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O-LevelPhysicsMagnetismOct/Nov 2024Paper 1 Q361 Mark

Students are asked to draw the pattern and direction of the magnetic field due to a direct current (d.c.) in a straight wire. Diagrams 1, 2 and 3 are three of their answers. [Figure showing three diagrams. Diagram 1 has concentric circles with clockwise arrows. Diagram 2 has concentric circles with counter-clockwise arrows. Diagram 3 has concentric circles with arrows pointing outwards radially]. The students do not know the direction of the current in the wire. Which diagrams show possible patterns and directions for the magnetic field due to the current in the wire?

A1, 2 and 3
B1 and 3 only
C1 only
D2 only

✓ Correct Answer

The correct answer is B: 1 and 3 only

📋 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 O-Level Physics Question

Topic

This multiple-choice question tests Magnetism in O-Level Physics (syllabus code 5054). It is worth 1 mark.

Source

This question appeared in the Cambridge O-Level Physics Oct/Nov 2024 examination, Paper 1 Variant 1.

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