An electric heater of constant power is used to heat a substance of mass l. The substance is initially a solid at its melting point. It takes time \(t_1\) to melt completely into liquid, and then a further time \(t_2\) to raise the temperature of the liquid by \(\Delta T\). Find the ratio of the specific latent heat of fusion of the substance \(l_f\) to the specific heat capacity of its liquid state \(c_l\) (i.e., \(l_f / c_l\)).
- A.\(\frac{t_1}{t_2 \Delta T}\)
- B.\(\frac{t_1 \Delta T}{t_2}\)
- C.\(\frac{t_2}{t_1 \Delta T}\)
- D.\(\frac{t_2 \Delta T}{t_1}\)
Worked solution
During the melting process, the heat absorbed is \(Q_1 = P t_1 = m l_f\), which gives \(l_f = \frac{P t_1}{m}\).
During the temperature rise in the liquid state, the heat absorbed is \(Q_2 = P t_2 = m c_l \Delta T\), which gives \(c_l = \frac{P t_2}{m \Delta T}\).
Therefore, the ratio is:
\[\frac{l_f}{c_l} = \frac{P t_1 / m}{P t_2 / (m \Delta T)} = \frac{t_1 \Delta T}{t_2}\]
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct answer B. Correct formula application is required.
A fixed mass of an ideal gas is kept in a rigid container of fixed volume. The temperature of the gas is increased from \(27^\circ\text{C}\) to \(327^\circ\text{C}\). Which of the following statements is/are correct?
(1) The average kinetic energy of the gas molecules is doubled.
(2) The root-mean-square speed of the gas molecules is doubled.
(3) The frequency of collisions between the gas molecules and the container walls is doubled.
- A.(1) only
- B.(2) only
- C.(1) and (3) only
- D.(2) and (3) only
Worked solution
First, convert temperatures to Kelvin:
\(T_1 = 27 + 273 = 300\text{ K}\)
\(T_2 = 327 + 273 = 600\text{ K}\)
Since the absolute temperature is doubled:
(1) Average kinetic energy \(E_k = \frac{3}{2} k_B T\) is proportional to \(T\). Thus, it is doubled. (Correct)
(2) Root-mean-square speed \(v_{rms} = \sqrt{\frac{3 k_B T}{m}}\) is proportional to \(\sqrt{T}\). Thus, it increases by a factor of \(\sqrt{2}\), not doubled. (Incorrect)
(3) Collision frequency is proportional to the average molecular speed since concentration is constant. It increases by a factor of \(\sqrt{2}\), not doubled. (Incorrect)
Hence, only (1) is correct.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct answer A. Correct conversion of Celsius to Kelvin is key.
A car is traveling along a straight horizontal road. At \(t=0\), the driver applies the brakes, causing the car to decelerate uniformly until it comes to rest at \(t = 2.5\text{ s}\). Let \(d_1\) be the distance traveled by the car from \(t=0\) to \(t=1\text{ s}\, and \)d_2\) be the distance traveled from \(t=1\text{ s}\) to \(t=2\text{ s}\). Find the ratio \(d_1 / d_2\).
- A.1.5
- B.2.0
- C.2.5
- D.3.0
Worked solution
Let \(u\) be the initial speed of the car at \(t=0\), and \(a\) be its deceleration. Since it stops at \(t=2.5\text{ s}\):
\(v(2.5) = u - 2.5a = 0 \implies u = 2.5a\).
The position of the car at any time \(t\) is given by:
\(s(t) = u t - \frac{1}{2} a t^2 = 2.5a t - 0.5a t^2\).
For the first second:
\(d_1 = s(1) - s(0) = 2.5a(1) - 0.5a(1)^2 = 2a\).
For the second second:
\(d_2 = s(2) - s(1) = [2.5a(2) - 0.5a(2)^2] - 2a = [5a - 2a] - 2a = 3a - 2a = a\).
Thus, the ratio \(d_1 / d_2 = 2a / a = 2.0\).
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct answer B. Consistent application of kinematic equations is required.
Two blocks, \(A\) of mass \(m\) and \(B\) of mass \(3m\), are on a smooth horizontal surface. Initially, block \(B\) is at rest, and block \(A\) moves towards \(B\) with speed \(u\). After a head-on collision, block \(A\) rebounds with a speed of \(\frac{1}{5}u\). What is the total kinetic energy of the system after the collision?
- A.\(0.13 m u^2\)
- B.\(0.26 m u^2\)
- C.\(0.38 m u^2\)
- D.\(0.50 m u^2\)
Worked solution
Let the initial direction of block \(A\) be positive.
Initial momentum: \(P_i = m u\).
After the collision, the velocity of block \(A\) is \(v_A = -\frac{1}{5}u\).
Let \(v_B\) be the final velocity of block \(B\).
By conservation of linear momentum:
\[m u = m\left(-\frac{1}{5}u\right) + 3m v_B \implies \frac{6}{5}m u = 3m v_B \implies v_B = \frac{2}{5}u\]
The total kinetic energy after collision is:
\[K_f = \frac{1}{2}m v_A^2 + \frac{1}{2}(3m) v_B^2 = \frac{1}{2}m \left(-\frac{1}{5}u\right)^2 + \frac{3}{2}m \left(\frac{2}{5}u\right)^2 = \frac{1}{50}mu^2 + \frac{12}{50}mu^2 = \frac{13}{50}mu^2 = 0.26 mu^2\]
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct answer B. Must apply conservation of momentum first to find the velocity of block B.
A block of mass \(m\) is released from rest from the top of a rough inclined plane of inclination \(\theta\). The block slides down the plane for a distance \(L\) and reaches a speed \(v\) at the bottom. What is the average power developed by the friction force on the block during this motion?
- A.\(\frac{v}{L} \left(m g L \sin\theta - \frac{1}{2} m v^2\right)\)
- B.\(\frac{v}{2L} \left(m g L \sin\theta - \frac{1}{2} m v^2\right)\)
- C.\(\frac{v}{2L} \left(m g L \sin\theta + \frac{1}{2} m v^2\right)\)
- D.\(\frac{v}{L} \left(m g L \sin\theta - m v^2\right)\)
Worked solution
The mechanical energy lost due to friction is:
\(W_{\text{lost}} = m g L \sin\theta - \frac{1}{2} m v^2\).
Since acceleration is constant, the average speed of the block is \(v_{\text{avg}} = \frac{v}{2}\).
The time taken to slide down is:
\(t = \frac{L}{v_{\text{avg}}} = \frac{2L}{v}\).
The average power of friction is:
\(P_{\text{avg}} = \frac{W_{\text{lost}}}{t} = \frac{m g L \sin\theta - \frac{1}{2} m v^2}{2L / v} = \frac{v}{2L} \left(m g L \sin\theta - \frac{1}{2} m v^2\right)\).
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct answer B. Connection between work done and average power must be applied correctly.
A ray of light is incident from medium X into medium Y. The critical angle for total internal reflection at the boundary is \(\theta_c\). If the speed of light in medium X is \(v\), what is the speed of light in medium Y?
- A.\(v \sin \theta_c\)
- B.\(\frac{v}{\sin \theta_c}\)
- C.\(\frac{\sin \theta_c}{v}\)
- D.\(v (1 - \sin \theta_c)\)
Worked solution
The critical angle \(\theta_c\) is related to the refractive indices of the two media by:
\(\sin \theta_c = \frac{n_y}{n_x}\).
Since the speed of light in a medium is inversely proportional to its refractive index, we have:
\(n_x = \frac{c}{v}\) and \(n_y = \frac{c}{v_y}\).
Substituting these into the critical angle formula:
\(\sin \theta_c = \frac{c/v_y}{c/v} = \frac{v}{v_y} \implies v_y = \frac{v}{\sin \theta_c}\).
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct answer B. Speed of light relation to refractive index is required.
Two coherent wave sources \(S_1\) and \(S_2\) vibrate in phase and produce waves of wavelength \(\lambda\). At point \(P\), constructive interference is observed, with a path difference of \(|S_1 P - S_2 P| = 2\lambda\). If the frequency of both sources is now increased by \(25\%\) while the wave speed remains unchanged, which of the following describes the interference at point \(P\)?
- A.Constructive interference because the path difference becomes \(2.5\) times the new wavelength.
- B.Destructive interference because the path difference becomes \(2.5\) times the new wavelength.
- C.Constructive interference because the path difference becomes \(1.6\) times the new wavelength.
- D.Destructive interference because the path difference becomes \(1.6\) times the new wavelength.
Worked solution
The original frequency is \(f\), and the wavelength is \(\lambda = v/f\). The path difference at \(P\) is \(\Delta = 2\lambda\).
When the frequency is increased by \(25\%\), the new frequency is \(f' = 1.25f = 1.25 \times \frac{v}{\lambda}\).
The new wavelength is \(\lambda' = \frac{v}{f'} = \frac{v}{1.25 f} = \frac{\lambda}{1.25} = 0.8\lambda\).
Thus, the path difference expressed in terms of the new wavelength is:
\(\Delta = 2\lambda = 2(1.25 \lambda') = 2.5 \lambda'\).
Since the path difference is an odd-half-integer multiple of the new wavelength, destructive interference occurs.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct answer B. Consistent reasoning about path difference and wavelength is required.
A battery of e.m.f. \(\mathcal{E}\) and internal resistance \(r\) is connected to a variable resistor of resistance \(R\). When \(R = 2\,\Omega\), the current in the circuit is \(1.2\text{ A}\). When \(R = 5\,\Omega\), the current in the circuit is \(0.6\text{ A}\). Find the e.m.f. \(\mathcal{E}\) and the internal resistance \(r\) of the battery.
- A.\(\mathcal{E} = 3.0\text{ V}\), \(r = 0.5\,\Omega\)
- B.\(\mathcal{E} = 3.6\text{ V}\), \(r = 1.0\,\Omega\)
- C.\(\mathcal{E} = 4.2\text{ V}\), \(r = 1.5\,\Omega\)
- D.\(\mathcal{E} = 4.8\text{ V}\), \(r = 2.0\,\Omega\)
Worked solution
Using the relation \(\mathcal{E} = I(R+r)\):
For the first case: \(\mathcal{E} = 1.2(2 + r)\) --- (1)
For the second case: \(\mathcal{E} = 0.6(5 + r)\) --- (2)
Equating (1) and (2):
\(1.2(2 + r) = 0.6(5 + r)\)
\(2(2 + r) = 5 + r \implies 4 + 2r = 5 + r \implies r = 1.0\,\Omega\).
Substitute \(r = 1.0\,\Omega\) into (1):
\(\mathcal{E} = 1.2(2 + 1) = 3.6\text{ V}\).
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct answer B. Solving the linear system of equations is required.
A circular metal ring is dropped horizontally from rest, passing through a region with a uniform magnetic field directed vertically downwards. The magnetic field exists only within a horizontal layer of a certain thickness, which is larger than the diameter of the ring. What are the directions of the induced current in the ring (viewed from above) as it enters and leaves the magnetic field region?
- A.Entering: Clockwise; Leaving: Anti-clockwise
- B.Entering: Anti-clockwise; Leaving: Clockwise
- C.Entering: Clockwise; Leaving: Clockwise
- D.Entering: Anti-clockwise; Leaving: Anti-clockwise
Worked solution
When the ring enters the downward magnetic field, the downward magnetic flux increases. By Lenz's law, the induced current must oppose this increase, generating an upward magnetic field. By the right-hand grip rule, the current flows anti-clockwise when viewed from above.
When the ring leaves the magnetic field, the downward magnetic flux decreases. The induced current must oppose this decrease, generating a downward magnetic field. By the right-hand grip rule, the current flows clockwise when viewed from above.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct answer B. Consistent application of Lenz's law and right-hand grip rule is required.
Two point charges, \(+Q\) and \(-4Q\), are fixed at points \(A\) and \(B\) respectively, separated by a distance \(d\) in vacuum. At which of the following positions is the net electric field strength due to these two charges equal to zero?
- A.At a distance \(d\) from \(A\) on the side opposite to \(B\)
- B.At a distance \(d\) from \(B\) on the side opposite to \(A\)
- C.Between \(A\) and \(B\), at a distance of \(\frac{d}{3}\) from \(A\)
- D.Between \(A\) and \(B\), at a distance of \(\frac{d}{2}\) from \(A\)
Worked solution
For the net electric field to be zero, the individual electric fields from \(+Q\) and \(-4Q\) must be equal in magnitude and opposite in direction. This can only occur in the region closer to the smaller charge in magnitude, i.e., to the left of \(A\) (on the side opposite to \(B\)).
Let this point be at distance \(x\) from \(A\).
Setting the field magnitudes equal:
\[\frac{k Q}{x^2} = \frac{k (4Q)}{(d + x)^2}\]
Taking the square root on both sides:
\[\frac{1}{x} = \frac{2}{d + x} \implies d + x = 2x \implies x = d\]
Thus, the position is at a distance \(d\) from \(A\) on the side opposite to \(B\).
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct answer A. Application of Coulomb's Law and electric field superposition is required.
A solid substance of mass \(0.2\text{ kg}\) is heated by a heater of power \(50\text{ W}\). The temperature-time graph of the substance shows that its temperature increases from \(20^\circ\text{C}\) to \(50^\circ\text{C}\) in the first 2 minutes, and then remains constant at \(50^\circ\text{C}\) for the next 5 minutes to melt completely. Find the specific latent heat of fusion of the substance.
- A.\(15\text{ kJ kg}^{-1}\)
- B.\(30\text{ kJ kg}^{-1}\)
- C.\(75\text{ kJ kg}^{-1}\)
- D.\(150\text{ kJ kg}^{-1}\)
Worked solution
The melting process takes place during the constant temperature period, which lasts for \(5\text{ minutes} = 300\text{ s}\). The energy supplied during this period is \(Q = P \Delta t = 50 \times 300 = 15000\text{ J}\). Using \(Q = m L_f\), we have \(15000 = 0.2 \times L_f\), which gives \(L_f = 75000\text{ J kg}^{-1} = 75\text{ kJ kg}^{-1}\).
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option C. No marks for other options.
A car accelerates from rest along a straight road. The displacement-time graph of the car is a parabola for the first \(4\text{ s}\), and then becomes a straight line afterwards. The car travels a total distance of \(48\text{ m}\) in the first \(6\text{ s}\). Find the acceleration of the car during the first \(4\text{ s}\).
- A.\(1.5\text{ m s}^{-2}\)
- B.\(2.0\text{ m s}^{-2}\)
- C.\(3.0\text{ m s}^{-2}\)
- D.\(4.0\text{ m s}^{-2}\)
Worked solution
Let \(a\) be the acceleration during the first \(4\text{ s}\). Since the graph is a parabola, acceleration is uniform. The displacement in the first \(4\text{ s}\) is \(s_1 = \frac{1}{2} a (4^2) = 8a\). The velocity at \(t = 4\text{ s}\) is \(v = a (4) = 4a\). For the remaining \(2\text{ s}\) (from \(t = 4\text{ s}\) to \(6\text{ s}\)), the car moves at constant speed \(v\), so the displacement is \(s_2 = v \times 2 = 8a\). The total distance is \(s_1 + s_2 = 16a = 48\text{ m}\), which gives \(a = 3.0\text{ m s}^{-2}\).
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option C. No marks for other options.
Two blocks \(A\) (mass \(m\)) and \(B\) (mass \(3m\)) are on a smooth horizontal surface. Block \(A\) moves with speed \(v\) towards block \(B\) which is at rest. After they collide, block \(A\) bounces back with speed \(v/5\). What fraction of the initial kinetic energy of the system is lost in the collision?
- A.\(12/25\)
- B.\(13/25\)
- C.\(1/5\)
- D.\(4/5\)
Worked solution
By conservation of momentum: \(m v = m (-v/5) + 3m v_B \Rightarrow v_B = \frac{2}{5} v\). Initial kinetic energy \(K_i = \frac{1}{2} m v^2\). Final kinetic energy \(K_f = \frac{1}{2} m (-v/5)^2 + \frac{1}{2} (3m) (2/5 v)^2 = \frac{1}{2} m v^2 [ \frac{1}{25} + \frac{12}{25} ] = \frac{13}{25} K_i\). The fraction of kinetic energy lost is \(1 - \frac{13}{25} = \frac{12}{25}\).
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option A. No marks for other options.
A light ray enters a semi-circular glass block of refractive index \(n = 1.5\) from air. Inside the glass, it strikes the flat surface of the block at the center of the semicircle at an angle of incidence \(\theta\). If the reflected ray and refracted ray are perpendicular to each other, find the value of \(\theta\).
- A.\(33.7^\circ\)
- B.\(41.8^\circ\)
- C.\(48.2^\circ\)
- D.\(56.3^\circ\)
Worked solution
The angle of reflection is \(\theta\). Let \(r\) be the angle of refraction in air. Since the reflected and refracted rays are perpendicular, we have \(\theta + 90^\circ + r = 180^\circ \Rightarrow r = 90^\circ - \theta\). By Snell's Law: \(n \sin \theta = 1 \cdot \sin r = \sin(90^\circ - \theta) = \cos \theta\). Thus, \\tan \theta = \frac{1}{n} = \frac{1}{1.5} = \frac{2}{3}\, giving \(\theta = \arctan(2/3) \approx 33.7^\circ\).
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option A. No marks for other options.
A stationary wave is formed on a stretched string of fixed length. When vibrating in its third harmonic, the frequency is \(240\text{ Hz}\). If the tension in the string is quadrupled, what is the fundamental frequency of the string?
- A.\(80\text{ Hz}\)
- B.\(160\text{ Hz}\)
- C.\(320\text{ Hz}\)
- D.\(480\text{ Hz}\)
Worked solution
The initial fundamental frequency is \(f_1 = \frac{240}{3} = 80\text{ Hz}\). The wave speed is given by \(v = \sqrt{T/\mu}\), where \(T\) is tension and \(\mu\) is linear density. When tension is quadrupled, the wave speed doubles. Since the fundamental frequency is \(f_1 = \frac{v}{2L}\), doubling the wave speed doubles the fundamental frequency, making the new fundamental frequency \(2 \times 80 = 160\text{ Hz}\).
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option B. No marks for other options.
Two small identical conducting spheres \(X\) and \(Y\) carry charges of \(+6\mu\text{C}\) and \(-2\mu\text{C}\) respectively, and are separated by a distance \(r\). The electrostatic force between them is \(F\) (attractive). If they are brought into contact and then separated back to the same distance \(r\), what is the new electrostatic force between them?
- A.\(\frac{1}{3} F\), repulsive
- B.\(\frac{1}{3} F\), attractive
- C.\(\frac{4}{3} F\), repulsive
- D.\(\frac{4}{3} F\), attractive
Worked solution
The initial force magnitude is \(F \propto |q_1 q_2| = 6 \times 2 = 12\text{ units}\). When brought into contact, the total charge of \(+4\mu\text{C}\) is shared equally, so each sphere gets \(+2\mu\text{C}\). The new force magnitude is \(F' \propto |q_1' q_2'| = 2 \times 2 = 4\text{ units}\). Hence, \(F' = \frac{4}{12} F = \frac{1}{3} F\). Since both spheres now carry positive charge, the force is repulsive.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option A. No marks for other options.
A circuit consists of a real battery of electromotive force \(\varepsilon\) and internal resistance \(r\), connected in series with a variable resistor \(R\). As the resistance of \(R\) is increased, how do the terminal potential difference across the battery \(V\) and the power dissipated in the internal resistance \(P_{\text{int}}\) change?
- A.\(V\) increases, \(P_{\text{int}}\) increases
- B.\(V\) increases, \(P_{\text{int}}\) decreases
- C.\(V\) decreases, \(P_{\text{int}}\) increases
- D.\(V\) decreases, \(P_{\text{int}}\) decreases
Worked solution
As \(R\) increases, the total resistance of the circuit increases, so the current \(I = \frac{\varepsilon}{R+r}\) decreases. The terminal potential difference is \(V = \varepsilon - I r\). Since \(I\) decreases, \(V\) increases. The power dissipated in the internal resistance is \(P_{\text{int}} = I^2 r\). Since \(I\) decreases, \(P_{\text{int}}\) decreases.
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option B. No marks for other options.
A block of mass \(m\) is sliding down a rough inclined plane at a constant velocity. The inclined plane makes an angle \(\theta\) with the horizontal. What is the magnitude of the net force exerted by the inclined plane on the block?
- A.\(mg\sin\theta\)
- B.\(mg\cos\theta\)
- C.\(mg\)
- D.\(mg(1 - \sin\theta)\)
Worked solution
Since the block moves at a constant velocity, its acceleration is zero, which means the net force acting on the block is zero. The forces acting on the block are gravity (\(mg\) downwards) and the force from the plane (which consists of the normal force \(N\) and friction \(f\)). For the total force to be zero, the force exerted by the plane must exactly balance the gravitational force. Therefore, the magnitude of the net force from the plane is \(mg\).
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option C. No marks for other options.
A square conducting loop of side length \(L\) and resistance \(R\) is pulled at a constant speed \(v\) out of a region of uniform magnetic field \(B\) (directed perpendicularly into the page). What is the external force required to keep the loop moving at this constant speed?
- A.\(\frac{B L v}{R}\)
- B.\(\frac{B^2 L^2 v}{R}\)
- C.\(\frac{B L v^2}{R}\)
- D.\(\frac{B^2 L v}{R^2}\)
Worked solution
As the loop is pulled out, the magnetic flux decreases, inducing an emf \(\varepsilon = B L v\). The induced current is \(I = \frac{\varepsilon}{R} = \frac{B L v}{R}\). The magnetic force opposing the motion of the loop is \(F_B = I L B = \left(\frac{B L v}{R}\right) L B = \frac{B^2 L^2 v}{R}\). To keep the loop moving at a constant speed, the external pulling force must be equal in magnitude to the magnetic force, which is \(\frac{B^2 L^2 v}{R}\).
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option B. No marks for other options.
An electric motor is used to lift a water bucket of mass \(10\text{ kg}\) vertically upwards. The bucket starts from rest and accelerates uniformly to a speed of \(2\text{ m s}^{-1}\) in \(2\text{ s}\). Take \(g = 9.81\text{ m s}^{-2}\). What is the average useful output power of the motor during these \(2\text{ s}\)?
- A.\(98\text{ W}\)
- B.\(108\text{ W}\)
- C.\(118\text{ W}\)
- D.\(216\text{ W}\)
Worked solution
The acceleration of the bucket is \(a = \frac{v - u}{t} = \frac{2 - 0}{2} = 1\text{ m s}^{-2}\). The upward tension force \(T\) exerted on the bucket satisfies \(T - mg = ma \Rightarrow T = m(g+a) = 10 \times (9.81 + 1) = 108.1\text{ N}\). The average velocity of the bucket is \(v_{\text{avg}} = \frac{u+v}{2} = 1\text{ m s}^{-1}\). The average useful power output is \(P = T v_{\text{avg}} = 108.1 \times 1 = 108.1\text{ W} \approx 108\text{ W}\).
Marking scheme
Award 1 mark for the correct option B. No marks for other options.
Question 21 · multiple_choice
1 marksA gas cylinder has a safety valve that opens when the pressure inside exceeds \(3.0 \times 10^5 \text{ Pa}\). Initially, the cylinder contains an ideal gas at a pressure of \(1.2 \times 10^5 \text{ Pa}\) and a temperature of \(27^\circ\text{C}\). Assuming the volume of the cylinder remains constant, what is the temperature at which the safety valve will open?
- A.\(67.5^\circ\text{C}\)
- B.\(477^\circ\text{C}\)
- C.\(750^\circ\text{C}\)
- D.\(300^\circ\text{C}\)
Worked solution
Using Charles' Law at constant volume, \(P_1 / T_1 = P_2 / T_2\). Note that temperature must be converted to Kelvin: \(T_1 = 27 + 273 = 300 \text{ K}\). Thus, \(T_2 = T_1 \times (P_2 / P_1) = 300 \times (3.0 \times 10^5 / 1.2 \times 10^5) = 750 \text{ K}\). Converting back to Celsius: \(750 - 273 = 477^\circ\text{C}\).
Marking scheme
Correct answer is B. 1 mark for selecting B.
Question 22 · multiple_choice
1 marksTwo smooth blocks \(A\) and \(B\) of masses \(m\) and \(3m\) respectively are on a smooth horizontal surface. Block \(A\) moves towards block \(B\) (which is initially at rest) with speed \(v\). If they collide head-on and elastically, what are the velocities of \(A\) and \(B\) immediately after the collision? (Take the initial direction of motion of \(A\) as positive)
- A.\(v_A = -0.5v\), \(v_B = 0.5v\)
- B.\(v_A = -v\), \(v_B = v\)
- C.\(v_A = 0\), \(v_B = 0.33v\)
- D.\(v_A = -0.25v\), \(v_B = 0.75v\)
Worked solution
By conservation of momentum: \(m v = m v_A + 3m v_B \implies v = v_A + 3v_B\). For a perfectly elastic head-on collision, relative velocity of approach equals relative velocity of separation: \(v - 0 = v_B - v_A \implies v_A = v_B - v\). Substitute: \(v = (v_B - v) + 3v_B \implies 2v = 4v_B \implies v_B = 0.5v\). Then, \(v_A = 0.5v - v = -0.5v\).
Marking scheme
Correct answer is A. 1 mark for selecting A.
Question 23 · multiple_choice
1 marksIn a double-slit interference experiment using monochromatic light, the fringe width on a screen is \(\Delta y\). If the slit separation is doubled and the distance between the slits and the screen is halved, what is the new fringe width?
- A.\(\Delta y\)
- B.\(2\Delta y\)
- C.\(0.5\Delta y\)
- D.\(0.25\Delta y\)
Worked solution
Fringe width is given by \(\Delta y = \frac{\lambda D}{d}\). If the new distance \(D' = D/2\) and new separation \(d' = 2d\), then \(\Delta y' = \frac{\lambda (D/2)}{2d} = \frac{1}{4} \frac{\lambda D}{d} = \frac{1}{4} \Delta y\).
Marking scheme
Correct answer is D. 1 mark for selecting D.
Question 24 · multiple_choice
1 marksA bar magnet is dropped vertically through the center of a horizontal copper ring. Which of the following statements about this process is/are correct? (1) Before passing through the ring, the magnet falls with an acceleration less than \(g\). (2) The induced current in the ring reverses its direction as the magnet passes through the center of the ring. (3) The copper ring experiences a downward force while the magnet is falling above the ring.
- A.(1) only
- B.(1) and (2) only
- C.(2) and (3) only
- D.(1), (2) and (3)
Worked solution
(1) is correct because the induced current in the ring opposes the motion of the incoming magnet, exerting an upward magnetic force, so \(a < g\). (2) is correct because as the magnet approaches, the magnetic flux increases, and as it leaves, the flux decreases, causing the induced current to reverse direction. (3) is correct because by Lenz's Law, the ring repels the approaching magnet, exerting an upward force on it; by Newton's third law, the magnet exerts an equal and opposite downward force on the ring.
Marking scheme
Correct answer is D. 1 mark for selecting D.
Question 25 · multiple_choice
1 marksA student mixes \(2.0 \text{ kg}\) of water at \(80^\circ\text{C}\) with \(3.0 \text{ kg}\) of a liquid \(X\) at \(20^\circ\text{C}\) in a well-insulated container. The final steady temperature of the mixture is \(50^\circ\text{C}\). What is the specific heat capacity of liquid \(X\)? (Given: specific heat capacity of water = \(4200 \text{ J kg}^{-1} \text{K}^{-1}\))
- A.\(1400 \text{ J kg}^{-1} \text{K}^{-1}\)
- B.\(2800 \text{ J kg}^{-1} \text{K}^{-1}\)
- C.\(4200 \text{ J kg}^{-1} \text{K}^{-1}\)
- D.\(6300 \text{ J kg}^{-1} \text{K}^{-1}\)
Worked solution
Using the conservation of energy (heat lost by water = heat gained by liquid X): \(m_w c_w \Delta T_w = m_x c_x \Delta T_x\). Substituting the values: \(2.0 \times 4200 \times (80 - 50) = 3.0 \times c_x \times (50 - 20) \implies 2.0 \times 4200 \times 30 = 3.0 \times c_x \times 30 \implies 2.0 \times 4200 = 3.0 \times c_x \implies c_x = 2800 \text{ J kg}^{-1} \text{K}^{-1}\).
Marking scheme
Correct answer is B. 1 mark for selecting B.
Question 26 · multiple_choice
1 marksA car of mass \(1200 \text{ kg}\) travels up a slope inclined at \(\theta\) to the horizontal, where \(\sin \theta = 0.1\). The total resistive force opposing the motion is constant at \(400 \text{ N}\). If the car's engine operates at a constant power of \(40 \text{ kW}\), what is the maximum steady speed of the car up the slope? (Take \(g = 10 \text{ m s}^{-2}\))
- A.\(10 \text{ m s}^{-1}\)
- B.\(25 \text{ m s}^{-1}\)
- C.\(33 \text{ m s}^{-1}\)
- D.\(100 \text{ m s}^{-1}\)
Worked solution
At maximum steady speed, the forward driving force \(F\) equals the sum of the components of gravity along the slope and the resistive force: \(F = m g \sin \theta + f = 1200 \times 10 \times 0.1 + 400 = 1200 + 400 = 1600 \text{ N}\). Since power \(P = F v\), the maximum speed is \(v = P / F = 40000 / 1600 = 25 \text{ m s}^{-1}\).
Marking scheme
Correct answer is B. 1 mark for selecting B.
Question 27 · multiple_choice
1 marksA resonance tube closed at one end is filled with air. A tuning fork of frequency \(512 \text{ Hz}\) is held near the open end of the tube. The first resonance occurs when the length of the air column is \(16.0 \text{ cm}\). Assuming the end correction is negligible, what is the length of the air column when the next resonance occurs?
- A.\(32.0 \text{ cm}\)
- B.\(48.0 \text{ cm}\)
- C.\(64.0 \text{ cm}\)
- D.\(80.0 \text{ cm}\)
Worked solution
For a tube closed at one end, resonance occurs when the air column length \(L\) is an odd multiple of quarter-wavelengths: \(L = (2n-1)\lambda/4\). The first resonance occurs at \(L_1 = \lambda/4 = 16.0 \text{ cm}\). The second resonance occurs at \(L_2 = 3\lambda/4 = 3 \times 16.0 = 48.0 \text{ cm}\).
Marking scheme
Correct answer is B. 1 mark for selecting B.
Question 28 · multiple_choice
1 marksThree identical resistors, each of resistance \(R\), are connected to a cell of negligible internal resistance. Two of the resistors are connected in parallel, and this combination is connected in series with the third resistor. If the total electrical power dissipated in the entire circuit is \(P\), what is the power dissipated in the third resistor?
- A.\(\frac{1}{3} P\)
- B.\(\frac{1}{2} P\)
- C.\(\frac{2}{3} P\)
- D.\(\frac{3}{4} P\)
Worked solution
The equivalent resistance of the two parallel resistors is \(R_p = R / 2\). The total resistance of the circuit is \(R_{eq} = R/2 + R = 1.5R\). Let the total current be \(I\). The total power is \(P = I^2 R_{eq} = 1.5 I^2 R\). Since the third resistor is in series, the current passing through it is also \(I\). The power dissipated in it is \(P_3 = I^2 R\). Therefore, \(P_3 / P = (I^2 R) / (1.5 I^2 R) = 1 / 1.5 = 2/3\\, so \)P_3 = \\frac{2}{3}P\).
Marking scheme
Correct answer is C. 1 mark for selecting C.
Question 29 · multiple_choice
1 marksA radioactive sample initially contains \(N_0\) active nuclei of isotope \(X\) and \(2N_0\) active nuclei of isotope \(Y\). The half-life of \(X\) is \(12 \text{ hours}\) and the half-life of \(Y\) is \(4 \text{ hours}\). After how many hours will the number of active nuclei of \(X\) and \(Y\) in the sample be equal?
- A.\(4 \text{ hours}\)
- B.\(6 \text{ hours}\)
- C.\(8 \text{ hours}\)
- D.\(12 \text{ hours}\)
Worked solution
Let \(t\) be the time in hours. The number of remaining active nuclei of X and Y are \(N_X = N_0 (1/2)^{t/12}\) and \(N_Y = 2N_0 (1/2)^{t/4}\). Setting \(N_X = N_Y\), we get \(N_0 (1/2)^{t/12} = 2N_0 (1/2)^{t/4} \implies (1/2)^{t/12} = 2 \times (1/2)^{t/4} \implies 1 = 2 \times (1/2)^{t/4 - t/12} = 2 \times (1/2)^{2t/12} = 2 \times (1/2)^{t/6} \implies (1/2)^{t/6} = 1/2 \implies t/6 = 1 \implies t = 6 \text{ hours}\).
Marking scheme
Correct answer is B. 1 mark for selecting B.
Question 30 · multiple_choice
1 marksTwo artificial satellites \(A\) and \(B\) orbit the Earth in circular orbits of radii \(R\) and \(4R\) respectively. If the orbital speed of satellite \(A\) is \(v\), what is the orbital speed of satellite \(B\)?
- A.\(2 v\)
- B.\(\frac{1}{2} v\)
- C.\(\frac{1}{4} v\)
- D.\(\frac{1}{8} v\)
Worked solution
The gravitational force provides the centripetal force: \(\frac{G M m}{r^2} = \frac{m v^2}{r} \implies v = \sqrt{\frac{G M}{r}}\). Thus, orbital speed is inversely proportional to the square root of the orbital radius, \(v \propto \frac{1}{\sqrt{r}}\). Therefore, \(v_B / v_A = \sqrt{R / 4R} = 1/2 \implies v_B = \frac{1}{2}v\).
Marking scheme
Correct answer is B. 1 mark for selecting B.
Ball A is projected horizontally with speed \(u\) from the top of a vertical tower of height \(H\). At the same instant, ball B is projected vertically upwards with speed \(v\) from the ground at a horizontal distance \(D\) from the foot of the tower. If the two balls collide in mid-air, which of the following expressions is correct? (Neglect air resistance.)
- A.\(u = \frac{v D}{H}\)
- B.\(u = \frac{v H}{D}\)
- C.\(u = \sqrt{v^2 - 2gH}\)
- D.\(u = \frac{g D^2}{2H}\)
Worked solution
For the two balls to collide, they must be at the same horizontal and vertical positions at the same time \(t\).\n\nFirst, consider the horizontal motion. Ball A travels a horizontal distance \(D\) with constant speed \(u\):\n\(D = ut \implies t = \frac{D}{u}\)\n\nSecond, consider the vertical motion. For both balls, the downward acceleration is \(g\).\nVertical position of ball A: \(y_A = H - \frac{1}{2}gt^2\)\nVertical position of ball B: \(y_B = vt - \frac{1}{2}gt^2\)\n\nFor them to collide, \(y_A = y_B\):\n\(H - \frac{1}{2}gt^2 = vt - \frac{1}{2}gt^2 \implies H = vt \implies t = \frac{H}{v}\)\n\nEquating the expression for \(t\):\n\(\frac{D}{u} = \frac{H}{v} \implies u = \frac{v D}{H}\)\n\nTherefore, the correct answer is A.
Marking scheme
1 mark for identifying the correct relationship \(u = \frac{v D}{H}\) (Option A).
A solid substance is heated from \(20^\circ\text{C}\) by a heater of constant power. The temperature of the substance increases steadily to its melting point of \(80^\circ\text{C}\) in \(4\text{ minutes}\). It then remains at \(80^\circ\text{C}\) for \(6\text{ minutes}\) until it melts completely. Find the ratio of the specific latent heat of fusion \(\ell_f\) to the specific heat capacity of the solid state \(c_s\) of this substance.
- A.\(40\text{ K}\)
- B.\(90\text{ K}\)
- C.\(135\text{ K}\)
- D.\(240\text{ K}\)
Worked solution
Let the mass of the substance be \(m\) and the power of the heater be \(P\).\n\nDuring the heating of the solid state:\n\(P \cdot t_{\text{solid}} = m c_s \Delta T\)\nwhere \(t_{\text{solid}} = 4\text{ minutes}\) and \(\Delta T = 80 - 20 = 60\text{ K}\).\n\nDuring the melting process:\n\(P \cdot t_{\text{melt}} = m \ell_f\)\nwhere \(t_{\text{melt}} = 6\text{ minutes}\).\n\nDividing the second equation by the first equation:\n\(\frac{P \cdot t_{\text{melt}}}{P \cdot t_{\text{solid}}} = \frac{m \ell_f}{m c_s \Delta T} \implies \frac{t_{\text{melt}}}{t_{\text{solid}}} = \frac{\ell_f}{c_s \Delta T}\)\n\nRearranging the equation to find the ratio \(\frac{\ell_f}{c_s}\):\n\(\frac{\ell_f}{c_s} = \frac{t_{\text{melt}}}{t_{\text{solid}}} \cdot \Delta T = \frac{6\text{ min}}{4\text{ min}} \times 60\text{ K} = 1.5 \times 60\text{ K} = 90\text{ K}\).\n\nTherefore, the correct answer is B.
Marking scheme
1 mark for identifying the correct ratio value of \(90\text{ K}\) (Option B).
A rigid, triangular conducting loop (in the shape of an isosceles right-angled triangle) enters a region of uniform magnetic field at a constant velocity \(v\) directed parallel to one of its shorter sides. One of its acute-angled vertices enters the field first at time \(t=0\). Before the loop is completely inside the magnetic field, how does the magnitude of the induced electromotive force (e.m.f.) \(\varepsilon\) in the loop vary with time \(t\)?
- A.\(\varepsilon\) is constant
- B.\(\varepsilon \propto t^2\)
- C.\(\varepsilon \propto t\)
- D.\(\varepsilon \propto \frac{1}{t}\)
Worked solution
Let the magnetic field strength be \(B\). As the triangular loop enters the magnetic field with constant velocity \(v\), the area of the loop inside the magnetic field at time \(t\) is a right-angled triangle with base and height both equal to \(vt\).\n\nThus, the area inside the field at time \(t\) is:\n\(A(t) = \frac{1}{2} (vt)(vt) = \frac{1}{2} v^2 t^2\)\n\nThe magnetic flux \(\Phi\) linking the loop is:\n\(\Phi(t) = B A(t) = \frac{1}{2} B v^2 t^2\)\n\nAccording to Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction, the magnitude of the induced e.m.f. \(\varepsilon\) is:\n\(\varepsilon = \frac{d\Phi}{dt} = B v^2 t\)\n\nSince \(B\) and \(v\) are constants, \(\varepsilon \propto t\). Therefore, the magnitude of the induced e.m.f. is directly proportional to time \(t\).\n\nHence, the correct answer is C.
Marking scheme
1 mark for identifying that \(\varepsilon \propto t\) (Option C).