Three- and four-mark questions
These are similar to one- and two-mark questions but you will be expected to write in more depth for three- and four-mark questions.
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Sample question 1 - Foundation
Question
The figure below shows a coil of wire in a circuit:
On the figure above, draw the magnetic field due to the current in the coil. [3 marks]
The magnetic field should show:
- parallel field lines through the wire coil [1]
- field lines curving round the top and bottom of the wire coil [1]
- arrows indicating the direction from North to South [1]
Sample question 2 - Higher
Question
A teacher used the equipment shown in the image below to demonstrate the motor effect.
Describe how Fleming’s left-hand rule can be used to determine the direction in which the rod will move when the switch is closed, and state the direction. [3 marks]
A strong answer will be clearly worded and include at least three of the following points:
- thumb, index finger and third finger are held mutually at right angles
- index finger shows the direction of the magnetic field from North to South
- third finger shows the direction of the current from positive to negative terminal
- the thumb then shows the direction of the force acting on the copper rod
- so the copper rod will move from left to right
[3]
Sample question 3 - Higher
Question
In a scrapyard, an electromagnet is used to lift and release cars so they can be moved around.
Suggest two ways a solenoid could be made to lift and release cars in a scrapyard.
Explain why each suggestion would be useful in the scrapyard. [2 marks]
Any two of the following:
- use a long, tightly coiled wire to give a strong magnetic field
- add an iron core to increase the effect of the field
- include a switch in the circuit so it can pick up/drop cars
[2]
It’s important that you mention the effect of each suggestion.
Sample question 4 - Higher
Question
The figure below shows the ignition circuit used to switch the starter motor in a car on.
The circuit includes an electromagnetic switch:
Explain how the ignition circuit works. [4 marks]
A strong answer will be clearly worded with good use of scientific key words and will include any four points from:
- closing the (ignition) switch causes a current to pass through the electromagnet
- the iron core becomes magnetised
- the electromagnet attracts the iron arm
- the iron arm pushes the starter motor contacts together
- the starter motor circuit is complete
- a current flows through the starter motor (which then turns)
[4]