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A-LevelPhysicsSuperpositionFeb/Mar 2016Paper 1 Q241 Mark

The diagram represents the pattern of stationary waves formed by the superposition of sound waves from a loudspeaker and their reflection from a metal sheet (not shown). [Figure 24.1] W, X, Y and Z are four points on the line through the centre of these waves. Which statement about these stationary waves is correct?

AAn antinode is formed at the surface of the metal sheet.
Bnode is a quarter of a wavelength from an adjacent antinode.
CThe oscillations at X are in phase with those at Y.
DThe air particles oscillate perpendicular to the line WZ.

✓ Correct Answer

The correct answer is B: node is a quarter of a wavelength from an adjacent antinode.

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

Source

This question appeared in the Cambridge A-Level Physics Feb/Mar 2016 examination, Paper 1 Variant 2.

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