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A-LevelPhysicsDynamicsOct/Nov 2015Paper 1 Q111 Mark

A single horizontal force F is applied to a block X which is in contact with a separate block Y as shown. [Figure showing force F applied to block X, which is in contact with block Y] The blocks remain in contact as they accelerate along a horizontal frictionless surface. Air resistance is negligible. X has a greater mass than Y. Which statement is correct?

AThe acceleration of X is equal to force F divided by the mass of X.
BThe force that X exerts on Y is equal to F.
CThe force that X exerts on Y is less than F.
DThe force that X exerts on Y is less than the force that Y exerts on X.

✓ Correct Answer

The correct answer is C: The force that X exerts on Y is less than F.

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

Source

This question appeared in the Cambridge A-Level Physics Oct/Nov 2015 examination, Paper 1 Variant 2.

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