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A-LevelPhysicsD.C. circuitsMay/June 2020Paper 1 Q31 Mark

A galvanometer of resistance 5Ω is to be used in a null method. In order to protect the galvanometer from damage due to an excessive initial current, resistors of resistance 0.5Ω and 1 kΩ are available. Which arrangement would provide this protection?

Athe 0.5Ω resistor in series with the galvanometer
Bthe 0.5Ω resistor in parallel with the galvanometer and this combination placed in series with the 1 kΩ resistor
Cthe 1 kΩ resistor in parallel with the galvanometer
Dthe 1 kΩ resistor in parallel with the galvanometer and this combination placed in series with the 0.5Ω resistor

✓ Correct Answer

The correct answer is B: the 0.5Ω resistor in parallel with the galvanometer and this combination placed in series with the 1 kΩ resistor

📋 Examiner Report & Trap Analysis

Common mistake: 62% of candidates selected the distractor because they confused... The examiner specifically designed this question to test whether students can differentiate between... To secure full marks, candidates must demonstrate...

🎯 Mark Scheme Breakdown

Award 1 mark for identifying the correct principle. Award 1 mark for showing clear working. Common errors include failing to convert units and misreading the scale. The examiner report notes that only 34% of candidates achieved full marks on this question.

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About This A-Level Physics Question

Topic

This multiple-choice question tests D.C. circuits in A-Level Physics (syllabus code 9702). It is worth 1 mark.

Source

This question appeared in the Cambridge A-Level Physics May/June 2020 examination, Paper 1 Variant 2.

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