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A-LevelPhysicsSuperpositionOct/Nov 2010Paper 1 Q261 Mark

A microwave transmitter emits waves towards a metal plate. The waves strike the plate and are reflected back along their original path. [Figure showing incident and reflected waves, forming a stationary wave. Points P, Q, R, S, T are marked along the line. T is closest to the plate, P is furthest. Points are minima.] A microwave detector is moved along the line PT. Points P, Q, R, S and T are the positions where minima of intensity are observed. These points are found to be 15 mm apart. What is the frequency of the microwaves?

A5.0 GHz
B6.7 GHz
C10 GHz
D20 GHz

✓ Correct Answer

The correct answer is C: 10 GHz

📋 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 Superposition 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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