State an expression for the electric field strength E at a distance r from a point charge Q in a vacuum. State the name of any other symbol used.
- (a)State an expression for the electric field strength E at a distance r from a point charge Q in a vacuum. State the name of any other symbol used.[2]
- (b)(i)Two point charges A and B are situated a distance 10.0cm apart in a vacuum, as illustrated in [Figure 6.1]. A point P lies on the line joining the charges A and B. Point P is a distance x from A. The variation with distance x of the electric field strength E at point P is shown in [Figure 6.2]. State and explain whether the charges A and B: have the same, or opposite, signs[2]
- (b)(ii)have the same, or different, magnitudes.[2]
- (c)An electron is situated at point P. Without calculation, state and explain the variation in the magnitude of the acceleration of the electron as it moves from the position where x = 3cm to the position where x = 7 cm.[4]
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Mark scheme
Marking points from the official mark scheme (Oct/Nov 2019). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.
- [M1] (Ε =) Q/ 4πε₀r²
- [A1] where ε₀ is permittivity (of free space)
- [M1] field does not change direction/field does not become zero
- [A1] so (charges have) opposite (sign)
- [M1] minimum is at the midpoint (between the charges)
- [A1] so (magnitudes are the) same
- [B1] force = field strength x charge and force = mass × acceleration
- [B1] or acceleration is proportional to field strength
- [B1] (from x = 3.0 cm) to x = 5.0 cm: acceleration decreases
- [B1] at x = 5.0 cm: acceleration is a minimum
- [B1] from x = 5.0 cm (to x = 7.0 cm): acceleration increases
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