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3.7.4 Capacitance Exam Q and A

AQA A-Level physics

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)

7 views76 pages

3.7.4 Capacitance Exam Q and A

AQA A-Level physics

Uploaded by

Kayan Ahmed

We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.

Available Formats

Download as RTF, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

You are on page 1/ 76

_______________________

Name:
_
3.7.4 Capacitance Exam Q
and A _______________________
Class:
_

_______________________
Date:
_

Time: 291 minutes

Marks: 210 marks

Comments:

Page 1 of 76
Q1.
The graph shows how the charge stored by a capacitor varies with the pd applied across
it.

Which line, A to D, in the table gives the capacitance and the energy stored when the
potential difference is 5.0 V?

capacitance/μF energy stored/μJ

A 2.0 25

B 2.0 50

C 10.0 25

D 10.0 50
(Total 1 mark)

Q2.
A student used a voltage sensor connected to a datalogger to plot the discharge curve for
a 4.7 μF capacitor. She obtained the following graph.

Page 2 of 76
Use data from the graph to calculate

(a) the initial charge stored,

___________________________________________________________________
(2)

(b) the energy stored when the capacitor had been discharging for 35 ms,

___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________
(3)

(c) the time constant for the circuit,

___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________
(3)

(d) the resistance of the circuit through which the capacitor was discharging.

___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________
(2)
(Total 10 marks)

Q3.
(a) As a capacitor was charged from a 12 V supply, a student used a coulomb meter

Page 3 of 76
and a voltmeter to record the charge stored by the capacitor at a series of values of
potential difference across the capacitor. The student then plotted a graph of pd (on
the y-axis) against charge (on the x-axis).

(i) Sketch the graph obtained.

(ii) State what is represented by the gradient of the line.

______________________________________________________________

(iii) State what is represented by the area enclosed by the line and the x-axis of
the graph.

______________________________________________________________
(3)

(b) The student then connected the capacitor as shown in the diagram below to carry
out an investigation into the discharge of the capacitor.

The student used a voltage sensor, datalogger and computer to obtain values for the
pd across the capacitor at various times during the discharge.

(i) At time t = 0, with switch S2 open, switch S1was moved from position A to
position B. Calculate the pd across the capacitor when t = 26 s.

______________________________________________________________

Page 4 of 76
______________________________________________________________

(ii) At time t = 26 s, as the discharge continued, the student closed switch S2.
Calculate the pd across the capacitor 40 s after switch S1 was moved from
position A to position B.

______________________________________________________________

(iii) Sketch a graph of pd against time for the student’s experiment described in
parts (b)(i) and (b)(ii).

(7)
(Total 10 marks)

Q4.
A 2.0 mF capacitor, used as the backup for a memory unit, has a potential difference of
5.0 V across it when fully charged. The capacitor is required to supply a constant current
of 1.0 µA and can be used until the potential difference across it falls by 10%. How long
can the capacitor be used for before it must be recharged?

A 10 s

B 100 s

C 200 s

D 1000 s
(Total 1 mark)

Q5.
(a) A particular heart pacemaker uses a capacitor which has a capacitance of 4.2 μF.
Explain what is meant by a capacitance of 4.2 μF.

___________________________________________________________________

Page 5 of 76
___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________
(2)

(b) Capacitor A, of capacitance 4.2 μF, is charged to 4.0 V and then discharged through
a sample of heart tissue. This capacitor is replaced by capacitor B and the charge
and discharge process repeated through the same sample of tissue.
The discharge curves are shown in the figure below.

(i) By considering the discharge curve for capacitor A, show that the resistance of
the sample of heart tissue through which the discharge occurs is
approximately 150 Ω.

______________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________
(4)

(ii) State and explain whether capacitor B has a larger or smaller capacitance
than that of capacitor A.

______________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________
(2)

(c) Capacitor A was charged to a potential difference of 4.0V before discharging

through the sample of heart tissue.
Determine how much energy it passed to the sample of heart tissue in the first 0.90
m s of the discharge.

Page 6 of 76
___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________

energy ______________________ J
(3)
(Total 11 marks)

Q6.
A capacitor of capacitance C discharges through a resistor of resistance R. Which one of
the following statements is not true?

A The time constant will decrease if C is increased.

B The time constant will increase if R is increased.

C After charging to the same voltage, the initial discharge current will increase if R is
decreased.

D After charging to the same voltage, the initial discharge current will be unaffected if
C is increased.
(Total 1 mark)

Q7.
Capacitors and rechargeable batteries are examples of electrical devices that can be used
repeatedly to store energy.

(a) (i) A capacitor of capacitance 70 F is used to provide the emergency back-up in a

low voltage power supply.

Calculate the energy stored by this capacitor when fully charged to its
maximum operating voltage of 1.2 V. Express your answer to an appropriate
number of significant figures.

answer = ______________________J

Page 7 of 76
(3)

(ii) A rechargeable 1.2 V cell used in a cordless telephone can supply a steady
current of 55 mA for 10 hours. Show that this cell, when fully charged, stores
almost 50 times more energy than the capacitor in part (a)(i).

(2)

(b) Give two reasons why a capacitor is not a suitable source for powering a cordless
telephone.

Reason 1 __________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________

Reason 2 __________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________
(2)
(Total 7 marks)

Q8.
The graph shows how the charge on a capacitor varies with time as it is discharged
through a resistor.

What is the time constant for the circuit?

A 3.0 s

B 4.0 s

Page 8 of 76
C 5.0 s

D 8.0 s
(Total 1 mark)

Q9.
The figure below shows part of the discharge curve for a capacitor that a manufacturer
tested for use in a heart pacemaker.

The capacitor was initially charged to a potential difference (pd) of 1.4 V and then
discharged through a 150 Ω resistor.

(a) Show that the capacitance of the capacitor used is about 80 μF.

___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________
(3)

(b) Explain why the rate of change of the potential difference decreases as the
capacitor discharges.

___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________
(3)

Page 9 of 76
(c) Calculate the percentage of the initial energy stored by the capacitor that is lost by
the capacitor in the first 0.015 s of the discharge.

energy lost ______________________%

(3)

(d) The charge leaving the capacitor in 0.015 s is the charge used by the pacemaker to
provide a single pulse to stimulate the heart.

(i) Calculate the charge delivered to the heart in a single pulse.

charge ______________________C
(1)

(ii) The manufacturer of the pacemaker wants it to operate for a minimum of 5

years working at a constant pulse rate of 60 per minute.
Calculate the minimum charge capacity of the power supply that the
manufacturer should specify so that it will operate for this time.
Give your answer in amp-hours (Ah).

minimum capacity ______________________Ah

(2)
(Total 12 marks)

Q10.
A capacitor of capacitance C stores an amount of energy E when the pd across it is V.
Which line, A to D, in the table gives the correct stored energy and pd when the charge is
increased by 50%?

energy pd
A 1.5 E 1.5 V

Page 10 of 76
B 1.5 E 2.25 V
C 2.25 E 1.5 V
D 2.25 E 2.25 V
(Total 1 mark)

Q11.
A 400 μF capacitor is charged so that the voltage across its plates rises at a constant rate
from 0 V to 4.0 V in 20 s. What current is being used to charge the capacitor?

A 5 μΑ

B 20 μΑ

C 40 μΑ

D 80 μΑ
(Total 1 mark)

Q12.
The graph below shows how the charge stored by a capacitor varies with time when it is
discharged through a fixed resistor.

(a) Determine the time constant, in ms, of the discharge circuit.

Page 11 of 76
time constant ____________________ ms
(3)

(b) Explain why the rate of discharge will be greater if the fixed resistor has a smaller
resistance.

___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________
(2)
(Total 5 marks)

Q13.
(a) Define the capacitance of a capacitor.

___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________
(2)

(b) The circuit shown in the figure below contains a battery, a resistor, a capacitor and a
switch.

The switch in the circuit is closed at time t = 0. The graph shows how the charge Q
stored by the capacitor varies with t.

Page 12 of 76
(b) (i) When the capacitor is fully charged, the charge stored is 13.2 μC. The
electromotive force (emf) of the battery is 6.0 V. Determine the capacitance of
the capacitor.

answer = ______________________ F
(2)

(ii) The time constant for this circuit is the time taken for the charge stored to
increase from 0 to 63% of its final value. Use the graph to find the time
constant in milliseconds.

answer = ______________________ ms
(2)

(iii) Hence calculate the resistance of the resistor.

answer = ______________________ Ω
(1)

(iv) What physical quantity is represented by the gradient of the graph?

______________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________
(1)

Page 13 of 76
answer = ______________________ mA
(1)

(ii) Sketch a graph on the outline axes to show how the current varies with time as
the capacitor is charged. Mark the maximum value of the current on your
graph.

(2)
(Total 11 marks)

Q14.
A 10 μF capacitor is fully charged to a pd of 3.0 kV. The energy stored in the capacitor can
be used to lift a load of 5.0 kg through a vertical height h. What is the approximate value
of h?

A 0.03 mm

B 0.9 mm

C 0.3 m

D 0.9 m
(Total 1 mark)

Q15.
A capacitor stores a charge of 600 μC when charged to a potential difference (pd) of 6.0 V.
What will be the pd across the plates if the charge stored increases by 50%?

A 3.0 V

B 4.5 V

C 9.0 V

D 12.0 V
(Total 1 mark)

Q16.
A 1000 μF capacitor and a 10 μF capacitor are charged so that they store the same
energy. The pd across the 1000 μF capacitor is V1 and the pd across the other capacitor is
V2.

Page 14 of 76
What is the value of the ratio ?

D 10
(Total 1 mark)

Q17.
The graph shows how the charge Q stored by a capacitor varies with the potential
difference (pd) V across it as V is increased from 9.0 V to 12.0 V.

(a) (i) Use the graph to determine an accurate value for the capacitance of the
capacitor.

capacitance = ____________________ μF
(2)

(ii) Calculate the additional energy stored by the capacitor when V is increased
from 9.0 V to 12.0 V.

Page 15 of 76
additional energy = ____________________ J
(3)

(b) When a 470 μF capacitor is discharged through a fixed resistor R, the pd across it
decreases by 80% in 45 s.

(i) Calculate the time constant of the capacitor–resistor circuit.

time constant = ____________________ s

(3)

(ii) Determine the resistance of R.

resistance = ____________________ Ω
(2)

(iii) At which point during the discharging process is the capacitor losing charge at
the smallest rate? Tick (✔) the correct answer.

✔ if correct

when the charge on the capacitor is

greatest

when energy is dissipated at the greatest

rate

when the current in the resistor is greatest

when the pd across R is least

(1)
(Total 11 marks)

Q18.
An initially uncharged capacitor of capacitance 20 μF is charged by a constant current of
80 μA. Which line, A to D, in the table gives the potential difference across, and the
energy stored in, the capacitor after 50 s?

potential difference / V energy stored / J

Page 16 of 76
A 4.0 × 10–3 2.0 × 10–3

B 4.0 × 10–3 4.0 × 10–1

C 2. 0 × 102 2.0 × 10–3

D 2. 0 × 102 4.0 × 10–1

(Total 1 mark)

Q19.
The voltage across a capacitor falls from 10 V to 5 V in 48 ms as it discharges through a
resistor. What is the time constant of the circuit?

A 24 ms

B 33 ms

C 69 ms

D 96 ms
(Total 1 mark)

Q20.
In the circuit shown the capacitor C charges when switch S is closed.

Which line, A to D, in the table gives a correct pair of graphs showing how the charge on
the capacitor and the current in the circuit change with time after S is closed?

charge current

A graph 1 graph 1

B graph 1 graph 2

Page 17 of 76
C graph 2 graph 2

D graph 2 graph 1
(Total 1 mark)

Q21.
A nuclear fusion device is required to deliver at least 1 MJ of energy using capacitors. If
the largest workable potential difference is 10 kV, what is the minimum capacitance of the
capacitors that should be used?

A 0.01 F

B 0.02 F

C 2F

D 100 F
(Total 1 mark)

Q22.
(a) When an uncharged capacitor is charged by a constant current of 4.5 μA for 60 s
the pd across it becomes 4.4 V.

(i) Calculate the capacitance of the capacitor.

capacitance ____________________ F
(3)

(ii) The capacitor is charged using the circuit shown in Figure 1. The battery emf
is 6.0 V and its internal resistance is negligible. In order to keep the current
constant at 4.5 μA, the resistance of the variable resistor R is decreased
steadily as the charge on the capacitor increases.

Figure 1

Calculate the resistance of R when the uncharged capacitor has been

Page 18 of 76
charging for 30 s.

resistance ____________________ Ω
(3)

(b) The circuit in Figure 2 contains a cell, an uncharged capacitor, a fixed resistor and a
two-way switch.

Figure 2

The switch is moved to position 1 until the capacitor is fully charged. The switch is
then moved to position 2.

Describe what happens in this circuit after the switch is moved to position 1, and
after it has been moved to position 2. In your answer you should refer to:
• the direction in which electrons flow in the circuit, and how the flow of
electrons changes with time,
• how the potential differences across the resistor and the capacitor change with
time,
• the energy changes which take place in the circuit.

The terminals of the cell are labelled A and B and the capacitor plates are labelled
P and Q so that you can refer to them in your answer.
The quality of your written communication will be assessed in your answer.

___________________________________________________________________

Page 19 of 76
___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________
(6)
(Total 12 marks)

Q23.
Switch S in the circuit is held in position 1, so that the capacitor C becomes fully charged
to a pd V and stores energy E.

The switch is then moved quickly to position 2, allowing C to discharge through the fixed

resistor R. It takes 36 ms for the pd across C to fall to What period of time must
elapse, after the switch has moved to position 2, before the energy stored by C has fallen

to ?

A 51 ms

B 72 ms

C 432 ms

D 576 ms
(Total 1 mark)

Q24.
The specification for a pacemaker requires a suitable charge to be delivered in 1.4 ms. A
designer uses a circuit with a capacitor of capacitance 3.0 μF and a 2.5 V power supply to
deliver the charge. The designer calculates that a suitable charge will be delivered to the
heart as the capacitor discharges from a potential difference (pd) of 2.5 V to a pd of 1.2 V
in 1.4 ms.

(a) (i) Calculate the charge on the capacitor when it is charged to a pd of 2.5 V.

Page 20 of 76
charge ____________________ C
(1)

(ii) Draw a graph showing how the charge, Q, on the capacitor varies with the pd,
V, as it discharges through the heart.
Include an appropriate scale on the charge axis.

(3)

(b) Calculate the energy delivered to the heart in a single pulse from the pacemaker
when the capacitor discharges to 1.2 V from 2.5 V.

energy ____________________ J
(3)

Page 21 of 76
resistance ____________________ Ω
(3)

(ii) Explain why the rate of change of pd between the capacitor plates decreases
as the capacitor discharges.

______________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________
(2)
(Total 12 marks)

Q25.
This question is about capacitor charging and discharging.

A student designs an experiment to charge a capacitor using a constant current. The

figure below shows the circuit the student designed to allow charge to flow onto a
capacitor that has been initially discharged.

The student begins the experiment with the shorting lead connected across the capacitor
as in the figure above. The variable resistor is then adjusted to give a suitable ammeter
reading. The shorting lead is removed so that the capacitor begins to charge. At the same
instant, the stop clock is started.

The student intends to measure the potential difference (pd) across the capacitor at 10 s
intervals while adjusting the variable resistor to keep the charging current constant.

The power supply has an emf of 6.0 V and negligible internal resistance. The capacitor
has a capacitance of 680 µF. The variable resistor has a maximum resistance of 100 kΩ.

(a) The student chooses a digital voltmeter for the experiment. A digital voltmeter has a
very high resistance.

Page 22 of 76
Explain why it is important to use a voltmeter with very high resistance.

___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________
(1)

(b) Suggest one advantage of using an analogue ammeter rather than a digital
ammeter for this experiment.

___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________
(1)

full scale deflection = ____________________

(2)

(d) The diagram shows the reading on the voltmeter at one instant during the
experiment. The manufacturer gives the uncertainty in the meter reading as 2%.

Calculate the absolute uncertainty in this reading.

uncertainty = ____________________V
(1)

(e) Determine the number of different readings the student will be able to take before
the capacitor becomes fully charged.

Page 23 of 76
number = ____________________
(3)

(f) The experiment is performed with a capacitor of nominal value 680 µF and a
manufacturing tolerance of ± 5 %. In this experiment the charging current is
maintained at 65 µA. The data from the experiment produces a straight-line graph
for the variation of pd with time. This shows that the pd across the capacitor
increases at a rate of 98 mV s–1.

Calculate the capacitance of the capacitor.

capacitance = ____________________µF
(2)

(g) Deduce whether the capacitor is within the manufacturer’s tolerance.

___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________
(1)

(h) The student decides to confirm the value of the capacitance by first determining the
time constant of the circuit when the capacitor discharges through a fixed resistor.

Describe an experiment to do this. Include in your answer:

• a circuit diagram
• an outline of a procedure
• an explanation of how you would use the data to determine the time constant.

Page 24 of 76
___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________
(4)
(Total 15 marks)

Q26.
A variable capacitor has a capacitance which can be varied from 6.0 × 10–12 F to 3.0 × 10–
12
F. The capacitor is set to its maximum capacitance and fully charged using a 48 V
supply. The capacitor is then disconnected from the supply and isolated. Finally the
capacitance is reduced to its minimum value without any charge being lost by the
capacitor.

Which line, A to D, in the table correctly shows the potential difference (pd) across the
capacitor and the charge it stores after the capacitance has been reduced?

pd / V Charge / C
A 48 2.9 × 10–10
B 24 2.9 × 10–10
C 96 2.9 × 10–10
D 96 1.4 × 10–10
(Total 1 mark)

Q27.
(a) Figure 1 shows an astable circuit based on a NOT logic gate. The symbol in the
centre of the logic gate means that the output Vo changes at two different input
values of Vc depending on whether the input voltage is rising or falling.

Figure 1

Page 25 of 76
The pulse repetition frequency (PRF) for this particular circuit is given by:

Calculate the PRF in kHz

PRF = ____________________ kHz

(1)

(b) The supply voltage to the NOT gate is Vs

• When Vc increases and reaches the upper switching threshold (UST), the
output of the NOT gate will switch from Vs to 0 V
• When Vc decreases and reaches the lower switching threshold (LST), the
output of the NOT gate will switch from 0 V to Vs

The graph in Figure 2 shows Vc constantly changing as the capacitor charges and
discharges.

Figure 2

Draw on Figure 2 the output voltage Vo for the astable circuit.

(1)

Page 26 of 76
(c) The circuit in Figure 1 can be modified by the addition of a resistor to vary the PRF.

The astable is to be modified so that it produces a frequency 4 times that of the

original.

Calculate the value of the resistor that should be added to the circuit and explain
where in the circuit this additional resistor should be placed.

value of resistor = ____________________ kΩ

___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________
(2)

(d) In another astable, two resistors (R1 and R2) and a capacitor C form a timing chain
to control the mark and space times for a square wave produced at the output of the
integrated circuit (IC) shown in Figure 3.

Figure 3

The charging time for the capacitor C is: tC = 0.7 × (R1 + R2) × C

The discharging time for the capacitor C is: tD = 0.7 × R2 × C

Calculate, in kΩ, values for R1 and R2 needed to produce a 5 kHz signal with 75%
duty cycle given that the capacitor C has a value of 10 nF

Page 27 of 76
R1 = ____________________ kΩ

R2 = ____________________ kΩ
(2)

(e) The output of the IC in Figure 3 is 5 V during the charging period and 0 V during the
discharging period.

Draw on Figure 4 the wave pattern that represents this signal.

Figure 4

(2)
(Total 8 marks)

Q28.
The figure below shows a capacitor of capacitance 370 pF. It consists of two parallel metal
plates of area 250 cm2. A sheet of polythene that has a relative permittivity 2.3 completely
fills the gap between the plates.

not to scale

(a) Calculate the thickness of the polythene sheet.

thickness = _____________m
(2)

(b) The capacitor is charged so that there is a potential difference of 35 V between the
plates. The charge on the capacitor is then 13 nC and the energy stored is 0.23 µJ.

Page 28 of 76
The supply is now disconnected and the polythene sheet is pulled out from between
the plates without discharging or altering the separation of the plates.

Show that the potential difference between the plates increases to about 80 V.

(2)

(c) Calculate the energy that is now stored by the capacitor.

energy stored = _____________µJ

(2)

(d) Explain why there is an increase in the energy stored by the capacitor when the
polythene sheet is pulled out from between the plates.

___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________
(2)
(Total 8 marks)

Q29.
(a) Explain what is meant by a capacitance of 120 µF.

___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________
(1)

(b) Figure 1 shows a plan view of the apparatus used by a student to measure the
speed of a steel ball immediately after it has been struck from rest.

Figure 1

Page 29 of 76
When the ball is touching the copper contacts, the 120 µF capacitor charges to a
potential difference of 9.6 V. Once the ball has left the contacts, the capacitor
discharges through the 1.3 kΩ resistor. When the ball has travelled a distance of
0.12 m, it breaks the aluminium foil so that the capacitor stops discharging.

Figure 2 shows the variation of potential difference V recorded by the data logger.

The ball is struck at time t1.

Figure 2

Calculate the charge that passes through the resistor as the capacitor discharges.

charge = ________________ C

Page 30 of 76
(1)

maximum current = ________________ A

(1)

(d) Calculate the energy that is transferred as the capacitor discharges through the 1.3
kΩ resistor.

energy = ________________ J
(3)

(e) Sketch a graph on the axes of Figure 3 that shows the variation of the magnitude of
the current in the resistor during the time interval shown in Figure 2.

A scale is required on the current axis but not on the time axis.

Figure 3

(3)

(f) Calculate the time for which the capacitor is discharging and hence determine the
mean speed of the ball.

Page 31 of 76
speed = ________________m s−1

(4)

(g) Discuss two reasons why your answer to part (f) is likely to be lower than the speed
of the ball immediately after it is struck.

___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________
(2)
(Total 15 marks)

Q30.
The initial potential difference across a capacitor is V0. The capacitor discharges through a
circuit of time constant T. The base of natural logarithms is e.

What is the potential difference across the capacitor after time T?

C V0e

D V0ln2

(Total 1 mark)

Q31.
(a) State what is meant by a capacitance of 370 μF

___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________
(2)

Page 32 of 76
(b) The charging of a 370 μF capacitor is investigated using the circuit shown in
Figure 1.
Both meters in the circuit are ideal.

Figure 1

The power supply of emf 9.8V has a negligible internal resistance. The capacitor is
initially uncharged. When the switch is closed at time t = 0 charge begins to flow
through resistor R. The time constant of the charging circuit is 1.0 s

Calculate the resistance of R.

resistance of R = ____________________ Ω
(1)

(c) Identify, with the symbol X on Figure 2, the potential difference (pd) across the
capacitor when the switch has been closed for 2.0 s
Sketch the graph that shows how the pd varies from t = 0 to t = 2.0 s

Figure 2

(2)

(d) Calculate the time taken for the charging current to fall to half its initial value.

Page 33 of 76
time = ____________________ s
(1)

(e) Calculate the time taken for the charge on the capacitor to reach 3.0 mC

time = ____________________ s
(3)
(Total 9 marks)

Q32.
A 1.0 μF capacitor initially stores 15 μC of charge. It then discharges through a 25 Ω
resistor.

What is the maximum current during the discharge of the capacitor?

A 0.60 mA

B 1.2 mA

C 0.60 A

D 1.2 A

(Total 1 mark)

Q33.
A 10 μF capacitor stores 4.5 mJ of energy.
It then discharges through a 25 Ω resistor.

What is the maximum current during the discharge of the capacitor?

A 1.2 A

B 18 A

C 30 A

D 36 A
(Total 1 mark)

Q34.

Page 34 of 76
A parallel-plate capacitor is made by inserting a sheet of dielectric material between two
plates. Both plates are in contact with the sheet.

Which relative permittivity and sheet thickness give the greatest capacitance?

Relative permittivity Thickness / mm

A 2 0.40

B 3 0.90

C 4 1.0

D 6 1.6

(Total 1 mark)

Q35.
A parallel-plate capacitor is made using a sheet of dielectric material between, and in
contact with, two plates.
The properties of four sheets of dielectric material are shown.

Which sheet will produce the maximum capacitance?

Relative Thickness /
Sheet
permittivity mm

A 2 0.40

B 3 0.90

C 4 1.0

D 6 1.6
(Total 1 mark)

Q36.
An uncharged capacitor is connected to a power supply which supplies a constant current
of 10 μA.

After 100 ms, the potential difference across the capacitor is 5.0 kV.

What is the capacitance of the capacitor?

A 2.0 × 10−10 F

B 4.0 × 10−10 F

C 2.5 × 109 F

D 5.0 × 109 F
(Total 1 mark)

Page 35 of 76
Q37.
When a parallel-plate capacitor is connected across a battery, the energy stored in the
capacitor is W.

The battery remains connected as the distance between the capacitor plates is halved.

What is the energy now stored in the capacitor?

A 0.5W

B W
C 2W

D 4W
(Total 1 mark)

Q38.
A capacitor of capacitance 63 pF is made from two parallel metal plates separated by an
air gap.
The capacitor is charged so that it stores a charge of 7.6 × 10−10 C; it is then isolated.

A sheet of mica of dielectric constant 6.0 is inserted between the plates so that it
completely fills the space between them. The mica does not discharge the capacitor and
does not change the separation of the plates.

(a) Explain what is meant by a dielectric constant of 6.0

___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________
(1)

(b) Mica is made up of polar molecules. As the mica is inserted, the capacitance of the
capacitor changes.

Explain how the polar molecules cause this change in capacitance.

___________________________________________________________________

Page 36 of 76
___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________
(3)

(c) Calculate the difference between the initial energy stored by the capacitor and the
energy stored when the mica has been fully inserted.

energy difference = _______________ J

(3)

Figure 1 shows the structure of a variable capacitor used for measuring angular
movement. The capacitor consists of two semicircular metal plates. These plates are
parallel and are separated by an air gap.

Figure 1

To vary the capacitance, one of the plates is rotated through an angle θ using the
spindle. The other plate remains fixed.

(d) Sketch a graph on Figure 2 to show how the capacitance C varies with θ as the
spindle is turned through 360°.
When θ is 0°, the plates completely overlap.

Figure 2

Page 37 of 76
(2)

(e) In one situation, the variable capacitor is too large for the available space.

The same maximum capacitance is required using plates that have half the diameter
of the original capacitor.

Explain, with numerical detail, two ways in which this can be achieved.

1 _________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________

2 _________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________
(3)
(Total 12 marks)

Q39.
An analogue voltmeter has a resistance that is much less than that of a modern digital
voltmeter.
Analogue meters can be damaged if the full-scale reading is exceeded.
Figure 1 shows a dual-range analogue voltmeter with a zero error.

Figure 1

Page 38 of 76
(a) The voltmeter is set to the more sensitive range and then used in a circuit.

What is the potential difference (pd) between the terminals of the voltmeter when a
full-scale reading is indicated?

Tick (✓) one box.

2.7 V

3.3 V

13.5 V

16.5 V

(1)

(b) Explain the use of the mirror when reading the meter.

___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________
(2)

A student corrects the zero error on the meter and then assembles the circuit shown in
Figure 2.
The capacitance of the capacitor C is not known.

Figure 2

Page 39 of 76
The output pd of the power supply is set to zero.
The student connects the flying lead to socket X and adjusts the output pd until the
voltmeter reading is full scale (15 V).
She disconnects the flying lead from socket X so that C discharges through the voltmeter.

She measures the time T½ for the voltmeter reading V to fall from 10 V to 5 V.

She repeats this process several times.

Table 1 shows the student’s results, none of which is anomalous.

Table 1

T½ / s 12.00 11.94 12.06 12.04 12.16

(c) Determine the percentage uncertainty in T½.

percentage uncertainty = _______________ %

(2)

(d) Show that the time constant for the discharge circuit is about 17 s.

(1)

Page 40 of 76
(e) The student thinks that the time constant of the circuit in Figure 2 is directly
proportional to the range of the meter.
To test her theory, she repeats the experiment with the voltmeter set to the 3 V
range.
She expects T½ to be about 2.5 s.

Explain:

• what the student should do, before connecting capacitor C to the 0 V and 3 V
sockets, to avoid exceeding the full-scale reading on the voltmeter
• how she should develop her procedure to get an accurate result for the time
constant
• how she should use her result to check whether her theory is correct.

___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________
(4)

The student wants to find the resistance of the voltmeter when it is set to the 15 V range.
She replaces C with an 820 µF capacitor and charges it to 15 V.
She discharges the capacitor through the voltmeter, starting a stopwatch when V is 14 V.
She records the stopwatch reading T at other values of V as the capacitor discharges.

Table 2 shows her results.

Table 2

V/V 14 11 8 6 4 3 2

t/s 0.0 3.1 7.2 11.0 16.2 19.9 25.2

(f) Suggest two reasons why the student selected the values of V shown in Table 2.
Explain each of your answers.

1 _________________________________________________________________

Page 41 of 76
___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________

2 _________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________
(4)

Figure 3 shows a graph of the experimental data.

Figure 3

(g) Show, using Figure 3, that the resistance of the voltmeter is about 16 kΩ.

Page 42 of 76
(3)

(h) Determine the current in the voltmeter at t = 10 s.

current = _______________ A
(2)
(Total 19 marks)

Q40.
The capacitor in the circuit is initially uncharged.
The switch is closed at time t = 0

Which pair of graphs shows how the potential difference V across the capacitor and the
current I in the circuit change with time t?

A B

C D

Page 43 of 76
B

D
(Total 1 mark)

Page 44 of 76
Mark schemes

Q1.
A
[1]

Q2.
(a) Q = CV (1)
(= 4.7 × 10-6 × 6.0) = 28 × 10-6 C or 28 μC (1)
2

(b) E = ½CV2 (1)

= ½ × 4.7 × 10-6 × 2.02 (1)
= 9.4 × 10-6 J (1)
[or E = ½QV (1)
= ½ × 9.4 × 10-6 × 2.0 (1)
= 9.4 × 10-6 J (1)]
3

(c) time constant is time taken for V to fall to (1)

∴V must fall to 2.2 V (1)

time constant = 32 ms (1)
[or draw tangent at t = 0 (1)
intercept of tangent on t axis is time constant (1)
accept value 30 - 35 ms (1)]
[or V = V0 exp(-t / RC) or Q = Q0 exp(-t / RC) (1)

correct substitution (1)

time constant = 32 ms (1)]
3

(d) time constant = RC (1)

R= = 6800 Ω (1)

(allow C.E. for value of time constant from (c))

2
[10]

Q3.
(a) (i) straight line through origin (1)

(ii) (1)

(iii) energy (stored by capacitor) (1) (or work done

(in charging capacitor))

Page 45 of 76
3

(b) (i) RC = 5.6 × 103 × 6.8 × 10–3 (1) (= 38.1 s)

V(= V0 e–t/RC) = 12 e–26/38.1 (1)
= 6.1 V (1) (6.06 V)
[or equivalent using Q = Q0e–t/RC and Q = CV]

(ii) (RC)’ = 2.8 × 103 × 6.8 × 10–3 (1) (= 19.0 s)

V (= 6.06 e–14/19) = 2.9(0) V (1)
(use of V’ = 6.1 V gives V = 2.9(2) V)

(iii)

7
[10]

Q4.
D
[1]

Q5.
(a) ratio of charge to potential

4.2 μC per volt etc

A1
2

(b) (i) method: time for voltage to half/tangent at

origin/use of decay equation/1/e value

appropriate reading from graph (T½ = 440 or 450 μs)

substitution into correct equation

R correct for method (151/152/155 Ω)

Page 46 of 76
B1
4

(ii) B smaller than A M0

B discharges faster/A discharges slower

reference to decay equation/calculation for B

B1
2

(c) E = ½ CV2 or ½ QV seen

both 4.0 (V) and 0.9 (V)/16.8 (μC) and 3.8 (μC) seen

31.9 (μJ)

A1
3
[11]

Q6.
A
[1]

Q7.
(a) (i) energy stored by capacitor (= ½ CV2)

= ½ × 70 × 1.22 (= 50.4) = 50 (J)

to 2 sf only
3

(ii) energy stored by cell (= I V t) = 55 × 10–3 × 1.2 × 10 × 3600

(= 2380 J)

= (ie about 50)

(b) capacitor would be impossibly large (to fit in phone)

capacitor would need recharging very frequently

[or capacitor could only power the phone for a short time]

capacitor voltage [or current supplied or charge] would fall

continuously while in use
max 2

Page 47 of 76
[7]

Q8.
C
[1]

Q9.
(a) time to halve = 0.008 s or two coordinates correct

C = T1/2/(0.69 × 150) or eg 0.4 = 1.4 e–0.015/150C

77 μF (consistent with numerical answer)

A1
3

(b) max 3 from

as capacitor discharges:

pd decreases

current through resistor decreases (since I V)

rate at which charge leaves the capacitor decreases (since I = ∆Q/∆t)

rate of change of charge is proportional to rate of change of pd

(since V Q)

condone quicker discharge when pd is larger

B1
3

(c) energy stored ∝ V 2 or use of ½ CV 2

or initial energy = 78.4 (or 75.5) μJ
or final energy using V = 0.38–0.4 0 V
(answer in range 5.6 – 6.4 μJ)

fraction remaining = (0.4/1.4)2 or 0.072 – 0.081

or energy lost = 72 μJ

Page 48 of 76
C1

91.8 to 92.8% lost

A1
3

(d) (i) charge = 77 μC to 82 μC

B1
1

(ii) charge required = 77 × 10–6 × 5 × 3.15 × 107 (= 12128 C)

or 1A–h =3600 C

3.36(3.4) Ah

A1
2
[12]

Q10.
C
[1]

Q11.
D
[1]

Q12.
(a) (Q = Q 0e−t /RC gives )1.0 = 4.0e−300 / RC

from which

[Alternative answer:
time constant is time for charge to decrease to Q0 /e [or 0.37 Q0 ]
4.0/e = 1.47

reading from graph gives time constant = 216 ± 10 (ms)

In alternative scheme, 4.0/e = 1.47 subsumes 1st mark. Also,
accept T½ = 0.693 RC (or = ln 2 RC) for 1st mark.
3

(b) current is larger (for given V)(because resistance is lower)

[or correct application of I = V / R]
current is rate of flow of charge
[or correct application of I =Δ Q / Δt]

larger rate of flow of charge (implies greater rate of discharge)

[or causes larger rate of transfer of electrons from one plate back to the other]

Page 49 of 76
[Alternative answer:
time constant (or RC) is decreased (when R is decreased)
explanation using Q = Q0e−t / RC or time constant explained ]
Use either first or alternative scheme; do not mix and match.
Time constant = RC is insufficient for time constant
explained.
max 2
[5]

Q13.
(a) charge (stored) per unit potential difference

[or C = Q/V where Q = charge (stored by one plate) V = pd (across plates) ]

(b) (i) = = 2.2 × 10–6 (F) (or 2.2 μF)

(ii) when t = time constant Q = 0.63 × 13.2 = 8.3 (μC)

[or = 0.63 × 13(.0) (from graph) = 8.2 (μC)]

reading from graph gives time constant = 15 (± 1) (ms)

(iii) resistance of resistor = = 6820 (Ω)

(iv) gradient = current

(c) (i) maximum current = = = 0.88 (mA)

[or value from initial gradient of graph: allow 0.70 – 1.00 mA for this approach]
1

(ii) curve starts at marked lmax on l axis and has decreasing negative gradient

line is asymptotic to t axis and approaches ≈ 0 by t = 60 ms

2
[11]

Q14.
D
[1]

Q15.
C
[1]

Page 50 of 76
Q16.
B
[1]

Q17.

(a) (i) capacitance ✓

= 8.1 (μF) ✓ (± 0.2 μF)

1 mark only if correct value of C is found from a single point.
2 marks if correct value of C is found from at least 2 points
and a mean value, or from gradient. (Check graph.)
Accept 8 (μF) if from correct working.
2

(ii) additional energy = area between line and Q or V axis ✓

= {½ × (98.2 − 73.9) × 3.0} + {(98.2 − 73.9) × 9.0} ✓
= {36.5 + 218.7) = 255 J or 2.6 10−4 (J) ✓

[or, using ½ QV:

additional energy = ½ Q2V2 − ½ Q1V1 ✓
= ½ {(98.2 × 12) − (73.9 × 9)} ✓
= 257 μJ or 2.6 × 10−4 (J) ✓ ]

[or, using ½ CV2:

additional energy = ½ CV22 – ½ CV12 ✓
= ½ 8.1 × (122 – 92) ✓
= 255 μJ or 2.6 × 10−4 (J) ✓ ]

[or, using ½ Q2/C:

additional energy = ½ Q22/C – ½ Q12/C ✓
= (98.22 – 73.92) ÷ (2 × 8.1) ✓
= 258 μJ or 2.6 × 10−4 (J) ✓ ]
First scheme: alternative for 2nd mark
= {½ × (98.2 − 73.9) × 3.0} + {73.9 × 3.0} ✓
All schemes:
second mark subsumes the first mark.
In all methods, allow tolerance of ± 10 μJ in final answer to
allow for variation in graph measurements.
Allow ECF for incorrect C value from (a)(i).
3

(b) (i) (V = V0e–t/RC gives) 0.2V0 = V0e–t/RC

and 0.2 = e–45/RC ✓

Condone use of 0.8 for 0.2 in first mark only.

In 0.2 – or In 5 = ✓

time constant RC = or In 5 = = 28.(0) (s) ✓

Page 51 of 76
(ii) resistance of R = ✓
= 5.96 × 104 (Ω) or 60 kΩ ✓
Allow ECF for incorrect RC value from (b)(i).
2

(ii) tick in 4th box only

1
[11]

Q18.
D
[1]

Q19.
C
[1]

Q20.
D
[1]

Q21.
B
[1]

Q22.
(a) (i) Q(= It) 4.5 × 10–6 × 60 or = 2.70 × 10–4 (C) ✓

✓ = 6.1(4) × 10–5 = 61 (μF) ✓

(ii) since VC was 4.4V after 60s, when t = 30s VC = 2.2 (V) ✓
[ or by use of Q = It and VC = Q / C ]
∴ pd across R is (6.0 – 2.2) = 3.8 (V) ✓

= 8.4(4) × 105 (Ω) ✓ (=844 kΩ)

In alternative method,
Q = 4.5 × 10–6 × 30 = 1.35 × 10–4 (C)
VC = 1.35 × 10–4 / 6.14 × 10–5 = 2.2 (V)
(allow ECF from wrong values in (i)).
3

(b) The candidate’s writing should be legible and the spelling, punctuation
and grammar should be sufficiently accurate for the meaning to be clear.

The candidate’s answer will be assessed holistically. The answer will be

Page 52 of 76
assigned to one of three levels according to the following criteria.

High Level (Good to excellent): 5 or 6 marks

The information conveyed by the answer is clearly organised, logical and
coherent, using appropriate specialist vocabulary correctly. The form and style
of writing is appropriate to answer the question.

The candidate gives a coherent and logical description of the flow of electrons
taking place during the charging and discharging processes, indicating the
correct directions of flow and the correct time variations. There is clear
understanding of how the pds change with time during charging and during
discharging. The candidate also gives a coherent account of energy transfers
that take place during charging and during discharging, naming the types of
energy involved. They recognise that the time constant is the same for both
charging and discharging.
A High Level answer must contain correct physical
statements about at least two of the following for both the
charging and the discharging positions of the switch:-
• the direction of electron flow in the circuit
• how the flow of electrons (or current) changes with
time
• how VR and / or VC change with time
• energy changes in the circuit

Intermediate Level (Modest to adequate): 3 or 4 marks

The information conveyed by the answer may be less well organised and not
fully coherent. There is less use of specialist vocabulary, or specialist
vocabulary may be used incorrectly. The form and style of writing is less
appropriate.

The candidate has a fair understanding of how the flow of electrons varies with
time, but may not be entirely clear about the directions of flow. Description of
the variation of pds with time is likely to be only partially correct and may not
be complete. The candidate may show reasonable understanding of the
energy transfers.
An Intermediate Level answer must contain correct physical
statements about at least two of the above for either the
charging or the discharging positions of the switch.

Low Level (Poor to limited): 1 or 2 marks

The information conveyed by the answer is poorly organised and may not be
relevant or coherent. There is little correct use of specialist vocabulary. The
form and style of writing may be only partly appropriate.

The candidate is likely to confuse electron flow with current and is therefore
unlikely to make effective progress in describing electron flow. Understanding
of the variation of pds with time is likely to be quite poor. The candidate may
show some understanding of the energy transfers that take place.
A Low Level answer must contain a correct physical
statement about at least one of the above for either the
charging or the discharging positions of the switch.

Incorrect, inappropriate or no response: 0 marks

No answer, or answer refers to unrelated, incorrect or inappropriate physics.

The explanation expected in a competent answer should include a

Page 53 of 76
coherent selection of the following points concerning the physical
principles involved and their consequences in this case.

Charging
• electrons flow from plate P to terminal A and from terminal B to plate Q
(ie. from plate P to plate Q via A and B)
• electrons flow in the opposite direction to current
• plate P becomes + and plate Q becomes –
• the rate of flow of electrons is greatest at the start, and decreases to
zero
when the capacitor is fully charged
• VR decreases from E to zero whilst VC increases from zero to E
• at any time VR + VC = E
• time variations are exponential decrease for VR and exponential increase
for VC
• chemical energy of the battery is changed into electric potential energy
stored in the capacitor, and into thermal energy by the resistor (which
passes
to the surroundings)
• half of the energy supplied by the battery is converted into thermal
energy and
half is stored in the capacitor

Discharging
• electrons flow back from plate Q via the shorting wire to plate P
• at the end of the process the plates are uncharged
• the rate of flow of electrons is greatest at the start, and decreases to
zero
when the capacitor is fully discharged
• VC decreases from –E to zero and VR decreases from E to zero
• at any time VC = – VR
• both VC and VR decrease exponentially with time
• electrical energy stored by the capacitor is all converted to thermal
energy
by the resistor as the electrons flow through it and this energy passes to
the surroundings
• time constant of the circuit is the same for discharging as for charging
Any answer which does not satisfy the requirement for a Low
Level answer should be awarded 0 marks.
max 6
[12]

Q23.
B
[1]

Q24.
(a) (i) 7.5 × 10−6 (C) or 7.5 µ(C)

B1
1
(ii) Suitable scale and charge from (i) correctly plotted at 2.5 V
Large square = 1 or 2 µC or
With false origin then large square = 0.5 µC

Page 54 of 76
B1

Only a Straight line drawn through or toward origin

Line must be straight, toward origin and only drawn

between 2.5 V and 1.2 V (± 1 / 2 square on plotted
points)

A1
3

(b) Attempted use of E= ½ CV2 Or attempted use of E=½ QV

9.38 (µJ) − 2.16 (µJ) seen

or E = ½ × 3 × 10−6 × 2.52 ‒ ½ × 3 × 10−6 × 1.22 seen
or E = ½ × 3 × 10−6 × (2.52 ‒ 1.22) seen
or E =½ × 7.5 × 10−6 × 2.5 ‒ ½ × 3.6 × 10−6 × 1.2 seen

7.2 × 10−6 (J) c.a.o

A1
3

(c) (i) Use of V = V0

or equivalent with

Q = Q0

R=− or R = − or R =

636 or 640 (Ω)

A1
3

(ii) Current decreases (I = V / R) / describes rate of flow of

electrons decreasing / rate of flow of charge decreases

Charge lost more slowly so pd falls more slowly

because V∝Q or Q=CV where C is constant

Page 55 of 76
A1
MAX 2
[12]

Q25.
(a) Capacitor must not lose charge through the meter ✓
1

(b) Position on scale can be marked / easier to read quickly etc ✓

(c) Initial current = = 60.0 μA ✓

100 μA or 200 μA ✓ (250 probably gives too low a reading)

Give max 1 mark if 65 μA (from 2.6) used and 100 μA meter chosen
2

(d) 0.05 V ✓
1

(e) Total charge = 6.0 x 680 x 10-6 (C) (= 4.08 mC) ✓

Time = 4.08 x 10-3 / 60.0 x 10-6 = 68 s ✓

Hence 6 readings ✓
3

(f) Recognition that total charge = 65 t μC and final pd = 0.098 t

so C = 65μ / 0.098✓

660 μF ✓
Allow 663 μF
2

(g) (yes) because it could lie within 646 – 714 to be in tolerance ✓

it is 97.5 % of quoted value which is within 5% ✓

(h) Suitable circuit drawn ✓

Charge C then discharge through R and record V or I at 5 or 10 s intervals ✓

Plot ln V or ln I versus time ✓

gradient is 1 / RC ✓

Suitable circuit drawn ✓

Charge C then discharge through R and record V or I at 5 or 10 s intervals✓

Page 56 of 76
Use V or I versus time data to deduce half-time to discharge ✓

1 / RC = ln 2 / t½ quoted ✓

Suitable circuit drawn ✓

Charge C then discharge through R and record V or I at 5 or 10 s intervals ✓

Plot V or I against t and find time T for V or I to fall to 0.37 of initial value ✓

T = CR ✓

Either A or V required
For 2nd mark, credit use of datalogger for recording V or I.
4
[15]

Q26.
C
[1]

Q27.
(a) PRF = 1 / (1.4 RC)

= 1 / (1.4 × 5.1 × 103 × 10 × 10–9)

14 kHz ✔
1

(b) Square wave with correct phase and amplitude ✔

(c) New resistor calculated and stated to be 1.7 kΩ ✔

Page 57 of 76
New resistor placed in parallel with original resistor ✔
Ecf from part (a)
2

(d) = 0.2 ms (200 μs)

tC = 0.2 × 10–3 × = 150 μs

tD = 0.2 × 10–3 × = 50 μs

R2 = = 7.1 kΩ (Accept 7kΩ)

R1 = – R2 = 14.3 kΩ (Accept 14kΩ)

1 mark for significant calculation
Eg showing R1 = 2R2
OR
Calculation for tC or tD
1 mark for values of R1 and R2
2

(e) Two properties per mark – (max mark 2 )✔✔

• A square wave

• Amplitude of 0 V to 5 V

• Periodic time of 0.2 ms

• High for 0.15 ms – Low for 0.05 ms

2
[8]

Q28.
(a) d= ✓

1.4 ×10–3 m (1.4 (1.38) mm)✓

Data substitution – condone incorrect powers of 10 for C and
A✓
2

(b) New capacitance = 161 pF✓

New V = 0.13 nC / 161pF = 81 V✓

(c) Energy stored = ½ × 161 × 10-12 × 812 ✓

0.53 μJ✓
2

Page 58 of 76
(d) Energy increases because:

In the polar dielectric molecules align in the field with positive charged end
toward the negative plate (or WTTE).✓

Work is done on the capacitor separating the positively charged surface of the
dielectric from the negatively charged plate (or vice versa).✓
2
[8]

Q29.
(a) the capacitor stores 120 µC of charge for each one volt of pd between the plates ✔
1

(b) Q = C ΔV = 120 × 10−6 × 4.2 = 5.0 × 10−4 C ✔

(c) I= so maximum current = = 7.4 ± 0.2 × 10−3 (A)✔

Allow ecf for incorrect read off in 01.2
1

(d) use of E = CV2 using V = 9.6V, 5.4V or 4.2V✔

Correct value of E at 9.6V or 5.4V ( 5.5 (3) × 10−3 J or 1.7(5) × 10−3 J✔

Both correct and subtraction 3.7(8) × 10−3 J ✔

Condone incorrect powers of 10
Allow 3.7 × 10−3J
3

(e) Graph same shape up to point where capacitor stops discharging✔

current falls to zero at time when capacitor stops discharging✔

Scale on current axis with Initial and final currents correct

7.4 mA and 4.2 mA at the instant when foil breaks

(Allow ±0.1 mA) ✔

must show curvature during discharge time
3

(f) use of V = V0 e−t/RC Allow substitution of manipulation to (discharge time) t = RC

ln(V0/V)✔

t = 0.156(0.16 ) × ln (9.6/5.4) ✔

= 0.090 or 0.092 s ✔

v = s/t = 0.12/their time ( 1.3 m s−1)✔

correct substitutions for V, condone incorrect powers of 10 in
substitution
Allow ecf for incorrect readoff for V in in Question (b)

Page 59 of 76
4

(g) There are resistive forces on the ball / the ball will decelerate ✔

The foil is unlikely to break at the instant the ball reaches it✔
2
[15]

Q30.
B
[1]

Q31.
(a) (Refers to a capacitor that) stores/holds/changes by 370 μC of charge ✔

For every (1) volt/volt change (of pd across its plates) ✔

Reference to charge to pd OR charge to voltage ratio ✔ includes units C or coulomb

and V or volt ✔
“Unit of pd” is no substitute for using volt and “unit of charge”
is no substitute for coulomb.
However the alternative marking could give a single mark for
370 × 10–6 units of charge per unit of pd.
An equation may contribute towards the first mark but only if
the symbols are identified. A second mark can be given if the
units are identified.
Ignore poor phrasing like ‘per unit volt passing through’.
2

(b) (Using time constant = R C)

(R = 1.0 / 370 × 10–6)

R = 2.7 × 103 (Ω) ✔

Check that the unit on answer line has not been altered.
1

Second mark for graph starting at the origin and having a decreasing gradient ie not
reaching horizontal ✔

Cross must be in the bottom half but not on the 8.0 V major
grid line or exactly half way up (9.0 V).
If a series of plotting crosses are given only consider the one

Page 60 of 76
placed at 2 s for the first mark.
2

(d) (Using T½ = 0.69 RC = 0.69 × 1.0)

T½ = 0.69 (s) ✔
1 sig fig is not acceptable
1

(e) (Use of Q = Qo(1 − )= CVo (1 − ))

Mark for max charge = CVo which may come from substitution or seeing 3.6(2) × 10–
3
C✔

3.0 × 10–3 = 370 × 10–6 × 9.8 (1 – e–t) ✔

Mark for substitution (0.8274 = (1 – e–t) so et = 1/0.173 = 5.79)

t = 1.7 s or 1.8 s ✔

Voltage V = Q/C = 3 × 10–3 / 370 × 10–6

= 8.1(1) V ✔

(Substitute into V = Vo(1 − ))

8.1 = 9.8 (1 – e–t) ✔

t = 1.7 s or 1.8 s ✔
Alternative mark scheme uses the voltage as proportional to
the charge.
Do not allow use of the graph for 2nd mark and 3rd mark.
An answer only gains only the last mark.
Evidence of working must be shown which shows
substitution into a (1 – e–t) form of the equation.
3
[9]

Q32.
C
[1]

Q33.
A
[1]

Q34.
A
[1]

Page 61 of 76
Q35.
A
[1]

Q36.
A
[1]

Q37.
C
[1]

Q38.
(a) (Dielectric constant is) and is equal to 6 ✔
OR
The permittivity of the dielectric is 6 times the permittivity of free space

Allow: = 6.
Its not enough to quote relative permittivity = 6
1

(b) (Electric field exists between plates)

Polar molecules align with their positive side facing the negative plate (owtte) ✔1
✔1 or vice versa.

producing a counter electric field/reducing the field between the plates ✔2

The pd V reduces between the capacitor plates but charge Q remains the same so
capacitance Q/V increases. ✔3
✔3 This mark may be approached from the idea that more
charge would be required to maintain pd hence C increases
by referencing C = Q/V
3

(c) Q remains the same ✔1

New C is 6 × previous C ✔2
✔2 May be seen in the substitution in the energy difference
calculation

Energy difference = 3.8 × 10−9 J ✔3

✔3 Calculates change in energy using E = ½Q2 =

4.58 x 10-9 – 7.64 x 10-10
Where Q = 7.6 × 10−10 C : c1 = 63 × 10−12 F
and c2 = 6 × 63 × 10−12 E = 378 × 10−12 J
Condone a negative final answer
If no marks given award single mark for the initial energy
stored = 4.58 x 10-9 J

Page 62 of 76
3

(d) showing a linear decrease and increase ✔

points correct at 0, 180 and 360 degrees ✔

Ignore graph beyond 360 degrees

(e) Insert dielectric between plates/attach dielectric to one plate

OR reduce air gap explained ✔

Dielectric has εr = 4 ✔

air gap reduced to ¼ ✔

1st mark for quantitative answer for air gap or dielectric or
both.
(Allow: more plates when explained)
2nd and 3rd marks for numerical analysis for air gap and
dielectric change. Do not allow incorrect physics.
3
[12]

Q39.
(a) tick in first box (2.7 V) ✔
[cao]
1

(b) move position until needle / pointer hides / is aligned with its reflection in
the mirror or wtte 1✔
for 1✔ allow ‘view scale so needle / pointer hides reflection’;
condone ‘there is no reflection’

this reduces / eliminates parallax error

to ensure scale is read from directly above 2✔

for 2✔ reject ‘reduces / eliminates human error’
allow ‘reading is made when at right angles’ / ‘perpendicular
to the scale’;
reject ‘view scale at eye level’ / ‘so not looking at an angle’ /
‘so not looking straight at needle’
2

(c) average correct

Page 63 of 76
uncertainty in correct 1✔
for 1✔ average = 12.04 (s); reject 12.0
allow credit for correct seen in working for percentage
uncertainty;
uncertainty in (from half range) = 0.11 (s)
1

percentage uncertainty in correct 2✔

for 2✔ minimum 2 sf;
correct answer rounds to 0.91(4)%
1

(d) time constant =

expect 17.37 (s);

allow minimum 3 sf 17.4 / use of ln 2 = 0.69 for leading to
17.45;

reject use of = 12 leading to 17.31;

reject (ignoring −sign in result)

(e) ways ensure pd across C doesn’t exceed 3 V

before connecting C to X 1✔

as X is connected 2✔
for 1✔ discharge C / connect flying lead to Y / ‘reset to 0 V’
(before reconnecting);
reject ‘reset equipment’
for 2✔ reduce the output pd / socket X (or wtte) to ≤ 3 V (then
reconnect C and adjust pd so meter reads full-scale);
reject ‘only charge C to 3 V’
idea of adding resistance to limit pd is neutral
Max 3

suggests timing for ∆V > 1.5 V or wtte 3a✔

take repeated readings (of or time constant);

any valid processing eg calculate an average value / reject anomalies / check

results are concordant or wtte 3b✔

check / correct / compensate for any zero error (on the voltmeter) 4✔

Page 64 of 76
suggests a valid quantitative test of theory by comparison with the result obtained
using the 15 V range 5✔
for 3a✔ accept ‘increase timing interval’ / time for concurrent
half lives or wtte;
reject ‘measure time for C to fully discharge’
for 3b✔ accept ‘repeat the experiment and calculate a mean’
only if this refers to
reject ‘repeat etc to get more reliable result’
for 4✔ accept ‘check etc for systematic error’
‘student’ is repeating previous experiment so reject idea of
making V the dependent variable / plot V against t / using
data logging
(theory will be correct if) half-life / time constant is one fifth /
20% (of previous value) / about 3.5 s / time constant reduced
by 80% / ratio of time constant to range / ratio of half-life to
range is same / similar
reject ‘plot ln V against t, find (−gradient−1)’
1

(f) in answer space 1:

any valid comment about the values of V in Table 2 1✔

corresponding explanation 2✔ (contingent on 1✔)

give credit for any good physics, eg
V recorded to nearest volt 1✔
because of (low) scale resolution / hard to interpolate
between markings; reject ‘values easier to plot’ 2✔

in answer space 2:

different valid comment about the values of V in Table 2 3✔

corresponding explanation 4✔ (contingent on 3✔)

different / decreasing intervals between values of V / more
lower values of V 3✔
to make intervals between t readings about the same / or
wtte; allow ‘to distribute data on graph’ or wtte / to allow
(convenient interval for) t to be read / recorded 4✔

only credit one comment and explanation per answer space

comments about the number of data sets are neutral

no readings for V < 2 V / smallest V = 2 V 5✔
because difficult to establish exact moment to read
stopwatch / needle is moving too slowly / sensible comment
about parallax 6✔
V data over wide range / from 14 to 2 (V) 7✔
to maximise evidence available (for graph / Figure 8) or wtte
8✔

no readings for V > 14 V / largest V = 14 V 9✔

Page 65 of 76
can begin discharge C before starting stopwatch 10✔
4

(g) attempts gradient calculation using ∆ln(V / V) divided by ∆t;

use of
for 1a✔ expected gradient is −0.077;
condone one read-off error in gradient calculation or missing
sign;
allow any subject / (at least) substitution of their gradient into
a valid calculation for R
condone missing / wrong POT for capacitance

reads off ln V0, ln V and corresponding ∆t from Figure 3;

use of
for 1b✔ condone one read off error;
allow any subject / (at least) substitution of all their data into
a valid calculation for R
condone missing / wrong POT for capacitance
1b✔variation below:

reads off ln V0 and finds V0 = 14.1 (V);

reads of ln 5.2 = 1.65; ∆t ≈ 13 (s)

valid working leading to

voltmeter resistance ≥ 3 sf in range 15.0 kΩ to 16.6 kΩ 2✔

voltmeter resistance ≥ 3 sf in range 15.5 kΩ to 16.1 kΩ 3✔

accept > 3 sf that rounds to 3 sf in range
allow 23✔ = 1 MAX for POT error
allow 123✔ = 1 MAX for using Table 2 data
3

(h) reads ln(V10 / V) from Figure 8;

deduces V10 in range 6.36 to 6.69 (V) 1✔

for 1✔ V10 to ≥ 3 sf required;
accept > 3 sf that rounds to 3 sf in range;
accept V0 from ln V0 read off and V10 deduced

from
condone use of V0 = 15(V);
if V10 is not recorded allow 1✔ for use of in the

Page 66 of 76
calculation of I10 where ln(V10 / V) is in the range 1.85 to 1.90
1

≥ 2 sf result in range 3.9 to 4.3 × 10−4 (A) 2✔

for 2✔ allow use of resistance = 16 × 103 (Ω);
accept ≥ 3 sf result that rounds to 2 sf in range
allow ECF if V10 is correctly obtained from an incorrect
ln(V10 / V) read off and I10

1
[19]

Q40.
D

[1]

Page 67 of 76
Examiner reports

Q1.
This was the easiest question in the test, with a facility of 86%. The candidates were
obviously competent when applying the equations C = Q/V and E = ½ CV2 to find the
capacitance and energy stored from data on the graph of charge against pd.

Q2.
It was satisfying to see so many excellent answers to a question on a subject area that
has caused problems in the recent past, and also on those sections testing parts of the
specification dealing with the mathematics of exponential discharge, which have been re-
introduced at A level. Part (a) only seemed to trouble those candidates who had not learnt
Q = CV, together with those who did not know that 1 μF = 10-6 F. When finding the stored
energy in part (b), many more candidates realised that E = ½CV2 is a safer approach than
E = ½QV, but the latter equation also provided a large number of correct answers.
Three alternative routes were possible when answering part (c). Most candidates
preferred to start from the exponential decay equation (either in terms of V or in terms of
Q), substituted values, took logs and proceeded to a solution. It was pleasing that so
many succeeded. The most elegant solutions came from the candidates who knew that
the charge stored falls to (1 / e) of the initial charge in a time equal to the time constant.
Solutions that made use of the gradient of the initial section of the graph were exceedingly
rare. Part (d) was usually well rewarded in most scripts, with candidates working from their
knowledge of the time constant as RC.

Q3.
This question was often well answered, with marks of 9 or 10 frequently being awarded.
Part (a) (ii) proved troublesome for most. Although almost all candidates recognised that V
= Q/C would lead to a straight line through the origin, relatively few were sufficiently alert
to spot that the gradient was 1/C; a far more popular choice was C. Most knew that the
area represented energy (or work done).

In part (b), the two resistors in parallel posed a problem for some, but there were many
correct solutions to (b) (i). The principal errors in (b) (ii) were to take the wrong resistance
value (11.2 kΩ instead of 2.8 kΩ), or to use the wrong time (40 s instead of 14 s), or both.
The sketch graphs in (b) (iii) were often drawn well, even by some candidates who had
not been successful with the previous calculations. Examiners were expecting the
exponential decay curve to start at t = 0 and to become steeper after a discontinuity at t =
26 s. Some candidates drew a linear decay graph, whilst others showed an exponential
curve passing continuously through t = 26s.

Q4.
The constant current idea also cropped up in this question, which was rather more
demanding. Combining Q = CV with Q = I t, and appreciating that Q will fall by 10% when
V falls by 10%, ought to have brought a satisfactory outcome. Just about half of the
candidates succeeded with this, and wrong answers were mostly split between distractors
B and C.

Q5.

Page 68 of 76
For part (a), most candidates knew the definition of capacitance, but frequently omitted
the 4.2 μC per V aspect.

There was a variety of techniques used in part (b) (i) but most answers were complete.

In part (b) (ii), nearly all candidates recognised that B had a smaller capacitance than A
but most answers only gained a single mark for stating that the discharge happens faster
in B without explaining why this meant that the capacitance was smaller.

Few candidates correctly calculated the change in energy in part (c) – most used ½ QV
but did not calculate the values of Q and V before and afterwards.

Q6.
This question, about factors affecting time constant in an RC circuit, was the easiest of the
three with a facility of 75%.

Q7.
The data used in this question is realistic. A low voltage 70 F capacitor is available for
back-up purposes, and there is a rechargeable cell with the specification quoted. Part (a)
(i) was readily answered by the application of ½ CV2. The choice of an inappropriate
number of significant figures, typically three, caused the loss of a mark. Candidates
should realise that a final value should only be quoted to two significant figures when the
data in the question is given to no more than two significant figures.

Part (a)(ii) was answered poorly, usually because the calculation was approached from
the capacitor energy equation (½ QV), instead of that giving the energy delivered by a cell
(QV). Examiners were ready to penalise the candidates who, having started from the
wrong principle, introduced a mysterious factor of two in order to show that the energy
stored was 50× greater, rather than 25× greater.

In part (b) candidates’ responses were often inadequate because of incompleteness,

and/or an inability to express ideas sufficiently clearly. It was expected that satisfactory
answers would relate to the use of the capacitor in a cordless telephone. ‘A capacitor
discharges quickly’ is an incomplete answer; ‘a capacitor would need recharging
frequently’ or ‘a capacitor would only power the phone for a short time’ were much more
explicit in the context of the question. Other acceptable answers were that a 70 F
capacitor would be too large to fit in the telephone, or that the voltage supplied by it would
decrease continuously whilst in use.

Q8.
In this question, candidates were required to determine the value of the time constant of
an RC circuit from data on a Q - t graph. The answer could be found in various ways.
Perhaps the quickest was to read off the time at which the charge had fallen to Q0/e, 0.036
µC, but many candidates would have resorted to substituting values into Q = Q0e-t/RC.
Almost 70% of responses were correct. The remaining five questions were all set on
section 3.4.5 of the specification, magnetic fields.

Q9.
Most students made progress with part (a) and a majority of the students gained full
marks.

Part (b) was not done well. Few could provide a complete response and some confused
charging and discharging.

Page 69 of 76
Few could cope with all the steps necessary to arrive at the correct answer to part (c).

There were surprisingly few correct responses to part (d) (i) and part (d) (ii) was not done
well.
The number of seconds in a year is on the Data and Formulae Booklet but many tried
unsuccessfully to calculate it. Few seemed familiar with the unit Ah (ampere–hour).

Q10.
This question was more demanding, with a facility of 49%. Here the energy and voltage of
a capacitor had to be considered when the charge is increased by half; distractors A and B
each attracted over 20% of the responses.

Q11.
This question involved finding the current when a capacitor is charged using a constant
current, by combining Q = CV and Q = I t. 68% of candidates chose the correct
alternative.

Q12.
Part (a) required the evaluation of the time constant of an RC circuit from data on a graph
of charge against time. This proved to be an easy test, and marks were high. The most
economical solution followed from recognising that the charge falls to (1/e) of its initial
value in a time equal to the time constant, or from appreciating that Q0 becomes Q0/2 in a
time equal to ln 2 RC. More extensive answers that relied on a solution of Q = Q0e-t / RC
were less common; in these it was essential for candidates to show their working correctly
for full marks to be accessible. A few candidates knew that the time constant is equal to
the time at which the capacitor would have discharged completely had the initial current
been maintained. Therefore they drew a tangent to the curve at t = 0, continued the line to
the time axis and then determined the required value by reading off the time.

Careless use of the language of physical quantities was sometimes an obstacle to

progress in part (b). Loose terms such as “the current flows more quickly” (when the
resistance is less) should be avoided: the candidate should have stated that the current is
greater, or that more charge passes per second. The key to success in this part was to
understand the meaning of a rate of change. Those who stated that the current is larger,
and that current is the rate of flow of charge, readily scored both marks. Answers which
stated that the time constant would be decreased were also accepted but it was then
necessary to make reference to the implications, from Q = Q0e-t/RC, for the second mark to
be awarded.

Q13.
Good definitions of capacitance were usually seen in part (a), leading to an easily gained
couple of marks. Vague statements such as ‘capacitance is a measure of the ability to
store charge’ went unrewarded.

Part (b) caused very few problems, apart from those arising from careless arithmetic or
misunderstood powers of 10. In part (b) (iv) it was expected that students would identify
the gradient with current; ‘rate of charging’ seemed too obvious for the mark to be given.

The maximum value of the current could be found directly in part (c) (i) by applying I =
V/R, where V is the emf of the battery and R is the resistance of the resistor. No doubt it
was the previous part of this question that directed so many students to base their
response on the initial slope of the graph. This was equally acceptable, and a wide

Page 70 of 76
tolerance was placed on answers arrived at by this technique. The sketch graphs in part
(c) (iii) were often too careless to deserve full credit. This exponential decay curve should
start at an intersection with the current axis (with Imax marked as required) and should be
asymptotic to the time axis. More able students realised that the gradient of this Q-t graph
in part (b) was practically zero at t = 60 ms, and that the current should therefore be very
close to zero at this time. There were many answers showing a current that increased with
time, and many others that had a constant negative gradient.

Q14.
This question was a simple test of conservation of energy in the context of energy storage
by a capacitor. The question had a facility of 69% and was the most discriminating
question in the test

Q15.
The relationship defining capacitance, C = Q/V, was involved in This question (facility
79%). Distractor C in the latter is clearly a correct statement; no doubt it was misreading
of the question (an incorrect statement was required) that caused 30% of the students to
choose it.

Q16.
The connection between the pd applied across a capacitor and the energy it stores was
the subject of this question Almost three-quarters of the students were able to see that a
100:1 capacitance ratio would imply a 1:100 ratio for V2 if the energy was to be the
same.The students in 2012 found.

Q17.
The majority of answers to part (a)(i) showed that most students realised that an accurate
value for the capacitance could not be obtained from the graph by using one point alone.
Those who thought otherwise were limited to one mark only. In part (a)(ii) the additional
energy stored by the capacitor when the pd is raised from 9.0 V to 12.0 V could be found
either by an area calculation or by the application of an appropriate formula. The correct
area is that enclosed by the line between 9.0 V and 12.0 V and either of the axes. This
can be calculated in several ways, typically (area of rectangle + triangle) or (area of
trapezium). When attempting this, many students did not take account of the fact that the
figure did not include the origin of the axes, often ending up with (area of triangle) only.
The more popular approaches were undoubtedly by formula. Here, again, a large
proportion of responses were incorrect because they relied upon ½ C (V2 – V1)2 or its
equivalent rather than on ½ C (V22 – V12).

The principal error in part (b)(i) was to misunderstand the data by using 0.8 V0 instead of
0.2 V0 as the pd after 45 s; those who did this could be awarded one compensation mark
only. Otherwise, many very competent answers with fully correct exponential solutions
were seen. R = T / C was usually then applied correctly in part (b)(i) to find the resistance,
although a few students wrongly substituted 8.1 μF, from part (a), instead of the given 470
μF.

Over 60% of the responses to part (b)(iii) were correct.

Q18.
Capacitors were the topic tested by this question. The question needed knowledge of how
to apply Q = I t for a constant current, C = Q / V and energy stored = ½ CV . Three
2

Page 71 of 76
quarters of the candidates succeeded.

Q19.
This question has been used to test candidates in earlier years. The former one showed
an improvement in facility and the latter one a deterioration. This question, which had a
facility this time of 76%, was a calculation on capacitor discharge. It could be answered
either by full solution of the exponential decay equation, or having recognised that the
situation is equivalent to “half-life”, by using t = RC ln 2.

Q20.
This question was about charge-time and current-time graphs for a capacitor being
charged through a resistor. The facility of the question, at 63%, hardly changed from the
value obtained when used previously. Even the barest acquaintance with capacitors
should have indicated to students that the charge must increase (graph 2) and also that,
because charge cannot flow permanently through a capacitor, the current must fall to zero
(graph 1). However, 16% of responses were for distractor C, where both charge and
current increase with time.

Q21.
This question was a direct test of energy storage by a capacitor using ½ CV2. The facility
was 73% and the question discriminated reasonably well.

Q22.
The capacitance calculation in part (a)(i) rewarded most students with full marks. Answers
to part (a)(ii) made a distinct contrast, because relatively few students were able to
progress. Correct answers were rare. The circuit in Figure 1 is one in which the current is
maintained constant by reducing the resistance as the capacitor is charged. Consequently
the large number of attempted solutions that introduced exponential decay equations were
totally inappropriate. An understanding of the principle that in a series circuit the sum of
the voltages across components is equal to the applied voltage was essential. Many of the
efforts progressed as far as establishing that the pd across the capacitor at 30 s would be
2.2V, but then went on to find what is effectively “the resistance of the capacitor” by
dividing 2.2V by the current.

The final question in this examination, part (b), concerned a C-R circuit is which R is
constant and charging / discharging are exponential processes. Apart from testing this
subject content, the question was also used to assess the communications skills of the
students. The guidance given in the bullet points helped most students to organise their
answers systematically. A very good spread of marks was seen, ranging from students
who clearly knew everything that happens during charging and discharging to ones who
understood little or nothing about capacitors. A large number of correct statements about
the factors listed in the bullet points for both charging and discharging constituted a high
level answer (5 / 6 marks). Fewer correct statements about either charging or discharging
put answers into the intermediate level (3 / 4 marks) whilst even fewer correct statements
put answers into the low level (1 / 2 marks). Contributing also to the overall assessment
was examiners’ consideration of the incorrect statements made in the answers, and how
satisfactorily the answers had been had been written. There were many instances of
answers in which it was stated that electrons passed directly from plate Q across the gap
to plate P – these tended to condemn the knowledge of the student concerned. A common
misapprehension concerning this circuit was that the reduction in current is caused by an
increase in the resistance of the capacitor rather than by a decrease in the net potential
difference as the capacitor charges or discharges. A large proportion of the students

Page 72 of 76
chose to ignore the advice given to refer in their answers to points A, B, P and Q in the
circuit. This omission usually made their answers somewhat more difficult to assess.

Q23.
This question tested students’ understanding of exponential decay as well as energy
storage. The “half value period” of the RC circuit was 36ms; in this time the pd would
decrease to V / 2 and the energy stored would fall to E / 4. In a further 36ms the energy
stored would fall to E / 16. 62% of the responses were correct. Distractor C was selected
by 17% of the students.

Q24.
(a) (i) This calculation was very well done with over 90% of candidates able to
complete it successfully. Mistakes seen were mostly power of ten errors on the
value of the capacitor (3 × 10−3 often quoted).

(ii) The majority of candidates were able to achieve at least 2 marks. Of course,
many candidates attempted to draw discharge curves instead of the required
straight line. Candidates should treat these graphs with caution and be aware
of the Q∝ V is always directly proportional irrespective of charging and
discharging.

(b) There were lots of mistakes in this calculation. The most common error was the use

of E = CV2 where candidates substituted ΔV = 1.3 V into this formula, effectively

calculating

1.32 instead of calculating 2.52 × 1.22. Another common mistake seen was treating Q

as a constant in the equation E= QV , that is E = × 7.2 × 10−6×ΔV

(c) (i) A common mistake seen here was the use of the wrong formula, a significant
number of candidates chose to use = 0.69 RC even though the fall in
voltage was not quite 50%. Other candidates selected the correct formula but
then had difficulty in their rearranging of the formula; many made the mistake

of misplacing C in the rearrangement of the equation: R = instead of

(ii) Candidates found this explanation difficult, with only the best candidates able
to deliver a detailed, coherent response. Most answers were limited to less
charge less potential difference arguments rather than dealing with the rate
aspect of the question.

Q26.

Page 73 of 76
When the capacitance of the charged, isolated variable capacitor in this question has its
capacitance reduced, the pd across it must increase so that the charge (= C V) remains
unchanged. 69% of the students appreciated this, giving C as their answer. The remaining
responses were fairly evenly distributed amongst the other three distractors.

Q27.
(a) Most students found the calculation to be quite straight forward with very few ‘power
of ten’ issues. 84% arrived at the correct answer.

(b) Just under half of the students (46%) were able to transfer the written properties
from the stem into the voltage-time diagram.

(c) A surprising number of students did not open with a statement to say that ‘if the PRF
is x4, then the effective R must be ¼ value’. This should then have triggered a
parallel resistor calculation as a means of adding a resistor to reduce the total
resistance. 50% of students gained at least one of the two marks available. In
general, it is important that multi-step calculations are carefully set out and
explained to make sure that students can target all marks.

(d) This question proved to be quite demanding and required students to pull in
information from a number of areas. The key was to appreciate that the tC = ¾ T and
tD = ¼ T
For many, the calculation evolved without a clear plan. However, one mark was
available for making significant headway towards the solution. Only 24% of students
gained both marks here.

(e) The graph was generally drawn well, although still only accessed by 56% of the
students. Some missed out on a mark either because they forgot that the amplitude
was 5 V, or got the mark–space ratio wrong.

Q31.
(a) A majority of students knew that capacitance relates to charge and pd. Marks were
missed simply because of missed detail such as using appropriate units. Also, some
scripts lacked a sense of explanation. ‘Charge per volt’, leaves off the essential fact
that the charge is stored. 79% of students scored at least one mark here.

(b) This was an easy question for most students; nearly 90% wrote the correct answer.

(c) This question discriminated well, with a majority of students knowing what the
growth graph should look like. Some showed a lack of care in reading the vertical
scale and placed the X above 9V. Others drew the curve with a flattened top or
showing a slight peak. Some of the weaker students elected to draw an exponential
decay type graph.

(d) This was another straightforward calculation which a majority of students (55.4%)
could do well. However, a significant minority did not know the simple equation for
the half-life.

(e) This was quite a difficult exponential calculation so it was encouraging to see well
over half of the students scoring at least one mark. Most students can clearly deal
with this type of exponential equation and cope with the re-arrangements and
calculation. The common error made by others was to try to use an exponential
decay equation rather than an exponential charging equation. These students were
able to score marks by evaluating the maximum charge. Overall, it was more
common for students to use the charge equation rather than the voltage equation.

Page 74 of 76
Nearly 8% of students made no attempt at this question.

Q38.
(a) Fewer than 10% of students answered this question correctly by making clear
reference to the material between the electrodes of a capacitor. Other responses often
referred wrongly to charge, to energy or to voltage changes.

(b) The forces acting on the charges of the polar molecules were mentioned by many, but

few went on to discuss molecular alignment. The equation was often quoted, but
the last mark was missed because few students recognised that the charge is constant for
an isolated capacitor.

(c) About half of the students could calculate the initial stored energy from the standard
equation but the majority failed to calculate the final stored energy correctly. Most did not
realise that the capacitance increases by a factor of 6 and chose to increase either the
charge or the energy by this factor.

(d) Most attempts at drawing the sketch were reasonable and showed a general shape,
but students failed to gain marks through lack of care and through failing to draw straight
lines.

(e) Most students did not respond to the words ‘Explain with numerical detail’. They
appeared to think that just stating the value of the change would gain the marks. This was
the reason why marks were low for this question part.

Q39.
This question was set in the context of Required Practical Activity 9.

In question (a) more students chose the distractor 13.5 than the correct value of (g),
suggesting that many did not appreciate the distinction between ‘more sensitive’ and ‘less
sensitive’.

Question (b) is a question used in an earlier series. Some students improvised answers
such as ‘the mirror was used to illuminate the scale to eliminate human error’. Only 10%
could supply a completely correct answer.

Question (c) was poorly answered in comparison with similar examples in previous
papers, with many failing to halve the range before calculating the percentage uncertainty.

In question (e) most found that the space provided was adequate for them to complete
their answer; those who needed supplementary pages usually included information
already provided in the question. Many could suggest something sensible about meter
protection, checking that C was discharged being the most popular idea. Some
recognised the advantage of timing for longer but suggested impractical ideas such as
‘measure the time for C to fully discharge’ or ‘add a resistor to the circuit’. Few could state
how they would test for any relationship between range and time constant. Weaker
students wrote that they would check whether the half life was 2.5 s.

More than half were able to score one mark in question (f) by making at least one relevant
observation about the values of V in Table 2, although finding an explanation to back up
their observation was a harder proposition.

In question (g) at least 30% knew how to find the voltmeter resistance (as per page 116 of
the physics practical handbook). However, half of the students, despite often obtaining

Page 75 of 76
relevant data from Figure 8, then failed to make enough progress to score.

In question (h) it was surprising to find that many, having correctly read relevant

information from Figure 8, then attempted to calculate the current using

Q40.
The success rate on almost all the multiple-choice questions was between 25% and 55%.
Questions that were noticeably more straightforward than this were B7, B14, B19 and
B29. Only questions B22 and B23 proved to be accessible to less than 25% of students.

Page 76 of 76

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