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A-LevelPhysicsAlternating currentsFeb/Mar 2018Paper 4 Q66 Marks

The digital transmission of speech may be represented using the block diagram of [Figure 6.1]. (a) Part of the signal at point P on [Figure 6.1] is shown in [Figure 6.2]. The analogue-to-digital converter (ADC) samples the signal at time intervals of 0.25 ms. Each sample is converted into a four-bit number with the smallest bit representing 1.0 mV. Use [Figure 6.2] to determine the four-bit number produced by the ADC at time (i) 0.25 ms, (ii) 1.25 ms. (b) The digital number is transmitted and then converted to an analogue form by the digital-to-analogue converter (DAC). Use data from [Figure 6.2] to draw, on the axes of [Figure 6.3], the output level of the DAC for time t = 0 to time t = 1.50 ms. Assume that there is no time delay of the transmission of the signal between point P and the output of the DAC.

📋 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 Alternating currents in A-Level Physics (syllabus code 9702). It is worth 6 marks.

Source

This question appeared in the Cambridge A-Level Physics Feb/Mar 2018 examination, Paper 4 Variant 2.

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