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A-LevelPhysicsWork, energy and powerMay/June 2015Paper 1 Q161 Mark

The diagram shows a hydroelectric power station. [Figure showing a reservoir, a pipe (penstock) leading down to a turbine house, and points X (in reservoir) and Y (just before turbine).] The reservoir is linked to the turbines by a pipe of uniform cross-sectional area. Water flows from X to Y at constant speed. Which statement about the change of energy of the water as it moves from X to Y is correct?

AIt gains both gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy.
BIt loses both elastic potential energy and kinetic energy.
CIt loses both elastic potential energy and gravitational potential energy.
DIt loses gravitational potential energy and gains elastic potential energy.

✓ Correct Answer

The correct answer is D: It loses gravitational potential energy and gains elastic potential energy.

📋 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 Work, energy and power in A-Level Physics (syllabus code 9702). It is worth 1 mark.

Source

This question appeared in the Cambridge A-Level Physics May/June 2015 examination, Paper 1 Variant 2.

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