Topic D [170 marks]

1. [Maximum mark: 1] SPM.1A.SL.TZ0.18

Planets X and Y orbit the same star.

The average distance between planet X and the star is five times
greater than the average distance between planet Y and the star.

orbital period of planet X

What is orbital period of planet Y
?

A.
3
√5

B. √5

C.
3
√5 2

D. √5 3 [1]

Markscheme

D
2. [Maximum mark: 1] SPM.1A.SL.TZ0.19
A charged rod is brought near an initially neutral metal sphere without
touching it.

When the sphere is grounded (earthed), there is an electric current for a

short time from the sphere to the ground.

The ground connection is then removed.

What are the charge on the rod and the charge induced on the sphere
when the connection is removed?

[1]

Markscheme

C
3. [Maximum mark: 1] SPM.1A.SL.TZ0.20
A positive point charge of magnitude 1.0 μC and a point charge q are
separated by a distance d.

An electron is placed at a distance d from the +1.0 μC charge. The

electric force on the electron is zero.

What is q?

A. −4.0 μC

B. −2.0 μC

C. 2.0 μC

D. 4.0 μC [1]

Markscheme

A
4. [Maximum mark: 1] SPM.1A.HL.TZ0.24
A solid metallic sphere is positively charged and isolated from all other
charges.

The electric potential due to the sphere

A. is constant inside the sphere.

B. is constant outside the sphere.

C. is smallest at the surface of the sphere.

D. increases with distance from the sphere. [1]

Markscheme

A
5. [Maximum mark: 1] SPM.1A.HL.TZ0.25
A planet orbits the Sun in an elliptical orbit moving in the direction
shown.

At the position shown, which quantity is decreasing for the planet?

A. Acceleration

B. Angular momentum

C. Kinetic energy

D. Gravitational potential energy [1]

Markscheme

D
6. [Maximum mark: 1] SPM.1A.HL.TZ0.27
P is a point in a uniform electric field.

What is the direction in which the electric potential increases at P?

[1]

Markscheme

B
7. [Maximum mark: 1] SPM.1A.HL.TZ0.28
Planets X and Y orbit the same star.

The average distance between planet X and the star is five times
greater than the average distance between planet Y and the star.

orbital period of planet X

What is orbital period of planet Y
?

A.
3
√5

B. √5

C.
3
√5 2

D. √5 3 [1]

Markscheme

D
8. [Maximum mark: 1] SPM.1A.HL.TZ0.30
A spherical planet has a radius R0.

The graph shows the variation of the gravitational potential due to the
planet with distance r from the centre of the planet.

What is the escape speed from the surface of the planet?

A. 1.6 × 103 m s−1

B. 2.2 × 103 m s−1

C. 3.2 × 103 m s−1

D. 4.5 × 103 m s−1 [1]

Markscheme

C
9. [Maximum mark: 1] SPM.1A.HL.TZ0.31
A charged rod is brought near an initially neutral metal sphere without
touching it.

When the sphere is grounded (earthed), there is an electric current for a

short time from the sphere to the ground.

The ground connection is then removed.

What are the charge on the rod and the charge induced on the sphere
when the connection is removed?

[1]

Markscheme

C
10. [Maximum mark: 1] SPM.1A.HL.TZ0.32
A positive point charge of magnitude 1.0 μC and a point charge q are
separated by a distance d.

An electron is placed at a distance d from the +1.0 μC charge. The

electric force on the electron is zero.

What is q?

A. −4.0 μC

B. −2.0 μC

C. 2.0 μC

D. 4.0 μC [1]

Markscheme

A
11. [Maximum mark: 4] SPM.2.SL.TZ0.3
A satellite moves around Earth in a circular orbit.

(a) Draw an arrow on the diagram to represent the direction of the

acceleration of the satellite. [1]

Markscheme

arrow normal to the orbit towards the Earth ✓

(b) The following data are given:

Mass of Earth, M = 5.97 × 1024 kg

Radius of Earth, R = 6.37 × 106 m
Orbital period of the satellite, T = 5.62 × 103 s

(b.i) Kepler’s Third Law of orbital motion states that T 2 = kr

3

where k is a constant and r is the orbital radius of the satellite.

4π
2

Show that k =
GM
. [1]

Markscheme
 2πr GM
use of v orbital =
T
AND either v orbital = √
r
or
2
mv
orbital

r
=
GM m

r
2
correctly manipulated ✓

4π
2

«to yield T 2 = (
GM
)r
3
»

Allow use of ω.

(b.ii) Determine the height of the satellite above the Earth’s surface. [2]

Markscheme

−11 24 2
2 3 6.67×10 ×5.97×10 ×(5620)
r = √
3 GM T

4π
2
= √
4π
2
✓

= 6. 83 × 10
6
«m»

6 6 5
height = «6. 83 × 10 − 6. 37 × 10 =» 4. 6 × 10 «m» ✓
12. [Maximum mark: 20] SPM.2.SL.TZ0.7
The diagram shows two parallel conducting plates that are oppositely charged.

(a.i) Draw the electric field lines due to the charged plates. [2]

Markscheme

equally spaced arrows «by eye» all pointing down ✓

edge effects also shown with arrows ✓

(a.ii) The potential difference between the plates is 960 V and the
distance between them is 8.0 mm. Calculate the electric field
strength E between the plates. [2]

Markscheme

V 960
E =
d
= −3
✓
8.0×10

E = 1. 2 × 10
5
«NC−1» ✓

In an experiment, an oil drop is introduced into the space between the plates
through a small hole in the upper plate. The oil drop moves through air in a tube
before falling between the plates.
(b) Explain why the oil drop becomes charged as it falls through
the tube. [1]

Markscheme

friction transfers electron(s) to or from drop

AND

through collisions/ interaction with air molecules in the tube OR through

collisions/interaction with wall of tube ✓

(c) The oil drop is observed to be stationary in the space between

the plates. Buoyancy is one of the forces acting on the drop.

The density of oil is 730 times greater than that of air.

(c.i) Show that the buoyancy force is much smaller than the weight. [3]

Markscheme

weight of oil drop is ρ o gV ✓

Fb ρ a gV ρa

W
=
ρ o gV
=
ρo
✓

Fb
«W =» 1. 4 × 10
1 −3
=
730

OR
 Ratio of F b to W is much less than 1 ✓

(c.ii) Draw the forces acting on the oil drop, ignoring the buoyancy
force.

[2]

Markscheme

Weight vertically down AND electric force vertically up ✓

Of equal length «by eye» ✓

(c.iii) Show that the electric charge on the oil drop is given by

ρ o gV
q =
E

where ρ o is the density of oil and V is the volume of the oil

drop. [2]

Markscheme

Mass of drop is ρ 0 V ✓

qE = (ρ 0 V )g ✓

«hence answer»

MP1 must be shown implicitly for credit.

(c.iv) State the sign of the charge on the oil drop. [1]

Markscheme

Negative ✓

(d) The electric field is turned off. The oil drop falls vertically
reaching a constant speed v.

(d.i) Outline why, for this drop, ρ o gV = 6πηrv where η is the

viscosity of air and r is the radius of the oil drop. [2]

Markscheme

Net force is zero ✓

Acceleration of the oil drop is zero ✓

OR

For terminal velocity drag must equal weight ✓

weight = ρ o gV and drag = 6πηrv ✓

(d.ii) Show that the charge on the oil drop is about 4. 8 × 10

−19
C

The following data for the oil drop are available:

r = 1. 36 μm
−5
η = 1. 60 × 10 Pa s

v = 0. 140 mm s
−1
[3]

Markscheme

6πηrv
q =
E
✓
 −5 −6 −4
6π×1.60×10 ×1.36×10 ×1.40×10
q = 5
✓
1.2×10

−19
q = 4. 79 × 10 «C» ✓

Answer must be shown to 3+ sf.

(d.iii) The oil drop splits into two parts of equal mass. Both are
charged. Deduce the net charge on each part. [2]

Markscheme

charge is quantized ✓

so, the charges must be 1e and 2e ✓

13. [Maximum mark: 20] SPM.2.HL.TZ0.9
The diagram shows two parallel conducting plates that are oppositely charged.

(a.i) Draw the electric field lines due to the charged plates. [2]

Markscheme

equally spaced arrows «by eye» all pointing down ✓

edge effects also shown with arrows ✓

(a.ii) The potential difference between the plates is 960 V and the
distance between them is 8.0 mm. Calculate the electric field
strength E between the plates. [2]

Markscheme

V 960
E =
d
= −3
✓
8.0×10

E = 1. 2 × 10
5
«NC−1» ✓

In an experiment, an oil drop is introduced into the space between the plates
through a small hole in the upper plate. The oil drop moves through air in a tube
before falling between the plates.
(b) Explain why the oil drop becomes charged as it falls through
the tube. [1]

Markscheme

friction transfers electron(s) to or from drop

AND

through collisions/ interaction with air molecules in the tube OR

through collisions/interaction with wall of tube ✓

(c) The oil drop is observed to be stationary in the space between

the plates. Buoyancy is one of the forces acting on the drop.

The density of oil is 730 times greater than that of air.

(c.i) Show that the buoyancy force is much smaller than the weight. [3]

Markscheme

weight of oil drop is ρ o gV ✓

Fb ρ a gV ρa

W
=
ρ o gV
=
ρo
✓

Fb
«W =» 1. 4 × 10
1 −3
=
730

OR
 Ratio of F b to W is much less than 1 ✓

(c.ii) Draw the forces acting on the oil drop, ignoring the buoyancy
force.

[2]

Markscheme

Weight vertically down AND electric force vertically up ✓

Of equal length «by eye» ✓

(c.iii) Show that the electric charge on the oil drop is given by

ρ o gV
q =
E

where ρ o is the density of oil and V is the volume of the oil

drop. [2]

Markscheme

Mass of drop is ρ o V ✓

qE = (ρ o V )g ✓

«hence answer»
 MP1 must be shown implicitly for credit.

(c.iv) State the sign of the charge on the oil drop. [1]

Markscheme

Negative ✓

(d) The electric field is turned off. The oil drop falls vertically
reaching a constant speed v.

(d.i) Outline why, for this drop, ρ o gV = 6πηrv where η is the

viscosity of air and r is the radius of the oil drop. [2]

Markscheme

Net force is zero ✓

Acceleration of the oil drop is zero ✓

OR

For terminal velocity drag must equal weight

weight = ρ o gV and drag = 6πηrv ✓

(d.ii) Show that the charge on the oil drop is about 4. 8 × 10

−19
C.

The following data for the oil drop are available:

r = 1. 36 μm
−5
η = 1. 60 × 10 Pa s

v = 0. 140 mm s
−1
[3]

Markscheme
 6πηrv
q =
E
✓
−5 −6 −4
6π×1.60×10 ×1.36×10 ×1.40×10
q = 5
✓
1.2×10

−19
q = 4. 79 × 10 «C» ✓

Answer must be shown to 3+ sf.

(d.iii) The oil drop splits into two parts of equal mass. Both are
charged. Deduce the net charge on each part. [2]

Markscheme

charge is quantized ✓

so, the charges must be 1e and 2e ✓

14. [Maximum mark: 7] SPM.2.HL.TZ0.4
A satellite moves around Earth in a circular orbit.

(a) Draw an arrow on the diagram to represent the direction of the

acceleration of the satellite. [1]

Markscheme

arrow normal to the orbit towards the Earth ✓

(b) The following data are given:

Mass of Earth, M = 5.97 × 1024 kg

Radius of Earth, R = 6.37 × 106 m
Orbital period of the satellite, T = 5.62 × 103 s

(b.i) Kepler’s Third Law of orbital motion states that T 2 = kr

3

where k is a constant and r is the orbital radius of the satellite.

4π
2

Show that k =
GM
. [1]

Markscheme
 2πr GM
use of v orbital =
T
AND either v orbital = √
r
or
2
mv
orbital

r
=
GM m

r
2
correctly manipulated ✓

4π
2

«to yield T 2 = (
GM
)r
3
»

Allow use of ω.

(b.ii) Determine the height of the satellite above the Earth’s surface. [2]

Markscheme

−11 24 2
2 3 6.67×10 ×5.97×10 ×(5620)
r = √
3 GM T

4π
2
= √
4π
2
✓

= 6. 83 × 10
6
«m»

6 6 5
height = «6. 83 × 10 − 6. 37 × 10 =» 4. 6 × 10 «m» ✓

(c) The atmosphere exerts a small viscous drag force on the

satellite.

Outline how the total energy, kinetic energy, and gravitational

potential energy change for the satellite during one orbit
around Earth. [3]

Markscheme

Total energy is reduced ✓

hence decrease in orbital radius leads to increase in kinetic energy ✓

decrease in potential energy must be larger than increase in kinetic energy

for total energy to decrease ✓
 Allow ECF from b ii.

15. [Maximum mark: 1] EXE.1A.SL.TZ0.13

Planets X and Y move in circular orbits around the same star.

The orbital period of planet Y is twice the orbital period of planet X. The
orbital radius of planet X is R.

What is the orbital radius of planet Y?

A.
3
√ 2R

B.
3
√ 4R

C. 2R

D. 4R [1]

Markscheme

B
16. [Maximum mark: 1] EXE.1A.SL.TZ0.14
Kepler’s Third law relates the orbital period T of a planet about its sun
to its orbital radius r. The mass of the Sun is M .

What is a correct algebraic form of the law?

2πr
1.5

A. T = 0.5
(GM )

2πr
1.5

B. T =
GM

4πr
0.67

C. T = 2
(GM )

4πr
0.67

D. T =
GM
[1]

Markscheme

A
17. [Maximum mark: 1] EXE.1A.HL.TZ0.25
A space probe moves in a circular orbit around Earth. The kinetic
energy of the probe is E .

The probe will reach the escape speed when its kinetic energy is
increased at least to:

A. √ 2E

B. 2E

C. 2√ 2E

D. 4E [1]

Markscheme

B
18. [Maximum mark: 1] EXE.1A.HL.TZ0.26
What is the escape speed from the surface of a planet of radius r that
has an acceleration of gravity g at its surface?

g
A. √
r

B. √ gr

2g
C. √
r

D. √ 2gr [1]

Markscheme

D
19. [Maximum mark: 5] EXE.2.SL.TZ0.11
(a) A comet orbits the Sun in an elliptical orbit. A and B are two
positions of the comet.

Explain, with reference to Kepler’s second law of planetary

motion, the change in the kinetic energy of the comet as it
moves from A to B. [3]

Markscheme

The areas swept out in unit time by the Sun-comet line are the same at A
and B ✓

At B, the distance is greater hence the orbital speed/distance moved in unit

time is lower «so that the area remains the same» ✓

A decrease in speed means that the kinetic energy also decreases ✓

(b) An asteroid (minor planet) orbits the Sun in a circular orbit of

radius 4.5 × 108 km. The radius of Earth’s orbit is 1.5 × 108 km.
Calculate, in years, the orbital period of the asteroid. [2]

Markscheme

2 3
An attempt to use Kepler’s 3rd law, e.g., ( T1 ) = (
4.5

1.5
) ✓

1.5
T =« ( =» 5.2 «years» ✓
4.5
)
1.5
20. [Maximum mark: 7] EXE.2.SL.TZ0.12
One of Kepler’s laws suggests that for moons that have circular orbits around a
planet:
2
T
= k
4πr
3

where T is the orbital period of the moon, r is the radius of its circular orbit
about the planet, and k is a constant.

(a) Show that k =

1
. [2]
GM

Markscheme

Equates centripetal force (with Newton’s law of gravitation

mr ω
2
=
GM m

r
2
)

OR

2π
T =
ω
✓

Uses both equation correctly with clear re-arrangement ✓

(b) The table gives data relating to the two moons of Mars.

Moon T / hour r / Mm
Phobos 7.66 9.38
Deimos 30.4 -

Determine r for Deimos. [2]

Markscheme
 2 3
T r
r
3
De
=
De

2
Ph
seen or correct substitution ✓
T
Ph

23.5 Mm ✓

(c) Determine the mass of Mars. [3]

Markscheme

Converts T to 27.6 ks and converts to m from Mm ✓

«s2 m−3» ✓
−14
k = 7. 33 × 10

«M =
1

kG
»= 2. 04 × 10
23
«kg» ✓

MP1 can be implicit

21. [Maximum mark: 6] EXE.2.SL.TZ0.13
(a) Show that T ∝ r
3

for the planets in a solar system where T is

2

the orbital period of a planet and r is the radius of circular orbit

of planet about its sun. [2]

Markscheme

Equates centripetal force (with Newton’s law gravitation mr ω 2

GM m
= 2
r

AND

2π
T =
ω
✓

4π
2

leads to T 2 = r
3
× (
GM
) hence result ✓

(b.i) Outline what is meant by one astronomical unit (1 AU) [1]

Markscheme

«mean» Distance from centre of Sun to centre of Earth ✓

OR

Suitable ratio in terms of parsec and arcsecond ✓

(b.ii) Pluto is a dwarf planet of the Sun that orbits at a distance of 5.9
× 109 km from the Sun. Determine, in years, the orbital period of
Pluto. [3]

Markscheme

3
r
T
2
Pluto
= T
2
Earth r 3
Pluto
used ✓
Earth
 Earth orbital radius = 1.5 × 1011 m (from AU) AND uses 1 earth year (in any
units) ✓

247 years ✓

22. [Maximum mark: 1] EXE.2.HL.TZ0.i

orbital speed; [1]

Markscheme

−11 24

«m s−1» ✓
6.67×10 ×5.97×10
«√ 6
=»7. 71 × 10
3

6.70×10
23. [Maximum mark: 7] EXE.2.HL.TZ0.16
(a) The radius of the dwarf planet Pluto is 1.19 x 106 m. The
acceleration due to gravity at its surface is 0.617 m s−2.

Determine the escape speed for an object at the surface of

Pluto. [4]

Markscheme

2GM GM
v esc = √
r
AND g =
r
2
seen ✓

2
2gr
v esc = √
r
✓

Leading to v esc = √ 2gr ✓

1.2 km s−1 ✓

(b) Pluto rotates about an axis through its centre. Its rotation is in
the opposite sense to that of the Earth, i.e. from east to west.

Explain the advantage of an object launching from the equator

of Pluto and travelling to the west. [3]

Markscheme

Object at equator has the maximum linear/tangential speed possible ✓

It therefore has maximum kinetic energy before takeoff (and this is not
required from the fuel) ✓

Idea that the object is already moving in direction of planet before takeoff
✓
24. [Maximum mark: 1] EXE.2.HL.TZ0.i
orbital speed; [1]

Markscheme

−11 24

«m s−1» ✓
6.67×10 ×5.97×10
«√ 6
=»7. 71 × 10
3

6.70×10

25. [Maximum mark: 1] 23N.1A.SL.TZ1.18

Two point charges of +4q and −q are placed a fixed distance apart.
Where is the electric field strength equal to zero?

[1]

Markscheme

D
26. [Maximum mark: 1] 23N.1A.SL.TZ1.23
The mass of a planet X is 300 times larger than the mass of the Earth
and its radius is 10 times larger than the radius of the Earth. What is the
gravitational field strength on the surface of planet X in terms of the
gravitational field strength g on the surface of Earth?
g
A. 30

g
B. 3

C. 3g

D. 30 g

[1]

Markscheme

27. [Maximum mark: 1] 23N.1A.SL.TZ2.18

Two point charges of +4q and −q are placed a fixed distance apart.
Where is the electric field strength equal to zero?

[1]

Markscheme

D
28. [Maximum mark: 1] 23N.1A.SL.TZ2.23
The mass of a planet X is 300 times larger than the mass of the Earth
and its radius is 10 times larger than the radius of the Earth. What is the
gravitational field strength on the surface of planet X in terms of the
gravitational field strength g on the surface of Earth?
g
A. 30

g
B. 3

C. 3g

D. 30 g

[1]

Markscheme

29. [Maximum mark: 1] 23N.1A.HL.TZ1.15

Two point charges of +4q and −q are placed a fixed distance apart.
Where is the electric field strength equal to zero?

[1]

Markscheme

D
30. [Maximum mark: 1] 23N.1A.HL.TZ1.18
The mass of a planet X is 300 times larger than the mass of the Earth
and its radius is 10 times larger than the radius of the Earth. What is the
gravitational field strength on the surface of planet X in terms of the
gravitational field strength g on the surface of Earth?
g
A. 30

g
B. 3

C. 3g

D. 30 g

[1]

Markscheme

C
31. [Maximum mark: 1] 23N.1A.HL.TZ1.27
An isolated point charge q is located at point X. Two other points Y
and Z are such that YZ = 2 XY.

What is ?
electric f ield at Y

electric f ield at Z

A. 1

B. 1

C. 3

D. 9 [1]

Markscheme

D
32. [Maximum mark: 1] 23N.1A.HL.TZ1.28
Two very long parallel plates, X and Y, have equal and opposite
charges. The potential on X is VX and that on Y is VY where VX>VY . A
point particle of positive charge q and mass m is held at rest midway
between the plates.

The particle is then released. Which plate will the particle move toward
and what kinetic energy does it have when it reaches the plate?

[1]

Markscheme

D
33. [Maximum mark: 1] 23N.1A.HL.TZ1.29
A hollow metallic sphere of radius R has a positive charge Q. P is a
point a distance from the centre of the sphere.
R

What are the electric potential and the electric field at point P?

[1]

Markscheme

D
34. [Maximum mark: 1] 23N.1A.HL.TZ1.30
A satellite of mass m is in orbit around a planet of radius R and mass
M . The total energy of the satellite is − .
GM m

4R

What is the radius of the orbit?

A. R

B.
4R

C. 2R

8R
D. 3
[1]

Markscheme

35. [Maximum mark: 1] 23N.1A.HL.TZ2.15

Two point charges of +4q and −q are placed a fixed distance apart.
Where is the electric field strength equal to zero?

[1]

Markscheme

D
36. [Maximum mark: 1] 23N.1A.HL.TZ2.18
The mass of a planet X is 300 times larger than the mass of the Earth
and its radius is 10 times larger than the radius of the Earth. What is the
gravitational field strength on the surface of planet X in terms of the
gravitational field strength g on the surface of Earth?
g
A. 30

g
B. 3

C. 3g

D. 30 g

[1]

Markscheme

C
37. [Maximum mark: 1] 23N.1A.HL.TZ2.27
An isolated point charge q is located at point X. Two other points Y
and Z are such that YZ = 2 XY.

What is ?
electric f ield at Y

electric f ield at Z

A. 1

B. 1

C. 3

D. 9 [1]

Markscheme

D
38. [Maximum mark: 1] 23N.1A.HL.TZ2.28
Two very long parallel plates, X and Y, have equal and opposite
charges. The potential on X is VX and that on Y is VY where VX>VY . A
point particle of positive charge q and mass m is held at rest midway
between the plates.

The particle is then released. Which plate will the particle move toward
and what kinetic energy does it have when it reaches the plate?

[1]

Markscheme

D
39. [Maximum mark: 1] 23N.1A.HL.TZ2.29
A hollow metallic sphere of radius R has a positive charge Q. P is a
point a distance from the centre of the sphere.
R

What are the electric potential and the electric field at point P?

[1]

Markscheme

D
40. [Maximum mark: 1] 23N.1A.HL.TZ2.30
A satellite of mass m is in orbit around a planet of radius R and mass
M . The total energy of the satellite is − .
GM m

4R

What is the radius of the orbit?

A. R

B.
4R

C. 2R

8R
D. 3
[1]

Markscheme

C
41. [Maximum mark: 12] 23N.2.SL.TZ1.1
A space probe of mass 95 kg is designed to land on the surface of an asteroid.
The gravitational field strength g of the asteroid at its surface is 2.7 × 10−3 m s−2.

(a) The radius r of the asteroid is 230 km. Calculate the mass of the
asteroid. [2]

Markscheme

2
2 −3 5
gr 2.7×10 ×(2.3×10 )
M = « G
= » −11
✔
6.67×10

18
2. 1 × 10 « kg » ✔

(b) The probe is carried to the asteroid on board a spacecraft.

Calculate the weight of the probe when close to the surface of

the asteroid. [1]

Markscheme

0.25−0.26 «N» ✔

(c.i) As the probe approaches the surface of the asteroid, a rocket

engine is fired to slow its descent. Explain how the engine
changes the speed of the probe. [3]

Markscheme
 ALTERNATIVE 1
the engine exerts an upward/opposing force «on the probe» ✔
«upward» force is greater than weight/grav force OR there is an upward
resultant/net force ✔
« by NII » this causes deceleration/reduction in speed ✔

ALTERNATIVE 2
the engine/probe exerts a force on the fuel molecules/gas ✔
«by NIII» an equal and opposite force acts on the engine/probe ✔
« by NII » this causes deceleration/reduction in speed ✔

ALTERNATIVE 3
engine causes change in momentum to fuel molecules/gas ✔
«by conservation of momentum» the probe has an equal and opposite
change in momentum ✔
this results in deceleration/reduction in speed ✔

Marks may only be awarded from one alternative.

Examiners should determine which alternative provides the most marks.
MP3 must have a reduction in speed not just a change in speed

(c.ii) A constant force of 12.0 N is exerted by the rocket engine.

Determine the time for which the rocket must fire to reduce the
speed of the probe from 0.64 m s−1 to zero. State your answer
to an appropriate number of significant figures. [4]

Markscheme

ALTERNATIVE 1

net force on probe=12−0.26=«11.7» «N» ✔

change in momentum=0.64×95=« 60.8 Ns » ✔

time=« 60.8/11.7»=5.2 to 5.3 « s » ✔

any answer to 2 s.f. ✔

 ALTERNATIVE 2

net force on probe=12−0.26=« 11.7 » «N» ✔

acceleration «=F/m »=11.7/95 «=0.12 » ✔

time=« 0.64/0.12 »=5.2 to 5.3 « s » ✔

any answer to 2 s.f. ✔

Allow ECF from 1b

(d) As the probe lands, a small stone resting on a rock on the

asteroid’s surface is projected horizontally from the top of the
rock. The horizontal speed of the stone is 34 m s−1 from a
height of 1.9 m above the surface of the asteroid.

Estimate the horizontal distance from the stone’s point of

projection along the line AB at which the stone lands. Ignore
the curvature of the asteroid. [2]

Markscheme

time to reach surface = «√ »37. 5 «s» ✔

2×1.9
−3
=
2.7×10

distance travelled horizontally=« 34 × 37.5 »=1300 «m» ✔

Award [2] for BCA
(Allow unrounded correct answers e.g. 1275)
Check units match power of ten e.g. 1.3 km scores both marks
Award [1 max] for 21 «m» (g taken as 9.81)
Watch for ECF from incorrect t.
42. [Maximum mark: 12] 23N.2.SL.TZ2.1
A space probe of mass 95 kg is designed to land on the surface of an asteroid.
The gravitational field strength g of the asteroid at its surface is 2.7 × 10−3 m s−2.

(a) The radius r of the asteroid is 230 km. Calculate the mass of the
asteroid. [2]

Markscheme

2
2 −3 5
gr 2.7×10 ×(2.3×10 )
M = « G
= » −11
✔
6.67×10

18
2. 1 × 10 « kg » ✔

(b) The probe is carried to the asteroid on board a spacecraft.

Calculate the weight of the probe when close to the surface of

the asteroid. [1]

Markscheme

0.25−0.26 «N» ✔

(c.i) As the probe approaches the surface of the asteroid, a rocket

engine is fired to slow its descent. Explain how the engine
changes the speed of the probe. [3]

Markscheme
 ALTERNATIVE 1
the engine exerts an upward/opposing force «on the probe» ✔
«upward» force is greater than weight/grav force OR there is an upward
resultant/net force ✔
« by NII » this causes deceleration/reduction in speed ✔

ALTERNATIVE 2
the engine/probe exerts a force on the fuel molecules/gas ✔
«by NIII» an equal and opposite force acts on the engine/probe ✔
« by NII » this causes deceleration/reduction in speed ✔

ALTERNATIVE 3
engine causes change in momentum to fuel molecules/gas ✔
«by conservation of momentum» the probe has an equal and opposite
change in momentum ✔
this results in deceleration/reduction in speed ✔

Marks may only be awarded from one alternative.

Examiners should determine which alternative provides the most marks.
MP3 must have a reduction in speed not just a change in speed

(c.ii) A constant force of 12.0 N is exerted by the rocket engine.

Determine the time for which the rocket must fire to reduce the
speed of the probe from 0.64 m s−1 to zero. State your answer
to an appropriate number of significant figures. [4]

Markscheme

ALTERNATIVE 1

net force on probe=12−0.26=«11.7» «N» ✔

change in momentum=0.64×95=« 60.8 Ns » ✔

time=« 60.8/11.7»=5.2 to 5.3 « s » ✔

any answer to 2 s.f. ✔

 ALTERNATIVE 2

net force on probe=12−0.26=« 11.7 » «N» ✔

acceleration «=F/m »=11.7/95 «=0.12 » ✔

time=« 0.64/0.12 »=5.2 to 5.3 « s » ✔

any answer to 2 s.f. ✔

Allow ECF from 1b

(d) As the probe lands, a small stone resting on a rock on the

asteroid’s surface is projected horizontally from the top of the
rock. The horizontal speed of the stone is 34 m s−1 from a
height of 1.9 m above the surface of the asteroid.

Estimate the horizontal distance from the stone’s point of

projection along the line AB at which the stone lands. Ignore
the curvature of the asteroid. [2]

Markscheme

time to reach surface = «√ »37. 5 «s» ✔

2×1.9
−3
=
2.7×10

distance travelled horizontally=« 34 × 37.5 »=1300 «m» ✔

Award [2] for BCA
(Allow unrounded correct answers e.g. 1275)
Check units match power of ten e.g. 1.3 km scores both marks
Award [1 max] for 21 «m» (g taken as 9.81)
Watch for ECF from incorrect t.
43. [Maximum mark: 14] 23N.2.HL.TZ1.1
A space probe of mass 95 kg is designed to land on the surface of an asteroid.
The gravitational field strength g of the asteroid at its surface is 2.7 × 10−3 m s−2.

(a) The radius r of the asteroid is 230 km. Calculate the mass of the
asteroid. [2]

Markscheme

2
2 −3 5
gr 2.7×10 ×(2.3×10 )
M = « G
= » −11
✔
6.67×10

18
2. 1 × 10 « kg » ✔

(b) The probe is carried to the asteroid on board a spacecraft.

Calculate the weight of the probe when close to the surface of

the asteroid. [1]

Markscheme

0.25 – 0.26 «N» ✔

(c.i) As the probe approaches the surface of the asteroid, a rocket

engine is fired to slow its descent. Explain how the engine
changes the speed of the probe. [3]

Markscheme
 ALTERNATIVE 1
the engine exerts an upward/opposing force <<on the probe>> ✔
<<upward>> force is greater than weight/grav force OR there is an upward
resultant/net force ✔
« by NII » this causes deceleration/reduction in speed ✔
ALTERNATIVE 2
the engine/probe exerts a force on the fuel molecules/gas ✔
<<by NIII>> an equal and opposite force acts on the engine/probe ✔
« by NII » this causes deceleration/reduction in speed ✔
ALTERNATIVE 3
engine causes change in momentum to fuel molecules/gas ✔
« by conservation of momentum » the probe has an equal and opposite
change in momentum ✔
this results in deceleration/reduction in speed ✔

Marks may only be awarded from one alternative.

Examiners should determine which alternative provides the most marks.
MP3 must have a reduction in speed not just a change in speed

(c.ii) A constant force of 12.0 N is exerted by the rocket engine.

Determine the time for which the rocket must fire to reduce the
speed of the probe from 0.64 m s−1 to zero. State your answer
to an appropriate number of significant figures. [4]

Markscheme

ALTERNATIVE 1

net force on probe = 12−0.26 = « 11.7 » «N» ✔

change in momentum = 0.64 × 95 = « 60.8 Ns » ✔

time = « 60.8/11.7 » = 5.2 to 5.3 « s » ✔

any answer to 2 s.f. ✔

 ALTERNATIVE 2

net force on probe = 12 − 0.26 = « 11.7 » «N» ✔

acceleration « =F/m » = 11.7/95 «=0.12 » ✔

time = « 0.64/0.12 » = 5.2 to 5.3 « s » ✔

any answer to 2 s.f. ✔

Allow ECF from 1b

(d.i) Show that the escape speed v esc of the asteroid is given by

v esc = √2gr. [1]

Markscheme

)r« = √ 2gr» OR similar seen ✔

GM
v esc = √ 2( 2
r

Watch out for incorrect answers that equate forces

e.g. mv2/r = GMm/r2 and then include a factor of ½ to give the final expression.

(d.ii) Calculate the escape speed of the asteroid. [1]

Markscheme

35 «m s−1» ✔

(e) As the probe lands, a small stone resting on a rock on the

asteroid’s surface is projected horizontally from the top of the
 rock. The horizontal speed of the stone is 34 m s−1 from a
height of 1.9 m above the surface of the asteroid.

Estimate the horizontal distance from the stone’s point of [2]

projection along the line AB at which the stone lands. Ignore
the curvature of the asteroid.

Markscheme

time to reach surface = «√ »37. 5 «s» ✔

2×1.9
−3
=
2.7×10

distance travelled horizontally = «34 × 37.5» = 1300 «m» ✔

Check units match power of ten e.g. 1.3 km scores both marks
Award [1 max] for 21 <<m>> (g taken as 9.81)
Watch for ECF from incorrect t.
44. [Maximum mark: 10] 23N.2.HL.TZ1.7
Ceres is a dwarf planet in the asteroid belt. The following data are available.

Mean distance of Ceres from the Sun = 4.4 × 1011 m

Mean power output of the Sun = 3.8 × 1026 W

(a.i) Determine the mean temperature of Ceres assuming that it acts

as a black-body radiator. [3]

Markscheme

average intensity at Ceres orbit

26
3.8×10
)« = 156 W m »✔
−2
= ( 2
4×π×(4.4×10
11
)

156
average incident intensity= 4
=≪ 39 ≫ ✔

temperature «
39
= ( −8
) » = 160 ≪ K ≫ ✔
5.67×10

Allow ECF from MP1 and MP2

(a.ii) Ceres has a solid rocky core covered with solid ice. The mean
temperature is higher than your answer in (a)(i) because
radioactive nuclei in the centre of Ceres are decaying. Outline
how the energy from the radioactive decay reaches the surface. [2]

Markscheme

«kinetic» energy of decay products is converted to/transferred as thermal

energy ✔
«primarily» by conduction ✔

(b) At low temperatures such as the mean temperature of Ceres,

water undergoes a phase change directly from solid to gas.
(b.i) Compare the molecular conditions of the solid phase and the
gas phase at the same temperature. [3]

Markscheme

gases have no/weaker intermolecular forces/bonds <<than for solids>> ✔

gases larger intermolecular distances <<than for solids>> ✔
molecules in gases move freely <<but in solids do not>> ✔

<<same temperature so>> same Ek ✔

Accept reverse arguments

(b.ii) The maximum surface temperature of Ceres is −38 °C.

Observations show that significant quantities of water vapour
are released from the surface of Ceres every second when the
temperature is at this maximum. Calculate the mean kinetic
energy of a molecule of water vapour at this temperature. [1]

Markscheme

4.9×10−21 «J» ✔

(b.iii) The following data are available.

Radius of Ceres = 4.7 × 105 m

Mass of Ceres = 9.0 × 1020 kg
Show that the gravitational potential at the surface of Ceres is
about −105 J kg−1. [1]

Markscheme

−11 20
(6.67×10 ×9×10 )
GM
<<use of r
>> << - >> 5
4.7×10

OR
<< - >> 1.3×105 seen ✔

Award [1] for correct substitution

45. [Maximum mark: 14] 23N.2.HL.TZ2.1
A space probe of mass 95 kg is designed to land on the surface of an asteroid.
The gravitational field strength g of the asteroid at its surface is 2.7 × 10−3 m s−2.

(a) The radius r of the asteroid is 230 km. Calculate the mass of the
asteroid. [2]

Markscheme

2
2 −3 5
gr 2.7×10 ×(2.3×10 )
M = « G
= » −11
✔
6.67×10

18
2. 1 × 10 « kg » ✔

(b) The probe is carried to the asteroid on board a spacecraft.

Calculate the weight of the probe when close to the surface of

the asteroid. [1]

Markscheme

0.25 – 0.26 «N» ✔

(c.i) As the probe approaches the surface of the asteroid, a rocket

engine is fired to slow its descent. Explain how the engine
changes the speed of the probe. [3]

Markscheme
 ALTERNATIVE 1
the engine exerts an upward/opposing force <<on the probe>> ✔
<<upward>> force is greater than weight/grav force OR there is an upward
resultant/net force ✔
« by NII » this causes deceleration/reduction in speed ✔
ALTERNATIVE 2
the engine/probe exerts a force on the fuel molecules/gas ✔
<<by NIII>> an equal and opposite force acts on the engine/probe ✔
« by NII » this causes deceleration/reduction in speed ✔
ALTERNATIVE 3
engine causes change in momentum to fuel molecules/gas ✔
« by conservation of momentum » the probe has an equal and opposite
change in momentum ✔
this results in deceleration/reduction in speed ✔

Marks may only be awarded from one alternative.

Examiners should determine which alternative provides the most marks.
MP3 must have a reduction in speed not just a change in speed

(c.ii) A constant force of 12.0 N is exerted by the rocket engine.

Determine the time for which the rocket must fire to reduce the
speed of the probe from 0.64 m s−1 to zero. State your answer
to an appropriate number of significant figures. [4]

Markscheme

ALTERNATIVE 1

net force on probe = 12−0.26 = « 11.7 » «N» ✔

change in momentum = 0.64 × 95 = « 60.8 Ns » ✔

time = « 60.8/11.7 » = 5.2 to 5.3 « s » ✔

any answer to 2 s.f. ✔

 ALTERNATIVE 2

net force on probe = 12 − 0.26 = « 11.7 » «N» ✔

acceleration « =F/m » = 11.7/95 «=0.12 » ✔

time = « 0.64/0.12 » = 5.2 to 5.3 « s » ✔

any answer to 2 s.f. ✔

Allow ECF from 1b

(d.i) Show that the escape speed v esc of the asteroid is given by

v esc = √2gr. [1]

Markscheme

)r« = √ 2gr» OR similar seen ✔

GM
v esc = √ 2( 2
r

Watch out for incorrect answers that equate forces

e.g. mv2/r = GMm/r2 and then include a factor of ½ to give the final expression.

(d.ii) Calculate the escape speed of the asteroid. [1]

Markscheme

35 «m s−1» ✔

(e) As the probe lands, a small stone resting on a rock on the

asteroid’s surface is projected horizontally from the top of the
 rock. The horizontal speed of the stone is 34 m s−1 from a
height of 1.9 m above the surface of the asteroid.

Estimate the horizontal distance from the stone’s point of [2]

projection along the line AB at which the stone lands. Ignore
the curvature of the asteroid.

Markscheme

time to reach surface = «√ »37. 5 «s» ✔

2×1.9
−3
=
2.7×10

distance travelled horizontally = «34 × 37.5» = 1300 «m» ✔

Check units match power of ten e.g. 1.3 km scores both marks
Award [1 max] for 21 <<m>> (g taken as 9.81)
Watch for ECF from incorrect t.

© International Baccalaureate Organization, 2024