Edexcel IAL · Thinka-original Practice Paper

2024 Edexcel IAL Physics (YPH11) Practice Paper with Answers

Thinka Oct 2024 Cambridge International A Level-Style Mock — Physics (YPH11)

80 marks90 mins2024
An original Thinka practice paper modelled on the structure and difficulty of the Oct 2024 Cambridge International A Level Physics (YPH11) paper. Not affiliated with or reproduced from Cambridge.

Section A

Answer all questions by marking a cross in the appropriate box. Each correct answer is worth 1 mark.
10 Question · 10 marks
Question 1 · multiple-choice
1 marks
A ball is thrown horizontally from the top of a tower of height \(h\) with an initial velocity \(v\). It lands a horizontal distance \(d\) from the base of the tower. Air resistance is negligible. Which of the following is a correct expression for \(h\)?
  1. A.\(h = \frac{gd^2}{2v^2}\)
  2. B.\(h = \frac{gd}{2v}\)
  3. C.\(h = \frac{2vd^2}{g}\)
  4. D.\(h = \frac{v^2 d}{2g}\)
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Worked solution

The horizontal motion has constant velocity, so \(d = vt\) and therefore the time of flight is \(t = \frac{d}{v}\). The vertical motion is under constant acceleration \(g\) from rest, so \(h = \frac{1}{2}gt^2\). Substituting \(t\) into the vertical displacement equation gives \(h = \frac{1}{2}g \left(\frac{d}{v}\right)^2 = \frac{gd^2}{2v^2}\, which corresponds to option A.

Marking scheme

1 mark for the correct option A.
Question 2 · multiple-choice
1 marks
A toy car is released from rest and slides down a constant slope. The displacement \(s\) of the car from its starting position is plotted against the square of the time, \(t^2\). The resulting graph is a straight line passing through the origin with gradient \(k\). What is the acceleration of the car?
  1. A.\(\frac{k}{2}\)
  2. B.\(k\)
  3. C.\(2k\)
  4. D.\(k^2\)
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Worked solution

The equation of motion starting from rest is \(s = ut + \frac{1}{2}at^2\). Since the car is released from rest, \(u = 0\), which simplifies the equation to \(s = \left(\frac{1}{2}a\right)t^2\). This shows that a graph of \(s\) against \(t^2\) is linear with a gradient equal to \(\frac{1}{2}a\). Therefore, \(k = \frac{1}{2}a\), which means the acceleration is \(a = 2k\).

Marking scheme

1 mark for the correct option C.
Question 3 · multiple-choice
1 marks
A pellet of mass \(m\) is fired horizontally with speed \(u\) at a stationary block of mass \(M\) on a frictionless horizontal surface. The pellet becomes embedded in the block. What fraction of the initial kinetic energy of the system is lost during the collision?
  1. A.\(\frac{m}{m+M}\)
  2. B.\(\frac{M}{m+M}\)
  3. C.\(\frac{M}{m}\)
  4. D.\(\frac{m+M}{M}\)
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Worked solution

The initial kinetic energy is \(E_i = \frac{1}{2}mu^2\). By conservation of momentum, \(mu = (m+M)v\), where \(v\) is the common velocity of the embedded pellet and block. Thus, \(v = \frac{m}{m+M}u\). The final kinetic energy is \(E_f = \frac{1}{2}(m+M)v^2 = \frac{1}{2}\frac{m^2 u^2}{m+M}\). The fraction of kinetic energy lost is \(\frac{E_i - E_f}{E_i} = 1 - \frac{E_f}{E_i} = 1 - \frac{m}{m+M} = \frac{M}{m+M}\, which corresponds to option B.

Marking scheme

1 mark for the correct option B.
Question 4 · multiple-choice
1 marks
A small steel sphere of radius \(r\) is falling at terminal velocity \(v\) through a container of viscous oil. A second steel sphere of radius \(2r\) is allowed to fall through the same oil. Assuming Stokes' law applies to both spheres, what is the terminal velocity of the second sphere?
  1. A.\(\sqrt{2}v\)
  2. B.\(2v\)
  3. C.\(4v\)
  4. D.\(8v\)
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Worked solution

At terminal velocity, the net force is zero, meaning weight is balanced by upthrust and viscous drag: \(W = U + F_{\text{drag}}\). This leads to \(\frac{4}{3}\pi r^3\rho_s g = \frac{4}{3}\pi r^3\rho_f g + 6\pi\eta r v\). Rearranging for velocity gives \(v = \frac{2r^2 g(\rho_s - \rho_f)}{9\eta}\). Since \(g\), densities, and viscosity are constant, terminal velocity is directly proportional to the square of the radius (\(v \propto r^2\)). Doubling the radius increases the terminal velocity by a factor of \(2^2 = 4\), giving \(4v\).

Marking scheme

1 mark for the correct option C.
Question 5 · multiple-choice
1 marks
Two wires, X and Y, are made of the same material and are suspended vertically from a rigid support. Wire X has twice the length and half the diameter of wire Y. Identical loads are suspended from the lower end of each wire. What is the ratio \(\frac{\text{extension of wire X}}{\text{extension of wire Y}}\)?
  1. A.\(2\)
  2. B.\(4\)
  3. C.\(8\)
  4. D.\(16\)
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Worked solution

The extension is given by \(\Delta L = \frac{FL}{AE}\), where \(A = \frac{\pi d^2}{4}\). Thus, \(\Delta L = \frac{4FL}{\pi d^2 E}\). Since both wires have the same material (same Young modulus \(E\)) and identical loads (same force \(F\)), the extension is proportional to \(\frac{L}{d^2}\). Given \(L_X = 2L_Y\) and \(d_X = 0.5d_Y\), the ratio of extensions is \(\frac{\Delta L_X}{\Delta L_Y} = \frac{L_X}{L_Y} \times \left(\frac{d_Y}{d_X}\right)^2 = 2 \times \left(\frac{1}{0.5}\right)^2 = 2 \times 4 = 8\).

Marking scheme

1 mark for the correct option C.
Question 6 · multiple-choice
1 marks
An electric motor is used to lift a load of mass \(m\) vertically through a height \(h\) at a constant speed in a time \(t\). The electrical power input to the motor is \(P\). Which of the following is a correct expression for the efficiency of the motor system?
  1. A.\(\frac{Pt}{mgh}\)
  2. B.\(\frac{mgh}{Pt}\)
  3. C.\(\frac{mg}{Pht}\)
  4. D.\(\frac{mghP}{t}\)
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Worked solution

The useful work done in lifting the mass is equal to the gain in gravitational potential energy, \(E_p = mgh\). The useful power output of the motor is the work done divided by the time, \(P_{\text{out}} = \frac{mgh}{t}\). The efficiency is the ratio of useful power output to power input: \(\text{Efficiency} = \frac{P_{\text{out}}}{P_{\text{in}}} = \frac{mgh}{Pt}\).

Marking scheme

1 mark for the correct option B.
Question 7 · multiple-choice
1 marks
A rubber band is stretched and then allowed to contract. The force-extension graph shows a hysteresis loop where the loading curve lies above the unloading curve. Which of the following is represented by the area enclosed within the hysteresis loop?
  1. A.The total elastic potential energy stored in the rubber band at its maximum extension.
  2. B.The work done by the rubber band on the external load during contraction.
  3. C.The thermal energy dissipated to the surroundings during the stretching and contracting cycle.
  4. D.The maximum force exerted by the rubber band.
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Worked solution

The area under the loading curve represents the work done on the rubber band when stretching it. The area under the unloading curve represents the work done by the rubber band when contracting. The difference between these two areas (the area enclosed by the loop) is the energy that is not recovered mechanically, which is dissipated as thermal energy during the cycle.

Marking scheme

1 mark for the correct option C.
Question 8 · multiple-choice
1 marks
A helicopter of mass \(M\) is accelerating vertically upwards with an acceleration \(a\). The upward lift force produced by the rotors is \(L\) and the air resistance acting on the helicopter is \(R\). Which of the following equations correctly relates these quantities?
  1. A.\(L - Mg - R = Ma\)
  2. B.\(L - Mg + R = Ma\)
  3. C.\(Mg - L - R = Ma\)
  4. D.\(L + Mg - R = Ma\)
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Worked solution

The forces acting vertically on the helicopter are the upward lift force \(L\), the downward weight \(Mg\), and the downward air resistance \(R\) (since the motion is upwards). The resultant force acting upwards is \(F = L - Mg - R\). Applying Newton's second law, \(F = Ma\), gives \(L - Mg - R = Ma\).

Marking scheme

1 mark for the correct option A.
Question 9 · multiple_choice
1 marks
A box of mass \(m\) is pulled along a rough horizontal floor by a force \(F\) acting at an angle \(\theta\) above the horizontal. The coefficient of kinetic friction between the box and the floor is \(\mu\). The box moves at a constant velocity. Which of the following is a correct expression for the magnitude of \(F\)?
  1. A.\(F = \frac{\mu mg}{\cos\theta - \mu \sin\theta}\)
  2. B.\(F = \frac{\mu mg}{\cos\theta + \mu \sin\theta}\)
  3. C.\(F = \frac{\mu mg}{\sin\theta + \mu \cos\theta}\)
  4. D.\(F = \frac{mg}{\cos\theta + \mu \sin\theta}\)
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Worked solution

To find the force \(F\), resolve the forces acting on the box in both the vertical and horizontal directions.

1. Vertical forces: The normal contact force \(N\) acts upwards, the vertical component of the pulling force \(F \sin\theta\) acts upwards, and the weight \(mg\) acts downwards.
Since there is no vertical acceleration:
\(N + F \sin\theta = mg\)
\(N = mg - F \sin\theta\)

2. Horizontal forces: The horizontal component of the pulling force \(F \cos\theta\) acts in the direction of motion, and the frictional force \(f = \mu N\) opposes motion.
Since the box moves at a constant velocity, the horizontal forces are in equilibrium:
\(F \cos\theta = f\)
\(F \cos\theta = \mu(mg - F \sin\theta)\)

3. Rearrange to solve for \(F\):
\(F \cos\theta = \mu mg - \mu F \sin\theta\)
\(F \cos\theta + \mu F \sin\theta = \mu mg\)
\(F(\cos\theta + \mu \sin\theta) = \mu mg\)
\(F = \frac{\mu mg}{\cos\theta + \mu \sin\theta}\)

Marking scheme

1 mark: Correct option B selected.
Question 10 · multiple_choice
1 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 \(2d\). The wires are connected in series and a tensile force \(F\) is applied to the combination. What is the value of the ratio \(\frac{\Delta x_X}{\Delta x_Y}\), where \(\Delta x_X\) is the extension of wire X and \(\Delta x_Y\) is the extension of wire Y?
  1. A.0.5
  2. B.1
  3. C.2
  4. D.4
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Worked solution

The extension \(\Delta x\) of a wire of length \(L\), cross-sectional area \(A\), and Young modulus \(E\) under a tension \(F\) is given by:
\(\Delta x = \frac{FL}{AE}\)

Since the wires are connected in series, the tension \(F\) is the same in both wires. Since they are made of the same material, the Young modulus \(E\) is also the same.

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

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

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

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

Taking the ratio of their extensions:
\(\frac{\Delta x_X}{\Delta x_Y} = \frac{L/d^2}{L/(2d^2)} = 2\)

Marking scheme

1 mark: Correct option C selected.

Section B

Answer all questions in the spaces provided. Show all working clearly and include units where appropriate.
9 Question · 69.60000000000001 marks
Question 1 · Short Answer & Structured Calculations
7.7 marks
A toy launcher uses a spring to launch a small ball of mass 0.045 kg at an angle of 35° to the horizontal from a height of 1.2 m above the ground. The spring is compressed by 0.050 m and has a spring constant of 240 N m\(^{-1}\).

(a) Explain why the launch angle does not affect the speed at which the ball hits the ground, assuming air resistance is negligible.
(b) Calculate the speed of the ball just before it hits the ground.
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Worked solution

(a) Mechanical energy is a scalar quantity. Since air resistance is negligible, the total mechanical energy of the system is conserved. The work done by gravity depends only on the change in vertical height, and the initial elastic energy depends only on the compression of the spring. Therefore, the final kinetic energy (and thus the speed) depends only on the initial total mechanical energy and is independent of the direction of launch.

(b) Initial elastic potential energy:
\(E_e = \frac{1}{2} k x^2 = 0.5 \times 240 \text{ N m}^{-1} \times (0.050 \text{ m})^2 = 0.30 \text{ J}\)

Initial gravitational potential energy:
\(E_p = m g h = 0.045 \text{ kg} \times 9.81 \text{ m s}^{-2} \times 1.2 \text{ m} = 0.530 \text{ J}\)

Total initial energy:
\(E_{\text{total}} = 0.30 \text{ J} + 0.530 \text{ J} = 0.830 \text{ J}\)

Since mechanical energy is conserved:
\(E_k = \frac{1}{2} m v^2 = 0.830 \text{ J}\)

\(v = \sqrt{\frac{2 \times 0.830 \text{ J}}{0.045 \text{ kg}}} = 6.07 \text{ m s}^{-1} \approx 6.1 \text{ m s}^{-1}\)

Marking scheme

(a) [2 marks]
- Statement that energy is a scalar quantity / conservation of energy depends only on initial and final heights, not the path taken [1]
- Statement that work done against air resistance is zero, so mechanical energy is conserved [1]

(b) [5.7 marks]
- Use of \(E_e = \frac{1}{2} k x^2\) to find initial elastic potential energy = 0.30 J [1.7]
- Use of \(E_p = m g h\) to find gravitational potential energy = 0.530 J [1]
- Addition of energies to find total initial energy = 0.830 J [1]
- Equating total initial energy to final kinetic energy \(E_k = \frac{1}{2} m v^2\) [1]
- Correct calculation of final speed with correct units: \(6.1 \text{ m s}^{-1}\) (Accept \(6.07 \text{ m s}^{-1}\)) [1]
Question 2 · Short Answer & Structured Calculations
7.7 marks
A steel wire of length 2.4 m and cross-sectional area \(4.5 \times 10^{-7} \text{ m}^2\) is suspended vertically from a rigid support. A load of 75 N is hung from the lower end.
(Young modulus of steel = \(2.0 \times 10^{11} \text{ Pa}\))

(a) Calculate the extension of the wire.
(b) Calculate the elastic strain energy stored in the wire under this load.
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Worked solution

(a) Using the Young modulus definition:
\(E = \frac{\text{stress}}{\text{strain}} = \frac{F L}{A \Delta x}\)

Rearranging to solve for extension \(\Delta x\):
\(\Delta x = \frac{F L}{A E} = \frac{75 \text{ N} \times 2.4 \text{ m}}{4.5 \times 10^{-7} \text{ m}^2 \times 2.0 \times 10^{11} \text{ Pa}} = \frac{180}{90000} = 2.0 \times 10^{-3} \text{ m}\) (or \(2.0 \text{ mm}\))

(b) The elastic strain energy stored is given by:
\(E_{\text{el}} = \frac{1}{2} F \Delta x = 0.5 \times 75 \text{ N} \times 2.0 \times 10^{-3} \text{ m} = 0.075 \text{ J}\)

Marking scheme

(a) [3.7 marks]
- Use of the Young modulus formula rearranged for extension: \(\Delta x = \frac{F L}{A E}\) [1.7]
- Correct substitution of values [1]
- Correct calculation of extension with units: \(2.0 \times 10^{-3} \text{ m}\) or \(2.0 \text{ mm}\) [1]

(b) [4.0 marks]
- Use of \(E_{\text{el}} = \frac{1}{2} F \Delta x\) [2]
- Substitution of their extension value [1]
- Correct calculation of elastic strain energy with units: \(0.075 \text{ J}\) [1]
Question 3 · Short Answer & Structured Calculations
7.7 marks
A glider of mass 0.35 kg travels along a frictionless horizontal air track at a speed of \(1.8 \text{ m s}^{-1}\). It collides with and sticks to a second stationary glider of mass 0.15 kg.

(a) Calculate the common speed of the gliders after the collision.
(b) Calculate the loss in total kinetic energy of the system as a result of the collision.
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Worked solution

(a) According to the conservation of linear momentum:
\(m_1 v_1 + m_2 v_2 = (m_1 + m_2) v_f\)

Since glider 2 is initially stationary (\(v_2 = 0\)):
\(0.35 \text{ kg} \times 1.8 \text{ m s}^{-1} + 0 = (0.35 \text{ kg} + 0.15 \text{ kg}) v_f\)
\(0.63 \text{ kg m s}^{-1} = 0.50 \text{ kg} \times v_f\)
\(v_f = \frac{0.63}{0.50} = 1.26 \text{ m s}^{-1}\)

(b) Initial kinetic energy of the system:
\(E_{ki} = \frac{1}{2} m_1 v_1^2 = 0.5 \times 0.35 \text{ kg} \times (1.8 \text{ m s}^{-1})^2 = 0.567 \text{ J}\)

Final kinetic energy of the system:
\(E_{kf} = \frac{1}{2} (m_1 + m_2) v_f^2 = 0.5 \times 0.50 \text{ kg} \times (1.26 \text{ m s}^{-1})^2 = 0.3969 \text{ J}\)

Loss in kinetic energy:
\(\Delta E_k = E_{ki} - E_{kf} = 0.567 \text{ J} - 0.397 \text{ J} = 0.170 \text{ J}\) (or \(0.17 \text{ J}\))

Marking scheme

(a) [3.0 marks]
- Statement of conservation of momentum or use of \(m_1 v_1 = (m_1 + m_2) v_f\) [1]
- Calculation of total initial momentum as \(0.63 \text{ kg m s}^{-1}\) [1]
- Correct calculation of final speed with units: \(1.26 \text{ m s}^{-1}\) (Accept \(1.3 \text{ m s}^{-1}\)) [1]

(b) [4.7 marks]
- Use of \(E_k = \frac{1}{2} m v^2\) to find initial kinetic energy = 0.567 J [1.7]
- Calculation of final kinetic energy = 0.397 J [1]
- Subtraction of energies to find the loss [1]
- Correct calculation of energy loss with units: \(0.17 \text{ J}\) (Accept \(0.170 \text{ J}\)) [1]
Question 4 · Short Answer & Structured Calculations
7.7 marks
A small spherical copper bead of radius \(1.2 \times 10^{-3} \text{ m}\) falls at a constant terminal velocity through a cylinder of viscous liquid (castor oil).
(Density of copper = \(8900 \text{ kg m}^{-3}\), density of castor oil = \(960 \text{ kg m}^{-3}\), viscosity of castor oil = \(0.95 \text{ Pa s}\))

(a) Show that the upthrust acting on the bead is approximately \(6.8 \times 10^{-5} \text{ N}\).
(b) Calculate the terminal velocity of the bead.
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

(a) The volume of the sphere is:
\(V = \frac{4}{3} \pi r^3 = \frac{4}{3} \pi (1.2 \times 10^{-3} \text{ m})^3 = 7.238 \times 10^{-9} \text{ m}^3\)

According to Archimedes' principle, the upthrust is equal to the weight of the fluid displaced:
\(U = \rho_{\text{fluid}} V g = 960 \text{ kg m}^{-3} \times 7.238 \times 10^{-9} \text{ m}^3 \times 9.81 \text{ m s}^{-2} = 6.817 \times 10^{-5} \text{ N} \approx 6.8 \times 10^{-5} \text{ N}\)

(b) The weight of the copper bead is:
\(W = \rho_{\text{copper}} V g = 8900 \text{ kg m}^{-3} \times 7.238 \times 10^{-9} \text{ m}^3 \times 9.81 \text{ m s}^{-2} = 6.319 \times 10^{-4} \text{ N}\)

At terminal velocity, the upward forces equal the downward forces:
\(W = U + F_{\text{drag}}\)
\(F_{\text{drag}} = W - U = 6.319 \times 10^{-4} \text{ N} - 6.817 \times 10^{-5} \text{ N} = 5.637 \times 10^{-4} \text{ N}\)

Using Stokes' Law:
\(F_{\text{drag}} = 6 \pi \eta r v\)

Rearranging to solve for terminal velocity \(v\):
\(v = \frac{F_{\text{drag}}}{6 \pi \eta r} = \frac{5.637 \times 10^{-4} \text{ N}}{6 \pi \times 0.95 \text{ Pa s} \times 1.2 \times 10^{-3} \text{ m}} = 0.0262 \text{ m s}^{-1}\)

Marking scheme

(a) [2.7 marks]
- Use of \(V = \frac{4}{3} \pi r^3\) to find volume = \(7.2 \times 10^{-9} \text{ m}^3\) [1]
- Use of \(U = \rho_{\text{fluid}} V g\) [1]
- Clear substitution and calculation resulting in \(6.8 \times 10^{-5} \text{ N}\) [0.7]

(b) [5.0 marks]
- Use of \(W = \rho V g\) to calculate the bead weight = \(6.3 \times 10^{-4} \text{ N}\) [1]
- Use of equilibrium equation \(W = U + F_{\text{drag}}\) to find drag force = \(5.6 \times 10^{-4} \text{ N}\) [1]
- Identification of Stokes' Law \(F = 6 \pi \eta r v\) [1]
- Rearranging for terminal velocity \(v\) [1]
- Correct calculation of terminal velocity with units: \(0.026 \text{ m s}^{-1}\) (Accept \(2.6 \text{ cm s}^{-1}\)) [1]
Question 5 · Short Answer & Structured Calculations
7.7 marks
A uniform horizontal shelf of length 1.2 m and mass 4.5 kg is supported by a hinge at one end (A) and a light cable attached to the opposite end (B) at an angle of 35° to the horizontal.

(a) Draw a labeled diagram showing all three forces acting on the shelf.
(b) Calculate the tension in the cable.
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

(a) The three forces acting on the shelf are:
1. The weight of the shelf \(W = m g\) acting vertically downwards from the geometric center (midpoint, 0.60 m from A).
2. The tension \(T\) in the cable acting at end B, pulling at an angle of 35° above the horizontal.
3. The reaction force \(R\) from the hinge at end A, which has both horizontal and vertical components to keep the shelf in equilibrium.

(b) Take moments about the hinge (A) to eliminate the force \(R\):
Clockwise moment about A:
\(\tau_{\text{clockwise}} = W \times 0.60 \text{ m} = (4.5 \text{ kg} \times 9.81 \text{ m s}^{-2}) \times 0.60 \text{ m} = 26.49 \text{ N m}\)

Anticlockwise moment about A:
\(\tau_{\text{anticlockwise}} = (T \sin 35^\circ) \times 1.2 \text{ m} = 0.6883 T \text{ m}\)

For rotational equilibrium:
\(\tau_{\text{clockwise}} = \tau_{\text{anticlockwise}}\)
\(26.49 \text{ N m} = 0.6883 T \text{ m}\)

\(T = \frac{26.49}{0.6883} = 38.5 \text{ N} \approx 39 \text{ N}\)

Marking scheme

(a) [3.0 marks]
- Weight shown acting vertically downwards at the midpoint [1]
- Tension shown acting at the end B pointing up and left at 35° [1]
- Hinge force shown at end A with components directed upwards and rightwards [1]

(b) [4.7 marks]
- Use of moment formula \(\text{moment} = F d\) [1]
- Taking moments about A with weight acting at 0.60 m [1]
- Calculating the moment of the tension force using perpendicular component \(T \sin 35^\circ \times 1.2\) [1]
- Equating clockwise and anticlockwise moments [0.7]
- Correct calculation of tension with units: \(39 \text{ N}\) (Accept \(38.5 \text{ N}\)) [1]
Question 6 · Short Answer & Structured Calculations
7.7 marks
A solid cylindrical wooden block of cross-sectional area \(0.012 \text{ m}^2\) and height \(0.25 \text{ m}\) floats upright in water.
(Density of wood = \(680 \text{ kg m}^{-3}\), density of water = \(1000 \text{ kg m}^{-3}\))

(a) Calculate the mass of the block.
(b) Calculate the depth of the block that is submerged below the water surface.
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

(a) First, find the total volume of the wooden block:
\(V = A \times h = 0.012 \text{ m}^2 \times 0.25 \text{ m} = 0.0030 \text{ m}^3\)

Calculate the mass using density:
\(m = \rho_{\text{wood}} \times V = 680 \text{ kg m}^{-3} \times 0.0030 \text{ m}^3 = 2.04 \text{ kg}\)

(b) Since the block is floating, the upthrust \(U\) is equal to its weight \(W\):
\(U = W = m g = 2.04 \text{ kg} \times 9.81 \text{ m s}^{-2} = 20.01 \text{ N}\)

According to Archimedes' principle:
\(U = \rho_{\text{water}} \times V_{\text{submerged}} \times g\)

Equating the expressions for upthrust:
\(\rho_{\text{water}} \times V_{\text{submerged}} \times g = m g\)
\(V_{\text{submerged}} = \frac{m}{\rho_{\text{water}}} = \frac{2.04 \text{ kg}}{1000 \text{ kg m}^{-3}} = 2.04 \times 10^{-3} \text{ m}^3\)

The submerged depth \(d\) is given by:
\(d = \frac{V_{\text{submerged}}}{A} = \frac{2.04 \times 10^{-3} \text{ m}^3}{0.012 \text{ m}^2} = 0.17 \text{ m}\)

Marking scheme

(a) [2.7 marks]
- Use of \(V = A h\) to find block volume = \(0.0030 \text{ m}^3\) [1]
- Use of \(m = \rho V\) [1]
- Correct calculation of mass: \(2.04 \text{ kg}\) [0.7]

(b) [5.0 marks]
- Statement that upthrust equals weight of the floating object [1]
- Use of Archimedes' Principle formula: \(U = \rho_{\text{water}} V_{\text{submerged}} g\) [1]
- Equating upthrust to weight of the block to find submerged volume = \(2.04 \times 10^{-3} \text{ m}^3\) [1]
- Use of \(d = \frac{V_{\text{submerged}}}{A}\) [1]
- Correct calculation of submerged depth with units: \(0.17 \text{ m}\) [1]
Question 7 · Short Answer & Structured Calculations
7.7 marks
An electric motor is used to lift a crate of mass 85 kg vertically upwards at a constant speed of \(1.5 \text{ m s}^{-1}\). The motor operates with an efficiency of 72%.

(a) Calculate the useful power output of the motor.
(b) Calculate the electrical power input to the motor and the electrical energy supplied to the motor in 15 seconds.
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

(a) Since the crate is being lifted at a constant speed, the force exerted by the motor is equal to the weight of the crate:
\(F = m g = 85 \text{ kg} \times 9.81 \text{ m s}^{-2} = 833.85 \text{ N}\)

Useful power output:
\(P_{\text{out}} = F v = 833.85 \text{ N} \times 1.5 \text{ m s}^{-1} = 1250.8 \text{ W} \approx 1250 \text{ W}\)

(b) The electrical power input is related to useful power output by the efficiency:
\(\text{Efficiency} = \frac{P_{\text{out}}}{P_{\text{in}}} \times 100\%\)
\(0.72 = \frac{1250.8 \text{ W}}{P_{\text{in}}}\)
\(P_{\text{in}} = \frac{1250.8}{0.72} = 1737.2 \text{ W} \approx 1740 \text{ W}\)

Electrical energy supplied to the motor in 15 seconds:
\(E = P_{\text{in}} \times t = 1737.2 \text{ W} \times 15 \text{ s} = 26058 \text{ J} \approx 2.6 \times 10^4 \text{ J}\) (or \(26 \text{ kJ}\))

Marking scheme

(a) [3.0 marks]
- Calculation of weight as force \(F = 834 \text{ N}\) [1]
- Use of \(P = F v\) [1]
- Correct calculation of useful power output with units: \(1250 \text{ W}\) [1]

(b) [4.7 marks]
- Use of \(\text{efficiency} = \frac{P_{\text{out}}}{P_{\text{in}}}\) [1.7]
- Correct calculation of input power: \(1740 \text{ W}\) (Accept \(1737 \text{ W}\)) [1]
- Use of \(E = P_{\text{in}} \times t\) [1]
- Correct calculation of electrical energy with units: \(2.6 \times 10^4 \text{ J}\) or \(26 \text{ kJ}\) [1]
Question 8 · Short Answer & Structured Calculations
7.7 marks
A student performs an experiment to determine the Young modulus of a copper wire. The stress-strain graph is linear up to a limit of proportionality at a stress of \(1.2 \times 10^8 \text{ Pa}\) with a corresponding strain of \(9.6 \times 10^{-4}\).

(a) Define the terms 'limit of proportionality' and 'ultimate tensile strength'.
(b) Calculate the Young modulus of the copper from the graph, and calculate the cross-sectional area of a wire of this material that would experience a tensile force of 150 N at the limit of proportionality.
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Worked solution

(a)
- Limit of proportionality: The point beyond which stress is no longer directly proportional to strain (Hooke's Law is no longer obeyed).
- Ultimate tensile strength: The maximum stress that a material can withstand before breaking under tension.

(b) The Young modulus is the gradient of the linear region of the stress-strain graph:
\(E = \frac{\text{stress}}{\text{strain}} = \frac{1.2 \times 10^8 \text{ Pa}}{9.6 \times 10^{-4}} = 1.25 \times 10^{11} \text{ Pa}\)

At the limit of proportionality:
\(\text{stress} = 1.2 \times 10^8 \text{ Pa}\)
\(F = 150 \text{ N}\)

Using stress definition:
\(\text{stress} = \frac{F}{A}\)
\(A = \frac{F}{\text{stress}} = \frac{150 \text{ N}}{1.2 \times 10^8 \text{ Pa}} = 1.25 \times 10^{-6} \text{ m}^2\)

Marking scheme

(a) [3.0 marks]
- Limit of proportionality defined as the point beyond which stress and strain are no longer directly proportional [1.5]
- Ultimate tensile strength defined as the maximum tensile stress a material can withstand [1.5]

(b) [4.7 marks]
- Use of gradient of stress-strain graph to find Young modulus \(E = \frac{\text{stress}}{\text{strain}}\) [1.7]
- Correct calculation of Young modulus: \(1.25 \times 10^{11} \text{ Pa}\) [1]
- Use of \(\text{stress} = \frac{F}{A}\) [1]
- Correct calculation of cross-sectional area: \(1.25 \times 10^{-6} \text{ m}^2\) [1]
Question 9 · structured_calculation
8 marks
A nylon guitar string of length \(1.20\text{ m}\) and cross-sectional diameter \(0.85\text{ mm}\) is subject to a tension of \(85\text{ N}\). The Young modulus of nylon is \(2.4 \times 10^{9}\text{ Pa}\).

(a) State what is meant by:
(i) tensile stress,
(ii) tensile strain.

(b) Calculate the extension of the nylon string when this tension is applied, assuming the deformation is completely elastic.

(c) Calculate the strain energy stored in the extended string.

(d) Explain how the strain energy stored would change if the diameter of the string were halved while maintaining the same length and tension.
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

**(a)(i)** Tensile stress is the tensile force applied per unit cross-sectional area: \(\sigma = \frac{F}{A}\).

**(a)(ii)** Tensile strain is the extension per unit original length: \(\varepsilon = \frac{\Delta L}{L}\).

**(b)** First, calculate the cross-sectional area \(A\) of the string:
\[A = \frac{\pi d^2}{4} = \frac{\pi (0.85 \times 10^{-3}\text{ m})^2}{4} = 5.67 \times 10^{-7}\text{ m}^2\]

Using the Young modulus formula:
\[E = \frac{\text{Stress}}{\text{Strain}} = \frac{F L}{A \Delta L}\]

Rearranging for extension \(\Delta L\):
\[\Delta L = \frac{F L}{A E} = \frac{85\text{ N} \times 1.20\text{ m}}{5.67 \times 10^{-7}\text{ m}^2 \times 2.4 \times 10^9\text{ Pa}} \approx 0.075\text{ m}\text{ (or } 7.5 \times 10^{-2}\text{ m)}\]

**(c)** The strain energy \(E_{\text{str}}\) stored in the elastic region is given by:
\[E_{\text{str}} = \frac{1}{2} F \Delta L\]

\[E_{\text{str}} = 0.5 \times 85\text{ N} \times 0.0749\text{ m} \approx 3.2\text{ J}\text{ (or } 3.18\text{ J)}\]

**(d)** If the diameter is halved, the cross-sectional area \(A\) decreases to \(\frac{1}{4}\) of its original value (since \(A \propto d^2\)).
Since extension \(\Delta L = \frac{FL}{AE}\), the extension \(\Delta L\) will increase by a factor of 4.
Since strain energy is \(E_{\text{str}} = \frac{1}{2} F \Delta L\) and the tension \(F\) is kept constant, the strain energy stored will increase by a factor of 4 (quadruple).

Marking scheme

**(a)(i)**
- Force divided by cross-sectional area (1)

**(a)(ii)**
- Extension divided by original length (1)

**(b)**
- Use of \(A = \frac{\pi d^2}{4}\) to obtain \(5.67 \times 10^{-7}\text{ m}^2\) (1)
- Use of \(E = \frac{F L}{A \Delta L}\) or equivalent rearranged (1)
- Correct calculation of \(\Delta L = 0.075\text{ m}\) or \(7.5 \times 10^{-2}\text{ m}\) (1)

**(c)**
- Use of \(E_{\text{str}} = \frac{1}{2} F \Delta L\) (1)
- Correct calculation of energy = \(3.2\text{ J}\) (accept \(3.18\text{ J}\) to \(3.2\text{ J}\) depending on rounding) (1)

**(d)**
- States that halving the diameter reduces the area by 4, which increases the extension by 4, thus quadrupling (increasing by a factor of 4) the strain energy (1)

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