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Thinka Oct 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 Oct 2023 Cambridge International A Level Physics (YPH11) paper. Not affiliated with or reproduced from Cambridge.

PastPaper.section Unit 1: Mechanics and Materials

Answer ALL questions. Section A comprises 10 multiple-choice questions. Section B comprises 8 structured and calculation questions.
18 PastPaper.question · 80 PastPaper.marks
PastPaper.question 1 · multiple_choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A block of mass m is pulled up a rough slope inclined at an angle \(\theta\) to the horizontal at a constant speed \(v\) by a force \(F\) acting parallel to the slope. The coefficient of friction between the block and the slope is \(\mu\). Which of the following expressions represents the power dissipated against friction?
  1. A.\(\mu m g v \sin \theta\)
  2. B.\(\mu m g v \cos \theta\)
  3. C.\(F v + m g v \sin \theta\)
  4. D.\(F v \cos \theta\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The normal reaction force \(R\) acting on the block is perpendicular to the inclined plane: \(R = m g \cos \theta\). The frictional force opposing the motion is \(F_f = \mu R = \mu m g \cos \theta\). Since the block is moving at a constant speed \(v\) up the slope, the rate of work done against friction (power dissipated) is \(P = F_f v = \mu m g v \cos \theta\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for the correct answer (B).
PastPaper.question 2 · multiple_choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A wire of length \(L\) and cross-sectional area \(A\) is made of a material with Young modulus \(E\). The wire is stretched by a tension \(T\) so that its extension is \(x\). A second wire of the same material has length \(2L\) and radius half that of the first wire. It is subjected to a tension \(2T\). What is the extension of the second wire?
  1. A.\(2x\)
  2. B.\(4x\)
  3. C.\(8x\)
  4. D.\(16x\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The Young modulus is given by \(E = \frac{\text{Stress}}{\text{Strain}} = \frac{T / A}{x / L} = \frac{TL}{Ax}\). Rearranging for extension gives \(x = \frac{TL}{AE}\). For the second wire: the material is the same, so the Young modulus \(E\) is the same. The length is \(L_2 = 2L\). The radius is half, so the cross-sectional area is \(A_2 = \pi r_2^2 = \pi (r/2)^2 = A/4\). The tension is \(T_2 = 2T\). Substituting these values into the extension equation: \(x_2 = \frac{T_2 L_2}{A_2 E} = \frac{(2T)(2L)}{(A/4)E} = 16 \left(\frac{TL}{AE}\right) = 16x\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for the correct answer (D).
PastPaper.question 3 · multiple_choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A ball of mass \(m\) is dropped from rest from a height \(h\) onto a hard horizontal floor. It rebounds to a maximum height of \(0.64h\). If the ball is in contact with the floor for a time \(\Delta t\), what is the magnitude of the average force exerted by the floor on the ball during the collision? (Assume the effect of gravity during the short contact time is negligible.)
  1. A.\(\frac{0.36 m \sqrt{2gh}}{\Delta t}\)
  2. B.\(\frac{0.8 m \sqrt{2gh}}{\Delta t}\)
  3. C.\(\frac{1.8 m \sqrt{2gh}}{\Delta t}\)
  4. D.\(\frac{3.24 m \sqrt{2gh}}{\Delta t}\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The velocity just before impact is \(v_1 = \sqrt{2gh}\) (downwards). The velocity just after impact is \(v_2 = \sqrt{2g(0.64h)} = 0.8\sqrt{2gh}\) (upwards). Taking upwards as the positive direction, the change in velocity is \(\Delta v = v_2 - v_1 = 0.8\sqrt{2gh} - (-\sqrt{2gh}) = 1.8\sqrt{2gh}\). The change in momentum is \(\Delta p = m \Delta v = 1.8 m \sqrt{2gh}\). By Newton's second law, the average force is \(F = \frac{\Delta p}{\Delta t} = \frac{1.8 m \sqrt{2gh}}{\Delta t}\) during collision.

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1 mark for the correct answer (C).
PastPaper.question 4 · multiple_choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A small spherical bubble of air of radius \(r\) rises at a constant terminal velocity \(v\) through a tall column of a liquid of viscosity \(\eta\) and density \(\rho\). The density of the air inside the bubble is negligible compared to the density of the liquid. Which of the following is a correct expression for the terminal velocity \(v\)?
  1. A.\(\frac{2 r^2 \rho g}{9 \eta}\)
  2. B.\(\frac{9 r^2 \rho g}{2 \eta}\)
  3. C.\(\frac{2 r \rho g}{9 \eta^2}\)
  4. D.\(\frac{9 \eta}{2 r^2 \rho g}\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

At terminal velocity, the upward upthrust force equals the downward viscous drag force (neglecting air weight). Upthrust is \(U = \frac{4}{3}\pi r^3 \rho g\). Viscous drag is \(F_D = 6\pi \eta r v\). Equating the two forces: \(\frac{4}{3}\pi r^3 \rho g = 6\pi \eta r v\). Solving for \(v\) yields \(v = \frac{2 r^2 \rho g}{9 \eta}\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for the correct answer (A).
PastPaper.question 5 · multiple_choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A small sphere falls from rest through a viscous liquid. The viscous drag force acting on the sphere is directly proportional to its velocity \(v\). Which of the following statements correctly describes how the sphere's acceleration \(a\) varies with its velocity \(v\)?
  1. A.The acceleration remains constant as velocity increases.
  2. B.The acceleration decreases linearly as velocity increases.
  3. C.The acceleration decreases non-linearly, forming a curve that is concave upwards.
  4. D.The acceleration increases linearly as velocity increases.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The equation of motion for the falling sphere is \(W - U - F_D = ma\), where \(W\) is the weight, \(U\) is the constant upthrust, and \(F_D = kv\) is the velocity-dependent drag force. Rearranging this gives \(ma = (W - U) - kv\), which simplifies to \(a = \frac{W - U}{m} - \frac{k}{m}v\). This represents a linear relationship with a negative gradient. Thus, the acceleration decreases linearly as the velocity increases.

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for the correct answer (B).
PastPaper.question 6 · multiple_choice
1 PastPaper.marks
The mechanical properties of four materials, W, X, Y, and Z, are described below: W: high Young modulus, undergoes large plastic deformation before fracturing. X: high Young modulus, undergoes negligible plastic deformation before fracturing. Y: low Young modulus, undergoes large elastic deformation and completely recovers. Z: low Young modulus, undergoes large plastic deformation before fracturing. Which material is both stiff and ductile?
  1. A.W
  2. B.X
  3. C.Y
  4. D.Z
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

Stiffness is defined by a high Young modulus, which represents a large resistance to elastic deformation. Ductility is the ability of a material to undergo significant plastic deformation before breaking. Therefore, material W is both stiff and ductile.

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for the correct answer (A).
PastPaper.question 7 · multiple_choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A uniform rod of length \(L\) and weight \(W\) is suspended horizontally by two vertical strings attached at its ends. A block of weight \(2W\) is placed on the rod at a distance of \(\frac{1}{4}L\) from the left end. What is the tension \(T_R\) in the right-hand string?
  1. A.0.5W
  2. B.1.0W
  3. C.1.5W
  4. D.2.0W
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

Taking moments about the left end of the rod to eliminate the tension in the left string: the clockwise moments are due to the weight of the block \(2W \times \frac{1}{4}L = \frac{1}{2}WL\) and the weight of the uniform rod acting at its center \(W \times \frac{1}{2}L = \frac{1}{2}WL\). The anticlockwise moment is due to the right-hand string tension \(T_R \times L\). For equilibrium, the sum of clockwise moments equals the anticlockwise moments: \(T_R \times L = \frac{1}{2}WL + \frac{1}{2}WL = WL\). Solving for tension gives \(T_R = W = 1.0W\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for the correct answer (B).
PastPaper.question 8 · multiple_choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A car of mass \(m\) travels up a hill of slope angle \(theta\) to the horizontal at a constant speed \(v\). The total resistive force opposing the motion of the car is \(R\). Which of the following represents the useful output power of the car's engine?
  1. A.\(m g v \sin \theta\)
  2. B.\(R v\)
  3. C.\((R + m g \sin \theta) v\)
  4. D.\((R - m g \sin \theta) v\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

Since the car travels up the hill at a constant speed, the engine must supply a driving force \(F\) that balances the component of the gravitational force down the slope and the resistive force: \(F = R + m g \sin \theta\). The useful output power of the engine is the rate of doing work, given by \(P = F v = (R + m g \sin \theta) v\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for the correct answer (C).
PastPaper.question 9 · Multiple Choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A ball is projected horizontally from the edge of a cliff of height \(h\) with an initial speed \(u\). The ball strikes the ground at an angle of \(45^\circ\) to the horizontal.

Assuming air resistance is negligible, which of the following is a correct expression for \(h\)?
  1. A.\(h = \frac{u^2}{2g}\)
  2. B.\(h = \frac{u^2}{g}\)
  3. C.\(h = \frac{2u^2}{g}\)
  4. D.\(h = \frac{u^2}{4g}\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The horizontal component of the velocity remains constant throughout the motion, so at impact \(v_x = u\).

The ball strikes the ground at an angle of \(45^\circ\) to the horizontal, which means the vertical and horizontal components of the velocity at impact are equal in magnitude:
\(\tan(45^\circ) = \frac{v_y}{v_x} = 1 \implies v_y = v_x = u\)

Using the equations of motion for the vertical direction:
\(v_y^2 = u_y^2 + 2gh\)

Since the ball was projected horizontally, the initial vertical velocity \(u_y = 0\):
\(u^2 = 2gh\)

Rearranging for \(h\):
\(h = \frac{u^2}{2g}\)

Therefore, the correct option is A.

PastPaper.markingScheme

**[1 Mark]**
* Correct answer is A.
* Award 1 mark for selecting option A.
* Reject all other options.
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.

When the same tensile force is applied to both wires, what is the ratio of the extension of wire X to the extension of wire Y, \(\frac{\Delta x_{\text{X}}}{\Delta x_{\text{Y}}}\)?
  1. A.\(\frac{1}{2}\)
  2. B.1
  3. C.2
  4. D.4
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The extension \(\Delta x\) of a wire is given by the formula:
\(\Delta x = \frac{F L}{A E}\)

Where:
* \(F\) is the applied force (same for both)
* \(L\) is the original length
* \(A\) is the cross-sectional area
* \(E\) is the Young modulus of the material (same for both as they are made of the same material)

The cross-sectional area \(A\) is related to the diameter \(d\) by:
\(A = \frac{\pi d^2}{4} \propto d^2\)

Therefore, the extension is proportional to \(\frac{L}{d^2}\):
\(\Delta x \propto \frac{L}{d^2}\)

For wire X:
\(\Delta x_{\text{X}} \propto \frac{L}{d^2}\)

For wire Y:
\(\Delta x_{\text{Y}} \propto \frac{2L}{(2d)^2} = \frac{2L}{4d^2} = \frac{L}{2d^2}\)

Taking the ratio of the extension of wire X to wire Y:
\(\frac{\Delta x_{\text{X}}}{\Delta x_{\text{Y}}} = \frac{\frac{L}{d^2}}{\frac{L}{2d^2}} = 2\)

Therefore, the correct option is C.

PastPaper.markingScheme

**[1 Mark]**
* Correct answer is C.
* Award 1 mark for selecting option C.
* Reject all other options.
PastPaper.question 11 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
8.75 PastPaper.marks
A package is dropped horizontally from a drone flying at a constant speed of \( 12\text{ m s}^{-1} \) at a height of \( 45\text{ m} \) above level ground. Air resistance may be neglected.

(a) Explain why the horizontal component of the velocity of the package remains constant during its flight. (2 marks)

(b) Show that the package takes approximately \( 3.0\text{ s} \) to reach the ground. (3 marks)

(c) Calculate the magnitude and direction of the velocity of the package immediately before it impacts the ground. (3.75 marks)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) Since air resistance is neglected, there are no horizontal forces acting on the package after it is released. According to Newton's First Law of Motion, since the net horizontal force is zero, the horizontal acceleration is zero, which means the horizontal component of the velocity remains constant at \( 12\text{ m s}^{-1} \).

(b) For the vertical motion, taking downwards as positive:
Initial vertical velocity \( u_y = 0 \)
Vertical acceleration \( a_y = g = 9.81\text{ m s}^{-2} \)
Vertical displacement \( s_y = 45\text{ m} \)
Using the equation of motion:
\( s_y = u_y t + \frac{1}{2} a_y t^2 \)
\( 45 = 0 + \frac{1}{2} (9.81) t^2 \)
\( t^2 = \frac{90}{9.81} \approx 9.174\text{ s}^2 \)
\( t = \sqrt{9.174} \approx 3.03\text{ s} \)
This is approximately \( 3.0\text{ s} \).

(c) The horizontal velocity component at impact is \( v_x = 12\text{ m s}^{-1} \).
The vertical velocity component at impact is:
\( v_y = u_y + g t = 0 + (9.81 \times 3.029) \approx 29.71\text{ m s}^{-1} \)

The magnitude of the velocity \( v \) is:
\( v = \sqrt{v_x^2 + v_y^2} = \sqrt{12^2 + 29.71^2} = \sqrt{144 + 882.7} = \sqrt{1026.7} \approx 32.0\text{ m s}^{-1} \)

The angle \( \theta \) with the horizontal is:
\( \theta = \tan^{-1}\left(\frac{v_y}{v_x}\right) = \tan^{-1}\left(\frac{29.71}{12}\right) \approx 68.0^{\circ} \)

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a) [2 Marks]:
- MP1: States that there are no horizontal forces acting on the package / air resistance is negligible. (1)
- MP2: Links the absence of a horizontal force to Newton's First Law (or \( F = ma \)), stating that there is no acceleration horizontally so velocity remains constant. (1)

Part (b) [3 Marks]:
- MP1: Selects and states the equation of motion \( s = ut + \frac{1}{2}at^2 \) with \( u = 0 \). (1)
- MP2: Substitutes values correctly: \( 45 = 0.5 \times 9.81 \times t^2 \). (1)
- MP3: Calculates \( t = 3.03\text{ s} \) and concludes that \( t \approx 3.0\text{ s} \). (1)

Part (c) [3.75 Marks]:
- MP1: Calculates vertical velocity component \( v_y = 29.7\text{ m s}^{-1} \) (or uses \( v_y^2 = 2as \) to get \( v_y \)). (1)
- MP2: Uses Pythagoras' theorem to find magnitude: \( v = \sqrt{12^2 + 29.7^2} \). (1)
- MP3: Uses trigonometric ratio: \( \theta = \tan^{-1}(v_y / v_x) \). (1)
- MP4: Obtains the final magnitude of \( 32.0\text{ m s}^{-1} \) (accept \( 32.1\text{ m s}^{-1} \)) and direction \( 68.0^{\circ} \) (accept \( 68^{\circ} \)) below the horizontal. (0.75)
PastPaper.question 12 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
8.75 PastPaper.marks
A small steel ball-bearing of radius \( 1.5\text{ mm} \) and mass \( 1.1 \times 10^{-4}\text{ kg} \) is falling at a constant terminal velocity through a tall cylinder filled with a viscous liquid of density \( 1260\text{ kg m}^{-3} \).

(a) Draw a labelled free-body diagram showing the three forces acting on the ball-bearing as it falls at terminal velocity. The relative lengths of the force vectors should represent their magnitudes. (3 marks)

(b) By considering the forces acting on the ball-bearing, calculate its terminal velocity.

(Viscosity of the liquid \( \eta = 0.95\text{ Pa s} \); volume of a sphere \( V = \frac{4}{3}\pi r^3 \)). (5.75 marks)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) A correct free-body diagram must show:
- Weight (\( W \)) acting vertically downwards.
- Upthrust (\( U \)) acting vertically upwards.
- Viscous drag (\( D \)) acting vertically upwards.
- Since the ball-bearing is at terminal velocity, the upward forces must balance the downward forces: \( W = U + D \). The sum of the lengths of the arrows representing \( U \) and \( D \) must equal the length of the arrow representing \( W \).

(b) Calculating the forces:
- Weight \( W = mg = 1.1 \times 10^{-4}\text{ kg} \times 9.81\text{ m s}^{-2} = 1.0791 \times 10^{-3}\text{ N} \)
- Volume of the ball-bearing:
\( V = \frac{4}{3} \pi r^3 = \frac{4}{3} \pi (1.5 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m})^3 = 1.4137 \times 10^{-8}\text{ m}^3 \)
- Upthrust \( U = \rho_{\text{fluid}} V g = 1260\text{ kg m}^{-3} \times 1.4137 \times 10^{-8}\text{ m}^3 \times 9.81\text{ m s}^{-2} = 1.7474 \times 10^{-4}\text{ N} \)

Since \( W = U + D \):
\( D = W - U = 1.0791 \times 10^{-3} - 1.7474 \times 10^{-4} = 9.0436 \times 10^{-4}\text{ N} \)

Using Stokes' Law for viscous drag:
\( D = 6\pi \eta r v \)
\( 9.0436 \times 10^{-4} = 6 \pi (0.95) (1.5 \times 10^{-3}) v \)
\( 9.0436 \times 10^{-4} = 0.02686 v \)
\( v = \frac{9.0436 \times 10^{-4}}{0.02686} \approx 0.0337\text{ m s}^{-1} \)

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a) [3 Marks]:
- MP1: Draws and labels the Weight force (\( W \), \( mg \), or gravity) pointing vertically downwards. (1)
- MP2: Draws and labels the Upthrust force (\( U \) or buoyancy) and Viscous drag force (\( D \), \( F \), or friction) pointing vertically upwards. (1)
- MP3: The lengths of the arrows are scaled correctly: length of upward arrows (\( U + D \)) is visually equal to the length of the downward arrow (\( W \)). (1)

Part (b) [5.75 Marks]:
- MP1: Correctly calculates Weight: \( W = 1.08 \times 10^{-3}\text{ N} \). (1)
- MP2: Correctly calculates the volume of the sphere: \( V = 1.41 \times 10^{-8}\text{ m}^3 \). (1)
- MP3: Correctly calculates Upthrust using density of liquid: \( U = 1.75 \times 10^{-4}\text{ N} \). (1)
- MP4: Equates forces for constant velocity (\( W = U + D \)) to find \( D = 9.04 \times 10^{-4}\text{ N} \). (1)
- MP5: Equates drag to Stokes' Law formula \( 6\pi\eta r v \) and rearranges for \( v \). (1)
- MP6: Calculates terminal velocity \( v = 0.034\text{ m s}^{-1} \) (accept \( 0.0337\text{ m s}^{-1} \)). (0.75)
PastPaper.question 13 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
8.75 PastPaper.marks
A tennis ball of mass \( 0.058\text{ kg} \) is served horizontally at \( 35\text{ m s}^{-1} \). It strikes a vertical wall and rebounds horizontally with a speed of \( 25\text{ m s}^{-1} \). The ball is in contact with the wall for a time of \( 8.5\text{ ms} \).

(a) Explain, in terms of Newton's laws of motion, why the wall exerts a force on the ball, and why the ball exerts an equal and opposite force on the wall. (3.75 marks)

(b) Calculate the magnitude of the change in momentum of the tennis ball during the collision. (2 marks)

(c) Calculate the average force exerted on the ball by the wall during the impact. (3 marks)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) According to Newton's Second Law, the net force is proportional to the rate of change of momentum (\( F = \frac{\Delta p}{\Delta t} \)). Because the ball's velocity changes from forward to backward, its momentum changes, which requires a force. This force is exerted on the ball by the wall.
According to Newton's Third Law, when one body exerts a force on another, the second body exerts an equal and opposite force on the first. Therefore, as the wall exerts a force on the ball to change its momentum, the ball exerts a force of equal magnitude and opposite direction on the wall.

(b) Taking the initial direction of motion as positive:
Initial velocity \( u = +35\text{ m s}^{-1} \)
Final velocity \( v = -25\text{ m s}^{-1} \)
Change in momentum \( \Delta p = m(v - u) \)
\( \Delta p = 0.058 \times (-25 - 35) = 0.058 \times (-60) = -3.48\text{ kg m s}^{-1} \)
Therefore, the magnitude of the change in momentum is \( 3.48\text{ kg m s}^{-1} \) (or \( \text{N s} \)).

(c) Using Newton's Second Law:
\( F_{\text{average}} = \frac{\Delta p}{\Delta t} \)
\( F_{\text{average}} = \frac{3.48\text{ kg m s}^{-1}}{8.5 \times 10^{-3}\text{ s}} \approx 409.4\text{ N} \)
To 2 significant figures, the average force is \( 410\text{ N} \).

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a) [3.75 Marks]:
- MP1: States that the ball experiences a change in velocity/momentum. (1)
- MP2: References Newton's Second Law to explain that a force is required to produce this rate of change of momentum, which is exerted by the wall. (1)
- MP3: References Newton's Third Law to state that forces always occur in equal and opposite pairs. (1)
- MP4: Connects this to the ball exerting an equal and opposite force on the wall. (0.75)

Part (b) [2 Marks]:
- MP1: Realizes that velocity is a vector and accounts for the direction change (e.g., \( 35 - (-25) = 60 \)). (1)
- MP2: Calculates the magnitude of change in momentum as \( 3.48\text{ kg m s}^{-1} \) (or \( \text{N s} \)). (1)

Part (c) [3 Marks]:
- MP1: Recalls the relationship \( F = \frac{\Delta p}{\Delta t} \). (1)
- MP2: Substitutes values with time correctly converted to seconds (\( 8.5 \times 10^{-3}\text{ s} \)). (1)
- MP3: Calculates average force as \( 410\text{ N} \) (accept \( 409\text{ N} \)). (1)
PastPaper.question 14 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
8.75 PastPaper.marks
An engineer tests a structural steel wire to determine its suitability for a suspension mechanism. The wire has an unstretched length of \( 3.50\text{ m} \) and a diameter of \( 1.20\text{ mm} \). The Young modulus of the steel is \( 2.00 \times 10^{11}\text{ Pa} \). During the test, a load of \( 480\text{ N} \) is applied to the wire.

(a) Show that the cross-sectional area of the wire is approximately \( 1.1 \times 10^{-6}\text{ m}^2 \). (2 marks)

(b) Calculate the extension of the wire under this load, assuming it remains within its limit of proportionality. (3.75 marks)

(c) The load is increased until the wire reaches its elastic limit. Explain what is meant by the 'elastic limit' and describe how the behavior of the wire changes once this limit is exceeded. (3 marks)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) The cross-sectional area \( A \) is given by:
\( A = \frac{\pi d^2}{4} = \frac{\pi (1.20 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m})^2}{4} \approx 1.131 \times 10^{-6}\text{ m}^2 \)
This is approximately \( 1.1 \times 10^{-6}\text{ m}^2 \).

(b) Using the definition of Young modulus \( E \):
\( E = \frac{\text{Stress}}{\text{Strain}} = \frac{F / A}{\Delta L / L} = \frac{F L}{A \Delta L} \)

Rearranging to find the extension \( \Delta L \):
\( \Delta L = \frac{F L}{A E} \)
\( \Delta L = \frac{480\text{ N} \times 3.50\text{ m}}{1.131 \times 10^{-6}\text{ m}^2 \times 2.00 \times 10^{11}\text{ Pa}} \)
\( \Delta L = \frac{1680}{2.262 \times 10^5} \approx 7.43 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m} = 7.43\text{ mm} \)

(c) The elastic limit is the maximum force or stress that can be applied to a material such that it will still return to its original length when the load is removed. Once this limit is exceeded, the material undergoes plastic deformation. It will not return to its original length and will have a permanent extension (permanent set) when the load is removed.

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a) [2 Marks]:
- MP1: Uses the area formula \( A = \pi r^2 \) or \( A = \frac{\pi d^2}{4} \). (1)
- MP2: Converts the diameter to meters and shows the calculation resulting in \( 1.13 \times 10^{-6}\text{ m}^2 \). (1)

Part (b) [3.75 Marks]:
- MP1: Recalls the Young Modulus equation: \( E = \frac{F L}{A \Delta L} \). (1)
- MP2: Correctly rearranges the equation for extension \( \Delta L \). (1)
- MP3: Substitutes values correctly, using \( 1.13 \times 10^{-6}\text{ m}^2 \) (or \( 1.1 \times 10^{-6}\text{ m}^2 \)). (1)
- MP4: Calculates the extension as \( 7.4\text{ mm} \) (accept \( 7.4 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m} \); if using \( 1.1 \times 10^{-6}\text{ m}^2 \), accept \( 7.6\text{ mm} \)). (0.75)

Part (c) [3 Marks]:
- MP1: Defines the elastic limit as the point beyond which the material will not return to its original shape/length when the force is removed. (1)
- MP2: Explains that exceeding the limit causes plastic deformation. (1)
- MP3: Describes that there will be a permanent extension when the load is removed because atomic layers have slid past each other. (1)
PastPaper.question 15 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
8.75 PastPaper.marks
A vehicle of mass \( 850\text{ kg} \) climbs a road that is inclined at an angle of \( 8.0^{\circ} \) to the horizontal. The vehicle travels up the hill at a constant speed of \( 15\text{ m s}^{-1} \). The total resistive forces opposing the motion of the vehicle are \( 420\text{ N} \).

(a) Calculate the component of the vehicle's weight acting down the slope. (2 marks)

(b) Show that the engine must exert a forward force of approximately \( 1.6\text{ kN} \) to maintain this constant speed. (3 marks)

(c) Calculate the useful power output of the vehicle's engine as it climbs the hill. (3.75 marks)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) The component of weight acting down the slope is:
\( W_{\text{parallel}} = m g \sin\theta \)
\( W_{\text{parallel}} = 850\text{ kg} \times 9.81\text{ m s}^{-2} \times \sin(8.0^{\circ}) \)
\( W_{\text{parallel}} = 8338.5 \times 0.13917 \approx 1160.5\text{ N} \approx 1.16\text{ kN} \)

(b) Since the vehicle is moving at a constant speed, its acceleration is zero, and the net force along the slope must be zero.
Therefore, the forward force \( F \) exerted by the engine must balance both the component of the weight down the slope and the resistive forces \( R \):
\( F = W_{\text{parallel}} + R \)
\( F = 1160.5\text{ N} + 420\text{ N} = 1580.5\text{ N} \)
This is approximately \( 1.6\text{ kN} \).

(c) The useful power output \( P \) is given by:
\( P = F v \)
Using the calculated forward force:
\( P = 1580.5\text{ N} \times 15\text{ m s}^{-1} = 23707.5\text{ W} \approx 23.7\text{ kW} \)
To 2 significant figures, this is \( 24\text{ kW} \).

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a) [2 Marks]:
- MP1: Recalls and uses the component of weight parallel to the slope: \( W = mg \sin\theta \). (1)
- MP2: Calculates the correct weight component as \( 1160\text{ N} \) (or \( 1.16\text{ kN} \)). (1)

Part (b) [3 Marks]:
- MP1: States that because speed is constant, the acceleration is zero and the forces are balanced (net force = 0). (1)
- MP2: Formulates the equilibrium equation: \( F = mg\sin\theta + R \). (1)
- MP3: Substitutes values to obtain \( 1580.5\text{ N} \) and explicitly rounds to show it is \( \approx 1.6\text{ kN} \). (1)

Part (c) [3.75 Marks]:
- MP1: Recalls and uses \( P = F v \). (1)
- MP2: Substitutes the force (either \( 1580\text{ N} \) or \( 1600\text{ N} \)) and speed \( 15\text{ m s}^{-1} \). (1)
- MP3: Obtains a value of \( 2.37 \times 10^4\text{ W} \) (or \( 24\text{ kW} \)). (1)
- MP4: Quotes the final answer to 2 or 3 significant figures with correct units. (0.75)
PastPaper.question 16 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
8.75 PastPaper.marks
A solid cylinder of wood is placed in a large container of water. The cylinder has a cross-sectional area of \( 4.5 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m}^2 \) and a height of \( 0.25\text{ m} \). The density of water is \( 1000\text{ kg m}^{-3} \). The cylinder floats vertically with \( 0.18\text{ m} \) of its length submerged.

(a) Explain, in terms of liquid pressure, why an upthrust acts on the submerged part of the cylinder. (3 marks)

(b) Show that the upthrust acting on the wood cylinder is approximately \( 7.9\text{ N} \). (2 marks)

(c) Calculate the mass and the density of the wooden cylinder. (3.75 marks)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) Pressure in a fluid increases with depth according to the formula \( p = \rho g h \). The bottom face of the submerged cylinder is at a greater depth than its top face. This means the upward pressure on the bottom face is greater than the downward pressure on the top face. Since force is pressure times area, there is a greater upward force on the bottom face than the downward force on the top face, resulting in a net upward force, which is the upthrust.

(b) The volume of the submerged part of the cylinder is:
\( V_{\text{sub}} = A \times h_{\text{sub}} = 4.5 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m}^2 \times 0.18\text{ m} = 8.1 \times 10^{-4}\text{ m}^3 \)
By Archimedes' principle, the upthrust \( U \) is equal to the weight of the displaced water:
\( U = \rho_{\text{water}} V_{\text{sub}} g = 1000\text{ kg m}^{-3} \times 8.1 \times 10^{-4}\text{ m}^3 \times 9.81\text{ m s}^{-2} = 7.946\text{ N} \)
This is approximately \( 7.9\text{ N} \).

(c) Since the cylinder is floating in equilibrium, its weight \( W \) must equal the upthrust \( U \):
\( W = U \implies m g = 7.946\text{ N} \)
\( m = \frac{7.946}{9.81} = 0.81\text{ kg} \)

The total volume of the wooden cylinder is:
\( V_{\text{total}} = A \times h_{\text{total}} = 4.5 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m}^2 \times 0.25\text{ m} = 1.125 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m}^3 \)

The density of the wooden cylinder is:
\( \rho_{\text{wood}} = \frac{m}{V_{\text{total}}} = \frac{0.81\text{ kg}}{1.125 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m}^3} = 720\text{ kg m}^{-3} \)
(Alternatively, \( \rho_{\text{wood}} = \frac{h_{\text{sub}}}{h_{\text{total}}} \times \rho_{\text{water}} = \frac{0.18}{0.25} \times 1000 = 720\text{ kg m}^{-3} \))

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a) [3 Marks]:
- MP1: States that pressure in a fluid increases with depth (or quotes \( p = \rho g h \)). (1)
- MP2: Explains that the bottom of the cylinder is at a greater depth than the top, so experiences a greater pressure. (1)
- MP3: Connects pressure difference to a difference in force (since \( F = pA \)), resulting in a net upward force. (1)

Part (b) [2 Marks]:
- MP1: Calculates the submerged volume \( V_{\text{sub}} = 8.1 \times 10^{-4}\text{ m}^3 \). (1)
- MP2: Uses \( U = \rho V g \) to calculate the upthrust and states it is \( 7.946\text{ N} \) which rounds to \( 7.9\text{ N} \). (1)

Part (c) [3.75 Marks]:
- MP1: States that for floating, Weight = Upthrust. (1)
- MP2: Calculates the mass \( m = 0.81\text{ kg} \). (1)
- MP3: Calculates the total volume of the cylinder \( V_{\text{total}} = 1.125 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m}^3 \) (or uses ratio of heights). (1)
- MP4: Calculates the density as \( 720\text{ kg m}^{-3} \). (0.75)
PastPaper.question 17 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
8.75 PastPaper.marks
A block of mass \( m_1 = 2.4\text{ kg} \) sits on a rough horizontal table. It is connected by a light inextensible string passing over a frictionless pulley to a hanging mass \( m_2 = 1.5\text{ kg} \). A constant frictional force of \( 5.5\text{ N} \) opposes the motion of the block on the table. The system is released from rest.

(a) Sketch a free-body force diagram for each of the two masses, clearly labelling all forces. (3 marks)

(b) Write down the equations of motion for both masses, and calculate the acceleration of the system. (3.75 marks)

(c) Calculate the tension in the string during the motion. (2 marks)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) The free-body force diagrams should show:
- For the block on the table (\( m_1 \)):
1. Weight (\( W_1 = m_1 g \)) acting vertically downwards.
2. Normal contact force (\( R \) or \( N \)) acting vertically upwards.
3. Tension (\( T \)) acting horizontally to the right (towards the pulley).
4. Frictional force (\( f = 5.5\text{ N} \)) acting horizontally to the left (opposing motion).
- For the hanging mass (\( m_2 \)):
1. Weight (\( W_2 = m_2 g \)) acting vertically downwards.
2. Tension (\( T \)) acting vertically upwards.

(b) Writing down the equations of motion using Newton's Second Law (\( F_{\text{net}} = m a \)):
- For the block on the table (moving horizontally):
\( T - f = m_1 a \implies T - 5.5 = 2.4 a \quad \text{(Equation 1)} \)
- For the hanging mass (moving downwards):
\( m_2 g - T = m_2 a \implies 1.5 \times 9.81 - T = 1.5 a \implies 14.715 - T = 1.5 a \quad \text{(Equation 2)} \)

Adding Equation 1 and Equation 2 to eliminate \( T \):
\( (T - 5.5) + (14.715 - T) = 2.4 a + 1.5 a \)
\( 9.215 = 3.9 a \)
\( a = \frac{9.215}{3.9} \approx 2.363\text{ m s}^{-2} \approx 2.36\text{ m s}^{-2} \)

(c) To find the tension, substitute \( a \) back into Equation 1:
\( T = 5.5 + 2.4 a \)
\( T = 5.5 + 2.4(2.363) = 5.5 + 5.671 = 11.171\text{ N} \approx 11.2\text{ N} \)

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a) [3 Marks]:
- MP1: For block \( m_1 \), draws and labels Weight (down), Normal force (up), Tension (right), and Friction (left). (1.5)
- MP2: For hanging mass \( m_2 \), draws and labels Weight (down) and Tension (up). (1.5)

Part (b) [3.75 Marks]:
- MP1: Formulates equation of motion for \( m_1 \): \( T - f = m_1 a \). (1)
- MP2: Formulates equation of motion for \( m_2 \): \( m_2 g - T = m_2 a \). (1)
- MP3: Eliminates \( T \) algebraically to obtain an expression for \( a \). (1)
- MP4: Calculates acceleration \( a = 2.36\text{ m s}^{-2} \) (accept \( 2.4\text{ m s}^{-2} \)). (0.75)

Part (c) [2 Marks]:
- MP1: Substitutes the calculated acceleration into either equation of motion. (1)
- MP2: Correctly calculates Tension \( T = 11.2\text{ N} \) (accept \( 11.1\text{ N} \) to \( 11.3\text{ N} \)). (1)
PastPaper.question 18 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
8.75 PastPaper.marks
A polymer strip of unstretched length \( 0.40\text{ m} \) and uniform cross-sectional area \( 3.2 \times 10^{-5}\text{ m}^2 \) is subjected to a tensile test. The load-extension graph shows that the strip behaves elastically and obeys Hooke's law up to an extension of \( 8.0\text{ cm} \, where the applied load is \) 120\text{ N} \).

(a) Show that the stiffness (spring constant) of the polymer strip is \( 1500\text{ N m}^{-1} \). (2 marks)

(b) Calculate the work done in stretching the strip to an extension of \( 8.0\text{ cm} \). (3 marks)

(c) Calculate the elastic strain energy density (elastic strain energy per unit volume) of the polymer strip at this extension. (3.75 marks)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) Extension \( \Delta x = 8.0\text{ cm} = 0.080\text{ m} \).
According to Hooke's law:
\( F = k \Delta x \)
\( k = \frac{F}{\Delta x} = \frac{120\text{ N}}{0.080\text{ m}} = 1500\text{ N m}^{-1} \)

(b) The work done in stretching the strip is equal to the elastic strain energy stored in the strip. Since the material obeys Hooke's law, we can use:
\( W = \frac{1}{2} F \Delta x \)
\( W = \frac{1}{2} \times 120\text{ N} \times 0.080\text{ m} = 4.8\text{ J} \)
(Or using \( W = \frac{1}{2} k (\Delta x)^2 = 0.5 \times 1500 \times (0.080)^2 = 4.8\text{ J} \)).

(c) The volume \( V \) of the polymer strip is:
\( V = A \times L_0 = 3.2 \times 10^{-5}\text{ m}^2 \times 0.40\text{ m} = 1.28 \times 10^{-5}\text{ m}^3 \)

The elastic strain energy density \( U_{\text{density}} \) is:
\( U_{\text{density}} = \frac{\text{Elastic Strain Energy}}{\text{Volume}} \)
\( U_{\text{density}} = \frac{4.8\text{ J}}{1.28 \times 10^{-5}\text{ m}^3} = 3.75 \times 10^5\text{ J m}^{-3} \)

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a) [2 Marks]:
- MP1: Recalls and uses Hooke's Law \( F = k \Delta x \). (1)
- MP2: Converts \( 8.0\text{ cm} \) to \( 0.080\text{ m} \) and shows calculation yielding \( 1500\text{ N m}^{-1} \). (1)

Part (b) [3 Marks]:
- MP1: Recalls work done is area under force-extension graph or uses formula \( W = \frac{1}{2} F \Delta x \) or \( W = \frac{1}{2} k (\Delta x)^2 \). (1)
- MP2: Substitutes the correct values with \( \Delta x \) in meters. (1)
- MP3: Calculates the work done as \( 4.8\text{ J} \). (1)

Part (c) [3.75 Marks]:
- MP1: Recalls the volume formula \( V = A \times L \). (1)
- MP2: Calculates the volume of the strip as \( 1.28 \times 10^{-5}\text{ m}^3 \). (1)
- MP3: Divides energy by volume to find energy density. (1)
- MP4: Calculates the correct energy density as \( 3.75 \times 10^5\text{ J m}^{-3} \). (0.75)

PastPaper.section Unit 2: Waves and Electricity

Answer ALL questions. Section A comprises 10 multiple-choice questions. Section B comprises 8 structured and calculation questions.
18 PastPaper.question · 80 PastPaper.marks
PastPaper.question 1 · Multiple Choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A cell of e.m.f. \(E\) and internal resistance \(r\) is connected in series with a variable resistor of resistance \(R\). The value of \(R\) is gradually increased from a very low value. Which of the following correctly describes the changes to the terminal potential difference \(V\) across the cell and the power \(P\) dissipated in the internal resistance of the cell?
  1. A.\(V\) increases, \(P\) decreases
  2. B.\(V\) increases, \(P\) increases
  3. C.\(V\) decreases, \(P\) decreases
  4. D.\(V\) decreases, \(P\) increases
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The current in the circuit is given by \(I = \frac{E}{R+r}\). As \(R\) increases, the total resistance of the circuit increases, causing the current \(I\) to decrease. The terminal potential difference is given by \(V = E - Ir\). Since \(I\) decreases, the lost volts \(Ir\) decrease, and thus \(V\) increases. The power dissipated in the internal resistance is given by \(P = I^2 r\). Since \(I\) decreases, \(P\) decreases.

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for the correct option A. Correctly links the increase in load resistance to a decrease in current, which leads to a higher terminal potential difference and lower power dissipation in the internal resistance.
PastPaper.question 2 · Multiple Choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A monochromatic light source of frequency \(f\) is incident on a metal surface, causing photoelectrons to be emitted. The frequency of the light source is doubled while the intensity of the light is kept constant. Which of the following statements is correct regarding the maximum kinetic energy of the emitted photoelectrons and the rate of emission of photoelectrons?
  1. A.The maximum kinetic energy is doubled, and the rate of emission of photoelectrons is halved.
  2. B.The maximum kinetic energy is more than doubled, and the rate of emission of photoelectrons is halved.
  3. C.The maximum kinetic energy is more than doubled, and the rate of emission of photoelectrons is unchanged.
  4. D.The maximum kinetic energy is doubled, and the rate of emission of photoelectrons is unchanged.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

From the photoelectric equation, \(E_{k,\max} = hf - \phi\). Doubling the frequency gives \(E'_{k,\max} = 2hf - \phi = 2(E_{k,\max} + \phi) - \phi = 2E_{k,\max} + \phi\). Since the work function \(\phi > 0\), the maximum kinetic energy is more than doubled. Intensity is the energy incident per unit area per second, \(I = \frac{N h f}{A t}\). For constant intensity, doubling \(f\) halves the photon arrival rate \(\frac{N}{t}\), which halves the rate of photoelectron emission.

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for the correct option B. Correctly identifies that maximum kinetic energy is more than doubled due to the work function offset, and that keeping intensity constant while doubling frequency halves the photon arrival rate (and thus emission rate).
PastPaper.question 3 · Multiple Choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A copper wire of cross-sectional area \(A\) carries a current \(I\). The mean drift velocity of the conduction electrons in this wire is \(v\). A second copper wire of cross-sectional area \(2A\) carries a current of \(3I\). What is the mean drift velocity of the conduction electrons in the second wire?
  1. A.0.67v
  2. B.1.5v
  3. C.2.0v
  4. D.3.0v
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

Using the equation for drift velocity, \(I = nAve\), we have \(v = \frac{I}{nAe}\). For the second copper wire, the number density \(n\) is the same because the material is the same. The new drift velocity is \(v' = \frac{3I}{n(2A)e} = 1.5 \left(\frac{I}{nAe}\right) = 1.5v\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for the correct option B. Correctly uses \(I = nAve\) and applies the ratio of current to area to find the new drift velocity of \(1.5v\).
PastPaper.question 4 · Multiple Choice
1 PastPaper.marks
Unpolarized light of intensity \(I_0\) is incident on a polarizing filter. The light transmitted then passes through a second polarizing filter (the analyser). The transmission axis of the analyser is at an angle of \(60^\circ\) to the transmission axis of the first filter. What is the intensity of the light emerging from the analyser?
  1. A.0.125 \(I_0\)
  2. B.0.250 \(I_0\)
  3. C.0.375 \(I_0\)
  4. D.0.500 \(I_0\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

After passing through the first polarizing filter, the unpolarized light becomes plane-polarized and its intensity is halved to \(I_1 = 0.5 I_0\). When passing through the second filter, Malus's Law applies: \(I_2 = I_1 \cos^2(60^\circ) = 0.5 I_0 \times (0.5)^2 = 0.5 I_0 \times 0.25 = 0.125 I_0\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for the correct option A. Correctly applies the factor of 0.5 for the first unpolarized filter, and Malus's law with \(\cos^2(60^\circ)\) for the second filter.
PastPaper.question 5 · Multiple Choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A light ray is incident on the boundary between two transparent media, X and Y. The refractive index of medium X is \(n_X = 1.62\) and the refractive index of medium Y is \(n_Y = 1.33\). Which of the following statements is correct regarding total internal reflection (TIR) at this boundary?
  1. A.TIR can only occur when light travels from medium Y to medium X, with a critical angle of 55.2°.
  2. B.TIR can only occur when light travels from medium X to medium Y, with a critical angle of 55.2°.
  3. C.TIR can only occur when light travels from medium Y to medium X, with a critical angle of 34.8°.
  4. D.TIR can only occur when light travels from medium X to medium Y, with a critical angle of 34.8°.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

Total internal reflection can only occur when light travels from a medium with a higher refractive index to a medium with a lower refractive index. Therefore, light must travel from X to Y. The critical angle is calculated using \(\sin\theta_c = \frac{n_{\text{less}}}{n_{\text{more}}} = \frac{1.33}{1.62} \approx 0.8210\), which gives \(\theta_c = \arcsin(0.8210) \approx 55.2^\circ\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for the correct option B. Correctly identifies the path from higher to lower refractive index and calculates the critical angle as \(55.2^\circ\).
PastPaper.question 6 · Multiple Choice
1 PastPaper.marks
As the potential difference across a filament lamp is increased from zero, the temperature of its metal filament increases. Which of the following correctly describes how the resistance of the filament and the gradient of the current-potential difference (\(I-V\)) graph change?
  1. A.Resistance of filament: Increases; Gradient of \(I-V\) graph: Increases
  2. B.Resistance of filament: Increases; Gradient of \(I-V\) graph: Decreases
  3. C.Resistance of filament: Decreases; Gradient of \(I-V\) graph: Increases
  4. D.Resistance of filament: Decreases; Gradient of \(I-V\) graph: Decreases
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

As temperature increases, the lattice ions in the metal vibrate with greater amplitude, increasing the rate of collisions with conduction electrons. This causes the resistance to increase. Since resistance \(R = \frac{V}{I}\) increases, the ratio \(\frac{I}{V}\) (and thus the gradient \(\frac{dI}{dV}\) of the \(I-V\) graph) decreases.

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for the correct option B. Correctly determines that resistance of a metal filament increases with temperature and that the gradient of its \(I-V\) graph decreases.
PastPaper.question 7 · Multiple Choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A stationary wave is set up on a stretched string of length \(L\) fixed at both ends. The string is vibrating in its third harmonic. Which of the following statements is correct?
  1. A.There are 3 nodes and 4 antinodes on the string.
  2. B.The wavelength of the progressive waves forming this stationary wave is \(\frac{2}{3}L\).
  3. C.The distance between adjacent nodes is \(\frac{2}{3}L\).
  4. D.All vibrating points on the string are in phase with one another.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

In the third harmonic, the string forms three half-wavelength loops. Thus, \(L = 3 \left(\frac{\lambda}{2}\right)\), which gives \(\lambda = \frac{2}{3}L\). Statement A is incorrect because there are 4 nodes and 3 antinodes. Statement C is incorrect because adjacent nodes are separated by \(\frac{\lambda}{2} = \frac{1}{3}L\). Statement D is incorrect because adjacent loops are out of phase by \(180^\circ\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for the correct option B. Deduces that the length is equal to 1.5 wavelengths for the third harmonic and solves for \(\lambda\).
PastPaper.question 8 · Multiple Choice
1 PastPaper.marks
Monochromatic light of wavelength \(\lambda\) is incident normally on a diffraction grating with slit spacing \(d\). A second-order diffraction maximum is observed at an angle of \(30^\circ\) to the normal. At what angle to the normal is the first-order diffraction maximum observed?
  1. A.7.5°
  2. B.14.5°
  3. C.15.0°
  4. D.22.0°
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

Using the grating equation \(d \sin\theta = n \lambda\), for the second-order maximum (\(n = 2\)): \(d \sin(30^\circ) = 2\lambda \implies 0.5 d = 2\lambda \implies \lambda = 0.25 d\). For the first-order maximum (\(n = 1\)): \(d \sin\theta_1 = 1\lambda \implies d \sin\theta_1 = 0.25 d \implies \sin\theta_1 = 0.25\). Therefore, \( \theta_1 = \arcsin(0.25) \approx 14.5^\circ \).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for the correct option B. Correctly applies the diffraction grating equation for both orders and uses the ratio to find the angle of the first-order maximum as \(14.5^\circ\).
PastPaper.question 9 · Multiple Choice
1 PastPaper.marks
Two cylindrical copper wires, P and Q, are connected in series in a DC circuit. Wire P has a length \(L\) and radius \(r\). Wire Q has a length \(2L\) and radius \(2r\).

What is the ratio of the drift velocity of conduction electrons in wire P to that in wire Q, \(\frac{v_{\text{P}}}{v_{\text{Q}}}\)?
  1. A.0.25
  2. B.0.5
  3. C.2
  4. D.4
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The current \(I\) in both wires is the same because they are connected in series.

The relationship between current and drift velocity is given by \(I = nAvq\), where:
- \(n\) is the number density of conduction electrons (which is the same for both wires as they are made of the same material, copper),
- \(A\) is the cross-sectional area of the wire,
- \(v\) is the drift velocity of the conduction electrons,
- \(q\) is the elementary charge.

Since \(I_{\text{P}} = I_{\text{Q}}\):
\(n A_{\text{P}} v_{\text{P}} q = n A_{\text{Q}} v_{\text{Q}} q\)

Therefore:
\(A_{\text{P}} v_{\text{P}} = A_{\text{Q}} v_{\text{Q}}\)

Rearranging for the ratio of the drift velocities:
\(\frac{v_{\text{P}}}{v_{\text{Q}}} = \frac{A_{\text{Q}}}{A_{\text{P}}}\)

Since the cross-sectional area is given by \(A = \pi r^2\):
\(\frac{v_{\text{P}}}{v_{\text{Q}}} = \frac{\pi (2r)^2}{\pi r^2} = \frac{4\pi r^2}{\pi r^2} = 4\)

PastPaper.markingScheme

D is the correct answer.

- Correctly identifies that current \(I\) is constant across series components.
- Correctly applies \(I = nAvq\) and the area of a circle relation to find the ratio is 4.
PastPaper.question 10 · Multiple Choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A wire of length \(0.80\text{ m}\) is held under tension and fixed at both ends. The wire is made to oscillate so that a stationary wave is formed in its third harmonic. The frequency of the oscillation is \(120\text{ Hz}\).

What is the speed of the transverse waves on the wire?
  1. A.32\text{ m s}^{-1}
  2. B.48\text{ m s}^{-1}
  3. C.64\text{ m s}^{-1}
  4. D.96\text{ m s}^{-1}
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

For a wire fixed at both ends, a stationary wave in the third harmonic consists of three loops (half-wavelengths) along its length \(L\).

Therefore, we can write:
\(L = 3 \left(\frac{\lambda}{2}\right) = 1.5\lambda\)

Rearranging to find the wavelength \(\lambda\):
\(\lambda = \frac{2L}{3} = \frac{2 \times 0.80\text{ m}}{3} = \frac{1.60}{3}\text{ m} \approx 0.533\text{ m}\)

Using the wave equation \(v = f\lambda\):
\(v = 120\text{ Hz} \times \frac{1.60}{3}\text{ m} = 40 \times 1.60 = 64\text{ m s}^{-1}\)

PastPaper.markingScheme

C is the correct answer.

- Identifies that for the third harmonic, \(\lambda = \frac{2L}{3}\).
- Calculates the wave speed using \(v = f\lambda\) to arrive at \(64\text{ m s}^{-1}\).
PastPaper.question 11 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
8.75 PastPaper.marks
A student sets up a circuit to monitor the temperature of an oven. The circuit consists of a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) thermistor, a fixed resistor of resistance \(R_f = 150\ \Omega\), and a power supply with an electromotive force (emf) \(E = 3.00\text{ V}\) and internal resistance \(r = 2.50\ \Omega\) connected in series.

(a) State what is meant by the electromotive force (emf) of a power supply.

(b) At a temperature of \(20.0^\circ\text{C}\), the resistance of the thermistor is \(450\ \Omega\). Calculate the potential difference across the thermistor at this temperature.

(c) The temperature of the oven is increased. State and explain the effect of this increase on the potential difference across the fixed resistor.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) Electromotive force (emf) is the total energy transferred by a source of electricity per unit charge that passes through it, or the work done per unit charge in driving charge around a complete circuit.

(b) First, calculate the total resistance of the series circuit:
\(R_{\text{total}} = R_{\text{thermistor}} + R_f + r = 450\ \Omega + 150\ \Omega + 2.50\ \Omega = 602.5\ \Omega\)

Then, calculate the current in the circuit:
\(I = \frac{E}{R_{\text{total}}} = \frac{3.00\text{ V}}{602.5\ \Omega} \approx 4.979 \times 10^{-3}\text{ A}\)

Now, calculate the potential difference across the thermistor (\(V_{\text{thermistor}}\)):
\(V_{\text{thermistor}} = I \times R_{\text{thermistor}} = (4.979 \times 10^{-3}\text{ A}) \times 450\ \Omega \approx 2.24\text{ V}\)

(c) As temperature increases, the resistance of the NTC thermistor decreases. This decreases the total resistance of the circuit, causing the current in the circuit to increase. Since the potential difference across the fixed resistor is given by \(V_f = I \times R_f\), and \(R_f\) is constant, the increase in current results in an increase in the potential difference across the fixed resistor.

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a):
- MP1: Energy transferred per unit charge (or work done per unit charge) [1 mark]
- MP2: From chemical/other forms to electrical energy (or around a complete circuit) [1 mark]

Part (b):
- MP1: Employs \(R_{\text{total}} = R_{\text{thermistor}} + R_f + r\) to find \(R_{\text{total}} = 602.5\ \Omega\) [1 mark]
- MP2: Calculates the current \(I = 3.00 / 602.5 = 4.98 \times 10^{-3}\text{ A}\) [1 mark]
- MP3: Uses \(V = IR\) with the thermistor resistance [1 mark]
- MP4: Correct final value of \(2.24\text{ V}\) (allow \(2.2\text{ V}\) to \(2.25\text{ V}\)) [1 mark]

Part (c):
- MP1: States that resistance of thermistor decreases as temperature increases [1 mark]
- MP2: Explains that total resistance decreases, so current in circuit increases [1 mark]
- MP3: Concludes that potential difference across the fixed resistor increases [0.75 marks]
PastPaper.question 12 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
8.75 PastPaper.marks
A semi-circular glass block is immersed in a liquid. A ray of monochromatic light with wavelength \(\lambda_0 = 589\text{ nm}\) in a vacuum is directed through the glass towards the flat boundary. The speed of this light in the glass is \(1.92 \times 10^8\text{ m s}^{-1}\) and in the surrounding liquid is \(2.25 \times 10^8\text{ m s}^{-1}\).

(a) Show that the refractive index of the glass relative to the liquid is approximately \(1.17\).

(b) Calculate the critical angle for light travelling from the glass into the liquid.

(c) Calculate the wavelength of this light while it is travelling through the glass.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) The refractive index of glass (\(n_{\text{glass}}\)) relative to a vacuum is:
\(n_{\text{glass}} = \frac{c}{v_{\text{glass}}} = \frac{3.00 \times 10^8\text{ m s}^{-1}}{1.92 \times 10^8\text{ m s}^{-1}} = 1.5625\)

The refractive index of liquid (\(n_{\text{liquid}}\)) relative to a vacuum is:
\(n_{\text{liquid}} = \frac{c}{v_{\text{liquid}}} = \frac{3.00 \times 10^8\text{ m s}^{-1}}{2.25 \times 10^8\text{ m s}^{-1}} = 1.3333\)

The refractive index of glass relative to the liquid (\(_{\text{liquid}}n_{\text{glass}}\)) is:
\(_{\text{liquid}}n_{\text{glass}} = \frac{n_{\text{glass}}}{n_{\text{liquid}}} = \frac{v_{\text{liquid}}}{v_{\text{glass}}} = \frac{2.25 \times 10^8\text{ m s}^{-1}}{1.92 \times 10^8\text{ m s}^{-1}} \approx 1.172\)

(b) Total internal reflection can occur when light travels from a denser medium (glass) to a less dense medium (liquid). The critical angle \(\theta_c\) is given by:
\(\sin \theta_c = \frac{n_{\text{liquid}}}{n_{\text{glass}}} = \frac{v_{\text{glass}}}{v_{\text{liquid}}} = \frac{1}{1.172} \approx 0.8533\)

\(\theta_c = \sin^{-1}(0.8533) \approx 58.6^\circ\)

(c) The frequency of the light remains constant in all media:
\(f = \frac{c}{\lambda_0} = \frac{3.00 \times 10^8\text{ m s}^{-1}}{589 \times 10^{-9}\text{ m}} \approx 5.093 \times 10^{14}\text{ Hz}\)

The wavelength in glass (\(\lambda_{\text{glass}}\)) is given by:
\(\lambda_{\text{glass}} = \frac{v_{\text{glass}}}{f} = \frac{1.92 \times 10^8\text{ m s}^{-1}}{5.093 \times 10^{14}\text{ Hz}} \approx 3.77 \times 10^{-7}\text{ m}\) (or \(377\text{ nm}\)).
Alternatively, using refractive index:
\(\lambda_{\text{glass}} = \frac{\lambda_0}{n_{\text{glass}}} = \frac{589\text{ nm}}{1.5625} \approx 377\text{ nm}\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a):
- MP1: Recalls relationship between refractive index and wave speed \(n = \frac{c}{v}\) or \(n_{\text{rel}} = \frac{v_1}{v_2}\) [1 mark]
- MP2: Correct substitution of values: \(\frac{2.25 \times 10^8}{1.92 \times 10^8}\) [1 mark]
- MP3: Obtains value 1.17 (at least 3 s.f. shown as 1.172) [1 mark]

Part (b):
- MP1: Recalls \(\sin \theta_c = \frac{1}{n}\) or \(\sin \theta_c = \frac{v_1}{v_2}\) [1 mark]
- MP2: Correct substitution of values \(\sin \theta_c = \frac{1.92 \times 10^8}{2.25 \times 10^8}\) [1 mark]
- MP3: Correct calculation of \(\theta_c = 58.6^\circ\) (allow \(58.5^\circ\) to \(59.0^\circ\)) [1 mark]

Part (c):
- MP1: Recalls that frequency remains constant or uses \(\lambda_{\text{glass}} = \frac{\lambda_0}{n_{\text{glass}}}\) [1 mark]
- MP2: Calculates \(n_{\text{glass}} = 1.56\) or \(f = 5.09 \times 10^{14}\text{ Hz}\) [1 mark]
- MP3: Correct final value of \(\lambda_{\text{glass}} = 3.77 \times 10^{-7}\text{ m}\) (or \(377\text{ nm}\)) [0.75 marks]
PastPaper.question 13 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
8.75 PastPaper.marks
A steel guitar string of length \(L = 0.650\text{ m}\) and mass per unit length \(\mu = 4.25 \times 10^{-3}\text{ kg m}^{-1}\) is fixed at both ends and kept under tension.

(a) Describe how a standing wave is formed on the guitar string when it is plucked.

(b) The string is tuned to play a fundamental frequency of \(196\text{ Hz}\). Calculate the tension \(T\) in the string.

(c) State and explain how the fundamental frequency of the string would change if the temperature of the room rises, assuming the material of the string expands slightly.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) When the string is plucked, a progressive wave travels along the string and is reflected at both of the fixed ends. The incident wave and the reflected wave, which have the same frequency, wavelength, and amplitude, travel in opposite directions and superpose (interfere). At points of constructive interference (where waves meet in phase), antinodes with maximum amplitude are formed. At points of destructive interference (where waves meet in antiphase), nodes with zero amplitude are formed, resulting in a standing wave.

(b) For the fundamental frequency, the length of the string \(L\) is equal to half a wavelength:
\(L = \frac{\lambda}{2} \implies \lambda = 2L = 2 \times 0.650\text{ m} = 1.30\text{ m}\)

The wave speed \(v\) is:
\(v = f \lambda = 196\text{ Hz} \times 1.30\text{ m} = 254.8\text{ m s}^{-1}\)

The formula for wave speed on a stretched string is:
\(v = \sqrt{\frac{T}{\mu}}\)

Squaring both sides and solving for tension \(T\):
\(T = v^2 \mu = (254.8\text{ m s}^{-1})^2 \times 4.25 \times 10^{-3}\text{ kg m}^{-1} \approx 276\text{ N}\)

(c) If the temperature rises, the string expands and becomes slightly slack, meaning the tension \(T\) in the string decreases. Since the wave speed \(v = \sqrt{\frac{T}{\mu}}\), a decrease in tension results in a lower wave speed. Because \(f_0 = \frac{v}{2L}\), and the increase in length \(L\) is extremely small while the decrease in \(T\) is more dominant, the fundamental frequency \(f_0\) decreases.

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a):
- MP1: Wave is reflected at the fixed ends (creating two waves travelling in opposite directions) [1 mark]
- MP2: Opposing waves superpose / interfere (having same frequency and wavelength) [1 mark]
- MP3: Describes node formation (destructive interference) and antinode formation (constructive interference) [1 mark]

Part (b):
- MP1: Identifies \(\lambda = 2L = 1.30\text{ m}\) [1 mark]
- MP2: Calculates wave speed \(v = f \lambda = 254.8\text{ m s}^{-1}\) [1 mark]
- MP3: Recalls \(v = \sqrt{\frac{T}{\mu}}\) and rearranges to \(T = v^2 \mu\) [1 mark]
- MP4: Correct calculation of \(T = 276\text{ N}\) (allow \(275\text{ N}\) to \(277\text{ N}\)) [1 mark]

Part (c):
- MP1: Identifies that higher temperature causes the string to expand, leading to decreased tension [1 mark]
- MP2: Links decrease in tension to a decrease in wave speed, hence lower fundamental frequency [0.75 marks]
PastPaper.question 14 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
8.75 PastPaper.marks
Ultraviolet light with a frequency of \(7.45 \times 10^{14}\text{ Hz}\) is shone onto a potassium plate. The work function of potassium is \(2.30\text{ eV}\).

(a) Calculate the energy of a single photon of this light, giving your answer in electronvolts (eV).

(b) Calculate the maximum velocity of the emitted photoelectrons.

(c) The intensity of the incident ultraviolet light is doubled while keeping the frequency constant. Explain the effect of this change on the number of photoelectrons emitted per second and on their maximum kinetic energy.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) The energy of a photon \(E_p\) is given by:
\(E_p = h f = (6.63 \times 10^{-34}\text{ J s}) \times (7.45 \times 10^{14}\text{ Hz}) = 4.939 \times 10^{-19}\text{ J}\)

To convert this energy into electronvolts:
\(E_p = \frac{4.939 \times 10^{-19}\text{ J}}{1.60 \times 10^{-19}\text{ J eV}^{-1}} \approx 3.09\text{ eV}\)

(b) Using Einstein's photoelectric equation:
\(h f = \Phi + E_{\text{k,max}}\)

Rearranging for maximum kinetic energy \(E_{\text{k,max}}\):
\(E_{\text{k,max}} = h f - \Phi = 3.09\text{ eV} - 2.30\text{ eV} = 0.79\text{ eV}\)

Convert \(E_{\text{k,max}}\) back to joules:
\(E_{\text{k,max}} = 0.79\text{ eV} \times 1.60 \times 10^{-19}\text{ J eV}^{-1} = 1.264 \times 10^{-19}\text{ J}\)

Since \(E_{\text{k,max}} = \frac{1}{2} m_e v_{\text{max}}^2\):
\(v_{\text{max}} = \sqrt{\frac{2 E_{\text{k,max}}}{m_e}} = \sqrt{\frac{2 \times 1.264 \times 10^{-19}\text{ J}}{9.11 \times 10^{-31}\text{ kg}}} \approx 5.27 \times 10^5\text{ m s}^{-1}\)

(c) Doubling the intensity of the light means there are twice as many photons incident on the plate per second. Since one photon interacts with one electron, the number of photoelectrons emitted per second doubles. However, the maximum kinetic energy of the emitted photoelectrons depends only on the photon energy (frequency) and the work function, so the maximum kinetic energy remains unchanged.

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a):
- MP1: Recalls \(E = hf\) and substitutes values correctly [1 mark]
- MP2: Divides energy in joules by \(1.60 \times 10^{-19}\) to convert to eV [1 mark]
- MP3: Obtains \(3.09\text{ eV}\) (allow \(3.08\text{ eV}\) to \(3.10\text{ eV}\)) [1 mark]

Part (b):
- MP1: Recalls \(E_{\text{k,max}} = hf - \Phi\) and calculates \(E_{\text{k,max}} = 0.79\text{ eV}\) [1 mark]
- MP2: Converts \(E_{\text{k,max}}\) to Joules (\(1.26 \times 10^{-19}\text{ J}\)) [1 mark]
- MP3: Uses \(E_{\text{k,max}} = \frac{1}{2} m v^2\) to find velocity [1 mark]
- MP4: Obtains \(v_{\text{max}} = 5.27 \times 10^5\text{ m s}^{-1}\) (allow \(5.2 \times 10^5\) to \(5.3 \times 10^5\text{ m s}^{-1}\)) [1 mark]

Part (c):
- MP1: States that the number of photoelectrons emitted per second doubles because more photons arrive per second [1 mark]
- MP2: States that the maximum kinetic energy remains constant because photon energy (frequency) does not change [0.75 marks]
PastPaper.question 15 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
8.75 PastPaper.marks
A copper wire of circular cross-section with a diameter of \(0.800\text{ mm}\) carries a current of \(3.50\text{ A}\). The number density of conduction electrons in copper is \(8.50 \times 10^{28}\text{ m}^{-3}\).

(a) Show that the cross-sectional area of the wire is approximately \(5.0 \times 10^{-7}\text{ m}^2\).

(b) Calculate the drift velocity of the conduction electrons in this wire.

(c) A second copper wire of the same length but twice the diameter is connected in series with the first wire. Compare the drift velocity of the electrons in this second wire with that in the first wire.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) The radius \(r\) of the wire is half the diameter:
\(r = \frac{0.800\text{ mm}}{2} = 0.400\text{ mm} = 4.00 \times 10^{-4}\text{ m}\)

The cross-sectional area \(A\) is:
\(A = \pi r^2 = \pi (4.00 \times 10^{-4}\text{ m})^2 \approx 5.027 \times 10^{-7}\text{ m}^2\)

(b) The current \(I\) is related to drift velocity \(v\) by:
\(I = n A v q\)

Rearranging for \(v\):
\(v = \frac{I}{n A q}\)

Substitute the known values (where \(q = e = 1.60 \times 10^{-19}\text{ C}\)):
\(v = \frac{3.50\text{ A}}{(8.50 \times 10^{28}\text{ m}^{-3}) \times (5.027 \times 10^{-7}\text{ m}^2) \times (1.60 \times 10^{-19}\text{ C})} \approx 5.12 \times 10^{-4}\text{ m s}^{-1}\)

(c) Since the wires are connected in series, the current \(I\) is the same in both wires. The materials are both copper, so the electron density \(n\) is also the same. The area is proportional to the square of the diameter (\(A \propto d^2\)). If the diameter is doubled, the cross-sectional area increases by a factor of 4. Since \(v = \frac{I}{nAq}\), drift velocity \(v\) is inversely proportional to cross-sectional area \(A\). Therefore, the drift velocity in the second wire is \(\frac{1}{4}\) (or \(0.25\) times) of the drift velocity in the first wire, which is \(1.28 \times 10^{-4}\text{ m s}^{-1}\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a):
- MP1: Finds radius \(r = 0.400 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m}\) [1 mark]
- MP2: Uses \(A = \pi r^2\) to calculate area [1 mark]
- MP3: Correct calculation showing \(5.03 \times 10^{-7}\text{ m}^2\) (must show at least 3 s.f.) [1 mark]

Part (b):
- MP1: Recalls \(I = nAvq\) [1 mark]
- MP2: Correct substitution with \(q = 1.60 \times 10^{-19}\text{ C}\) [1 mark]
- MP3: Correct calculation of \(v = 5.12 \times 10^{-4}\text{ m s}^{-1}\) (allow \(5.1 \times 10^{-4}\) to \(5.2 \times 10^{-4}\text{ m s}^{-1}\)) [1 mark]

Part (c):
- MP1: States that current \(I\) and electron density \(n\) are identical in both wires because they are in series and of same material [1 mark]
- MP2: Explains that doubling the diameter increases the area by a factor of 4 [1 mark]
- MP3: Concludes that the drift velocity becomes one-quarter (0.25 times) of the initial value [0.75 marks]
PastPaper.question 16 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
8.75 PastPaper.marks
In a double-slit experiment, monochromatic light from a laser is incident on two narrow parallel slits that are separated by a distance of \(0.180\text{ mm}\). A pattern of bright and dark fringes is observed on a screen placed parallel to the slits at a distance of \(1.50\text{ m}\). The distance between the central bright fringe and the third-order bright fringe is found to be \(1.60\text{ cm}\).

(a) Determine the wavelength of the laser light.

(b) Explain, in terms of path difference and phase difference, how the first dark fringe next to the central bright fringe is formed.

(c) Describe how the interference pattern changes if the double-slit spacing is decreased.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) The distance from the central fringe to the third-order bright fringe (\(m = 3\)) is \(y_3 = 1.60\text{ cm} = 1.60 \times 10^{-2}\text{ m}\).

Therefore, the fringe spacing (separation between adjacent bright fringes), \(x\), is:
\(x = \frac{y_3}{3} = \frac{1.60 \times 10^{-2}\text{ m}}{3} \approx 5.333 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m}\)

Using the double-slit formula:
\(x = \frac{\lambda D}{d}\)

Rearranging for wavelength \(\lambda\):
\(\lambda = \frac{x d}{D} = \frac{(5.333 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m}) \times (0.180 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m})}{1.50\text{ m}} \approx 6.40 \times 10^{-7}\text{ m}\) (or \(640\text{ nm}\)).

(b) The first dark fringe is formed where destructive interference occurs. For this to happen, the path difference from the two slits to this point on the screen must be exactly half a wavelength (\(\frac{\lambda}{2}\)). This causes the waves arriving from the two slits to meet in antiphase (phase difference of \(\pi\text{ radians}\) or \(180^\circ\)), so they cancel each other out.

(c) According to \(x = \frac{\lambda D}{d}\), the fringe spacing \(x\) is inversely proportional to the slit spacing \(d\). Therefore, if \(d\) is decreased, the fringe spacing \(x\) increases (the fringes become wider and more spread out). The intensity of the fringes remains the same, but the pattern is more spaced out.

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a):
- MP1: Calculates fringe spacing \(x = \frac{1.60 \times 10^{-2}}{3} = 5.33 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m}\) [1 mark]
- MP2: Recalls \(x = \frac{\lambda D}{d}\) and rearranges to \(\lambda = \frac{xd}{D}\) [1 mark]
- MP3: Correct calculation of \(\lambda = 6.40 \times 10^{-7}\text{ m}\) (or \(640\text{ nm}\)) [1 mark]

Part (b):
- MP1: Mentions destructive interference [1 mark]
- MP2: Explains that the path difference is half a wavelength (\(\frac{\lambda}{2}\)) [1 mark]
- MP3: Explains that the phase difference is \(\pi\text{ rad}\) or \(180^\circ\) (or waves meet in antiphase) [0.75 marks]

Part (c):
- MP1: States that the fringe spacing \(x\) increases [1 mark]
- MP2: Justifies this using \(x \propto \frac{1}{d}\) [1 mark]
PastPaper.question 17 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
8.75 PastPaper.marks
An electrical circuit includes a potential divider used to monitor light intensity. The circuit consists of a light-dependent resistor (LDR) connected in series with a fixed resistor of resistance \(R = 2.20\text{ k}\Omega\) and a stable power supply of emf \(V_{\text{in}} = 9.00\text{ V}\) with negligible internal resistance. The output voltage \(V_{\text{out}}\) is measured across the LDR.

(a) In bright light, the resistance of the LDR is \(350\ \Omega\). Calculate the output voltage \(V_{\text{out}}\) in these conditions.

(b) In low light levels, the output voltage \(V_{\text{out}}\) rises to \(6.50\text{ V}\). Calculate the resistance of the LDR in these conditions.

(c) Explain how this circuit could be used as part of an automatic light control system to turn a street light on when it gets dark.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) The total resistance of the series combination in bright light is:
\(R_{\text{total}} = R_{\text{LDR}} + R = 350\ \Omega + 2200\ \Omega = 2550\ \Omega\)

Using the potential divider equation:
\(V_{\text{out}} = V_{\text{in}} \times \frac{R_{\text{LDR}}}{R_{\text{total}}} = 9.00\text{ V} \times \frac{350\ \Omega}{2550\ \Omega} \approx 1.24\text{ V}\)

(b) When \(V_{\text{out}} = 6.50\text{ V}\), the potential difference across the fixed resistor \(V_R\) is:
\(V_R = V_{\text{in}} - V_{\text{out}} = 9.00\text{ V} - 6.50\text{ V} = 2.50\text{ V}\)

The current \(I\) in the circuit is:
\(I = \frac{V_R}{R} = \frac{2.50\text{ V}}{2200\ \Omega} \approx 1.136 \times 10^{-3}\text{ A}\)

The resistance of the LDR (\(R_{\text{LDR}}\)) is:
\(R_{\text{LDR}} = \frac{V_{\text{out}}}{I} = \frac{6.50\text{ V}}{1.136 \times 10^{-3}\text{ A}} \approx 5.72 \times 10^3\ \Omega\) (or \(5.72\text{ k}\Omega\)).

Alternatively, using the ratio method:
\(\frac{V_{\text{out}}}{V_{\text{in}}} = \frac{R_{\text{LDR}}}{R_{\text{LDR}} + R} \implies \frac{6.50}{9.00} = \frac{R_{\text{LDR}}}{R_{\text{LDR}} + 2200}\)

\(6.50 R_{\text{LDR}} + 14300 = 9.00 R_{\text{LDR}} \implies 2.50 R_{\text{LDR}} = 14300 \implies R_{\text{LDR}} = 5720\ \Omega\).

(c) When it gets dark, the light intensity decreases, which causes the resistance of the LDR to increase. Because the LDR resistance increases, the output voltage \(V_{\text{out}}\) across the LDR increases. This high voltage signal can be fed into an electronic switch (or electromagnetic relay) that turns the street light on once the potential difference exceeds a preset threshold.

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a):
- MP1: Correct conversion of \(2.20\text{ k}\Omega\) to \(2200\ \Omega\) [1 mark]
- MP2: Recalls potential divider equation or calculates current [1 mark]
- MP3: Correct calculation of \(V_{\text{out}} = 1.24\text{ V}\) (allow \(1.2\text{ V}\) to \(1.3\text{ V}\)) [1 mark]

Part (b):
- MP1: Finds voltage across fixed resistor \(V_R = 2.50\text{ V}\) [1 mark]
- MP2: Finds current \(I = 1.14\text{ mA}\) or sets up the ratio equation correctly [1 mark]
- MP3: Correct substitution and calculation of \(R_{\text{LDR}} = 5720\ \Omega\) (or \(5.72\text{ k}\Omega\)) [1.75 marks]

Part (c):
- MP1: Explains that resistance of LDR increases in the dark, so output voltage \(V_{\text{out}}\) increases [1 mark]
- MP2: States that this high voltage can trigger a switch/relay to turn the light on [1 mark]
PastPaper.question 18 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
8.75 PastPaper.marks
A beam of unpolarised light of intensity \(I_0 = 360\text{ W m}^{-2}\) is incident on a linear polarising filter, \(P_1\). The transmitted light then passes through a second polarising filter, \(P_2\).

(a) Explain why transverse waves can be polarised, whereas longitudinal waves cannot.

(b) The transmission axis of \(P_2\) is initially oriented at an angle of \(30.0^\circ\) to that of \(P_1\). Calculate the intensity of the light transmitted through \(P_2\).

(c) Filter \(P_2\) is now rotated so that its transmission axis is at \(90.0^\circ\) to \(P_1\). A third polarising filter, \(P_3\), is placed between \(P_1\) and \(P_2\) with its transmission axis at \(45.0^\circ\) to both \(P_1\) and \(P_2\). Determine whether any light is transmitted through \(P_2\), and calculate its intensity if it is.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) Transverse waves have oscillations that are perpendicular to the direction of energy transfer (or wave propagation). Since these oscillations can occur in any direction within a plane perpendicular to the wave direction, a polariser can restrict these oscillations to a single plane. Longitudinal waves have oscillations parallel to the direction of energy transfer. Since there is only one direction of oscillation, it cannot be restricted to a single plane perpendicular to the direction of propagation, hence they cannot be polarised.

(b) When unpolarised light passes through the first filter \(P_1\), its intensity is halved:
\(I_1 = \frac{I_0}{2} = \frac{360\text{ W m}^{-2}}{2} = 180\text{ W m}^{-2}\)

According to Malus's Law, the intensity transmitted through the second filter \(P_2\) is:
\(I_2 = I_1 \cos^2 \theta = 180\text{ W m}^{-2} \times \cos^2(30.0^\circ)\)

Since \(\cos(30.0^\circ) = \frac{\sqrt{3}}{2}\), then \(\cos^2(30.0^\circ) = 0.75\).
\(I_2 = 180 \times 0.75 = 135\text{ W m}^{-2}\)

(c) Yes, light is transmitted. When \(P_3\) is introduced at \(45.0^\circ\) between \(P_1\) and \(P_2\):

1. The intensity after \(P_3\) is:
\(I_3 = I_1 \cos^2(45.0^\circ) = 180\text{ W m}^{-2} \times (0.7071)^2 = 180 \times 0.50 = 90.0\text{ W m}^{-2}\)

2. The light incident on \(P_2\) is now polarised at \(45.0^\circ\) to \(P_2\)'s axis. The intensity after \(P_2\) is:
\(I_{\text{final}} = I_3 \cos^2(45.0^\circ) = 90.0\text{ W m}^{-2} \times 0.50 = 45.0\text{ W m}^{-2}\)

Therefore, light is transmitted with an intensity of \(45.0\text{ W m}^{-2}\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a):
- MP1: States that transverse waves oscillate perpendicular to the direction of wave travel, while longitudinal waves oscillate parallel to it [1 mark]
- MP2: Defines polarisation as restricting oscillations to a single direction/plane perpendicular to energy transfer [1 mark]
- MP3: Explains that because longitudinal oscillations are already restricted to the direction of travel, they cannot be further polarised [1 mark]

Part (b):
- MP1: States that the first polariser halves the intensity (\(I_1 = 180\text{ W m}^{-2}\)) [1 mark]
- MP2: Recalls Malus's Law \(I_2 = I_1 \cos^2 \theta\) [1 mark]
- MP3: Correct calculation of \(I_2 = 135\text{ W m}^{-2}\) [1 mark]

Part (c):
- MP1: Identifies that adding \(P_3\) means light is now transmitted through \(P_2\) [1 mark]
- MP2: Calculates the intensity after the third polariser \(I_3 = 90\text{ W m}^{-2}\) [1 mark]
- MP3: Correct final intensity of \(45.0\text{ W m}^{-2}\) after the second polariser [0.75 marks]

PastPaper.section Unit 3: Practical Skills in Physics I

Answer ALL questions. Comprises 4 practical skills design, analysis, and evaluation questions.
4 PastPaper.question · 50 PastPaper.marks
PastPaper.question 1 · Practical Investigation and Evaluation
12 PastPaper.marks
A student is to determine the acceleration of free fall \(g\) by measuring the time \(t\) taken for a steel sphere to fall a distance \(h\) from rest.

(a) Draw a labeled diagram of the experimental setup showing how the sphere is held and released, and how the time of fall is measured. (3)

(b) State the measurements that must be made to determine \(g\), and identify the measuring instruments used for each measurement. (3)

(c) Explain how a graph of \(h\) against \(t^2\) can be used to find an accurate value for \(g\). (4)

(d) Suggest one systematic error that could occur in this experiment and describe how its effect can be minimized. (2)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

*(a) Experimental Setup:*
The apparatus should be arranged with a steel sphere suspended from an electromagnet. The electromagnet is connected to a low-voltage power supply and a double-pole switch, which simultaneously cuts current to the electromagnet and starts an electronic timer (or digital millisecond counter). A trapdoor is positioned at the bottom of the fall. When the sphere hits the trapdoor, it opens the circuit, stopping the timer.

*(b) Measurements and Instruments:*
1. The distance of fall, \(h\), is measured from the bottom of the sphere (while suspended) to the top of the trapdoor. This distance is measured using a metre rule (precision \(\pm 1\text{ mm}\)).
2. The time of fall, \(t\), is measured from the moment the electromagnet releases the ball until it hits the trapdoor. This is measured directly by the electronic millisecond timer.

*(c) Graphical Analysis:*
Since the sphere falls from rest under gravity, the SUVAT equation applies: \(s = ut + \frac{1}{2}at^2\). With \(u = 0\), \(s = h\), and \(a = g\), we obtain:
\(h = \frac{1}{2}gt^2\)
This is in the linear form \(y = mx + c\), where \(y = h\), \(x = t^2\), \(c = 0\), and the gradient \(m = \frac{1}{2}g\).
Therefore, a graph of \(h\) against \(t^2\) is plotted. A line of best fit is drawn, and its gradient is determined. The acceleration of free fall is calculated as:
\(g = 2 \times \text{gradient}\)

*(d) Systematic Error and Mitigation:*
One potential systematic error is the delay in the release of the steel ball from the electromagnet due to residual magnetism (remanence). This causes the timer to start slightly before the ball actually begins to fall, resulting in an overestimated time \(t\) and an underestimated \(g\).
To minimize this systematic error, the current in the electromagnet should be reduced to the minimum value that is just sufficient to support the weight of the steel sphere. Alternatively, a small piece of non-magnetic paper or tape can be placed over the pole of the electromagnet to act as a spacer.

PastPaper.markingScheme

(a) Diagram [3 Marks]:
- MP1: Electromagnet connected to a power supply/switch and a digital timer. [1]
- MP2: Steel sphere shown suspended beneath the electromagnet. [1]
- MP3: Trapdoor (or light gate at the bottom) connected to the stop input of the timer. [1]

(b) Measurements and Instruments [3 Marks]:
- MP1: Height/distance of fall \(h\) measured using a metre rule. [1]
- MP2: Time of fall \(t\) measured using an electronic timer or millisecond counter. [1]
- MP3: Measure \(h\) from the bottom of the sphere (when suspended) to the top of the trapdoor to ensure accuracy of distance. [1]

(c) Graphical Analysis [4 Marks]:
- MP1: Identifies the equation of motion: \(h = \frac{1}{2}gt^2\). [1]
- MP2: States that a graph of \(h\) (y-axis) against \(t^2\) (x-axis) is plotted. [1]
- MP3: States that the graph should be a straight line through the origin. [1]
- MP4: Explains that the gradient is determined, and \(g = 2 \times \text{gradient}\). [1]

(d) Systematic Error [2 Marks]:
- MP1: Identifies a valid systematic error (e.g., residual magnetism delaying the release of the sphere, or air resistance, or delay in the trapdoor mechanism). [1]
- MP2: Offers a correct corresponding mitigation (e.g., use the minimum current required to hold the ball/use a non-magnetic spacer; or use a dense steel sphere to make air resistance negligible; or calibrate the trapdoor delay). [1]
PastPaper.question 2 · Practical Investigation and Evaluation
13 PastPaper.marks
A student is to determine the Young modulus \(E\) of a metal wire.

(a) Draw a labeled diagram of the experimental apparatus that can be used to carry out this investigation in a school laboratory. (3)

(b) State two safety precautions that must be taken when performing this experiment, explaining the reason for each. (2)

(c) Describe the measurements that must be taken, specifying the instrument used for each, and how the student should ensure that these measurements are as accurate as possible. (4)

(d) Explain how a graph can be used to determine a value for the Young modulus \(E\). Identify the quantities that should be plotted on each axis and how the gradient is used to find \(E\). (4)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

*(a) Experimental Apparatus:*
The wire is clamped firmly at one end of a long, horizontal bench. It passes over a pulley at the other end, and a mass hanger is attached to its free end. A small marker (such as a piece of tape or paper flag) is taped to the wire near a fixed metre rule on the bench.

*(b) Safety Precautions:*
1. Wear safety goggles to protect the eyes from injury if the wire snaps under high tension.
2. Place a box containing sand or a soft cushion directly underneath the suspended masses to catch them when the wire breaks, preventing injury to feet and damage to the floor.

*(c) Measurements and Accuracy:*
1. **Original length \(L\)**: Measured from the clamp to the marker using a metre rule (precision \(\pm 1\text{ mm}\)). Ensure the wire is straight by applying a small preparatory load before measuring.
2. **Diameter \(d\)**: Measured using a micrometer screw gauge (precision \(\pm 0.01\text{ mm}\)). To ensure accuracy, measure at 3 to 5 different positions along the wire and in two perpendicular directions at each position to account for non-circular cross-section, then find the average.
3. **Applied force \(F\)**: Calculated from the added masses using \(F = mg\).
4. **Extension \(e\)**: Measured by noting the position of the marker relative to the fixed metre rule as masses are added. To ensure accuracy, read the ruler at eye level to avoid parallax error.

*(d) Graphical Analysis:*
The Young modulus is given by:
\(E = \frac{\text{Stress}}{\text{Strain}} = \frac{F / A}{e / L} = \frac{FL}{Ae}\)
where \(A = \frac{\pi d^2}{4}\) is the cross-sectional area.
If we plot a graph of applied force \(F\) (y-axis) against extension \(e\) (x-axis), the linear region representing elastic deformation will be a straight line through the origin. The gradient of this line is:
\(\text{gradient} = \frac{F}{e}\)
Thus, the Young modulus can be calculated as:
\(E = \text{gradient} \times \frac{L}{A}\)
Alternatively, plotting stress against strain gives a line of gradient \(E\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

(a) Diagram [3 Marks]:
- MP1: Long horizontal wire clamped at one end of a bench and passing over a pulley at the other end. [1]
- MP2: Masses/mass hanger suspended from the free end of the wire. [1]
- MP3: Marker attached to the wire near a fixed metre rule. [1]

(b) Safety Precautions [2 Marks]:
- MP1: Wearing safety goggles to protect eyes in case the wire snaps. [1]
- MP2: Placing a sand tray/soft cushion under the masses to protect feet/floor if the wire breaks. [1]

(c) Measurements and Accuracy [4 Marks]:
- MP1: Original length \(L\) from clamp to marker measured with a metre rule, ensuring the wire is straight using a small initial load. [1]
- MP2: Diameter \(d\) measured with a micrometer screw gauge in several places and orientations, and averaged. [1]
- MP3: Extension \(e\) determined by reading the marker's position against the metre rule at eye level (to avoid parallax). [1]
- MP4: Force \(F\) calculated using \(F = mg\), where masses are added in equal increments. [1]

(d) Graphical Analysis [4 Marks]:
- MP1: Correctly states the Young modulus formula: \(E = \frac{FL}{Ae}\). [1]
- MP2: Identifies plotting a graph of force \(F\) (y-axis) against extension \(e\) (x-axis) (or stress against strain). [1]
- MP3: Explains that the cross-sectional area \(A\) is calculated using \(A = \frac{\pi d^2}{4}\). [1]
- MP4: Explains that \(E = \text{gradient} \times \frac{L}{A}\) where the gradient is \(\frac{F}{e}\) (or \(E = \text{gradient}\) if stress-strain is plotted). [1]
PastPaper.question 3 · Practical Investigation and Evaluation
12 PastPaper.marks
A student is to determine the electromotive force (EMF) \(\varepsilon\) and internal resistance \(r\) of a chemical cell.

(a) Draw a circuit diagram that can be used to obtain the necessary measurements for this experiment. (3)

(b) Describe how the student would carry out the experiment to obtain a range of readings for current \(I\) and terminal potential difference \(V\). (3)

(c) Explain how a graph of \(V\) against \(I\) can be used to determine the values of \(\varepsilon\) and \(r\). (3)

(d) Discuss why using a variable resistor with a low range (e.g., \(0 - 10\ \Omega\)) is preferred to one with a very high range (e.g., \(0 - 10\text{ k}\Omega\)) when investigating a cell with an expected internal resistance of around \(1.5\ \Omega\). (3)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

*(a) Circuit Diagram:*
The circuit must consist of the cell under test in series with an ammeter, a variable resistor (rheostat), and a switch. A voltmeter must be connected in parallel across the terminals of the cell to measure the terminal potential difference.

*(b) Experimental Procedure:*
1. Assemble the circuit and close the switch.
2. Adjust the variable resistor to its maximum resistance to keep the initial current low, and record the current \(I\) from the ammeter and terminal potential difference \(V\) from the voltmeter.
3. Decrease the resistance of the variable resistor in steps to obtain a minimum of 6 different sets of readings of \(I\) and \(V\).
4. Crucially, open the switch between readings to prevent the cell from discharging unnecessarily and to stop current from heating the cell, as temperature changes will alter the internal resistance.

*(c) Graphical Analysis:*
The terminal potential difference \(V\) is related to the EMF \(\varepsilon\) and current \(I\) by the equation:
\(V = \varepsilon - Ir\)
Rearranging this into the form of a straight line (\(y = mx + c\)):
\(V = -rI + \varepsilon\)
By plotting terminal potential difference \(V\) on the y-axis against current \(I\) on the x-axis, we obtain a straight line with a negative gradient.
- The y-intercept of the line is equal to the EMF, \(\varepsilon\).
- The magnitude of the gradient of the line is equal to the internal resistance, \(r\).

*(d) Discussion of Variable Resistor Range:*
The internal resistance of the cell is approximately \(1.5\ \Omega\). If a high-range variable resistor (such as \(0 - 10\text{ k}\Omega\)) is used, the total resistance of the circuit will be dominated by the variable resistor for almost all settings. Consequently, the current in the circuit will be extremely small (on the order of microamperes or milliamperes), and the voltmeter will read almost exactly the EMF \(\varepsilon\) for nearly all settings. The data points on a graph of \(V\) against \(I\) will be bunched very tightly near \(I = 0\), making it impossible to draw an accurate line of best fit.
Using a low-range variable resistor (\(0 - 10\ \Omega\)) allows the load resistance to be of a similar magnitude to the internal resistance, producing a wide and well-distributed range of current values, resulting in an accurate determination of the gradient and intercept.

PastPaper.markingScheme

(a) Circuit Diagram [3 Marks]:
- MP1: Cell, ammeter, variable resistor, and switch connected in a single series loop. [1]
- MP2: Voltmeter connected in parallel across the cell. [1]
- MP3: Correct circuit symbols used for all components (especially cell, variable resistor with diagonal arrow). [1]

(b) Experimental Procedure [3 Marks]:
- MP1: Adjust the variable resistor to vary the resistance and thereby change the current in the circuit. [1]
- MP2: Record at least 6 corresponding readings of current \(I\) and potential difference \(V\). [1]
- MP3: State that the switch must be opened between readings to avoid heating of the cell/internal resistance changing. [1]

(c) Graphical Analysis [3 Marks]:
- MP1: State the equation \(V = -rI + \varepsilon\). [1]
- MP2: Plot \(V\) on the y-axis against \(I\) on the x-axis to obtain a straight line. [1]
- MP3: State that the y-intercept represents the EMF \(\varepsilon\) and the magnitude of the gradient is equal to the internal resistance \(r\). [1]

(d) Variable Resistor Range [3 Marks]:
- MP1: Explain that a high-range variable resistor results in extremely small currents for most settings. [1]
- MP2: Explain that this causes voltmeter readings to be nearly constant (close to \(\varepsilon\)), causing data points to bunch together near the y-axis. [1]
- MP3: Explain that a low-range variable resistor (\(0 - 10\ \Omega\)) ensures that the external resistance is comparable to the internal resistance, leading to a wide, usable range of current and potential difference values. [1]
PastPaper.question 4 · Practical Investigation and Evaluation
13 PastPaper.marks
A student is to determine the wavelength \(\lambda\) of a monochromatic laser light using a diffraction grating.

(a) Draw a labeled diagram of the experimental arrangement showing the laser, the diffraction grating, and the screen where the diffraction pattern is observed. (3)

(b) State the safety precaution that must be taken when using a laser in this experiment. (1)

(c) Describe the measurements that must be taken to determine the angle \(\theta\) of the first-order diffraction maximum. State the instruments used for these measurements. (4)

(d) Explain how the number of lines per millimetre, \(N\), of the grating is used to calculate the slit separation \(d\). (2)

(e) Explain how the accuracy of the calculated wavelength can be improved by measuring higher-order maxima and plotting a suitable graph. Describe the graph and how \(\lambda\) is found from its gradient. (3)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

*(a) Experimental Arrangement:*
The laser is placed on a level surface, aligned to shine a horizontal beam perpendicular to the face of a diffraction grating mounted in a holder. A screen is positioned some distance away, perpendicular to the incident beam. The screen shows a bright central maximum (zeroth order, \(n = 0\)) and symmetric bright spots on both sides representing higher orders (\(n = 1\), \(n = 2\), etc.).

*(b) Safety Precaution:*
Never look directly into the laser beam or its reflection, as intense laser light can cause permanent retinal damage. Ensure there are no reflective surfaces (such as watches or jewelry) in the path of the beam, and set up a warning sign 'Laser in Use'.

*(c) Measurements and Instruments:*
1. **Distance from grating to screen, \(D\)**: Measured using a metre rule (precision \(\pm 1\text{ mm}\)) along the line perpendicular to both the grating and the screen.
2. **Distance from central maximum to first-order maximum, \(x\)**: Measured using a metre rule or digital calipers. To maximize accuracy, measure the total distance between the two first-order maxima on opposite sides of the central spot (\(2x\)) and divide by 2. This reduces the uncertainty and eliminates any potential off-center error.
3. **Calculation of \(\theta\)**: The angle \(\theta\) is calculated using the trigonometry relation:
\(\theta = \tan^{-1}\left(\frac{x}{D}\right)\)

*(d) Slit Separation \(d\):*
The number of lines per millimetre, \(N\), represents the number of slits per millimeter of grating length. Thus, the slit separation \(d\) is the distance between adjacent slits:
\(d = \frac{1\text{ mm}}{N} = \frac{10^{-3}\text{ m}}{N}\)

*(e) Improving Accuracy with Graphical Analysis:*
The grating equation is:
\(d\sin\theta = n\lambda\)
where \(n\) is the order of the diffraction maximum. Rearranging this gives:
\(\sin\theta = n\left(\frac{\lambda}{d}\right)\)
By measuring the diffraction angle \(\theta\) for multiple orders (e.g., \(n = 1\, 2\, 3\)), the student can plot a graph with \(\sin\theta\) on the y-axis against the order \(n\) on the x-axis.
- The graph should be a straight line passing through the origin.
- The gradient of the line is equal to \(\frac{\lambda}{d\)}.
- Therefore, the wavelength is calculated as:
\(\lambda = \text{gradient} \times d\)
Using multiple data points and a graph averages out random experimental errors in measuring individual distances, providing a much more reliable and accurate value for the wavelength than a single-point calculation.

PastPaper.markingScheme

(a) Diagram [3 Marks]:
- MP1: Laser, diffraction grating, and screen aligned in a straight path. [1]
- MP2: Grating aligned perpendicular to the incident laser beam, and screen showing symmetric spots around a central bright spot. [1]
- MP3: Distance \(D\) from grating to screen and distance \(x\) from central maximum to first-order maximum labeled clearly. [1]

(b) Safety Precaution [1 Mark]:
- MP1: Do not stare directly into the laser beam / avoid placing reflective objects in the beam path. [1]

(c) Measurements [4 Marks]:
- MP1: Measure the perpendicular distance \(D\) from grating to screen using a metre rule. [1]
- MP2: Measure the distance \(2x\) between the symmetric first-order maxima on both sides of the central maximum. [1]
- MP3: State that measuring \(2x\) and dividing by 2 improves accuracy / reduces centering and zero-point errors. [1]
- MP4: Calculate the angle \(\theta\) using \(\theta = \tan^{-1}(x/D)\). [1]

(d) Slit Separation [2 Marks]:
- MP1: Explain that slit separation \(d\) is the reciprocal of the number of lines per unit length: \(d = 1/N\). [1]
- MP2: Express \(d\) in metres by converting millimetres to metres, yielding \(d = \frac{10^{-3}}{N}\). [1]

(e) Graphical Analysis [3 Marks]:
- MP1: Rearrange the grating equation to \(\sin\theta = n\frac{\lambda}{d}\). [1]
- MP2: State that a graph of \(\sin\theta\) (y-axis) against order \(n\) (x-axis) is plotted. [1]
- MP3: State that the gradient is \(\frac{\lambda}{d}\), so \(\lambda = \text{gradient} \times d\), which reduces random errors. [1]

PastPaper.section Unit 4: Further Mechanics, Fields and Particles

Answer ALL questions. Section A comprises 10 multiple-choice questions. Section B comprises 12 structured and calculation questions.
22 PastPaper.question · 90.04000000000002 PastPaper.marks
PastPaper.question 1 · Multiple Choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A small sphere of mass \(m\) is attached to a light inextensible string of length \(L\) and moves in a vertical circle. At the lowest point of its path, the sphere has speed \(v\). Which of the following expressions gives the tension in the string at this point?
  1. A.\(T = \frac{mv^2}{L} - mg\)
  2. B.\(T = \frac{mv^2}{L} + mg\)
  3. C.\(T = mg - \frac{mv^2}{L}\)
  4. D.\(T = \frac{mv^2}{L}\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

At the lowest point of the circular path, the forces acting on the sphere are the tension \(T\) pulling vertically upwards and the weight \(mg\) acting vertically downwards.

The net force acting towards the center of the circle provides the centripetal acceleration:
\(F_{\text{net}} = T - mg = \frac{mv^2}{L}\)

Rearranging for tension \(T\):
\(T = \frac{mv^2}{L} + mg\)

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark: Correctly identifies the centripetal force equation at the bottom of the loop and solves for tension.
PastPaper.question 2 · Multiple Choice
1 PastPaper.marks
An object of mass \(3m\) travelling with velocity \(u\) collides head-on and elastically with a stationary object of mass \(m\). What are the velocities of the two objects after the collision?
  1. A.Velocity of \(3m\) is \(0.25u\); velocity of \(m\) is \(1.25u\)
  2. B.Velocity of \(3m\) is \(0.50u\); velocity of \(m\) is \(1.50u\)
  3. C.Velocity of \(3m\) is \(0.75u\); velocity of \(m\) is \(0.75u\)
  4. D.Velocity of \(3m\) is \(0\); velocity of \(m\) is \(3.00u\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

Let \(v_1\) be the final velocity of the \(3m\) mass and \(v_2\) be the final velocity of the \(m\) mass.

From conservation of linear momentum:
\(3mu + 0 = 3mv_1 + mv_2 \implies 3u = 3v_1 + v_2\)

For an elastic collision, the relative speed of approach equals the relative speed of separation:
\(u = v_2 - v_1 \implies v_2 = u + v_1\)

Substituting this into the momentum equation:
\(3u = 3v_1 + (u + v_1)\)
\(2u = 4v_1 \implies v_1 = 0.50u\)

Now, solving for \(v_2\):
\(v_2 = u + 0.50u = 1.50u\)

Thus, the velocity of the mass \(3m\) is \(0.50u\) and the velocity of the mass \(m\) is \(1.50u\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark: Correct application of conservation of momentum and relative speed equations to obtain the final velocities.
PastPaper.question 3 · Multiple Choice
1 PastPaper.marks
Two parallel metal plates are separated by a distance \(d\) in a vacuum. A potential difference \(V\) is applied across the plates. A small sphere of mass \(m\) and charge \(+q\) is suspended by a thread between the plates and is in equilibrium at an angle \(\theta\) to the vertical. Which of the following expressions is correct for \(\theta\)?
  1. A.\(\tan\theta = \frac{qV}{mgd}\)
  2. B.\(\tan\theta = \frac{mgd}{qV}\)
  3. C.\(\sin\theta = \frac{qV}{mgd}\)
  4. D.\(\tan\theta = \frac{qVd}{mg}\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The electric field between the plates is given by:
\(E = \frac{V}{d}\)

The horizontal electric force acting on the charge is:
\(F_e = qE = \frac{qV}{d}\)

The vertical force acting on the charge is its weight:
\(W = mg\)

In equilibrium, the thread tension \(T\) balances these forces:
\(T \sin\theta = F_e = \frac{qV}{d}\)
\(T \cos\theta = mg\)

Dividing these equations:
\(\tan\theta = \frac{qV}{mgd}\)

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark: Correct derivation of the expression for \(\tan\theta\) from the horizontal and vertical forces.
PastPaper.question 4 · Multiple Choice
1 PastPaper.marks
An electron of mass \(m\) and charge \(e\) enters a uniform magnetic field of flux density \(B\) at right angles to the field with a kinetic energy \(E_k\). What is the radius \(r\) of the circular path of the electron in the magnetic field?
  1. A.\(r = \frac{\sqrt{m E_k}}{Be}\)
  2. B.\(r = \frac{\sqrt{2 m E_k}}{Be}\)
  3. C.\(r = \frac{2 m E_k}{Be}\)
  4. D.\(r = \frac{\sqrt{2 m E_k}}{B^2 e}\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The magnetic force provides the required centripetal force:
\(B e v = \frac{m v^2}{r} \implies r = \frac{m v}{B e}\)

Since kinetic energy is \(E_k = \frac{1}{2} m v^2\), the momentum \(p\) of the electron is:
\(p = m v = \sqrt{2 m E_k}\)

Substituting \(mv\) into the radius equation:
\(r = \frac{\sqrt{2 m E_k}}{B e}\)

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark: Correctly relates kinetic energy and momentum, then substitutes into the circular motion equation.
PastPaper.question 5 · Multiple Choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A capacitor of capacitance \(C\) is fully charged to a potential difference \(V_0\). It is then discharged through a resistor of resistance \(R\). After a time \(t = 2RC\), what fraction of the initial energy stored in the capacitor remains?
  1. A.\(e^{-2}\)
  2. B.\(e^{-4}\)
  3. C.\(1 - e^{-2}\)
  4. D.\(1 - e^{-4}\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The potential difference \(V\) across the discharging capacitor decays exponentially:
\(V = V_0 e^{-\frac{t}{RC}}\)

At time \(t = 2RC\):
\(V = V_0 e^{-\frac{2RC}{RC}} = V_0 e^{-2}\)

The energy stored in a capacitor is proportional to the square of its potential difference:
\(W = \frac{1}{2} C V^2\)

Substituting the expression for \(V\):
\(W = \frac{1}{2} C (V_0 e^{-2})^2 = \frac{1}{2} C V_0^2 e^{-4} = W_0 e^{-4}\)

Thus, the fraction of initial energy remaining is \(e^{-4}\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark: Uses the exponential decay equation for voltage and squares it to find the fraction of remaining energy.
PastPaper.question 6 · Multiple Choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A square coil of wire with side length \(s\) and \(N\) turns is placed in a uniform magnetic field of flux density \(B\), so that the plane of the coil is perpendicular to the magnetic field. The coil is rotated through \(90^\circ\) about an axis in its plane in a time interval \(\Delta t\). What is the average electromotive force (e.m.f.) induced in the coil?
  1. A.\(\frac{B s^2}{\Delta t}\)
  2. B.\(\frac{N B s}{\Delta t}\)
  3. C.\(\frac{N B s^2}{\Delta t}\)
  4. D.\(\frac{2 N B s^2}{\Delta t}\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

Faraday's law states that the induced e.m.f. is equal to the rate of change of magnetic flux linkage:
\(\mathcal{E} = \frac{\Delta (N\Phi)}{\Delta t}\)

Initially, the plane of the coil is perpendicular to the magnetic field, so the initial flux linkage is:
\(N\Phi_i = N B A = N B s^2\)

After a \(90^\circ\) rotation, the plane of the coil is parallel to the magnetic field lines, so the final flux linkage is:
\(N\Phi_f = 0\)

The change in flux linkage is:
\(\Delta (N\Phi) = N B s^2\)

The average induced e.m.f. is:
\(\mathcal{E} = \frac{N B s^2}{\Delta t}\)

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark: Correctly identifies the initial and final flux linkage to calculate the rate of change of flux linkage.
PastPaper.question 7 · Multiple Choice
1 PastPaper.marks
Which of the following statements correctly describes a baryon?
  1. A.A hadron composed of a quark and an antiquark.
  2. B.A fundamental particle with a lepton number of zero.
  3. C.A hadron composed of three quarks.
  4. D.A fundamental particle that does not experience the strong nuclear force.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

By definition, a baryon is a type of hadron (a composite particle made of quarks) that consists of three quarks. Mesons consist of a quark and an antiquark. Leptons are fundamental particles.

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark: Identifies that a baryon is a hadron made of three quarks.
PastPaper.question 8 · Multiple Choice
1 PastPaper.marks
In a particle interaction, a neutron decays via the weak interaction. The decay equation is:

$$\text{n} \rightarrow \text{p} + \text{e}^- + \overline{\nu}_\text{e}$$

Which conservation laws are obeyed in this decay?
  1. A.Baryon number and lepton number only
  2. B.Baryon number and charge only
  3. C.Lepton number and charge only
  4. D.Baryon number, lepton number, and charge
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

Let's check each conservation law:
1. **Baryon Number (\(B\))**:
- Before: \(1\) (neutron)
- After: \(1 + 0 + 0 = 1\) (proton, electron, electron antineutrino)
- Conserved.

2. **Lepton Number (\(L\))**:
- Before: \(0\)
- After: \(0 + 1 + (-1) = 0\)
- Conserved.

3. **Charge (\(Q\))**:
- Before: \(0\)
- After: \(+1 + (-1) + 0 = 0\)
- Conserved.

Therefore, baryon number, lepton number, and charge are all conserved.

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark: Correctly identifies that baryon number, lepton number, and charge are all conserved in the given decay equation.
PastPaper.question 9 · multiple-choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A small coin is placed at a distance \( r \) from the centre of a horizontal turntable. The turntable rotates at a constant angular velocity \( \omega \) and the coin is on the verge of sliding. The angular velocity of the turntable is increased to \( 3\omega \). For the coin to remain on the verge of sliding, its distance from the centre of the turntable must be changed to:
  1. A.\( \frac{r}{9} \)
  2. B.\( \frac{r}{3} \)
  3. C.\( 3r \)
  4. D.\( 9r \)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The maximum static frictional force provides the centripetal force and is given by \( F = m \omega^2 r \). Since the mass of the coin and the coefficient of friction between the coin and the turntable are constant, the maximum static frictional force remains constant. Therefore, we can write the relation: \( \omega_1^2 r_1 = \omega_2^2 r_2 \). Given that the new angular velocity is \( \omega_2 = 3\omega \) and the initial distance is \( r_1 = r \), we substitute these into the equation: \( \omega^2 r = (3\omega)^2 r_2 \). This simplifies to \( \omega^2 r = 9\omega^2 r_2 \). Solving for the new distance gives \( r_2 = \frac{r}{9} \).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for the correct answer A. Reject all other options as they do not correctly apply the inverse-square relationship between distance and angular velocity for a constant centripetal force.
PastPaper.question 10 · multiple-choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A capacitor of capacitance \( C \) is charged to a potential difference \( V \), storing energy \( E \). It is then disconnected from the power supply and connected in parallel with an uncharged capacitor of capacitance \( 2C \). What is the total electrical energy stored by the two capacitors after they are connected?
  1. A.\( \frac{E}{9} \)
  2. B.\( \frac{E}{3} \)
  3. C.\( \frac{E}{2} \)
  4. D.\( \frac{2E}{3} \)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The initial charge on the capacitor is \( Q = C V \). The initial energy stored is given by \( E = \frac{Q^2}{2C} \). When connected in parallel with an uncharged capacitor of capacitance \( 2C \), the total capacitance of the system becomes \( C_{\text{total}} = C + 2C = 3C \). Since the system is isolated from any external power supply, the total charge \( Q \) is conserved and remains the same. The new total energy stored in the system is \( E_{\text{final}} = \frac{Q^2}{2 C_{\text{total}}} = \frac{Q^2}{2(3C)} = \frac{1}{3} \left( \frac{Q^2}{2C} \right) = \frac{E}{3} \).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for the correct answer B. Reject other options as they either assume potential difference is conserved (which would lead to incorrect energy calculations) or apply incorrect scaling factors.
PastPaper.question 11 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
6.67 PastPaper.marks
An ion thruster on a deep-space probe of mass \(850\text{ kg}\) provides a continuous thrust of \(0.092\text{ N}\). The probe is travelling in a circular orbit of radius \(1.2 \times 10^7\text{ m}\) around a planet of mass \(4.8 \times 10^{23}\text{ kg}\).

(a) Calculate the speed of the probe in this orbit.

(b) Explain whether the thruster must be active to maintain this circular path.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) For a circular orbit, the gravitational force provides the centripetal force:

\(\frac{G M m}{r^2} = \frac{m v^2}{r}\)

Rearranging for orbital speed \(v\):

\(v = \sqrt{\frac{G M}{r}}\)

Substitute the given values into the equation:

\(v = \sqrt{\frac{6.67 \times 10^{-11}\text{ N m}^2\text{ kg}^{-2} \times 4.8 \times 10^{23}\text{ kg}}{1.2 \times 10^7\text{ m}}}\)

\(v = \sqrt{\frac{3.2016 \times 10^{13}}{1.2 \times 10^7}} = \sqrt{2.668 \times 10^6}\)

\(v \approx 1.63 \times 10^3\text{ m s}^{-1}\) (or \(1630\text{ m s}^{-1}\))

(b) The thruster is not necessary to maintain this circular path. Gravity acts perpendicular to the velocity of the probe. It provides the required centripetal acceleration to continuously change the direction of motion without changing the speed. No work is done by the gravitational force, so no fuel consumption or thrust is needed to stay in this stable orbit.

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a) [4 Marks]:
- [M1] Use of \(F_g = F_c\) or \(\frac{G M m}{r^2} = \frac{m v^2}{r}\) leading to \(v = \sqrt{\frac{G M}{r}}\).
- [M1] Correct substitution of \(G\), \(M\), and \(r\).
- [A1] Correct calculation of speed value (\(1.63 \times 10^3\text{ m s}^{-1}\) or \(1630\text{ m s}^{-1}\)).
- [A1] Correct units (\ ext{m s}^{-1}\) and appropriate 2 or 3 sig figs.

Part (b) [2.67 Marks]:
- [M1] Explains that gravity is perpendicular to the direction of motion / velocity.
- [A1] Explains that gravity provides the full centripetal acceleration / force.
- [A0.67] Concludes that no work is done on the probe (so no thrust is needed to maintain this constant speed orbit).
PastPaper.question 12 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
6.67 PastPaper.marks
A proton of mass \(1.67 \times 10^{-27}\text{ kg}\) moving at \(3.50 \times 10^5\text{ m s}^{-1}\) along the positive x-axis collides with a stationary target nucleus of mass \(1.13 \times 10^{-26}\text{ kg}\).

After the collision, the proton is deflected by \(60.0^\circ\) above the positive x-axis with a speed of \(2.10 \times 10^5\text{ m s}^{-1}\).

Calculate the magnitude of the final velocity of the target nucleus.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

By conservation of linear momentum, both horizontal (x-axis) and vertical (y-axis) momentum must be conserved.

Initial momentum of the system:
\(p_{ix} = m_p v_{pi} = (1.67 \times 10^{-27}\text{ kg}) \times (3.50 \times 10^5\text{ m s}^{-1}) = 5.845 \times 10^{-22}\text{ kg m s}^{-1}\)
\(p_{iy} = 0\)

Final momentum of the proton:
\(p_{px} = m_p v_{pf} \cos(60^\circ) = (1.67 \times 10^{-27}\text{ kg}) \times (2.10 \times 10^5\text{ m s}^{-1}) \times 0.5 = 1.7535 \times 10^{-22}\text{ kg m s}^{-1}\)
\(p_{py} = m_p v_{pf} \sin(60^\circ) = (1.67 \times 10^{-27}\text{ kg}) \times (2.10 \times 10^5\text{ m s}^{-1}) \times \sin(60^\circ) = 3.0371 \times 10^{-22}\text{ kg m s}^{-1}\)

By conservation of momentum, for the target nucleus (t):
\(p_{tx} = p_{ix} - p_{px} = (5.845 - 1.7535) \times 10^{-22}\text{ kg m s}^{-1} = 4.0915 \times 10^{-22}\text{ kg m s}^{-1}\)
\(p_{ty} = p_{iy} - p_{py} = -3.0371 \times 10^{-22}\text{ kg m s}^{-1}\)

Calculate the total magnitude of the target nucleus's momentum:
\(p_t = \sqrt{p_{tx}^2 + p_{ty}^2} = \sqrt{(4.0915 \times 10^{-22})^2 + (-3.0371 \times 10^{-22})^2}\)
\(p_t = 10^{-22} \times \sqrt{16.740 + 9.224} = 10^{-22} \times \sqrt{25.964} = 5.0955 \times 10^{-22}\text{ kg m s}^{-1}\)

Now, calculate the final velocity of the target nucleus:
\(v_t = \frac{p_t}{m_t} = \frac{5.0955 \times 10^{-22}\text{ kg m s}^{-1}}{1.13 \times 10^{-26}\text{ kg}} \approx 4.51 \times 10^4\text{ m s}^{-1}\)

PastPaper.markingScheme

- [M1] Statement of conservation of momentum in both x and y directions.
- [M1] Correct calculation of initial x-momentum (\(5.85 \times 10^{-22}\text{ kg m s}^{-1}\)).
- [M1] Correct components of final proton momentum (\(p_{px} = 1.75 \times 10^{-22}\text{ kg m s}^{-1}\) and \(p_{py} = 3.04 \times 10^{-22}\text{ kg m s}^{-1}\)).
- [M1] Calculation of target nucleus momentum components (\(p_{tx} = 4.09 \times 10^{-22}\text{ kg m s}^{-1}\) and \(p_{ty} = -3.04 \times 10^{-22}\text{ kg m s}^{-1}\)).
- [A1] Correct magnitude of target nucleus momentum (\(5.10 \times 10^{-22}\text{ kg m s}^{-1}\)).
- [A1.67] Correct final speed of target nucleus with appropriate unit (\(4.51 \times 10^4\text{ m s}^{-1}\)).
PastPaper.question 13 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
6.67 PastPaper.marks
Two horizontal parallel metal plates are separated by a distance of \(1.8\text{ cm}\) in a vacuum. A potential difference of \(850\text{ V}\) is applied across the plates, creating a uniform electric field. A charged plastic sphere of mass \(4.6 \times 10^{-14}\text{ kg}\) is held in stationary equilibrium between the plates.

(a) Determine the charge on the sphere, including its sign, if the upper plate is connected to the positive terminal of the power supply.

(b) Explain how the motion of the sphere would change if the potential difference is increased.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) Calculate the electric field strength \(E\):
\(E = \frac{V}{d} = \frac{850\text{ V}}{0.018\text{ m}} \approx 47222\text{ V m}^{-1}\)

For the sphere to be in equilibrium, the upward electric force must balance the downward gravitational force:
\(F_E = F_g \implies q E = m g\)

\(q = \frac{m g}{E} = \frac{4.6 \times 10^{-14}\text{ kg} \times 9.81\text{ m s}^{-2}}{47222\text{ V m}^{-1}} \approx 9.56 \times 10^{-18}\text{ C}\)

Since the upper plate is positive, to produce an upward force (towards the positive plate), the sphere must carry a negative charge. Thus:
\(q = -9.56 \times 10^{-18}\text{ C}\)

(b) If the potential difference \(V\) is increased, the electric field strength \(E\) increases because \(E = V/d\). Since the charge \(q\) remains constant, the upward electric force \(F_E = q E\) will increase and exceed the downward gravitational force. Consequently, there will be a net upward force on the sphere, causing it to accelerate upwards.

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a) [4.67 Marks]:
- [M1] Use of \(E = V/d\) to find electric field (\(4.72 \times 10^4\text{ V m}^{-1}\)).
- [M1] Recognises equilibrium condition: \(q E = m g\).
- [M1] Rearranging and substituting values correctly.
- [A1] Correct numerical magnitude of charge (\(9.56 \times 10^{-18}\text{ C}\)).
- [A0.67] Correctly identifies that the sign is negative with justification (attracted to the positive upper plate).

Part (b) [2 Marks]:
- [M1] Explains that increased \(V\) increases \(E\), causing \(F_E\) to exceed gravity.
- [A1] Concludes that there is a net upward force leading to upward acceleration.
PastPaper.question 14 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
6.67 PastPaper.marks
A capacitor of capacitance \(470\ \mu\text{F}\) is fully charged to a potential difference of \(9.0\text{ V}\). It is then discharged through a resistor of resistance \(15\text{ k}\Omega\).

(a) Calculate the time constant of this discharge circuit.

(b) Calculate the charge remaining on the capacitor plates after a time equal to two time constants has elapsed.

(c) State and explain how the time constant of the discharging circuit would change if a second, identical \(470\ \mu\text{F}\) capacitor is connected in parallel with the first.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) The time constant \(\tau\) is given by:
\(\tau = R C = (15 \times 10^3\ \Omega) \times (470 \times 10^{-6}\text{ F}) = 7.05\text{ s}\)

(b) First, calculate the initial charge \(Q_0\):
\(Q_0 = C V = (470 \times 10^{-6}\text{ F}) \times 9.0\text{ V} = 4.23 \times 10^{-3}\text{ C}\)

The discharging equation for charge is:
\(Q = Q_0 e^{-t/\tau}\)

For \(t = 2\tau\):
\(Q = Q_0 e^{-2} = 4.23 \times 10^{-3}\text{ C} \times e^{-2} \approx 4.23 \times 10^{-3} \times 0.1353\)
\(Q \approx 5.72 \times 10^{-4}\text{ C}\) (or \(0.572\text{ mC}\))

(c) When capacitors are connected in parallel, their capacitances add:
\(C_{\text{total}} = C_1 + C_2 = 470\ \mu\text{F} + 470\ \mu\text{F} = 940\ \mu\text{F}\)

Since \(\tau = R C\), and the total capacitance has doubled while the resistance remains constant, the new time constant will double to \(14.1\text{ s}\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a) [2 Marks]:
- [M1] Use of \(\tau = R C\) with correct unit conversion.
- [A1] Correct answer of \(7.05\text{ s}\).

Part (b) [2.67 Marks]:
- [M1] Calculation of initial charge \(Q_0 = C V = 4.23 \times 10^{-3}\text{ C}\).
- [M1] Use of \(Q = Q_0 e^{-t/\tau}\) with \(t = 2\tau\) (recognising it reduces to \(Q_0 e^{-2}\)).
- [A0.67] Correct final charge (\(5.72 \times 10^{-4}\text{ C}\) or \(0.57\text{ mC}\)).

Part (c) [2 Marks]:
- [M1] Explains that parallel connection doubles the capacitance.
- [A1] States that since \(\tau \propto C\), the time constant will double (to \(14.1\text{ s}\)).
PastPaper.question 15 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
6.67 PastPaper.marks
A circular coil consisting of 150 turns and radius \(2.5\text{ cm}\) is placed perpendicular to a uniform magnetic field of magnetic flux density \(0.18\text{ T}\).

The coil is rotated through \(90^\circ\) in a time of \(0.12\text{ s}\) so that its plane becomes parallel to the direction of the magnetic field.

(a) Calculate the average electromotive force (e.m.f.) induced in the coil during this rotation.

(b) The coil is connected to a closed circuit of resistance \(4.0\ \Omega\). State Lenz's law and explain how it determines the direction of the induced current during this rotation.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) First, calculate the cross-sectional area \(A\) of the circular coil:
\(A = \pi r^2 = \pi \times (0.025\text{ m})^2 \approx 1.963 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m}^2\)

Initial flux linkage through the coil when perpendicular:
\(\Phi_{\text{initial}} = N B A = 150 \times 0.18\text{ T} \times 1.963 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m}^2 \approx 0.0530\text{ Wb-turns}\)

Final flux linkage when parallel to the magnetic field is zero:
\(\Phi_{\text{final}} = 0\)

Change in flux linkage:
\(\Delta \Phi = 0.0530\text{ Wb-turns}\)

According to Faraday's law, the average induced e.m.f. is:
\(\varepsilon = \frac{\Delta \Phi}{\Delta t} = \frac{0.0530\text{ Wb-turns}}{0.12\text{ s}} \approx 0.442\text{ V}\) (or \(0.44\text{ V}\))

(b) Lenz's law states that the direction of an induced e.m.f. is such that it will oppose the change in magnetic flux that produced it.

During rotation, the magnetic flux passing through the coil is decreasing. Therefore, the induced current in the coil flows in a direction that creates its own magnetic field through the coil in the same direction as the external field, attempting to maintain the magnetic flux and oppose the decrease.

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a) [4 Marks]:
- [M1] Calculation of area \(A = \pi r^2 = 1.96 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m}^2\).
- [M1] Calculation of initial magnetic flux linkage \(N B A = 0.0530\text{ Wb}\).
- [M1] Use of Faraday's Law: \(\varepsilon = \Delta(NBA)/\Delta t\).
- [A1] Correct value of induced e.m.f. (\(0.44\text{ V}\)).

Part (b) [2.67 Marks]:
- [M1] Accurate statement of Lenz's law (direction of induced e.m.f./current opposes the change in flux).
- [M1] Identification that flux through the coil is decreasing during rotation.
- [A0.67] Explains that the induced current's magnetic field acts in the same direction as the original field to oppose this decrease.
PastPaper.question 16 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
6.67 PastPaper.marks
Electrons are accelerated from rest through a potential difference \(V\) in an electron gun. They are then directed at a thin target of crystalline graphite, producing a diffraction pattern on a fluorescent screen.

(a) Show that the de Broglie wavelength \(\lambda\) of an electron accelerated through a potential difference \(V\) is given by:

\[\lambda = \frac{h}{\sqrt{2 m_e e V}}\]

(b) Calculate the de Broglie wavelength of an electron accelerated through a potential difference of \(2.5\text{ kV}\).
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) An electron of charge \(e\) accelerated through potential difference \(V\) gains kinetic energy \(E_k\):
\(E_k = e V\)

The kinetic energy is also related to momentum \(p\) and mass \(m_e\) by:
\(E_k = \frac{p^2}{2 m_e}\)

Equating these two expressions:
\(e V = \frac{p^2}{2 m_e} \implies p = \sqrt{2 m_e e V}\)

According to de Broglie's wave-particle duality relation:
\(\lambda = \frac{h}{p}\)

Substituting the expression for momentum \(p\) gives the required relation:
\(\lambda = \frac{h}{\sqrt{2 m_e e V}}\)

(b) Substitute the values into the derived equation:
\(h = 6.63 \times 10^{-34}\text{ J s}\)
\(m_e = 9.11 \times 10^{-31}\text{ kg}\)
\(e = 1.60 \times 10^{-19}\text{ C}\)
\(V = 2.5\text{ kV} = 2500\text{ V}\)

\(\lambda = \frac{6.63 \times 10^{-34}}{\sqrt{2 \times (9.11 \times 10^{-31}) \times (1.60 \times 10^{-19}) \times 2500}}\)

\(\lambda = \frac{6.63 \times 10^{-34}}{\sqrt{7.288 \times 10^{-46}}} = \frac{6.63 \times 10^{-34}}{2.70 \times 10^{-23}} \approx 2.46 \times 10^{-11}\text{ m}\) (or \(25\text{ pm}\))

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a) [3.67 Marks]:
- [M1] Link work done/electrical potential energy to kinetic energy: \(E_k = eV\).
- [M1] Link kinetic energy to momentum: \(E_k = p^2 / 2m_e\).
- [M1] State de Broglie's relation: \(\lambda = h / p\).
- [A0.67] Algebra showing clear and complete steps to reach the final expression.

Part (b) [3 Marks]:
- [M1] Identifies \(V = 2500\text{ V}\) (converts kV to V correctly).
- [M1] Correct substitution of physics constants (\(h, m_e, e\)) into the equation.
- [A1] Correct final answer with units (\(2.46 \times 10^{-11}\text{ m}\) or \(2.5 \times 10^{-11}\text{ m}\)).
PastPaper.question 17 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
6.67 PastPaper.marks
In a bubble chamber, a high-energy gamma-ray photon decays into an electron-positron pair: \(\gamma \rightarrow e^- + e^+\).

A uniform magnetic field of flux density \(B = 0.35\text{ T}\) is directed perpendicular to the plane of the tracks. The electron track is observed to curve in a circular path of radius \(r = 8.2\text{ cm}\).

(a) Calculate the momentum of the electron.

(b) Explain why the electron and positron tracks curve in opposite directions but have the same initial radius of curvature.

(c) Explain why the radius of both tracks decreases as the particles travel through the chamber.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) For a charged particle moving perpendicular to a magnetic field, the magnetic force provides the centripetal force:
\(B q v = \frac{m v^2}{r} \implies p = m v = B q r\)

Substitute the values for the electron:
\(p = 0.35\text{ T} \times (1.60 \times 10^{-19}\text{ C}) \times 0.082\text{ m}\)
\(p \approx 4.59 \times 10^{-21}\text{ kg m s}^{-1}\)

(b) The magnetic force equation is \(F = B q v\). The electron (\(e^-\)) and positron (\(e^+\)) have opposite signs of charge. Thus, the magnetic force acts in opposite directions for each particle, causing opposite directions of curvature.
Since the particles are produced with identical initial speeds (due to symmetry in pair production), have identical masses (same momentum magnitude \(p\)), and have the same magnitude of charge \(q = e\), they experience the same magnitude of centripetal force. Thus, the initial radius of curvature \(r = \frac{p}{B q}\) is identical.

(c) As the particles travel through the chamber, they collide with atoms in the bubble chamber medium, causing ionization. During these collisions, the particles lose kinetic energy and momentum. Since \(r = \frac{p}{B q}\), as momentum \(p\) decreases while \(B\) and \(q\) remain constant, the radius of curvature \(r\) must decrease, resulting in spiral-shaped tracks.

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a) [2 Marks]:
- [M1] Uses \(p = B q r\).
- [A1] Correct calculation of momentum (\(4.59 \times 10^{-21}\text{ kg m s}^{-1}\)).

Part (b) [2.67 Marks]:
- [M1] Explains that opposite charges experience opposite magnetic forces, causing opposite deflections.
- [M1] States that the radius depends on momentum and charge magnitude (\(r = p/Bq\)).
- [A0.67] Concludes that equal initial momentum and equal charge magnitude lead to equal initial radii.

Part (c) [2 Marks]:
- [M1] Explains that particles lose energy/momentum due to collisions or ionization with atoms.
- [A1] Links this momentum loss directly to a decreasing radius using \(r = p/Bq\).
PastPaper.question 18 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
6.67 PastPaper.marks
A stationary neutral pion (\(\pi^0\)) decays into two identical gamma-ray photons: \(\pi^0 \rightarrow \gamma + \gamma\). The rest mass of a \(\pi^0\) pion is \(135\text{ MeV/c}^2\).

(a) Calculate the frequency of each photon produced in this decay.

(b) A student suggests that a single photon could be produced instead of two. Explain, with reference to conservation laws, why this single-photon decay is impossible.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) Since the neutral pion is stationary, its total energy is its rest energy:
\(E_{\text{total}} = 135\text{ MeV}\)

By conservation of momentum, since the initial momentum of the stationary pion is zero, the two photons must travel in opposite directions with equal and opposite momentum. By conservation of energy, the total energy is split equally between the two identical photons:
\(E_{\text{photon}} = \frac{135\text{ MeV}}{2} = 67.5\text{ MeV}\)

Convert this energy to Joules:
\(E_{\text{photon}} = 67.5 \times 10^6\text{ eV} \times (1.60 \times 10^{-19}\text{ J / eV}) = 1.08 \times 10^{-11}\text{ J}\)

Now, use \(E = h f\) to find the frequency:
\(f = \frac{E_{\text{photon}}}{h} = \frac{1.08 \times 10^{-11}\text{ J}}{6.63 \times 10^{-34}\text{ J s}} \approx 1.63 \times 10^{22}\text{ Hz}\)

(b) A photon always carries momentum given by \(p = \frac{E}{c}\). If a single photon were produced, the final state would have non-zero momentum. However, the initial momentum of the stationary pion is zero. Since momentum must be conserved in all interactions, a single-photon decay is impossible as it would violate the conservation of momentum. At least two photons traveling in opposite directions are required so that their vector sum of momentum can be zero.

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a) [4 Marks]:
- [M1] Identifies that energy is split equally: each photon has \(67.5\text{ MeV}\) of energy.
- [M1] Converts energy from MeV to Joules correctly (\(1.08 \times 10^{-11}\text{ J}\)).
- [M1] Uses \(E = h f\).
- [A1] Correct calculation of frequency (\(1.63 \times 10^{22}\text{ Hz}\)).

Part (b) [2.67 Marks]:
- [M1] Identifies that a photon must carry linear momentum (\(p = E/c\)).
- [M1] States that the initial momentum of the stationary pion is zero.
- [A0.67] Explains that single-photon decay is impossible because it would violate the conservation of momentum (whereas two photons can cancel momentum).
PastPaper.question 19 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
6.67 PastPaper.marks
A small metal sphere of mass \(0.15\text{ kg}\) is attached to a light, inextensible string of length \(0.85\text{ m}\) and is whirled in a vertical circle.

(a) Identify the two forces acting on the sphere when it is at the top of the circular path, stating their directions. [2]

(b) Calculate the tension in the string when the sphere is at the top of the path and traveling at a speed of \(3.4\text{ m s}^{-1}\). [3]

(c) Determine the minimum speed at the top of the circle required for the sphere to maintain circular motion. [1.67]
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) The two forces acting on the sphere at the top of its path are:
- Weight (gravitational force) acting vertically downwards.
- Tension (of the string) acting downwards (towards the center of the circle).

(b) At the top of the circle, both the weight \(mg\) and the tension \(T\) act downwards, providing the required centripetal force:
\[F_c = T + mg = \frac{mv^2}{r}\]
Rearranging to solve for tension:
\[T = \frac{mv^2}{r} - mg\]
Substitute the values:
\[T = \frac{0.15\text{ kg} \times (3.4\text{ m s}^{-1})^2}{0.85\text{ m}} - 0.15\text{ kg} \times 9.81\text{ m s}^{-2}\]
\[T = 2.04\text{ N} - 1.47\text{ N} = 0.57\text{ N}\]

(c) For minimum speed, the tension in the string becomes zero \((T = 0)\) at the top of the loop.
\[mg = \frac{mv_{\text{min}}^2}{r}\]
\[v_{\text{min}} = \sqrt{gr} = \sqrt{9.81\text{ m s}^{-2} \times 0.85\text{ m}} = 2.89\text{ m s}^{-1}\]

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a):
- Weight directed downwards [1 mark]
- Tension directed downwards / towards the center [1 mark]

Part (b):
- Correct equation relating forces to centripetal force: \(T + mg = \frac{mv^2}{r}\) [1 mark]
- Correct substitution of values [1 mark]
- Final tension value \(0.57\text{ N}\) [1 mark] (accept \(0.569\text{ N}\))

Part (c):
- Identification that \(T = 0\) for minimum speed [0.67 marks]
- Correct calculation of minimum speed: \(2.9\text{ m s}^{-1}\) [1 mark] (accept \(2.89\text{ m s}^{-1}\))
PastPaper.question 20 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
6.67 PastPaper.marks
A student investigates the discharge of a capacitor through a resistor. A capacitor of capacitance \(C = 470\ \mu\text{F}\) is initially charged to a potential difference of \(12.0\text{ V}\). It is then discharged through a resistor of resistance \(R = 22\text{ k}\Omega\).

(a) Calculate the time constant of the discharge circuit. [2]

(b) Calculate the charge remaining on the capacitor after a time equal to two time constants has elapsed. [3]

(c) State and explain how the time constant of the discharge circuit would change if an identical resistor were connected in parallel with the first resistor. [1.67]
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) The time constant \(\tau\) is given by:
\[\tau = RC\]
\[\tau = (22 \times 10^3\ \Omega) \times (470 \times 10^{-6}\text{ F}) = 10.34\text{ s}\]
This rounds to \(10.3\text{ s}\) (or \(10\text{ s}\) to 2 s.f.).

(b) The initial charge \(Q_0\) on the capacitor is:
\[Q_0 = C V_0 = (470 \times 10^{-6}\text{ F}) \times 12.0\text{ V} = 5.64 \times 10^{-3}\text{ C}\]

After a time \(t = 2\tau = 2RC\), the charge remaining is:
\[Q = Q_0 e^{-t/RC} = Q_0 e^{-2}\]
\[Q = 5.64 \times 10^{-3}\text{ C} \times e^{-2} = 5.64 \times 10^{-3}\text{ C} \times 0.1353 = 7.63 \times 10^{-4}\text{ C}\]

(c) Connecting an identical resistor in parallel halves the total equivalent resistance \(R_{\text{eq}} = R/2\). Since \(\tau = R_{\text{eq}}C\), halving the resistance will halve the time constant, making it \(5.17\text{ s}\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a):
- Use of \(\tau = RC\) [1 mark]
- Correct calculation to yield \(10.3\text{ s}\) (or \(10\text{ s}\)) with unit [1 mark]

Part (b):
- Correct calculation of initial charge \(Q_0 = 5.64 \times 10^{-3}\text{ C}\) [1 mark]
- Correct use of exponential decay equation with \(t/\tau = 2\) [1 mark]
- Correct value for charge remaining: \(7.6 \times 10^{-4}\text{ C}\) [1 mark] (accept \(7.63 \times 10^{-4}\text{ C}\))

Part (c):
- Explanation that parallel resistors halve the equivalent resistance [1 mark]
- Conclusion that the time constant halves (or decreases to \(5.2\text{ s}\)) [0.67 marks]
PastPaper.question 21 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
6.67 PastPaper.marks
In a bubble chamber experiment, a high-energy gamma photon (\(\gamma\)) decays into an electron-positron pair (\(e^- + e^+\)) in the presence of a uniform magnetic field of magnetic flux density \(B = 0.12\text{ T}\). The electron and positron move in circular paths perpendicular to the magnetic field.

(a) State why the track of the gamma photon is not visible in the bubble chamber, whereas the electron and positron tracks are visible. [2]

(b) The radius of curvature of the electron's track is measured to be \(4.5\text{ cm}\). Calculate the momentum of the electron. [3]

(c) The electron track shows a spiral shape of decreasing radius. Explain this observation. [1.67]
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) The bubble chamber works by ionizing atoms along the paths of charged particles, which act as nucleation centers for bubble formation. The gamma photon is neutral (uncharged) and does not cause direct ionization, leaving no track. The electron and positron are charged, causing ionization and thus leaving visible tracks.

(b) The centripetal force is provided by the magnetic force on the charged particle:
\[\frac{mv^2}{r} = Bqv\]
Rearranging to find the momentum \(p = mv\):
\[p = Bqr\]
Substitute the values:
\[p = 0.12\text{ T} \times (1.60 \times 10^{-19}\text{ C}) \times 0.045\text{ m}\]
\[p = 8.64 \times 10^{-22}\text{ kg m s}^{-1}\]

(c) As the electron travels through the chamber, it collides with atoms, causing ionization and losing kinetic energy. As its velocity and momentum decrease, and since \(r = \frac{p}{Bq}\) where \(B\) and \(q\) are constant, the radius of curvature \(r\) decreases, creating a spiral shape.

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a):
- Statement that bubble formation requires charged particles to ionize atoms [1 mark]
- Explanation that the gamma photon is neutral while the electron/positron are charged [1 mark]

Part (b):
- Recalling or deriving \(p = Bqr\) [1 mark]
- Correct conversion of radius \(4.5\text{ cm}\) to \(0.045\text{ m}\) [1 mark]
- Correct calculation of momentum: \(8.6 \times 10^{-22}\text{ kg m s}^{-1}\) (or \(\text{N s}\)) [1 mark] (accept \(8.64 \times 10^{-22}\))

Part (c):
- Identification that the electron loses kinetic energy/momentum due to collisions or ionization [1 mark]
- Linking lower momentum to smaller radius using \(r = \frac{p}{Bq}\) [0.67 marks]
PastPaper.question 22 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
6.67 PastPaper.marks
A linear accelerator (linac) is used to accelerate protons. The high-frequency alternating potential difference applied to the drift tubes has a frequency of \(25\text{ MHz}\).

(a) Explain why the drift tubes must increase in length along the accelerator. [2]

(b) Calculate the time a proton spends inside each drift tube. [2]

(c) A proton emerges from the fifth drift tube with a kinetic energy of \(12\text{ MeV}\). Calculate the speed of this proton. Determine whether it is reasonable to treat this proton non-relativistically.
(Rest mass of a proton \(m_p = 1.67 \times 10^{-27}\text{ kg}\)). [2.67]
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) Protons accelerate in the gaps between the drift tubes. Consequently, they travel faster inside each successive tube. To ensure that they arrive at each gap in phase with the alternating voltage (which changes direction at fixed intervals of time), the time spent inside each drift tube must remain constant. Because \(s = vt\), as speed \(v\) increases, the tube length \(s\) must increase to keep the travel time constant.

(b) The proton must spend half a period \(T/2\) of the AC source inside each tube so that the electric field reverses when the proton emerges into the gap:
\[T = \frac{1}{f} = \frac{1}{25 \times 10^6\text{ Hz}} = 4.0 \times 10^{-8}\text{ s}\]
\[\text{Time inside tube } t = \frac{T}{2} = 2.0 \times 10^{-8}\text{ s}\ (\text{or } 20\text{ ns})\]

(c) First, calculate the velocity assuming non-relativistic conditions:
\[E_k = 12\text{ MeV} = 12 \times 10^6 \times 1.60 \times 10^{-19}\text{ J} = 1.92 \times 10^{-12}\text{ J}\]
\[E_k = \frac{1}{2}m_p v^2 \implies v = \sqrt{\frac{2E_k}{m_p}}\]
\[v = \sqrt{\frac{2 \times 1.92 \times 10^{-12}\text{ J}}{1.67 \times 10^{-27}\text{ kg}}} = 4.79 \times 10^7\text{ m s}^{-1}\]

To determine if it is relativistic, we compare this speed to the speed of light \(c = 3.00 \times 10^8\text{ m s}^{-1}\):
\[\frac{v}{c} = \frac{4.79 \times 10^7}{3.00 \times 10^8} \approx 0.16\]
Since \(v\) is only about \(16\%\) of the speed of light, relativistic effects are small. Alternatively, comparing the kinetic energy (\(12\text{ MeV}\)) to the proton's rest energy (\(m_p c^2 \approx 938\text{ MeV}\)) shows \(12\text{ MeV} \ll 938\text{ MeV}\), confirming that treating the proton non-relativistically is a reasonable approximation.

PastPaper.markingScheme

Part (a):
- Statement that protons speed up in the gaps [1 mark]
- Explanation that the AC period is constant, so tubes must be longer to keep the time spent in each tube constant (or to remain in phase) [1 mark]

Part (b):
- Recalling that \(t = \frac{T}{2} = \frac{1}{2f}\) [1 mark]
- Correct calculation yielding \(2.0 \times 10^{-8}\text{ s}\) (or \(20\text{ ns}\)) [1 mark]

Part (c):
- Conversion of kinetic energy to Joules: \(1.92 \times 10^{-12}\text{ J}\) [1 mark]
- Correct calculation of speed: \(4.8 \times 10^7\text{ m s}^{-1}\) [1 mark]
- Valid comparison (comparing speed to \(c\) or kinetic energy to rest energy \(\approx 938\text{ MeV}\)) concluding it is non-relativistic [0.67 marks]

PastPaper.section Unit 5: Thermodynamics, Radiation, Oscillations and Cosmology

Answer ALL questions. Section A comprises 10 multiple-choice questions. Section B comprises 11 structured and calculation questions.
21 PastPaper.question · 89.96999999999997 PastPaper.marks
PastPaper.question 1 · multiple-choice
1 PastPaper.marks
An ideal gas in a sealed container of fixed volume is heated so that its absolute temperature is doubled. Which of the following statements correctly describes the change in the mean square speed of the gas molecules?
  1. A.It increases by a factor of \(\sqrt{2}\)
  2. B.It increases by a factor of 2
  3. C.It increases by a factor of 4
  4. D.It remains unchanged
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The average kinetic energy of the molecules in an ideal gas is directly proportional to the absolute temperature, \(E_k = \frac{3}{2}kT = \frac{1}{2}m\langle c^2 \rangle\). Therefore, the mean square speed \(\langle c^2 \rangle\) is directly proportional to the absolute temperature \(T\). When the absolute temperature is doubled, the mean square speed must also double. (Note: The root mean square speed, \(\sqrt{\langle c^2 \rangle}\), would increase by a factor of \(\sqrt{2}\)).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for selecting option B. Reject options referencing the square root factor (A) or square factor (C) as they apply to root mean square speed or are incorrect.
PastPaper.question 2 · multiple-choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A cylinder of fixed volume contains \(N\) molecules of an ideal gas at pressure \(p\) and absolute temperature \(T\). If \(\frac{1}{2}N\) molecules escape from the cylinder and the absolute temperature is increased to \(1.5T\), what is the new pressure of the gas?
  1. A.0.50 p
  2. B.0.75 p
  3. C.1.33 p
  4. D.1.50 p
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

Using the ideal gas equation \(pV = NkT\), since the volume \(V\) of the cylinder is fixed, the pressure is proportional to the product of the number of molecules and the absolute temperature, \(p \propto NT\). The initial pressure is \(p_i = C \cdot N T\) where \(C\) is a constant. The final pressure is \(p_f = C \cdot \left(\frac{1}{2}N\right) \cdot (1.5T) = 0.75 \cdot C \cdot N T = 0.75 p\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for selecting option B. Correctly applies the ideal gas law with fixed volume to calculate the proportional change in pressure.
PastPaper.question 3 · multiple-choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A mass-spring system undergoes simple harmonic motion with amplitude \(A\). At what displacement \(x\) from the equilibrium position is the kinetic energy of the mass equal to three times its potential energy?
  1. A.0.25 A
  2. B.0.50 A
  3. C.0.71 A
  4. D.0.87 A
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The total energy of the simple harmonic oscillator is given by \(E_T = E_k + E_p = \frac{1}{2} k A^2\). The potential energy is given by \(E_p = \frac{1}{2} k x^2\). Since \(E_k = 3 E_p\), the total energy is \(3 E_p + E_p = 4 E_p = \frac{1}{2} k A^2\). Substituting the expression for \(E_p\) yields \(4 \left(\frac{1}{2} k x^2\right) = \frac{1}{2} k A^2 \implies 4 x^2 = A^2 \implies x = 0.50 A\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for selecting option B. Correctly relates total energy, potential energy, and kinetic energy to solve for displacement.
PastPaper.question 4 · multiple-choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A mechanical system is undergoing lightly damped oscillations. Which of the following statements is correct?
  1. A.The amplitude of the oscillations decreases exponentially with time
  2. B.The time period of the oscillations decreases significantly
  3. C.The total mechanical energy of the system remains constant
  4. D.The frequency of the oscillations increases over time
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

For light damping, the amplitude of the oscillations decreases exponentially over time. The time period and frequency of the oscillations remain approximately constant, while the total mechanical energy decreases as it is dissipated as thermal energy.

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for selecting option A. Reject B, C, and D as they describe incorrect physical behaviors of a lightly damped oscillator.
PastPaper.question 5 · multiple-choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A radioactive sample initially contains only nuclei of isotope X. Isotope X decays into a stable isotope Y with a half-life of \(t_{1/2}\). After a time interval of \(3 t_{1/2}\), what is the ratio of the number of Y nuclei to the number of X nuclei?
  1. A.3
  2. B.7
  3. C.8
  4. D.0.14
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

Let the initial number of X nuclei be \(N_0\). After 3 half-lives, the number of remaining X nuclei is \(N_X = N_0 \cdot \left(\frac{1}{2}\right)^3 = \frac{1}{8} N_0\). Since Y is the stable decay product, the number of Y nuclei formed is \(N_Y = N_0 - N_X = \frac{7}{8} N_0\). The ratio of Y to X is \(\frac{N_Y}{N_X} = \frac{7/8}{1/8} = 7\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for selecting option B. Calculates the remaining fraction of parent nuclei and the produced fraction of daughter nuclei to determine the correct ratio.
PastPaper.question 6 · multiple-choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A helium-4 nucleus (\(^{4}_{2}\text{He}\)) consists of two protons and two neutrons. The mass of a free proton is \(m_p\), the mass of a free neutron is \(m_n\), and the mass of a helium-4 nucleus is \(m_{\alpha}\). Which of the following expressions represents the binding energy of the helium-4 nucleus, where \(c\) is the speed of light?
  1. A.\((2m_p + 2m_n - m_{\alpha})c^2\)
  2. B.\((m_{\alpha} - 2m_p - 2m_n)c^2\)
  3. C.\((2m_p + 2m_n + m_{\alpha})c^2\)
  4. D.\((m_{\alpha} - m_p - m_n)c^2\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The binding energy is the energy equivalent of the mass defect. The mass defect \(\Delta m\) is the difference between the total mass of the individual constituent nucleons and the mass of the nucleus: \(\Delta m = (2m_p + 2m_n) - m_{\alpha}\). Therefore, the binding energy is \(E_B = (2m_p + 2m_n - m_{\alpha})c^2\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for selecting option A. Identify the correct algebraic expression for the mass defect multiplied by \(c^2\).
PastPaper.question 7 · multiple-choice
1 PastPaper.marks
Star P and Star Q have the same luminosity. The peak wavelength in the blackbody radiation spectrum of Star P is \(\lambda_P\) and the peak wavelength of Star Q is \(\lambda_Q = 2\lambda_P\). What is the ratio of the radius of Star P to the radius of Star Q, \(\frac{R_P}{R_Q}\)?
  1. A.0.25
  2. B.0.50
  3. C.2.0
  4. D.4.0
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

Using Wien's displacement law, peak wavelength is inversely proportional to temperature: \(T \propto \frac{1}{\lambda}\). According to the Stefan-Boltzmann law, luminosity is \(L = 4\pi R^2 \sigma T^4\). Since \(L_P = L_Q\), we have \(R_P^2 T_P^4 = R_Q^2 T_Q^4 \implies \left(\frac{R_P}{R_Q}\right)^2 = \left(\frac{T_Q}{T_P}\right)^4 = \left(\frac{\lambda_P}{\lambda_Q}\right)^4 = \left(\frac{1}{2}\right)^4 = \frac{1}{16}\). Taking the square root gives \(\frac{R_P}{R_Q} = 0.25\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for selecting option A. Relates radius to temperature and wavelength using the combined laws to find the correct ratio.
PastPaper.question 8 · multiple-choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A distant galaxy is observed to have a redshift \(z = 0.040\). Using Hubble's law with a Hubble constant \(H_0 = 70\text{ km s}^{-1}\text{Mpc}^{-1}\), what is the approximate distance to this galaxy? (Take the speed of light \(c = 3.0 \times 10^8\text{ m s}^{-1}\))
  1. A.1.7 Mpc
  2. B.17 Mpc
  3. C.170 Mpc
  4. D.1700 Mpc
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

First, calculate the recession velocity \(v\) using the redshift relation: \(v = z c = 0.040 \times 3.0 \times 10^5\text{ km s}^{-1} = 12000\text{ km s}^{-1}\). Using Hubble's Law \(v = H_0 d\), the distance is \(d = \frac{v}{H_0} = \frac{12000}{70} \approx 171\text{ Mpc}\), which is closest to \(170\text{ Mpc}\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for selecting option C. Calculates velocity from redshift, then applies Hubble's law to solve for distance.
PastPaper.question 9 · multiple-choice
1 PastPaper.marks
A sample of an ideal gas contains molecules with a root-mean-square speed \(v\). The gas is heated at constant volume until its absolute temperature is doubled. The gas then undergoes an isothermal expansion until its volume is tripled. What is the final root-mean-square speed of the gas molecules?
  1. A.\(\sqrt{2}v\)
  2. B.\(\sqrt{6}v\)
  3. C.\(2v\)
  4. D.\(6v\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

The root-mean-square speed of an ideal gas molecule is given by \(v_{\text{rms}} = \sqrt{\frac{3kT}{m}}\). This shows that \(v_{\text{rms}} \propto \sqrt{T}\), where \(T\) is the absolute temperature of the gas. When the gas is heated at constant volume until its absolute temperature is doubled, the root-mean-square speed becomes \(\sqrt{2} v\). When the gas then undergoes an isothermal expansion, the temperature remains constant. Since the temperature does not change during an isothermal process, the root-mean-square speed of the molecules remains unchanged at \(\sqrt{2}v\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for correct answer (A).
PastPaper.question 10 · multiple-choice
1 PastPaper.marks
Star X has a peak radiation wavelength of \(\lambda\) and a luminosity \(L\). Star Y has a peak radiation wavelength of \(2\lambda\) and a radius that is twice that of star X. What is the luminosity of star Y?
  1. A.\(0.25 L\)
  2. B.\(0.50 L\)
  3. C.\(2.0 L\)
  4. D.\(4.0 L\)
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

According to Wien's displacement law, the absolute temperature \(T\) of a star is inversely proportional to its peak wavelength \(\lambda\), so \(T \propto \frac{1}{\lambda}\). Since star Y has a peak wavelength of \(2\lambda\), its temperature is \(T_Y = 0.5 T_X\). According to the Stefan-Boltzmann law, the luminosity of a star is \(L = 4\pi R^2 \sigma T^4\), so \(L \propto R^2 T^4\). For star Y, the radius is \(2R_X\) and the temperature is \(0.5 T_X\), so its luminosity is proportional to \((2R_X)^2 (0.5 T_X)^4 = 4 R_X^2 \times 0.0625 T_X^4 = 0.25 R_X^2 T_X^4\). Therefore, the luminosity of star Y is \(0.25 L\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

1 mark for correct answer (A).
PastPaper.question 11 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
7.27 PastPaper.marks
A rigid container of volume \(0.025\text{ m}^3\) contains helium-4 gas at an initial pressure of \(1.5 \times 10^5\text{ Pa}\) and a temperature of \(300\text{ K}\). The gas is heated until its pressure rises to \(2.4 \times 10^5\text{ Pa}\).

(a) Calculate the initial number of moles of helium gas in the container.

(b) Calculate the average kinetic energy of a helium atom at the final temperature.

(c) Explain, in terms of molecular movement, why the pressure increases as the temperature increases.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) Using the ideal gas equation \(PV = nRT\):
\(n = \frac{P_1 V}{R T_1} = \frac{1.5 \times 10^5\text{ Pa} \times 0.025\text{ m}^3}{8.31\text{ J K}^{-1}\text{ mol}^{-1} \times 300\text{ K}} = 1.504\text{ mol} \approx 1.50\text{ mol}\)

(b) Since the volume is constant, \(\frac{P_1}{T_1} = \frac{P_2}{T_2}\):
\(T_2 = T_1 \times \frac{P_2}{P_1} = 300\text{ K} \times \frac{2.4 \times 10^5\text{ Pa}}{1.5 \times 10^5\text{ Pa}} = 480\text{ K}\)

The average kinetic energy of an atom is:
\(E_k = \frac{3}{2} k_B T_2 = 1.5 \times (1.38 \times 10^{-23}\text{ J K}^{-1}) \times 480\text{ K} = 9.94 \times 10^{-21}\text{ J}\)

(c) An increase in temperature increases the mean square speed (and average kinetic energy) of the gas molecules. This results in more frequent collisions per second with the container walls and a greater change in momentum per collision. Consequently, the average rate of change of momentum (force) exerted on the walls increases, which increases the pressure.

PastPaper.markingScheme

(a)
- Use of \(PV = nRT\) (1)
- Correct answer to 2 or 3 s.f. [1.5 or 1.50 mol] (1)

(b)
- Use of pressure-temperature relationship to find final temperature of 480 K (1)
- Use of \(E_k = \frac{3}{2} k_B T\) (1)
- Correct calculation of energy [\(9.9 \times 10^{-21}\text{ J}\)] (1)

(c)
- Reference to higher average speed/kinetic energy of molecules (1)
- Reference to more frequent collisions with the walls OR greater change in momentum per collision (1)
PastPaper.question 12 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
7.27 PastPaper.marks
A block of mass \(0.45\text{ kg}\) is attached to a horizontal spring of stiffness \(k = 80\text{ N m}^{-1}\) on a frictionless surface. The block is pulled a distance of \(0.080\text{ m}\) from its equilibrium position and released from rest.

(a) Show that the motion of the block is simple harmonic.

(b) Calculate the maximum speed of the block during its oscillations.

(c) Calculate the kinetic energy of the block when its displacement is \(0.040\text{ m}\).
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) According to Hooke's Law, the restoring force is \(F = -kx\). By Newton's second law, \(F = ma\), so \(ma = -kx\), which gives \(a = -\frac{k}{m}x\). Since \(\frac{k}{m}\) is a positive constant, the acceleration \(a\) is directly proportional to displacement \(x\) and acts in the opposite direction (towards the equilibrium position). This defines simple harmonic motion.

(b) The angular frequency is:
\(\omega = \sqrt{\frac{k}{m}} = \sqrt{\frac{80\text{ N m}^{-1}}{0.45\text{ kg}}} = 13.33\text{ rad s}^{-1}\)

Maximum speed:
\(v_{\text{max}} = \omega A = 13.33\text{ rad s}^{-1} \times 0.080\text{ m} = 1.07\text{ m s}^{-1}\)

(c) The total energy is \(E_{\text{total}} = \frac{1}{2} k A^2 = 0.5 \times 80 \times 0.080^2 = 0.256\text{ J}\).

The potential energy at \(x = 0.040\text{ m}\) is:
\(E_p = \frac{1}{2} k x^2 = 0.5 \times 80 \times 0.040^2 = 0.064\text{ J}\)

Therefore, the kinetic energy is:
\(E_k = E_{\text{total}} - E_p = 0.256 - 0.064 = 0.192\text{ J}\)

PastPaper.markingScheme

(a)
- Expression of restoring force and Newton's second law showing \(a = -\frac{k}{m}x\) (1)
- Explanation stating acceleration is proportional to displacement and in the opposite direction (1)

(b)
- Calculation of angular frequency \(\omega = 13.3\text{ rad s}^{-1}\) (1)
- Calculation of maximum speed [1.07 m s\(^{-1}\)] (1)
- Correct unit included (1)

(c)
- Use of total energy formula OR kinetic energy expression \(E_k = \frac{1}{2} k (A^2 - x^2)\) (1)
- Correct calculation [0.19 J or 0.192 J] (1)
PastPaper.question 13 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
7.27 PastPaper.marks
Archaeologists discover an ancient wooden artifact. A modern sample of wood of the same mass has a carbon-14 activity of \(16.0\text{ Bq}\). The ancient artifact has an activity of \(3.5\text{ Bq}\). The half-life of carbon-14 is \(5730\text{ years}\). (Assume \(1\text{ year} = 365\text{ days}\)).

(a) Calculate the decay constant of carbon-14 in \(\text{s}^{-1}\).

(b) Calculate the age of the wooden artifact in years.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) First convert half-life to seconds:
\(t_{1/2} = 5730\text{ years} \times 365\text{ days/year} \times 24\text{ hours/day} \times 3600\text{ seconds/hour} = 1.807 \times 10^{11}\text{ s}\)

Decay constant:
\(\lambda = \frac{\ln 2}{t_{1/2}} = \frac{0.69315}{1.807 \times 10^{11}\text{ s}} = 3.836 \times 10^{-12}\text{ s}^{-1} \approx 3.84 \times 10^{-12}\text{ s}^{-1}\)

(b) Using the decay equation \(A = A_0 e^{-\lambda t}\):
\(\frac{A}{A_0} = e^{-\lambda t} \implies \ln\left(\frac{A}{A_0}\right) = -\lambda t\)

Using decay constant in years to keep the units direct:
\(\lambda_{\text{year}} = \frac{\ln 2}{5730\text{ years}} = 1.2097 \times 10^{-4}\text{ year}^{-1}\)

\(\ln\left(\frac{3.5}{16.0}\right) = -1.5198\)

\(t = \frac{-1.5198}{-1.2097 \times 10^{-4}\text{ year}^{-1}} = 12564\text{ years} \approx 1.26 \times 10^4\text{ years}\)

PastPaper.markingScheme

(a)
- Conversion of half-life in years to seconds (1)
- Use of \(\lambda = \frac{\ln 2}{t_{1/2}}\) (1)
- Correct calculation [\(3.8 \times 10^{-12}\text{ s}^{-1}\) to \(3.84 \times 10^{-12}\text{ s}^{-1}\)] (1)

(b)
- Use of \(A = A_0 e^{-\lambda t}\) (1)
- Mathematical manipulation using natural logs (1)
- Correct substitution of values (1)
- Final value [\(12600\text{ years}\) or \(1.26 \times 10^4\text{ years}\)] (1)
PastPaper.question 14 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
7.27 PastPaper.marks
A distant blue giant star, Alpha Lupi, has a peak emission wavelength \(\lambda_{\text{max}} = 135\text{ nm}\). Its total luminosity is \(2.0 \times 10^4\) times that of the Sun (where Sun's luminosity \(L_{\odot} = 3.8 \times 10^{26}\text{ W}\)).

(a) Calculate the surface temperature of the star.

(b) Calculate the radius of the star.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) Using Wien's displacement law:
\(\lambda_{\text{max}} T = 2.89 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m K}\)

\(T = \frac{2.89 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m K}}{135 \times 10^{-9}\text{ m}} = 21407\text{ K} \approx 2.14 \times 10^4\text{ K}\) (or \(2.1 \times 10^4\text{ K}\))

(b) Using the Stefan-Boltzmann law:
\(L = 4 \pi R^2 \sigma T^4\)

First find the star's luminosity:
\(L = 2.0 \times 10^4 \times 3.8 \times 10^{26}\text{ W} = 7.6 \times 10^{30}\text{ W}\)

Now rearrange for \(R\):
\(R = \sqrt{\frac{L}{4 \pi \sigma T^4}}\)

\(R = \sqrt{\frac{7.6 \times 10^{30}\text{ W}}{4 \pi \times (5.67 \times 10^{-8}\text{ W m}^{-2}\text{ K}^{-4}) \times (21407\text{ K})^4}}\)

\(T^4 = (21407)^4 = 2.099 \times 10^{17}\text{ K}^4\)

\(R = \sqrt{\frac{7.6 \times 10^{30}}{1.496 \times 10^{11}}} = \sqrt{5.080 \times 10^{19}} = 7.13 \times 10^9\text{ m}\)

PastPaper.markingScheme

(a)
- Use of \(\lambda_{\text{max}} T = 2.89 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m K}\) (1)
- Correct calculated temperature [\(2.14 \times 10^4\text{ K}\) or \(2.1 \times 10^4\text{ K}\)] (1)

(b)
- Correct calculation of the star's luminosity (1)
- Use of Stefan-Boltzmann equation \(L = 4 \pi R^2 \sigma T^4\) (1)
- Rearranging equation for \(R\) (1)
- Correct calculation of \(T^4\) (1)
- Correct final radius [\(7.13 \times 10^9\text{ m}\) or \(7.1 \times 10^9\text{ m}\)] (1)
PastPaper.question 15 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
7.27 PastPaper.marks
An electric heater of power \(120\text{ W}\) is used to heat a \(0.50\text{ kg}\) block of metal. The temperature of the block rises from \(20^\circ\text{C}\) to \(65^\circ\text{C}\) in \(5.0\text{ minutes}\).

(a) Calculate the specific heat capacity of the metal, assuming no thermal energy is lost to the surroundings.

(b) Explain how heat loss to the surroundings would affect the calculated value of the specific heat capacity and describe one experimental method to minimize this effect.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) Thermal energy supplied by the heater:
\(E = P \times t = 120\text{ W} \times (5.0 \times 60\text{ s}) = 36000\text{ J}\)

Change in temperature:
\(\Delta T = 65^\circ\text{C} - 20^\circ\text{C} = 45\text{ K}\)

Using \(E = mc\Delta T\):
\(c = \frac{E}{m\Delta T} = \frac{36000\text{ J}}{0.50\text{ kg} \times 45\text{ K}} = 1600\text{ J kg}^{-1}\text{ K}^{-1}\)

(b) If heat is lost to the surroundings, the actual energy absorbed by the metal block is less than the calculated value of \(36000\text{ J}\). This means the calculated value of \(c\) will be higher than the true value. To minimize this, we can insulate/lag the block, or cool the block below room temperature by a certain amount before heating it to the same amount above room temperature (so heat absorbed from the room during the first half equals heat lost to the room during the second half).

PastPaper.markingScheme

(a)
- Calculate energy supplied by heater using \(E = Pt\) (1)
- Calculate temperature change \(\Delta T = 45\text{ K}\) (1)
- Correct specific heat capacity [\(1600\text{ J kg}^{-1}\text{ K}^{-1}\)] (1)

(b)
- States that heat loss makes calculated value of \(c\) larger than true value (1)
- Explains that actual energy absorbed by block is less than measured electrical energy (1)
- Suggests suitable minimization method (e.g., lagging/insulation or starting below room temperature) (1)
- Gives detail of selected method (e.g., how the cancellation of heat exchange works, or that insulating material has high resistance to heat flow) (1)
PastPaper.question 16 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
7.27 PastPaper.marks
A heavy pendulum undergoes oscillations in a physics laboratory. The system can be studied under various conditions of driving force and damping.

(a) Distinguish between free oscillations and forced oscillations.

(b) State what is meant by resonance. Describe how the amplitude of the pendulum changes as the frequency of a driving force is increased from well below to well above its natural frequency.

(c) Describe and explain how the addition of a damping force affects the shape of the resonance curve.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) Free oscillations occur when a system is initially displaced and then allowed to oscillate without any external driving force; it oscillates at its own natural frequency. Forced oscillations occur when a periodic external driving force acts on the system, forcing it to vibrate at the frequency of the driving force.

(b) Resonance occurs when the driving frequency is equal to the natural frequency of the system, resulting in a maximum transfer of energy and a maximum amplitude of oscillation. As driving frequency increases from below natural frequency, the amplitude starts small, increases to a sharp maximum peak at the natural frequency, and then decreases back to a low value at higher frequencies.

(c) Heavy damping reduces the maximum amplitude at the resonant frequency. It also broadens the resonance curve (making the peak less sharp) and shifts the resonant frequency peak slightly to a lower frequency.

PastPaper.markingScheme

(a)
- Free oscillations: system displaced and oscillates at its natural frequency with no external periodic force (1)
- Forced oscillations: system driven by an external periodic force at the driver's frequency (1)

(b)
- Resonance defined as driving frequency matching natural frequency resulting in maximum amplitude (1)
- Amplitude starts small, peaks at natural frequency, and decreases thereafter (1)

(c)
- Damping reduces maximum peak amplitude (1)
- Damping broadens the resonance curve peak (1)
- Damping shifts the resonant peak to a slightly lower frequency (1)
PastPaper.question 17 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
7.27 PastPaper.marks
A line in the emission spectrum of hydrogen from a distant galaxy is measured to have a wavelength of \(672.1\text{ nm}\). In the laboratory, the same spectral line has a wavelength of \(656.3\text{ nm}\).

(a) Calculate the redshift \(z\) of the galaxy and its recession velocity.

(b) Calculate the distance to this galaxy, using a Hubble constant of \(67.8\text{ km s}^{-1}\text{ Mpc}^{-1}\). Give your answer in both megaparsecs (Mpc) and meters (m).

(Take \(1\text{ pc} = 3.09 \times 10^{16}\text{ m}\))
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

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

Redshift \(z\):
\(z = \frac{\Delta \lambda}{\lambda_0} = \frac{15.8\text{ nm}}{656.3\text{ nm}} = 0.02407 \approx 0.0241\)

Recession velocity \(v\):
\(v = z c = 0.02407 \times 3.00 \times 10^8\text{ m s}^{-1} = 7.221 \times 10^6\text{ m s}^{-1}\) (or \(7220\text{ km s}^{-1}\))

(b) Using Hubble's Law \(v = H_0 d\):
\(d = \frac{v}{H_0} = \frac{7221\text{ km s}^{-1}}{67.8\text{ km s}^{-1}\text{ Mpc}^{-1}} = 106.5\text{ Mpc} \approx 107\text{ Mpc}\)

Converting to meters:
\(d = 106.5 \times 10^6\text{ pc} \times (3.09 \times 10^{16}\text{ m/pc}) = 3.29 \times 10^{24}\text{ m}\)

PastPaper.markingScheme

(a)
- Use of \(z = \frac{\Delta \lambda}{\lambda}\) (1)
- Correct value for redshift \(z = 0.024\) (1)
- Use of \(v = zc\) to get recession velocity [\(7.2 \times 10^6\text{ m s}^{-1}\) or \(7200\text{ km s}^{-1}\)] (1)

(b)
- Use of Hubble's Law \(v = H_0 d\) (1)
- Correct calculation of distance in Mpc [106 to 107 Mpc] (1)
- Use of conversion factor to meters (1)
- Correct distance in meters [\(3.3 \times 10^{24}\text{ m}\)] (1)
PastPaper.question 18 · Structured Calculations and Explanations
7.27 PastPaper.marks
In a potential future nuclear fusion reactor, deuterium (\(^{2}_{1}\text{H}\)) and tritium (\(^{3}_{1}\text{H}\)) nuclei fuse to form a helium-4 (\(^{4}_{2}\text{He}\)) nucleus and a neutron (\(^{1}_{0}\text{n}\)).

The masses of the particles are:
- Mass of \(^{2}_{1}\text{H} = 2.014102\text{ u}\)
- Mass of \(^{3}_{1}\text{H} = 3.016049\text{ u}\)
- Mass of \(^{4}_{2}\text{He} = 4.002603\text{ u}\)
- Mass of \(^{1}_{0}\text{n} = 1.008665\text{ u}\)

(a) Calculate the mass defect of this fusion reaction in kilograms.

(b) Calculate the energy released during this single fusion reaction in MeV.

(Take \(1\text{ u} = 1.66 \times 10^{-27}\text{ kg}\) and \(1\text{ eV} = 1.60 \times 10^{-19}\text{ J}\))
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) Total mass of reactants:
\(m_{\text{reactants}} = 2.014102\text{ u} + 3.016049\text{ u} = 5.030151\text{ u}\)

Total mass of products:
\(m_{\text{products}} = 4.002603\text{ u} + 1.008665\text{ u} = 5.011268\text{ u}\)

Mass defect in atomic mass units:
\(\Delta m = 5.030151\text{ u} - 5.011268\text{ u} = 0.018883\text{ u}\)

Mass defect in kilograms:
\(\Delta m = 0.018883 \times 1.66 \times 10^{-27}\text{ kg} = 3.1346 \times 10^{-29}\text{ kg} \approx 3.13 \times 10^{-29}\text{ kg}\)

(b) Energy released in Joules:
\(E = \Delta m c^2 = (3.1346 \times 10^{-29}\text{ kg}) \times (3.00 \times 10^8\text{ m/s})^2 = 2.8211 \times 10^{-12}\text{ J}\)

Energy in MeV:
\(E = \frac{2.8211 \times 10^{-12}\text{ J}}{1.60 \times 10^{-13}\text{ J/MeV}} = 17.63\text{ MeV} \approx 17.6\text{ MeV}\)

(Alternatively using \(931.5\text{ MeV/u}\):
\(E = 0.018883 \times 931.5\text{ MeV} = 17.59\text{ MeV}\))

PastPaper.markingScheme

(a)
- Calculate reactant and product masses (1)
- Calculate mass defect in u [0.01888 u] (1)
- Convert mass defect to kg [\(3.13 \times 10^{-29}\text{ kg}\)] (1)

(b)
- Use of \(E = \Delta m c^2\) (1)
- Calculation of energy in Joules [\(2.82 \times 10^{-12}\text{ J}\)] (1)
- Division by conversion factor to obtain eV or MeV (1)
- Correct final energy value in range [17.5 to 17.7 MeV] (1)
PastPaper.question 19 · Structured
7.27 PastPaper.marks
A rigid canister of volume \(0.0210\text{ m}^3\) contains helium gas at a pressure of \(1.20 \times 10^5\text{ Pa}\) and a temperature of \(293\text{ K}\). Helium behaves as an ideal monoatomic gas.

(a) Show that the number of helium atoms in the canister is approximately \(6.2 \times 10^{23}\).

(b) The gas is heated until its pressure increases to \(1.80 \times 10^5\text{ Pa}\) while the volume remains constant. Calculate the change in the total kinetic energy of the helium atoms.

(c) Explain, in terms of the kinetic theory of gases, why the pressure of the gas increases when it is heated at constant volume.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) Using the ideal gas equation:
\(pV = N k_B T\)
\(N = \frac{pV}{k_B T} = \frac{1.20 \times 10^5\text{ Pa} \times 0.0210\text{ m}^3}{1.38 \times 10^{-23}\text{ J K}^{-1} \times 293\text{ K}}\)
\(N = \frac{2520}{4.0434 \times 10^{-21}} = 6.23 \times 10^{23} \approx 6.2 \times 10^{23}\) atoms.

(b) Since volume is constant, the change in temperature \(\Delta T\) is proportional to the change in pressure \(\Delta p\).
\(T_2 = T_1 \times \frac{p_2}{p_1} = 293\text{ K} \times \frac{1.80 \times 10^5}{1.20 \times 10^5} = 439.5\text{ K}\)
\(\Delta T = 439.5\text{ K} - 293\text{ K} = 146.5\text{ K}\)

The change in total kinetic energy of a monoatomic gas is given by:
\(\Delta E_k = \frac{3}{2} N k_B \Delta T\)
\(\Delta E_k = 1.5 \times 6.23 \times 10^{23} \times 1.38 \times 10^{-23}\text{ J K}^{-1} \times 146.5\text{ K} = 1890\text{ J}\)
(Alternatively: \(\Delta E_k = \frac{3}{2} V \Delta p = 1.5 \times 0.0210\text{ m}^3 \times (1.80 \times 10^5 - 1.20 \times 10^5)\text{ Pa} = 1890\text{ J}\))

(c) As temperature increases, the mean kinetic energy of the helium atoms increases, so they move with higher root-mean-square speeds. This results in more frequent collisions with the walls of the canister, and each collision involves a larger change in momentum. Therefore, the average force exerted on the walls increases, leading to an increase in pressure.

PastPaper.markingScheme

(a) [2 Marks]
- Use of \(pV = N k_B T\) with correct substitution of values (1)
- Correct calculation to yield \(6.23 \times 10^{23}\) (1)

(b) [3 Marks]
- Correct identification of \(\Delta T = 146.5\text{ K}\) (or \(T_2 = 439.5\text{ K}\)) OR use of relation \(\Delta E_k = 1.5 V \Delta p\) (1)
- Substitution of values into total kinetic energy formula \(\Delta E_k = 1.5 N k_B \Delta T\) or \(\Delta E_k = 1.5 V \Delta p\) (1)
- Correct final value of \(1890\text{ J}\) (accept range \(1880\text{ J}\) to \(1900\text{ J}\)) (1)

(c) [2 Marks]
- Identifies that higher temperature means higher average speed/kinetic energy of molecules (1)
- Explains that this leads to more frequent collisions with walls AND a greater change in momentum per collision (hence greater force/pressure) (1)
PastPaper.question 20 · Structured
7.27 PastPaper.marks
A block of mass \(0.350\text{ kg}\) is attached to a horizontal spring and undergoes simple harmonic motion on a frictionless surface. The maximum kinetic energy of the block is \(0.450\text{ J}\), and its maximum displacement from the equilibrium position is \(0.0800\text{ m}\).

(a) Determine the spring constant \(k\) of the spring.

(b) Calculate the frequency of the oscillations.

(c) Describe the appearance of a velocity-time graph for the block over one complete oscillation, starting from maximum positive displacement at \(t = 0\). Your description must state the starting velocity, shape of the curve, the time period of oscillation, and the maximum speed achieved.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) The maximum kinetic energy is equal to the maximum elastic potential energy stored in the spring:
\(E_{\text{max}} = \frac{1}{2} k A^2\)
\(0.450\text{ J} = \frac{1}{2} k (0.0800\text{ m})^2\)
\(0.450 = 0.00320 k\)
\(k = \frac{0.450}{0.00320} = 141\text{ N m}^{-1}\)

(b) The angular frequency is:
\(\omega = \sqrt{\frac{k}{m}} = \sqrt{\frac{140.6}{0.350}} = 20.0\text{ rad s}^{-1}\)
Frequency is:
\(f = \frac{\omega}{2\pi} = \frac{20.0}{2\pi} = 3.19\text{ Hz}\)

(c) At \(t = 0\), the displacement is at its maximum positive value, so the velocity is zero. As the block moves towards the equilibrium position, its velocity becomes negative. The velocity-time curve is a negative sine wave:
- Shape: Negative sine curve starting at \(v = 0\).
- Time period: \(T = \frac{1}{f} = \frac{1}{3.19\text{ Hz}} = 0.313\text{ s}\) for one complete cycle.
- Peak velocity: \(v_{\text{max}} = \omega A = 20.04 \times 0.0800 = 1.60\text{ m s}^{-1}\). The velocity oscillates between \(-1.60\text{ m s}^{-1}\) and \(+1.60\text{ m s}^{-1}\).

PastPaper.markingScheme

(a) [2 Marks]
- Equates maximum kinetic energy to maximum potential energy, \(E = 0.5 k A^2\) (1)
- Correct calculation of \(k = 141\text{ N m}^{-1}\) (accept \(140.6\text{ N m}^{-1}\)) (1)

(b) [2 Marks]
- Correct use of \(\omega = \sqrt{\frac{k}{m}}\)
(or \(T = 2\pi \sqrt{\frac{m}{k}}\)) (1)
- Correct calculation of frequency \(f = 3.19\text{ Hz}\) (accept range \(3.18\text{ Hz}\) to \(3.20\text{ Hz}\)) (1)

(c) [3 Marks]
- States that the graph starts at \(v = 0\) and follows a negative sine curve shape (1)
- Calculates and states the period \(T = 0.313\text{ s}\) (1)
- Calculates and states the maximum speed \(v_{\text{max}} = 1.60\text{ m s}^{-1}\) (1)
PastPaper.question 21 · Structured
7.27 PastPaper.marks
Alpha Centauri A is a main sequence star with a surface temperature of \(5790\text{ K}\) and a luminosity of \(1.52\text{ L}_{\odot}\), where \(\text{L}_{\odot} = 3.83 \times 10^{26}\text{ W}\) is the luminosity of the Sun.

(a) Show that the radius of Alpha Centauri A is approximately \(8.5 \times 10^8\text{ m}\).

(b) Calculate the peak emission wavelength \(\lambda_{\text{max}}\) for Alpha Centauri A.

(c) Suppose the absorption spectra of a similar star in a distant galaxy are analyzed. Explain why the absorption lines are shifted towards longer wavelengths.
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) First, calculate the luminosity of Alpha Centauri A:
\(L = 1.52 \times 3.83 \times 10^{26}\text{ W} = 5.822 \times 10^{26}\text{ W}\)

Using Stefan-Boltzmann's Law:
\(L = 4\pi R^2 \sigma T^4\)

Rearranging for radius \(R\):
\(R = \sqrt{\frac{L}{4\pi \sigma T^4}}\)
\(R = \sqrt{\frac{5.822 \times 10^{26}}{4 \times \pi \times 5.67 \times 10^{-8}\text{ W m}^{-2}\text{ K}^{-4} \times (5790\text{ K})^4}}\)
\(R = \sqrt{\frac{5.822 \times 10^{26}}{8.006 \times 10^8}} = \sqrt{7.272 \times 10^{17}} = 8.53 \times 10^8\text{ m}\)
Which is approximately \(8.5 \times 10^8\text{ m}\).

(b) Using Wien's displacement law:
\(\lambda_{\text{max}} T = 2.898 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m K}\)
\(\lambda_{\text{max}} = \frac{2.898 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m K}}{5790\text{ K}} = 5.01 \times 10^{-7}\text{ m}\) (or \(501\text{ nm}\))

(c) The absorption lines of distant galaxies are shifted to longer wavelengths (redshifted) because the galaxies are moving away from Earth. This motion causes the wavefronts of the emitted light to be stretched out (cosmological expansion / Doppler effect), increasing the wavelength observed by astronomers on Earth.

PastPaper.markingScheme

(a) [3 Marks]
- Correct calculation of luminosity \(L = 5.82 \times 10^{26}\text{ W}\) (1)
- Rearrangement of Stefan's Law to make \(R\) the subject: \(R = \sqrt{\frac{L}{4\pi\sigma T^4}}\) (1)
- Correct substitution and calculation to show \(R \approx 8.5 \times 10^8\text{ m}\) (1)

(b) [2 Marks]
- Use of Wien's displacement law \(\lambda_{\text{max}} T = 2.898 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m K}\) (1)
- Correct calculation of \(\lambda_{\text{max}} = 5.01 \times 10^{-7}\text{ m}\) (accept range \(5.0 \times 10^{-7}\text{ m}\) to \(5.1 \times 10^{-7}\text{ m}\)) (1)

(c) [2 Marks]
- Identifies that the galaxy is moving away from Earth (or space is expanding) (1)
- Explains that this causes a Doppler shift / stretching of wavelengths towards the red end (redshift) (1)

PastPaper.section Unit 6: Practical Skills in Physics II

Answer ALL questions. Comprises 4 advanced practical skills design, analysis, and evaluation questions.
4 PastPaper.question · 50 PastPaper.marks
PastPaper.question 1 · Practical Investigation and Evaluation
12.5 PastPaper.marks
A student investigates the relationship between the resonant length \( L \) of an air column closed at one end and the frequency \( f \) of a tuning fork.

The relationship is given by:

\[ L + e = \frac{v}{4f} \]

where \( e \) is the end correction of the tube and \( v \) is the speed of sound.

The student is provided with tuning forks of various known frequencies, a resonance tube, a measuring cylinder of water to vary the air column length, and a metre rule.

(a) Describe how the student can obtain accurate measurements of the resonant length \( L \). [3]

(b) State the quantities to be plotted on the axes of a graph to obtain a straight line. Describe how the speed of sound \( v \) and the end correction \( e \) can be determined from the gradient and the y-intercept of this graph. [4]

(c) The student obtains the following data:
- For \( f = 256 \text{ Hz} \), the resonant length \( L = 30.5 \text{ cm} \)
- For \( f = 512 \text{ Hz} \), the resonant length \( L = 14.4 \text{ cm} \)

Calculate the gradient of the graph of \( L \) against \( 1/f \) using these two data points. Hence, determine the speed of sound \( v \). [3]

(d) Explain one major source of uncertainty in the measurement of \( L \) and suggest how it could be minimized. [2.5]
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) To measure the resonant length \( L \) accurately:
- Strike the tuning fork on a rubber pad and hold it horizontally just above the open end of the tube.
- Slowly adjust the height of the tube in the water until the sound intensity reaches a clear maximum (resonance).
- Read the level of the water surface and the top of the tube using a metre rule, ensuring the eye is level with the meniscus/top to avoid parallax error. Repeat and take average values.

(b) Plot \( L \) on the vertical y-axis and \( 1/f \) on the horizontal x-axis.
Rearranging the equation yields:
\( L = \frac{v}{4} \left( \frac{1}{f} \right) - e \)
- The gradient \( m \) of the straight line is equal to \( \frac{v}{4} \), so the speed of sound is determined by \( v = 4 \times \text{gradient} \).
- The y-intercept of the line is equal to \( -e \), so the end correction \( e \) is equal to the magnitude of the negative y-intercept.

(c) Convert frequencies and lengths to standard units:
- For \( f_1 = 256 \text{ Hz} \), \( 1/f_1 = \frac{1}{256} = 3.91 \times 10^{-3} \text{ s} \), \( L_1 = 0.305 \text{ m} \)
- For \( f_2 = 512 \text{ Hz} \), \( 1/f_2 = \frac{1}{512} = 1.95 \times 10^{-3} \text{ s} \), \( L_2 = 0.144 \text{ m} \)

\( \text{Gradient} = \frac{L_1 - L_2}{1/f_1 - 1/f_2} = \frac{0.305 - 0.144}{3.91 \times 10^{-3} - 1.95 \times 10^{-3}} = \frac{0.161}{1.96 \times 10^{-3}} = 82.14 \text{ m s} \) (or \( 82.4 \text{ m s} \) using unrounded values)

Using \( v = 4 \times \text{gradient} \):
\( v = 4 \times 82.14 \approx 329 \text{ m s}^{-1} \) (or \( 330 \text{ m s}^{-1} \) to 2 or 3 s.f.).

(d) The major source of uncertainty is locating the exact point of maximum resonance by ear. The sound intensity might appear constant over a small range of lengths.
To minimize this: move the tube up and down through the resonance point several times to narrow down the range, or use a microphone connected to an oscilloscope/sound-level meter to identify the peak amplitude objectively.

PastPaper.markingScheme

(a)
- MP1: Hold vibrating tuning fork close to/just above the top of the tube. (1)
- MP2: Move tube slowly to identify peak loudness/resonance. (1)
- MP3: Measure from water level to top of tube, using a set square to ensure the rule is vertical / avoid parallax. (1)

(b)
- MP1: Plot \( L \) on y-axis and \( 1/f \) on x-axis. (1)
- MP2: State that \( L = \frac{v}{4}\left(\frac{1}{f}\right) - e \) corresponds to \( y = mx + c \). (1)
- MP3: State that gradient \( m = v/4 \implies v = 4m \). (1)
- MP4: State that y-intercept \( c = -e \). (1)

(c)
- MP1: Correctly calculate both values of \( 1/f \) (i.e. \( 3.91 \times 10^{-3} \) and \( 1.95 \times 10^{-3} \)). (1)
- MP2: Calculate gradient to be in the range \( 81.5 - 83.0 \text{ m s} \). (1)
- MP3: Multiply gradient by 4 to obtain speed of sound \( v \approx 326 - 332 \text{ m s}^{-1} \) with correct units. (1)

(d)
- MP1: Identify that judging maximum loudness by ear is subjective / hard to pinpoint. (1)
- MP2: Suggest using a microphone with an oscilloscope/sound-level meter. (1)
- MP3: Detail that the peak on the display indicates the precise resonant length (0.5)
PastPaper.question 2 · Practical Investigation and Evaluation
12.5 PastPaper.marks
A student investigates the magnetic flux density \( B \) between the poles of a U-shaped magnet using a current balance.

A horizontal, stiff wire of length \( L = 5.0 \pm 0.1 \text{ cm} \) is placed perpendicular to the magnetic field. The magnet assembly is placed on a digital top-pan balance. When a current \( I \) passes through the wire, the balance shows an apparent change in mass \( \Delta m \).

The relation is given by:

\[ B I L = \Delta m \cdot g \]

where \( g = 9.81 \text{ m s}^{-2} \).

(a) Draw a labelled diagram of the experimental setup required to carry out this investigation, including the electrical circuit details. [3]

(b) State how the student can ensure that the force measured on the balance is purely due to the magnetic field, and describe how they should vary the independent variable safely. [3]

(c) In one measurement, the current is recorded as \( I = 4.00 \pm 0.05 \text{ A} \), and the balance shows an apparent mass increase of \( \Delta m = 2.45 \pm 0.02 \text{ g} \). Calculate the magnetic flux density \( B \). [3.5]

(d) Determine the percentage uncertainty in the calculated value of \( B \). [3]
PastPaper.showAnswers

PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) The diagram should show:
- A U-shaped magnet on a digital balance.
- A stiff wire passing between the magnet's poles without touching them, supported by independent retort stands.
- A circuit loop containing the wire, connected in series with a variable DC power supply (or a cell and a rheostat), an ammeter, and a switch.

(b) To ensure the force is purely due to the magnetic field:
- The wire must not touch the magnet or the balance pan.
- Ensure no magnetic materials (like iron stands) are placed close to the setup.
- Zero (tare) the digital balance before turning on the current to ensure only the change in mass \( \Delta m \) due to the magnetic force is measured.
- To vary current safely: adjust the rheostat / power supply to vary current, but keep the current switched off between readings to prevent heating of the wire, which would change its resistance and risk damage.

(c) First, calculate force \( F = \Delta m \cdot g \):
\( F = 2.45 \times 10^{-3} \text{ kg} \times 9.81 \text{ m s}^{-2} = 0.02403 \text{ N} \)

Using \( B = \frac{F}{I L} = \frac{\Delta m \cdot g}{I L} \):
\( B = \frac{2.45 \times 10^{-3} \times 9.81}{4.00 \times 0.050} \)
\( B = \frac{0.02403}{0.200} = 0.12015 \text{ T} \approx 0.120 \text{ T} \)

(d) Calculate the percentage uncertainties:
- For mass: \( \% \Delta(\Delta m) = \frac{0.02}{2.45} \times 100\% = 0.816\% \)
- For current: \( \% \Delta I = \frac{0.05}{4.00} \times 100\% = 1.25\% \)
- For length: \( \% \Delta L = \frac{0.1}{5.0} \times 100\% = 2.00\% \)

Assuming the uncertainty in \( g \) is negligible:
Total percentage uncertainty in \( B = \% \Delta(\Delta m) + \% \Delta I + \% \Delta L \)
\( \text{Total } \% \text{ uncertainty} = 0.816\% + 1.25\% + 2.00\% = 4.066\% \approx 4.1\% \)

PastPaper.markingScheme

(a)
- MP1: Magnet on balance pan clearly separated from the wire. (1)
- MP2: Wire held horizontally between the poles of the magnet. (1)
- MP3: Electrical circuit showing variable power supply/rheostat, ammeter, and switch in series with the wire. (1)

(b)
- MP1: Mention taring/zeroing the balance before turning on the current. (1)
- MP2: Ensure wire does not contact any part of the magnet or balance. (1)
- MP3: Turn current off between readings / keep current small to avoid overheating of the wire. (1)

(c)
- MP1: Convert \( \Delta m \) to kg (i.e., \( 2.45 \times 10^{-3} \text{ kg} \)) and \( L \) to m (i.e., \( 0.050 \text{ m} \)). (1)
- MP2: Correct calculation of force \( F = 0.024 \text{ N} \). (1)
- MP3: Correct calculation of \( B = 0.120 \text{ T} \) (accept answers to 2 or 3 s.f.). (1)
- MP4: Unit of magnetic flux density given correctly as Tesla (T) or \( \text{N A}^{-1} \text{ m}^{-1} \). (0.5)

(d)
- MP1: Correctly calculate the individual percentage uncertainty of at least one quantity. (1)
- MP2: Show the sum of the individual percentage uncertainties (ignoring \( g \)). (1)
- MP3: State correct final percentage uncertainty of \( 4.1\% \) (accept \( 4.07\% \)). (1)
PastPaper.question 3 · Practical Investigation and Evaluation
12.5 PastPaper.marks
A student designs an experiment to measure the specific heat capacity \( c \) of an aluminium block of mass \( m = 1.00 \text{ kg} \). An electrical immersion heater of power \( P \) is inserted into the block along with a digital thermometer.

(a) Describe the practical steps the student should take to minimize heat loss from the block to the surroundings. [3]

(b) The energy supplied to the block is given by \( E = P t \). Explain why plotting a graph of temperature \( \theta \) against time \( t \) is superior to using a single pair of temperature and time measurements to calculate \( c \). [2.5]

(c) The power of the heater is constant at \( P = 48.0 \text{ W} \). The gradient of the linear region of the temperature-time graph is \( 0.0533 \text{ }^{\circ}\text{C s}^{-1} \).

Calculate the specific heat capacity \( c \) of the aluminium block, assuming no heat is lost to the surroundings. [3.5]

(d) In reality, the thermometer, heater, and some surrounding insulation also absorb heat. Explain how this systematic error affects the calculated value of the specific heat capacity of the block. [3.5]
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PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) To minimize heat loss:
- Wrap the aluminium block in an insulating jacket (e.g., polystyrene or bubble wrap).
- Place the block on an insulating tile rather than a metal bench.
- Put a drop of thermal paste or oil in the thermometer and heater holes to improve thermal contact and speed up heat transfer to the block.

(b) A graph of \( \theta \) against \( t \) is better because:
- It allows the student to identify and exclude the initial non-linear region (before steady heating is established) and the late region (where heat loss is dominant).
- It averages out random fluctuations in temperature readings.
- The gradient of the linear portion gives a more reliable rate of temperature change than a single calculation.

(c) The thermal energy conservation equation is:
\( P = m c \frac{\Delta \theta}{\Delta t} \)

Since the gradient of the graph of \( \theta \) against \( t \) is \( \frac{\Delta \theta}{\Delta t} \):
\( P = m c \times \text{gradient} \)

Rearranging to find \( c \):
\( c = \frac{P}{m \times \text{gradient}} \)
\( c = \frac{48.0 \text{ W}}{1.00 \text{ kg} \times 0.0533 \text{ }^{\circ}\text{C s}^{-1}} \)
\( c = 900.56 \text{ J kg}^{-1} \text{ }^{\circ}\text{C}^{-1} \approx 901 \text{ J kg}^{-1} \text{ }^{\circ}\text{C}^{-1} \)

(d) The energy delivered by the heater goes into heating both the block and its surroundings (insulator, heater, thermometer):
\( P t = (m c + C_{\text{other}}) \Delta \theta \)
where \( C_{\text{other}} \) is the heat capacity of the other components.

If we assume all energy goes into the block alone (i.e. \( P t = m c_{\text{calculated}} \Delta \theta \)), then:
\( c_{\text{calculated}} = c_{\text{true}} + \frac{C_{\text{other}}}{m} \)

Therefore, the calculated specific heat capacity will be larger than the true value of the aluminium block, as the temperature rise for a given energy input is smaller than expected.

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(a)
- MP1: Insulate the outer surface of the block using a poor conductor (e.g. cotton wool, bubble wrap). (1)
- MP2: Place the block on a heat-proof/insulating mat to prevent conduction to the table. (1)
- MP3: Use oil/glycerine in the thermometer/heater holes to improve thermal contact. (1)

(b)
- MP1: Graph allows anomalous data points/non-linear start-up phase to be identified and ignored. (1)
- MP2: Gradient uses multiple data points, reducing random error. (1)
- MP3: Correctly relates the gradient to the rate of temperature rise. (0.5)

(c)
- MP1: Use the correct relationship \( P = m c (\Delta \theta / \Delta t) \). (1)
- MP2: Identify that \( \Delta \theta / \Delta t \) is the gradient. (1)
- MP3: Substitution of values: \( c = 48.0 / (1.00 \times 0.0533) \). (1)
- MP4: Correct evaluation with units: \( 901 \text{ J kg}^{-1} \text{ }^{\circ}\text{C}^{-1} \) (accept \( 900 \text{ J kg}^{-1} \text{ K}^{-1} \)). (0.5)

(d)
- MP1: State that some electrical energy is absorbed by the heater/thermometer/insulation. (1)
- MP2: Explain that the actual temperature rise \( \Delta \theta \) of the block is less than it would be if only the block absorbed the heat. (1)
- MP3: Conclude that the calculated value of \( c \) is larger than the true value. (1)
- MP4: Clear linkage using the rearranged formula or heat equation. (0.5)
PastPaper.question 4 · Practical Investigation and Evaluation
12.5 PastPaper.marks
A student measures the activity of a short-lived radioactive source to determine its half-life. A Geiger-Muller (GM) tube connected to a scaler is used to record the count rate.

(a) Explain why a background count must be measured, and how it is used to obtain the corrected count rate. [3]

(b) The equation for radioactive decay is given by:

\[ C = C_0 e^{-\lambda t} \]

where \( C \) is the corrected count rate, \( C_0 \) is the initial corrected count rate, and \( \lambda \) is the decay constant.

Show that a graph of \( \ln C \) against time \( t \) is a straight line, and explain how the decay constant \( \lambda \) can be determined from this graph. [3]

(c) The student records the following corrected count rates:
- At \( t = 0 \text{ s} \), \( C = 120 \text{ s}^{-1} \)
- At \( t = 100 \text{ s} \), \( C = 35 \text{ s}^{-1} \)

Calculate the decay constant \( \lambda \) and use this to find the half-life \( t_{1/2} \) of the isotope. [4]

(d) Explain one safety precaution the student must take when handling radioactive sources in this experiment. [2.5]
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PastPaper.workedSolution

(a) Background radiation is always present due to cosmic rays, rocks, and nuclear waste. This must be measured over a long period (e.g. 10 minutes) with no source present to find the average background count rate.
The corrected count rate is calculated by subtracting this background count rate from each measured count rate.

(b) Taking natural logarithms on both sides of \( C = C_0 e^{-\lambda t} \):
\( \ln C = \ln(C_0 e^{-\lambda t}) \)
\( \ln C = \ln C_0 + \ln(e^{-\lambda t}) \)
\( \ln C = -\lambda t + \ln C_0 \)

This is in the linear form \( y = mx + c \), where:
- \( y = \ln C \)
- \( x = t \)
- \( m = -\lambda \) (the gradient)
- \( c = \ln C_0 \) (the y-intercept)

Therefore, the decay constant \( \lambda \) is equal to \( -\text{gradient} \).

(c) Calculate the natural logs:
- At \( t_1 = 0 \text{ s} \), \( \ln C_1 = \ln(120) = 4.787 \)
- At \( t_2 = 100 \text{ s} \), \( \ln C_2 = \ln(35) = 3.555 \)

\( \text{Gradient} = \frac{\ln C_2 - \ln C_1}{t_2 - t_1} = \frac{3.555 - 4.787}{100 - 0} = \frac{-1.232}{100} = -0.01232 \text{ s}^{-1} \)

Since \( \text{Gradient} = -\lambda \):
\( \lambda = 0.0123 \text{ s}^{-1} \)

The half-life \( t_{1/2} \) is:
\( t_{1/2} = \frac{\ln 2}{\lambda} = \frac{0.693}{0.01232 \text{ s}^{-1}} \approx 56.3 \text{ s} \)

(d) Safety precautions:
- Use long tongs to handle the source to maximize distance and reduce intensity of exposure.
- Keep the source in its lead-lined storage container when not actively taking measurements.
- Do not point the source towards anyone.

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(a)
- MP1: State that background radiation is present naturally / from cosmic rays etc. (1)
- MP2: Measure background count rate over a long period in the absence of the source. (1)
- MP3: State that corrected count rate = measured count rate minus background count rate. (1)

(b)
- MP1: Correctly apply log rules to obtain \( \ln C = -\lambda t + \ln C_0 \). (1)
- MP2: Match the equation to \( y = mx + c \) to show it's a straight line. (1)
- MP3: State that the decay constant \( \lambda = -\text{gradient} \). (1)

(c)
- MP1: Calculate the values of \( \ln(120) \) and \( \ln(35) \) (or equivalent ratio method). (1)
- MP2: Calculate \( \lambda \approx 0.0123 \text{ s}^{-1} \) (accept \( 0.012 \text{ s}^{-1} \)). (1)
- MP3: Use \( t_{1/2} = \frac{\ln 2}{\lambda} \) correctly. (1)
- MP4: Calculate \( t_{1/2} \approx 56 \text{ s} \) with correct units. (1)

(d)
- MP1: Identify a valid precaution (e.g. use tongs, keep source far, point away). (1)
- MP2: Link the precaution to reducing dose / protecting body tissues. (1)
- MP3: Mention safety wear like safety glasses or keeping distance. (0.5)

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