Quantum Physics Exam Questions 69 Questions

1 Fig. 4.1 shows the path of a tennis ball after bouncing on the ground at A and hitting a vertical wall at B.
The ball is travelling horizontally as it hits the wall at B. Air resistance has negligible effect on the motion of the
ball.
(i) Explain why the horizontal component of the velocity of the ball remains constant as it moves from A to B.
[1]
(ii) The ball loses some of its kinetic energy when it hits the wall at B. It leaves the wall horizontally.
1 On Fig. 4.1, sketch the path of the ball between bouncing at the wall and hitting the ground.
2 Explain how the time taken for the ball to travel from A to B compares with the time it takes to travel from
B to the ground.
[3]
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2 The total energy released in a single fusion reaction is 4.0 MeV.
What is the change in mass in this fusion reaction?
A 7.1 × 10–36 kg
B 7.1 × 10–30 kg
C 2.1 × 10–21 kg
D 4.4 × 10–17 kg
Your answer [1]
3 Electrons travelling through a thin layer of polycrystalline metal are diffracted.
Which statement is correct about these electrons?
A The electrons travel as photons through the metal.

B The electrons have a wavelength of about 10–10 m.
C The electrons are diffracted by holes in the metal.
D The electrons repel each other to produce the diffraction.
Your answer
[1]
4 Which is not a unit of energy?
A kW h
B eV
C J
D W
Your answer [1]
5 An electron moves in a circle of radius 2.0 cm in a uniform magnetic field of flux density 170 mT.
What is the momentum of this electron?
A 3.4 × 10−3 kg m s−1
B 5.4 × 10−17 kg m s−1
C 1.4 × 10−18 kg m s−1
D 5.4 × 10−22 kg m s–1
Your answer [1]
6 Electromagnetic radiation is incident on a metal of work function 2.3 eV.

The maximum kinetic energy (KE) of the photoelectrons is 1.7 eV.
The frequency of this incident electromagnetic radiation is kept the same but its intensity is doubled.
What is the maximum KE of the photoelectrons now?
A 1.7 eV
B 2.9 eV
C 3.4 eV
D 4.0 eV
Your answer [1]
7 What can be deduced from the diffraction of electrons by a thin film of graphite?
A Electrons are leptons.

B Electrons are negatively charged.
C Electrons interact with atoms on a one-to-one basis.
D Electrons travel as waves.
Your answer [1]
8 What is the de Broglie wavelength in nm of a proton travelling at 1.5 × 104 m s?1?
A 2.6 × 10?2 nm
B 2.6 nm
C 49 nm
D 4.9 × 104 nm
Your answer
[1]
9 Electrons travelling through a thin film of carbon are diffracted.
Which statement is correct?
The electrons behave like ....
A photons and are deflected by the carbon atoms.

B photons and change direction as their speed changes.
C waves and are refracted by the holes in the carbon film.
D waves of wavelength similar to the spacing between carbon atoms.
Your answer
[1]
10 Photons of energy 4.8 × 10–19 J are incident on the surface of a clean metal plate of work function 3.2 × 10–19 J.
What is the maximum speed of emitted electrons?
A 5.9 × 105 m s–1

B 8.4 × 105 m s–1
C 1.0 × 106 m s–1
D 1.3 × 106 m s–1
Your answer
[1]
11 The minimum potential difference across a light-emitting diode (LED) before it conducts is 2.1 V. The wavelength
of the light emitted by the LED is λ.
e = elementary charge
c = speed of light in a vacuum
What is the correct expression for determining the Planck constant h?
A h = 2.1ecλ
Your answer [1]
12 The de Broglie wavelength of an electron after being accelerated through a potential difference (p.d.) V is λ0.
The accelerating p.d. is now doubled.
What is the new de Broglie wavelength of the electron in terms of λ0?

A
D 2λ0
Your answer [1]
13 The total energy gained by 20 electrons travelling through a potential difference V is 30 keV. What is the
potential difference V?
A 1.5 V
B 3.0 V
C 1500 V
D 3000 V
Your answer [1]
14 Electromagnetic radiation is incident on a metal. The radiation has constant wavelength with each photon having
an energy of 5.0 eV. The work function of the metal is 3.0 eV.
Which of the following cannot be the kinetic energy of an emitted photoelectron?
A 0 eV
B 1.0 eV
C 2.0 eV
D 3.0 eV
Your answer [1]
15 An electron has a de Broglie wavelength equal to the wavelength of X-rays.
What is the best estimate of the momentum of this electron?
A 10−30 kg m s−1
B 10−27 kg m s−1
C 10−23 kg m s−1
D 10−18 kg m s−1
Your answer [1]
16 * A student is investigating electron diffraction. A beam of electrons is directed towards a thin slice of graphite in
an evacuated tube.
The electrons are accelerated by a potential difference of 2000 V. The diagram below shows the pattern formed
on the fluorescent screen of the evacuated tube.
Describe and explain how the pattern changes as the potential difference is increased. Include how the de
Broglie wavelength λ of the electron is related to the potential difference V.
[6]
17 A proton has kinetic energy 8.00 × 10–17 J.
Which is the correct expression for the de Broglie wavelength λ of the proton?
Your answer [1]
18 An electron with initial kinetic energy of 100 eV and initial speed of 5.9 × 106 m s–1 is accelerated through a
potential difference of 250 V.
What is the final speed of this electron?
A 5.9 × 106 m s–1

B 7.3 × 106 m s–1
C 9.4 × 106 m s–1
D 1.1 × 107 m s–1
Your answer [1]
19 An electron, a proton, a neutron and an alpha-particle are travelling in a vacuum at the same speed.
Which of these particles has the shortest de Broglie wavelength?
A electron
B proton
C neutron
D alpha-particle
Your answer
[1]
20 The Planck constant h is an important fundamental constant in quantum physics.
Determine the S.I. base units for h.
base units = ......................................................... [2]
21 Which of the following statements is / are true about photons?
1 The speed of a photon changes at the boundary between air and glass.
2 Photons are electrically neutral.
3 The energy of a photon depends only on its wavelength.
A 1, 2 and 3 are correct

B Only 1 and 2 are correct
C Only 2 and 3 are correct
D Only 1 is correct
Your answer
[1]
22 A sodium lamp is rated at 40 W.

12% of the power is emitted as yellow light of wavelength 5.9 x 10−7 m.
How many photons of yellow light are emitted per second from this lamp?
A 1.4 × 1019
B 1.2 × 1020
C 3.6 × 1027
D 1.0 × 1040
Your answer
[1]
23 Which of the following statements is / are true about photons?
1 All photons travel at the same speed in a vacuum.

2 Photons have no charge.
3 The energy of a photon depends only on its frequency.
A 1, 2 and 3
B Only 2 and 3
C Only 1 and 2
D Only 2
Your answer
[1]
24 A sodium lamp is rated at 40 W. About 12% of the power is emitted as yellow light of
wavelength 5.9 × 10–7 m.
How many photons of yellow light are emitted per second from this lamp?
A 1.4 × 10 s
19 –1
B 1.2 × 10 s
20 –1
C 3.6 × 10 s
27 –1
D 1.0 × 10 s
40 –1
Your answer
[1]
25 Violet light is incident on the surface of a metal. Photoelectrons are emitted from the surface of the metal. The
frequency of the radiation incident on this metal is increased but the intensity of the radiation is kept constant.
Which statement is correct?
A The value of the Planck constant increases.

B The work function of the metal increases.
C The number of photoelectrons emitted per second increases.
D The maximum kinetic energy of photoelectrons increases.
Your answer
[1]
8 −1
26 A beam of monochromatic light passes from air into glass. The speed of the photons in air is 3.0 x 10 m s and
8 −1
in glass is 2.0 x 10 m s .
Which of the following statements is correct?
A The energy of a photon in glass is 1.5 times the energy of the photon in air.
B The energy of a photon in glass is the same as the energy of the photon in air.
C The energy of a photon in glass is of the energy of the photon in air.

D When the intensity of the monochromatic light beam is halved the energy of each photon of the beam in air is
halved.
Your answer
[1]
27 Electromagnetic radiation, with a range of wavelengths, is incident on a metal.
Electrons are removed from the metal due to the photoelectric effect.
The maximum kinetic energy KE max of the emitted electrons against wavelength λ graph is shown below.
Explain the shape of the graph in terms of quantum physics.
[3]
28 In an experiment it is observed that when blue light is shone on a clean metal surface electrons are emitted, but
with red light there is no electron emission.
Describe Einstein's theory to explain these observations.
In your answer you should include technical terms to explain how the physics of quantum behaviour is
used to explain the observations.
[4]
29 For a fusion reaction to occur the separation between the deuterium and tritium nuclei must be less than 10−14 m.
This means that the average kinetic energy of these hydrogen nuclei needs to be about 70 keV. The energy
released by the fusion reaction is 18 MeV.
(i) Calculate the repulsive electrical force between the deuterium and tritium nuclei at a separation of 10−14 m.
force = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ N [2]
(ii) Assume that a mixture of these hydrogen nuclei behaves as an ideal gas.
Estimate the temperature of the mixture of nuclei required for this fusion reaction.
temperature = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ K [3]
(iii) In practice, fusion occurs at a much lower temperature. Suggest a reason why.
[1]
(iv) Calculate the change in mass in a single fusion reaction.
change in mass = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ kg [2]
(v) Fig. 3.1 shows the variation of probability of fusion reaction with temperature T for deuterium and tritium and
for deuterium and helium.
Suggest why the probability of reaction at a given temperature is smaller for deuterium and helium.
[2]
30 Uranium-235 is used in many fission reactors as fuel and fusion reactors are still at an experimental stage.
(i) State one major disadvantage of having fission reactors.
[1]
(ii) The fission of a uranium-235 nucleus releases about 200 MeV of energy, whereas the fusion of four
hydrogen-1 nuclei releases about 28 MeV.
At first sight it would appear that fusion would produce less energy than fission. However the energy
released in the fission of one kilogramme of uranium-235 is about eight times less than the energy released
in the fusion of one kilogramme of hydrogen-1.
Explain this by considering the initial number of particles in one kilogramme of each.
[4]
31 Fig. 21.1 shows two oppositely charged ions to the left of a point X.
The separation between the centres of the ions is 3.0 × 10−10 m. Each ion has charge of magnitude 1.6 × 10−19
C.
(i) Explain why the direction of the resultant electric field strength at point X is to the left.
[2]
(ii) Calculate the minimum energy in eV required to completely separate the ions.
energy = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ eV [3]
32
The fusion of two nuclei produces a stable nucleus of and some fast-moving neutrons.
(i) Explain why the fusion of the nuclei must produce two neutrons.
[2]
(ii) The total energy released in this fusion reaction is 11 MeV. The binding energy per nucleon of the
nucleus is 7.1 MeV.
Calculate in J the binding energy per nucleon of the nucleus.
binding energy per nucleon =_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ J [3]
33
The nuclear reaction below shows how the isotope of is made from the isotope of
The oxygen-18 nucleus is stationary and the proton has kinetic energy of 0.25 × 10−11 J.
The binding energy of the nucleus is 2.24×10−11 J and the binding energy of the nucleus is 2.20×10−11 J.
The proton and the neutron have zero binding energy.
(i) Explain why a high-speed proton is necessary to trigger the nuclear reaction shown above.
[2]
(ii) Estimate the minimum wavelength λ of the gamma ray photon (γ).
λ= m [3]
(iii) Fluorine-18 is a positron emitter.

Name a medical imaging technique that uses fluorine-18 and state one benefit of the technique.
[2]
34 A researcher is investigating the de Broglie wavelength of charged particles.
The charged particles are accelerated through a potential difference V. The de Broglie wavelength λ of these
particles is then determined by the researcher.
Each particle has mass m and charge q.
(i) Show that the de Broglie wavelength λ is given by the expression .
[2]
(ii) The researcher plots data points on a λ2 against grid, as shown below.
1 Calculate the percentage uncertainty in λ for the data point circled on the grid.
percentage uncertainty = ..................................................... % [2]

2 Draw a straight line of best fit through the data points. [1]
3 The charge q on the particle is 2e, where e is the elementary charge.
Use your best fit straight line to show that the mass m of the particle is about 10–26 kg.
[4]
35 Fig. 22.1 shows the circular track of a positron moving in a uniform magnetic field.
The magnetic field is perpendicular to the plane of Fig. 22.1.

The speed of the positron is 5.0 × 107 m s–1 and the radius of the track is 0.018 m.
At point B the positron interacts with a stationary electron and they annihilate each other. The annihilation
process produces two identical gamma photons travelling in opposite directions.
Calculate the wavelength of the gamma photons. Assume the kinetic energy of the positron is negligible.
wavelength = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ m [3]
36 The wavelength of light from an LED is 480 nm. The radiant power emitted from the LED is 1.2 mW.
Calculate the number of photons N emitted from the LED per second.
N = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ s–1 [3]
37 Electromagnetic radiation of wavelength 300 nm is incident on the surface of two metals X and Y. Metal X has
work function 2.0 eV and metal Y has work function 5.0 eV.
With the help of calculations, explain any difference between the emission of photoelectrons from the surfaces
of the metals X and Y.
[4]
38 Calculate the maximum wavelength of the X-rays for the pair production process.
maximum wavelength = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ m [3]
39 *Two groups of researchers, A and B, conduct photoelectric effect experiments on a new material. The maximum
kinetic energy KEmax of the photoelectrons emitted from the material is determined for different frequencies f of
the electromagnetic radiation incident on the material.
Fig. 19 shows incomplete graphs of KEmax against f from the groups A and B.
The value of the Planck constant h is determined from the completed KEmax against f graphs.
The result from each group is shown below.
group A: h = (6.3 ± 0.3) × 10−34 J s

group B: h = (6.6 ± 0.6) × 10−34 J s
Explain how a graph of KEmax against f can be used to determine h. Discuss the accuracy and precision of the
results from each group.
[6]
40 A researcher is investigating the work function of metals using the photoelectric effect.
The table below shows the threshold frequency f0 and the work function φ for various metals.
metal A B C D E
14
f0 / 10 Hz 4.5 5.6 6.5 8.0 9.7
φ / eV 1.9 2.3 2.7 3.4 4.1
Fig. 27 shows the data points for the metals A, B, D and E plotted on a φ against f0 grid.
Fig. 27
(i) Use Einstein’s photoelectric equation to show

φ = hf0
where h is the Planck constant.
[1]
(ii) Plot the data point for C on Fig. 27 and draw the straight line of best fit. [1]
(iii) Use Fig. 27 to determine the experimental value for h.
h = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ J s [2]
(iv) Explain, without doing any calculations, how you could use Fig. 27 to determine the percentage uncertainty
in h.
[2]
41
Procyon is a star of radius 1.4 × 109 m. The total output power of the electromagnetic radiation from its surface is
2.7 × 1027 W. The average wavelength of the electromagnetic waves from Procyon is 5.0 × 10−7 m.
(i) Show that the surface intensity of the radiation from Procyon is 1.1 × 108 W m−2.
[2]
(ii) Calculate the energy of a photon of wavelength 5.0 × 10−7 m.
energy = J [2]
(iii) Estimate the total number of photons emitted per second from the surface of Procyon.
number per second = s−1 [1]
42(a) A high energy gamma photon passing through the scintillator crystal converts some of its energy into visible light
photons of mean wavelength 450 nm.
Show that the energy of a single photon of wavelength 450 nm is less than 3 eV.
[3]
(b) Fig. 6.1 shows a single photomultiplier tube and its internal components. The tube can detect gamma photons in
high-energy physics experiments.
A single gamma photon incident on the scintillator crystal generates many photons of blue light. These visible
light photons travel to the photocathode where they are converted into photoelectrons. The number of electrons
is then multiplied in the photomultiplier tube with the help of electrodes called dynodes. A short pulse of electric
current is produced at the output end of the photomultiplier tube.
Fig. 6.1
The photocathode is coated with potassium which has a work function of 2.3 eV. Each emitted photoelectron is
accelerated by a potential difference of 100 V between the photocathode and a metal plate, called the first
dynode.
(i) Show that the maximum kinetic energy of an emitted electron at the photocathode is very small compared to
its kinetic energy of 100 eV at the first dynode.
[1]
(ii) 2000 photoelectrons are released from the photocathode. Each photoelectron has enough energy to release
four electrons from the first dynode at the collision. These four electrons are then accelerated to the next
dynode where the process is repeated. There are 9 dynodes in the photomultiplier tube. The total number of
electrons collected at the anode for each photoelectron is 49.
The pulse of electrons at the anode lasts for a time of 2.5 × 10−9 s.
Calculate the average current due to this pulse.
average current = A [3]
43
A proton with kinetic energy 0.52 MeV is travelling directly towards a stationary nucleus of cobalt-59 in a
head-on collision.
(i) Explain what happens to the electric potential energy of the proton-nucleus system.
[1]
(ii) Calculate the minimum distance R between the proton and cobalt nucleus.
R= m [3]
44 A light-emitting diode (LED) emits red light when it is positively biased and has a potential difference (p.d.)
greater than about 1.8 V.
The energy of a photon of red light is about 1.8 eV.
Calculate the wavelength λ of this red light.
λ = ..................................................... m [3]
45 Some lasers are used in eye surgery.
One such laser emits a beam of light of wavelength 490 nm and power 230 mW.
Calculate
(i) the energy of each photon of light from the laser.
energy = ..................................................... J [2]
(ii) the number of photons of light emitted in each second.
number of photons = ..................................................... [2]
46(a) * A gold leaf electroscope is used to demonstrate the photoelectric effect. A zinc plate is placed on top of the
electroscope. The zinc plate is negatively charged as shown in Fig. 7.
Fig. 7
White light from a table lamp is allowed to fall on to the electroscope from a distance of 10.0 cm. The
experiment is then repeated with light from a distance of 4.0 cm. Both experiments are then repeated with
ultraviolet radiation. The electroscope is fully charged before each experiment.
The observations are recorded in Table 7.
Incident radiation Observations

Light at a distance of 10.0 cm Gold leaf takes a very long time to fall
Light at a distance of 4.0 cm Gold leaf takes a very long time to fall
Ultraviolet radiation at a distance of 10.0 cm Gold leaf falls quickly
Ultraviolet radiation at a distance of 4.0 cm Gold leaf falls very quickly
Table 7
Explain how these observations demonstrate the photoelectric effect and provide evidence for the particulate
nature of electromagnetic radiation.
[6]
(b) electromagnetic radiation of frequency 9.60 × 1014Hz falls on a negatively-charged metal surface with a work
function of 3.2 eV.
Calculate the maximum kinetic energy Ek (max) in joules of the particles emitted from the surface of the metal.
Ek (max) = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ J [3]
47(a) Electron diffraction provides evidence for the wave-like behaviour of particles. Electrons are diffracted by a thin
slice of graphite.
In one experiment, electrons are accelerated from rest through a potential difference of 300 V.
Show that the final speed v of the electrons is 1.0 × 107 m s−1.
[3]
(b) Determine the de Broglie wavelength λ of the electrons.
λ = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ m [2]
(c) After the electrons are diffracted by the graphite they hit a fluorescent screen.
The electrons are diffracted because of the spacing between the carbon atoms is comparable with the de
Broglie wavelength of the electrons. Fig. 8 shows the diffraction pattern (bright rings) seen on the fluorescent
screen when the electrons are accelerated through a potential difference of 300 V.
Fig. 8
The potential difference is now increased. Explain how the diffraction pattern will change.
[2]
48 This question is about the brightest wavelength (590 nm) of light from a sodium lamp.
Analysis of the light from the sodium lamp using a diffraction grating shows that there are photons of two
different energies at wavelengths 589.0 nm and 589.6 nm.
(i) Calculate the energy difference ΔE between these two photons.
ΔE = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ J [3]
(ii) The light at these wavelengths can be seen as two separate lines when viewed through a diffraction grating.
In order to be distinguishable from each other, the angular separation between the lines must be at least
0.02°.
Show that the lines will appear separated in the second order spectrum when the sodium lamp is viewed
through a grating with 300 lines per millimetre.
[3]
49 A researcher is investigating the work function of metals using the photoelectric effect.
The table below shows the threshold frequency f0 and the work function φ for various metals.
metal A B C D E
14
f0 / 10 Hz 4.5 5.6 6.5 8.0 9.7
φ / eV 1.9 2.3 2.7 3.4 4.1
Explain what is meant by threshold frequency.
[1]
50(a)
Electromagnetic radiation is incident on a negatively charged zinc plate. Electrons are emitted from the surface
of the plate when a weak intensity ultraviolet source is used. Electrons are not emitted at all when an intense
visible light from a lamp is used.
Explain these observations.
[4]
(b) The maximum wavelength of the electromagnetic radiation incident on the surface of a metal which causes
electrons to be emitted is 2.9 × 10−7 m.
Calculate the maximum kinetic energy of electrons emitted from the surface of the metal when each incident
photon has energy of 5.1 eV.
maximum kinetic energy = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ J [3]

(c) Electromagnetic radiation of constant wavelength is incident on a metal plate. Photoelectrons are emitted from
the metal plate. Fig. 19.1 shows an arrangement used to determine the maximum kinetic energy of electrons
emitted from a metal plate.
Fig. 19.1
The metal plate and the electrode C are both in a vacuum. The electrode C is connected to the negative
terminal of the variable power supply.
Fig. 19.2 shows the variation of current I in the circuit as the potential difference V between the metal plate and C
is increased from 0 V to 3.0 V.
Fig. 19.2
Explain why the current decreases as V increases and describe how you can determine the maximum kinetic
energy of the emitted electrons.
[3]
51
Fig. 21.1 shows some of the energy levels of electrons in hydrogen gas atoms.
The energy levels are labelled A, B, C and D.
Fig. 21.1 (not to scale)
(i) Explain why the energy levels are negative.
[1]
(ii) An electron makes a transition (jump) from level C to level A.
1 Calculate the energy gained by this electron.
energy = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ eV [1]
1 Calculate the wavelength in nm of the photon absorbed by this electron.
wavelength = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ nm [3]
52(a) This question is about a laser pen.
Green light from the laser pen passes through a pair of narrow slits S1 and S2 as shown in Fig. 5.1.
Fig. 5.1
A pattern is produced on a screen consisting of regularly spaced bright and dark lines as shown in Fig. 5.2.
Fig. 5.2
(i) Fig. 5.1 shows two points, P and Q, on the screen. Explain in terms of path difference why point P is a bright
line and point Q is a dark line.
[2]
(ii) The screen is at a distance of 4.50 ± 0.02 m from the slits and the slit separation is 0.56 ± 0.02 mm.
1. Use Fig. 5.2 to determine the wavelength λ of the light.
λ = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ m [3]
2. Determine the percentage uncertainty in λ.
percentage uncertainty = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ % [2]
(b) The power of the green light from the laser pen is 50.0 mW. It is now used in a demonstration of the
photoelectric effect.
(i) Calculate the number of photons n that the laser emits per second.
n = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ [2]
(ii) The green light falls on a negatively charged metal plate with a work function of 2.6 eV. Explain whether
photoelectrons will be emitted.
[2]
53(a)
A stationary uranium-238 nucleus decays into a nucleus of thorium-234 by emitting an alpha-particle.
The chemical symbol for thorium is Th. Write a nuclear equation for this decay.
[2]
(b) The mass of the uranium nucleus is 4.0 × 10−25 kg. After the decay the thorium nucleus has a speed of
2.4 × 105 m s−1.
Calculate the kinetic energy, in MeV, of the alpha-particle.
kinetic energy = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ MeV [4]
(c)
The uranium-238 nucleus starts the decay chain which ends with a nucleus of lead-206 .
Show that 14 particles are emitted during this decay chain. Explain your reasoning.
[3]
54(a) Einstein derived the following equation to explain the photoelectric effect:
hf = ϕ + KEmax
Define the following terms from the equation
(i) hf
[1]
(ii) ϕ
[1]
(b) Electromagnetic radiation of frequency 1.2 × 1015 Hz is incident on the surface of a negatively charged
aluminium plate. The work function of aluminium is 4.1 eV.
(i) Show that the maximum speed of the electrons emitted from the surface of the aluminium is 5.5 × 105 m s−1.
[4]
(ii) State and explain what change, if any, occurs to the maximum speed of the emitted electrons when the
intensity of the electromagnetic radiation is increased.
[2]
(c) Moving electrons have wave-like properties.
Calculate the de Broglie wavelength λ for electrons travelling at 5.5 × 105 m s−1.
λ= m [2]
55
Fig. 20.2 shows a gold-leaf electroscope with a clean zinc plate.
Fig. 20.2
The zinc plate, metal stem and the gold-leaf are given a negative charge by briefly connecting the zinc plate to
the negative electrode of a high-voltage supply.
The gold leaf is fully diverged.
The position of the leaf is not affected by intense white light from a table lamp incident on the zinc plate. The
gold leaf collapses very quickly when low-intensity ultraviolet radiation from a mercury lamp is incident on the
zinc plate.
Explain these observations in terms of photons.
[4]
56(a) In an experiment to demonstrate the photoelectric effect, electromagnetic waves are incident on a silver surface.
Fig. 6 shows the variation with frequency f of the maximum kinetic energy KEmax of the photoelectrons.
Fig. 6
(i) Define the term threshold frequency.
[1]
(ii) Use Fig. 6 to state the threshold frequency f0 for silver.
f0 ................................................... Hz [1]
(iii) Use your answer in (ii) to calculate the work function φ of silver.
Give your answer in electron volt (eV).
φ = ................................................... eV [2]
(b) Electrons can behave as a wave.
Describe the behaviour of electrons which demonstrates that they have wave properties.
[4]
57(a) State one piece of evidence for the wave-like behaviour of electrons.
[1]
(b) In an electron-gun, each electron is accelerated to a maximum kinetic energy of 210 eV.
(i) Show that the final speed of each electron is about 9 × 106 ms–1.
[3]
(ii) Calculate the de Broglie wavelength λ of each electron.
λ = ..................................................... m [2]
(c) Electromagnetic waves interact with matter as photons.
Explain the photoelectric effect using ideas of photons, conservation of energy and work function.
[4]
58 An LED emits blue light of wavelength 4.7 × 10–7 m.
(i) Estimate the number of blue light photons emitted from the LED per second.
number of photons per second = ......................................................S-1 [3]
(ii) The light from the LED is incident on a metal of work function 2.3 eV.
Explain, with the help of a calculation, whether or not photoelectrons will be emitted from the surface of the
metal.
[2]
59(a) Filament lamps are being replaced by LED lamps in many large organisations. LEDs are low-powered devices.
(i) Apart from cost, state one major advantage this can have on the environment.
[1]
(ii) A light-emitting diode emits photons of a specific wavelength. The intensity of the light emitted from the LED
is doubled.
Explain the effect this has on the energy of a photon.
[2]
(b) Fig. 26.1 shows part of the apparatus for an experiment in which electrons pass through a thin slice of graphite
(carbon atoms) and emerge to produce concentric rings on a fluorescent screen.
(i) Explain how this experiment demonstrates the wave-nature of electrons.
[3]
(ii) The beam of electrons in the apparatus shown in Fig. 26.1 is produced by accelerating electrons through a
potential difference of 1200 V.
Show that the de Broglie wavelength of the electrons is 3.5 x 10–11 m.
[2]
(iii) When de Broglie first put forward his idea it was new to the scientific community. Describe one way in which
they could validate his ideas.
[1]
60(a) * The Planck constant h can be measured in an experiment using light-emitting diodes (LEDs).
Each LED used in the experiment emits monochromatic light. The wavelength λ of the emitted photons is
determined during the manufacturing process and is provided by the manufacturer.
When the p.d. across the LED reaches a specific minimum value Vmin the LED suddenly switches on emitting
photons of light of wavelength λ.
Vmin and λ are related by the energy equation eVmin = hc / λ.
LED λ / nm Vmin / V
1 red 627 1.98
2 yellow 590 2.10
3 green 546 2.27
4 blue 468 2.66
5 violet 411 3.02
Discuss how you could use the circuit of Fig. 7.1 to determine accurate values for Vmin and how data from the
table can be used graphically to determine a value for the Planck constant.
[6]
(b) A beam of ultraviolet light is incident on a clean metal surface. The graph of Fig. 7.2 shows how the maximum
kinetic energy KEmax of the electrons ejected from the surface varies with the frequency f of the incident light.
(i) Explain how the graph shown in Fig 7.2 cannot be explained in terms of the wave-model for electromagnetic
waves.
[2]
(ii) Use data from Fig.7.2 to find a value of
1 the Planck constant
Planck constant = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ J s [2]
2 the threshold frequency of the metal
threshold frequency = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Hz [1]
3 the work function of the metal.
work function = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ J [2]
61(a) This question is about a photoelectric cell, which is an electronic device that detects photons.
Fig. 6 shows a cross-section through a simple photocell.
A metal plate A is coated with potassium in an evacuated transparent tube. A photon of high enough energy,
incident on the plate, can cause an electron to be released from the surface towards the collector rod B.
Potassium has a work function of 3.5 × 10?19 J. Show that the longest wavelength of light that the photocell can
detect is about 570 nm.
[3]
(b) There is a potential difference of 12 V between plate A and rod B so that released electrons are accelerated
towards and collected by rod B. B is 5.0 mm from A.
Light of wavelength 570 nm is incident on plate A.
(i) Calculate the speed v of electrons arriving at rod B.
v = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ms−1 [4]
(ii) Estimate the response time of the photocell, that is the time it takes for electrons to travel from A to B.
response time = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ s [2]
(c) The photocell is connected to a 12 V supply and a sensitive ammeter which can detect a current of 1.0 × 10?9 A.
Only 5.0% of the photons of average energy 4.0 × 10?19 J incident on the plate A cause electrons to be released.
Calculate the minimum light energy that plate A must absorb per second for the photocell circuit to detect a
current.
[3]
62 X-rays are produced in an X-ray tube when fast moving electrons hit a metal target.
Fig. 7.1 shows a typical graph of intensity I against wavelength λ of X-rays emitted by an X-ray tube.
High-speed electrons colliding with the atoms in the target metal can remove electrons from these atoms. The
removal of such electrons creates ‘gaps’ in the lower energy levels of these atoms. These gaps are quickly filled
by electrons in the higher energy levels making transitions to these lower energy levels. The electrons lose
energy which is released as photons with particular wavelengths. These emission spectral lines are shown by
the high intensity peaks such as K shown in Fig. 7.1.
Fig. 7.2 shows three of the energy levels, A, B and C, for the metal atoms of the target. The electron transition
shown produces the peak K.
(i) Explain what is meant by an energy level of an atom.
[1]
(ii) The peak K occurs at a wavelength of 7.2 × 10-11 m. Calculate the value of the energy level B.
value of energy level = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ J [3]
(iii) In Fig. 7.1, the shortest wavelength λ0 produced from an X-ray tube depends on the accelerating potential
difference V. The maximum kinetic energy of a single accelerated electron is equal to the energy of a single
X-ray photon of wavelength λ0. Explain how λ0 from the X-ray tube changes when the accelerating potential
difference of the X-ray tube is doubled.
[2]
63(a) State what is meant by the photoelectric effect.
[1]
(b) The photoelectric effect cannot be explained in terms of the wave-model of electromagnetic waves. Discuss how
the new knowledge of the particulate nature of radiation was used by physicists to validate the photon model.
[3]
(c) A metal plate is placed in an evacuated chamber. Electromagnetic radiation of wavelength 380 nm is incident on
the plate. The work function of the metal is 1.1 eV.
(i) Calculate the maximum speed of the photoelectrons emitted from the plate.
speed = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ m s−1 [3]
(ii) State the change, if any, to the maximum speed of the emitted photoelectrons when the intensity of the
incident electromagnetic radiation on the metal plate is doubled.
[1]
64(a) Fig. 19 shows a photocell.
When the metal M is exposed to electromagnetic radiation, photoelectrons are ejected from the surface of the
metal. These photoelectrons are collected at the electrode C and the sensitive ammeter indicates the presence
of a tiny current.
The work function of the metal M is 2.3 eV.
The incident electromagnetic radiation has wavelength 5.1 × 10−7 m.
The ammeter reading is 0.24 μA.
Calculate the maximum kinetic energy of the ejected photoelectrons.
maximum kinetic energy = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ J [3]
(b) The wavelength of the incident radiation is kept constant but the intensity of the radiation is doubled.
State and explain the effect, if any, on the current in the photocell.
[2]
65(a) Fig. 4.1 shows the I-V characteristic of a blue light-emitting diode (LED).
The energy of each photon emitted by the LED comes from an electron passing through the LED. The energy of
each blue photon emitted by the LED is 4.1 × 10−19 J.
(i) Calculate the energy of a blue photon in electron volts.
energy = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ eV [1]
(ii) Explain how your answer to (i) is related to the shape of the curve in Fig. 4.1.
[2]
(b) Calculate for a current of 20 mA
(i) the number n of electrons passing through the LED per second
n = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ s−1 [2]
(ii) the total energy of the light emitted per second
energy per second = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ J s−1 [2]
(iii) the efficiency of the LED in transforming electrical energy into light energy.
efficiency = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ [2]
(c) The energy of a photon emitted by a red LED is 2.0 eV. The current in this LED is 20 mA when the p.d. across it
is 3.4 V. Draw the I-V characteristic of this LED on Fig. 4.1.
[2]
66(a) In a demonstration experiment of the photoelectric effect, light of wavelength 440 nm incident on a clean metal
surface causes electrons to be emitted. No electrons are emitted from the surface when the wavelength of the
incident light is greater than 550 nm.
(i) Define the term work function.
[2]
(ii) Explain how the work function is related to the threshold frequency.
[2]
(iii) Calculate the value of the work function for this metal.
work function = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ J [2]
(b) The light source for this experiment is a discharge lamp containing excited atoms which emit light at several
wavelengths. Fig. 8.1 shows the three lowest energy levels of one of these atoms, labelled n = 1, 2 and 3.
Electron transitions between these energy levels can produce three different wavelengths of radiation. The
transition between n = 2 and n = 1 causes the 440 nm photons.
(i) Photons at 590 nm are also emitted. Which transition causes these photons?
[1]
(ii) Hence calculate the wavelength of the photons emitted by the third transition.
wavelength = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ m [3]
67(a) In an experiment it is observed that when blue light is shone on a clean metal surface electrons are emitted, but
with red light there is no electron emission.
State the name of the effect observed in this experiment.
[1]
(b) The longest wavelength of light incident on the metal surface which causes electrons to be emitted is 480 nm.
(i) Show that the work function of the metal is about 4 × 10-19 J.
[3]
(ii) Calculate the maximum speed of an emitted electron when a photon of energy 5.2 × 10-19 J is incident on the
metal surface.
speed = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ms-1 [3]
(c)
(i) Describe briefly one piece of evidence for believing that electrons sometimes behave like waves.
[2]
(ii) Calculate the de Broglie wavelength of an electron moving at 500 km s-1.
wavelength = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ m [3]
68(a)
(i) The de Broglie equation is often written in the form
Explain the meaning of each symbol used in the equation.
[3]
(ii) Describe briefly one piece of evidence for believing that electrons sometimes behave like waves.
[2]
(iii) The electrons in a typical electron microscope are accelerated through a potential difference of 5.0 × 104 V.
1 Show that the final speed of an accelerated electron is about 1.3 × 108 m s−1.
Ignore any relativistic effects.
[3]
2 Calculate the de Broglie wavelength of an electron moving at 1.3 × 108 m s−.
wavelength = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ m [2]
3 Calculate by how many powers of 10 this is shorter than the wavelength of visible light used in optical
microscopes.
powers of ten = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ [2]
(b) Electromagnetic waves sometimes behave like particles, called photons. Name and describe briefly one piece of
evidence which supports this particle-like behaviour.
In your answer you should name the experiment and make clear how the observations are explained
using a photon model of electromagnetic radiation.
[4]
69(a) Lasers are often used to form precision-welded joints in titanium. To form one such joint it is first necessary to
increase the temperature of the titanium to its melting point. Fig. 5.1 shows the joint and the volume of titanium to
be heated.
The photon beam from the laser is focused onto the shaded volume of the joint and is converted into thermal
energy in the titanium.
The wavelength of the photons is 1.1 × 10−6 m.
Show that the energy of a photon in the beam is 1.8 × 10−19 J.
[1]
(b) Photons are emitted from the laser at a constant rate of 6.3 × 1019 s−1.
Estimate the time taken to raise the temperature of the shaded volume of titanium shown in Fig. 5.1 to melting
point. Use the data below for your calculations.
initial temperature = 20 °C
melting point of titanium = 1700 °C
density of titanium = 4.5 × 103 kg m−3
specific heat capacity of titanium = 520 J kg−1 K−1
shaded volume of titanium being heated = 8.1 × 10−12 m3.
time = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ s [3]
(c) In practice it takes a longer time to reach the melting point.

State and explain two factors that will increase the time taken.
[2]
(d) To complete the weld more photons must be focused onto the joint. During this final stage the temperature
remains constant. Explain why this is to be expected.
[1]
END OF QUESTION PAPER
Mark Scheme
Question Answer/Indicative content Marks Guidance
1 i There is only a vertical force / weight is B1 Not ‘horizontal acceleration is zero’ – since
vertical / no horizontal force(s) / horizontal velocity is constant is given in
acceleration is vertical the question
Examiner's Comments
About a quarter of the candidates ignored

the instruction that air resistance had
negligible effect on the motion of the ball
and gave incorrect answers in terms of
drag. The vast majority of the candidates
gave succinct answers such as ‘the only
force acting is the vertical weight’ and
‘there is only vertical acceleration of g’.
ii 1 Correct sketch of the rebound path. B1 Note: The ball must hit the ground closer to
wall. The rebound path should be curved
and below the original path.
ii 2 The time is the same. M1
ii For both, the height / vertical distance and A1

Allow with s and a the same (for
(vertical) acceleration are the same.
both)
Examiner's Comments
Most candidates sketched the correct path

of the ball after hitting the vertical wall.
Many candidates struggled to explain the
time of fall for the rebounding ball.
Candidates who were confident with
projectile motion managed to pick up at
least one mark for stating that the time was
the same. The two most frequent incorrect
answers were:
The time is greater because the kinetic

energy is reduced.
The time is smaller because the
distance travelled is less.
Too many candidates were using the term

gravity to mean either gravitational force or
acceleration due to free fall. It is best to
avoid using the term gravity at this level.
Total 4
2 B 1
Mark Scheme
Total 1
3 B 1
Total 1
4 D 1
Total 1
5 D 1
Total 1
6 A 1
Total 1
7 D 1
Total 1
8 A 1
Total 1
9 D 1 Examiner's Comments
All of the questions showed a positive

discrimination, and the less able
candidates could access the easier
questions. The questions in Section A do
require careful reading and scrutiny.
Candidates are advised to reflect carefully
before recording their response in the box.
Candidates must endeavour to use a
variety of quick techniques when
answering multiple choice questions.
The candidates to demonstrate their

knowledge and understanding of physics.
Total 1
Mark Scheme
10 A 1 Examiner's Comments
All of the questions showed a positive

discrimination, and the less able
candidates could access the easier
questions. The questions in Section A do
require careful reading and scrutiny.
Candidates are advised to reflect carefully
before recording their response in the box.
Candidates must endeavour to use a
variety of quick techniques when
answering multiple choice questions.
Total 1
11 D 1
Total 1
12 B 1
Total 1
13 C 1
Total 1
14 D 1
Examiner’s Comments
Slightly more than half of the candidates

got the correct answer D in this question
on the photoelectric equation. No detailed
calculations were necessary here. The
maximum kinetic energy of a photoelectron
had to be 2.0 eV (difference between
photon energy of 5.0 eV and the work
function of the metal 3.0 eV), which made
the value of 3.0 eV impossible. The most
popular distractor was A.
Total 1
15 C 1
Total 1
Mark Scheme
16 Level 3 (5–6 marks) B1 ×6 Indicative scientific points may include:

Description and explanation of pattern
changes and quantitatively explains link
between de Broglie wavelength and Description of pattern changes
potential difference. • Rings become closer (not just smaller)
• Rings become brighter
There is a well-developed line of reasoning
which is clear and logically structured. The
information presented is relevant and Qualititative explanation of pattern changes
substantiated. in terms of de Broglie wavelength and
potential difference
Level 2 (3–4 marks)
Clear description of how pattern changes • Electrons gain greater energy
and explanation of pattern changes and • Electrons have a greater speed
qualitatively explains link between de • Electrons have a greater momentum
Broglie wavelength and potential difference • Implies smaller wavelength
or • Smaller wavelength means less
diffraction
limited description of how pattern changes • Shorter wavelength gives shorter path
and differences between areas of
quantitatively explains link between de constructive and destructive interference
Broglie wavelength and potential
difference. Quantitative explanation of pattern
changes in terms of de Broglie wavelength
There is a line of reasoning presented with and potential difference
some structure.
The information presented is in the most- •
part relevant and supported by some • p = mv
evidence. • v2 α V or p2 α V
• or
Level 1 (1–2 marks)
Limited description of how pattern changes
• or
and limited attempts to explain qualitatively
the link between de Broglie wavelength
and potential difference or Examiner’s Comments
This question tested an understanding of
qualitatively explains link between de electron diffraction. Many candidates gave
Broglie wavelength and potential a good qualitative explanation of how the
difference. pattern would change. High achieving
candidates clearly demonstrated how the
The information is basic and de Broglie wavelength λ was related to the
communicated in an unstructured way. The potential difference V by equating the
information is supported by limited energy eV to kinetic energy, then using the
evidence and the relationship to the definition of momentum and the de Broglie
evidence may not be clear. wavelength. Some candidates confused
speed v with potential difference V. Many
0 marks candidates gave a good qualitative
No response or no response worthy of explanation. Many candidates did not state
credit. that the rings would become brighter.
Mark Scheme
AfL
Candidates should be able to describe how

to use light gates. In particular, candidates
should be able to indicate the
measurements that are needed to
determine speed and acceleration.
Candidates should state that the light gates
should be connected to a timer or data-
logger.
AfL
When analysing experimental data,

candidates should be able to determine
appropriate graphs to plot which will give a
straight line (if the given relationship is
true). Candidates should also be able to
describe how unknown quantities may be
determined using the gradient and / or y
-intercept.
Misconception
There is some confusion between the

equations to use for photoelectric effect
and the equations to use when considering
the de Broglie wavelength. For the de
Broglie wavelength, a common
misconception is to relate the energy to
wavelength by the equation for the energy
of a photon,
Total 6
17 C 1
Total 1
18 D 1
Total 1
19 D 1
Total 1
Mark Scheme
20 h → J s / h → N m s / J → kg m2 s–2 C1
base unit = kg m2 s–1 A1
Total 2
21 A 1
Total 1
22 A 1
Total 1
23 A 1
Total 1
24 A 1
Total 1
25 D 1
Total 1
26 B 1
Total 1
Mark Scheme
27 Photon mentioned / one-to-one interaction B1

(between electron and photon)
Not KE(max) = hf – φ by itself, but allow with

(Maximum KE of electrons decreases as B1 c = fλ
wavelength increases because)
(Any subject)
B1
or threshold frequenc Allow or hf for ‘energy of photon’ and φ
(When λ < λ0) energy (of photon) > work for ‘work function’ for this B1 mark
function / f > threshold frequency and Not f0 for threshold frequency
electrons emitted / KE(max) ≠ 0
or
(When λ = λ0) energy (of photon) = work Allow λ0 / threshold wavelength is the
function / f = threshold frequency and maximum wavelength for electrons to be
electrons just emitted / not emitted / KE(max) emitted
=0 Allow threshold frequency is the minimum
or frequency for electron(s) to be emitted
(When λ > λ0) energy (of photon) < work Allow work function is the minimum energy
function / f < threshold frequency and for electron(s) to be emitted
electrons not emitted / KE(max) = 0
Total 3
Mark Scheme
28 1. Individual photons are absorbed by B1 max 4 from 6 marking points

individual electrons (in the metal surface) /
one to one interaction / AW
2. Only photon with energy above the work B1 allow work function (of a metal surface) is
function energy will cause photoelectron minimum energy for photoemission
emission / idea of threshold frequency
3. Photon energy is proportional to B1 allow shorter wavelength light has higher

frequency energy
4. (therefore) blue photons with higher f / B1 (hc/ λ) or higher frequency higher energy
shorter λ will cause blue photons with (hf)
highe or … red photons with lower f / longer λ…..
photoemission but red photons will not.
5. hf - ϕ = KEmax is the equation resulting B1 max must be present to score mark;

from conservation of energy equation stated in words: photon e. - w.f. =
or resulting from the meaning of each term max ke of e
6. A wave model does not explain B1 to score full marks (4) the answer must
instantaneous emission include
two terms out of photon, work function and
threshold
frequency / wavelength (QWC mark)
Examiner's Comments
There were many good answers but some

candidates were side–tracked into writing
about the gold-leaf electroscope
experiment losing sight of the original
question. Some also failed to refer to the
blue and red photons in the stem of the
question.
Total 4
Mark Scheme
29 i C1 Not Q = q = 1
i force = 2.3 (N) A1 Examiner's Comments
Generally, candidates answered the

question well and got the correct answer of
2.3 N. The equation for Coulomb's law was
familiar to most candidates and the
substitution of numbers was clear with
fewer calculator errors. A small number of
candidates used charges of 2e and 3e and
consequently scored no marks.
ii E = 7.0x104x 1.6x10–19(= 1.12x 10–14 J) C1
ii ; C1 Allow any subject. Also, allow E ≈ kT since

it is an estimate.
ii temperature = 5.4 × 108(K) A1 Allow 1 sf answer.
Examiner's Comments
The majority of the candidates scored

three marks for this synoptic question
requiring knowledge of electronvolts and
mean kinetic energy . The answers
were, once again, well-structured and
logically presented. A small number of
candidates either used 70000 or 18 MeV
as the mean kinetic energy; no marks were
awarded for such elementary errors.
iii Some nuclei will be travelling faster / have B1 Allow the pressures are high (enough to
greater (kinetic) energy (to overcome cause fusion).
electrostatic repulsion and hence cause Not ‘nuclei get close enough’.
fusion).
Examiner's Comments
This was a good discriminator, with top-

end candidates giving perfect answers.
Some even mentioned the Maxwell-
Boltzmann distribution and how some of
the nuclei would have kinetic energies
greater than the mean kinetic energy.
Descriptions were often far more complex
than warranted by this one mark question.
Examiners also allowed ‘high pressure’ as
a plausible answer.
Mark Scheme
iv (ΔE = Δmc2); 18x 106x 1.6 × 10–19 = Δm × C1 Allow any subject

(3.0 × 108)2
iv change in mass = 3.2 × 10–29 (kg) A1 Allow a maximum of 1 mark for 18MeV ±
70 keV.
Examiner's Comments
This was another high-scoring question.

Most candidates used the Einstein
massenergy equation and the energy of 18
MeV converted to joules to get the correct
answer. Examiners gave no marks if 70
keV was used as the energy. Once again,
candidates demonstrated good analytical
skills.
v Helium (nucleus) has greater charge / B1

more protons.
v The (electrostatic) repulsive force (between B1 Do not award this mark if ‘helium nuclei are
the deuterium and helium nuclei) is greater moving slower’ is also given as the reason
(hence smaller chance of fusion). for smaller probability for fusion.
Examiner's Comments
Most candidates wrote a great deal but the

key physics was often omitted. Only a
small number of high-scoring candidates
realised that the helium nucleus had
greater charge. This meant a greater
repulsive electrostatic force between the
helium nuclei and deuterium nuclei and
hence a smaller chance of fusion between
helium-deuterium nuclei. The most
common misconception was that ‘the
greater mass of helium nuclei means that
they are travelling slower and hence less
chance of fusion’.
Total 10
Mark Scheme
30 i Fission reactors produce radioactive by- B1

products which affect future generations
and the environment in terms of possible
contamination / exposure to humans and
animals.
ii No of particles in 1000 g U = 1000/235 × B1 Appreciate that the key to the answer is the
6.02 × 1023 = 2.56 × 1024 difference in numbers of atoms / nuclei or
No of reactions for U = 2.56 × 1024 equal number of nucleons involved scores
one mark if nothing else achieved.
ii Energy from U = 2.56 × 1024 × 200 = 5.12 B1

× 1026 MeV
ii No of particles in 1000g H = 6.02 × 1026

No of reactions = 6.02 × 1026/4 B1
Energy from H = 6.02 × 1026/4 × 28 =
42.14 × 1026 MeV
ii Hence energy 42/5 = 8.2 times higher B1
ii second method or
235 g of U and 4 g of H / He contain 1 B1
mole of atoms
ii there are 4.26 moles of U and 250 moles B1

of He
ii so at least 58 times as many energy B1

releases in fusion ratio of energies is only 7
fold in favour of U
ii therefore 58/7 times as much energy B1

released by 1 kg of H
ii similar alternative argument, e.g.

For U each nucleon ‘provides’ 0.85 MeV B1
ii For H each nucleon ‘provides’ 7 MeV B1
ii (Approx) same number of nucleons per kg B1

of U or H
Mark Scheme
ii so 8.2 times as much energy from H B1
Total 5
31 i The direction of the electric field due to the B1

negative charge is to the left and right for
the positive charge.
i The magnitude of the electric field strength B1

due to the positive charge is smaller than
that for the negative charge (because of
greater distance).
(Hence the resultant electric field strength

is to the left.)
ii C1
energy =
ii energy = 7.67(2) × 10–19 (J) C1
ii energy = 4.8 (eV) A1
Total 5
32 i total nucleon number after fusion = 3 + 3 – M1 Allow other correct methods

4=2
i total proton number after fusion = 1 +1 – 2 M1

=0
i A0
(Hence it must be 2 neutrons after the
fusion reaction)
ii C1
(BE of neutron(s) = 0 and BE of =
28.4 MeV)
BE of nucleus = ½ × (28.4 – 11) = 8.7

(MeV)
ii BE per nucleon = 8.7/3 = 2.9 (MeV) C1

BE per nucleon = 2.9 × 106 × 1.60 × 10–19
ii BE per nucleon = 4.6 × 10–13 (J) A1
Total 5
Mark Scheme
33 i Proton is repelled (by nucleus) B1
(High-speed) proton can get close to B1 Allow ‘proton can experience the strong
(oxygen) nucleus (nuclear) force’
Not ‘collide / hit nucleus’
ii E = [0.25 - (2.24 - 2.20)] × 10–11 (J) or 0.21 C1

× 10–11 (J)
(Any C1
subject)
λ = 9.5 × 10–14 (m)

A1 Allow 2 marks for 6.9 × 10–14; E = 0.29 ×
10–11 used
Allow 1 mark for a value correctly

calculated based on any other incorrect
value for E (e.g. 8(.0) × 10–14 for E = 0.25 ×
10–11 and 5(.0) × 10–13 for E = 0.04 × 10–11)
iii Used in PET (scans) M1 Enter text here.
Any one from:

Used to diagnose function of organ / brain / A1
body
Detection of cancer / tumour
Non-invasive / no surgery / no infection
3D (image)
Total 7
Mark Scheme
34 i Vq = ½ mv2 and M1 Allow p for mv

Allow e for q in (b)(i) – this is to be treated
as a ‘slip’
A1
Clear algebra leading to
ii 1 (% uncertainty in λ2 =) 10% C1
(% uncertainty in λ =) 5% A1 Note 10 (%) on answer line will score the

C1 mark
2 Straight line of best fit passes through all B1

error bars
3 gradient = 1.0 (× 10–22) C1 Ignore POT for this mark; Allow ± 0.20 (×
10–22)
gradient
C1
gradient C1 Possible ECF for incorrect value of

gradient
m = 6.9 × 10 –27 (kg) (hence about 10–26 A1 Note check for AE (condone rounding error
kg) here) and answer must be about 10–26 (kg)
for any incorrect gradient value for this A1
mark
Special case: 1.37 × 10–26 kg scores 3

marks for q = 1.6 × 10–19 C because
answer is about 10–26 kg
Total 9
35 C1
C1
wavelength = 2.4 × 10–12 (m) A1
Total 3
Mark Scheme
36 C1
C1
N = 2.9 × 1015 (s–1) A1

Examiner's Comments
The term ‘photon’ and the 480 nm

wavelength should have prompted most
candidates to calculate the energy of a
single photon. The most common answer
was to divide the 1.2 mW by 480 nm. Once
again, it was the top-end candidates who
correctly arrived at the answer of 2.9 × 1015
photons per second. About 1 in every five
candidates omitted this question.
Total 3
37 5.0 eV = 8.0 × 10–19 (J) and 2.0 eV = 3.2 × B1 Allow correct answers in terms of threshold
10–19 (J) frequency / wavelength for the metals and
the frequency / wavelength of the photon
B1 Allow first two B1 marks for photon energy

quoted as 6.6 × 10–19 J and 4.1 eV
photon energy =
energy of photon > work function of X Or B1

energy of photon < work function of Y
Hence electrons emitted from X with speed B1

/ KE from zero to a maximum value and no
electrons are emitted from Y
Total 4
38 C1
C1
λ = 1.2 × 10–12 (m) A1 Allow 2 marks for 2.4 × 10–12 (m); factor of
2 omitted in the first line.
Total 3
Mark Scheme
39 *Level 3 (5–6 marks) B1 × 6 Indicative scientific points may include:

Clear explanation and discussion
There is a well-developed line of reasoning Explanation

which is clear and logically structured. The
information presented is relevant and hf = Φ + KEmax (any subject)
substantiated. A graph of KEmax against f is a straight
line graph with gradient = h (and
Level 2 (3–4 marks) intercept = –Φ )
Some explanation and some discussion Draw a straight best-fit line through
points and determine the gradient
There is a line of reasoning presented with using a ‘large triangle’
some structure. The information presented
is in the most-part relevant and supported Discussion of accuracy and precision
by some evidence.
% uncertainties are 4.8% for A and
Level 1 (1–2 marks) 9.1% for B
Limited explanation or limited discussion Data points widely spread out for B.
(ORA)
The information is basic and For B the value of h is accurate
communicated in an unstructured way. The because its closer to the real / actual
information is supported by limited value (but the results are not precise)
evidence and the relationship to the For A the value of h is precise because
evidence may not be clear. of the smaller % uncertainty (but the
result is not accurate)
0 marks
No response or no response worthy of
credit.
Total 6
Mark Scheme
40 i hf = ϕ + KE(max) and kinetic energy = 0 B1 Examiner’s Comments

(at f0) (therefore ϕ = hf0) About a third of the candidates showed
how Einstein’s photoelectric equation led to
the expression ϕ = hf0. The key in securing
a mark was stating that the kinetic energy
of the electrons is zero at the threshold
frequency. Some candidates lost the mark
for careless work such as writing
hf0 = ϕ + KEmax.
ii Data point (to with ½ small square) and a B1 Not freehand / wobbly line
reasonable straight (best-fit) line drawn
with a straight edge / ruler
Most candidates picked up the mark for
plotting the data point and drawing a best
fit line. Examiners were a lenient with the
marking of the line of best fit. Candidates
must use rulers and ensure an equal
spread of data plots about their best fit
lines.
iii Correct conversion from eV to J using B1 Note this can be a single value of ϕ or Δϕ
1.6 × 10–19
(gradient = h)
gradient determined and B1 Allow value of h must be given to 2 or

h = (6.4 to 7.4) × 10–34 (J s) 3 SF
The determination of Planck constant h
from the gradient of the best fit line was
impeccably undertaken by the top-end
candidates. A large triangle was used to
determine the gradient of the best fit line.
More than half of the candidates correctly
converted the eV to J. The most common
errors here were:
Using 1.0 × 10–19, rather than

1.6 × 10–19 to convert eV to J.
Calculating the gradient using eV
values.
Omitting the 1014 factor for the
frequency.
Mark Scheme
iv Draw a worst-fit line (and determine B1 Allow (line of) maximum / minimum
gradient / h) (AW) gradient
% uncertainty = (h from biii - h from worst B1 Ignore sign

line) × 100 ÷ h from biii Allow gradient instead of h
or
Calculate the average h using f0 and ϕ B1

(values)
% uncertainty = (½ range ÷ average h) B1

× 100
About one in ten candidates omitted this
question. Many candidates realised that a
worst-fit line had to be draw, with or without
error bars, and then its gradient used to
determine the percentage uncertainty in
the experimental value for h. A significant
number of candidates gave answers in
terms of percentage difference between
their experimental value and the accepted
value for Planck constant.
Total 6
Mark Scheme
41 i (surface area =) 4π × (1.4 × 109)2 or 2.46 C1 Allow 2.5 × 1019 (m2)

× 1019 (m2) Note: Using π × (1.4 × 109)2 is wrong
physics; hence no marks in this show
question
C1 Examiner’s Comments
intensity = 1.1 × 108 (W m–2) A0 This was a demanding question designed

for middle and top-end candidates. The
radiant intensity is equal to the power
transmitted per unit cross–sectional area.
The area being that of a sphere of radius
1.4 × 109 m. The equation 4πR2 was
appropriate here. The common errors,
mainly from the low–scoring candidates,
were using πR2 and . All the key

steps in the calculations had to be
structured well for
ii C1
E = 4.0 × 10–19 (J)

A1 Note: Answer to 3 SF is 3.98 × 10–19 (J)
Allow 4 × 10–19 (J) without any SF penalty
Most candidates were familiar with the

equation for the energy of the photon.
Answers were generally well–structured
and calculations were undertaken without
much error in either rearranging the
equation or powers of ten. The answer to
two significant figures was 4.0 × 10–19 J, as
in the general rule with such answers, 4 ×
10–19 J was acceptable without any
significant figure penalty.
Mark Scheme
iii
number per second = 6.8 × 1045 (s–1) B1 Possible ECF from (b)(ii)
This was a successful end for the top–end

candidates, who correctly divided the total
output power of Procyon of 2.7 × 1027 W by
the energy of each photon from (b)(ii). The
two common errors were dividing the
intensity by the photon energy and
changing the photon energy from joule (J)
to electron–volt (eV).
Total 5
Mark Scheme
42 a E = (hc/λ =) 6.63 × 10–34 × 3.0 × 108/450 × C1

10–9
E = 4.42 × 10–19 (J) C1
energy = 2.76 (eV) A1 N.B. the answer here must be 2 SF or

more
b i 2.76 – 2.3 = 0.46 eV (so only 0.5% of B1 allow 2.8 – 2.3 = 0.5 eV and 3.0 – 2.3 = 0.7
energy/AW) eV possible ecf from (b)
ii n = 2000 × 49 (= 5.24 × 108) C1 allow ecf for wrong n
Q = ne = 8.4 × 10–11 (C) C1
I = 8.4 × 10–11 / 2.5 × 10–9
average current = 0.034 (A) A1 allow 34 m(A); answer is 1.7 × 10–5 A if

2000 omitted (2/3)
Almost all of the candidates attempted this

last section of the paper with some
success. In part (i) most candidates
showed that they understood the theory
behind the question and subtracted the
appropriate two numbers from part (b) to
gain the mark. Part (ii) was done well with
a significant number obtaining the correct
answer. Another large group forgot that
2000 electrons were released and
performed the calculation for only a single
electron being multiplied up and so
forfeited the final mark.
Total 7
Mark Scheme
43 i Kinetic energy (of proton) changes to B1 Allow ‘it’ / PE for (electric) potential energy
potential (energy) Allow KE / Ek
or
Potential energy increases as the kinetic
energy (of the proton) decreases
or
Potential energy increases as work is done
against the field / against repulsion /
positive charge
Mark Scheme
ii energy = 0.52 × 106 × 1.60 × 10–19 or C1

8.3(2) × 10–14 (J)
C1
R = 7.5 × 10–14 (m) A1 Allow 2 mark for 1.6 × 10–13 (m); Z = 59

used
Allow 2 mark for 8.9 × 10–14 (m); Z = 32

used
Allow 1 mark for 2.8 × 10–15 (m); Z = 1

used
Allow 1 mark for 1.2 × 10–32 (m); energy =

5.2 × 105 used
The above question on electric potential

energy provided excellent discrimination
with middle and upper quartile candidates
showing how to produce immaculate
answers – identify the physics, write down
the correct physical equation, do any
necessary conversions (e.g. MeV to J),
rearrange the equation, substitute correctly
and then write the final answer in standard
form to the correct number of significant
figures. About a third of the candidates
scored full marks.
Some of the missed opportunities or errors

were:
Using an incorrect equation with the

distance squared
Not correctly converting the kinetic
energy 0.52 MeV into joule (J)
Using the equation r = r0A1/3 for the
mean radius of a nucleus to determine
the minimum distance
Total 4
Mark Scheme
44 (E =) 1.8 × 1.6 × or2.88 × 10–19 (J) C1

10–19
C1
λ = 6.9 × 10–7 (m) A1
Total 3
45 i C1
A1 Note answer to 3 SF is 4.06 × 10–19

–19
energy = 4.1 × 10 (J)
ii C1 Possible ECF from (b)(i)

(number of photons =)
A1
number of photons = 5.7 × 1017 Note answer is 5.6 × 1017 when 4.1 × 10–19
is used
Total 4
Mark Scheme
46 a Level 3 (5–6 marks) B1 Indicative scientific points may include:

Clear explanation of observations and
clear evidence of particulate nature of Explanation of Observations
electromagnetic waves
There is a well-developed line of reasoning Discharge due to the emission of

which is clear and logically structured. The electrons / negative charge
information presented is relevant and Intensity depends on distance
substantiated. Rate of incident photons is more at
smaller distances
Level 2 (3–4 marks) Greater intensity / rate of uv photons
Clear explanation of observations or clear linked to quicker fall
evidence of particulate nature of uv causes instantaneous discharge
electromagnetic waves or has limited No effect with light
explanation of observations and limited Intensity of light has no effect on the
evidence of particulate nature of EM discharge
radiation Natural discharge over a long period of
time
There is a line of reasoning presented with
some structure. The information presented Evidence of particulate nature of em
is in the most-part relevant and supported
by some evidence.
Wave theory suggests leaf would fall
Level 1 (1–2 marks) with light
Has limited explanation of observations or Photon as packet of energy
limited evidence of particulate nature of EM One to one interaction
radiation uv photon greater energy than work
function / greater frequency than
The information is basic and threshold frequency
communicated in an unstructured way. The Light photons have less energy than
information is supported by limited the work function
evidence and the relationship to the E = hf / photon energy depends on
evidence may not be clear. frequency
Energy of photon independent of
0 marks intensity
No response or no response worthy of Energy conserved in interaction
credit. Einstein's equation (words or symbol)
Examiner's Comments
This was the second LoR question. It gave

candidates the opportunity to discuss the
photoelectric effect. Good answers were
structured well and explained the
observations with relevant theory. A
surprising number of candidates did not
appreciate that the white light did not
release photoelectrons. Good answers
clearly explained the differences between
Mark Scheme
the white light and the ultra violet light, the

effect of increasing the intensity was
related to the rate at which photons were
absorbed by the plate and gave
appropriate equations.
b 3.2 × 1.6 × 10–19 or 6.63 × 10–34 × 960 × C1

1012
Ek max = 6.63 × 10–34 × 960 × 1012 – 5.12 × C1

10–19
Ek max = 1.2 × 10–19 (J) A1 Note answer to 3 SF is 1.24 × 10–19 (J)
Examiner's Comments
This part was generally well answered.

Some weaker candidates were not able to
rearrange Einstein's equation. Other
candidates were unable to change electron
volt to joule.
Total 9
Mark Scheme
47 a (kinetic energy =) 1.6 × 10–19 × 300 C1
C1
C1 Note 1.05 × 1014 scores 2 marks; omitted

square rooting
speed = 1.03 × 107 (m s–1) A0 Examiner's Comments
Good candidates clearly showed the steps

to determine the velocity. Weaker
candidates found this question difficult.
Clear substitution of numbers is required
for these marks to be awarded.
b C1 Allow ECF from the previous question part
λ = 7.3 × 10–11 (m) B1 Allow 2 marks for 7.1 × 10–11, v = 1.03 ×

107 used
Examiner's Comments
This part was generally well answered

although some candidates confused terms
in the equation or could not deal with the
powers of ten. Some candidates were
confused and used E=hc/λ.
c Momentum / (kinetic) energy / speed (of B1

electrons) increases / (de Broglie)
wavelength decreases
Radius / diameter of rings decreases / B1 Examiner's Comments

pattern becomes ‘smaller’ (AW) or the
rings are now brighter This was another question where
candidates were expected to explain their
answers. In this case a step by step
approach was helpful. Some candidates
stated that the energy and the wavelength
would increase. Others thought that the
pattern would become larger because of
the increase in energy. Candidates should
be encouraged to write clear, logical
explanations.
Total 7
Mark Scheme
48 i E = hc/λ; Δε = E1 – E2 = hcΔλ/λ2 C1 allow calculation of E = hc/λ twice and

difference taken
i Δε = 6.63 × 10–34 × 3 × 108 × 0.6 × 10–9/ C1

5.92 × 10–14
i Δε = 3.4 × 10–22 (J) A1
ii sin θ = nλ/d; 1/d = 3 × 105 (m–1) C1
ii θ1 – θ2 = sin–1 (2 × 589.6 × 3 × 10–4) – sin–1 M1 or similar

(2 × 589 × 3 × 10–4)
ii θ1 – θ2 = 20.717 – 20. 695 = 0.0220 A1 allow 20.72 – 20.70
Total 6
49 The minimum frequency of the EM waves / B1 Allow ‘minimum / smallest frequency of EM

light / uv / photon for the removal of wave to cause photoelectron emission’
(surface) electron(s) Not wave
To gain the one mark for the threshold
frequency candidates had to mention
electromagnetic waves or photon and
minimum frequency for the removal of
electrons.
Less than a third of the candidates gave an
adequate definition. Poorer answers
confused threshold frequency with work
function of the metal.
Total 1
Mark Scheme
50 a Photon(s) mentioned B1
One-to-one interaction between photons B1 Allow ‘photon absorbed by an electron’

and electrons Allow: collide etc. for interaction
Energy of photon is independent of B1 Allow E = hf or E = hc/λ

intensity / intensity is to do with rate (of
photons / photoelectric emission) / photon
energy depends on frequency / energy of
photon depends on wavelength / photon
energy ∝ frequency / photon energy ∝ 1/λ
B1 Allow energy of light photon(s) < work
energy of uv photon(s) > work function (of function (of zinc) / frequency of light >
zinc) / frequency of uv > threshold threshold frequency
frequency Allow ≥ instead of > here
Not f > f0
Examiner’s Comment
Many candidates wrote enthusiastically
about photoelectric effect and understood
the significance of work function energy (or
threshold frequency) and the one-to-one
interaction between photon and an
electron. Some candidates did not mention
‘photons’ and this limited the marks they
could acquire. The role of intensity was
less understood. Many candidates thought
it was linked to ‘the number of photons’ or
‘the amount of electrons emitted. The
important term rate of the missing
ingredient. Top-end candidates gave
eloquent answers, typified by the
response: ‘intensity of visible light only
affects the rate of photons incident on the
plate but not the energy of each photon’.
Two common misconceptions were:
Photons were emitted from the

negative plate.
Confusing threshold frequency and
work function energy.
Mark Scheme
b C1
E = 5.1 × 1.60 × 10-19 or 8.16 × 10-19 (J) C1 Note: Using 5.1 and not 8.16 × 10-19
max kinetic energy = (8.16 – 6.86) × 10-19 cannot score this mark or the next mark
max kinetic energy = 1.3 × 10-19 (J)

A1 Allow 2 marks for 0.81 eV
This was a notable success for most of the
candidates. Examiners were pleased to
see a range of techniques being used to
get the correct answer of 1.3 × 10-19 J.
Many answers showed excellent structure,
effortless conversion of energy from
electronvolt to joule and excellent use of
the calculator when dealing with powers of
ten. Most candidates scored three marks.
A small number of candidates left the final
answer as 0.81 eV; the only thing missing
was the conversion to J.
Mark Scheme
c Any three from: B1×3

The electrons are repelled by C / electrons
travel against the electric field (AW)
The electrons are emitted with a ‘range’ of Note ‘range’ can be implied by ‘highest’ or
speed / velocity / kinetic energy (AW) ‘lowest’
As V increases the slow(er) electrons do
not reach C and hence I decreases
maximum KE in the range 2.1 eV to 2.2 eV Allow ‘find p.d. when current is (just) zero,
or 3.36 × 10-19 J to 3.52 × 10-19 J and then KE = e × V
The electrons emitted from the metal plate
have a range of kinetic energy. The
emitted electrons are repelled by the
negative electrode C. Fewer electrons
reach C as the p.d. is increased. When the
p.d. is about 2.2 V, and the current zero,
the most energetic electron are stopped
from reaching C. This makes the maximum
kinetic energy of the electrons equal to
2.2 eV or 3.4 × 10-19 J.
The question baffled most candidates.
Some top-end candidates commented on
‘the electrons repelled by C’ and the
maximum kinetic energy of the emitted
electrons being 2.2 eV. Such answers
were rare. Too many candidates made
guesses with answers such as ‘the current
drops because resistance increases’ and
‘temperature increases and hence the
current decreases’.
Total 10
Mark Scheme
51 i electron bound to nucleus / represents B1 Allow ionisation level defined as zero as

energy electron must gain to leave the AW for ‘represents electron must gain
atom / total energy of electron in atom is energy to leave atom / move up energy
less than that of a free electron level’
Allow potentials for attractive forces are
negative.
This item provided good discrimination
between the candidates. Many responses
referred incompletely to the negative
charge of the electron being the only
factor, whereas the correct explanation is
much more to do with the electron
requiring energy to leave the atom and the
ionization level being defined as the zero
point.
Some candidates were on the right path

when they referred to the equivalent
statement for gravitational potential
energies.
ii 1 energy = 2.55 (eV) B1 Ignore sign

2 energy = 2.55 × 1.60 × 10–19 (J) C1 Possible ECF from (ii)1
C1
wavelength = 4.9 × 10–7 (m)
wavelength = 490 (nm) A1 Note: wavelength = 488 (nm) to 3 sf
Virtually all candidates correctly evaluated
the energy difference to be 2.55 eV.
Negative values were condoned but are
unlikely to be accepted in future series.
Many candidates correctly calculated the

wavelength of emitted light, although a
minority did not convert the energy into
joules or performed the required
conversion to nanometres incorrectly.
Total 5
Mark Scheme
52 a i At point P: path difference between slits B1 Allow nλ or λ

and screen is a whole / integer number of Not phase difference
wavelengths (for constructive interference)
Allow
At point Q: path difference between slits B1
Not λ/2
and screen is an odd number of half
wavelengths (for destructive interference)
It was expected that candidates would
describe the path difference in terms of the
wavelength. Candidates often realised that
the bright line would have a path difference
of an integer number of wavelengths, this
was often written as nλ. To explain the
dark line many candidates struggled with
the appropriate relationship in terms of λ or
did not state an odd number of half
wavelengths.
Mark Scheme
ii 1 x = 4.22 mm C1 Note x = 42.2 mm or 4.2 × 10–2 m scores

zero
Note x = 3.84, 4.77 × 10–7 m may score
C1 max 2
–7
5.25 × 10 m
A1
2
C1
A1 Allow 4% or 5% with evidence of working

Ignore significant figures
Alternative max / min method:
B1
B1
Although candidates correctly identified the
correct equation, a large number of
candidates did not determine the fringe
spacing correctly. Some candidates used
42.2 cm, others divided 42.2 cm by 11, 15
or 20. Furthermore, some candidates did
not convert the slit separation from
millimetres to metres. Candidates were
able to identify the equation from the Data,
Formulae and Relationships Booklet.
Most candidates were able to determine at
least one percentage uncertainty for the
individual quantities correctly. Mistakes
were made either on determining the other
quantities or adding the percentage
uncertainties. Some candidates attempted
a maximum / minimum method – the
common error with this method was not
dividing maximum by minimum or minimum
by maximum.
Mark Scheme
b i C1 Allow ecf from bii
A1
Candidates found this question difficult.
Many could not determine the energy of a
photon correctly – an error carried forward
was allowed from 5(b)(ii)1. The question
also required candidates to realise that
50.0 mW is equivalent to 50.0 mJ s–1.
A common error was to divide the power
by the charge on an electron.
ii 2.6 eV = 2.6 × 1.6 × 10–19= 4.16 × 10–19 J M1 Allow photon has 2.37 eV of energy
ORA
Energy of photon is less than work function A1 Allow conclusion based 5 c i

so photoelectrons will not be emitted
To explain whether photoelectrons will be
emitted, candidates needed to convert the
work function measured in electron volt to
joule. A clear conclusion was needed.
Total 11
Mark Scheme
53 a B1 allow proton and / or nucleon number to

the right of symbol
B1 allow γ-photon; zero for any other extra
particle
Most candidates made a good start to the
paper writing a correct equation for the
nuclear decay.
b mv = (4.00 – 0.0665) × 10–25 × 2.40 × 105 C1 allow 0.07 × 10–25 for α-particle mass
= 9.44 × 10–20
v = 9.44 × 10–20/ 6.65 × 10–27 = 1.42 × 107 C1 max 3 if use 4.00 instead of 3.93 in
momentum eq’n
allow ratio of masses 234 and 4 or
calculations using 234u and 4u
k.e. = ½ × 6.65 × 10–27 × (1.42 × 107)2 allow p2/2m calculation for k.e.
= 6.70 × 10–13 (J) A1 accept 4.0 to 4.2; ecf (calculated value of
6.70 × 10–13 / 1.60 × 10–13 = 4.19 (MeV) k.e. in J)/e
B1 N.B. the correct answer automatically
gains all 4 marks
One mark in this question was reserved for
converting units from joule into mega
electronvolt. This was the only mark
awarded to half of the candidates. Few
recognised this to be an isolated system,
applying the conservation of momentum to
solve the problem. Few appeared to realise
that the mass of an alpha particle is given
in the Data, Formulae, and Relationships
Booklet, calculating it instead by summing
the masses of neutrons and protons. The
most common incorrect approach was to
use the formula E = mc2 or to equate the
kinetic energies of the thorium nucleus and
alpha particle.
Mark Scheme
c ΔA = 32 = 4nα so nα = 8 B1 allow 8 (decays), i.e no mention of

α particles
ΔZ = 10 = 2nα – nβ so nβ = 6 B1 allow 10 – 16 = –6; NOT 14 – 8 = 6; must
state β(–) particles
argument / reasoning given for both nα and B1 e.g. change in mass number caused by α
nβ decay,change in proton number
combination of α and β
A significant number had no idea where to
start and left the page blank. Of the rest
most managed to decide on 8 alpha
particles. A minority worked initially with
the proton number rather than the nucleon
number incorrectly choosing 5. The
explanations about the choice of 6 beta
particles were often just restricted to
equating the numbers correctly rather than
giving any description of the transformation
of neutrons into protons.
Total 9
Mark Scheme
54 a i Energy of a photon B1 Ignore h is Planck constant and f is

frequency
Many candidates simply defined the

symbols as opposed to the term. It was
expected that candidates would state that
hf was the energy of a photon.
ii Minimum energy required to remove/emit B1 Ignore ‘it is work function’

(a single) electron from the metal surface Ignore photoelectric effect
Again, a common answer was to state that

ϕ represented the work function rather
than defining what is meant by work
function. Good candidates stated that the
work function was the minimum energy
needed to remove an electron from a metal
surface.
b i 4.1 eV = = 4.1 × 1.6 × 10–19 or 6.56 × 10–19 C1 Allow f0 = 9.9 × 1014 Hz

J OR
Ek = 6.63 × 10–34 × 1.2 × 1015 – ϕ
Ek = 6.63 × 10–34 × 1.2 × 1015 – 6.56 × C1 Allow

10–19
Ek = 6.63 × 10–34 × (1.2 × 1015 – 9.9 × 1014)
Ek = 1.39 × 10–19 J C1 Allow 1.4 × 10–19 J
C1
3.06 × 1011 scores three marks
5.536 × 105 m s–1 A0 Examiner’s Comments
Good candidates clearly showed the

individual steps in this calculation, e.g. the
conversion of electron-volt to joule for the
work function, the energy of the photon
calculated. It was important that candidates
demonstrated that they had substituted the
mass of the electron from the data booklet
Mark Scheme
and correctly evaluated the square root

term. Examiners expected to see 5.536 ×
105 (m s–1) for full credit so that it was clear
that candidates had correctly calculated
the powers of ten.
Exemplar 9
In line 3 of the candidate’s working, there is

a rearrangement of the equation given at
the beginning of the question. There is
then clear substitution of the energy of a
photon which was calculated in line 1 and
the work function which had been
converted from electron volt to joule in line
2 to give a value for the maximum kinetic
energy of the electrons. This scores three
marks.
In the final part the candidate correctly

shows the rearrangement of the kinetic
energy equation to give v as the subject
and then correctly substitutes in the values
including the mass of the electron from the
data and formulae sheet.
The final answer is given as 5.527 × 105

which is then shown to be approximately
equal to 5.5 × 105 (ms–1). This last part is
essential in these show type questions.
Mark Scheme
ii Maximum energy is independent of M1

intensity/(number of photons has increased
but) energy of photon is the same/energy
of a photon is only dependent on
frequency/intensity affects the number of
photons/electrons released only/frequency
of photon has not changed
No change in maximum speed A1 Not “Does not increase”
For this type of question, a clear

explanation is needed before the mark for
stating the change, if any. Candidates’
descriptions were often vague, and few
stated that the maximum energy was
independent of intensity.
c C1
The final question was either answered

= 1.3(2) × 10–9 (m)
A1 very well or candidates chose an incorrect
equation, often E = .
Total 10
Mark Scheme
55 Allow f for frequency, λ for wavelength and

ϕ for work function throughout
Allow ‘overcome’ / ‘met’ / ‘reached’ when

describing > or <
Allow photons
Any one from:

Energy of visible light photon < work B1 Not f0 for threshold frequency
function (of zinc) (frequency of) visible Allow equivalent statement with
(light/photon) < threshold frequency wavelength
Any one from: B1 Allow = instead of > or < throughout for UV

Energy of UV photon > work function (of Allow equivalent statement with
zinc) (frequency of) UV (radiation/photon) wavelength
> threshold frequency
Any two from:
Collapse of leaf linked to removal of B1 × 2 Ignore stem / plate / leaf / electroscope

electrons becoming positive
One-to-one interaction of photon and
(surface) electron
Photon energy is independent of
intensity / Intensity linked to rate of
photons (incident on the zinc plate) Examiner’s Comments
This question on the photoelectric effect

was enthusiastically answered by
candidates. Good discrimination enabled
many of the top-end candidates to score
full marks. The question was scrutinised
well with many candidates explaining why
the leaf fell with the ultraviolet radiation.
The one-to-one interaction between UV
photons and surface electrons was nicely
embedded in the descriptions. Some of the
candidates would have benefitted by
writing their answers in bullet points.
There were a few missed opportunities and

misconceptions, these are outlined below:
Mark Scheme
Photons were emitted from the zinc

plate (rather than electrons)
Threshold frequency and work function
were properties of the photons or
electrons (and not zinc)
Threshold frequency and work function
were synonymous
Intensity was linked to number of
photons (rather than to the rate of
photons)
Referring to ‘not enough energy’
instead of work function of the metal in
the description
Total 4
Mark Scheme
56 a i Threshold frequency is the minimum B1 Allow electrons

frequency (of the incident EM Allow photoelectron / photoelectrons
waves/photon) to detach / emit / remove /
release an electron (from the surface of the
silver) Examiner’s Comments
The majority of the candidates gained a

mark for this question. When the mark was
not scored, it was often due to candidates
not realising it was the “minimum”
frequency or answering the question in
terms of energy.
ii 1.1(0) x 1015 (Hz) B1 Examiner’s Comments
Most candidates were able to read the

threshold frequency from the graph. Where
errors were made it was for either mis-
reading the scale as 1.2 or omitting the
1015 Hz.
AfL
When reading data from a graph, read the

scale and the units from each axis.
Mark Scheme
iii 6.63 x 10-34 x 1.1 x 1015 or 7.293 x 10-19 C1 Allow substitution of point from graph into
Einstein’s equation
Allow use of gradient as the Planck
constant
4.6 (eV) A1 Note 4.558... eV
The majority of the candidates scored two

marks on this question. Again, clear
working assists candidates with
appropriate units being included in
intermediate stages of the calculation.
Most candidates calculated the work
function from the threshold frequency, their
answer to the previous part. Some
candidates correctly took a data point from
the graph and substituted it into Einstein’s
photoelectric equation which also gained
credit.
Exemplar 8
The candidate states the condition for the

threshold frequency, indicates clearly the
calculation of the work function in joule,
before clearly demonstrating the
conversion to electron volt so gained both
marks.
Mark Scheme
b Any four from: B1 x 4

electrons may be diffracted by
graphite/carbon/atoms/crystal lattice The final question gave candidates the
to produce rings / circular interference opportunity to describe the electron
fringes diffraction experiment. Answers were often
diffraction of electrons occurs when the vague, lacking necessary detail. Most
wavelength is comparable / similar to candidates were able to describe electrons
the gap size being diffracted by a graphite crystal
changes in the electron’s speed/energy lattice. Additional marks could have been
change the size of the ring / gained by discussing the observations, the
interference fringe spacing idea that electrons have a de Broglie
electrons have a (de Broglie) wavelength and how the wavelength may
wavelength given by λ=h/p be changed and the effect on the
reason for the rings as opposed to observations of a change in wavelength.
linear pattern, e.g. graphite atoms are Some candidates described why a circular
irregularly arranged. pattern may be produced.
Total 8
Mark Scheme
57 a Diffraction (of electrons by matter) B1 Examiner’s Comments
The majority of the candidates scored a

mark for recalling that electron diffraction
provided the key evidence for the wave-like
behaviour of electrons. Two of the most
frequent incorrect responses were
refraction and the photoelectric effect.
b i (KE =) 210 × 1.60 × 10-19 (J) or 3.36 × 10-17 C1 Note using KE = 210 (J) is wrong physics
(J) XP
½ × 9.11 × 10-31 × v2 = 3.36 × 10-17 C1
v = 8.6 × 106 (ms-1) A1 Note the answer must be to more than 1

SF
This was not a straight forward question

but most candidates demonstrated
excellent knowledge and application of
physics here. The conversion of 210 eV
was often done correctly. The K.E.
equation was used successfully to show
the final speed of the electrons to be about
8.6 × 106 m s-1.
The exemplar 11 below shows a model
response from a top-end candidate.
Exemplar 11
This exemplar shows a typical response

produced by most of the candidates. The
conversion from eV to J is very clear. The
correct mass of the electron has been used
to get the response of 8.6 × 106 ms-1. It is
good to report that very few candidates
used 210 J to get the impossible response
of 2.1 × 1016 ms-1.
Mark Scheme
ii C1 Possible ECF from (i)
A1 Allow 2 marks for 8.1 × 10-11 (m); v = 9 ×

106 ms-1 used
λ = 8.5 × 10-11 (m)
The majority of the candidates effortlessly

used the de Broglie equation and their
answer from (b)(i), or 9 × 106 m s-1, to
calculate the wavelength λ of the electron.
Misconception
The two common mistakes being made

here were:
Using 3.0 × 108 m s-1 for the speed

instead of 8.6 × 106 m s-1.
Using the energy of the photon
equation
instead of
c Ignore references to frequencies and
threshold frequency
Allow photoelectron instead of electron
One photon interacts with one electron B1 throughout
energy of photon = (maximum) KE (of B1 Note an equation is required

electron) + work function (of the metal) Allow hf = KE(max) + φ, with *hf = energy of
photon, KE(max) = (maximum) KE (of
electron) and φ = work function
*Not hf = Planck constant × frequency
(since there is no reference to ‘energy of
photon’)
Allow energy of photons = ........as BOD
Work function is the minimum energy B1 Allow φ instead of work function for this
(required) to remove electron (from the mark
surface of a metal) Allow ‘work done’ instead of ‘energy’
Allow ...electrons ....as BOD
Electron removed / photoelectric effect B1 Allow electron removed / photoelectric

when energy of photon is greater than / effect when hf > φ
Mark Scheme
equal to work function (of the metal) or electron removed / photoelectric effect
when hf = φ
or electron not removed / no photoelectric
effect when hf < φ
Allow electrons and photons as BOD
This question on the photoelectric effect

provided excellent discrimination with most
candidates demonstrating good knowledge
of the photoelectric effect. The work
function was well defined and the key idea
of the one-to-one interaction between a
photon and an electron was communicated
well. Some candidates took work function
and threshold frequency to be
synonymous, and the Einstein’s
photoelectric equation was quoted without
much interpretation. Candidates are once
again reminded that in descriptions it is
important to define any terms used. Rather
than just writing hf = φ + KEmax (which
appears on the Data, Formulae and
Relationship booklet), it would have would
have been better to write energy of photon
= work function of the metal + maximum
kinetic energy of the electron as an
alternative to annotating the formula with
“where h is , f is , φ is, KEmax is ” Overall,
the terms highlighted in the question
helped candidates to provide focused
responses. Many candidates continue to
show knowledge of the quantum physics.
Total 10
Mark Scheme
58 i (P =) 0.01 × 2.5 or 0.012 × 250 or 2.52/250 C1

or 0.025 (W)
or 4.23 × 10-19 C1 Allow 4.0 × 10-19 (J); which is 2.5 eV

(J)
(number per second =
A1 Note using 4.0 × 10-19 (J) gives 6.25 × 1016
number per second = 5.9 × 1016 (s-1)
(s-1)
This question required knowledge of both

power and energy of photons. It
discriminated well with many of the top end
candidates getting the correct of 5.9 × 1016
s-1. A significant number of candidates
scored 1 mark for the energy of the
photons. Using the power of 0.025 W in the
final step of the calculation proved to be
the main obstacle in this calculation.
Alternative answers using the energy of a
photon as 2.5 eV were allowed. This gave
the rate of photons emission to be 4.0 ×
1016 s-1.
Misconception
The most common mistake was to

calculate the energy of the photon in joule,
but to write the frequency 6.4 × 1014 on the
answer line. This wayward answer can
perhaps be explained by frequency and the
rate of photon emissions having the same
units – s-1.
ii (Ephoton =) 2.64 (eV) or (φ =) 3.68 × 10-19 (J) M1 Possible ECF from (i)
or (f0 =) 5.55 × 1014 (Hz) or (λ0 =) 5.40 × Allow 2.6 (eV) or 3.7 × 10-19 (J)
10-7 (m) Allow 2.5 (eV) as the energy of the photon
Photoelectrons are emitted and 2.6(4) > A1 Note the conclusion must be consistent
2.3 with (i)
or 4.23 × 10-19 > 3.68 × 10-19 Allow hf > φ
or 6.38 × 1014 (Hz) > 5.55 × 1014 (Hz) Note this can be implied by calculating the
or 4.7 × 10-7 (m) < 5.40 × 10-7 (m) KE of the emitted electron
Mark Scheme
Most candidates showed excellent

knowledge and understanding of
electronvolts and the photoelectric
equation. A variety of answers were
accepted. The most common approach
was to calculate the energy of the photon
in eV, and then either show that this was
greater than the work function of the metal
or to calculate the kinetic energy of the
emitted photoelectron. A lot of confidence
in the topic of quantum physics was
evident in the answers from the
candidates. This is illustrated by exemplar
8 below from a middle-grade candidate.
Exemplar 8
This exemplar shows the right blend of

calculations and scientific text to support
the response. Good command of quantum
physics earned this candidate full marks.
OCR support
Being aware of the contents of the data,

formulae and relationship booklet and its
layout will support candidates, alleviating
the need to recall numerical values of
constants and allowing retrieval of correct
formulae, or giving assurance that the
student has recalled correctly.
Total 5
Mark Scheme
59 a i Less energy used from power stations, B1

which in turn produce less carbon dioxide
emissions and hence less environmental
damage
or
Infrequent need for disposal of LED lamps
has less impact on landfill sites or use of
natural resources.
ii The energy of a photon depends on the B1

wavelength or frequency.
ii Energy does not depend on intensity B1

therefore energy of the photon is the
same.
b i Electrons behave or travel as waves. B1
i The rings demonstrate that the electrons B1

are diffracted by individual carbon atoms /
spacing between carbon atoms.
i The (de Broglie) wavelength of the B1

electrons is comparable to the ‘size’ of the
carbon atoms or the spacing between
carbon atoms.
ii C1 Correct use of ½ mv2 = eV
ii C1
ii wavelength = 3.5 × 10–11 (m)
iii Results published to allow peer review B1

Procedure shared with other scientists to
allow replication
Total 9
Mark Scheme
60 a * Level 3 (5–6 marks) B1 Experiment (E)

at least E3,4 and 2 or 5
at least P1,2 and 5
1 Adjust the potential divider to low or
There is a well-developed line of reasoning zero voltage
which is clear and logically structured. The 2 connect flying lead to one LED
information presented is relevant and 3 increase voltage until LED just lights
substantiated. or strikes
4 repeat several times and average to
Level 2 (3–4 marks) find Vmin
expect 3 points from E and 2 points from P 5 repeat for each LED
or 2 points from E and 3 points from P 6 shield LED inside opaque tube to
judge strike more accurately.
There is a line of reasoning presented with
some structure. The information presented Processing (P)
is in the most-part relevant and supported
by some evidence.
1 a graph of Vmin against 1/λ will be a
Level 1 (1–2 marks) straight line
at least 2 points from E and 1 point from P 2 through the origin
or vice versa. 3 so need to calculate values of 1/λ
4 then draw line of best fit through
The information is basic and origin
communicated in an unstructured way. The 5 gradient G = Vmin λ = hc/e
information is supported by limited 6 hence h = eG/c
evidence and the relationship to the
evidence may not be clear.
0 marks
No response or no response worthy of
credit.
b i The wave-model cannot explain the cut-off B1 Allow reverse argument in terms of
frequency / threshold frequency photons, e.g. the photon-model can explain
the threshold frequency
i Nor why the KE of the electrons is B1 and why the KE of the electrons is
dependent on frequency dependent on frequency.
ii h = 32 × 10–20/5 × 10–14 C1 sensible attempt at gradient gains 1 mark
ii = 6.4 × 10–34 (J s) A1
iii 8.75 ± 0.25 × 1014 (Hz) B1 tolerance is to within grid square
iv φ = 6.4 × 10–34 × 8.75 × 1014 C1 ecf (b)(i)(ii)
Mark Scheme
iv = 5.6 × 10–19 (J) A1
Total 13
61 a ε = hc / λ C1
3.5 × 10–19 = 6.6 × 10–34 × 3.0 × 108/ λ M1
λ= 5.66 × 10–7 (m) A1
b i ε = eV = 12 × 1.6 × 10–19 =1.92 × 10–18 (J) B1
i ½mv2 = 1.92 × 10–18 C1 Allow ecf for energy value
i v2 = 2 × 1.92 × 10–18/ 9.1 × 10–31 = 4.22 × C1

1012
i v = 2.05 × 106 (m s–1) A1
ii accelerates from 0 to v so use v / 2 C1 ecf (i)
ii t = 5 × 10–3/1 × 106 = 5 × 10–9 (s) A1 Allow 1 mark for 2.5 × 10–9s
c electrons emitted / s = 1.0 × 10–9 / 1.6 × C1

10–19 = 6.25 × 109
photons arriving = 6.25 × 109 × 20 = 1.25 C1

1011
ε = 1.25 1011 × 4.0 × 10–19 = 5.0 × 10–8 (J A1 Allow ecf: 1 out of 3 for correct answer
s–1) from any quoted number of electrons
emitted / s
Total 12
Mark Scheme
62 i Discrete energy (of electrons in an atom) / B1

quantised energy (of electrons in an atom) Examiner's Comments
/ permitted energy (states of electrons in
an atom). Most candidates, across the ability
spectrum, struggled to give an acceptable
definition of an energy level. Energy levels
were seen as ‘shells’ or ‘orbits’ rather than
the quantised energy of electrons within
the atom.
ii C1
or E = 2.763
–15
× 10 (J)
ii value of energy level = - (3.2 - 2.763) × C1

10–15 (J)
ii value of energy level = - 4.4 × 10–16 (J) A1 Note : The answer must be negative to
score the A1 mark
Note: 4.4 × 10–16 (J) scores 2 marks
Examiner's Comments
Most candidates correctly determined the

energy of the X-ray photon. The value of
the energy level labelled B had to be a
negative value. The most common answer
was 4.4 × 10–16 J, which scored two marks.
iii (λ0 is) halved. M1
iii Explanation: Reference to (photon / A1 Allow explanation in terms of eV = hc/λ.

electron kinetic) energy doubled and E =
hc/λ or E ∝ 1/λ. Examiner's Comments
Many candidates, made good use of the

clues provided in the question, to give well
reasoned explanations. The equations E =
hc/λ or eV = hc/λ were often used to
support the answers. A small number of
candidates gave qualitative answers such
as ‘the energy increases and therefore the
wavelength is shorter’ and scored no
marks.
Total 6
Mark Scheme
63 a The emission of electrons from the surface B1

of a metal when electromagnetic waves (of
frequency greater than the threshold
frequency) are incident on the metal.
b The wave model cannot explain why there B1

is a threshold frequency for metals.
The new model / photon model proposed B1

one-to-one interaction between photons
and electrons and this successfully
explained why threshold frequency exists.
Any further one from: B1

Energy of photon (hf) must be greater than
or equal to work function
of metal.
The kinetic energy of emitted electrons
was independent of the
incident intensity.
Correct reference to hf = Φ + KEmax
c i C1
i C1
i speed = 8.7 × 105 (m s–1) A1
ii The energy of a photon depends only on B1

wavelength or frequency, so intensity does
not change the maximum speed of the
photoelectrons.
Total 8
Mark Scheme
64 a C1
C1
KEmax = 2.2 × 10–20 (J) A1 Allow 3 marks for an answer of 2.0 × 10–20
J; value of h to 2 s.f. is used.
b The rate of photons incident on M is B1

doubled.
The rate of emission of photoelectrons / B1

current is doubled.
Total 5
Mark Scheme
65 a i energy in eV = 4.1 x 10-19/1.6 x 10-19 = 2.6 B1 expect 2.56 eV

(eV)
ii LED strikes at 2.6 V / only conducts above M1

2.6 V
ii an electron must pass through a p.d. of 2.6

V to lose energy as
ii a photon of blue light / AW. A1

Examiner's Comments
Almost all managed to calculate the energy

of a blue photon and then recognised that
it was related to the onset of current in the
LED.
b i n = I/e = 0.02/1.6 x 10-19 C1
i = 1.3 x 1017 A1 expect 1.25 x 1017
ii energy/s = 1.25 x 1017 x 4.1 x 10-19 or 2.6 V C1 ecf (c)(i); NOT 4.0 x 0.020
x 0.020 A
ii = 0.051 to 0.053 (J s-1) A1 answer is 0.053 using 1.3 x 1017
iii efficiency = 0.052/(4.0 x 20 x 10-3) C1 ecf (c)(ii)
iii A1 accept Vstrike/Voperate = 2.6/4.0 or any other

correct
iii = 0.64 (P or W out)/ (P or W in) calculation

accept 64 %
Examiner's Comments
Less than half of the candidates realised

how to calculate the number of electrons
passing through the LED per second. Only
a minority of these used this figure to
calculate the power emitted by the light.
The most popular and incorrect choice was
to use the final point on the LED
characteristic which led to confusion when
calculating the efficiency of the LED. Many
of the weaker candidates left this section
blank.
c shape similar to the curve drawn leaving x- B1 Within half a square

axis at close to 2.0 V
Mark Scheme
and passing through (3.4, 20) B1

Examiner's Comments
The majority scored both of these marks

drawing a straight line between the two
end points. A few tried to draw a freehand
graph on the blank page beneath the
question rather than adding to the printed
graph.
Total 11
Mark Scheme
66 a i energy φ required for an electron to M1

escape from metal surface the minimum
energy........
i A1 inclusion of the word minimum in the

sentence scores the second mark
ii a photon with less than the threshold B1

frequency f0 cannot cause electron
emission/AW
ii so work function = h (threshold frequency) B1 allow φ = hf0 when the symbols φ and f0
have been defined somewhere in the
question
iii φ = hc/λ
iii = 6.63 x 10-34 x 3.0 x 108/550 x 10-9 C1
iii = 3.6 x 10-19 (J) A1

Examiner's Comments
The definition of work function is known

well. However the fact that work function
refers to an electron energy and threshold
frequency to a photon energy is not evident
from the answers given. The formula in
algebraic form relating the two quantities
was widely known but candidates should
be encouraged to define any symbols used
when stating a formula as an answer to a
question. The relationship written out in
words was expected here.
Many chose the wrong wavelength of the

two given to calculate the work function.
Some realised this when continuing to the
next question and returned to amend their
initial answer. The correct formula was
used by all.
b i n = 3 to n = 2 B1 allow between or and when there is a

downward arrow on Fig. 8.1
ii E32 + E21 = E31 C1
ii hc/λ32 + hc/λ21 = hc/λ31 C1 accept equation using 1/λ or 1/590 + 1/440

= 1/λ31
Mark Scheme
ii 1/590 + 1/440 = 1/252 so λ31 = 250 x 10-9 A1 allow 2 or 3 sf

(m) allow 2/3 for using 550 for 590 nm giving
244 nm
Examiner's Comments
This question discriminated well between

the better candidates; only the strongest
scoring full marks. The two most common
answers were to add or subtract the two
given wavelengths despite the fact that the
diagram referred to energies and
candidates had written earlier that energy
is inversely proportional to wavelength.
Total 10
Mark Scheme
67 a photoelectric effect B1
Examiner's Comments
Almost 100% success for photoelectric

effect.
b i work function = ϕ = hc/λ C1 allow ϕ = hf (f = 6.25 × 1014) and f = c/λ
i φ = 6.6 × 10–34 × 3.0 × 108/4.8 × 10–7 M1
i = 4.1(4) × 10–19 (J) A1 must show answer initially to 2 or 3 SF;

ignore any final rounding down to 1 SF
ii E - ϕ = 1/2 mv2 C1 can use 4.14 or 4 instead of 4.1

(5.2 – 4.1) × 10–19 = 1.1 × 10–19 = 1/2 mv2
ii v = √(2 × 1.1 × 10–19/9.1 × 10–31) C1
ii v = 4.9 × 105 (m s–1) A1 allow 5.1 × 105 (m s–1) using ϕ = 4 ×

10–19 or 4.8 × 105 (m s–1) using ϕ = 4.14 ×
10–19
Examiner's Comments
These calculations were usually well

answered with many weak candidates
scoring full marks. In part (i) separation of
the work function from the rest of Einstein's
equation was often not clear i.e. by stating
that the kinetic energy is zero. The KE term
just disappeared. Also in part (ii) a few
students failed to subtract the work
function from the photon energy.
c i electrons passing through a thin sheet of M1 any suitable / reasonably plausible

graphite situation
i are diffracted / produce diffraction rings on A1 what is observed / interpretation

a fluorescent screen
ii λ = h/mv C1
ii λ = 6.63 × 10–34/5.0 × 105 × 9.1 × 10–31 C1
Mark Scheme
iii λ = 1.5 × 10–9 (m) A1 1.46 to 3 SF
Examiner's Comments
In part (i) about half of the candidates

scored full marks for satisfactory
descriptions of evidence. Some candidates
referred to Young's double slit or similar
experiments being performed on an atomic
scale with electrons. Others knew of a
suitable experiment but were too vague in
presenting their evidence. The majority
scored full marks for the final part. There
were more power of ten and rounding
errors here than anywhere else in the
paper. Overall these were very few.
Total 12
Mark Scheme
68 a i λ is the (de Broglie) wavelength associated B1 allow object/electron for particle

with a particle
i h is (a constant known as) the Planck B1

constant
i mv is the momentum/mass × speed of the B1 accept velocity for speed

particle accept m and v separately but the particle
must
appear with one of the quantities to score
the mark
ii electrons passing through a (thin) sheet of B1 any suitable situation NOT Au or Al, etc.
graphite
ii are diffracted producing rings/pattern (on a A1 what is observed + interpretation 1 mark.

fluorescent screen) Do not award the A mark alone unless a
plausible situation has been suggested.
Young slits type experiments etc score 0/2
iii 1 eV = ½ mv2 C1 allow eV = 8.0 × 10–15 J for 1 mark
iii 2eV/m = v2 C1
iii so v = √(2 × 1.6 × 10–19 × 5.0 × 104/9.1 × B1 allow √(2 × 8.0 × 10–15 /9.1 × 10–31) or
10–31) evidence of
iii so v = 1.3 × 108 (m s–1) A0 correct calculation, e.g. v = 1.325 × 108
iii 2 λ = h/mv = 6.63 × 10–34/ 1.3 × 108 × 9.1 X C1

10–31
iii λ = 5.6 × 10–12 (m) A1 allow 5.5 × 10–12 if 1.325 × 108 is used
iii 3 λ of visible light 5.6 × 10–7 m B1 ecf aiii2; accept 4 to 7 × 10–7 m NOT 10–7
Mark Scheme
iii so power of 10 = 5 or –5 B1 NOT 105 on the answer line
Examiner's Comments
The de Broglie equation was familiar to

most although some did not relate the
terms to particles.
For the evidence for the wave nature of
electrons many knew of the diffraction
experiment using graphite but failed to
state that the electrons passed through a
thin sheet. A minority gave a vague answer
in terms of a double slit system, scoring no
marks. The calculations were done well
with the majority of candidates scoring full
marks. In the last part, although many gave
the correct answer of 5 very few quoted an
acceptable value for the wavelength of
visible light, if at all.
b The photoelectric effect B1 QWC mark allow exp't description: uv light

shone on a zinc plate connected to a gle
max 3 from 6 marking points
Individual photons are absorbed by B1

individual electrons in the metal surface,
i.e. one to one interaction.
Only photons with energies above the work B1

function energy will cause photoelectron
emission/idea of threshold frequency
Hence u-v photons or blue photons will B1

cause photoemission but red photons will
not.
Number of electrons emitted depends on B1 allow wave model does not explain no
light intensity emission
A wave model does not explain B1 however bright the light if energy of photon
instantaneous emission of electrons. below work function
Mark Scheme
A wave model does not explain a threshold B1 Examiner's Comments

frequency/wavelength for emission to
occur Most realised that the question related to
the photoelectric effect. Although many
answers showed a clear recollection of an
experiment, they often described what
happened in great detail rather than
answering the question and relating the
observations to a photon model of
electromagnetic radiation.
Total 16
Mark Scheme
69 a B1 Values must be substituted
E = 1.8 × 10–19 (J) A0 Answer to 3sf is 1.81 × 10–19 (J)
Examiner's Comments
This question was specifically included to

give a hint as to the method to be used in
(b). The question was written in a ‘show’
format to enable candidates to answer (b)
even if they could not recall this area of
synoptic work. However this did mean that
all working, including substitution, had to
be shown and this did result in a small
number losing the mark.
b m = pV = 8.1 × 10–12 × 4.5 × 103 = (3.645 × C1

108)
Thermal energy gained = (mc Δθ) = 3.645 C1 Allow: ecf from (a) and mass of titanium
× 10–8 × 520 × [1700 – 20] (= 0.0318)
1.81 × 10–19 × 6.3 × 1019 × t = 0.0318
t = 2.8 × 10–3 (s) A1

Examiner's Comments
Again this question had three distinct

strands to the physics. The vast majority of
candidates were capable of determining
the correct mass and thermal energy
required to raise the temperature of the
titanium. A small number of errors were
seen in these two strands however: mainly
in transposition of the density formula and
converting temperature changes incorrectly
to kelvin scale. The final stage to
determine the time was less confidently
handled with transposition errors and some
strange manipulation of the equations
which usually resulted in the reciprocal of
the correct answer. Perhaps the very small
time involved in this form of welding
surprised a few candidates.
c Thermal energy is conducted / transferred B1 Not: heat lost to surroundings

to the rest of titanium / metal
Mark Scheme
Photons are reflected / scattered from / not B1

absorbed the titanium surface Examiner's Comments
The answers given for this question were

disappointing. All too often the only factor
quoted was the vague ‘heat lost to the
surroundings’. A significant number of
candidates scored one mark by identifying
the loss of thermal energy to the non-
shaded volume of titanium. Only a tiny
minority realised that some photons would
be reflected from the metal surface. Other
suggestions such as ‘photons are
absorbed in the air’, ‘photons would miss
the target’, ‘not all photons have the same
energy’, ‘the laser needs to heat up as well’
were not given any credit. Marks for this
discriminating question were mostly
awarded only to the more able candidates.
d (Photon) energy is converted into potential B1 Allow: energy is used to overcome the
energy (rather than kinetic energy) forces between atoms / breakdown the
OR crystal structure of titanium (rather than
Energy is used to change solid to liquid / increase kinetic energy)
phase (rather than increase kinetic energy)
OR Examiner's Comments
Energy provides (specific) latent heat of
fusion (rather than increase kinetic energy) This question discriminated across the
entire spectrum of ability, largely as a
result of candidates writing about the lack
of a temperature change rather than
focusing on what actually happened to the
energy supplied at this stage. Many
answers were merely statements lacking in
the vital explanation. It was, however,
encouraging to see that the physics
involved in this unfamiliar situation was
broadly understood by the candidates.
Total 7
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Quantum Physics Exam Questions 69 Questions

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Quantum Physics Exam Questions 69 Questions

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1 Fig. 4.1 shows the path of a tennis ball after bouncing on the ground at A and hitting a vertical wall at B.

What is the change in mass in this fusion reaction?

Your answer [1]

3 Electrons travelling through a thin layer of polycrystalline metal are diffracted.

Which statement is correct about these electrons?

A The electrons travel as photons through the metal.

Your answer [1]

What is the momentum of this electron?

A 3.4 × 10−3 kg m s−1

B 5.4 × 10−17 kg m s−1

C 1.4 × 10−18 kg m s−1

D 5.4 × 10−22 kg m s–1

Your answer [1]

6 Electromagnetic radiation is incident on a metal of work function 2.3 eV.

What is the maximum KE of the photoelectrons now?

Your answer [1]

A Electrons are leptons.

Your answer [1]

The electrons behave like ....

A photons and are deflected by the carbon atoms.

What is the maximum speed of emitted electrons?

A 5.9 × 105 m s–1

What is the correct expression for determining the Planck constant h?

Your answer [1]

What is the new de Broglie wavelength of the electron in terms of λ0?

Your answer [1]

Your answer [1]

Which of the following cannot be the kinetic energy of an emitted photoelectron?

Your answer [1]

15 An electron has a de Broglie wavelength equal to the wavelength of X-rays.

What is the best estimate of the momentum of this electron?

Your answer [1]

17 A proton has kinetic energy 8.00 × 10–17 J.

Your answer [1]

What is the final speed of this electron?

A 5.9 × 106 m s–1

Your answer [1]

Which of these particles has the shortest de Broglie wavelength?

20 The Planck constant h is an important fundamental constant in quantum physics.

Determine the S.I. base units for h.

base units = ......................................................... [2]

A 1, 2 and 3 are correct

22 A sodium lamp is rated at 40 W.

1 All photons travel at the same speed in a vacuum.

Which statement is correct?

A The value of the Planck constant increases.

Which of the following statements is correct?

C The energy of a photon in glass is of the energy of the photon in air.

Explain the shape of the graph in terms of quantum physics.

Describe Einstein's theory to explain these observations.

(iv) Calculate the change in mass in a single fusion reaction.

(i) State one major disadvantage of having fission reactors.

Calculate in J the binding energy per nucleon of the nucleus.

binding energy per nucleon =_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ J [3]

(iii) Fluorine-18 is a positron emitter.

Each particle has mass m and charge q.

(i) Show that the de Broglie wavelength λ is given by the expression .

percentage uncertainty = ..................................................... % [2]

The magnetic field is perpendicular to the plane of Fig. 22.1.

maximum wavelength = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ m [3]

group A: h = (6.3 ± 0.3) × 10−34 J s

(i) Use Einstein’s photoelectric equation to show

(iii) Use Fig. 27 to determine the experimental value for h.

(ii) Calculate the energy of a photon of wavelength 5.0 × 10−7 m.