Two bar magnets P and Q are mounted on floats which can slide without friction along an air track. [Figure 11.1] The two magnets slide towards each other along the air track and interact, without making contact. The relative speed of approach of the magnets is equal to their relative speed of separation. Which statement about P and Q must be correct?
✓ Correct Answer
The correct answer is D: The values of (kinetic energy of P + kinetic energy of Q) before and after the interaction are equal.
📋 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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