O-LevelPhysicsKinematics5054/22 · Oct/Nov 2018 · Q16 Marks

Fig. 1.1 shows a satellite travelling at a constant speed in a circular orbit around the Earth. [Figure 1.1]

(a)State how speed differs from velocity.[1]
(b)(i)As it orbits the Earth, the satellite is experiencing an acceleration. Explain, in terms of its velocity, why the satellite is accelerating.[2]
(b)(ii)On Fig. 1.1, draw an arrow, starting on the satellite, to show the direction of the satellite's acceleration.[1]
(c)As the satellite orbits the Earth, it experiences a force due to gravitational attraction. State and explain whether this force does work on the satellite and state whether the energy of the satellite is affected.[2]

This question uses a diagram from the original paper, which isn't shown here. Open the full paper from the past papers archive to see it.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (Oct/Nov 2018). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

[1] it/speed does not have a direction / is a scalar quantity
[1] direction (of velocity) changes (as it moves around the Earth)
[1] its velocity changes with time (this is an acceleration)
[1] arrow from satellite towards (centre of) Earth
[1] no work done and force perpendicular to motion / no movement in direction of force
[1] (kinetic and gravitational potential) energy remains constant / no effect

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