Model Exam Question Booklet

Separate Science

Physics Paper 1
This booklet is split into 3 parts.
Topics in the Paper:
Part 1
A selection of short response questions and Energy stores and
answers that are likely to come in the exam P1
transfers
paper. Spend time learning the answers to
these questions, for example you could P2 Thermal energy
produce flash cards. You should self quiz
yourself on these questions regularly! P3 Energy resources
Part 2
Selection of extended response questions (4
P4 Electric circuits
to 6 marks) that are likely to be on your paper Electricity in the
this year, either because they have not been P5
home
assessed in the last couple of years, or
because they come up most years in exams. Particle model of
P6
Prepare and practice your responses to these matter
questions. P7 Radioactivity
Part 3 Specific Heat
Required practical section. In this section you RP1
Capacity
will find step by step guidance for each
practical. This is followed by a page of short RP2 Thermal Insulators
response questions and answers to learn for
each of the practicals. There are also some RP3 Resistance of a Wire
extended response questions (4 to 6 marks).
Investigating I-V
RP4
Characteristics
RP5 Density

@SinclairEducation 1
 Part 1
Short Response
Questions

@SinclairEducation 2
P1: Energy Conservation Fold page here

1. What is a system? 1. Object or group of objects.

2. What happens in terms of energy when an 2. It gains gravitational potential energy and kinetic
object is projected upwards? energy decreases.
3. What happens in terms of energy when a 3. The kinetic energy is transferred to heat and
moving object hits an obstacle? sound and kinetic energy of the obstacle that was
hit.
4. What happens in terms of energy when an 4. Work is done by a force on an object. This work is
object is accelerated by a constant force? converted to the object's kinetic store.
5. What happens in terms of energy when a 5. The kinetic energy of the vehicle decreases while
vehicle is slowing down? energy is dissipated through heat and sound.
6. What happens in terms of energy when water is 6. Energy transfers from the electrical store of the
brought to the boil in an electric kettle? mains power supply to the thermal store of the
water.
7. What is the formula for kinetic energy? 7. Kinetic Energy = 0.5 x mass x (speed)2
8. What is the unit for kinetic energy? 8. Joules, J
9. What is the unit for mass? 9. Kilograms, Kg
10. What is the unit for speed? 10. Metres per second, m/s
11. What is the unit for elastic potential energy? 11. Joules, J
12. What is the unit for spring constant? 12. Newtons per metre, N/m
13. What is the unit for extension? 13. Metres, m
14. What is the formula for gravitational potential 14. GPE = mass x gravitational field strength x height
energy?
15. What is the unit for GPE? 15. Joules, J
16. What is the unit for gravitational field strength? 16. Newtons per kilogram, N/kg
17. What is the unit for height? 17. Metres, m
18. What is the definition of power? 18. The rate at which energy is transferred or the
rate at which work is done.
19. What formula would you use to calculate power 19. Power = Energy Transferred / Time
if you had a value for energy transferred?
20. What formula would you use to calculate power 20. Power = Work Done / Time
if you had a value for work done?
21. What is the unit for power? 21. Watts, W
22. What is the unit for energy transferred? 22. Joules, J
23. What is the unit for time? 23. Seconds, s
24. What is the unit for work done? 24. Joules, J
25. What is an energy transfer of 1 joule per second 25. 1 watt
equal to?

@SinclairEducation 3
P2: Energy Transfer Fold page here

1. What is specific heat capacity? 1. The amount of energy needed to raise the
temperature of one kilogram of a substance by
one degree Celsius.

2. What is the unit for change in thermal energy? 2. Joules (J)

3. What piece of equipment would you use to 3. Joulemeter

measure change in thermal energy?

4. What is the unit for mass? 4. Kilograms (kg)

5. What piece of equipment would you use to 5. Balance

measure mass?

6. What is the unit for temperature change? 6. °C

7. What piece of equipment would you use to 7. Thermometer

measure temperature change?

8. What factors affect the rate of cooling of a 8. The thickness and thermal conductivity of its
building? walls.

9. What is a conductor? 9. This is the process by which energy is transferred

through a material.

10. What materials are good conductors? 10. Metals

11. What is an insulator? 11. Materials that are poor conductors?

12. What materials are good insulators? 12. Non-metals and air

13. How do insulators reduce unwanted energy 13. Insulation which has a low thermal conductivity
loss? and so less energy is transferred by conduction.

14. What happens to energy that is wasted in a 14. It is dissipated into the environment in the form
home? of thermal energy.

@SinclairEducation 4
P3: Energy Resources Fold page here

1. What are the main energy resources available 1. Fossil fuels, nuclear, biofuel, wind,
for use on Earth? hydroelectricity, geothermal, tidal, sun and water
waves.
2. What are the three fossil fuels? 2. Coal, oil and natural gas.
3. What is renewable energy? 3. A resource that is replenished as it is used.
4. What is non-renewable energy? 4. A resource that is used faster than it can be
replenished. It will run out eventually.
5. What uses to we have for energy resources? 5. Transport, electricity generation and heating.
6. What are examples of renewable energy 6. Biofuel, wind, hydroelectricity, geothermal, tidal,
resources? wave and the sun.
7. What are examples of non-renewable energy 7. Coal, oil, natural gas and nuclear.
resources?
8. How is electricity generated through wind? 8. The wind has kinetic energy which turns the
blades on a wind turbine. The turbine turns and
this turns a turbine.
9. What are the advantages of wind turbines? 9. Renewable, conserves fossil fuels, no release of
pollutant gases, does not contribute to global
warming.
10. What are the disadvantages of wind turbines? 10. Noise pollution, visual pollution, kills birds, don’t
work when it’s not windy.
11. What are the advantages of tidal turbines? 11. Renewable, conserves fossil fuels, no release of
pollutant gases, does not contribute to global
warming.
12. What are the disadvantages of tidal turbines? 12. Noise pollution, visual pollution, kills fish, low
power output.
13. How is electricity generated through geothermal 13. Cold water is pumped into the ground and is
energy? heated by hot rocks. The water returns to the
surface as stem. The moving steam turns a
turbine which turns a generator.
14. What is geothermal energy? 14. Energy from the Earth’s core is used to heat
water.
15. What is nuclear energy? 15. Fission of uranium nuclei that heats water.
16. Gases from rotting plant material are burned to
16. What is the energy source biofuel? heat water.
17. Water in high level reservoir stores gravitational
17. How is electricity generated through potential energy. The water flows downhill and
hydroelectricity? has kinetic energy. The water turns a turbine
connected to a generator.
18. Renewable, conserves fossil fuels, no release of
18. What are the advantages of hydroelectricity? pollutant gases, does not contribute to global
warming, constant reliable power.
19. Noise pollution, visual pollution, kills fish, low
19. What are the disadvantages of hydroelectricity? power output.
20. Water is heated in a boiler which turns into
20. How is water heated to generate electricity in a steam. The steam turns a tribune which turns a
solar thermal power station? generator.
21. Produces no greenhouse gases, higher energy
21. What are the advantages of nuclear fuel? density in fuel and a longer operating life.
22. Produce radioactive waste, possibility of
22. What are the disadvantages of nuclear fuel? accidents, long start up time and high
decommissioning costs.

@SinclairEducation 5
P4: Electric Circuits Fold page here

1. What is the definition of electrical current? 1. Electric current is the rate of flow of charge.
2. What is the equation that links charge, current 2. Q = I × t
and time?
3. What is the unit for charge flow? 3. Coulombs, C
4. What is the unit for current? 4. Amperes, A
5. What Is the unit for time? 5. Seconds, s
6. Give the equation that links potential difference, 6. V=I×R
current and resistance.
7. What is the unit for potential difference? 7. Volts, V
8. What is the unit for resistance? 8. Ohms, Ω
9. What’s the difference between a series and a 9. A series circuit has only one path for the current
parallel circuit? to flow; a parallel circuit has more than one.
10. What does Ohm’s law say? 10. The current through an ohmic conductor (at a
constant temperature) is directly proportional to
the potential difference across the resistor.
11. What happens to the resistance of a filament 11. As the temperature increases, the resistance of a
lamp as the temperature increases? filament lamp also increases.
12. What happens to the resistance of a thermistor 12. The resistance decreases as the temperature
as it increases in temperature? increases.
13. What happens to the resistance of a LDR as the 13. The resistance decreases as the light intensity
light intensity increases? increases.
14. In what diode can the current flow through a 14. Current can only flow one way through a diode.
diode?
15. Name an application of an LDR. 15. In sensing circuits such as lights turning on when
dark
16. Name an application of a thermistor. 16. Thermostat
17. How does resistance add in series? 17. RTOT = R1 + R2
18. What happens to current in series/parallel 18. Current is the same everywhere in a series
circuits? circuit. Current splits in a parallel circuit.
19. What happens to potential difference in 19. Potential difference is the same on different
series/parallel circuits? paths of a parallel circuit; it splits across
components in a series circuit.
20. What happens to the total resistance of two 20. The total resistance of two resistors in parallel is
resistors in parallel? less than the resistance of the smallest resistor.
21. What do we use to measure potential 21. We use a voltmeter in parallel across a
difference/current. component and an ammeter in series.
22. When do certain insulating materials become 22. When they are rubbed against each other.
electrically charged?
23. What happens when two electrically charged 23. They exert a force on each other.
objects are brought together?
24. What happens when two objects are brought 24. They repel.
together with the same charge?
25. What happens when two objects of opposite 25. They attract.
charges are brought together?
26. Where is the electric field strongest? 26. Close to the charged object.
27. What happens to the electric field when you are 27. The field becomes weaker.
further away from the charged object?

@SinclairEducation 6
P5: Electricity in the
Home Fold page here

1. What is the frequency of mains electricity in the 1. 50 Hz

UK?
2. What is the voltage of mains electricity in the 2. 230V
UK?
3. What colour is the live wire covering? 3. Brown
4. What colour is the neutral wire covering? 4. Blue
5. What colour is the earth wire covering? 5. Green and yellow stripes.
6. What does the live wire do? 6. Carries the alternating potential different from
the supply.
7. What does the neutral wire do? 7. Completes the circuit
8. What does the earth wire do? 8. Safety wire to stop the appliance becoming live.
9. What is the potential difference between the 9. 230V
earth wire and live wire?
10. What is the potential difference of the earth 10. 0V
wire?
11. What is the potential differences of the neutral 11. 0V
wire?
12. When does the live wire carry the current? 12. When there is a fault.
13. What is the equation that links current, potential 13. Power = Potential Difference x Current
difference and power?
14. What is the equation that links current, power 14. Power = (Current)2 x Resistance
and resistance?
15. What is the symbol for power? 15. P
16. What is the unit for power? 16. Watts, W
17. What is the symbol for potential difference? 17. V
18. What is the unit for potential difference? 18. Volts, V
19. What is the symbol for current? 19. I
20. What is the unit for current? 20. Amperes, A
21. What is the symbol for resistance? 21. R
22. What is the unit for resistance? 22. Ohms, Ω
23. What does the amount of energy an appliance 23. The power of the appliance and how long it is
transfers depend on? switched on for.
24. When work done in a circuit? 24. When charge flows.
25. What is the equation that links energy 25. Energy Transferred = Power x Time
transferred, power and time?
26. What is the equation that links charge flow, 26. Energy Transferred = Charge Flow x Potential
energy transferred and potential difference? Difference
27. What is the unit for energy transferred? 27. Joules, J
28. What is the unit for time? 28. Seconds, s
29. What is the unit for charge flow? 29. Coulombs, C
30. What is the national grid? 30. A system of cables and transformers linking
power stations to consumers.
31. What do step up transformers do? 31. Increase the potential difference from the power
station to the transmission cables.
32. What do step down transformers do? 32. Decrease the potential difference for domestic
use.

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P6: Particles and Matter Fold page here

1. What is the equation for density? 1. ρ=m÷V

2. What are the units for density? 2. kg/m3
3. What are the units for mass? 3. kg
4. What are the units for volume? 4. m3
5. How are the particles in a solid arranged? 5. The particles are touching and vibrate around a
fixed pattern.
6. How are the particles in a liquid arranged? 6. Particles are touching but not in fixed positions.
They are free to flow around.
7. How are the particles in a gas arranged? 7. Particles are far apart and move around quickly
and randomly.
8. How are changes in state different to chemical 8. The material recovers its original properties if the
changes? change is reversed.
9. Which state of matter is most dense? 9. Solid.
10. What are the names of the five state changes? 10. Melting (solid → liquid), evaporating (liquid →
gas), freezing (liquid → solid), condensing (gas →
liquid), sublimating (solid → gas/gas → solid).
11. How do you measure the volume of a regular 11. Measure the length of the three sides and
solid. multiply together.
12. How do you measure the volume of an irregular 12. Place the irregular solid in water in a measuring
solid. cylinder. Measure how much the water level has
gone up by.
13. What is internal energy? 13. Internal energy is the total kinetic energy and
potential energy of all the particles that make up
a system.
14. What is the definition of specific heat capacity? 14. The energy needed to heat up 1kg of a material
by a temperature of 1°C.
15. What is the definition of latent heat? 15. The energy needed to change state of 1kg of a
substance without changing temperature.
16. Why doesn’t the temperature of a material 16. Energy goes into breaking/making bonds.
change as it’s changing state?
17. How do the molecules in a gas move? 17. In random motion.
18. What happens to the speed of particles in a gas 18. The speed of the particles increases as the gas is
as the gas is heated? heated.
19. What happens to pressure if the size of a 19. The pressure would increase as particles would
container is reduced? hit the walls of the container more often.
20. The specific latent heat of fusion gives what 20. From solid to liquid.
state change?
21. The specific latent heat of vaporisation gives 21. From liquid to gas.
what state change?
22. What is the equation to calculate energy change 22. ΔE = m × c × Δθ
from specific heat capacity?
23. What is the equation to calculate energy needed 23. E = m × L
for a state change?

@SinclairEducation 8
 Separate
P6: Particles and Matter Fold page here Science Only
1. What is the unit for pressure? 1. Pascals, Pa

2. What is the symbol for pressure? 2. P

3. What is the unit for volume? 3. Metres Cubed, m3

4. What is the symbol for volume? 4. V

5. What is work? 5. Transfer of energy by a force.

6. What does doing work on a gas do to 6. It increases the internal energy and temperature
temperature and internal temperature? of the gas.

Separate
P7: Radioactivity Fold page here
Science Only

1. Where does background radiation come from? 1. Rocks, cosmic rays from space, fallout from
nuclear weapons testing and nuclear accidents.
2. What may the level of background radiation and 2. Occupation and location.
radiation dose by affected by?
3. What is radiation dose measured in? 3. Sieverts
4. What is 1 sievert in millisieverts? 4. 1000 millisieverts
5. What uses do we have for nuclear radiation? 5. Exploration of internal organs and control or
destruction of unwanted tissue.
6. What is nuclear fission? 6. Splitting of a large and unstable nucleus.
7. When does nuclear fission occur? 7. When a neutron is absorbed.
8. What happens to the nucleus when undergoing 8. The nucleus splits into two smaller nuclei roughly
fission? equal in size and emits two or three neutrons
plus gamma rays. Energy is released.
9. What causes an explosion in a nuclear weapon? 9. Uncontrolled chain reaction.
10. What is nuclear fusion? 10. The joining of two light nuclei to form a heavier
nucleus. Some of the mass may be converted
into the energy of radiation.

@SinclairEducation 9
P7: Radioactivity Fold page here

1. What is the basic structure of an atom? 1. A positively charged nucleus composed of

protons and neutrons surrounded by negatively
charged electrons.
2. Where is most of the mass of an atom 2. Nucleus
concentrated?
3. How can the electron arrangements of the 3. The absorption of electromagnetic radiation
nucleus change? causes electrons to move further from the
nucleus. The emission of electromagnetic
radiation causes electrons to move closer.
4. Why do atoms have no overall change? 4. The number of electrons is equal to the number
of protons.
5. What is atomic number? 5. The number of protons in the nucleus.
6. What is the mass number? 6. The number of protons and neutrons in an atom.
7. What is the radius of an atom? 7. 0.1nm or 1x10-3m
8. What is the radius of a nucleus? 8. 1x10-14m
9. What is the mass of protons and neutrons? 9. 1
10. What is the mass of electrons? 10. Negligible
11. What are isotopes? 11. Atoms of the same element with different
numbers of neutrons.
12. How do atoms form positive ions? 12. They lose one or more electrons.
13. What model of the atom was developed 13. Plum pudding model.
following the discovery of the electron?
14. Describe the plum pudding model of the atom. 14. Ball of positive charge with negative electrons
embedded in it.
15. What was concluded from the alpha particle 15. The mass of the atom was concentrated at the
scattering experiment? centre and that the nucleus was charged.
16. What model replaced the plum pudding model? 16. Nuclear model.
17. How did Niels Bohr adapt the nuclear model? 17. He suggested that electrons orbit the nucleus at
specific distances.
18. What did the experimental work of James 18. The existence of neutrons in the nucleus.
Chadwick prove?
19. What is radioactive decay? 19. The random process by which the nucleus gives
out radiation to become stable..
20. What is activity? 20. The rate at which a source of unstable nuclei
decay.
21. What is the unit for activity? 21. Becquerel, Bq
22. What is count rate? 22. The number of decays recorded each second by a
detector
23. What is an alpha particle? 23. A helium nucleus which is two neutrons and two
protons.
24. What is a beta particle? 24. A high-speed electron ejected from the nucleus
as a neutron turns into a proton.
25. What is a gamma ray? 25. Electromagnetic radiation from the nucleus.
26. What is half life? 26. The time it takes for the number of nuclei of the
isotope in a sample to half.
27. What is contamination? 27. The unwanted presence of materials containing
radioactive atoms on other materials.
28. What is irradiation? 28. The process of exposing an object to nuclear
radiation. The irradiated object does not become
radioactive.

@SinclairEducation 10
 Part 2
Extended
Response
Questions

@SinclairEducation 11
 Topic P1 Energy Conservation

Qu Describe the energy transfer for a ____.

You could be asked this question for a range of scenarios including:

A falling object
A car driving uphill
A catapult
A pendulum
Info
To answer this question, you will need to do the following:
Identify the input energy
Identify the output energy
Identify the wasted energy
Describe the overall energy change

Top Tip If you are describing energy “wasted” as heat, make sure you say where it is
going – e.g., heating the surrounding air.

Describe the energy transfers for a falling object

1. For a falling object the input energy is gravitational potential energy. As
the object falls the gravitational potential energy decreases.
2. The gravitational potential energy is transferred into kinetic energy and
Model so as the object falls, and the gravitational potential energy decreases
Answer the kinetic energy of the object increases.
3. Some of the energy is wasted as heat to the surroundings due to air
resistance.
4. Overall, the gravitational potential energy is transferred into kinetic
energy.

1. Learn and practice the model answers above.

Practice 2. Prepare and learn model answers to describe the energy transfers for a
car driving uphill, a catapult and a pendulum.

@SinclairEducation 12
 Topic P2 Energy Transfer

1. Describe an experiment to find the specific heat capacity of a metal.

Qu 2. What are the control variables when finding specific heat capacity of a metal?
3. Explain why the metal should be wrapped in wool when finding SHC

At least one of these questions is likely to come up. The examiner is going to
Info
be looking for a clear answer written in a logical sequence.
Be careful that you use key words/phrases accurately (these are in bold in
Top Tip
your model answers below).
Describe an experiment the student could do to measure the specific heat
capacity of a metal.
Measure the mass of metal using a balance. Use an immersion heater to
heat the block and fully insulate the block by wrapping it in cotton wool.
Model Record the start temperature of the block and connect the heater to the
Answer power supply. Use an energy meter (joulemeter) to measure the energy
supplied to the block as it is warmed. Once you have finished warming the
block record the energy supplied and the change in temperature Now that
you have the mass, temperature change and energy transferred use these
values to calculate specific heat capacity.

What are the control variables when finding the specific heat capacity of a
metal?
Model The control variables when determining the specific heat capacity of a metal
Answer include the mass of the block, the size of the block and the material of the
block. Other control variables include the thickness and material of the
insulation as well as the starting temperature of the block, time the block is
heated for and the current through the heater.

Explain why the metal should be wrapped in wool when finding SHC
Model
The wool acts as an insulator and prevents the loss of heat. This would lead
Answer
to a much more accurate value for specific heat capacity. Without insulation
the specific heat capacity value that you would find would be bigger.

Practice 1. Learn and practice the model answers above.

@SinclairEducation 13
Topic P2 Thermal Energy

Calculating a value using the equation:

Qu Change in Thermal Energy= Mass x Specific Heat Capacity x Temperature Change

There is frequently a question in which you will need to use these formulas.
Marks vary between 3 and 6 marks depending on how much processing of
the information you need to do. If you need to use both formulas to answer
the question this will usually be worth 6 marks.

To answer this question, you will need to do the following:

Info 1. Check for any unit conversions you may need to do.
2. Write down the formula you will be using.
3. Substitute in the values.
4. Rearrange.
5. Do the calculation.
6. Round to the correct number of significant figures.
7. Add units.

Always write down the formula you are using, substitute numbers and then
Top Tip rearrange. Avoid writing a rearranged formula as its easy to make mistakes
and can lose you marks.

Calculate the change in thermal energy when a 500g potato with a specific
capacity of 3400 J/kg °C is heated from 20°C to 100°C.

500g = 0.5kg Check for unit conversions.

100-20 = 80°C Identify temperature change.

𝛥E= m x c x 𝛥θ Formula to be used.

Model 𝛥E= 0.5 x 3400 x 80 Substitute values.

Answer
- Rearrange.

𝛥E= 0.5 x 3400 x 80

Do the calculation
= 136,000

- Round to correct number of sig fig.

136,000J Answer with units

@SinclairEducation 14
 Topic P2 Thermal Energy

Practice using the formula for specific heat capacity by answering the
questions below:

1. The water distiller is filled with 5.0 kg of water at 20 °C The specific heat
capacity of water = 4 200 J/Kg °C. Calculate the energy needed to raise
the temperature of the water to 100 °C.
2. 18 000 J of energy was supplied to a 2 kg cylinder of steel by 18°C.
Calculate the specific heat capacity of steel.
Practice 3. Calculate the change in thermal energy when a 750g potato with a
specific capacity of 3400 J/kg °C is heated from 22°C to 100°C.
4. The mass of water in the pool is 5000 kg. The specific heat capacity of
water is 4200 J/kg°C. Calculate how much energy needs to be supplied
to increase the water temperature by 5°C and state the correct unit.
5. The air in a room is at a temperature of 12 °C. The house owner
switches the heating on until the temperature reaches 22 °C.
The amount of energy needed to raise the temperature of the air to 22
°C is 580 000 J. The mass of air in the room is 58 kg. Calculate the
specific heat capacity of air and give the unit.

@SinclairEducation 15
Topic P2 Thermal Energy

Qu Multistep equation using another equation alongside the equation:

Change in Thermal Energy= Mass x Specific Heat Capacity x Temperature Change

Multi step calculations for specific heat capacity may involve you using other
equations to calculate a change in thermal energy first. One possible equation
you could need to use includes:
Power = Energy Transferred/Time
If you have a question gives you a power and a time you can use this to
calculate energy transferred. You can then use this value for energy transferred
in the equation for specific heat capacity.
To answer this question, you will need to do the following:
1. Check for any unit conversions you may need to do.
Info 2. Identify the temperature change (you may need to calculate this)
3. Write down the 1st formula you will be using.
4. Substitute in the values.
5. Rearrange
6. Do the maths
7. Write down the 2nd formula you will be using.
8. Substitute in the values.
9. Rearrange
10. Do the maths
11. Round to the correct number of significant figures
12. Add units to the answer.
Calculate the SHC of water when a 2.6kW kettle heats 0.80kg of water from
18°C to 100°C over 120 seconds. Give your answer to 2 significant figures.
2.6kW = 2600W Check for unit conversions.
100-18 = 82°C Identify temperature change.
Power = Energy Transferred/Time 1st formula to be used.
2600 = Energy Transferred / 120 Substitute values.
2600 x 120 = Energy Transferred Rearrange.
Model Energy Transferred = 312,000 Do the calculation
Answer
𝛥E= m x c x 𝛥θ 2nd formula to be used.
312,000 = 0.8 x c x 82 Substitute values
312,000 = c x 65.6
Rearrange
312,000 / 65.5 = c
4,763.358778626 Do the calculation
4,800 Round to correct number of sig fig.
4800 J/Kg °C Answer with units

@SinclairEducation 16
 Topic P2 Thermal Energy

Practice using the formula for specific heat capacity by answering the
questions below:

1. The water distiller is filled with 5.0 kg of water at 20 °C The specific heat
capacity of water = 4 200 J/Kg °C. Calculate the energy needed to raise
the temperature of the water to 100 °C.
2. 18 000 J of energy was supplied to a 2 kg cylinder of steel by 18°C.
Calculate the specific heat capacity of steel.
Practice 3. Calculate the change in thermal energy when a 750g potato with a
specific capacity of 3400 J/kg °C is heated from 22°C to 100°C.
4. The mass of water in the pool is 5000 kg. The specific heat capacity of
water is 4200 J/kg°C. Calculate how much energy needs to be supplied
to increase the water temperature by 5°C and state the correct unit.
5. The air in a room is at a temperature of 12 °C. The house owner
switches the heating on until the temperature reaches 22 °C.
The amount of energy needed to raise the temperature of the air to 22
°C is 580 000 J. The mass of air in the room is 58 kg. Calculate the
specific heat capacity of air and give the unit.

Practice using the formula for both power and specific heat capacity by
answering the questions below:

1. The SHC of water is 4800J/ kg °C. Calculate the time it will take to heat
0.62kg of water from 21°C to 100°C with a 2.5kW kettle. Give your
answer to 2 significant figures.
2. The SHC of water is 4800J/ kg °C. Calculate the time it will take to heat
Multi 450g of water from 18°C to 100°C with a 2.5kW kettle. Give your answer
Step to 2 significant figures.
Practice 3. The coffee machine heats water from 20 °C to 90 °C. The power output
of the coffee machine is 2.53 kW. The specific heat capacity of water is
4200 J/kg °C. Calculate the mass of water that the coffee machine can
heat in 14 seconds.
4. The coffee machine heats water from 19 °C to 90 °C. The power output
of the coffee machine is 2.53 kW. The specific heat capacity of water is
4200 J/kg °C. Calculate the mass of water that the coffee machine can
heat in 32 seconds.

@SinclairEducation 17
 Topic P3 Energy Resources

Qu Evaluate the use of _________ to generate electricity.

You could be asked to evaluate any of the energy resources that you learned
about in the topic including including fossil fuels, nuclear, biofuels, wind,
solar, hydroelectric, geothermal, wave and tidal.

Info To answer this question, you need to:

1. Describe the process used to generate electricity for the energy
resource in one clear sentence.
2. Describe the advantages.
3. Describe the disadvantages.

When discussing the advantages and disadvantages consider the reliability of

Top Tip the energy resource, if it is renewable or not as well as its impact on the
environment

Evaluate the use of fossil fuels to generate electricity.

1. In a fossil fuel power station, a fuel is burned, this turns water into
steam which turns a turbine to generate electricity.
Model 2. The advantages of a fossil fuel power station include that is has a high
Answer energy output and it is a reliable energy source.
3. The disadvantages of using fossil fuels include that it uses a non-
renewable energy resource, and it produces carbon dioxide which is a
greenhouse gas.

1. Learn and practice the model answer above.

2. Evaluate the use of nuclear power stations.
Practice 3. Evaluate the use of wind turbines.
4. Evaluate the use of solar energy.
5. Evaluate the use of hydroelectric.

@SinclairEducation 18
Topic P4 Electric Circuits

Calculating a value using the equations:

Qu
Charge Flow = Current × Time OR P.D= Current × Resistance
There is frequently a question in which you will need to use these formulas.
Marks vary between 3 and 6 marks depending on how much processing of
the information you need to do. If you need to use both formulas to answer
the question this will usually be worth 6 marks.

To answer this question, you will need to do the following:

Info 1. Check for any unit conversions you may need to do.
2. Write down the formula you will be using.
3. Substitute in the values.
4. Rearrange.
5. Do the calculation.
6. Round to the correct number of significant figures.
7. Add units.

Always write down the formula you are using, substitute numbers and then
Top Tip rearrange. Avoid writing a rearranged formula as its easy to make mistakes
and can lose you marks.

Calculate the resistance when there is a potential difference of 3.22 V and a

current of 2.18 A

- Check for unit conversions.

P.D= Current × Resistance Formula to be used.

3.22 = 2.18 x Resistance Substitute values.

Model
Answer
3.22 / 2.18 = Resistance Rearrange.

1.4770642202 = Resistance Do the calculation

1.48 Round to correct number of sig fig.

1.48Ω Answer with units

@SinclairEducation 19
 Topic P4 Electric Circuits

Practice using the formulas for charge flow and potential difference by
answering the questions below:

1. A set of lights consists of 20 lamps connected in series to the 230 V

mains electricity supply. When the lights are switched on and working
correctly, the current through each lamp is 0.25 A. Calculate the charge
passing through one of the lamps in 5 minutes.
2. A 1.7A bulb works at normal brightness for 30 seconds before it is
Practice switched off. Calculate the charge that flows through the bulb in the 30
seconds before it is switched off. Give the unit.
3. The current in the wire was 0.50 A. The mean potential difference
across the wire was 0.32 V. Calculate the resistance.
4. Calculate the charge flow when there is a current of 0.50 A in the wire
for 17 s.
5. Determine the resistance of the lamp when the current in the lamp is
0.22 A and the potential difference is 5V.

@SinclairEducation 20
 Topic P4 Electric Circuits

Qu Explain why _________ becomes charged.

A common question that comes up to assess your knowledge around static

electricity is to give a scenario involving friction, such as socks on a carpet,
and ask you why an object becomes charged.

Examples of questions in the past include:

• A nylon fleece being taken off
Info
• Socks on carpet
• A nylon rod and cloth

To answer this question, you will need to do the following:

Identify that there is rubbing/friction
Identify that electrons have moved from one object to another causing the
object to become charged.

Top Tip Key words to use include friction and electron transfer.

A nylon fleece is pulled over a student’s head as they take it off. He is given
a small electric shock. Explain why.
Model When the nylon fleece has been worn and as it has been taken off it has
Answer rubbed against another layer of material. There has been friction. Electrons
have moved from one material to another causing the objects to become
charged.

1. Learn and practice the model answers above.

Practice 2. Prepare and learn model answers to explain what will happen when
socks rub on carpet and when a nylon rod is rubbed with a cloth.

@SinclairEducation 21
 Topic P5 Electricity in the Home

1. Explain the difference between current supplied by mains and by a battery.

Qu 2. Explain why touching the live wire of an appliance is dangerous.
3. Explain why step-up transformed are used in the National Grid.
At least one of these questions is likely to come up. The examiner is going to
Info
be looking for a clear answer written in a logical sequence.
Be careful that you use key words/phrases accurately (these are in bold in
Top Tip
your model answers below).

Explain the differences between the current supplied by the mains supply
Model and the current supplied by a battery.
Answer A battery supplies a direct current which flows in one direction only while
the mains supply supplies an alternating current which is constantly
changing direction.

Touching the live wire of an appliance is dangerous when the appliance is

Model connected to the mains electricity supply. Explain why.
Answer The potential of a live wire is 230V, while a person’s potential is 0V. This
means that there is a large potential difference between the wire and the
person and so the current passes through the person’s body.

Explain why step-up transformers are used in the National Grid

Model To increase the voltage across the cables and to decrease the current
Answer through the cables. This reduces energy loss in the cables and increases the
efficiency of transmission.

Practice 1. Learn and practice the model answers above.

@SinclairEducation 22
Topic P5 Electricity in the Home

Calculating a value using the equations:

Qu Energy Transferred = Power x Time OR Energy Transferred = Charge Flow x P..D
There is frequently a question in which you will need to use these formulas.
Marks vary between 3 and 6 marks depending on how much processing of
the information you need to do. If you need to use both formulas to answer
the question this will usually be worth 6 marks.

To answer this question, you will need to do the following:

Info 1. Check for any unit conversions you may need to do.
2. Write down the formula you will be using.
3. Substitute in the values.
4. Rearrange.
5. Do the calculation.
6. Round to the correct number of significant figures.
7. Add units.

Always write down the formula you are using, substitute numbers and then
Top Tip rearrange. Avoid writing a rearranged formula as its easy to make mistakes
and can lose you marks.

Calculate the power when 1.2kJ is transferred in a minute.

1.2kJ = 1200J
Check for unit conversions.
1 minute = 60 seconds

Energy Transferred = Power x Time Formula to be used.

1200 = Power x 60 Substitute values.

Model
Answer 1200 / 60 = Power Rearrange.

Power = 20 Do the calculation

- Round to correct number of sig fig.

20W Answer with units

@SinclairEducation 23
Topic P5 Electricity in the Home

Qu Calculating a value using the equations:

Energy Transferred = Power x Time AND Energy Transferred = Charge Flow x P..D

Sometimes you can be asked to calculate a value that would require you to
use two equations. If you need to use both formulas to answer the question
this will usually be worth 6 marks. In these examples we are going to be
looking at using the 2 equations for energy transferred however you could
need to use lots of different equations that are on your data sheet.

To answer this question, you will need to do the following:

1. Check for any unit conversions you may need to do.
2. Write down the 1st formula you will be using.
Info 3. Substitute in the values.
4. Rearrange
5. Do the maths
6. Write down the 2nd formula you will be using.
7. Substitute in the values.
8. Rearrange
9. Do the maths
10. Round to the correct number of significant figures
11. Add units to the answer.

Calculate the potential difference when a 2.5kW kettle that has a charge
flow of 1200C is turned on for 120 seconds.
2.5kW = 2500W Check for unit conversions.
Energy Transferred = Power x Time 1st formula to be used.
Energy Transferred = 2300 x 120 Substitute values.
- Rearrange.
Model Energy Transferred = 276,000 Do the calculation
Answer Energy Transferred = Charge x P..D 2nd formula to be used.
276,000 = 1200 x P.D Substitute values
276,000 / 1200 = P.D Rearrange
Potential Difference = 230 Do the calculation
- Round to correct number of sig fig.
230V Answer with units

@SinclairEducation 24
 Topic P5 Electricity in the Home

Practice using the formulas for charge flow and potential difference by
answering the questions below:

1. Batteries provide a potential difference of 36V and the total charge

stored in the batteries is 670,000C. Calculate the maximum energy that
could have been transferred from the batteries.
2. An electric bike has a battery with a potential difference of 36V and
during the ride 28,000C of charge is transferred. Calculate the energy
transferred by the battery in kilojoules.
Practice 3. A heater has a power of 65W. Calculate the energy transferred by the
heater in 400s.
4. A 1500W heater is turned on for 5 hours. Calculate the energy
transferred in this time in kJ.
5. A wind turbine supplies a power output of 9000kW for 9 seconds.
Calculate the energy transferred by the wind turbine in kJ.
6. An electric bike has a motor that transfers 1800J of energy over 15
seconds. Calculate the power of the bikes motor.

Practice using the formulas as part of a multistep question by answering the

questions below. Some of the questions may need you to use other formulas
(such as the ones for power):

1. Calculate the charge flow for when a 12V bulb is turned on for 25
seconds and has 25W of power. ( 5 marks)
Multi
2. Calculate the charge flow for when a 12V bulb is turned on for 1 minute
Step
and has 25W of power. ( 5 marks)
Practice
3. When the charger is connected to the battery, the potential difference
across the battery is 15.0 V. The total energy stored when the battery is
fully charged is 0.81 MJ. The average current used to charge the battery
is 3.00 A. Calculate the time taken to fully charge the battery.
4. Calculate the potential difference when a 0.8W RAIO that has a charge
flow of 5520C is turned on for 10 minutes.

@SinclairEducation 25
 Topic P6 Particles and Matter

Qu Identify and explain the properties of _________________

You could be asked this question for solids, liquids and gases. To answer this
question, you need to:
1. Describe its shape and if it can flow
Info 2. Link the state of matters shape and ability to flow to the forces of
attraction between the particles.
3. Describe its density and if it can be squashed or compressed.
4. Link the density and ability to be compressed of the state of matter to
the closeness of the particles.

Top Tip Link the properties of the states of matter to the arrangement of particles.

Identify and explain the properties of a gas.

1. A gas can flow and will completely fill a container that they are in.
Model 2. This is because there are very little forces of attraction between the
Answer molecules and so they are able to move freely.
3. A gas has a very low density and can be squashed and compressed.
4. This is because the particles are very far apart and so there is lots of space
between them.

1. Learn and practice the model answer above.

Practice 2. Prepare and learn model answers to identify and explain the properties
of solids and gases.

@SinclairEducation 26
 Topic P7 Radioactivity

Explain how the properties of ____ radiation affect the level of hazard at
Qu
different distances.

You could be asked this question alpha, beta or gamma radiation. To answer
this question, you need to:
1. Describe how penetrating the radiation is
Info 2. Describe the range of radiation.
3. Describe the ionising power of radiation.
4. Describe the risk at a short range and give a reason why
5. Describe the risk at a long range and give a reason why

The examiner may not use the key terms alpha, beta or gamma but use the
symbols 𝛼 ,β, 𝛾 watch out for this.
Top Tip
Be clear in your work how far the radiation can travel and what materials it is
unable to penetrate.

Explain how the properties of alpha radiation affect the level of hazard at
different distances.
1. Alpha radiation is the least penetrating and is unable to pass through a
sheet of paper.
Model 2. It also has the least range in air and can only travel 5cm through the air.
Answer 3. Alpha radiation is the most ionising.
4. At a short range alpha radiation is very dangerous because of how
ionising it is.
5. At a long range alpha radiation is not dangerous because it does not
have a long range.

1. Learn and practice the model answer above.

Practice 2. Prepare and learn model answers to explain how dangerous beta and
gamma radiation are at different distances.

@SinclairEducation 27
 Part 3
Required
Practical's

@SinclairEducation 28
 RP1 Specific Heat Capacity

1
Measure and record the
mass of the metal block

2
Set up the equipment as shown in the diagram below.

3
Record the start temperature, turn the power pack on and start the timer.

4
Record the temperature and energy transferred after 10 minutes.

5
Calculate the temperature change.

6
Use the mass, temperature change and energy transferred to calculate specific
heat capacity.
@SinclairEducation 29
RP1: Specific Heat Capacity Fold page here

1. What piece of equipment do you use to measure 1. Balance

mass?

2. What piece of equipment do you use to measure 2. Thermometer

temperature?

3. What piece of equipment do you use to make the 3. Joulemeter

energy transferred?

4. What piece of equipment do you use to heat a 4. Heater

metal block?

5. What piece of equipment do you use to measure 5. Stopwatch

time?

6. What unit is energy transferred measured in? 6. Joules

7. What unit is temperature measured in? 7. °C

8. What unit is mass measured in? 8. Kilograms

9. Why may the result you obtain for specific heat 9. Heat loss, turned off power supply too early,
capacity be different to the true value? incorrectly measured mass of substance, incorrectly
measured temperature, incorrectly measured energy
transferred.

10. Why should the material the SHC is being 10. Prevents heat loss and so the specific heat capacity
determined for be insulated? will be more accurate.

11. When determining SHC of a material what variables 11. Mass of the block, dimensions of the block, material
should be controlled? of the block, current through heater, thickness of
insulation, material of insulation, starting
temperature and time interval.

12. What is specific heat capacity? 12. The amount of energy required to raise the
temperature of one kilogram of the substance by one
degree Celsius.

13. What could be used to insulate the metal block? 13. Bubble wrap, cotton wool.

14. What measurements do you need when calculating 14. Mass, temperature change, energy supplied.
specific heat capacity?

15. What piece of equipment do we use as a power 15. Powerpack

supply when determining SHC?

16. What voltage should a powerpack be set to when 16. 12V

determining SHC?

17. What are the possible risks when using the 17. Burns.
heater?

@SinclairEducation 30
 Topic RP1 Specific Heat Capacity

Qu Explain how to determine the specific heat capacity of _________.

You could be asked this question for different metals and liquids. Some that
have come up in the past include:
• Copper Block
• Oil

Info To answer this question, you will need to do the following:

1. Describe how to set up equipment.
2. Identify the measurements you will make
3. Identify control variables.
4. Describe how you will use your results.

Top Tip Use the formula for specific heat capacity on the data sheet you have been
given for your writing frame.

Explain how to determine the specific heat capacity of an iron block.

1. Measure the mass of the block by using a balance.
2. Add a heater to the block and connect this to a powerpack that is
connected to a joulemeter.
3. Add a thermometer and record the start temperature.
Model 4. Turn the powerpack on.
Answer 5. After 10 minutes turn the powerpack off, record the energy transferred
and the temperature.
6. Calculate specific heat capacity of the block using formula change in
thermal energy = mass × specific heat capacity × temperature change
7. Control the material and thickness of the insulation wrapped around
the block.

1. Learn and practice the model answer above.

Practice 2. Prepare and learn model answers to explain how to determine the
specific heat capacity of a copper block and a beaker of oil.

@SinclairEducation 31
 Topic RP1 Specific Heat Capacity

Describe an experiment to find the specific heat capacity of a metal.

Qu What are the control variables when finding specific heat capacity of a metal?
Explain why the metal should be wrapped in wool when finding SHC
At least one of these questions is likely to come up. The examiner is going to
Info
be looking for a clear answer written in a logical sequence.
Be careful that you use key words/phrases accurately (these are in bold in
Top Tip
your model answers below).
Describe an experiment the student could do to measure the specific heat
capacity of a metal.
Measure the mass of metal using a balance. Use an immersion heater to
heat the block and fully insulate the block by wrapping it in cotton wool.
Model Record the start temperature of the block and connect the heater to the
Answer power supply. Use an energy meter (joulemeter) to measure the energy
supplied to the block as it is warmed. Once you have finished warming the
block record the energy supplied and the change in temperature Now that
you have the mass, temperature change and energy transferred use these
values to calculate specific heat capacity.

What are the control variables when finding the specific heat capacity of a
metal?

Model The control variables when determining the specific heat capacity of a metal
Answer include the mass of the block, the size of the block and the material of the
block. Other control variables include the thickness and material of the
insulation as well as the starting temperature of the block, time the block is
heated for and the current through the heater.

Explain why the metal should be wrapped in wool when finding SHC

Model The wool acts as an insulator and prevents the loss of heat. This would lead
Answer to a much more accurate value for specific heat capacity. Without insulation
the specific heat capacity value that you would find would be bigger.

Practice 1. Learn and practice the model answers above.

@SinclairEducation 32
 RP2 Investigating Thermal Insulators

Testing the Effectiveness of Materials As Insulators

1 2
Boil water in a kettle and add Place this beaker into a larger
80cm3 of this water to a 100cm3 beaker with a lid Place a
beaker. thermometer through the lid.

3
Record the start temperature.

4 5
Start the timer and record the Repeat steps 1-4 with different
temperature at 5, 10 , 15 and 20 materials placed in the gap
minutes. between the smaller and larger
beaker.

6
Plot a cooling curve of
temperature against time.

@SinclairEducation 33
 RP2 Investigating Thermal Insulators

Investigating Factors That Affect Thermal Insulation

Properties of a Material
1 2
Boil water in a kettle and add Place a thermometer through
200cm3 of this water to a a cardboard lid.
250cm3 beaker.

3
Record the start temperature.

4 5
Start the timer and record the Repeat steps 1-4 with different
temperature at 5, 10 , 15 and 20 number of layers of insulation
minutes. held in place with elastic
bands.

6
Plot a cooling curve of
temperature against time.

@SinclairEducation 34
RP2: Thermal Insulators Fold page here

1. When investigating thermal insulators what 1. Start temperature of water, volume of test liquid,
should be controlled? material of lid, thickness of lid.

2. What would you use to heat the water up? 2. Kettle

3. What would you use to measure temperature? 3. Thermometer

4. What would you use to measure time? 4. Stopwatch

5. What unit would time be recorded in? 5. Minutes

6. What graph would you draw to show your 6. Temperature against time.
results?

7. When plotting temperature against time what 7. Time

would go on the x-axis?

8. When plotting temperature against time what 8. Temperature

would go on the y-axis?

9. What is the unit for temperature? 9. °C

10. How could you hold the layers of insulation in 10. Elastic bands
place?

11. What could you use that would give a more 11. Digital thermometer
precise temperature than a glass thermometer?

12. What are the advantages of using a digital 12. Higher resolution, less likely to misread results.
thermometer?

13. How should using thicker insulation effect 13. Water should cool slower.
results?

14. Why are cotton wool and fleece good 14. They have pockets of air.
insulators?

15. Why should you use a beaker with no insulation 15. As a control
in your investigation?

16. How could you determine the best insulating 16. Look for the material in which the temperature
material from your results? dropped the least over a certain time.

17. What is the risk of using boiling water? 17. Burns

@SinclairEducation 35
 Topic RP2 Investigating Thermal Insulators

Qu Explain how to determine the best insulating material for a ______

You could be asked this question for some different scenarios. Some that
have come up in the past include:
• The best insulating material for a jacket.
• The best insulating material for a sleeping bag.
Info
To answer this question, you will need to do the following:
1. Describe how to set up equipment.
2. Identify the measurements you will make
3. Identify control variables.
4. Describe how you will use your results.

When discussing what you will do with your results this includes a
Top Tip description of the graph you will plot AND how you will then use this graph
to form a conclusion.

Explain how to determine the best insulating material for a sleeping bag.
1. Boil a kettle and add 80cm3 into a 100cm3 beaker.
2. Place this beaker in a larger beaker that has a lid.
3. Place the thermometer through the lid into the water.
4. Record the start temperature.
Model 5. Start a stopwatch and record the temperature every 5 minutes for 20
Answer minutes.
6. Plot a graph of time against temperature.
7. Repeat for some different materials in the space between the 2 beakers.
Test materials include fleece, cotton padding, wool, duck feathers.
8. Identify the material that had the smallest drop in temperature over the
10 minutes.
1. Learn and practice the model answer above.
2. Prepare and learn a model answer to explain how you will determine
Practice the best material for a jacket.
3. Prepare and learn a model answer to explain how to determine what
happens to temperature change when insulation is thicker.

@SinclairEducation 36
 RP3 Investigating Resistance of a Wire

Investigating the Relationship Between Length of Wire

and Resistance 1
Set up equipment as shown in the diagram.

2
Place the crocodile clips 10cm apart on the length of wire.

3.
Record the current and voltage.

4.
Calculate resistance using the formula:
Resistance = Potential Difference / Current

5.
Repeat for different lengths of wire at 10cm intervals.

6.
Plot a graph of resistance against length.

A
Wire connected
withWire
crocodile
clips

V
@SinclairEducation 37
RP3: Resistance of a Wire Fold page here

1. What unit is current measured in? 1. Amps (A)

2. What unit is potential difference measured in? 2. Volts (V)

3. Which piece of equipment is used to measure 3. Ammeter

current?

4. What piece of equipment is used to measure 4. Voltmeter

potential difference?

5. How should an ammeter be connected to 5. In series

determine the current through a component?

6. How should an voltameter be connected to 6. In parallel

determine the potential difference across a
component?

7. How could you tell if an ammeter or voltameter 7. They would show a reading when not connected in a
have zero error. circuit.

8. When investigating length of wire and resistance 8. Temperature, material of wire, thickness of wire.
what should be controlled?

9. How could temperature be controlled when 9. Turn the power supply off between readings to
investigating resistance? prevent components warming up.

10. What is the equation that links current, potential 10. Resistance = Potential Difference/Current
difference and resistance?

11. What is the unit for resistance? 11. Ohms (Ω)

12. How would you know if your results were precise? 12. Measurements would be closely grouped together.

13. What are the hazards in the experiment? 13. The high current can cause the wire to get hot and
melt. It can also cause burns.

14. What is the dependent variable in this 14. The resistance of the wire.
investigation?

15. What is the independent variable in this 15. Length of wire

investigation?

16. What are the measurements taken in the 16. The current and potential difference.
investigation?

17. Why should the variable resistor be adjusted each 17. Changes the resistance of the wire so that current
time the length of wire is changed? remains the same so that the temperature of the
wire is kept constant.

18. What effect does temperature have on resistance of 18. Increases resistance.
a wire?

19. What effect would a thicker wire have on 19. Resistance would decrease.
resistance?

@SinclairEducation 38
 Topic RP3 Resistance of a Wire
Explain how to use circuit diagram to determine how a change in ______
Qu
affects the resistance of a wire

You could be asked this question for length, temperature, thickness and
material of wire. To answer this question, you need to:

1. Describe the circuit that you would set up. This can be written or a
diagram.
2. Identify the independent variable – what you will be changing.
Info 3. Select 5 different values for this variable.
4. Describe what you will do.
5. Identify what you will measure
6. Describe how you will calculate resistance
7. State that you will repeat this for your different values
8. State that you will construct a graph of resistance against your
independent variable

Make sure your diagram has an ammeter and a voltmeter. Remember your
ammeter should be in series and the voltmeter should be in parallel across
the component you are investigating.
Top Tip
When selecting your values to test for the independent variable select 5 at
regular intervals.
Explain how to use circuit diagram to determine how a change in
temperature affects the resistance of a wire.
1. Set up the equipment as shown in the diagram.
2. Length of wire will be the independent variable.
3. I will investigate 10cm, 20cm, 30cm,40cm and
Model 50cm.
4. I will measure the length with a ruler, connect the
Answer wire with crocodile clips and turn the power on.
5. Record current and voltage
6. Calculate resistance by dividing voltage by current
7. Repeat for the different lengths of wire.
8. Construct a graph of resistance against length of
wire.

1. Learn and practice the model answer above.

Practice 2. Prepare and learn model answers to explain how you would investigate
how temperature, material and thickness of wire affect resistance.

@SinclairEducation 39
 RP4 Investigating IV Characteristics

Investigating IV Characteristics of a Resistor

1
Set up equipment as
shown in the diagram.
2
Record the current and
voltage.

3
Adjust the variable resistor
4 more times recording the
new current and voltage
each time.
4
Swap the leads on the
battery so that the reading
on the ammeter and
voltmeter is negative.
5
Record the current and
voltage 5 times adjusting
the variable resistor
between each reading.

6
Plot a graph of current
against potential
difference.

@SinclairEducation 40
 RP4 Investigating IV Characteristics

Investigating IV Characteristics of a Lamp

1
Set up equipment as
shown in the diagram.
2
Record the current and
voltage.

3
Adjust the variable resistor
4 more times recording the
new current and voltage
each time.
4
Swap the leads on the
battery so that the reading
on the ammeter and
voltmeter is negative.
5
Record the current and
voltage 5 times adjusting
the variable resistor
between each reading.

6
Plot a graph of current
against potential
difference.

@SinclairEducation 41
 RP4 Investigating IV Characteristics

Investigating IV Characteristics of a Diode

1
Set up equipment as
shown in the diagram with
a battery no higher than
5V.
2
Record the current and
voltage.

3
Adjust the variable resistor
4 more times recording the
new current and voltage
each time.
4
Swap the leads on the
battery so that the reading
on the ammeter and
voltmeter is negative.
5
Record the current and
voltage 5 times adjusting
the variable resistor
between each reading.

6
Plot a graph of current
against potential
difference.

@SinclairEducation 42
RP4: Investigating IV Fold page here
Characteristics
1. What unit is current measured in? 1. Amps (A)

2. What unit is potential difference measured in? 2. Volts (V)

3. Which piece of equipment is used to measure 3. Ammeter

current?

4. What piece of equipment is used to measure 4. Voltmeter

potential difference?

5. How should an ammeter be connected to 5. In series

determine the current through a component?

6. How should an voltameter be connected to 6. In parallel

determine the potential difference across a
component?

7. What piece of equipment should you use to 7. Milliammeter

measure current when investigating the IV
characteristics of a diode?

8. What should the potential difference of the power 8. 5V or less

supply be when investigating IV characteristics of a
diode?

9. How do you get negative current and voltage 9. Swap the leads connecting the power supply.
readings?

10. Why is a variable resistor used when investigating IV 10. To change the resistance in the circuit so that more
characteristics? current and voltage pairs can be determined.

11. How many positive pairs of readings should you 11. 5

collect?

12. How many negative pairs of readings should you 12. 5

collect?

13. What do you do with your currents and voltages 13. Plot a graph of current against potential difference
that have been recorded?

14. When plotting a graph of current against potential 14. Potential Difference
difference which goes on the X-axis?

15. When plotting a graph of current against potential 15. Current

difference which goes on the Y-axis?

16. How could you tell if an ammeter or voltameter 16. They would show a reading when not connected in a
have zero error. circuit.

17. When investigating IV characteristics what should 17. Temperature

be controlled?

18. How could temperature be controlled when 18. Turn the power supply off between readings to
investigating IV characteristics? prevent components warming up.

@SinclairEducation 43
 Topic RP4 Investigating IV Characteristics

Qu Explain how to investigate the IV characteristics of a __________

You could be asked this question for different components. Some that have
come up in the past include:
• Resistor
• Filament Lamp
• Diode
Info
To answer this question, you will need to do the following:
1. Draw a diagram of how to set up equipment.
2. Identify the readings you will collect.
3. Describe what you will do with results.

Be careful drawing your components. Draw the ammeter in series while a

Top Tip
voltmeter should be connected in parallel.

Explain how to investigate the IV characteristics of a __________

1. Set up the equipment as shown in the diagram.

2. Record the current and voltage.
Model 3. Adjust the variable resistor.
Answer 4. Record the new current and voltage.
5. Repeat this until you have 5 pairs of readings.
6. Swap the connections to the battery.
7. Repeat steps 3-4 until you have 5 negative pairs or readings.
8. Draw a graph of current against potential difference.

1. Learn and practice the model answer above.

Practice 2. Prepare and learn model answers to explain how you would investigate
the IV characteristics of diodes and filament lamps.

@SinclairEducation 44
 RP5 Determining Density
Determining Density of a Regularly Shaped Object
Measure the length height and
width of the object.
Finding Volume
Multiply these values together to
calculate volume

Measure the mass of the object

Finding Mass
using a balance.

Determining Divide the mass by the volume to

Density calculate density. Density = Mass / Volume

Determining Density of an Irregularly Shaped Object

Fill a displacement can with water.

Place an empty measuring cylinder

under the spout.
Finding Volume
Add the object to the can.

Measure and record the volume

displaced into the measuring
cylinder.

Measure the mass of the object

Finding Mass
using a balance.

Determining Divide the mass by the volume to

Density calculate density. Density = Mass / Volume

@SinclairEducation 45
RP5: Determining Density Fold page here

1. What piece of equipment can be used to measure 1. Ruler, micrometre or Vernier callipers
the dimensions of an object?

2. How do you determine volume of a regularly 2. Measure dimensions.

shaped object?

3. How do you determine the volume of an irregularly 3. A displacement technique.

shaped object?

4. What apparatus is used to measure mass? 4. Balance

5. To calculate density what 2 measurements do you 5. Mass and volume

need?

6. What is the formula to calculate density? 6. Mass / Volume

7. How do you determine the volume of an irregularly 7. Add it to a displacement can filled with water. Add
shaped object? the object, collecting the displaced water in a
measuring cylinder. The volume of water collected is
the volume of the object.

8. What is the unit for mass? 8. Grams (g)

9. What is the unit for volume? 9. Cm3

10. What is the unit for density? 10. g/cm3

11. How do you determine the mass of a liquid? 11. Add a beaker to a balance and set to 0. Then add the
liquid recording the mass.

12. What is the density of water? 12. 1g/cm3

13. What piece of equipment could be used to measure 13. Vernier callipers or a digital micrometer
lengths more accurately than a ruler?

14. What is the resolution of a ruler? 14. 1mm

15. What happens to accuracy when higher resolution 15. Increases

apparatus is used?

16. What is zero error? 16. When a piece of apparatus gives a false reading when
the true value is 0.

17. How can a zero error on a balance be corrected? 17. Record the value on the balance when it should be
zero, subtract this value from each mass recorded.

18. When measuring the volume of an irregularly 18. The water level not at the same level as the spout,
shaped object how may an error occur? not all the displaced water is collected in the
measuring cylinder, eye position too high or low
when measuring the volume.

@SinclairEducation 46
 Topic RP5 Determining Density

Qu Explain how to determine the density of ______

You could be asked this question for any object that is either a regular shape,
or irregular shape. Some that have come up in the past include:
• A small rock
• A metal cube
• A small statue
• A chess piece
Info
• A rock cut into a cuboid

To answer this question, you will need to do the following:

1. Identify if the object is a regular or irregular shape.
2. Describe how to measure mass.
3. Describe how to measure volume.
4. Explain how you will use results to determine density.

For each measurement required identify the equipment you will use and
Top Tip
describe how to use it.

Explain how to determine the density of a small rock.

1. Measure the mass of a rock by placing it on a balance.

2. To find the volume of the rock set a displacement can filled up to be
Model level with the spout. Place a measuring cylinder underneath. Add the
Answer small rock to the displacement can. Record the volume of water that
was displaced into the measuring cylinder.
3. Calculate the density by dividing the mass by the volume.

1. Learn and practice the model answer above.

Practice 2. Prepare and learn a model answer to explain how you will determine
the density of a metal cube, a small statue, a chess piece and a rock cut
into a cuboid.

@SinclairEducation 47