A-LevelPhysicsForces, density and pressureMay/June 2012Paper 1 Q141 Mark

A ladder is positioned on icy (frictionless) ground and is leant against a rough wall. At the instant of release it begins to slide. Which diagram correctly shows the directions of the forces P, W and R acting on the ladder as it begins to slide?

Q: What topic does this question test?

This question tests Forces, density and pressure in A-Level Physics (syllabus code 9702). It is worth 1 mark.

AP is horizontal to the right, W is vertically downwards, R is vertically upwards.

BP is horizontal to the right, W is vertically downwards, R is directed upwards and to the left.

CP is horizontal to the right, W is vertically downwards, R is directed upwards and to the right.

DP is horizontal to the left, W is vertically downwards, R is directed upwards and to the left.

✓ Correct Answer

The correct answer is B: P is horizontal to the right, W is vertically downwards, R is directed upwards and to the left.

📋 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 Forces, density and pressure in A-Level Physics (syllabus code 9702). It is worth 1 mark.

Source

This question appeared in the Cambridge A-Level Physics May/June 2012 examination, Paper 1 Variant 2.

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