A-LevelPhysicsWavesMay/June 2021Paper 1 Q271 Mark

Which diagram best shows how water waves diffract when they pass through a gap in a barrier?

Q: What topic does this question test?

This question tests Waves in A-Level Physics (syllabus code 9702). It is worth 1 mark.

ADiagram A showing plane waves encountering a gap, with minimal diffraction

BDiagram B showing plane waves encountering a gap, with significant diffraction into circular waves

CDiagram C showing circular waves encountering a gap, continuing as circular waves

DDiagram D showing plane waves encountering a gap, continuing as plane waves

✓ Correct Answer

The correct answer is B: Diagram B showing plane waves encountering a gap, with significant diffraction into circular waves

📋 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 Waves in A-Level Physics (syllabus code 9702). It is worth 1 mark.

Source

This question appeared in the Cambridge A-Level Physics May/June 2021 examination, Paper 1 Variant 2.

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