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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

✓ Correct Answer

The correct answer is D: the red and green lamps both illuminated dimly

📋 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 D.C. circuits 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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