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A-LevelPhysicsDeformation of solidsMay/June 2011Paper 1 Q241 Mark

The diagram shows the structure of part of a mattress. The manufacturer wants to design a softer mattress (one which will compress more for the same load). Which change will not have the desired effect?

Ausing more layers of springs
Busing more springs per unit area
Cusing springs with a smaller spring constant
Dusing springs made from wire with a smaller Young modulus

✓ Correct Answer

The correct answer is B: using more springs per unit area

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

Source

This question appeared in the Cambridge A-Level Physics May/June 2011 examination, Paper 1 Variant 2.

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