O-LevelPhysicsMeasurement5054/31 · Oct/Nov 2024 · Q110 Marks

In this experiment, you will measure the volume of a straw by two different methods. You are provided with: • two identical round straws • two set squares • a 30 cm ruler • a 50 cm³ measuring cylinder • scissors • paper towels to mop up any spillage. A container of water is available for you to use. (a) Method 1 (b) Method 2 Take the second straw. Immerse the straw fully in the container of water as shown in Fig. 1.2. [Figure 1.2] Move the straw backwards and forwards in the water several times so that the water enters the straw. Put a finger firmly over one end of the straw and remove the straw from the water. Put the straw above the open end of the measuring cylinder and remove the finger so that the water is transferred into the measuring cylinder. Repeat this process 5 more times for a total of 6 transfers.

(a)(i)Measure and record the length l of one of the straws. Give your answer to the nearest 0.1 cm. l = cm[1]
(a)(ii)Cut one of the straws into 5 pieces that are approximately equal in length. Line up the pieces of straw as shown in Fig. 1.1. Ensure the pieces of straw are touching. Length D is the width of the 5 pieces of straw placed side by side. Measure and record the length D for your 5 pieces of straw. D = cm[1]
(a)(iii)Use your answer to (a)(ii) to determine the diameter d of one straw. d = cm[1]
(a)(iv)Some of the apparatus on your bench is used to ensure that your measurement of D is as accurate as possible. Explain how you use this apparatus to make sure your measurement of D is as accurate as possible. You may draw a diagram to help your explanation.[1]
(a)(v)The volume V₁ of the straw is given by the equation: V₁ = 3.14d²l / 4 Use your answers from (a)(i) and (a)(iii) to calculate V₁. Give your answer to two significant figures. V₁ = cm³[2]
(b)(i)Measure and record the volume of water V_T in the measuring cylinder. V_T = cm³[1]
(b)(ii)Calculate the average volume of water V₂ in one straw. V₂ = cm³[1]
(c)Suggest two reasons why V₁ and V₂ are different.[2]

This question uses a diagram from the original paper, which isn't shown here. Open the full paper from the past papers archive to see it.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (Oct/Nov 2024). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

[1] l recorded in cm (± 0.2 cm from supervisor value) to the nearest 0.1 cm
[1] 2.8 ± 0.3 cm
[1] (a)(ii) ÷ 5
[1] correct use of set squares at each end lined up with rule or correct diagram
[1] correct calculation of V₁ from candidate's values of l and d
[1] value stated to 2 significant figures
[1] V_T measured and to nearest cm³ and volume less than 35 cm³
[1] (b)(i) ÷ 6
[2] Any 2 from: • air bubbles in the straw in method 2 • internal volume is smaller than external volume • straw became squashed / damaged • small amount of water may remain in the straw • water sticks to the finger • some water falls out during transfer in method 2 • straw not completely filled

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