Professional Documents
Culture Documents
iGCSE Notes Numbered PDF
iGCSE Notes Numbered PDF
for the
Cambridge iGCSE Syllabus
B. Murphy
Contents
Topic
Topic 1
Topic 2
Topic 3
Topic 4
Topic 5
Page Number
General Physics
Past Paper Questions
Thermal Physics
Past Paper Questions
Waves
Past Paper Questions
Electricity & Magnetism
Past Paper Questions
Atomic Physics
Past Paper Questions
Appendix
Syllabus
2
26
70
83
108
120
146
173
214
221
234
Topic 1:
General Physics
Length
Time
3
2
Speed
It is measured in m/s.
Average Speed (m s) =
Examples
Distance (m)
Time (s)
Running
70
12
Walking
10
35
Hopping
50
110
Speed (m/s)
Acceleration
It is measured in m/s2.
Change in speed ( m s )
time taken (s)
Example:
6
3
Distance/time graphs
time
(a)
(b)
d
(c)
d
9
4
Distance/Time Graph
questions
Calculate the speeds of the car and the bike
below:
Distance (m)
500
375
Car
Bike
250
125
0
0
10
15
20
25
10
Time (s)
Speed/time graphs
A Speed/time graph is an alternative way
of representing motion.
speed
Non-Uniform
Acceleration
Constant speed
Rapid acceleration
Gradual acceleration
Stationary
time
11
12
5
(a)
(b)
v
(c)
v
13
Speed/time calculation.
(b) Find the distance moved by the bike in the first 20s.
Motion of a bike
15.00
Speed (m/s)
11.25
7.50
3.75
0
0
10
15
20
14
time (s)
The Ticker-Timer
Ticker Tape
Ticker Timer
15
6
Ticker Tape
16
Charts
17
18
7
Calculations
19
20
1
Big
Stone
Small
Stone
Paper
Tray
3
Small
Stone
Paper
Coin
Vacuum
Sand
Bucket
Sand
Bucket
21
8
Gravity
Experiment 1
Experiment 2
Experiment 3
22
23
Density
It is given by:
Density ( kg m 3 ) =
mass(kg)
volume(m 3 )
or
Density ( g cm 3 ) =
mass(g)
volume(cm 3 )
24
9
Density Calculation
Complete the following table:
Object
Density (kg/
m3)
A
B
8000
2000
Mass (kg)
Volume (m3)
4000
2
4
1000
2000
25
Irregular objects
26
Hookes Law
27
10
Extension/Force Graphs
28
Load/Extension Graphs
29
Extension/Force Graphs
extension
Proportionality
Limit
Linear Region
Load
30
11
Remain at rest
or
31
Normal
Normal
Air
Air
Gravity
Gravity
Remains at rest
Moves at a
constant speed
in a straight
line
32
Falls at a
constant
speed in a
straight line.
Gravity
33
12
Unbalanced Forces
If the forces around an object do not balance, then
they will cause the object to accelerate (or
decelerate).
Questions
35
6000 N
400 N
10 000 N
A front wheel drive car is travelling at constant velocity. Q is the force of the air on the moving car.
P is the total upward force on both front wheels.
(a) Explain why P= 4 000N, Q= 400N
(b) Calculate the mass of the car.
(c) The 400 N driving force to the left is suddenly doubled.
(iii) Sketch a graph showing how the velocity of the car changes with time (start the graph just
before the driving force is doubled.)
13
36
Circular Motion
direction of force
37
Questions
38
Moments
It is given by:
39
14
Example
0.1m
100N
40
Clockwise
moments
Anti-clockwise
moments
41
Results
Left-Hand Side
Right-Hand Side
Weight
Distance
Weight
Distance
Wxd
Wxd
42
15
Moments Questions
20 cm
25 cm
4N
43
Uses of Levers
Spanner
Nutcracker
Scissors
44
Centre of Mass
45
16
Regular Objects
46
Stability
47
Simple Addition
3N
5N
RESULTANT
2N
48
17
2D-Addition
RESULTANT
3m/s
2m/s
2m/s
3m/s
49
Examples
1. A plane flies North at 40m/s. The wind
blows to the East at 15 m/s. Calculate the
overall velocity.
50
Heat
Sound
Kinetic
Electricity
Elastic
Potential
Energy
Energy
Forms
Light
Gravitational
Potential
Energy
Chemical
Potential
Energy
51
18
Energy Transfers
Light
Electricity
T.V
Sound
Heat
52
A burning match
A lightbulb
A petrol lawnmower
A car
Headphones
A microphone
A waterfall
53
Kinetic Energy
All objects that are moving have kinetic energy.
It depends on the mass of the object and its speed.
It is measured in joules.
KE =
1 2
mv
2
54
19
Gravitational Energy
Gravitational energy is stored in objects that
are at a height.
It measured in joules.
GPE = mgh
55
56
Eciency
The more useful energy that is produced, for the least input energy, the
more ecient the process is.
Efficiency =
output
(100)
input
57
20
Work Done
Work is a type of energy change and is measured
in Joules.
58
Power
Power is the rate at which energy is transferred.
It is also the rate at which Work is done.
The unit for Power is Watts (W).
Power is calculated from either:
Power(W )=
Energy Change(J )
Time Taken(s)
or
Power(W )=
Work Done(J )
Time Taken(s)
59
time
weight
60
21
Pressure
It is calculated from:
Pressure( N m 2 )=
Force(N )
Force(N )
2
or Pressure( N cm )=
2
Area(m )
Area(cm 2 )
61
Examples
2cm
1cm
20g
1cm
1.
2.
3.
62
Examples
63
22
Pressure in Liquids
Pressure in a liquid is due to
the weight of the liquid
above a point.
Pressure increases with
depth.
Pressure will also increase
with density of liquid
(more weight).
P = gd
64
Direction
65
Questions
66
23
Non-Renewable Energy
Resources
67
68
Nuclear Fusion
Safety
Pollution
Problems
Energy usage
Transport
Electricity
The Energy
Crisis
Fossil Fuels
Pollution
Depletion
Renewable
Alternatives
Advantages
Unreliable
Not Controllable
Energy Density
Nuclear Fission
Energy
Density
Pollution
Safety
69
24
General Physics
Quantity and
symbol
Scalar Quantities
Vector Quantities
Average Speed, s
Velocity
Acceleration, a
Mass, m
Weight, W, F
Density,
Force, F
Load, (Hookes
law)
Moment
Equilibrium
Work done, W, E
Kinetic energy,
KE
Definition/Word equation
Scalar quantities only have a magnitude.
Vector quantities have a magnitude, a direction
and a point of application.
Speed is the rate of change of distance. It is a
scalar quantity.
Speed = Total distance
Total time
For constant acceleration situations, the
average speed is also equal to the average of
the initial and final speeds.
s = initial speed + final speed
2
Velocity is the rate of change of displacement.
It is speed in a given direction. A vector
quantity.
Acceleration is the rate of change of velocity.
Acceleration = Final velocity initial velocity
Time
Mass is a property of a body that resists change
in motion.
Weight is the force on a mass due to the
gravitational field of the Planet. It changes
from planet to planet. Weights can be
compared using a balance.
Weight = mass x acceleration due to gravity
Weight = mass x gravitational field strength
Density is the mass per unit volume.
Density = mass
volume
A force is a push or a pull; it can change the
shape, direction, and/or speed of an object.
Force = mass x acceleration
Load = spring constant x extension
Load extension
A moment is the turning affect of a force.
Moment = force x perpendicular distance from
the pivot
When there is no resultant force AND no
resulting turning affect, a system is in
equilibrium.
Work done = Force x distance in the direction
of the force = change in energy
Kinetic energy is the energy of a body due to
its motion.
Kinetic energy = x mass x velocity2
25
Symbol
equation
Units
s=d
t
s=u+v
2
m/s
cm/s
km/h
m/s
cm/s
km/h
a= vu
t
m/s2
W=mxg
Newtons,
N
=m
V
Kg/m3
g/cm3
F=ma
Newtons,
N
F=kl
F l
Newtons,
N
Moment = F d
Nm
W = F d = E
Joules, J
KE = m v2
Joules, J
Gravitational
energy, GPE
Efficiency
Power, P
GPE = m g h
%
P=E
t
Pressure, p, P
Pressure = force
area
P=F
A
Fluid Pressure, p,
P
P=gh
26
Joules, J
Watts, W
N/m2
Pascals,
Pa
millibar
N/m2
Pascals,
Pa
Millibar
iGCSE Physics
Past Paper Questions
Paper 1 Compilation
General Physics
27
2
11. The diagram shows the level of liquid in a measuring cylinder.
cm3
30
liquid
20
24 cm3
28 cm3
29 cm3
32 cm3
22. A cylindrical can is rolled along the ruler shown in the diagram.
final position
starting position
can rolled
mark on
can
0 cm
10
15
20
13 cm
14 cm
26 cm
0625/1/M/J/02
28
28 cm
25
30 cm
3
33. The graph shows how the speed of a car changes with time.
speed
P
time
Which of the following gives the distance travelled in time interval OR?
A
the length PQ
movement
of snail
30 cm
snail
0.0067 s
6.0 s
15 s
150 s
What are correct units used for mass and for weight?
mass
weight
kg
kg
kg
kg
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29
[Turn over
4
66. Two objects X and Y are placed on a beam as shown. The beam balances on a pivot at its
centre.
Y
X
pivot
What does this show about X and Y?
A
77. A shop-keeper places two identical blocks of cheese on a set of scales and notices that their
combined mass is 240 g. Each block measures 2.0 cm x 5.0 cm x 10.0 cm.
0.42 g / cm3
0.83 g / cm3
1.2 g / cm3
2.4 g / cm3
88. The table shows the length of a wire as the load on it is increased.
load / N
length / cm
0
50.0
10
20
30
52.1
54.1
56.3
Which subtraction should be made to find the extension caused by the 20 N load?
A
54.1 cm 0 cm
54.1 cm 50.0 cm
54.1 cm 52.1 cm
56.3 cm 54.1 cm
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30
5
99. A child tries to push over a large empty oil drum.
Where should the drum be pushed to topple it over with least force?
A
10.
10 Which device is designed to convert chemical energy into kinetic energy (energy of motion)?
A
an a.c. generator
a battery-powered torch
a car engine
11.
11 A ball is released from rest and rolls down a track from the position shown.
What is the furthest position the ball could reach?
C
ball
starts
here
B
D
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31
[Turn over
6
12
12. Two sharp nails and two blunt nails are held on a piece of wood. Each nail is hit with the same
hammer with the same amount of force.
When it is hit, which nail causes the greatest pressure on the wood?
A
B
hammer
sharp nails
D
hammer
blunt nails
carbon dioxide
5 cm
mercury
manometer
Which statement correctly describes the pressure exerted by the carbon dioxide?
A
It is equal to 5 cm of mercury.
0625/1/M/J/02
32
2
114. A glass tank contains some water.
V
water
Q
U
R
The length QR and the width RS of the tank are known.
What other distance needs to be measured in order to be able to calculate the volume of the
water?
A
ST
SV
TU
TV
2
A stopwatch is used to time a race. The diagrams show the watch at the start and at the end of the
15.
race.
start
55
end
60
55
10
50
40
35
30
45.7 s
46.0 s
15
40
25
46.5 s
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33
47.0 s
20
seconds
35
10
45
20
seconds
50
15
45
60
30
25
3
316. The diagram shows a speed-time graph for a body moving with constant acceleration.
speed
time
acceleration
distance
speed
time
417. A tunnel has a length of 50 km. A car takes 20 min to travel between the two ends of the tunnel.
What is the average speed of the car?
A
2.5 km / h
16.6 km / h
150 km / h
1000 km / h
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34
[Turn over
4
619. Three children, X, Y and Z, are using a see-saw to compare their weights.
X
Which line in the table shows the correct order of the childrens weights?
heaviest
lightest
821. A spring is suspended from a stand. Loads are added and the extensions are measured.
spring
stand
loads
rule
load
load
0625/01/M/J/03
35
extension
extension
extension
extension
load
load
5
922. A student uses a stand and clamp to hold a flask of liquid.
Which diagram shows the most stable arrangement?
A
10
23. What is the source of the energy converted by a hydro-electric power station?
A
hot rocks
falling water
oil
waves
24. A labourer on a building site lifts heavy concrete blocks onto a lorry. Lighter blocks are now lifted
11
the same distance in the same time.
What happens to the work done in lifting each block and the power exerted by the labourer?
work done in
lifting each block
power exerted by
labourer
decreases
decreases
decreases
increases
increases
increases
0625/01/M/J/03
36
[Turn over
liquid
ammeter
barometer
manometer
thermometer
13
26. The diagrams show two divers swimming in the sea and two divers swimming in fresh water. Sea
water is more dense than fresh water.
On which diver is there the greatest pressure?
0m
0m
sea water
A
2m
4m
fresh water
C
2m
6m
4m
6m
14
27. When water evaporates, some molecules escape.
Which molecules escape?
A
the molecules at the bottom of the liquid with less energy than others
the molecules at the bottom of the liquid with more energy than others
0625/01/M/J/03
37
2
128. The diagram shows a me asuring cylinder.
100
90
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
mm 2
mm 3
cm 2
cm 3
29.
2 A piece of cotton is me asured betwe en two points on a ruler.
cotton
cm
10
11
12
13
14
15
When the length of cotton is wound closely around a pen, it goes round six times.
six turns of cotton
pen
2.2 cm
U C L E S 2004
2.6 cm
13.2 cm
0625/01/M/J/04
38
15.6 cm
16
3
330. The diagram shows the speed-time graph for an object moving at constant speed.
2
speed
m/s
1
0
0
3
time / s
1.5 m
2.0 m
3.0 m
6.0 m
32.
5 Which statement about the mass of a falling object is correct?
A
It is measured in newtons.
UCLES 2004
0625/01/M/J/04
39
[Turn over
4
633. The weights of four objects, 1 to 4, are compared using a balance.
4
2
object 1
object 2
object 3
object 4
cm3 / g
g / cm2
g / cm3
kg / m2
M
M
M
936. An experiment is carried out to measure the extension of a rubber band for different loads.
The results are shown below.
load / N
length / cm
15.2
16.2
1.0
extension / cm
3
18.6
2.1
3.4
16.5
UCLES 2004
17.3
17.4
0625/01/M/J/04
40
18.3
chemical
gravitational
kinetic
strain
38.
11 A boy and a girl run up a hill in the same time.
UCLES 2004
0625/01/M/J/04
41
[Turn over
39. The diagram shows a simple mercury barometer. The barometer re ading is h cm of mercury.
12
S
mercury
approximately z ero
atmospheric pressure
h cm of mercury
41. Two boys X and Y e ach have the same total weight and are standing on soft ground.
13
X
Which boy is more likely to sink into the soft ground and why?
boy more
likely to sink
pressure on soft
ground
larger than Y
smaller than Y
larger than X
smaller than X
U C L E S 2004
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42
2
142. A decorator wishes to calculate the area of a bathroom tile so that he can estimate the amount of
adhesive that he needs to buy.
What must he use?
A
a ruler only
aluminium
lead
wood
44. A car accelerates from traffic lights. The graph shows how the cars speed changes with time.
3
speed
m/s
20
0
0
10
time / s
How far does the car travel before it reaches a steady speed?
A
10 m
UCLES 2005
20 m
100 m
0625/01/M/J/05
43
200 m
The mass of a bottle of water at the North Pole is different from its mass at the Equator.
The weight of a bottle of water and its mass are the same thing.
Two blocks X and Y are placed on a beam as shown. The beam balances on a pivot at its centre.
Y
X
pivot
647. The masses of a measuring cylinder before and after pouring some liquid into it are shown in the
diagram.
cm3
cm3
200
200
100
100
liquid
mass = 80 g
mass = 180 g
100 g / cm3
120
UCLES 2005
100 g / cm3
140
180 g / cm3
120
0625/01/M/J/05
44
180 g / cm3
140
[Turn over
4
7 A girl and a boy are pulling in opposite directions on a rope. The forces acting on the rope are
48.
shown in the diagram.
girl
boy
200 N
150 N
rope
49. Which single force has the same effect as the two forces shown?
A
850. Objects with different masses are hung on a 10 cm spring. The diagram shows how much the
spring stretches.
10 cm
20 cm
30 cm
100 g
The extension of the spring is directly proportional to the mass hung on it.
What is the mass of object M?
A
110 g
UCLES 2005
150 g
200 g
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45
300 g
capacitor
generator
motor
transformer
chemical energy.
electrical energy.
gravitational energy.
internal energy.
11
53. A ball is released from rest and rolls down a track from the position shown.
What is the furthest position the ball could reach?
ball
starts
here
UCLES 2005
0625/01/M/J/05
46
[Turn over
54. A water manometer is used to measure the pressure of a gas supply to a house. It gives a
12
reading of h cm of water.
gas
supply
h cm
55. Why is it better to use water rather than mercury in this manometer?
A
13
56. A farmer has two carts. The carts have the same weight, but one has four narrow wheels and the
other has four wide wheels.
narrow wheel
wide wheel
In rainy weather, which cart sinks le s s into soft ground, and why?
cart wheels
why
narrow
narrow
wide
wide
U C L E S 2005
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47
57. A measuring cylinder contains some water. When a stone is put in the water, the level rises.
1
cm3
200
cm3
200
150
150
100
100
50
50
stone
50 cm3
70 cm3
75 cm3
125 cm3
8
6
4
2
0
time / s
2m
10 m
25 m
50 m
10 m
UCLES 2006
30 m
90 m
0625/01/M/J/06
48
135 m
60. Below are four statements about the effects of forces on objects.
4
Three of the statements are correct.
Which statement is incorrect?
A
561. A simple balance has two pans suspended from the ends of arms of equal length. When it is
balanced, the pointer is at 0.
arm
pivot
pointer
0
pan X
pan Y
Four masses (in total) are placed on the pans, with one or more on pan X and the rest on pan Y.
Which combination of masses can be used to balance the pans?
A
1 g, 1 g, 5 g, 10 g
1 g, 2 g, 2 g, 5 g
2 g, 5 g, 5 g, 10 g
2 g, 5 g, 10 g, 10 g
6 A person measures the length, width, height and mass of a rectangular metal block.
62.
Which of these measurements are needed in order to calculate the density of the metal?
A
mass only
UCLES 2006
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49
[Turn over
4
763. Two forces act on an object.
In which situation is it impossible for the object to be in equilibrium?
A
64.
8 The diagram shows four models of buses placed on different ramps.
centre
of mass
centre
of mass
centre
of mass
centre
of mass
chemical
light
nuclear
sound
10 A labourer on a building site lifts a heavy concrete block onto a lorry. He then lifts a light block the
66.
same distance in the same time.
Which of the following is true?
work done in lifting the
blocks
UCLES 2006
0625/01/M/J/06
50
A
B
D
C
68. A manometer is being used to me asure the pressure of the gas inside a tank. A, B, C and D
12
show the manometer at different times.
At which time is the gas pressure inside the tank gre atest?
gas
at random
in circles
U C L E S 2006
0625/01/M/J/06
51
[Turn over
iGCSE Physics
Past Paper Questions
Paper 3 Compilation
General Physics
52
2
11. A group of students attempts to find out how much power each student can generate. The
students work in pairs in order to find the time taken for each student to run up a flight of
stairs.
The stairs used are shown in Fig. 1.1.
finishing point
starting point
Fig. 1.1
(a) Make a list of all the readings that would be needed. Where possible, indicate how the
accuracy of the readings could be improved.
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................... [4]
(b) Using words, not symbols, write down all equations that would be needed to work out
the power of a student.
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................... [2]
(c) (i)
When the student has reached the finishing point and is standing at the top of the
stairs, what form of energy has increased to its maximum?
...................................................................................................................................
(ii)
Suggest why the total power of the student is greater than the power calculated by
this method.
...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
[3]
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53
For
Examiners
Use
For
Examiners
Use
22. A small rubber ball falls vertically, hits the ground and rebounds vertically upwards.
Fig. 2.1 is the speed-time graph for the ball.
10
speed
8
m/s
6
4
2
0
A
0
C
0.5
1.0
1.5
time / s
2.0
Fig. 2.1
(a) Using information from the graph, describe the following parts of the motion of the ball.
(i)
part AB
...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
(ii)
part DE
...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
[3]
(b) Explain what is happening to the ball along the part of the graph from B through C to D.
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................... [2]
(c) Whilst the ball is in contact with the ground, what is the
(i)
(ii)
54
[Turn over
4
(d) Use your answer to (c) to explain the difference between speed and velocity.
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................... [2]
(e) Use the graph to calculate the distance travelled by the ball between D and E.
Use the graph to calculate the deceleration of the ball between D and E.
deceleration = ..................................[2]
0625/3/M/J/02
55
For
Examiners
Use
2
13. Fig. 1.1 shows apparatus that may be used to compare the strengths of two springs of the
same size, but made from different materials.
spring
scale
masses
Fig. 1.1
(a) (i)
(ii) Explain why this force, like all forces, is a vector quantity.
...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
[2]
(b) Fig. 1.2 shows the graphs obtained when the two springs are stretched.
force/N
20
spring 1
15
spring 2
10
5
0
10
20
30
extension/mm
Fig. 1.2
0625/3/M/J/03
56
40
For
Examiners
Use
3
(i)
State which spring is more difficult to extend. Quote values from the graphs to
support your answer.
For
Examiners
Use
...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
(ii)
On the graph of spring 2, mark a point P at the limit of proportionality. Explain your
choice of point P.
...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
(iii)
Use the graphs to find the difference in the extensions of the two springs when a
force of 15 N is applied to each one.
deceleration = ..................................[3]
distance = ..................................[2]
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[Turn over
4
35. Fig. 3.1 shows the arm of a crane when it is lifting a heavy box.
1220 N
950 N
40 30
P
box
Fig. 3.1
(a) By the use of a scale diagram (not calculation) of the forces acting at P, find the weight
of the box.
[5]
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For
Examiners
Use
For
Examiners
Use
5
(b) Another box of weight 1500 N is raised vertically by 3.0 m.
(i)
The crane takes 2.5 s to raise this box 3.0 m. Calculate the power output of the
crane.
power = ..................................
[4]
Fig. 4.1 shows a sealed glass syringe that contains air and many very tiny suspended dust
particles.
syringe
seal
piston
dust particles
Fig. 4.1
(a) Explain why the dust particles are suspended in the air and do not settle to the bottom.
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................................[3]
(b) The air in the syringe is at a pressure of 2.0 105 Pa. The piston is slowly moved into the
syringe, keeping the temperature constant, until the volume of the air is reduced from
80 cm3 to 25 cm3. Calculate the final pressure of the air.
pressure = ..................................[3]
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[Turn over
For
Examiners
Use
v = 6 m/s
D
Fig. 1.1
A cyclist starts at A and follows the path ABCDEB.
The speed-time graph is shown in Fig. 1.2.
B
6
speed
m/s 5
4
3
2
1
0A
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
time / s
Fig. 1.2
(a) Use information from Fig. 1.1 and Fig. 1.2 to describe the motion of the cyclist
(i)
along AB,
...................................................................................................................................
(ii)
along BCDEB.
...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
[4]
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For
Examiners
Use
distance =
(ii)
circumference =
[4]
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[Turn over
4
27. Fig. 2.1 shows a rock that is falling from the top of a cliff into the river below.
cliff
falling
rock
river
Fig. 2.1
(a) The mass of the rock is 75 kg. The acceleration of free fall is 10 m/s2.
Calculate the weight of the rock.
weight = [1]
(b) The rock falls from rest through a distance of 15 m before it hits the water.
Calculate its kinetic energy just before hitting the water. Show your working.
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For
Examiners
Use
For
Examiners
Use
38. A large spring is repeatedly stretched by an athlete to increase the strength of his arms.
Fig. 3.1 is a table showing the force required to stretch the spring.
extension of spring / m
force exerted to produce extension / N
0.096
0.192
0.288
0.384
250
500
750
1000
Fig. 3.1
(a) (i)
(ii)
Use the results in Fig. 3.1 to show that the spring obeys Hookes law.
[1]
(b) Another athlete using a different spring exerts an average force of 400 N to enable her
to extend the spring by 0.210 m.
(i)
Calculate the work done by this athlete in extending the spring once.
work done =
(ii)
She is able to extend the spring by this amount and to release it 24 times in 60 s.
Calculate the power used by this athlete while doing this exercise.
power =
[4]
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[Turn over
2
19. A solid plastic sphere falls towards the Earth.
Fig. 1.1 is the speed-time graph of the fall up to the point where the sphere hits the Earths
surface.
140
speed
m/s
120
100
80
60
Q
40
20
0
P
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70 80
time / s
90
100 110
Fig. 1.1
(a) Describe in detail the motion of the sphere shown by the graph.
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................... [3]
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For
Examiners
Use
3
(b) On Fig. 1.2, draw arrows to show the directions of the forces acting on the sphere when
it is at the position shown by point S on the graph. Label your arrows with the names of
the forces.
[2]
Fig. 1.2
(c) Explain why the sphere is moving with constant speed at S.
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................... [2]
(d) Use the graph to calculate the approximate distance that the sphere falls
(i)
between R and T,
(ii)
between P and Q.
distance = . [2]
distance = . [2]
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[Turn over
For
Examiners
Use
4
210. Fig. 2.1 shows a simple pendulum that swings backwards and forwards between P and Q.
support
string
pendulum bob
Fig. 2.1
(a) The time taken for the pendulum to swing from P to Q is approximately 0.5 s.
Describe how you would determine this time as accurately as possible.
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................... [2]
(b) (i)
State the two vertical forces acting on the pendulum bob when it is at position R.
1. ...............................................................................................................................
2. .......................................................................................................................... [1]
(ii)
The pendulum bob moves along the arc of a circle. State the direction of the
resultant of the two forces in (i).
.............................................................................................................................. [1]
(c) The mass of the bob is 0.2 kg. During the swing it moves so that P is 0.05 m higher
than R.
Calculate the increase in potential energy of the pendulum bob between R and P.
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For
Examiners
Use
5
311. A mass of 3.0 kg accelerates at 2.0 m/s2 in a straight line.
(a) State why the velocity and the acceleration are both described as vector quantities.
..........................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................... [1]
(b) Calculate the force required to accelerate the mass.
force = . [2]
(c) The mass hits a wall.
The average force exerted on the wall during the impact is 120 N.
The area of the mass in contact with the wall at impact is 0.050 m2.
Calculate the average pressure that the mass exerts on the wall during the impact.
pressure = . [2]
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[Turn over
For
Examiners
Use
2
112. A bus travels from one bus stop to the next. The journey has three distinct parts. Stated in
order they are
uniform acceleration from rest for 8.0 s,
uniform speed for 12 s,
non-uniform deceleration for 5.0 s.
Fig. 1.1 shows only the deceleration of the bus.
15
speed
m/s
10
10
15
time/s
20
25
Fig. 1.1
(a) On Fig. 1.1, complete the graph to show the first two parts of the journey.
[3]
(b) Calculate the acceleration of the bus 4.0 s after leaving the first bus stop.
acceleration = ........................[2]
(c) Use the graph to estimate the distance the bus travels between 20 s and 25 s.
force = ........................[2]
(e) The acceleration of the bus from the second bus stop is less than that from the first bus
stop.
Suggest two reasons for this.
1. ......................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
2. ......................................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................................[2]
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For
Examiners
Use
3
213. A student sets up the apparatus shown in Fig. 2.1 in order to find the resultant of the two
tensions T1 and T2 acting at P. When the tensions T1, T2 and T3 are balanced, the angles
between T1 and the vertical and T2 and the vertical are as marked on Fig. 2.1.
pulley
pulley
T1 = 6.0 N
69
T2 = 8.0 N
44
vertical
board
P
T3
Fig. 2.1
In the space below, draw a scale diagram of the forces T1 and T2. Use the diagram to find the
resultant of the two forces.
State
(a) the scale used,
scale = ........................................
value = ........................................
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direction = ........................................
[6]
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[Turn over
For
Examiners
Use
4
314. An electric pump is used to raise water from a well, as shown in Fig. 3.1.
pump
ground
well
Fig. 3.1
(a) The pump does work in raising the water. State an equation that could be used to
calculate the work done in raising the water.
......................................................................................................................................[2]
(b) The water is raised through a vertical distance of 8.0 m. The weight of water raised in
5.0 s is 100 N.
(i)
power = ........................[1]
(iii)
The energy transferred by the pump to the water is greater than your answer to (i).
Suggest what the additional energy is used for.
..............................................................................................................................[1]
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For
Examiners
Use
Topic 2:
Thermal Physics
Solids
The particles in solids are tightly held together by strong
forces.
They vibrate around mean positions.
The higher the temperature, the more vibrational kinetic
energy the particles have.
Solids have a rigid shape.
Liquids
In liquids the forces are strong, but the vibrating
particles are not fixed in position.
The particles can move but they are held close to their
neighbours.
Liquids do not keep their shape.
3
71
Gases
In gases the forces are very weak and they are virtually
free to move around their container.
The particles occasionally collide.
Gases expand to fill their container.
The collisions between the particles and the container
walls provides pressure.
Changing State
When a material changes from one state to another,
bonds are either broken or created.
When bonds are broken, heat must be supplied. When
bonds are created, heat is released.
When materials change state there is no change in the
temperature.
Phase Changes
The phase change from solid to liquid is called fusion.
The phase change from liquid to gas is called
vaporisation.
The energy required to effect the phase change is called
the Latent Heat.
The Latent Heat required per kg is called the Specific
Latent Heat.
6
72
Temperature
liquid
water
fusion
Time
H = ml
H-J
m - kg
l - J/kg
Heat Capacity
Whilst a material is being heated within a certain state
of matter, its temperature will rise.
The temperature rise depends upon the mass of the
material, the type of material and the amount of heat
supplied.
The property of a material that represents how much
heat is needed to raise its temperature is called its
Specific Heat Capacity and is given the symbol c.
9
73
Calculations
To calculate heat required we use:
H = mcT
H-J
m - kg
C - J/kg/
C
T - C
10
Constant Volume
If we increase the temperature of a gas in a
11
Constant Pressure
12
74
Constant Temperature
P1V1 = P2V2
13
Brownian Motion
14
Expansion
Generally, objects expand as they get hotter and contract as they get cooler.
Liquids expand more than solids on heating, and gases expand more than liquids.
Solids expand with the greatest force. Gases expand with the least force.
15
75
Questions on Expansion
16
Temperature Scales
17
Internal Energy
The Kelvin Temperature is proportional to
the average kinetic energy of the particles.
18
76
Evaporation
Evaporation is a process by which a liquid
cools due to the fact that particles are lost
from its surface.
19
Changing State
When a material changes from one state to another,
bonds are either broken or created. This involves an
associated Internal Energy change.
When bonds are broken, heat must be supplied.
When bonds are created, Heat is released.
Since the energy changes are entirely Internal, there
is no change in kinetic energy of the particles, and
hence no change in the temperature of the material.
20
Thermometry
To make a thermometer, we need a property that
changes with temperature in a linear fashion.
We then need to calibrate the thermometer by
choosing two fixed points.
The fixed points for calibration are the boiling point
of water (100C) and the freezing point of water
(0C).
The scale is then divided into 100 equal parts for
interpolation.
21
77
22
Thermocouple
The higher the temperature, the more energy the electrons will have, more
electrons will move and we get a greater voltage.
23
Heat Transfer
24
78
Conduction
Heat
Heat
25
Questions on Conduction.
1. Why does a robin flu up its feathers in Winter?
2. Why is a string vest warmer than a cotton vest?
3. Design an experiment to compare conductors.
26
Convection
Cool fluid in
a beaker.
Convection
currents
circulate the
heat.
Heat source
is applied.
Warm fluid
expands and
rises. (low
density)
Denser Cool
fluid sinks
Heat
27
79
Questions on Convection
28
Radiation
Hot object
(warmer than
surroundings).
Infra-red
light energy
emitted..
Cooler
object
29
Radiation
30
80
Questions on Radiation
31
silver
surface
vacuum
32
81
Thermal Physics
Quantity and
symbol
Symbol
equation
Definition
82
units
o
C, K
Temperature
must be the
absolute
temperature
in Kelvin,
K.
The other
quantities
must be
consistent.
J/ oC
J/kg oC
Jkg oC
J
J/kg
J/g
J/kg
J/g
Convection
Radiation
83
iGCSE Physics
Past Paper Questions
Paper 1 Compilation
Thermal Physics
84
7
141. The diagram represents molecules in a liquid.
A and C are molecules with a high amount of energy.
B and D are molecules with a low amount of energy.
Which molecule is most likely to be leaving the liquid by evaporation?
152. The size of a balloon increases when the pressure inside it increases.
The balloon gets bigger when it is left in the heat from the Sun.
cool balloon
hot balloon
The air molecules inside the balloon all move outwards when it is heated.
The air molecules inside the balloon are bigger when it is heated.
The air molecules inside the balloon move more quickly when it is heated.
The number of air molecules inside the balloon increases when it is heated.
3. What must expand in order to show the temperature rise in a mercury-in-glass thermometer?
16
A
the mercury
the vacuum
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85
[Turn over
8
174. The table shows the melting points and boiling points of four substances.
Which substance is a liquid at a room temperature of 20 oC?
substance
melting point / oC
boiling point / oC
101
35
39
357
30
2100
327
1750
18
5. A bar made of half wood and half copper has a piece of paper wrapped tightly round it.
The bar is heated strongly at the centre for a short time, and the paper goes brown on one side
only.
wood paper copper
heat
Which side goes brown, and what does this show about wood and copper?
brown side
wood
copper
copper
conductor
insulator
copper
insulator
conductor
wood
conductor
insulator
wood
insulator
conductor
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86
hot
water
tank
hot
water
tank
boiler
boiler
heat
heat
hot
water
tank
hot
water
tank
boiler
boiler
heat
heat
7.19 The diagram shows a heater used to heat a tank of cold water.
20 A drop of water from a tap falls onto the surface of some water of constant depth.
water
lagging
view from above
tank
heater
Water waves spread out on the surface of the water.
Which statement is true?
A
What
is theare
main
process by
moves
The
waves
longitudinal
andwhich
travelheat
at the
samethrough
speed the
in allwater?
directions.
The
are longitudinal and travel more quickly in one direction than in others.
A waves
conduction
The
are transverse and travel at the same speed in all directions.
B waves
convection
The
are transverse and travel more quickly in one direction than in others.
C waves
evaporation
D
radiation
0625/1/M/J/02
20 What causes refraction when light travels from air into glass?
A
87
[Turn over
7
158. Two metal boxes containing air are standing in a room. Box X is on top of a heater. Box Y is on a
bench. The boxes are left for a long time.
Y
heater
bench
Which line in the table best describes the average speed of the molecules in the containers?
box X
box Y
fast
zero
fast
slow
slow
fast
zero
fast
9. The top of the mercury thread in a mercury-in-glass thermometer reaches point X at 0 C and
16
point Z at 100 C.
Z
Y
X
W
point W
point X
point Y
point Z
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88
[Turn over
8
17
10. The same quantity of heat energy is applied to four different blocks. The temperature rise
produced is shown on each block.
Which block has the highest thermal capacity?
A
temperature
rise is
3 C
temperature
rise is
6 C
temperature
rise is
18 C
temperature
rise is
9 C
11. A person holds a glass beaker in one hand and fills it quickly with hot water. It takes several
18
seconds before his hand starts to feel the heat.
Why is there this delay?
A
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89
7
14 A student places his thumb firmly on the outlet of a bicycle pump, to stop the air coming out.
trapped air
direction of
motion
handle
What happens to the pressure and to the volume of the trapped air as the pump handle is pushed
in?
pressure
volume
decreases
decreases
decreases
increases
decreases
increases
15 A balloon is inflated in a cold room. When the room becomes much warmer, the balloon becomes
larger.
How does the behaviour of the air molecules in the balloon explain this?
A
D!
&$"'(
)&%
!"#$%
C
"
# A
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90
A
[Turn over
12. A substance is heated at a steady rate. It changes from a solid to a liquid, and then to a gas.
16
The graph shows how its temperature changes with time.
S
temperature
5 R
Q
11 The diagram shows a thick sheet of glass.
Which edge must it stand on
P to cause the greatest pressure?
time
B
Which parts of the graph show a change of state taking place?
A
P and R
P and S
Q and R
Q and S
D
C
13.
17 An engineer wants to fix a steel washer on to a steel rod. The rod is just too big to fit into the hole
12 A
of manometer
the washer. is being used to measure the pressure of the gas inside a tank. A, B, C and D
show the manometer at different times.
steel
steel rod
At which time is washer
the gas pressure inside the tank greatest?
How can the engineer fit the washer onto the rod?
gas
A cool the washer and put it over the rod
B
cool the washer and rod to the same temperature and push them together
13
14. Brownian motion is seen by looking at smoke particles through a microscope.
How do the smoke particles move in Brownian motion?
A
at random
in circles
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15. An experiment is set up to find out which metal is the best conductor of heat. Balls are stuck with
18
wax to rods made from different metals, as shown in diagram X.
The rods are heated at one end. Some of the balls fall off, leaving some as shown in diagram Y.
Which labelled metal is the best conductor of heat?
diagram X
diagram Y
A
before heating
after heating
16.
19 Thermometer X is held above an ice cube and thermometer Y is held the same distance below
the ice cube. After several minutes, the reading on one thermometer changes. The ice cube does
not melt.
thermometer X
ice cube
thermometer Y
reason
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[Turn over
17. Viewed through a microscope, very small particles can be seen moving with Brownian motion.
14
Which line in the table is correct?
type of motion
of particles
particles are
suspended in
vibration
a liquid or a gas
vibration
random
a liquid or a gas
random
15 A measured mass of gas is placed in a cylinder at atmospheric pressure and is then slowly
18.
compressed.
piston
gas
piston pushed in
It drops to zero.
It increases.
16
19. The graph shows the change in temperature of a material as it is heated.
Which part on the graph shows when the material is boiling?
D
temperature
C
B
A
time
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[Turn over
pressure gauge
air
flask
water
heat
What does the pressure gauge show as the air in the flask becomes hotter?
A
a steady pressure
a decrease in pressure
an increase in pressure
18 An iron bar is held with one end in a fire. The other end soon becomes too hot to hold.
hand
fire
iron bar
21. How has the heat travelled along the iron bar?
A
by conduction
by convection
by expansion
by radiation
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23.
15 To mark a temperature scale on a thermometer, fixed points are needed.
Which is a fixed point?
A
24. Four blocks, made of different materials, are each given the same quantity of internal (heat)
16
energy.
Which block has the greatest thermal capacity?
UCLES 2006
temperature
rise = 2 oC
temperature
rise = 4 oC
temperature
rise = 6 oC
temperature
rise = 8 oC
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95
25. A long thin bar of copper is heated evenly along its length.
17
copper bar
heat
What happens to the bar?
A
It becomes lighter.
It becomes longer.
It becomes shorter.
8
19 Two plastic cups are placed one inside the other. Hot water is poured into the inner cup and a lid
is put on top as shown.
lid
small spacer
small air gap
hot water
bench
The bench is heated by convection from the bottom of the outer cup.
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96 wave?
20 Which is the best description of the speed of a water
[Turn over
iGCSE Physics
Past Paper Questions
Paper 3 Compilation
Thermal Physics
97
5
31.
Fig. 3.1 is an attempt to show the molecules in water and the water vapour molecules over
the water surface.
For
Examiners
Use
water vapour
molecules
water molecules
Fig. 3.1
(a) Explain, in terms of the energies of the molecules, why only a few water molecules have
escaped from the water surface.
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................... [2]
(b) State two ways of increasing the number of water molecules escaping from the surface.
1 .......................................................................................................................................
2 .................................................................................................................................. [2]
(c) Energy is required to evaporate water.
Explain, in molecular terms, why this energy is needed.
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................... [2]
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[Turn over
6
42. (a) Fig. 4.1 shows a cylinder containing air at a pressure of 1.0 105 Pa. The length of the
air column in the cylinder is 80 mm.
80 mm
air
piston
cylinder
Fig. 4.1
The piston is pushed in until the pressure in the cylinder rises to 3.8 105 Pa.
Calculate the new length of the air column in the cylinder, assuming that the
temperature of the air has not changed.
air
Fig. 4.2
The volume of the air in the cylinder changes as the temperature of the air changes.
(i)
(ii)
Describe how this apparatus could be used to indicate the temperature of a large
beaker of water.
...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
[5]
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99
For
Examiners
Use
[4]
4
syringe
Calculate the work done on the box.
seal
piston
work done = ..................................
dust particles
(ii)
For
Examiners
Use
The crane takes 2.5 s to raise this box 3.0 m. Calculate the power output of the
Fig. 4.1
crane.
(a) Explain why the dust particles are suspended in the air and do not settle to the bottom.
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
power = ..................................
[4]
..........................................................................................................................................
4
Fig.......................................................................................................................................[3]
4.1 shows a sealed glass syringe that contains air and many very tiny suspended dust
particles.
(b) The air in the syringe is at a pressure of 2.0 105 Pa. The piston is slowly moved into the
syringe, keeping the temperature constant, until
the volume of the air is reduced from
syringe
80 cm3 to 25 cm3. Calculate the final pressure of the air.
seal
piston
pressure = ..................................[3]
dust particles
0625/3/M/J/03
Fig. 4.1
[Turn over
(a) Explain why the dust particles are suspended in the air and do not settle to the bottom.
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................................[3]
(b) The air in the syringe is at a pressure of 2.0 105 Pa. The piston is slowly moved into the
syringe, keeping the temperature constant, until the volume of the air is reduced from
80 cm3 to 25 cm3. Calculate the final pressure of the air.
pressure = ..................................[3]
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100
[Turn over
6
54. Fig. 5.1 shows a thermocouple set up to measure the temperature at a point on a solar
panel.
Sun's rays
surface
of solar
panel
Z
X
cold junction
Y
hot junction
Fig. 5.1
(a) X is a copper wire.
(i)
(ii)
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101
For
Examiners
Use
6
45. (a) Two identical open boxes originally contain the same volume of water.
One is kept at 15 C and the other at 85 C for the same length of time.
Fig. 4.1 shows the final water levels.
15 C
85 C
Fig. 4.1
With reference to the energies of the water molecules, explain why the levels are
different.
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................................[3]
(b) In an experiment to find the specific latent heat of vaporisation of water, it took 34 500 J
of energy to evaporate 15 g of water that was originally at 100 C.
A second experiment showed that 600 J of energy was lost to the atmosphere from the
apparatus during the time it took to evaporate 15 g of water.
Calculate the specific latent heat of vaporisation of water that would be obtained from
this experiment.
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For
Examiners
Use
7
56. (a) Fig. 5.1 shows two identical metal plates. The front surface of one is dull black and the
front surface of the other is shiny silver.
The plates are fitted with heaters that keep the surfaces of the plates at the same
temperature.
dull black
For
Examiners
Use
shiny silver
Fig. 5.1
(i)
State the additional apparatus needed to test which surface is the best emitter of
heat radiation.
...................................................................................................................................
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(b) In the space below, draw a labelled diagram of an everyday situation in which a
convection current occurs.
Mark the path of the current with a line and show its direction with arrows.
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[3]
[Turn over
6
47.
Fig. 4.1 shows apparatus that a student uses to make an estimate of the specific heat
capacity of iron.
electrical heater
thermometer
iron block
Fig. 4.1
(a) The power of the heater is known. State the four readings the student must take to find
the specific heat capacity of iron.
1. ......................................................................................................................................
2. ......................................................................................................................................
3. ......................................................................................................................................
4. ................................................................................................................................. [3]
(b) Write down an equation, in words or in symbols, that could be used to work out the
specific heat capacity of iron from the readings in (a).
[2]
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For
Examiners
Use
7
(c) (i)
Explain why the value obtained with this apparatus is higher than the actual value.
...................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................. [1]
(ii)
State one addition to the apparatus that would help to improve the accuracy of the
value obtained.
...................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................. [1]
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[Turn over
For
Examiners
Use
8
5 8. (a) Fig. 5.1 shows the paths of a few air molecules and a single dust particle. The actual air
molecules are too small to show on the diagram.
paths of
air molecules
dust particle
Fig. 5.1
Explain why the dust particle undergoes small random movements.
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................... [4]
(b) Fig. 5.2 shows the paths of a few molecules leaving the surface of a liquid. The liquid is
below its boiling point.
State which liquid molecules are most likely to leave the surface.
...................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................. [1]
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For
Examiners
Use
5
4 9. (a) State two differences between evaporation of water and boiling of water.
1. ......................................................................................................................................
2. ..................................................................................................................................[2]
(b) The specific latent heat of vaporisation of water is 2260 kJ / kg.
Explain why this energy is needed to boil water and why the temperature of the water
does not change during the boiling.
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................................[3]
(c) A laboratory determination of the specific latent heat of vaporisation of water uses a
120 W heater to keep water boiling at its boiling point. Water is turned into steam at the
rate of 0.050 g / s.
Calculate the value of the specific latent heat of vaporisation obtained from this
experiment. Show your working.
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[Turn over
For
Examiners
Use
6
510. (a) Fig. 5.1 shows a tank used for evaporating salt solution to produce crystals.
evaporating tank
steam in
salt solution
steam out
Fig. 5.1
Suggest two ways of increasing the rate of evaporation of the water from the solution.
Changes may be made to the apparatus, but the rate of steam supply must stay constant.
You may assume the temperature of the salt solution remains constant.
1. ......................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
2. ......................................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................................[2]
(b) A manufacturer of liquid-in-glass thermometers changes the design in order to meet
new requirements.
Describe the changes that could be made to
(i)
(ii)
(c) A toilet flush is operated by the compression of air. The air inside the flush has a
pressure of 1.0 105 Pa and a volume of 150 cm3. When the flush is operated the
volume is reduced to 50 cm3. The temperature of the air remains constant during this
process.
Calculate the new pressure of the air inside the flush.
pressure = .......................[2]
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For
Examiners
Use
Topic 3:
Waves
Transverse Waves
Wavelength
amplitude
amplitude
Wavelength
Frequency=Number of Waves per second (Hz)
Types of Waves
Transverse.
Longitudinal.
3
109
Transverse Waves
Longitudinal Waves
Reflection
Incident
wavefronts
Reflected
wavefronts
Reflecting
Surface
Normal
6
110
Refraction
Boundary
Refracted
Wavefronts
Normal
Diraction
Period of a Wave
The period of a wave is the time taken for the
wave to complete one cycle.
Period =
1
frequency
9
111
10
11
The mirror produces a virtual upright image behind the mirror, the same size as
the object and at the same distance as the object.
Eye
Object
Image
112
12
Refraction in a Rectangular
Block
Air
Glass
Air
r
i
r
i
13
Refractive Index
When light moves through a medium, it is
slowed down.
n=
c
vm
14
Refraction
medium
r
n=
sin i
sin r
15
113
16
Dispersion
White light
screen
prism
17
Refraction in a Semi-Circular
Block
r
i
Refraction
Critical
Angle
Total
Internal
Reflection
18
114
19
Optical Fibres
Optical Fibre
20
Refracting Periscope
21
115
Keyhole Surgery
22
23
Converging Lens
focus
focus
focal
length
focal
length
The distance between the lens and the focus is called the focal
length
116
24
25
Ray Diagrams
When drawing a ray diagram, we construct
at least two rays from point on an object,
and try to use the rules of converging lenses.
26
Problems
27
117
Short Wavelength
Low Frequency
High Frequency
Radio
Waves
Micro
Waves
Infra-red
Waves
Visible
Ultraviolet
Rays
X-Rays
Gamma
Rays
28
Sound
Sound travels at about 340 m/s in air. It travels faster in liquids and faster still in
solids.
Ultrasound is of a higher frequency than our ears can detect. (pre-natal scans, sonar)
29
Sound Waves
30
118
Wave Physics
Quantity and
symbol
Waves
Transverse Waves
Longitudinal Waves
Amplitude
Wave Speed, v
Wavelength,
Frequency, f
Time Period, T
Refection
Refraction
Refractive Index, n
Symbol
equation
units
cm
m
v=f
cm/s
m/s
=v
f
f=v
Hertz, Hz
T = _1_
f
seconds
i=r
n = sin i
sin r
n=c
v
n=R
A
No units,
its a
ration
1
119
Critical Angle, C
Total Internal
Reflection
Diffraction
Dispersion
Speed of Light
Monochromatic
Speed of Sound
n = ___1___
sin C
3.0 x108
m/s
330
m/s
2
120
iGCSE Physics
Past Paper Questions
Paper 1 Compilation
Waves
121
heat
heat
hot
water
tank
hot
water
tank
view from above
boiler
heat
Water waves spread out on the surface of the water.
Which statement is true?
C
A
B
C
D
boiler
heat
The waves are longitudinal and travel at the same speed in all directions.
hot
hot
water
water
The waves are longitudinal and travel more quickly in one direction than in others.
tank
tank
The waves are transverse and travel at the same speed in all directions.
The waves are transverseboiler
and travel more quickly in one direction thanboiler
in others.
heat
25
2. A girl stands in front of a rock face.
12
heat
[Turn over
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20 A drop of water from a tap falls onto the surface of some water of constant depth.
rock face
660 m
The waves are longitudinal and travel at the same speed in all directions.
claps
her
hands once.
The
speed
of quickly
sound in
330 m / s.than in others.
B The
Thegirl
waves
are
longitudinal
and
travel
more
in air
oneis direction
C How
The long
waves
transverse
and the
travel
at the same speed in all directions.
is itare
before
she hears
echo?
D
The waves are transverse and travel more quickly in one direction than in others.
2 x 660
660
330
330
______
___ s
___ s
______
A
s
s
B
C
D
330
330
660
0625/1/M/J/02
2 x 660
26 Which diagram best shows the pattern of field lines around a bar magnet?
122
[Turn over
10
213. A student measures how far a cork moves up and down on a wave in a tank of water.
ruler
cork
direction
of wave
amplitude
frequency
speed
wavelength
4. Alpha-particles, beta-particles, gamma-rays and infra-red radiation may all be emitted from a
22
solid.
Which of these are included in the electromagnetic spectrum?
A
0625/1/M/J/02
123
11
235. The image of a clock face as seen in a plane mirror is shown.
21
6
What is the actual time on the clock?
A
1.25
1.35
10.25
10.35
6. Four sound waves W, X, Y and Z are displayed by an oscilloscope screen. The oscilloscope
24
settings are the same in each case.
W and X
W and Y
X and Y
X and Z
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124
[Turn over
10
227. Which statement is correct about the speed of electromagnetic waves in a vacuum?
A
camera
B
film
film
object
object
lens
lens
image
camera
image
camera
D
film
film
object
object
lens
lens
image
0625/01/M/J/03
125
image
11
248. A sound wave passes through the air, in the direction shown.
500 m
cliffs
island
He shouts for help, but all he can hear in reply is the echo of his shout from some cliffs.
Sound travels at 340 m / s through the air.
What is the time interval between the boy shouting and hearing the echo?
A
500
s
340
2 500
s
340
340
s
500
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126
2 340
s
500
[Turn over
10
10. Water waves change direction when they move from shallow water to deep water.
20
new wave
direction
original
wave
direction
deep
water
shallow
water
diffraction
dispersion
reflection
refraction
11. A vertical stick is dipped up and down in water at P. In two seconds, three wave crests are
21
produced on the surface of the water.
Y
wave
crests
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11
23
13. The diagram shows a ray of light entering a block of glass.
normal
ray of
light
2
air
glass
1
3
4
angle
of refraction
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[T urn o v er
12
lens
Which diagram shows the path of the rays after passing through the lens?
infra-red radiation
microwaves
sound waves
X-rays
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129
9
19 The diagram shows a block of ice placed in a warm room.
13
At which point is the temperature the lo w e st?
16. An engineer standing at P hears the sound of an explosion at X.
26
$
!
P
clamp
ice
table
Z
"
DANGER BLASTING
PV.
ZY.
WX.
D
C
17.
21 R adio waves are received at a house at the bottom of a hill.
27 How can a permanent magnet be demagnetised?
A
hill
pass a small current through the magnet
U C L E S 2005
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130
[T urn o v er
[T urn o v er
10
18. Which diagram correctly shows a ray of light passing through a rectangular glass block?
22
A
24 cm
10 cm
8 cm
ice
table
"
8 cm
10 cm
18 cm
A
B
D
C
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131
24 cm
11
21.
24 A fire alarm is not loud enough. An engine er adjusts it so that it produces a note of the same pitch
which is louder.
What effect does this have on the amplitude and on the frequency of the sound?
amplitude
frequency
larger
larger
larger
same
same
larger
19 Two
cups are placed
D plastic
same
sameone inside the other. Hot water is poured into the inner cup and a lid
is put on top as shown.
lid
22. To estimate the width of a valley, a climber starts a stopwatch
25
as he shouts. H e he ars an echo
from the opposite side of the valley after 1.0 s.
small spacer
small air gap
sound
hot water
climber
bench
valley
A sound
H e at loss
by radiation
The
travels
at 340 m /iss.prevented by the small air gap.
B No he at passes through the sides of either cup.
What is the width of the valley?
C The bench is he ated by convection from the bottom of the outer cup.
B 170 m
C 340 m
D 680 m
A 85 m
D The lid is used to reduce he at loss by convection.
26 Which material is used for the core of an electromagnet?
23. Which is the best description of the spe ed of a water wave?
20
A aluminium
A the distance betwe en one wave crest and the next
B copper
B the distance betwe en the crest of a wave and a trough
C iron
C the distance that a particle of water moves up and down in one second
D ste el
D the distance that a wavefront moves along the surface in one second
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[Turn over
24. Water waves travel more slowly in shallow water than in deep water.
21
Which diagram shows what will happen to plane waves in deep water when they enter shallow
water?
A
deep
B
shallow
deep
C
deep
shallow
deep
shallow
shallow
22
25. A ray of light passes through a window.
Which path does it take?
air
glass
air
A
B
C
D
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[Turn over
10
02:25
02:35
09:25
09:35
24
27. The diagram shows a man standing at X who shouts to a man standing at Y.
X
N
E
S
Y
The mans voice will be heard sooner and more clearly if the wind is blowing towards the
A
north.
south.
east.
west.
25 Sounds are made by vibrating objects. A certain object vibrates but a person nearby cannot hear
any sound.
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134
convection
evaporation
radiation
lagging
30. A woman tunes her radio to a station broadcasting on 200 m.
21
tank
What does the 200 m tell her about the radio wave?
heater
A its amplitude
B
its frequency
C its speed
What is the main process by which heat moves through the water?
D its wavelength
A
conduction
convection
evaporation
radiation
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20 What causes refraction when light travels from air into glass?
A
[Turn over
its amplitude
its frequency
its speed
its wavelength
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135
[Turn over
iGCSE Physics
Past Paper Questions
Paper 3 Compilation
Waves
136
7
5 1. Fig. 5.1 shows an arrangement where a plane mirror is used in a shop to watch a display
counter. The arrangement is drawn to a scale of 1 cm : 1 m.
For
Examiners
Use
plane mirror
wall
display counter
Fig. 5.1
(a) (i)
(ii)
On Fig. 5.1, draw rays to show how much of the display cannot be seen from P.
Indicate this by shading in the part that cannot be seen.
[3]
(b) By construction on Fig. 5.1 and by using the scale, calculate how far the mirror must be
moved so that all of the display counter can be seen from P.
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137
[Turn over
For
Examiners
Use
8
62. Observations of a distant thunderstorm are made.
(a) During a lightning flash, the average wavelength of the light emitted is 5 107 m. This
light travels at 3 108 m/s.
Calculate the average frequency of this light.
distance = ............................................
(ii)
Explain why the speed of light is not taken into account in this calculation.
...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
[3]
(c) A single ray of white light from the lightning is incident on a prism as shown in Fig. 6.1.
prism
screen
ray of
light
Fig. 6.1
Complete the path of the ray to show how a spectrum is formed on the screen. Label the
colours.
[2]
0625/3/M/J/02
138
For
Examiners
Use
63. Fig. 6.1 shows wavefronts of light crossing the edge of a glass block from air into glass.
air
direction in which
wavefronts
are moving
glass
edge of glass
Fig. 6.1
(a) On Fig. 6.1
(i)
draw in an incident ray, a normal and a refracted ray that meet at the same point on
the edge of the glass block,
(ii)
(iii)
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139
[Turn over
For
Examiners
Use
74. In a thunderstorm, both light and sound waves are generated at the same time.
(a) How fast does the light travel towards an observer?
speed = ..................................
[1]
(b) Explain why the sound waves always reach the observer after the light waves.
......................................................................................................................................[1]
(c) The speed of sound waves in air may be determined by experiment using a source that
generates light waves and sound waves at the same time.
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
Explain how you would calculate the speed of sound in air from your readings.
...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
[4]
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140
8
65. Fig. 6.1 shows a ray PQ of blue light incident on the side of a rectangular glass block.
glass
C
Q
air
Fig. 6.1
Fig. 6.1
(a) (i)
(ii)
By drawing on Fig. 6.1, continue the ray PQ through and beyond the block.
Mark the angle of incidence at CD with the letter i and the angle of refraction at CD
with the letter r.
[3]
(b) The speed of light in air is 3.0 x 108 m/s and the speed of light in glass is 2.0 x 108 m/s.
(i)
Write down a formula that gives the refractive index of glass in terms of the
speeds of light in air and glass.
refractive index =
(ii)
(c) The frequency of the blue light in ray PQ is 6.0 x 1014 Hz.
Calculate the wavelength of this light in air.
wavelength = ..[2]
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For
Examiners
Use
9
76. Fig. 7.1 shows the cone of a loudspeaker that is producing sound waves in air.
At any given moment, a series of compressions and rarefactions exist along the line XY.
For
Examiners
Use
cone
wires
air
Fig. 7.1
(a) On Fig. 7.1, use the letter C to mark three compressions and the letter R to mark three
rarefactions along XY.
[1]
(b) Explain what is meant by
(i)
a compression,
...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
(ii)
a rarefaction.
...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
[2]
(c) A sound wave is a longitudinal wave. With reference to the sound wave travelling along
XY in Fig. 7.1, explain what is meant by a longitudinal wave.
..........................................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................................[2]
(d) There is a large vertical wall 50 m in front of the loudspeaker. The wall reflects the
sound waves.
The speed of sound in air is 340 m/s.
Calculate the time taken for the sound waves to travel from X to the wall and to return
to X.
time = [2]
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[Turn over
9
67. Fig. 6.1 shows a ray of light OPQ passing through a semi-circular glass block.
For
Examiners
Use
30
Fig. 6.1
(a) Explain why there is no change in the direction of the ray at P.
..........................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................... [1]
(b) State the changes, if any, that occur to the speed, wavelength and frequency of the light
as it enters the glass block.
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................... [2]
(c) At Q some of the light in ray OPQ is reflected and some is refracted.
On Fig. 6.1, draw in the approximate positions of the reflected ray and the refracted ray.
Label these rays.
[2]
(d) The refractive index for light passing from glass to air is 0.67.
Calculate the angle of refraction of the ray that is refracted at Q into air.
angle = . [3]
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[Turn over
10
78. Fig. 7.1 shows the parts of the electromagnetic spectrum.
ultraviolet
v
i
s
i
b
l
e
infrared
For
Examiners
Use
radio
waves
Fig. 7.1
(a) Name one type of radiation that has
(i)
(ii)
(b) Some -rays emitted from a radioactive source have a speed in air of 3.0 x 108 m/s and
a wavelength of 1.0 x 1012 m.
Calculate the frequency of the -rays.
frequency = . [2]
(c) State the approximate speed of infra-red waves in air.
..................................................................................................................................... [1]
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7
69. Fig. 6.1 shows white light incident at P on a glass prism. Only the refracted red ray PQ is
shown in the prism.
P red ray
Q
white ligh
screen
Fig. 6.1
(a) On Fig. 6.1, draw rays to complete the path of the red ray and the whole path of the
violet ray up to the point where they hit the screen. Label the violet ray.
[3]
(b) The angle of incidence of the white light is increased to 40. The refractive index of the
glass for the red light is 1.52.
Calculate the angle of refraction at P for the red light.
(ii)
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[Turn over
For
Examiners
Use
8
710. Fig. 7.1 shows how the air pressure at one instant varies with distance along the path of a
continuous sound wave.
air pressure
normal
P
air pressure
Y
distance in direction
of travel of the wave
Fig. 7.1
(a) What type of waves are sound waves?
......................................................................................................................................[1]
(b) On Fig. 7.1, mark on the axis PY
(i)
[1]
(ii)
[1]
(c) Describe the motion of a group of air particles situated on the path of the wave shown in
Fig. 7.1.
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................................[2]
(d) The sound wave shown has speed of 340 m / s and a frequency of 200 Hz.
Calculate the distance represented by PX on Fig. 7.1.
distance = ........................[2]
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For
Examiners
Use
Topic 4:
Electricity & Magnetism
Charge
Charging by Friction
3
147
Polythene Rods
Perspex Rods
Metal Case
Insulator
Gold Leaf
It consists of a metal (conductor) cap and rod with a thin piece of gold
foil (conductor) connected.
6
148
repel
attract
attract
Summary of Quantities
Quantity
Symbol
Unit
Units
Symbol
Current
Ampere
Potential
Dierence
(Voltage)
Volt
Resistance
Ohm
9
149
Current/Voltage Graphs
10
Ohmic Resistors
p.d.
11
Filament Lamp
p.d.
12
150
The Diode
p.d.
0.7 V
13
Ohms Law
14
V1
V2
Vt = V1 + V2 + ...
15
151
It
I2
I1
I t = I1 = I 2 = ...
I3
16
Rt = R1 + R2 + ...
Rt
R1
R2
17
V1
Vt = V1 = V2 = ...
V2
18
152
It
I t = I1 + I 2 + ...
I1
I2
19
Resistance in Parallel
In a parallel combination, the combined resistance
is found using the following equation:
Rt
1
1
1
=
+
+ ...
Rt R1 R2
R1
R2
20
Resistance
Electric Current is opposed by components in a
circuit. This opposition is called Resistance.
V (V )
I(A)
21
153
Current
I(A) =
Q(C)
t(s)
22
Potential Dierence
V (V ) =
Energy(J )
Q(C)
23
V1=IR1
V2=IR2
24
154
Simpler Design
Vt
V1
25
Task
Using the 12V setting on the power pack, a
variable resistor, a voltmeter a bulb and leads,
construct a circuit that supplies the bulb with
exactly 4.56 V.
26
V=
I=
Q = It
Energy = VQ
WD
Q
Q
t
Energy = VIt
27
155
Since
Energy
t
Energy = VIt
and
Power =
so
VIt
t
Power = VI
28
P = VI
P=I R
2
V2
P=
R
29
Conductors
30
156
Semiconductors
31
The Transistor
collector
base
emitter
Transistor
32
+6V
0V
As the temperature drops, the resistance of the
thermistor ................... The voltage across b-e will....................
and the transistor is switched-on and the bulb lights.
Possible Use:
33
157
Transistor
+6V
0V
As the temperature rises, the resistance of the
thermistor ................... The voltage across b-e will....................
and the transistor is switched-on and the bulb lights.
Possible Use:
34
Transistor
+6V
0V
As the light level drops, the resistance of the LDR ...................
The voltage across b-e will.................... and the transistor is
switched-on and the bulb lights.
Possible Use:
35
Transistor
+6V
0V
As the light level rises, the resistance of the LDR ...................
The voltage across b-e will.................... and the transistor is
switched-on and the bulb lights.
Possible Use:
36
158
The Diode
37
The Capacitor
38
Rectification Circuit
A.C.
Input
D.C.
Output
39
159
A.C Voltage
Half-Wave
Rectified
Half-Wave
Rectified and
Smoothed
40
41
Electronic Systems
42
160
NOT Gate
A
0
1
B
1
0
43
OR Gate
44
AND Gate
A
C
B
45
161
Tasks
Build an alarm clock for a deaf person that will light up at dawn.
Build a eco-friendly device that would tell you if your pool was too
cold for swimming. The device should light up when you press a
button.
Build a fire alarm that activates a buzzer and a warning light when it
gets too hot. The alarm should have a test button for the battery.
46
H
Heating
Element
Cathode
Vacuum
47
48
162
49
Magnets
There are two types of magnetic pole, North and
South.
50
Magnetising and
Demagnetising
Stroking
Heating
Hammering
AC coil
51
163
Permanent Magnets vs
Electromagnets
52
53
54
164
55
56
57
165
Field
Around a Coil
The magnetic field around a
solenoid is similar to that of
a bar magnet.
58
The Relay
iron
small
current
large
current
starter
motor
spring
59
magnetic reed
60
166
61
62
63
167
The DC Motor
If we pass a current through a loop of wire, and
commutator
64
Design Improvements
65
Induction
Motor Effect
Kinetic
Energy
Kinetic
Energy
Induction
Electrical
Energy
A current is induced
when the magnet is
moved through the
coil, but no current is
induced when the
magnet is stationary.
66
168
Induced Current
67
Generating AC
68
Uses of Induction
Microphone
Bicycle Dynamo
69
169
Transformer Overview
70
Primary
Circuit (AC)
NP
NS
Secondary
Circuit (AC)
VS
VP
71
Transformer Equation
If the number of coils increase, we have a step-up
transformer and the voltage increases in the same
ratio.
If the number of coils decrease, we have a stepdown transformer and the voltage decreases in the
same ratio.
72
170
Energy Considerations
Since Power in a circuit is given by P=VI, we can
calculate the electrical power in the primary and
secondary circuits:
PP = VP I P
PS = VS I S
VP I P = VS I S
73
171
Symbol
equation
units
Coulombs,
C, As
V
mV
A
mA
Ohms
Ohms
Ohms
Ohms
Ohms
Joules, J
Watts, W
1
172
Electromagnetic
Induction
Transformer, (for
100% efficiency)
Thermionic
Emission
current
Or Electrical power = potential difference2
resistance
Or Electrical power = current2 x resistance
A changing magnetic field can induce a
e.m.f. in a closed circuit. The direction of the
induced e.m.f. opposes the change causing it.
Ratio of the potential difference in the
primary coil to the secondary coil is equal to
the ratio of the number of turns on the
primary to the secondary, and equal to the
ratio of the current in the secondary to the
current in the primary
A current carrying wire in a magnetic field
experiences a force. The direction of that
force can be worked out using Flemings
Left Hand Rule.
A heated piece of metal will release
electrons.
P = V2
R
P = I2R
np/ns = Vp/Vs
=Is/Ip
No units,
its a ratio
2
173
iGCSE Physics
Past Paper Questions
Paper 1 Compilation
Electricity & Magnetism
174
15
12
1. When electricity is transmitted over long distances, energy is wasted. How can the wasted
34
25 energy
A girl stands
of as
a rock
face.
be keptinasfront
small
possible?
A
rock face
Keep the power supplied to the transmission
lines as large as possible.
30 turns
12 V
a.c.
a.c. voltmeter
The girl claps her hands once. The speed of sound in air is 330 m / s.
What is the voltmeter reading?
How long is it before she hears the echo?
A 1.2 V
B 12 V
C 120 V
D 1200 V
A
2 x 660
______
s
330
660
___ s
330
330
___ s
660
330
______
s
2 x 660
26
3. Which diagram best shows the pattern of field lines around a bar magnet?
A
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[Turn over
13
274. Which materials are suitable to make a permanent magnet and the core of an electromagnet?
permanent magnet
core of an electromagnet
iron
iron
iron
steel
steel
iron
steel
steel
6. Which of the following pieces of copper wire has the greatest electrical resistance?
29
length / m
diameter / mm
5.0
0.05
5.0
0.10
50
0.05
50
0.10
20
10
What is their combined resistance?
A
less than 10
10
20
more than 20
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[Turn over
14
318. The diagram shows an incomplete circuit.
space
A
Which component should be connected in the space to make the lamp light?
A
329. Why are the electric lamps in a house lighting circuit normally connected in parallel?
A
The lamps are always switched on and off at the same time.
10. In the circuit shown, one of the fuses blows and all the lamps go out.
33
Which fuse blows?
+
C
D
0625/1/M/J/02
177
16
11. The diagram shows part of a circuit used to switch street lamps on and off automatically.
36
+
LDR
What is the effect on the light-dependent resistor (LDR) when it gets dark?
resistance of LDR
decreases
decreases
decreases
increases
increases
decreases
increases
increases
12. An alternating potential difference (p.d.) is applied to the Y-plates of a cathode-ray oscilloscope.
37
The time-base is turned off.
Which of the following patterns would appear on the screen?
A
38 What is a beta-particle?
A
a helium nucleus
a high-energy electron
four protons
two neutrons
0625/1/M/J/02
178
12
13. A student wishes to use a magnetising coil to make a permanent magnet from a piece of metal.
26
metal
aluminium
copper
iron
steel
14. A metal rod XY is placed near a magnet. End X is attracted when it is placed near to the north pole
27
of the magnet, and also when it is placed near to the south pole.
X
Y
N
N
attraction
attraction
How does end Y behave when it is placed, in turn, near to the two poles of the magnet?
Y near north pole Y near south pole
A
attraction
attraction
attraction
repulsion
repulsion
attraction
repulsion
repulsion
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13
15. When the potential difference (p.d.) across a piece of resistance wire is changed, the current
28
through the wire also changes.
The temperature of the wire is kept the same.
Which graph shows how the p.d. and current are related?
A
current
0
0
current
current
p.d.
p.d.
current
p.d.
p.d.
16. Two faulty ammeters and two perfect ammeters are connected in series in the circuit shown.
29
A1
A2
A3
A4
A1 and A2
A1 and A4
A2 and A3
A3 and A4
17. Which electrical component would not normally be found in a battery-operated torch (flashlight)?
30
A
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[Turn over
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2
3
1 and 2
1, 2 and 3
1 and 3
2 and 3
32
19. A student makes four circuits.
In which circuit are both lamps protected by the fuse?
A
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181
15
240 V
240 V
240 V
D
240 V
magnet
solenoid
V
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[Turn over
16
21. The diagram shows a transformer with an alternating voltage of 100 V applied to the primary coil.
35
secondary coil
primary coil
100 V
(40 turns)
(80 turns)
50 V
100 V
200 V
8000 V
36
22. The diagram below shows the screen of a cathode-ray oscilloscope tube.
spot of light
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183
17
A
26 An engineer standing at P hears the sound of an explosion at X.
Z
thermometer
Y
X
DANGER BLASTING
water
After
sheof hears
two isbangs.
One the
bang
is heard
a fraction
of increases.
a second after the
Whenthe
theexplosion,
temperature
the water
increased,
reading
on the
ammeter
other.
What is component X?
The second bang is an echo from
AA
a capacitor
XY.
BB
CC
a light-dependent resistor
PV.
a reed relay
ZY.
DD
a thermistor
WX.
-particles
cool
the magnet for a long time
BB
-particles
hit
the magnet repeatedly with a hammer
CC
DD
X-rays
pass
a small current through the magnet
39 An
half-life of a radioactive
substance
is 5 hours.
A sample
is tested and metals.
found to contain 0.48 g
28
is used to separate
magnetic
metals
from non-magnetic
25. Theelectromagnet
of the substance.
Why is steel unsuitable as the core of the electromagnet?
How much of the substance was present in the sample 20 hours before the sample was tested?
A It is a good conductor of electricity.
A 0.03 g
B It forms a permanent magnet.
B 0.12 g
C It has a high density.
C 1.92 g
D It has a high thermal capacity.
D 7.68 g
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[Turn over
14
26. Which circuit shows how a voltmeter is connected to measure the potential difference across the
29
cell?
A
11
24 A fire alarm is not loud enough. An engineer adjusts it so that it producesV a note of the same pitc
which is louder.
What effect does this have on the amplitude and on the frequency of the sound?
A
B
C
D
A
larger
larger
The rod and the balloon carry opposite charges.
B
larger
same
The rod and the balloon carry like charges.
C
same
larger
The rod is charged but the balloon is not.
D
same
same
The balloon is charged but the rod is not.
25 To estimate the width of a valley, a climber starts a stopwatch as he shouts. He hears an ech
31 Anfrom
electrical
component
is of
to be
the 1.0
circuit
28.
s. at Z, to allow the brightness of the lamp to
the opposite
side
theplaced
valley in
after
be varied from bright to dim.
sound
climber
valley
340 m
26
29. Which material is used for the core of an electromagnet?
A
aluminium
copper
iron
steel
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680 m
15
30. The circuit shown contains four lamps and thre e switches.
32
switch 1
lamp 1
switch 2
lamp 2
lamp 3
switch 3
lamp 4
switch 1 only
31. The diagram shows a torch containing two 2 V cells, a switch and a lamp.
33
plastic
case
brass
connecting
strip
switch
lamp
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[Turn over
16
current
current
D
current
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0625/01/M/J/04
187
17
34. A student carries out an experiment to se e the effect of a magnetic field on a wire carrying a
36
current.
The wire moves upwards as shown.
wire moves
upwards
S
direction
of current
35. A be am of cathode rays passes through an electric field betwe en two parallel plates.
37
+ + + + + +
cathode rays
_ _ _ _ _ _
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[Turn over
12
36. A brass rod is positioned in an east-west direction and a plotting compass is placed at each end.
27
brass rod
N
plotting
compass
Which diagram shows the positions of the needles of the plotting compasses?
A
28
37. How many of the following materials conduct electricity?
aluminium
silver
iron
plastic
A
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13
38. In which circuit does the voltmeter read the potential difference across the lamp?
29
A
30
39. In the circuit below, X and Y are identical 6 V lamps.
6V
switch
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A X
A
A
Y
Z
2A
3A
5A
3A
2A
5A
3A
3A
3A
5A
2A
3A
41. A lamp is to be connected in a circuit so that the p.d. across it can be varied from 0 to 6 V.
32
Which circuit would be most suitable?
6V
6V
6V
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15
33
42. A student makes the circuit shown.
5 A fuse
34
43. Which graph shows the output voltage from a simple a.c. generator?
voltage
A
time
voltage
B
time
voltage
C
time
voltage
D
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[Turn over
16
44. A transformer has 50 turns on its primary coil and 100 turns on its secondary coil. An a.c. voltage
35
of 25.0 V is connected across the primary coil.
25.0 V
primary coil
50 turns
secondary coil
100 turns
12.5 V
50.0 V
175 V
200 V
45. Two circuits are set up as shown. The iron rods are placed close together, and are fre e to move.
36
S
iron rod
iron rod
It decre ases.
It incre ases.
37
46. The diagram shows a simple cathode-ray tube.
Which part emits the electrons?
D
A
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11
47. A student investigates which end of a magnetic compass needle is attracted to a bar magnet.
26
What does the investigation show?
A
Both ends of the compass needle are attracted by the north pole of the magnet.
Both ends of the compass needle are attracted by the south pole of the magnet.
One end of the compass needle is attracted by the north pole and the other end by the south
pole.
27 From which materials are the coil and the core of an electromagnet made?
48.
coil
core
copper
copper
copper
iron
iron
copper
iron
iron
28
49. What are the symbols used for the units of current and resistance?
unit of current
unit of resistance
29 When a plastic comb is placed next to a small piece of aluminium foil hanging from a nylon
50.
thread, the foil is repelled by the comb.
Why is this?
A
The comb and the foil have charge of the same sign.
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[Turn over
12
31
52. F our lamps and four switches are connected to a power supply as shown in the circuit diagram.
When all the switches are closed, all the lamps are lit.
When one of the switches is then opened, only one lamp goes out.
Which switch is opened?
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13
34
55. An electric power tool is being used outdoors in a shower of rain.
What is the greatest hazard to the user?
A
35
56. A current-carrying coil in a magnetic field experiences a turning effect.
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[Turn over
14
coil Y
24 V
6V
What are suitable numbers of turns for coil X and for coil Y?
number of turns
on coil X
number of turns
on coil Y
240
60
240
240
240
960
960
60
anode temperature
negative
cool
negative
hot
positive
cool
positive
hot
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iGCSE Physics
Past Paper Questions
Paper 3 Compilation
Electricity & Magnetism
198
9
71. (a) Two non-conducting spheres, made of different materials, are initially uncharged. They
are rubbed together. This causes one of the spheres to become positively charged and
one negatively charged.
For
Examiners
Use
+ +
+ + +
+ +
Fig. 7.1
On Fig. 7.1, draw the electric field between the two spheres. Indicate by arrows the
direction of the electric field lines.
[2]
(c) A conducting wire attached to a negatively charged metal object is connected to earth.
This allows 2.0 1010 electrons, each carrying a charge of 1.6 1019 C, to flow to
earth in 1.0 103 s.
Calculate
(i)
charge .....................................
(ii)
current .....................................
[3]
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199
[Turn over
10
82. Fig. 8.1 shows a transformer and a rectifier used in a battery charging circuit for a 12 V
battery.
T1
240 V a.c.
T2
primary
secondary
Fig. 8.1
time
Fig. 8.2
On the same axes, sketch the graph of the potential difference across the terminals T1
and T2 before the battery is connected.
[2]
(c) Explain how the circuit converts an a.c. supply into a d.c. output.
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................... [2]
(d) On Fig. 8.1, draw in a battery connected so that it may be charged.
0625/3/M/J/02
200
[1]
For
Examiners
Use
11
(e) When fully charged, the 12V battery can supply a current of 2.0 A for 30 hours (1.08
105 s).
For
Examiners
Use
Calculate
(i)
power = ......................................
(ii)
the total energy that the battery will supply during the 30 hours.
energy = ......................................
[4]
Fig. 9.1 shows three resistors connected across a low voltage d.c. supply, and a c.r.o.
A
d.c.
supply
Y input
Fig. 9.1
3. (a) Explain how you would use a 1 V d.c. supply to calibrate the c.r.o.
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................... [2]
(b) On Fig. 9.1, draw in the connections between the c.r.o. and the circuit so that the
potential difference between points C and D may be measured.
[2]
(c) The potential differences between A and F, B and C, C and D, and D and E are
measured.
State the relationship between them.
..........................................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................................[2]
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201
[Turn over
9
84. Fig. 8.1 shows a battery with a resistor connected across its terminals. The e.m.f. of the
battery is 6.0 V.
For
Examiners
Use
6.0 V
Fig. 8.1
The battery causes 90 C of charge to flow through the circuit in 45 s.
(a) Calculate
(i)
current = ..................................
(ii)
resistance = ..................................
(iii)
energy = ..................................
[6]
(b) Explain what is meant by the term e.m.f. of the battery.
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................................[2]
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[Turn over
10
95. A transformer has an output of 24 V when supplying a current of 2.0 A. The current in the
primary coil is 0.40 A and the transformer is 100% efficient.
(a) Calculate
(i)
power = ..................................
(ii) the voltage applied across the primary coil.
voltage = ..................................
[4]
(b) Explain
(i)
(ii)
how the transformer changes an input voltage into a different output voltage.
...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
[4]
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203
For
Examiners
Use
11
106. Fig. 10.1 and Fig. 10.2 show two views of a vertical wire carrying a current up through a
horizontal card. Points P and Q are marked on the card.
For
Examiners
Use
vertical
wire
Fig. 10.2
draw a complete magnetic field line (line of force) through P and indicate its
direction with an arrow,
(ii)
(ii)
(c) Fig. 10.3 shows the view from above of another vertical wire carrying a current up
through a horizontal card. A cm grid is marked on the card. Point W is 1 cm vertically
above the top surface of the card.
T
R
vertical
wire carrying
current
S
W
Fig. 10.3
State the magnetic field strength at S, T and W in terms of the magnetic field strength
at R. Use one of the alternatives, weaker, same strength or stronger for each answer.
at S ........................................................................
at T ........................................................................
at W........................................................................
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204
[3]
[Turn over
10
87. Fig. 8.1 shows a 240 V a.c. mains circuit to which a number of appliances are connected and
switched on.
240 V a.c.
refrigerator
fan
1.2 kW
200 W
60 W
60 W
Fig. 8.1
(a) Calculate the power supplied to the circuit.
power = ..[1]
(b) The appliances are connected in parallel.
(i)
(ii) State two advantages of connecting the appliances in parallel rather than in series.
advantage 1 ...............................................................................................................
advantage 2 ...............................................................................................................
[3]
(c) Calculate
(i)
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205
For
Examiners
Use
11
9 8. Electromagnetic induction can be demonstrated using a solenoid, a magnet, a sensitive
ammeter and connecting wire.
For
Examiners
Use
(a) In the space below, draw a labelled diagram of the apparatus set up to demonstrate
electromagnetic induction.
[2]
(b) State one way of using the apparatus to produce an induced current.
..........................................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................................[1]
(c) Explain why your method produces an induced current.
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................................[2]
(d) Without changing the apparatus, state what must be done to produce
(i)
(ii)
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[Turn over
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109. (a) Fig. 10.1 shows the faces of two ammeters. One has an analogue display and the other
a digital display.
3
A
5
Fig. 10.1
State what is meant by the terms analogue and digital.
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................................[2]
(b) (i)
(ii)
(iii)
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[2]
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207
For
Examiners
Use
11
810. A student has a power supply, a resistor, a voltmeter, an ammeter and a variable resistor.
(a) The student obtains five sets of readings from which he determines an average value
for the resistance of the resistor.
In the space below, draw a labelled diagram of a circuit that he could use.
[3]
(b) Describe how the circuit should be used to obtain the five sets of readings.
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................... [2]
(c) Fig. 8.1 shows another circuit.
6.0 V
resistor
3.0
resistor of
unknown value
Fig. 8.1
When the circuit is switched on, the ammeter reads 0.50 A.
(i)
(ii)
charge = . [1]
(iii)
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[Turn over
For
Examiners
Use
12
911. (a) Fig. 9.1 shows an a.c. supply connected to a resistor and a diode.
a.c. supply
resistor
For
Examiners
Use
output
Fig. 9.1
(i)
(ii) On Fig. 9.2, sketch graphs to show the variation of the a.c. supply voltage and the
output voltage with time.
a.c. supply
voltage
0
output
voltage
time
time
Fig. 9.2
[2]
(b) (i)
[1]
(ii)
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14
12. Fig. 11.1 shows a flexible wire hanging between two magnetic poles. The flexible wire is
11
connected to a 12 V d.c. supply that is switched off.
wire fixed here
+
12 V d.c.
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For
Examiners
Use
15
(d) Fig. 11.2 shows the flexible wire made into a rigid rectangular coil and mounted on an
axle.
magnetic pole
axle
N
coil
magnetic pole
axle
Fig. 11.2
(i)
Add to the diagram an arrangement that will allow current to be fed into the coil
whilst allowing the coil to turn continuously. Label the parts you have added.
[1]
(ii)
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For
Examiners
Use
9
813. Fig. 8.1 shows an electrical circuit.
For
Examiners
Use
12.0 V d.c.
A
one metre resistance wire
4.0
sliding
contact
Fig. 8.1
(ii)
(ii)
(d) The 1 m wire between A and B, as shown in Fig. 8.1, has a resistance of 2.0 .
Calculate the resistance between A and B when
(i)
(ii)
the 1 m length is replaced by a 1 m length of a wire of the same material but of only
half the cross-sectional area.
resistance = ........................[1]
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914. A transformer is needed to step down a 240 V a.c. supply to a 12 V a.c. output.
(a) In the space below, draw a labelled diagram of a suitable transformer.
[3]
(b) Explain
(i)
(ii)
(ii)
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For
Examiners
Use
11
10
15. (a) Fig. 10.1 shows a positively charged plastic rod, a metal plate resting on an insulator,
and a lead connected to earth.
positively charged
plastic rod
metal plate
insulator
lead connected
to earth
Fig. 10.1
charge = ............................
(ii)
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[Turn over
For
Examiners
Use
Topic 5:
Atomic Physics
Background Radiation
Whenever radioactivity from a sample is measured,
background radioactivity interferes with the
readings.
-Particle Emission
-particle
3
215
-Particle Emission
-particle
-Radiation
-ray emitted.
-ray
Properties of Radioactivity
Nature
Penetration
Ionisation
Dangerous
Speed
6
216
Detecting Radioactivity
Summary of Radioactivity
structure
charge
mass
penetration
range
detection
Sub-Atomic Particles
There are three subatomic particles.
Particle
Charge
Mass
Proton
+1
1 AMU
Neutron
Neutral
1 AMU
Electron
-1
Negligible
9
217
Rutherford Scattering
10
Gold
Nucleus
11
Nuclear Notation
A
12
218
Isotopes
13
Half-Life
14
Number of Particles
Decay Curve
1000000
750000
500000
250000
0
0
25
50
75
100
Time
A similar shaped curve is produced for the activity of the sample
against time with the same half-life.
15
219
Nuclear Reactions
16
Nuclear Equations
17
Examples of Nuclear
Equations
14
7
N + 24 178 O + 11 H
U
238
92
1
0
131
53
Th + 24
234
90
n 11 p + 10
0
I 131
54 Xe + 1
18
220
Beta Particle,
Gamma Ray,
Background
Radiation
Radioactive Decay
Alpha Decay
Beta Decay
Gamma Decay
Half Life
Isotopes
221
Symbol
equation
1
0
charge
1p
+1
-1e
-1
0n
+2
-1
-1
iGCSE Physics
Past Paper Questions
Paper 1 Compilation
Atomic & Nuclear Physics
222
17
absorber
What is the effect on the light-dependent resistor (LDR) when it gets dark?
resistance of LDR source
p.d. across LDR
radiation detector
A
decreases
decreases
When
a piece
of paper is usedincreases
as the absorber, the count rate drops to the background count
B
decreases
rate.
C
increases
decreases
2. What radiation is the source emitting?
D
increases
increases
A
alpha only
B beta only
37 An alternating potential difference (p.d.) is applied to the Y-plates of a cathode-ray oscilloscope.
CThegamma
onlyis turned off.
time-base
D alpha, beta and gamma
Which of the following patterns would appear on the screen?
40
3.
22
10 Ne
10
12
22
32
4. What is a beta-particle?
38
A
a helium nucleus
a high-energy electron
four protons
two neutrons
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17
absorber
source
radiation detector
When a piece of paper is used as the absorber, the count rate drops to the background count
rate.
7.
40
alpha only
beta only
gamma only
22
10 Ne
10
12
22
32
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224
When the temperature of the water is increased, the reading on the ammeter increases.
18
What is component X?
8. An atom of lithium contains three protons and three electrons.
40
A a capacitor
The nucleon number (mass number) of the atom is 7.
B a light-dependent resistor
How
C many
a reedneutrons
relay are there in the atom?
AD
3a thermistor
B 4
10
-particles
-particles
-rays
X-rays
10. The half-life of a radioactive substance is 5 hours. A sample is tested and found to contain 0.48 g
39
of the substance.
How much of the substance was present in the sample 20 hours before the sample was tested?
A
0.03 g
0.12 g
1.92 g
7.68 g
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[Turn over
18
penetrates 1 cm
of aluminium?
negative
yes
negative
no
positive
yes
positive
no
39
12. A small amount of a radioactive isotope contains 72 billion unstable nuclei. The half-life of the
isotope is 4 hours.
How many unstable nuclei would remain after 12 hours?
A
6 billion
9 billion
18 billion
24 billion
19
U C L E S 2004
20
39
19 K
?
39
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226
58
17
14. Which type of radiation has the gre atest ionising effect?
38
A
-particles
-particles
-rays
all have the same ionising effect
40 mg
100 mg
200 mg
16. In the symbol below, A is the nucleon number and Z is the proton number.
40
A
Z
an electron
a neutron
a nuclide
an X-ray
16
electrons
neutrons
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15
18. The diagram shows five atoms in a radioactive substance. The atoms each give out an -particle.
38
1st particle
atom
1
atom
2
atom
5
atom
4
atom
3
2nd particle
19. Atom 1 is the first to give out a particle. Atom 3 is the second to give out a particle.
Which atom will give out the next particle?
A
atom 2
atom 4
atom 5
impossible to tell
39
20. A Geiger counter detects radiation from radioactive sources.
A radioactive source is inside a thick aluminium container as shown.
radioactive source
2m
Geiger counter
-particles
-particles
-rays
radio waves
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[Turn over
iGCSE Physics
Past Paper Questions
Paper 3 Compilation
Atomic & Nuclear Physics
229
12
10 Some liquid from an atomic power station is known to be radioactive. A sample of this liquid
is tested in a laboratory.
(a) In the space below, draw a labelled diagram of the test apparatus used to verify that
-particles are emitted from the liquid.
[2]
(b) Explain how the apparatus may be used to estimate the quantity of -radiation being
emitted from the sample.
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................... [2]
(c) State any two safety precautions that the technician might take whilst making the test.
precaution 1 .....................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
precaution 2 .....................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................... [2]
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For
Examiners
Use
12
For
Examiners
Use
In the space below, draw a labelled diagram of the apparatus you would use to
prove that no -particles or -radiation are emitted from the isotope.
(ii)
(iii)
Explain how your results would show that only -particles are emitted.
...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
[6]
(b) Fig. 11.1 shows a stream of -particles about to enter the space between the poles of a
very strong magnet.
N
-particles
Fig. 11.1
Describe the path of the -particles in the space between the magnetic poles.
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................................[3]
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231
For
Examiners
Use
13
11 (a) -particles can be scattered by thin gold foils.
Fig. 11.1 shows part of the paths of three -particles.
Complete the paths of the three -particles.
[3]
-particle 1
-particle 2
-particle 3
gold nuclei
Fig. 11.1
(b) What does the scattering of -particles show about atomic structure?
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................................[2]
(c) State the nucleon number (mass number) of an -particle.
nucleon number = [1]
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13
10 (a) Fig. 10.1 is the decay curve for a radioactive isotope that emits only -particles.
For
Examiners
Use
400
count rate
counts / min
300
200
100
0
10
20
30
time / min
40
Fig. 10.1
Use the graph to find the value of the half-life of the isotope.
Indicate, on the graph, how you arrived at your value.
half-life . [2]
(b) A student determines the percentage of -particles absorbed by a thick aluminium
sheet. He uses a source that is emitting only -particles and that has a long half-life.
(i)
In the space below, draw a labelled diagram of the apparatus required, set up to
make the determination.
[2]
(ii)
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[Turn over
12
11 Fig. 11.1 shows a beam of radiation that contains !-particles, "-particles and #-rays. The
beam enters a very strong magnetic field shown in symbol form by N and S poles.
For
Examiners
Use
N
beam of
radiation
S
Fig. 11.1
Complete the table below.
radiation
direction of deflection,
if any
charge carried by
radiation, if any
!-particles
"-particles
#-rays
[6]
Permission to reproduce items where third-party owned material protected by copyright is included has been sought and cleared where possible. Every reasonable
effort has been made by the publisher (UCLES) to trace copyright holders, but if any items requiring clearance have unwittingly been included, the publisher will
be pleased to make amends at the earliest possible opportunity.
University of Cambridge International Examinations is part of the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES), which is itself a department
of the University of Cambridge.
UCLES 2006
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CURRICULUM CONTENT
Students can follow either the Core curriculum only or they may follow the Extended curriculum, which
includes both the Core and the Supplement. Students aiming for grades A* to C must follow the
Extended curriculum. Students are expected to have adequate mathematical skills to cope with the
curriculum.
Reference should also be made to the summary list of symbols, units and definitions of quantities.
Throughout the course, attention should be paid to showing the relevance of concepts to the students'
everyday life and to the natural and man-made world. In order to encourage such an approach and to
allow flexibility in teaching programmes to meet the more generalised Aims, the specified content of the
syllabus has been limited. In this wider sense, as well as in the literal sense, the following material
should be regarded as an examination syllabus rather than a teaching syllabus.
TOPIC
CORE
SUPPLEMENT
1. General Physics
1.1 Length and time
and
1.4 Density
5235
TOPIC
CORE
SUPPLEMENT
1.5 Forces
(a) Effects of forces
experiment to
the centre of
effect of the
mass on the
6236
TOPIC
CORE
SUPPLEMENT
(c) Work
(d) Power
1.7 Pressure
properties
(c) Evaporation
7237
of
TOPIC
2.2
CORE
SUPPLEMENT
-describe
qualitatively
the
thermal
expansion of solids, liquids and gases
-identify and explain some of the everyday
applications and consequences of thermal
expansion
-describe qualitatively the effect of a
change of temperature on the volume of a
gas at constant pressure
(b) Measurement of
temperature
Thermal properties
Transfer of thermal
energy
(a) Conduction
(b) Convection
(c) Radiation
(d) Consequences of
energy transfer
3. Properties of waves,
including light and
sound
3.1
8238
TOPIC
3.2
SUPPLEMENT
-interpret
reflection,
refraction
diffraction using wave theory
and
Light
(a) Reflection of light
3.3
CORE
(e) Electromagnetic
spectrum
Sound
9239
-perform
simple
constructions,
measurements and calculations
TOPIC
CORE
SUPPLEMENT
Electrical quantities
(a) Electric charge
(b) Current
(e) Resistance
-recall
and
use
quantitatively
the
proportionality between resistance and the
length and the inverse proportionality
between resistance and cross-sectional
area of a wire
-recall and use the equations P = I V and
E=IVt
Electric circuits
(a)
Circuit diagrams
(b)
240
10
TOPIC
CORE
SUPPLEMENT
4.4
Dangers of electricity
4.5
Electromagnetic effects
(a) Electromagnetic
induction
(c) Transformer
241
11
TOPIC
CORE
SUPPLEMENT
(d) The magnetic effect - describe the pattern of the magnetic field
of a current
due to currents in straight wires and in
solenoids
5. Atomic Physics
5.1
Radioactivity
(a) Detection of
radioactivity
(d) Half-life
242
12
TOPIC
5.2
CORE
SUPPLEMENT
(b) Nucleus
notation Z X
(c) Isotopes
243
13