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A-LevelPhysicsD.C. circuitsMay/June 2012Paper 1 Q371 Mark

The diagram shows the circuit for a signal to display a green or a red light. It is controlled by the switch S. [Figure 37.1] The signal is some way from S to which it is connected by a cable with green, red and black wires. At the signal, the green and red wires are connected to the corresponding lamp and the black wire is connected to a terminal x to provide a common return. The arrangement is shown correctly connected and with the switch set to illuminate the red lamp. During maintenance, the wires at the signal are disconnected and, when reconnected, the black wire is connected in error to the green lamp (terminal g) instead of terminal x. The red wire is connected correctly to its lamp and connections at S remain as in the diagram. [Figure 37.2] When the system is tested with the switch connection to the red wire, what does the signal show?

Athe green lamp illuminated normally
Bthe red lamp illuminated normally
Cthe red and green lamps both illuminated normally
Dthe red and green lamps both illuminated dimly

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The correct answer is D. This question tests the candidate's understanding of d.c. circuits within the Physicssyllabus. The examiner's mark scheme requires...

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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...

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About This A-Level Physics Question

This multiple-choice question appeared in the Cambridge A-Level Physics (9702) May/June 2012 examination, Paper 1 Variant 2. It tests the topic of D.C. circuits and is worth 1 mark.

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