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A-LevelPhysicsTemperatureMay/June 2013Paper 1 Q191 Mark

The diagram shows an ice cube floating in water. [Figure showing an ice cube floating in water] Both the ice cube and the water are at 0°C. Which statement correctly compares the molecular properties of the ice and those of the water?

AThe mean inter-molecular potential energies are the same for both the ice molecules and the water molecules.
BThe mean inter-molecular separations are the same for both the ice and the water.
CThe mean kinetic energies are the same for both the ice molecules and the water molecules.
DThe mean total energies are the same for both the ice molecules and the water molecules.

✓ Correct Answer

The correct answer is C: The mean kinetic energies are the same for both the ice molecules and the water molecules.

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

Source

This question appeared in the Cambridge A-Level Physics May/June 2013 examination, Paper 1 Variant 2.

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