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A-LevelPhysicsElectric fieldsOct/Nov 2010Paper 1 Q281 Mark

The diagram shows a vertical uniform electric field in a vacuum. [Figure showing vertical electric field lines pointing downwards, and a horizontal beam of electrons flowing from left to right.] An electron gun injects a beam of electrons horizontally into the field. Which changes, if any, have occurred to the path and speed of the electrons by the time the beam leaves the field?

Apath of electrons: deflected downwards, speed of electrons: increased
Bpath of electrons: deflected downwards, speed of electrons: unchanged
Cpath of electrons: deflected upwards, speed of electrons: increased
Dpath of electrons: deflected upwards, speed of electrons: unchanged

✓ Correct Answer

The correct answer is A: path of electrons: deflected downwards, speed of electrons: increased

📋 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 Electric fields 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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