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A-LevelPhysicsTemperatureOct/Nov 2010Paper 1 Q181 Mark

Below are four short paragraphs describing the molecules in a beaker of water at 50°C. Which paragraph correctly describes the molecules?

AThe molecules all travel at the same speed. This speed is not large enough for any of the molecules to leave the surface of the water. There are attractive forces between the molecules.
BThe molecules have a range of speeds. Some molecules travel sufficiently fast to leave the surface of the water. There are no forces between the molecules.
CThe molecules have a range of speeds. Some molecules travel sufficiently fast to leave the surface of the water. There are attractive forces between the molecules.
DThe molecules have a range of speeds. The fastest molecules are unable to leave the surface of the water. There are attractive forces between the molecules.

✓ Correct Answer

The correct answer is C: The molecules have a range of speeds. Some molecules travel sufficiently fast to leave the surface of the water. There are attractive forces between the molecules.

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

Source

This question appeared in the Cambridge A-Level Physics Oct/Nov 2010 examination, Paper 1 Variant 2.

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