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A-LevelPhysicsThermodynamicsMay/June 2021Paper 5 Q115 Marks

A student investigates the heating of a solid metal cylinder. Fig. 1.1 shows the cylinder of cross-sectional area A and height h. h A cylinder Fig. 1.1 The student places the cylinder and an electrical heater in a beaker of water. The electrical heater is switched on and the student measures the time t for the temperature of the water to increase by Δθ. A number of cylinders of the same material but with different cross-sectional areas are available. It is suggested that the relationship between t and A is Pt = AhWΔθ + ZΔθ where P is the power of the heater and W and Z are constants. Design a laboratory experiment to test the relationship between t and A. Explain how your results could be used to determine values for W and Z. You should draw a diagram, on page 3, showing the arrangement of your equipment. In your account you should pay particular attention to: • the procedure to be followed • the measurements to be taken • the control of variables • the analysis of the data • any safety precautions to be taken.

📋 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 structured question tests Thermodynamics in A-Level Physics (syllabus code 9702). It is worth 15 marks.

Source

This question appeared in the Cambridge A-Level Physics May/June 2021 examination, Paper 5 Variant 2.

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