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A-LevelPhysicsWavesFeb/Mar 2019Paper 1 Q231 Mark

The top row of bars represents a set of particles inside the Earth and at rest. The lower row represents the same particles at one instant as a longitudinal wave passes from left to right through the Earth. [Figure 23.1] What should be measured to determine the amplitude of the oscillations of the particles in the lower row as the wave passes?

Ahalf the maximum displacement of the particles from their position at rest
Bhalf the maximum distance apart of the particles
Cthe maximum displacement of the particles from their position at rest
Dthe maximum distance apart of the particles

✓ Correct Answer

The correct answer is C: the maximum displacement of the particles from their position at rest

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

Source

This question appeared in the Cambridge A-Level Physics Feb/Mar 2019 examination, Paper 1 Variant 2.

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