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A-LevelPhysicsD.C. circuitsMay/June 2017Paper 1 Q371 Mark

A circuit is set up as shown. [Figure shows a circuit with a cell, an ammeter (A), and two voltmeters (P and Q) across different parts of a series circuit including a variable resistor.] The variable resistor is adjusted so that the ammeter reading decreases. How do the readings of the voltmeters change? [Table with columns: reading on voltmeter P, reading on voltmeter Q. Rows for A, B, C, D show different changes (decreases/increases).]

Areading on voltmeter P: decreases, reading on voltmeter Q: decreases
Breading on voltmeter P: decreases, reading on voltmeter Q: increases
Creading on voltmeter P: increases, reading on voltmeter Q: decreases
Dreading on voltmeter P: increases, reading on voltmeter Q: increases

✓ Correct Answer

The correct answer is B: reading on voltmeter P: decreases, reading on voltmeter Q: increases

📋 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 2017 examination, Paper 1 Variant 2.

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