4.

4 extended question-MS [144

marks]

Two loudspeakers, A and B, are driven in phase and with the same amplitude at a
frequency of 850 Hz. Point P is located 22. 5 m from A and 24. 3 m from B. The
speed of sound is 340 m s−1 .

1a. Deduce that a minimum intensity of sound is heard at P. [4 marks]

Markscheme
wavelength= 340
850
= 0. 40 «m»✓

path difference = 1. 8 «m» ✓

1.8
1. 8 «m» = 4. 5λ OR 0.20
= 9 «half-wavelengths» ✓

waves meet in antiphase «at P»

OR
destructive interference/superposition «at P» ✓

Allow approach where path length is calculated in terms of number of

wavelengths; along path A (56. 25) and
path B (60. 75) for MP2, hence path difference 4. 5 wavelengths for MP3

Examiners report
[N/A]
1b. A microphone moves along the line from P to Q. PQ is normal to the line [2 marks]
midway between the loudspeakers.

The intensity of sound is detected by the microphone. Predict the variation of

detected intensity as the microphone moves from P to Q.

Markscheme
«equally spaced» maxima and minima ✓
a maximum at Q ✓
four «additional» maxima «between P and Q» ✓

Examiners report
[N/A]
1c. When both loudspeakers are operating, the intensity of sound recorded [2 marks]
at Q is I0 . Loudspeaker B is now disconnected. Loudspeaker A continues
to emit sound with unchanged amplitude and frequency. The intensity of sound
recorded at Q changes to IA .
IA
Estimate .
I0

Markscheme
the amplitude of sound at Q is halved ✓
IA 1
«intensity is proportional to amplitude squared hence»
I0
= 4
✓

Examiners report
[N/A]
2a. Deduce that a minimum intensity of sound is heard at P. [4 marks]

Markscheme
wavelength= 340
850
= 0. 40 «m» ✓

path difference = 1. 8 «m» ✓

1.8
1. 8 «m» = 4. 5λ OR 0.20
= 9  «half-wavelengths» ✓

waves meet in antiphase «at P»

OR
destructive interference/superposition «at P» ✓

Allow approach where path length is calculated in terms of number of

wavelengths; along path A (56. 25) and
path B (60. 75) for MP2, hence path difference 4. 5 wavelengths for MP3

Examiners report
This was answered very well, with those not scoring full marks able to, at
least, calculate the wavelength.
2b. A microphone moves along the line from P to Q. PQ is normal to the line [2 marks]
midway between the loudspeakers.

The intensity of sound is detected by the microphone. Predict the variation of

detected intensity as the microphone moves from P to Q.

Markscheme
«equally spaced» maxima and minima ✓
a maximum at Q ✓
four «additional» maxima «between P and Q» ✓

Examiners report
Most candidates were able to score at least one mark by referring to a
maximum at Q.
2c. When both loudspeakers are operating, the intensity of sound recorded [2 marks]
at Q is I0 . Loudspeaker B is now disconnected. Loudspeaker A continues
to emit sound with unchanged amplitude and frequency. The intensity of sound
recorded at Q changes to IA .
IA
Estimate .
I0

Markscheme
the amplitude of sound at Q is halved ✓
IA 1
«intensity is proportional to amplitude squared hence»
I0
= 4
✓

Examiners report
Most candidates earned 2 marks or nothing. A common answer was that
intensity was 1/2 the original.

In another experiment, loudspeaker A is stationary and emits sound with a

frequency of 850 Hz. The microphone is moving directly away from the
loudspeaker with a constant speed v. The frequency of sound recorded by the
microphone is 845 Hz.

2d. Explain why the frequency recorded by the microphone is lower than the [2 marks]
frequency emitted by the loudspeaker.
 Markscheme
speed of sound relative to the microphone is less ✓
wavelength unchanged «so frequency is lower»
OR
fewer waves recorded in unit time/per second «so frequency is lower» ✓

Examiners report
HL only. The majority of candidates answered this by describing the Doppler
Effect for a moving source. Others reworded the question without adding any
explanation. Correct explanations were rare.

2e. Calculate v. [2 marks]

Markscheme
340−v
845 = 850 × 340
✓

v = 2. 00 «m s−1 » ✓

Examiners report
HL only. This was answered well with the majority of candidates able to
identify the correct formula and the correct values to substitute.
 A beam of microwaves is incident normally on a pair of identical narrow slits S1
and S2.

When a microwave receiver is initially placed at W which is equidistant from the

slits, a maximum in intensity is observed. The receiver is then moved towards Z
along a line parallel to the slits. Intensity maxima are observed at X and Y with
one minimum between them. W, X and Y are consecutive maxima.

3a. Explain why intensity maxima are observed at X and Y. [2 marks]

Markscheme
two waves superpose/mention of superposition/mention of «constructive»
interference ✔
they arrive in phase/there is a path length difference of an integer number of
wavelengths ✔
Ignore references to nodes/antinodes.
 Examiners report
Many candidates were able to discuss the interference that is taking place in
this question, but few were able to fully describe the path length difference.
That said, the quality of responses on this type of question seems to have
improved over the last few examination sessions with very few candidates
simply discussing the crests and troughs of waves.

3b. The distance from S1 to Y is 1.243 m and the distance from S2 to Y is [3 marks]
1.181 m.

Determine the frequency of the microwaves.

Markscheme
path difference = 0.062 «m» ✔
so wavelength = 0.031 «m» ✔
frequency = 9.7 × 109 «Hz» ✔
If no unit is given, assume the answer is in Hz. Accept other prefixes (eg 9.7
GHz)
Award [2 max] for 4.8 x 109 Hz.
 Examiners report
Many candidates struggled with this question. Few were able to calculate a
proper path length difference, and then use that to calculate the wavelength
and frequency. Many candidates went down blind paths of trying various
equations from the data booklet, and some seemed to believe that the
wavelength is just the reciprocal of the frequency.

3c. Outline one reason why the maxima observed at W, X and Y will have [1 mark]
different intensities from each other.

Markscheme
intensity varies with distance OR points are different distances from the slits
✔
Accept “Intensity is modulated by a single slit diffraction envelope”.

Examiners report
This is one of many questions on this paper where candidates wrote vague
answers that did not clearly connect to physics concepts or include key
information. There were many overly simplistic answers like “they are farther
away” without specifying what they are farther away from. Candidates should
be reminded that their responses should go beyond the obvious and include
some evidence of deeper understanding.
 The diagram shows the direction of a sound wave travelling in a metal sheet.

4a. Particle P in the metal sheet performs simple harmonic oscillations. [2 marks]
When the displacement of P is 3.2 μm the magnitude of its acceleration
is 7.9 m s-2. Calculate the magnitude of the acceleration of P when its
displacement is 2.3 μm.

Markscheme
Expression or statement showing acceleration is proportional to displacement
✔
so «7.9 × 2.3
3.2
» = 5.7«ms−2 » ✔

Examiners report
This was well answered at both levels.
4b. The wave is incident at point Q on the metal–air boundary. The wave [2 marks]
makes an angle of 54° with the normal at Q. The speed of sound in the
metal is 6010 m s–1 and the speed of sound in air is 340 m s–1. Calculate the angle
between the normal at Q and the direction of the wave in air.

Markscheme
340
sin θ = 6010
× sin 54∘ ✔
θ = 2.6° ✔

Examiners report
Many scored full marks on this question. Common errors were using the
calculator in radian mode or getting the equation upside down.

The frequency of the sound wave in the metal is 250 Hz.

4c. State the frequency of the wave in air. [1 mark]

Markscheme
f = 250 «Hz» OR Same OR Unchanged ✔
 Examiners report
Many used a ratio of the speeds to produce a new frequency of 14Hz (340 x
250/6010). It would have helped candidates if they had been aware that the
command term ‘state’ means ‘give a specific name, value or other brief
answer without explanation or calculation.’

4d. Determine the wavelength of the wave in air. [1 mark]

Markscheme
λ = « 340
250
= »1.36 ≈ 1.4«m» ✔

Examiners report
[N/A]

4e. The sound wave in air in (c) enters a pipe that is open at both ends. The [1 mark]
diagram shows the displacement, at a particular time T, of the standing
wave that is set up in the pipe.

On the diagram, at time T, label with the letter C a point in the pipe that is at the
centre of a compression.
Markscheme
any point labelled C on the vertical line shown below ✔
eg:

Examiners report
This was answered well at both levels.
 A beam of microwaves is incident normally on a pair of identical narrow slits S1
and S2.

When a microwave receiver is initially placed at W which is equidistant from the

slits, a maximum in intensity is observed. The receiver is then moved towards Z
along a line parallel to the slits. Intensity maxima are observed at X and Y with
one minimum between them. W, X and Y are consecutive maxima.

5a. Explain why intensity maxima are observed at X and Y. [2 marks]

Markscheme
two waves superpose/mention of superposition/mention of «constructive»
interference ✔
they arrive in phase/there is a path length difference of an integer number of
wavelengths ✔
 Examiners report
Many candidates were able to discuss the interference that is taking place in
this question, but few were able to fully describe the path length difference.
That said, the quality of responses on this type of question seems to have
improved over the last few examination sessions with very few candidates
simply discussing the crests and troughs of waves.

5b. The distance from S1 to Y is 1.243 m and the distance from S2 to Y is [3 marks]
1.181 m.
Determine the frequency of the microwaves.

Markscheme
path difference = 0.062 «m»✔
so wavelength = 0.031 «m»✔
frequency = 9.7 × 109 «Hz»✔
Award [2 max] for 4.8 x 109 Hz.
 Examiners report
Many candidates struggled with this question. Few were able to calculate a
proper path length difference, and then use that to calculate the wavelength
and frequency. Many candidates went down blind paths of trying various
equations from the data booklet, and some seemed to believe that the
wavelength is just the reciprocal of the frequency.

5c. Outline one reason why the maxima observed at W, X and Y will have [1 mark]
different intensities from each other.

Markscheme
intensity is modulated by a single slit diffraction envelope OR
intensity varies with distance OR points are different distances from the slits ✔

Examiners report
This is one of many questions on this paper where candidates wrote vague
answers that did not clearly connect to physics concepts or include key
information. There were many overly simplistic answers like “they are farther
away” without specifying what they are farther away from. Candidates should
be reminded that their responses should go beyond the obvious and include
some evidence of deeper understanding.

5d. The microwaves emitted by the transmitter are horizontally polarized. [2 marks]
The microwave receiver contains a polarizing filter. When the receiver is
at position W it detects a maximum intensity.
The receiver is then rotated through 180° about the horizontal dotted line passing
through the microwave transmitter. Sketch a graph on the axes provided to show
the variation of received intensity with rotation angle.
Markscheme

cos2 variation shown ✔

with zero at 90° (by eye) ✔
Award [1 max] for an inverted curve with maximum at 90°.
 Examiners report
This question was generally well answered, with many candidates at least
recognizing that the intensity would decrease to zero at 90 degrees. Many
struggled with the exact shape of the graph, though, and some drew a graph
that extended below zero showing a lack of understanding of what was being
graphed.

The diagram shows the direction of a sound wave travelling in a metal sheet.

6a. Particle P in the metal sheet performs simple harmonic oscillations. [2 marks]
When the displacement of P is 3.2 μm the magnitude of its acceleration
is 7.9 m s-2. Calculate the magnitude of the acceleration of P when its
displacement is 2.3 μm.

Markscheme
Expression or statement showing acceleration is proportional to displacement
✔
so «7.9 × 2.3
3.2
» = 5.7«ms–2» ✔
 Examiners report
This was well answered at both levels.

6b. The wave is incident at point Q on the metal–air boundary. The wave [2 marks]
makes an angle of 54° with the normal at Q. The speed of sound in the
metal is 6010 m s–1 and the speed of sound in air is 340 m s–1. Calculate the angle
between the normal at Q and the direction of the wave in air.

Markscheme
340
sin θ = 6010
× sin 540 ✔
0
θ = 2.6 ✔

Examiners report
Many scored full marks on this question. Common errors were using the
calculator in radian mode or getting the equation upside down.
6c. The frequency of the sound wave in the metal is 250 Hz. Determine the [1 mark]
wavelength of the wave in air.

Markscheme
λ = « 340
250
= »1.36 ≈ 1.4«m» ✔

Examiners report
This was very well answered.
 The sound wave in air in (c) enters a pipe that is open at both ends. The diagram
shows the displacement, at a particular time T, of the standing wave that is set up
in the pipe.

A particular air molecule has its equilibrium position at the point labelled M.

6d. On the diagram, at time T, draw an arrow to indicate the acceleration of [1 mark]
this molecule.

Markscheme
horizontal arrow «at M» pointing left ✔

Examiners report
Very few candidates could interpret this situation and most arrows were
shown in a vertical plane.

6e. On the diagram, at time T, label with the letter C a point in the pipe that [1 mark]
is at the centre of a compression.
 Markscheme
any point labelled C on the vertical line shown below ✔
eg:

Examiners report
This was answered well at both levels.

Sound of frequency f = 2500 Hz is emitted from an aircraft that moves with speed
v = 280 m s–1 away from a stationary observer. The speed of sound in still air is c
= 340 m s–1.

6f. Calculate the frequency heard by the observer. [2 marks]

 Markscheme
340
f ′ = 2500 × 340+280
✔

f ′ = 1371 ≈ 1400«Hz» ✔

Examiners report
This was answered well with the most common mistake being to swap the
speed of sound and the speed of the aircraft.

6g. Calculate the wavelength measured by the observer. [1 mark]

Markscheme
340
λ′ = 1371
≈ 0.24/0.25«m» ✔

Examiners report
Answered well with ECF often being awarded to those who answered the
previous part incorrectly.
 Monochromatic coherent light is incident on two parallel slits of negligible width a
distance d apart. A screen is placed a distance D from the slits. Point M is directly
opposite the midpoint of the slits.

Initially the lower slit is covered and the intensity of light at M due to the upper slit
alone is 22 W m-2. The lower slit is now uncovered.

7a. Deduce, in W m -2, the intensity at M. [3 marks]

Markscheme
there is constructive interference at M
OR
the amplitude doubles at M ✔
intensity is «proportional to» amplitude2 ✔
88 «W m−2» ✔
 Examiners report
This was generally well answered by those who attempted it but was the
question that was most left blank. The most common mistake was the
expected one of simply doubling the intensity.

7b. P is the first maximum of intensity on one side of M. The following data [2 marks]
are available.
d = 0.12 mm
D = 1.5 m
Distance MP = 7.0 mm
Calculate, in nm, the wavelength λ of the light.

Markscheme
sd 0.12×10−3×7.0×10−3
«s = λD
d
⇒ »λ = D
/ 1.5
✔

λ = 560«nm» ✔

Examiners report
This was very well answered. As the question asks for the answer to be given
in nm a bald answer of 560 was acceptable. Candidates could also gain credit
for an answer of e.g. 5.6 x 10-7 m provided that the m was included.
 The width of each slit is increased to 0.030 mm. D, d and λ remain the same.

7c. Suggest why, after this change, the intensity at P will be less than that at [1 mark]
M.

Markscheme
«the interference pattern will be modulated by»
single slit diffraction ✔
«envelope and so it will be less»

Examiners report
Many recognised the significance of the single slit diffraction envelope.

7d. Show that, due to single slit diffraction, the intensity at a point on the [2 marks]
screen a distance of 28 mm from M is zero.
Markscheme
ALTERNATIVE 1
28×10−3
the angular position of this point is θ = 1.5
= 0.01867«rad» ✔
which coincides with the first minimum of the diffraction envelope
λ 560×10−9
θ= = = 0.01867 «rad» ✔
b 0.030×10−3
«so intensity will be zero»
ALTERNATIVE 2
the first minimum of the diffraction envelope is at
λ 560×10−9
θ= = = 0.01867«rad» ✔
b 0.030×10−3
distance on screen is y = 1.50 × 0.01867 = 28«mm» ✔
«so intensity will be zero»

Examiners report
Credit was often gained here for a calculation of an angle for alternative 2 in
the markscheme but often the final substitution 1.50 was omitted to score the
second mark. Both marks could be gained if the calculation was done in one
step. Incorrect answers often included complicated calculations in an attempt
to calculate an integer value.
 A pipe is open at both ends. A first-harmonic standing wave is set up in the pipe.
The diagram shows the variation of displacement of air molecules in the pipe with
distance along the pipe at time t = 0. The frequency of the first harmonic is f.

8a. An air molecule is situated at point X in the pipe at t = 0. Describe the [2 marks]
motion of this air molecule during one complete cycle of the standing
wave beginning from t = 0.

Markscheme
«air molecule» moves to the right and then back to the left ✔
returns to X/original position ✔

Examiners report
[N/A]
8b. The speed of sound c for longitudinal waves in air is given by [3 marks]

c = √ Kρ
where ρ is the density of the air and K is a constant.
A student measures f to be 120 Hz when the length of the pipe is 1.4 m. The
density of the air in the pipe is 1.3 kg m–3. Determine, in kg m –1 s–2, the value of K
for air.

Markscheme
wavelength = 2 × 1.4 = «2.8 m» ✔
c = «f λ =» 120 × 2.8 «= 340 m s−1» ✔
K = «ρc2 = 1.3 × 3402 =» 1.5 × 105 ✔

Examiners report
[N/A]
 A transmitter of electromagnetic waves is next to a long straight vertical wall that
acts as a plane mirror to the waves. An observer on a boat detects the waves both
directly and as an image from the other side of the wall. The diagram shows one
ray from the transmitter reflected at the wall and the position of the image.

8c. Demonstrate, using a second ray, that the image appears to come from [1 mark]
the position indicated.

Markscheme
construction showing formation of image ✔
Another straight line/ray from image through the wall with line/ray from
intersection at wall back to transmitter. Reflected ray must intersect boat.

Examiners report
[N/A]
8d. Outline why the observer detects a series of increases and decreases in [2 marks]
the intensity of the received signal as the boat moves along the line XY.

Markscheme
interference pattern is observed
OR
interference/superposition mentioned ✔

maximum when two waves occur in phase/path difference is nλ

OR
minimum when two waves occur 180° out of phase/path difference is (n + ½)λ
✔

Examiners report
[N/A]

9a. Sketch, on the diagram, the variation of displacement of the air molecules[1 mark]
with distance along the pipe when t = 3 .
4f

Markscheme
horizontal line shown in centre of pipe ✔
 Examiners report
[N/A]

9b. An air molecule is situated at point X in the pipe at t = 0. Describe the [2 marks]
motion of this air molecule during one complete cycle of the standing
wave beginning from t = 0.

Markscheme
«air molecule» moves to the right and then back to the left ✔
returns to X/original position ✔

Examiners report
[N/A]
9c. The speed of sound c for longitudinal waves in air is given by [4 marks]

c = √ Kρ
where ρ is the density of the air and K is a constant.
A student measures f to be 120 Hz when the length of the pipe is 1.4 m. The
density of the air in the pipe is 1.3 kg m–3. Determine the value of K for air. State
your answer with the appropriate fundamental (SI) unit.

Markscheme
wavelength = 2 × 1.4 «= 2.8 m» ✔
c = «f λ =» 120 × 2.8 «= 340 m s−1» ✔
K = «ρc2 = 1.3 × 3402 =» 1.5 × 105 ✔
kg m –1 s–2 ✔

Examiners report
[N/A]

9d. Demonstrate, using a second ray, that the image appears to come from [1 mark]
the position indicated.
 Markscheme
construction showing formation of image ✔
Another straight line/ray from image through the wall with line/ray from
intersection at wall back to transmitter. Reflected ray must intersect boat.

Examiners report
[N/A]

9e. Outline why the observer detects a series of increases and decreases in [2 marks]
the intensity of the received signal as the boat moves along the line XY.

Markscheme
interference pattern is observed
OR
interference/superposition mentioned ✔

maximum when two waves occur in phase/path difference is nλ

OR
minimum when two waves occur 180° out of phase/path difference is (n + ½)λ
✔

Examiners report
[N/A]
 A beam of coherent monochromatic light from a distant galaxy is used in an optics
experiment on Earth.

The beam is incident normally on a double slit. The distance between the slits is
0.300 mm. A screen is at a distance D from the slits. The diffraction angle θ is
labelled.

10a. A series of dark and bright fringes appears on the screen. Explain how a [3 marks]
dark fringe is formed.

Markscheme
superposition of light from each slit / interference of light from both slits
with path/phase difference of any half-odd multiple of wavelength/any odd
multiple of π (in words or symbols)
producing destructive interference
Ignore any reference to crests and troughs.
[3 marks]

Examiners report
[N/A]
10b. The wavelength of the beam as observed on Earth is 633.0 nm. The [2 marks]
separation between a dark and a bright fringe on the screen is 4.50
mm. Calculate D.

Markscheme
evidence of solving for D «D = sd »
λ
−3 −3
4.50×10 ×0.300×10
« × 2» = 4.27 «m»
633.0×10−9
Award [1] max for 2.13 m.
[2 marks]

Examiners report
[N/A]

The air between the slits and the screen is replaced with water. The refractive
index of water is 1.33.

10c. Calculate the wavelength of the light in water. [1 mark]

 Markscheme
633.0
1.33
= 476 «nm»

[1 mark]

Examiners report
[N/A]

10d. State two ways in which the intensity pattern on the screen changes. [2 marks]

Markscheme
distance between peaks decreases
intensity decreases
[2 marks]

Examiners report
[N/A]
 A loudspeaker emits sound towards the open end of a pipe. The other end is
closed. A standing wave is formed in the pipe. The diagram represents the
displacement of molecules of air in the pipe at an instant of time.

11a. Outline how the standing wave is formed. [1 mark]

Markscheme
the incident wave «from the speaker» and the reflected wave «from the closed
end»
superpose/combine/interfere
Allow superimpose/add up
Do not allow meet/interact
[1 mark]

Examiners report
[N/A]

X and Y represent the equilibrium positions of two air molecules in the pipe. The
arrow represents the velocity of the molecule at Y.

11b. Draw an arrow on the diagram to represent the direction of motion of the[1 mark]
molecule at X.
 Markscheme
Horizontal arrow from X to the right
MP2 is dependent on MP1
Ignore length of arrow
[1 mark]

Examiners report
[N/A]

11c. Label a position N that is a node of the standing wave. [1 mark]

Markscheme
P at a node

[1 mark]

Examiners report
[N/A]

–1
11d. The speed of sound is 340 m s–1 and the length of the pipe is 0.30 m. [2 marks]
Calculate, in Hz, the frequency of the sound.

Markscheme
wavelength is λ = « 4×0.30
3
=» 0.40 «m»
340
f = « 0.40 » 850 «Hz»

Award [2] for a bald correct answer

Allow ECF from MP1
[2 marks]

Examiners report
[N/A]
 The loudspeaker in (a) now emits sound towards an air–water boundary. A, B and
C are parallel wavefronts emitted by the loudspeaker. The parts of wavefronts A
and B in water are not shown. Wavefront C has not yet entered the water.

11e. The speed of sound in air is 340 m s –1 and in water it is 1500 m s –1. [2 marks]
The wavefronts make an angle θ with the surface of the water. Determine the
maximum angle, θmax, at which the sound can enter water. Give your answer to
the correct number of significant figures.
 Markscheme
sin θ c 1
340
= 1500
θc = 13«°»
Award [2] for a bald correct answer
Award [2] for a bald answer of 13.1
Answer must be to 2/3 significant figures to award MP2
Allow 0.23 radians
[2 marks]

Examiners report
[N/A]

11f. Draw lines on the diagram to complete wavefronts A and B in water for [2 marks]
θ < θmax.

Markscheme
correct orientation
greater separation
Do not penalize the lengths of A and B in the water
Do not penalize a wavefront for C if it is consistent with A and B
MP1 must be awarded for MP2 to be awarded

[2 marks]

Examiners report
[N/A]
12a. Outline how the standing wave is formed. [1 mark]

Markscheme
the incident wave «from the speaker» and the reflected wave «from the closed
end»
superpose/combine/interfere
Allow superimpose/add up
Do not allow meet/interact
[1 mark]

Examiners report
[N/A]

12b. Draw an arrow on the diagram to represent the direction of motion of the[1 mark]
molecule at X.

Markscheme
Horizontal arrow from X to the right
MP2 is dependent on MP1
Ignore length of arrow
[1 mark]

Examiners report
[N/A]

12c. Label a position N that is a node of the standing wave. [1 mark]

 Markscheme
P at a node

[1 mark]

Examiners report
[N/A]

12d. The speed of sound is 340 m s–1 and the length of the pipe is 0.30 m. [2 marks]
Calculate, in Hz, the frequency of the sound.

Markscheme
wavelength is λ = « 4×0.30
3
=» 0.40 «m»
340
f = « 0.40 » 850 «Hz»

Award [2] for a bald correct answer

Allow ECF from MP1
[2 marks]
 Examiners report
[N/A]

12e. The speed of sound in air is 340 m s –1 and in water it is 1500 m s –1. [2 marks]
The wavefronts make an angle θ with the surface of the water. Determine the
maximum angle, θmax, at which the sound can enter water. Give your answer to
the correct number of significant figures.

Markscheme
sin θ c 1
340
= 1500
θc = 13«°»
Award [2] for a bald correct answer
Award [2] for a bald answer of 13.1
Answer must be to 2/3 significant figures to award MP2
Allow 0.23 radians
[2 marks]

Examiners report
[N/A]

12f. Draw lines on the diagram to complete wavefronts A and B in water for [2 marks]
θ < θmax.
Markscheme
correct orientation
greater separation
Do not penalize the lengths of A and B in the water
Do not penalize a wavefront for C if it is consistent with A and B
MP1 must be awarded for MP2 to be awarded

[2 marks]

Examiners report
[N/A]
 A large cube is formed from ice. A light ray is incident from a vacuum at an angle
of 46˚ to the normal on one surface of the cube. The light ray is parallel to the
plane of one of the sides of the cube. The angle of refraction inside the cube is
33˚.

13a. Calculate the speed of light inside the ice cube. [2 marks]

Markscheme
sin i 3×108×sin(33)
«v = c sin =»
r sin(46)
2.3 x 108 «m s–1»

Examiners report
[N/A]
13b. Show that no light emerges from side AB. [3 marks]

Markscheme
light strikes AB at an angle of 57°
critical angle is «sin–1( 2.3
3
) =» 50.1°
49.2° from unrounded value
angle of incidence is greater than critical angle so total internal reflection
OR
light strikes AB at an angle of 57°
calculation showing sin of “refracted angle” = 1.1
statement that since 1.1>1 the angle does not exist and the light does not
emerge
[Max 3 marks]

Examiners report
[N/A]

13c. Sketch, on the diagram, the subsequent path of the light ray. [2 marks]
 Markscheme
total internal reflection shown
ray emerges at opposite face to incidence
Judge angle of incidence=angle of reflection by eye or accept correctly
labelled angles
With sensible refraction in correct direction

Examiners report
[N/A]

Each side of the ice cube is 0.75 m in length. The initial temperature of the ice
cube is –20 °C.

13d. Determine the energy required to melt all of the ice from –20 °C to [4 marks]
water at a temperature of 0 °C.
Specific latent heat of fusion of ice = 330 kJ kg–1
Specific heat capacity of ice = 2.1 kJ kg–1 k–1
Density of ice = 920 kg m–3
 Markscheme
mass = «volume x density» (0.75)3 x 920 «= 388 kg»
energy required to raise temperature = 388 x 2100 x 20 «= 1.63 x 107 J»
energy required to melt = 388 x 330 x 103 «= 1.28 x 108 J»
1.4 x 108 «J» OR 1.4 x 105 «kJ»
Accept any consistent units
Award [3 max] for answer which uses density as 1000 kg –3 (1.5× 108 «J»)

Examiners report
[N/A]

13e. Outline the difference between the molecular structure of a solid and a [1 mark]
liquid.

Markscheme
in solid state, nearest neighbour molecules cannot exchange places/have fixed
positions/are closer to each other/have regular pattern/have stronger forces of
attraction
in liquid, bonds between molecules can be broken and re-form
OWTTE
Accept converse argument for liquids
[Max 1 Mark]
 Examiners report
[N/A]

14a. Outline what is meant by the principle of superposition of waves. [2 marks]

Markscheme
when 2 waves meet the resultant displacement
is the «vector» sum of their individual displacements

Displacement should be mentioned at least once in MP 1 or 2.

Examiners report
[N/A]
14b. Red laser light is incident on a double slit with a slit separation of 0.35 [3 marks]
mm.
A double-slit interference pattern is observed on a screen 2.4 m from the slits.
The distance between successive maxima on the screen is 4.7 mm.

Calculate the wavelength of the light. Give your answer to an appropriate number
of significant figures.

Markscheme
4.7×10−3×0.35×10−3
λ= 2.4
= 6.9 x 10–7 «m»
answer to 2 SF
Allow missed powers of 10 for MP1.

Examiners report
[N/A]
14c. Explain the change to the appearance of the interference pattern when [2 marks]
the red-light laser is replaced by one that emits green light.

Markscheme
green wavelength smaller than red
fringe separation / distance between maxima decreases

Allow ECF from MP1.

Examiners report
[N/A]

14d. One of the slits is now covered. [2 marks]

Describe the appearance of the pattern on the screen.
 Markscheme
bright central maximum
subsidiary maxima «on either side»

the width of the central fringe is twice / larger than the width of the
subsidiary/secondary fringes/maxima
OR
intensity of pattern is decreased

Allow marks from a suitably labelled intensity graph for single slit diffraction.

Examiners report
[N/A]

A student investigates how light can be used to measure the speed of a toy train.

Light from a laser is incident on a double slit. The light from the slits is detected
by a light sensor attached to the train.
The graph shows the variation with time of the output voltage from the light
sensor as the train moves parallel to the slits. The output voltage is proportional
to the intensity of light incident on the sensor.
15a. Explain, with reference to the light passing through the slits, why a [3 marks]
series of voltage peaks occurs.

Markscheme
«light» superposes/interferes
pattern consists of «intensity» maxima and minima
OR
consisting of constructive and destructive «interference»
voltage peaks correspond to interference maxima

Examiners report
[N/A]
15b. The slits are separated by 1.5 mm and the laser light has a wavelength [1 mark]
of 6.3 x 10–7 m. The slits are 5.0 m from the train track. Calculate the
separation between two adjacent positions of the train when the output voltage is
at a maximum.

Markscheme
6.3×10−7×5.0
«s = λD = =» 2.1 x 10–3 «m»
d 1.5×10−3
If no unit assume m.
Correct answer only.

Examiners report
[N/A]

15c. Estimate the speed of the train. [2 marks]

 Markscheme
correct read-off from graph of 25 m s
2.1×10−3
v = « xt = =» 8.4 x 10–2 «m s–1»
25×10−3
Allow ECF from (b)(i)

Examiners report
[N/A]

15d. In another experiment the student replaces the light sensor with a [2 marks]
sound sensor. The train travels away from a loudspeaker that is
emitting sound waves of constant amplitude and frequency towards a reflecting
barrier.

The sound sensor gives a graph of the variation of output voltage with time along
the track that is similar in shape to the graph shown in the resource. Explain how
this effect arises.
 Markscheme
ALTERNATIVE 1
«reflection at barrier» leads to two waves travelling in opposite directions
mention of formation of standing wave
maximum corresponds to antinode/maximum displacement «of air molecules»
OR
complete cancellation at node position

Examiners report
[N/A]

16a. Explain, with reference to the light passing through the slits, why a [3 marks]
series of voltage peaks occurs.

Markscheme
«light» superposes/interferes
pattern consists of «intensity» maxima and minima
OR
consisting of constructive and destructive «interference»
voltage peaks correspond to interference maxima

Examiners report
[N/A]
16b. The slits are separated by 1.5 mm and the laser light has a wavelength [1 mark]
of 6.3 x 10–7 m. The slits are 5.0 m from the train track. Calculate the
separation between two adjacent positions of the train when the output voltage is
at a maximum.

Markscheme
6.3×10−7×5.0
«s = λD = =» 2.1 x 10–3 «m»
d 1.5×10−3
If no unit assume m.
Correct answer only.

Examiners report
[N/A]

16c. Estimate the speed of the train. [2 marks]

 Markscheme
correct read-off from graph of 25 m s
2.1×10−3
v = « xt = =» 8.4 x 10–2 «m s–1»
25×10−3
Allow ECF from (b)(i)

Examiners report
[N/A]

A student investigates how light can be used to measure the speed of a toy train.

Light from a laser is incident on a double slit. The light from the slits is detected
by a light sensor attached to the train.
The graph shows the variation with time of the output voltage from the light
sensor as the train moves parallel to the slits. The output voltage is proportional
to the intensity of light incident on the sensor.
 As the train continues to move, the first diffraction minimum is observed when the
light sensor is at a distance of 0.13 m from the centre of the fringe pattern.

16d. Determine the width of one of the slits. [2 marks]

 Markscheme
angular width of diffraction minimum = 0.13
5.0
«= 0.026 rad»
6.3×10−7
slit width = « λ = 0.026
=» 2.4 x 10–5 «m»
d
Award [1 max] for solution using 1.22 factor.

Examiners report
[N/A]

16e. Suggest the variation in the output voltage from the light sensor that [2 marks]
will be observed as the train moves beyond the first diffraction
minimum.
Markscheme
«beyond the first diffraction minimum» average voltage is smaller

«voltage minimum» spacing is «approximately» same

OR
rate of variation of voltage is unchanged

OWTTE

Examiners report
[N/A]
16f. In another experiment the student replaces the light sensor with a [2 marks]
sound sensor. The train travels away from a loudspeaker that is emitting
sound waves of constant amplitude and frequency towards a reflecting barrier.

The graph shows the variation with time of the output voltage from the sounds
sensor.

Explain how this effect arises.

 Markscheme
«reflection at barrier» leads to two waves travelling in opposite directions
mention of formation of standing wave
maximum corresponds to antinode/maximum displacement «of air molecules»
OR
complete cancellation at node position

Examiners report
[N/A]

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