Q1.

The National Grid uses transformers to change potential difference (pd).

Figure 1 shows a transformer.

Figure 1

(a) Identify the parts of the transformer labelled in Figure 1.

A ______________________________

B ______________________________

C ______________________________
(2)

(b) There is an alternating input pd of 230 V.

Determine the output pd.

Use the Physics Equations Sheet.

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Output pd = __________ V
(3)

(c) The input pd causes an alternating current.

Explain why there is an alternating current in the output when the transformer is
connected to a circuit.

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 ___________________________________________________________________

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(3)

Figure 2 shows a large cable supported by two wooden poles. The cable is connected to
an electricity supply.

Figure 2

(d) There is a force on the cable due to the Earth’s magnetic field when the current is in
the direction A to B.

What is the direction of this force?

Tick (✓) one box.

Down

Left

Right

Up

(e) The cable experiences a force of 0.045 N due to the Earth’s magnetic field.

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 magnetic flux density = 60 µT

current = 50 A

Calculate the length of the cable between A and B.

Use the Physics Equations Sheet.

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Length = __________ m
(4)

(f) State one assumption you made in your calculation.

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(1)
(Total 14 marks)

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Mark schemes

Q1.
(a) A primary coil
and
B secondary coil
1

C iron core
1

(b)
1

Vs = 1380 (V)
1

(c) (the alternating current causes) a changing magnetic field

around the primary (coil)
1

creates magnetic field that changes direction in the core

allow creates a changing magnetic field in the core
1

this induces an alternating potential difference across the

secondary (coil (causing an alternating current)
1

(d) down
1

(e) B = 60 × 10−6 T
1

0.045 = 60 × 10−6 × 50 × l
allow correct substitution of incorrectly / not converted value
of B
1

allow correct rearrangement using an incorrectly / not

converted value of B
1

l = 15 (m)
allow a correct calculation using an incorrectly / not
converted value of B
1

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(e) the wire / force is at right angles to the magnetic field
allow the current is constant
allow the cable is straight
allow the field is uniform
allow the force is constant
1
[14]

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