An original Thinka practice paper modelled on the structure and difficulty of the Jan 2023 Cambridge International A Level Physics paper. Not affiliated with or reproduced from Cambridge.
Paper 1P
Answer all questions. Show all steps in your calculations and state the units.
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PastPaper.question 1 · Short Answer & Calculations
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A cyclist travels along a straight path. They start from rest and accelerate uniformly to a velocity of \(8.0\text{ m/s}\) in a time of \(5.0\text{ s}\). They then travel at this constant velocity of \(8.0\text{ m/s}\) for \(12.0\text{ s}\), before decelerating uniformly to rest in a further \(3.0\text{ s}\). (a) Calculate the acceleration of the cyclist during the first \(5.0\text{ s}\) of the journey. State the unit. (3 marks) (b) Calculate the total distance travelled by the cyclist during the entire \(20.0\text{ s}\) journey. (4 marks) (c) Calculate the average speed of the cyclist for the entire journey. (3 marks)
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PastPaper.workedSolution
(a) Use the formula: \(a = \frac{v - u}{t}\) where \(v = 8.0\text{ m/s}\), \(u = 0\text{ m/s}\), and \(t = 5.0\text{ s}\). \(a = \frac{8.0 - 0}{5.0} = 1.6\text{ m/s}^2\). (b) Total distance is the area under the velocity-time graph. The shape can be split into three sections: Area 1 (first triangle) = \(\frac{1}{2} \times 5.0 \times 8.0 = 20\text{ m}\); Area 2 (rectangle) = \(12.0 \times 8.0 = 96\text{ m}\); Area 3 (second triangle) = \(\frac{1}{2} \times 3.0 \times 8.0 = 12\text{ m}\). Total distance = \(20 + 96 + 12 = 128\text{ m}\). (c) Average speed = \(\frac{\text{total distance}}{\text{total time}} = \frac{128\text{ m}}{20.0\text{ s}} = 6.4\text{ m/s}\).
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(a) M1: recall and substitution into \(a = \frac{v-u}{t}\) (1); A1: 1.6 (1); B1: correct unit \(\text{m/s}^2\) (1). (b) M1: recognition that distance is the area under the graph (1); M2: correct calculation of at least one component area (1); M3: summing the component areas correctly (1); A1: 128 m (1). (c) M1: recall of average speed equation (1); M2: substitution of values: 128 / 20 (1); A1: 6.4 m/s (1).
PastPaper.question 2 · Short Answer & Calculations
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A parcel of mass \(1.5\text{ kg}\) is dropped from a shelf. It hits the ground at a velocity of \(6.0\text{ m/s}\) and comes to a complete stop in a collision lasting \(0.080\text{ s}\). (a) State the equation linking momentum, mass, and velocity. (1 mark) (b) Calculate the change in momentum of the parcel when it hits the ground. State the unit. (3 marks) (c) Calculate the average force exerted on the parcel during the impact. (3 marks) (d) Explain how packing material like bubble wrap inside the parcel box protects fragile items during a fall. Refer to forces, momentum, and impact time in your answer. (3 marks)
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(a) The equation is: \(\text{momentum} = \text{mass} \times \text{velocity}\) (or \(p = mv\)). (b) Change in momentum \(\Delta p = m \times (v - u) = 1.5\text{ kg} \times (0 - 6.0\text{ m/s}) = -9.0\text{ kg m/s}\) (magnitude is \(9.0\text{ kg m/s}\)). The unit is \(\text{kg m/s}\) or \(\text{N s}\). (c) Use the equation: \(\text{force} = \frac{\text{change in momentum}}{\text{time taken}}\). \(F = \frac{9.0\text{ kg m/s}}{0.080\text{ s}} = 112.5\text{ N}\) (accept \(110\text{ N}\)). (d) Bubble wrap is compressible, which increases the time taken for the parcel to come to rest during the collision. Since the change in momentum is constant, a longer collision time reduces the rate of change of momentum. Because force is equal to the rate of change of momentum, this reduces the average force experienced by the fragile items, preventing damage.
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(a) B1: correct equation in words or symbols (1). (b) M1: substitution of mass and velocity (1); A1: 9.0 (1); B1: correct unit \(\text{kg m/s}\) or \(\text{N s}\) (1). (c) M1: recall of \(F = \frac{\Delta p}{t}\) (1); M2: substitution of values (1); A1: 112.5 N (1). (d) B1: bubble wrap increases the collision/impact time (1); B1: same change in momentum occurs over a longer time (1); B1: this reduces the force experienced by the fragile items (1).
PastPaper.question 3 · Short Answer & Calculations
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A student measures the activity of a radioactive beta-emitting source in a laboratory. Over a period of time, they record the count rates using a Geiger-Müller detector. (a) Define the term 'half-life'. (2 marks) (b) Before the radioactive source is brought into the laboratory, the background count rate is measured as \(24\text{ counts per minute}\). When the source is placed near the detector, the total count rate is \(410\text{ counts per minute}\). After \(12.0\text{ hours}\), the total count rate is \(120\text{ counts per minute}\). Determine the half-life of this radioactive source. (5 marks) (c) State two natural sources of background radiation. (2 marks) (d) State one safety precaution the student should take when handling this source. (1 mark)
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(a) Half-life is the time taken for the activity of a radioactive sample to halve, or the time taken for the number of radioactive nuclei in a sample to halve. (b) 1. Initial source count rate = \(410 - 24 = 386\text{ counts per minute}\). 2. Final source count rate = \(120 - 24 = 96\text{ counts per minute}\). 3. Determine number of half-lives: after 1 half-life: \(386 / 2 = 193\); after 2 half-lives: \(193 / 2 = 96.5\) (approximately 96). Thus, 2 half-lives have passed in 12.0 hours. 4. Half-life = \(12.0 / 2 = 6.0\text{ hours}\). (c) Two natural sources are: radon gas from rocks/soil, and cosmic rays from space. (d) One safety precaution is to use tongs to handle the source to keep a safe distance.
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(a) B1: time taken for activity/count rate to halve (1); B1: or time taken for number of radioactive nuclei to halve (1). (b) M1: subtract background from initial count: \(410 - 24 = 386\) (1); M2: subtract background from final count: \(120 - 24 = 96\) (1); M3: recognise 2 half-lives have passed (1); M4: set up equation: \(2 \times t_{1/2} = 12.0\text{ hours}\) (1); A1: \(6.0\text{ hours}\) (1). (c) B1: radon gas (1); B1: cosmic rays (or food/rocks) (1). (d) B1: suitable precaution (e.g., use tongs, lead container, keep distance) (1).
PastPaper.question 4 · Short Answer & Calculations
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A student investigates the refraction of light through a semicircular glass block. (a) State the equation linking refractive index, angle of incidence, and angle of refraction. (1 mark) (b) A ray of light enters the flat face of the glass block from air with an angle of incidence of \(38.0^\circ\). The angle of refraction inside the glass is measured as \(24.0^\circ\). Calculate the refractive index of this glass block. Give your answer to 3 significant figures. (3 marks) (c) State the relationship linking critical angle and refractive index. (1 mark) (d) Calculate the critical angle for this glass block. Describe what happens to the ray of light if it hits the flat glass-to-air boundary from inside the block at an angle of incidence of \(50.0^\circ\). (5 marks)
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(a) The equation is \(n = \frac{\sin i}{\sin r}\). (b) \(n = \frac{\sin(38.0^\circ)}{\sin(24.0^\circ)} = \frac{0.61566}{0.40674} \approx 1.51\). (c) The relationship is \(\sin c = \frac{1}{n}\). (d) \(\sin c = \frac{1}{1.51} \approx 0.66225\), so \(c = \sin^{-1}(0.66225) \approx 41.5^\circ\). Since the angle of incidence (\(50.0^\circ\)) is greater than the critical angle (\(41.5^\circ\)), total internal reflection (TIR) occurs. The ray of light does not escape into the air and is entirely reflected back into the glass block at an angle of reflection of \(50.0^\circ\).
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(a) B1: \(n = \frac{\sin i}{\sin r}\) (1). (b) M1: substitution of correct angles (1); M2: evaluation of sines (1); A1: 1.51 (must be 3 s.f.) (1). (c) B1: \(\sin c = \frac{1}{n}\) (1). (d) M1: substitution of calculated n value (1); A1: \(c = 41.5^\circ\) (allow \(41.0^\circ - 42.0^\circ\)) (1); B1: state that angle of incidence is greater than critical angle (1); B1: state that total internal reflection (TIR) occurs (1); B1: state that light reflects inside the block (1).
PastPaper.question 5 · Short Answer & Calculations
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An electric motor is used to lift a crate of mass \(45.0\text{ kg}\) vertically upwards through a height of \(12.0\text{ m}\). (a) State the equation linking gravitational potential energy (\(\text{GPE}\)), mass, gravitational field strength (\(g\)), and height. (1 mark) (b) Calculate the useful work done in lifting the crate. (Take \(g = 10\text{ N/kg}\)) State the unit. (3 marks) (c) The electric motor is supplied with \(7.20\text{ kJ}\) of electrical energy to perform this lift. State the equation linking efficiency, useful energy output, and total energy input, and calculate the efficiency of the motor. (3 marks) (d) Explain what happens to the wasted energy in this system. (3 marks)
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PastPaper.workedSolution
(a) The equation is \(\text{GPE} = m \times g \times h\). (b) \(\text{GPE} = 45.0\text{ kg} \times 10\text{ N/kg} \times 12.0\text{ m} = 5400\text{ J}\). The useful work done is equal to this increase in GPE, which is \(5400\text{ J}\) (or \(5.4\text{ kJ}\)). (c) \(\text{efficiency} = \frac{\text{useful energy output}}{\text{total energy input}}\). Given \(\text{total energy input} = 7.20\text{ kJ} = 7200\text{ J}\), \(\text{efficiency} = \frac{5400}{7200} = 0.75\) (or \(75\%\)). (d) The wasted energy is transferred to the surroundings as thermal energy (by heating) and sound energy. This is caused by friction in the moving parts of the motor and electrical resistance in the windings. This energy becomes dissipated (spread out) and is less useful.
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(a) B1: \(\text{GPE} = mgh\) (1). (b) M1: substitution of values: \(45 \times 10 \times 12\) (1); A1: 5400 (1); B1: correct unit \(\text{J}\) or Joules (1). (c) B1: recall of efficiency equation (1); M1: conversion of 7.20 kJ and substitution: \(\frac{5400}{7200}\) (1); A1: 0.75 or 75% (1). (d) B1: thermal energy/sound produced (1); B1: dissipated/spread out to surroundings (1); B1: due to friction/electrical resistance (1).
PastPaper.question 6 · Short Answer & Calculations
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A simple circuit is constructed containing a \(9.0\text{ V}\) battery, a fixed resistor of resistance \(12\ \Omega\), and a thermistor connected in series. (a) State the equation linking voltage, current, and resistance. (1 mark) (b) At room temperature, the resistance of the thermistor is \(18\ \Omega\). Calculate: (i) the total resistance of the circuit. (1 mark) (ii) the current flowing through the circuit. State the unit. (3 marks) (c) Calculate the voltage (potential difference) across the thermistor at room temperature. (2 marks) (d) The temperature of the thermistor is now increased. Describe and explain what happens to the reading on a voltmeter connected across the fixed \(12\ \Omega\) resistor. (3 marks)
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PastPaper.workedSolution
(a) The equation is \(V = I \times R\). (b) (i) In series, total resistance \(R_{\text{total}} = R_1 + R_2 = 12\ \Omega + 18\ \Omega = 30\ \Omega\). (ii) \(I = \frac{V}{R_{\text{total}}} = \frac{9.0\text{ V}}{30\ \Omega} = 0.30\text{ A}\). The unit is Amperes (\(\text{A}\)). (c) The voltage across the thermistor is \(V_{\text{thermistor}} = I \times R_{\text{thermistor}} = 0.30\text{ A} \times 18\ \Omega = 5.4\text{ V}\). (d) When the temperature of the thermistor is increased, its resistance decreases. This reduces the total resistance of the circuit, causing the current flowing through the circuit to increase. Since the resistance of the fixed resistor remains constant and \(V = I \times R\), the increased current results in a larger voltage across the fixed resistor, so the voltmeter reading increases.
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(a) B1: \(V = IR\) (1). (b) (i) B1: \(30\ \Omega\) (1); (ii) M1: substitution of values: \(\frac{9.0}{30}\) (1); A1: 0.30 (1); B1: unit: \(\text{A}\) or Ampere (1). (c) M1: substitution: \(0.30 \times 18\) (1); A1: \(5.4\text{ V}\) (1). (d) B1: thermistor resistance decreases, so total current increases (1); B1: fixed resistor has a constant resistance (1); B1: voltage across fixed resistor increases (since \(V=IR\)) (1).
PastPaper.question 7 · Short Answer & Calculations
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A student heats a solid crystalline substance using a uniform heat source and measures how its temperature changes over time. (a) Describe how the arrangement and motion of molecules change when a substance melts from a solid to a liquid. (3 marks) (b) Explain why the temperature of a substance remains constant during melting, even though thermal energy continues to be supplied to it. (3 marks) (c) In a different experiment, an electric heater rated at \(120\text{ W}\) is placed into a well-insulated container containing \(0.50\text{ kg}\) of a liquid. The heater is switched on for \(4.0\text{ minutes}\), and the temperature of the liquid increases from \(18^\circ\text{C}\) to \(42^\circ\text{C}\). Calculate the specific heat capacity of the liquid. State the unit. (4 marks)
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PastPaper.workedSolution
(a) In a solid, molecules are closely packed in a regular, ordered pattern and vibrate about fixed positions. Upon melting to a liquid, the arrangement becomes random/irregular, and the molecules, while still close together, can now slide and move past each other. (b) During melting, the thermal energy supplied is used to break or overcome the intermolecular forces of attraction between the molecules, rather than increasing their average kinetic energy. Since temperature is a measure of the average kinetic energy of the molecules, the temperature remains constant during the state change. (c) 1. Energy supplied: \(E = \text{Power} \times \text{time} = 120\text{ W} \times (4.0 \times 60\text{ s}) = 120 \times 240 = 28,800\text{ J}\). 2. Temperature change: \(\Delta \theta = 42^\circ\text{C} - 18^\circ\text{C} = 24^\circ\text{C}\). 3. Use formula: \(Q = m \times c \times \Delta \theta \Rightarrow 28,800 = 0.50 \times c \times 24 \Rightarrow 28,800 = 12 \times c \Rightarrow c = 2400\text{ J/(kg }^\circ\text{C)}\).
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(a) B1: solid has a regular pattern/lattice and vibrates (1); B1: liquid has a random/irregular arrangement (1); B1: liquid molecules can slide/move past each other (1). (b) B1: thermal energy breaks bonds/overcomes forces of attraction between molecules (1); B1: average kinetic energy of molecules does not change (1); B1: temperature depends on kinetic energy, so stays constant (1). (c) M1: calculation of energy supplied: \(120 \times 240 = 28,800\text{ J}\) (1); M2: calculation of temperature change: \(24^\circ\text{C}\) (1); A1: substitution and calculation: \(c = 2400\) (1); B1: unit: \(\text{J/(kg }^\circ\text{C)}\) or \(\text{J/kg K}\) (1).
PastPaper.question 8 · Short Answer & Calculations
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A student investigates electromagnetism and the motor effect in a physics laboratory. (a) Describe an experiment to investigate the shape and direction of the magnetic field pattern produced around a straight, current-carrying wire. (4 marks) (b) A straight wire carrying a current is placed between two magnetic poles, perpendicular to the magnetic field. The wire experiences an upward magnetic force. (i) Describe the effect on the force of reversing the direction of the current. (1 mark) (ii) Describe the effect on the force of increasing the magnetic field strength. (1 mark) (c) State the name of the rule used to determine the direction of this force. Explain how this rule is applied to identify the direction of the force relative to the field and the current. (4 marks)
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PastPaper.workedSolution
(a) To investigate the field, place a thick wire vertically through a piece of card. Connect the wire to a low-voltage, high-current power supply. Either sprinkle iron filings on the card and tap it gently to reveal concentric circular field lines, or place several plotting compasses around the wire and mark the direction of their North pointers to show the direction of the field. (b) (i) Reversing the current direction will reverse the direction of the force (it will act downwards). (ii) Increasing the magnetic field strength will increase the magnitude of the force. (c) The rule is Fleming's Left-Hand Rule. To apply it, hold the thumb, first finger, and second finger of the left hand mutually perpendicular to each other. Point the First finger in the direction of the magnetic Field (from North to South) and the seCond finger in the direction of the Current (from positive to negative). The thuMb then points in the direction of the Force/Motion (which is upwards in this case).
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(a) B1: use iron filings (to show shape) or plotting compasses (to show direction) (1); B1: pass a current through the wire (1); B1: tap card (for filings) or mark compass needle directions (1); B1: identify concentric circles centered on the wire (1). (b) (i) B1: force acts in opposite direction/downwards (1); (ii) B1: force increases (1). (c) B1: Fleming's Left-Hand Rule (1); B1: thumb, first finger, second finger held mutually at right angles (1); B1: First finger = Field, seCond finger = Current (1); B1: thuMb = Motion/Force (1).
PastPaper.question 9 · Short Answer
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A model rocket is launched vertically upwards from rest on the ground. It accelerates upwards with a constant acceleration of \(5.0\text{ m/s}^2\) for \(4.0\text{ s}\). The fuel is then completely exhausted, and the rocket continues to move upwards under the influence of gravity alone (acceleration due to gravity, \(g = 10\text{ m/s}^2\) downwards) until it reaches its maximum height.
(a) Calculate the velocity of the rocket at the moment the fuel is exhausted. [2 marks] (b) Calculate the total time taken from launch for the rocket to reach its maximum height. [3 marks] (c) Describe the shape of a velocity-time graph representing the entire ascent of the rocket, stating the coordinates of the key vertices (time, velocity). [3 marks] (d) Calculate the maximum height reached by the rocket above the ground. [2 marks]
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PastPaper.workedSolution
(a) Use the equation of motion: \(v = u + at\) \(v = 0 + (5.0\text{ m/s}^2 \times 4.0\text{ s}) = 20\text{ m/s}\).
(b) For the second part of the motion (decelerating under gravity): Initial velocity, \(u = 20\text{ m/s}\) Final velocity, \(v = 0\text{ m/s}\) (at maximum height) Acceleration, \(a = -g = -10\text{ m/s}^2\) \(v = u + at\) \(0 = 20 + (-10)t_{\text{decel}}\) \(t_{\text{decel}} = 2.0\text{ s}\) Total time from launch = \(t_{\text{accel}} + t_{\text{decel}} = 4.0\text{ s} + 2.0\text{ s} = 6.0\text{ s}\).
(c) The velocity-time graph consists of two straight-line segments forming a triangle: - A straight line with a positive gradient starting at the origin \((0, 0)\) and ending at \((4.0\text{ s}, 20\text{ m/s})\). - A straight line with a negative gradient starting at \((4.0\text{ s}, 20\text{ m/s})\) and ending at the time-axis at \((6.0\text{ s}, 0\text{ m/s})\).
(d) The maximum height is represented by the total area under the velocity-time graph: \(\text{Area} = \frac{1}{2} \times \text{base} \times \text{height}\) \(\text{Height} = \frac{1}{2} \times 6.0\text{ s} \times 20\text{ m/s} = 60\text{ m}\). (Alternatively, calculating the distance for each stage: \(s_1 = \frac{1}{2} \times 5.0 \times 4.0^2 = 40\text{ m}\); \(s_2 = 20 \times 2.0 - \frac{1}{2} \times 10 \times 2.0^2 = 20\text{ m}\); \(\text{Total} = 40\text{ m} + 20\text{ m} = 60\text{ m}\)).
PastPaper.markingScheme
(a) [2 marks] - 1 mark for substituting correct values into \(v = u + at\) or correct working. - 1 mark for correct final velocity with unit (\(20\text{ m/s}\)).
(b) [3 marks] - 1 mark for setting up deceleration stage equation, e.g., \(0 = 20 - 10t\). - 1 mark for finding deceleration time of \(2.0\text{ s}\). - 1 mark for adding the two time intervals to find total time of \(6.0\text{ s}\).
(c) [3 marks] - 1 mark for describing a straight-line increase from \(0\) to \(20\text{ m/s}\) at \(4\text{ s}\). - 1 mark for describing a straight-line decrease from \(20\text{ m/s}\) to \(0\) at \(6\text{ s}\). - 1 mark for correctly identifying all key coordinates: \((0,0)\), \((4,20)\), and \((6,0)\).
(d) [2 marks] - 1 mark for using the area under the graph or calculating distances for both phases. - 1 mark for the correct final answer of \(60\text{ m}\).
PastPaper.question 10 · Short Answer
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A student carries out an experiment to investigate the refraction of light in a semi-circular glass block. A ray of monochromatic light is directed through the air and enters the flat face of the glass block.
The angle of incidence in air is measured as \(35^\circ\), and the angle of refraction inside the glass is measured as \(22^\circ\).
(a) Describe how the normal should be drawn relative to the flat face of the glass block at the point of incidence. [1 mark] (b) State the formula linking refractive index, angle of incidence, and angle of refraction. [1 mark] (c) Calculate the refractive index of this glass block. Give your answer to 3 significant figures. [3 marks] (d) Calculate the critical angle for the boundary between this glass block and air. Give your answer to the nearest whole degree. [3 marks] (e) Describe the behaviour of the light ray if it is inside the glass block and approaches the flat boundary with air at an angle of incidence of \(45^\circ\). [2 marks]
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PastPaper.workedSolution
(a) The normal must be drawn perpendicular (at \(90^\circ\)) to the flat boundary of the glass block where the light ray enters.
(b) Snell's Law: \(n = \frac{\sin(i)}{\sin(r)}\)
(c) Substitute the given angles into the formula: \(n = \frac{\sin(35^\circ)}{\sin(22^\circ)}\) \(n = \frac{0.5736}{0.3746} = 1.531...\) To 3 significant figures, \(n = 1.53\).
(d) Use the critical angle formula: \(\sin(c) = \frac{1}{n}\) \(\sin(c) = \frac{1}{1.531} \approx 0.6531\) (using unrounded value of \(n\)) \(c = \sin^{-1}(0.6531) = 40.78^\circ\) To the nearest whole degree, the critical angle is \(41^\circ\) (accept \(41^\circ\) or \(40.8^\circ\) if rounded from \(1.53\)).
(e) Since the angle of incidence inside the glass (\(45^\circ\)) is greater than the critical angle (\(41^\circ\)), total internal reflection (TIR) occurs. The ray does not exit into the air but reflects completely back inside the glass block at an angle of reflection of \(45^\circ\).
PastPaper.markingScheme
(a) [1 mark] - 1 mark for stating that the normal is perpendicular / at \(90^\circ\) to the interface.
(b) [1 mark] - 1 mark for \(n = \sin(i) / \sin(r)\).
(c) [3 marks] - 1 mark for correct substitution: \(\sin(35) / \sin(22)\). - 1 mark for calculating intermediate sines: \(0.574\) and \(0.375\). - 1 mark for correct final refractive index value to 3 s.f. (\(1.53\)).
(d) [3 marks] - 1 mark for using the correct formula \(\sin(c) = 1/n\). - 1 mark for calculation of \(\sin(c) \approx 0.653\). - 1 mark for correct final critical angle to nearest degree (\(41^\circ\) or \(41\)).
(e) [2 marks] - 1 mark for stating that total internal reflection (TIR) occurs. - 1 mark for explaining that this happens because the angle of incidence (\(45^\circ\)) is greater than the critical angle (\(41^\circ\)).
PastPaper.question 11 · Short Answer
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A rigid, sealed metal cylinder contains a fixed mass of neon gas. The initial pressure of the gas is \(1.2 \times 10^5\text{ Pa}\) and its temperature is \(20^\circ\text{C}\).
(a) Explain, in terms of the motion of gas particles, how the gas exerts a pressure on the walls of the cylinder. [3 marks] (b) State the value of \(20^\circ\text{C}\) in kelvin (K). [1 mark] (c) The cylinder is heated, and the pressure of the gas increases to \(1.8 \times 10^5\text{ Pa}\). Calculate the new temperature of the gas in degrees Celsius (\(^\circ\text{C}\)). [4 marks] (d) State two assumptions made about the particles in an ideal gas. [2 marks]
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PastPaper.workedSolution
(a) Gas particles are in constant, random motion. They collide with the internal walls of the container. During these collisions, the particles undergo a change in momentum, exerting a force on the walls. The sum of these forces over the surface area of the cylinder walls results in pressure (pressure = force / area).
(c) Since the volume and mass of the gas are constant (rigid sealed cylinder), we use the pressure law: \(\frac{P_1}{T_1} = \frac{P_2}{T_2}\) where \(T\) must be in kelvin. \(P_1 = 1.2 \times 10^5\text{ Pa}\) \(T_1 = 293\text{ K}\) \(P_2 = 1.8 \times 10^5\text{ Pa}\)
Convert back to Celsius: \(T_2\text{ (}^\circ\text{C)} = 439.5 - 273 = 166.5^\circ\text{C}\) (or \(167^\circ\text{C}\) to 3 significant figures).
(d) Any two assumptions from: 1. The particles have negligible volume compared to the container volume. 2. There are no attractive or repulsive intermolecular forces between the particles (except during collisions). 3. All collisions between particles and the walls are perfectly elastic. 4. The time duration of a collision is negligible compared to the time between collisions.
PastPaper.markingScheme
(a) [3 marks] - 1 mark for stating that particles are in constant random motion and collide with the walls. - 1 mark for mentioning that collisions cause a change in momentum / exert a force on the walls. - 1 mark for linking force to pressure (pressure = force/area).
(b) [1 mark] - 1 mark for correct conversion: \(293\text{ K}\).
(c) [4 marks] - 1 mark for stating or selecting the correct relationship: \(P_1/T_1 = P_2/T_2\) or \(P \propto T\). - 1 mark for substituting temperature in Kelvin (\(293\text{ K}\)) and correct pressures. - 1 mark for finding intermediate temperature \(T_2 = 439.5\text{ K}\). - 1 mark for converting back to Celsius to get \(166.5^\circ\text{C}\) or \(167^\circ\text{C}\) (accept \(166.5\) to \(167\)).
(d) [2 marks] - 1 mark each for any two valid assumptions of ideal gases (e.g., negligible volume of particles, no intermolecular forces, elastic collisions, random motion).
Paper 2P
Answer all questions. Show all steps in your calculations and state the units.
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PastPaper.question 1 · Short Answer
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A toy car accelerates from rest along a straight horizontal track. It reaches a velocity of \(12\text{ m/s}\) in a time of \(3.0\text{ s}\). It then travels at this constant velocity for another \(5.0\text{ s}\), before decelerating uniformly to rest in a further \(2.0\text{ s}\). (a) Calculate the acceleration of the car during the first \(3.0\text{ s}\). (b) Calculate the total distance traveled by the car during the entire \(10.0\text{ s}\) journey.
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Part (a): Use the formula a = (v - u) / t. Initial velocity u = 0, final velocity v = \(12\text{ m/s}\), and time t = \(3.0\text{ s}\). Therefore, a = 12 / 3.0 = \(4.0\text{ m/s}^2\). Part (b): Total distance is the area under the velocity-time graph. 1) Acceleration phase: distance = 0.5 * 3.0 * 12 = \(18\text{ m}\). 2) Constant velocity phase: distance = 5.0 * 12 = \(60\text{ m}\). 3) Deceleration phase: distance = 0.5 * 2.0 * 12 = \(12\text{ m}\). Total distance = 18 + 60 + 12 = \(84\text{ m}\).
PastPaper.markingScheme
Part (a) [3 marks]: 1 mark for correct acceleration formula or substitution, 1 mark for correct calculation (4.0), 1 mark for correct unit (\(m/s^2\)). Part (b) [5.75 marks]: 1 mark for showing distance is represented by the area under the graph, 1 mark for calculating first phase distance (18), 1 mark for calculating second phase distance (60), 1 mark for third phase distance (12), 1.75 marks for correct final sum (84) with correct unit (m).
PastPaper.question 2 · Short Answer
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Two ice skaters, A and B, are initially stationary on frictionless ice. Skater A has a mass of \(60\text{ kg}\) and Skater B has a mass of \(45\text{ kg}\). They push away from each other. Skater A moves away with a velocity of \(1.5\text{ m/s}\) to the left. (a) Calculate the velocity of Skater B. (b) Explain how the principle of conservation of momentum applies to this event.
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Part (a): Total initial momentum = 0. According to conservation of momentum, the total final momentum must also equal zero. Let right be the positive direction. Momentum of Skater A = mass * velocity = 60 * (-1.5) = \(-90\text{ kg m/s}\). Momentum of Skater B = mass * velocity = 45 * v. Therefore, -90 + 45 * v = 0, which gives v = \(2.0\text{ m/s}\) to the right. Part (b): Since no external forces act on the system of skaters, total momentum is conserved. The skaters start from rest (zero momentum), so their final momenta must be equal in magnitude but opposite in direction to sum to zero.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Part (a) [4.75 marks]: 1 mark for total initial momentum = 0, 1 mark for p = m * v, 1 mark for calculating Skater A's momentum as -90 kg m/s, 1 mark for setting up conservation equation (45 * v = 90), 0.75 marks for final velocity magnitude of 2.0 m/s and direction. Part (b) [4 marks]: 1 mark for stating no external forces act, 1 mark for defining conservation of momentum, 1 mark for noting initial momentum is zero, 1 mark for explaining final momenta are equal and opposite.
PastPaper.question 3 · Short Answer
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A student measures the background radiation count rate as \(30\text{ counts per minute (cpm)}\). With a radioactive source in place, the initial measured count rate is \(510\text{ cpm}\). After \(24\text{ minutes}\), the measured count rate is \(90\text{ cpm}\). (a) Calculate the corrected initial count rate and the corrected count rate after \(24\text{ minutes}\). (b) Determine the half-life of this radioactive isotope.
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Part (a): Subtract background radiation to find the corrected count rates. Corrected initial rate = 510 - 30 = \(480\text{ cpm}\). Corrected rate after 24 mins = 90 - 30 = \(60\text{ cpm}\). Part (b): Determine the number of half-lives that have elapsed to decrease from 480 to 60. 480 -> 240 (1 half-life) -> 120 (2 half-lives) -> 60 (3 half-lives). 3 half-lives have occurred in \(24\text{ minutes}\). Therefore, half-life = 24 / 3 = \(8.0\text{ minutes}\).
PastPaper.markingScheme
Part (a) [3 marks]: 1.5 marks for corrected initial count (480 cpm), 1.5 marks for corrected final count (60 cpm). Part (b) [5.75 marks]: 2 marks for showing step-by-step halving of 480 to reach 60, 1 mark for identifying that 3 half-lives have passed, 1.75 marks for calculation (24 / 3) and correct final answer (8.0 minutes) with unit.
PastPaper.question 4 · Short Answer
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Describe an experiment to determine the critical angle and calculate the refractive index of a semi-circular glass block. In your answer, include: (a) a description of the setup and how the light ray is directed, (b) the measurement taken to find the critical angle, and (c) the formula used to calculate the refractive index from this measurement.
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(a) Place the semi-circular glass block on a sheet of paper and trace its boundary. Direct a narrow ray of light from a ray box through the curved face so it hits the center of the flat face. (b) Adjust the angle of the incident ray at the flat face until the refracted ray travels exactly along the flat boundary. Measure the angle of incidence (the angle between the incident ray and the normal) using a protractor; this is the critical angle c. (c) Use the equation \(n = 1 / \sin(c)\) to find the refractive index.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Part (a) [3 marks]: 1 mark for tracing/positioning block, 1 mark for directing ray through curved boundary, 1 mark for aiming at the center of the flat edge. Part (b) [3 marks]: 1 mark for adjusting ray until refraction is along the boundary (90 degrees), 1 mark for measuring angle of incidence, 1 mark for using a protractor. Part (c) [2.75 marks]: 1.75 marks for correct formula n = 1 / sin(c), 1 mark for identifying c as critical angle.
PastPaper.question 5 · Short Answer
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An electric heater rated at \(50\text{ W}\) is placed inside a funnel containing \(0.20\text{ kg}\) of a crushed solid substance at its melting point. The heater is switched on for \(120\text{ s}\) and melts \(0.018\text{ kg}\) of the solid. Calculate: (a) the energy supplied by the heater in \(120\text{ s}\), and (b) the specific latent heat of fusion of the substance. State one assumption made.
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Part (a): Energy (E) = Power (P) * time (t). E = 50 * 120 = \(6000\text{ J}\). Part (b): Use the formula Q = m * L, where Q is heat energy, m is mass melted, and L is specific latent heat of fusion. Here, Q = \(6000\text{ J}\) and m = \(0.018\text{ kg}\). L = 6000 / 0.018 = \(3.3\times 10^5\text{ J/kg}\) (or \(333,333\text{ J/kg}\)). Assumption: All thermal energy from the heater was transferred directly to the solid to melt it, with no heat lost to the surroundings.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Part (a) [3 marks]: 1 mark for formula E = P * t, 1 mark for correct substitution, 1 mark for 6000 J. Part (b) [4 marks]: 1 mark for formula Q = m * L, 1 mark for correct rearrangement L = Q / m, 1 mark for correct calculation (approx 330,000 J/kg), 1 mark for unit J/kg. Part (c) [1.75 marks]: 1.75 marks for stating a valid assumption (e.g. no heat loss to surroundings).
PastPaper.question 6 · Short Answer
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A rigid, sealed container holds a fixed mass of gas. At a temperature of \(20\text{ }^{\circ}\text{C}\), the pressure of the gas is \(100\text{ kPa}\). The container is heated until the temperature of the gas reaches \(80\text{ }^{\circ}\text{C}\). (a) Calculate the new pressure of the gas in kPa. (b) Explain in terms of particles why the pressure increases when the temperature increases.
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Part (a): Convert temperatures to Kelvin: T1 = 20 + 273 = \(293\text{ K}\). T2 = 80 + 273 = \(353\text{ K}\). Use the pressure law: P1 / T1 = P2 / T2. 100 / 293 = P2 / 353. P2 = (100 * 353) / 293 = \(120.5\text{ kPa}\) (which rounds to \(120\text{ kPa}\)). Part (b): As temperature increases, the average kinetic energy of the gas molecules increases, so they move faster. They collide with the container walls more frequently and with greater force, resulting in a higher pressure.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Part (a) [4.75 marks]: 1 mark for converting both temperatures to Kelvin, 1 mark for the correct formula P1 / T1 = P2 / T2, 1 mark for correct substitution, 1.75 marks for correct final answer (120 or 120.5 kPa). Part (b) [4 marks]: 1 mark for linking temperature to higher kinetic energy/speed, 1 mark for stating more frequent collisions, 1 mark for stating harder/more forceful collisions with walls, 1 mark for linking force to pressure.
PastPaper.question 7 · Short Answer
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A simple d.c. motor consists of a rectangular coil of wire placed in a uniform magnetic field between two permanent magnets. (a) Explain why the coil rotates when a current flows through it. (b) State the purpose of the split-ring commutator in this motor.
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Part (a): When a current flows through the coil, a magnetic field is created around the wires. This field interacts with the magnetic field of the permanent magnets. This interaction produces forces on the sides of the coil perpendicular to the field (Fleming's Left-Hand Rule). Because current flows in opposite directions on each side, the forces on opposite sides are in opposite directions (one up, one down), creating a turning moment that rotates the coil. Part (b): The split-ring commutator reverses the direction of the current in the coil every half turn. This ensures that the forces on each side of the coil reverse direction when passing the vertical position, maintaining continuous rotation in the same direction.
PastPaper.markingScheme
Part (a) [4.75 marks]: 1 mark for current creating a magnetic field, 1 mark for interaction of fields creating a force, 1 mark for forces acting in opposite directions on each side, 1.75 marks for explaining that this creates a moment/turning effect. Part (b) [4 marks]: 1 mark for stating commutator reverses current, 1 mark for stating this happens every half turn (180 degrees), 2 marks for explaining this keeps the forces in the same rotational direction to ensure continuous rotation.
PastPaper.question 8 · Short Answer
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Describe the lifecycle of a star that has a mass much greater than that of the Sun. In your description, detail the stages after the stable main sequence phase up to its final state, and compare its final state with the final state of our Sun.
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After the main sequence phase, a massive star runs out of hydrogen in its core, causing the core to contract while the outer layers expand and cool to form a red supergiant. Helium and heavier elements undergo fusion in the core. When fusion stops, the core collapses rapidly, triggering a massive explosion called a supernova, which ejects outer layers. The remaining dense core is compressed. Depending on the star's initial mass, it collapses into either a neutron star or a black hole. In contrast, the Sun (a low-mass star) will not explode as a supernova; it will expand to a red giant and then end as a white dwarf.
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Stages [5.75 marks]: 1 mark for identifying expansion into a red supergiant, 1 mark for mentioning fusion of heavier elements, 1 mark for describing the supernova explosion, 1.75 marks for stating the final core remnant is a neutron star or black hole, 1 mark for explaining core collapse when fusion ceases. Comparison [3 marks]: 1.5 marks for stating the Sun's final state is a white dwarf, 1.5 marks for noting the Sun does not undergo a supernova/does not form a black hole due to its lower mass.