Skip to main content
A-LevelPhysicsElectric fieldsOct/Nov 2021Paper 1 Q321 Mark

A proton enters the uniform electric field between two parallel vertical metal plates in a vacuum. One plate is at a potential of 0 V and the other plate is at a potential of +10 V, as shown. [Figure 32.1] What is the initial change in the motion of the proton caused by the electric field, immediately after the proton enters the field?

AIt begins to move downwards.
BIt begins to move upwards.
CIts speed decreases.
DIts speed increases.

✓ Correct Answer

The correct answer is C: Its speed decreases.

📋 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.

🔒

Unlock the Examiner's Analysis

Sign up for free to reveal the full examiner report, trap analysis, and mark scheme breakdown for this question.

Sign Up Free to Unlock →

Join thousands of Cambridge students already using Oracle Prep

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 2021 examination, Paper 1 Variant 2.

Practice on Oracle Prep

Oracle Prep provides AI-powered practice for all Cambridge O-Level and A-Level subjects. Our platform includes topic predictions with 87.7% accuracy, AI essay grading, and a comprehensive question bank spanning 25 years of past papers across 29 subjects.

Related Physics Questions

© 2026 Oracle Prep — The AI-Powered Cambridge Exam Engine