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A-LevelPhysicsD.C. circuitsOct/Nov 2023Paper 1 Q371 Mark

In the circuit shown, a battery of negligible internal resistance is connected in series with a pair of fixed resistors R₁ and R₂. [Figure 37.1] The circuit is to be used to test whether the electromotive force (e.m.f.) of a particular cell is 1.5 V. The cell is connected between terminals X and Y in parallel with R₂ and in series with a galvanometer. Which statement about the test is correct?

AAny non-zero reading on the galvanometer means the cell has an e.m.f. of 1.5 V.
BThe battery does not need to have an e.m.f. of 6.0 V.
CThe cell may be connected either way round between X and Y.
DThe galvanometer does not need a scale calibrated in amperes.

✓ Correct Answer

The correct answer is D: The galvanometer does not need a scale calibrated in amperes.

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

Source

This question appeared in the Cambridge A-Level Physics Oct/Nov 2023 examination, Paper 1 Variant 2.

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