A-LevelPhysicsWavesMay/June 2023Paper 1 Q271 Mark

A continuous progressive water wave in a ripple tank passes through a gap in a barrier and diffracts. The width of the gap is greater than the wavelength of the wave. Which change causes the wave to spread over a larger angle as it passes through the gap?

Q: What topic does this question test?

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

Asmall decrease in the wavelength of the wave

Bsmall decrease in the width of the gap

Csmall increase in the frequency of the wave

Dsmall increase in the height of the barrier

✓ Correct Answer

The correct answer is B: small decrease in the width of the gap

📋 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 2023 examination, Paper 1 Variant 2.

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