A student measures the resistance of 0.20 m, 0.40 m and 0.60 m of one uniform wire. Values are 1.6 Ω, 3.2 Ω and 5.6 Ω. The 0.60 m measurement is made after current has flowed for several minutes.
.1
Use the first two results to calculate the expected resistance of 0.60 m of wire at the original temperature.
[2 marks]
.2
Evaluate the final result and suggest how to improve the investigation.
[3 marks]
5 marksFoundation and Higher
Spec and skills
Original practice question
Answer and supported method checks
In a specific heat capacity investigation, a 0.60 kg block receives 7200 J from a heater. Its temperature rises from 18 °C to 38 °C. A second run with the same block and input energy gives a rise of only 16 °C.
.1
Calculate the specific heat capacity using the first run.
[3 marks]
.2
The student claims that the second run proves the metal has changed. Evaluate the claim and describe one check on the temperature measurement.
[2 marks]
6 marksHigher
Spec and skills
Original practice question
Answer and supported method checks
A simple motor has a rectangular current-carrying coil between two magnet poles. A student suggests increasing current, using stronger magnets and making the active sides parallel to the magnetic field to increase rotation.
Evaluate these suggestions using the motor effect. Explain the role of the two sides of the coil.
[6 marks]
4 marksHigher
Spec and skills
Original practice question
Answer and supported method checks
A heater supplies 12000 J to 0.10 kg of ice already at 0 °C. The specific latent heat of fusion is 334000 J/kg. Assume no energy reaches the surroundings.
.1
Calculate the mass of ice that melts.
[2 marks]
.2
Evaluate the statement that the final temperature must be above 0 °C because energy was supplied.
[2 marks]
6 marksHigher
Spec and skills
Original practice question
Answer and supported method checks
A student interprets two motions: a runner following a curved path at steady speed, and a trolley whose distance-time graph becomes progressively steeper.
Explain how velocity and acceleration apply to both motions and how graph measurements could distinguish them.
