to 243 J. (1 mark)
PastPaper.question 11 · structured
7 PastPaper.marks
A star has a peak wavelength of electromagnetic emission \(\lambda_{\text{max}} = 380\text{ nm}\). (a) Calculate the surface temperature of the star. (b) The luminosity of this star is \(4.5 \times 10^{28}\text{ W}\). Calculate its radius. (c) Explain how the distance to this star could be determined if it were relatively close to Earth (within \(100\text{ pc}\)).
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) Apply Wien's displacement law: \(\lambda_{\text{max}} T = 2.898 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m K}\). Therefore, \(T = \frac{2.898 \times 10^{-3}}{380 \times 10^{-9}} = 7626\text{ K}\). (b) Apply Stefan-Boltzmann law: \(L = 4\pi r^2 \sigma T^4\). Rearranging for radius: \(r = \sqrt{\frac{L}{4\pi \sigma T^4}}\). Substitute values: \(r = \sqrt{\frac{4.5 \times 10^{28}}{4 \pi \times (5.67 \times 10^{-8}) \times (7626)^4}} = \sqrt{\frac{4.5 \times 10^{28}}{2.41 \times 10^9}} = 4.3 \times 10^9\text{ m}\). (c) The distance can be determined using trigonometric parallax. By measuring the apparent change in position of the star relative to more distant background stars at six-month intervals (opposite ends of the Earth's orbit), the parallax angle can be determined. Using trigonometry or the relationship \(d = 1/p\), the distance can then be calculated.

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a): MP1: Uses lambda_max * T = 2.898 * 10^-3 m K. (1 mark) MP2: Correct temperature in the range 7600 K to 7630 K. (1 mark) Part (b): MP3: Uses Stefan-Boltzmann law L = 4 * pi * r^2 * sigma * T^4. (1 mark) MP4: Shows rearrangement to solve for r. (1 mark) MP5: Calculates radius in the range 4.3 * 10^9 m to 4.4 * 10^9 m. (1 mark) Part (c): MP6: Describes measuring the position of the star against distant background stars at opposite sides of Earth's orbit (6 months apart). (1 mark) MP7: Explains how the parallax angle is used to calculate the distance d using d = 1/p or trigonometry. (1 mark)

PastPaper.section Unit 6 Practical Skills II

Answer all practical-based questions testing Unit 4 and Unit 5 contexts.
4 PastPaper.question · 50 PastPaper.marks
PastPaper.question 1 · Structured Practical
12.5 PastPaper.marks
A student investigates the magnetic flux density inside a solenoid. A small search coil is placed at the center of the solenoid. The solenoid is connected to an alternating current (a.c.) power supply. The student varies the frequency f of the alternating current while keeping the current amplitude constant, and measures the peak electromotive force (e.m.f.) V_0 induced in the search coil. (a) Draw a circuit diagram to show how the student can vary and measure the alternating current in the solenoid, and how the search coil is connected to measure the induced e.m.f. (b) Explain why an oscilloscope is used to measure V_0 rather than a standard digital multimeter. (c) The equation relating the peak induced e.m.f. to the frequency is V_0 = 2\pi f N A B_0, where N is the number of turns of the search coil, A is its cross-sectional area, and B_0 is the peak magnetic flux density. Explain why a graph of V_0 against f should be a straight line through the origin. (d) At a frequency of 100 Hz, the measured peak e.m.f. is V_0 = (24 \pm 2) mV. Calculate the percentage uncertainty in this value of V_0. (e) The search coil has N = 500 turns and cross-sectional area A = 1.2 \times 10^{-4} m^2. The student plots a graph of V_0 against f and finds the gradient of the line of best fit to be 2.45 \times 10^{-4} V s. Calculate the value of B_0. (f) State one safety precaution the student should take when performing this experiment, explaining your reasoning.
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PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) The circuit should show an alternating current (a.c.) power supply in series with the solenoid, an a.c. ammeter, and a variable resistor (or rheostat) to keep the current amplitude constant. The search coil must be connected directly to the input of an oscilloscope. (b) An oscilloscope displays the voltage waveform, allowing the student to directly and accurately measure the peak voltage (amplitude) V_0. A standard digital multimeter is typically calibrated for low frequencies (e.g. 50-60 Hz) and measures root-mean-square (r.m.s.) voltage, which would not give the direct peak value at varying frequencies. (c) Since the number of turns N, area A, and peak magnetic flux density B_0 are held constant, the equation V_0 = (2\pi N A B_0) f is of the form y = mx, which represents a straight line through the origin with a gradient of 2\pi N A B_0. (d) Percentage uncertainty = (absolute uncertainty / measured value) \times 100 = (2 / 24) \times 100 = 8.3%. (e) Since gradient m = 2\pi N A B_0, we have B_0 = m / (2\pi N A). Substituting the values: B_0 = 2.45 \times 10^{-4} / (2 \times \pi \times 500 \times 1.2 \times 10^{-4}) = 2.45 \times 10^{-4} / 0.377 = 6.50 \times 10^{-4} T. (f) The solenoid can become very hot due to high currents over time. The student should switch off the current between taking measurements to prevent overheating and potential burns.

PastPaper.markingScheme

(a) [3 marks]: 1 mark for correct symbol of a.c. power supply, solenoid, and series ammeter. 1 mark for showing a variable resistor in series to control current. 1 mark for search coil connected to an oscilloscope. (b) [2 marks]: 1 mark for stating that the oscilloscope allows direct measurement of peak voltage from the displayed waveform. 1 mark for stating that standard multimeters measure r.m.s. or are inaccurate at high frequencies. (c) [2 marks]: 1 mark for identifying that 2, \pi, N, A, and B_0 are constants. 1 mark for relating the equation to y = mx, which has a y-intercept of zero. (d) [1 mark]: 1 mark for 8.3% (accept 8% or 8.33%). (e) [3 marks]: 1 mark for identifying that gradient = 2\pi N A B_0. 1 mark for rearranging to make B_0 the subject. 1 mark for correct calculation showing 6.5 \times 10^{-4} T (accept 6.50 \times 10^{-4} T). (f) [1.5 marks]: 1 mark for stating safety precaution (e.g., switch off current between readings) and 0.5 mark for the reason (to prevent overheating / burns).
PastPaper.question 2 · Structured Practical
12.5 PastPaper.marks
A student uses a constant-volume gas thermometer to determine the value of absolute zero. A flask containing a fixed mass of dry air is connected to a pressure sensor and immersed in a water bath. (a) Describe how the student can ensure that the temperature of the air inside the flask is uniform and equal to the temperature measured by the thermometer. (b) State how the value of absolute zero in degrees Celsius can be obtained from a graph of pressure p on the vertical axis against temperature \theta in degrees Celsius on the horizontal axis. (c) Explain why the volume of the gas flask must remain constant during the experiment, and how a student using a traditional liquid U-tube manometer (instead of a digital sensor) would maintain a constant volume. (d) The student obtains a line of best fit with gradient m = 362 Pa per degree Celsius and a vertical intercept c = 9.89 \times 10^4 Pa. Calculate the value of absolute zero in degrees Celsius from these measurements. (e) The student estimates the absolute uncertainty in the gradient to be \pm 12 Pa per degree Celsius and the absolute uncertainty in the vertical intercept to be \pm 0.15 \times 10^4 Pa. Calculate the percentage uncertainty in the determined value of absolute zero.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) The student should stir the water bath thoroughly before taking any temperature and pressure readings, and wait for a short period after heating has stopped to ensure thermal equilibrium between the water bath and the flask of air. (b) Absolute zero can be found by extrapolating the straight-line graph to the horizontal axis where the pressure p is zero. The temperature coordinate at this intercept is the value of absolute zero in degrees Celsius. (c) Pressure is only directly proportional to absolute temperature if both volume and mass are kept constant, according to the pressure law. When using a U-tube manometer, heating the gas causes it to expand and push down the liquid on the flask side. To keep the volume constant, the open side of the U-tube must be adjusted vertically so that the liquid level on the flask side returns to a fixed reference mark before each reading. (d) The equation of the line is p = m \theta + c. Setting p = 0 gives 0 = m \theta_0 + c, which rearranges to \theta_0 = -c / m. Substituting the values: \theta_0 = - (9.89 \times 10^4 Pa) / (362 Pa ^\circ C^{-1}) = -273.2 ^\circ C. (e) The percentage uncertainty in c is (0.15 \times 10^4 / 9.89 \times 10^4) \times 100% = 1.52%. The percentage uncertainty in m is (12 / 362) \times 100% = 3.31%. Since \theta_0 = c / m, the percentage uncertainty in \theta_0 is the sum of these percentage uncertainties: 1.52% + 3.31% = 4.83%.

PastPaper.markingScheme

(a) [2 marks]: 1 mark for stating that the water bath must be stirred. 1 mark for explaining that this ensures thermal equilibrium/uniform temperature throughout. (b) [1 mark]: 1 mark for stating that absolute zero is the x-intercept (or temperature where pressure is zero) obtained by extrapolating the line of best fit. (c) [3 marks]: 1 mark for referencing the Pressure Law / Gas Law where p is proportional to T only if volume is constant. 1 mark for explaining that gas expansion pushes liquid level down. 1 mark for explaining that the adjustable tube must be raised/lowered to return the liquid to the index mark. (d) [2.5 marks]: 1 mark for setting p = 0 and writing the expression \theta_0 = -c / m. 1.5 marks for correct calculation resulting in -273 ^\circ C (or -273.2 ^\circ C). (e) [4 marks]: 1 mark for percentage uncertainty in c = 1.52%. 1 mark for percentage uncertainty in m = 3.31%. 1 mark for stating that percentage uncertainties should be added. 1 mark for final percentage uncertainty of 4.8% (or 4.83%).
PastPaper.question 3 · Structured Practical
12.5 PastPaper.marks
A student investigates the vertical oscillations of a loaded cantilever (a horizontal rule clamped at one end with a mass M attached to the free end). The relationship between the time period T of the oscillations and the mass M is given by T^2 = (4\pi^2 / k) M + (4\pi^2 m_{eff} / k), where k is the stiffness of the cantilever and m_{eff} is its effective mass. (a) The student measures the total time t for 20 oscillations. Explain why measuring the time for 20 oscillations rather than a single oscillation improves the accuracy of the determined period T. (b) Describe how the student should use a fiducial marker to improve the precision of the timing measurements. (c) The student records three measurements for the time of 20 oscillations when M = 0.500 kg: t_1 = 14.82 s, t_2 = 14.76 s, and t_3 = 14.88 s. Calculate the mean time period T for one oscillation and its absolute uncertainty. (d) A graph of T^2 on the vertical axis against M on the horizontal axis is plotted. The gradient of the line of best fit is 1.12 s^2 kg^{-1} and the vertical intercept is 0.045 s^2. Calculate the stiffness k and the effective mass m_{eff} of the cantilever.
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(a) Reaction time error (typically around 0.1 to 0.2 seconds) is a constant random error. By timing 20 oscillations, this absolute timing error is distributed over 20 cycles, which reduces the percentage uncertainty in the determined period T by a factor of 20. (b) A fiducial marker (such as a pin or card) should be placed at the equilibrium position of the cantilever's oscillation. The student should start and stop the stopwatch at the instant the cantilever passes this marker, because the cantilever is moving at its maximum speed at the equilibrium position, which minimizes the timing judgment uncertainty. (c) The mean time for 20 oscillations is t_mean = (14.82 + 14.76 + 14.88) / 3 = 14.82 s. The range of the measurements is 14.88 - 14.76 = 0.12 s. The absolute uncertainty in the total time is range / 2 = 0.12 / 2 = 0.06 s. The mean time period T for a single oscillation is T = 14.82 / 20 = 0.741 s. The absolute uncertainty in T is 0.06 / 20 = 0.003 s. Thus, T = (0.741 \pm 0.003) s. (d) From the equation, the gradient g = 4\pi^2 / k. Therefore, k = 4\pi^2 / g = 4\pi^2 / 1.12 = 35.25 N m^{-1}$. The vertical intercept c = 4\pi^2 m_{eff} / k. Since c = g \times m_{eff}, we have m_{eff} = c / g = 0.045 / 1.12 = 0.0402 kg (or 40.2 g).

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(a) [2 marks]: 1 mark for stating that reaction time error is constant. 1 mark for explaining that timing more oscillations reduces the percentage uncertainty in T. (b) [2 marks]: 1 mark for placing the marker at the equilibrium (center) position. 1 mark for explaining that the cantilever moves fastest here, reducing judgment error. (c) [4 marks]: 1 mark for calculating mean time t = 14.82 s. 1 mark for finding the absolute uncertainty in total time as range/2 = 0.06 s. 1 mark for dividing mean time by 20 to get T = 0.741 s. 1 mark for dividing the uncertainty by 20 to get 0.003 s. (d) [4.5 marks]: 1 mark for identifying gradient = 4\pi^2/k. 1 mark for calculating stiffness k = 35.3 N m^{-1} (accept 35 to 35.3). 1 mark for identifying vertical intercept = 4\pi^2 m_{eff}/k. 1 mark for showing m_{eff} = c / gradient. 0.5 mark for calculating m_{eff} = 0.040 kg (or 40 g, accept 0.040 to 0.0402 kg).
PastPaper.question 4 · Structured Practical
12.5 PastPaper.marks
A student investigates the absorption of gamma radiation by lead sheets of varying thickness x. The relationship between the corrected count rate C and the thickness x is given by C = C_0 e^{-\mu x}, where C_0 is the corrected count rate with no lead absorber and \mu is the linear attenuation coefficient. (a) Before measuring the count rate of the gamma source, the student must measure the background count rate. State how the background count rate is measured and why it is necessary to subtract it from the experimental count rates. (b) Show that a graph of \ln C against x should be a straight line, and explain how the value of \mu can be determined from this graph. (c) The student obtains the following data: for thickness x = 0.0 mm, C = 124 per second; for x = 5.0 mm, C = 76 per second; for x = 10.0 mm, C = 45 per second; for x = 15.0 mm, C = 28 per second; for x = 20.0 mm, C = 17 per second. Calculate the value of \ln(C / s^{-1}) for each thickness, presenting your values in a table. (d) The student plots \ln(C / s^{-1}) against x and draws a line of best fit, obtaining a gradient of -0.100 mm^{-1}. Calculate the half-value thickness x_{1/2} of lead (the thickness of lead required to reduce the corrected count rate to half of its initial value). (e) Discuss the safety measures that must be taken when performing this experiment in a school laboratory.
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(a) To measure the background count rate, the radioactive gamma source is placed inside its lead-lined storage container far away from the Geiger-Muller (GM) tube. The count rate is recorded for a long time period (e.g., 10 minutes) and then divided by the time. It must be subtracted from all subsequent readings because background radiation is always present from cosmic rays and rocks, and subtracting it ensures we only measure the radiation coming from the source itself. (b) Taking the natural logarithm of both sides of C = C_0 e^{-\mu x} gives \ln C = \ln C_0 - \mu x. This matches the linear equation y = mx + c, where y = \ln C, x = x, and gradient m = -\mu. Therefore, the graph of \ln C against x is a straight line, and the linear attenuation coefficient \mu is equal to the negative of the gradient. (c) Table of values: For x = 0.0 mm, \ln C = \ln(124) = 4.82. For x = 5.0 mm, \ln C = \ln(76) = 4.33. For x = 10.0 mm, \ln C = \ln(45) = 3.81. For x = 15.0 mm, \ln C = \ln(28) = 3.33. For x = 20.0 mm, \ln C = \ln(17) = 2.83. (d) When the count rate is halved, C = 0.5 C_0. Substituting this into the equation: 0.5 C_0 = C_0 e^{-\mu x_{1/2}} \implies 0.5 = e^{-\mu x_{1/2}}. Taking natural logs: \ln(0.5) = -\mu x_{1/2} \implies x_{1/2} = \ln 2 / \mu. Given gradient = -\mu = -0.100 mm^{-1}$, we have \mu = 0.100 mm^{-1}. Therefore, x_{1/2} = 0.693 / 0.100 mm^{-1} = 6.93 mm. (e) Safety measures include: 1. Keep the source in a lead-lined container when not in use. 2. Handle the source only using long-handled tongs to maximize distance. 3. Point the source away from the body and never point it towards anyone else. 4. Minimize the duration of exposure to the source.

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(a) [2.5 marks]: 1 mark for stating that the source must be removed/stored away during background measurement. 0.5 mark for measuring counts over a long time and dividing by time to get rate. 1 mark for stating that background radiation is always present and subtraction gives the true/corrected count rate of the source. (b) [2 marks]: 1 mark for correctly showing the mathematical step \ln C = \ln C_0 - \mu x. 1 mark for stating that comparing this to y = mx + c shows gradient = -\mu (or \mu = -gradient). (c) [2 marks]: 2 marks for calculating all 5 values of \ln C correctly (4.82, 4.33, 3.81, 3.33, 2.83) to 2 or 3 decimal places (deduct 1 mark if table structure is missing or values are incorrectly rounded). (d) [3 marks]: 1 mark for using the relationship C / C_0 = 0.5 to show x_{1/2} = \ln 2 / \mu. 1 mark for identifying \mu = 0.100 mm^{-1} from the gradient. 1 mark for calculating x_{1/2} = 6.93 mm (accept 6.9 mm). (e) [3 marks]: 1 mark each for any three valid safety measures: using long-handled tongs, keeping the source in a lead container when not in use, pointing the source away from people, keeping a safe distance, or minimizing exposure time (maximum 3 marks).

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