Natural Sciences Department

Physics Laboratory Manual

Warning
Any breakages in the science laboratory will result in the
replacement paid for by the candidate handling the apparatus

Darlington Naosa
Namushakende Secondary School
P.O Box 910197
Mongu
0977997821
0966997821
0955997821
 ©Darlington Naosa
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system
or transmitted in any form or means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or
otherwise without permission of the copy right owner.
Preface
I have made every effort to make this Physics Laboratory Manual as effective, clear, and
readable as possible; to show the beauty and logic of Physics practical; and to make Physics
enjoyable to learn. ‘Personally, I am always ready to learn, although I do not always like
being taught.’ I believe that ‘to teach is to learn twice’.
Working in the Physics laboratory can be enjoyable part of your Physics experience. This
Physics laboratory manual is for your laboratory work both worthy and enjoyable. The Physics
laboratory tasks as presented in this manual are designed to test your abilities, but use the
skills and values which you will acquire in Physics to solve problems in everyday life. The
manual for Physics for senior secondary school examination has been produced to support
practical work required to be done from grade 10 and grade 12.
This Physics laboratory manual is for use in strengthening teaching competencies, skills and
subject knowledge of teachers of Physics at the senior secondary school level through
school-based assessments (SBA).
Additionally, the integrated Physics laboratory manual is also designed to help teachers
acquire competences and skills in designing differentiated activities for learners with special
education needs to enhance meaningful participation in learning activities.
Acknowledgments
I gratefully acknowledge permission to reproduce some copyright material in this manual.
Every effort has been made to trace copyright holders, but if any copyright infringements
have been made, I would be grateful for information that would enable any omissions or
errors to be corrected in subsequent impressions.
Appreciation of safety in the physics laboratory
Safety is the state of non-exposure to hazards or to danger. It can also be described as the
state of being safe.
Safety rules in the physics laboratory
1. Enter a laboratory only when a teacher says so.
2. Always wear closed shoes. No one wearing open footwear such as slippers and
sandals enters the laboratory. This is in order to reduce the chance of occurrence of
foot injuries.
3. Wear protective clothes.
4. Do not run or play in the laboratory.
5. Do not perform any experiment without permission from the teacher, and always
follow the instructions carefully. Avoid handling any unfamiliar equipment in the
laboratory.
6. Do not drink, eat or taste anything in the laboratory except when allowed to by the
teacher. The food might be contaminated with chemicals which are harmful to
human beings. When you suspect poisoning, note the suspected poisoning agent
and call your teacher immediately.
7. Always add acid to water and not water to acid. Never add water to concentrated
acid as doing so may result into an accident since the little water coming into
contact with the acid may boil immediately splashing the acid into your face.
8. Accidents and breakages must be immediately reported to the teacher.
9. Never point the mouth of a test tube containing a substance being heated towards
another person or yourself.
10. Do not hold very hot objects with your hand. Hold them with a test tube holder, tongs
or a piece of cloth or place them on a heat proof mat.
11. When smelling a substance, do not hold it very near the nose. Hold it about 20cm
from the nose and with the hand wave the vapor towards the nose and sniff carefully.
12. Use specified or small amounts of substances in reactions to avoid waste and
reactions which cannot be controlled.
13. Make sure you know the substances being used unless you are advised to use it as
unknown
14. Any chemical accidentally taken into the mouth or spilt onto any part of the body
should be washed off immediately with water and reported to the teacher. Seek
medical attention.
15. Do not use broken glass-ware. Glassware should frequently be checked. Broken
pieces of glassware should be put a vessel such as a bucket and kept securely for
later disposal.
16. Do not bring flammable substances near a flame. If fires breaks out accidentally,
quickly turn off the gas, electricity or water if necessary. Electrical installations in the
laboratory should be checked for faults on a daily basis. This is in order to avoid the
incidence of such accidents as fire resulting from a short circuit.
17. Wear eye protection when you are told to and keep it on until you are told to take it
off when the practical is finished. Where a foreign matter enters the eye, flush with
plenty of water. Use an eye wash bottle or fountain.
18. When you are told to use a Bunsen burner, make sure hair, cardigans, scarves, ties
etc. are tied back or tacked in to keep them well away from the frame.
19. When you are working with liquids, always stand up and never sit. That way you can
move out of the way easily if something spills.
20. Always put any waste solids in the correct liter bin and not in the sink.
21. Bottles should be never held by the neck.
 22. Be careful that the name or label on the bottle is exactly the same as that of the
chemical you require. Avoiding use of unlabeled chemicals. Any of such should be
treated as potentially dangerous.
23. Before leaving the laboratory, clean the apparatus, work surface and your hands
well. Nothing must be taken from the laboratory.
24. Make sure that no piece of apparatus is placed on the edge of a work bench.
Apparatus that are not in use should be stored in the correct designated places.
Those that are in use should be placed far from the bench edges.
25. Gangways should always be free of obstacles on which a person can stumble.
26. Gas taps should be kept closed at all times other than when gas burners are in use. It
is also important to ensure that there are no leaking points in the gas pipes.
27. Avoiding overcrowding work benches with such things as bags and pieces of
apparatus which are not in use.
28. When one suffers from burns, apply cold water. Call your teacher immediately.
29. When one has cuts and bruises, stop any bleeding by applying direct pressure. Cover
cuts with a clean dressing. Call your teacher immediately. Due to possibility of
infection, disposable gloves should be worn whenever there is a chance of contact
with body fluids such as blood.
30. When one faints, leave the person laying down. Loosen any tight clothing and keep
crowds away. Call your teacher immediately.
31. Any spills on skin, flush with large amounts of water or use safety shower. Call your
teacher immediately.
Reasons why laboratory accidents may occur
 Lack of awareness
 Lack of control
 Lack of knowledge
 Lack of right attitude
Laboratories are delicate places. Carelessness can lead to serious accidents. To avoid such
accidents, simple procedures or instructions should be followed strictly.
SN NAME OF CANDIDATE EXAMINATION NUMBER CENTER NUMBER SEX CLASS

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

NATURAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT
PHYSICS SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT
TASK NUMBER DATE
In this experiment you will determine the relationship between length and the period of a
simple pendulum
You are provided with;
 Pendulum bob
 Thin string
 Stop clock
 Metre rule
Procedure
Trial 1 Trial 2 Trial 3
 Suspend the simple  Suspend the simple  Suspend the simple
pendulum for a length of pendulum for a length of pendulum for a length of
40cm. 20cm. 10cm.

 Pull the bob to one side and  Pull the bob to one side and  Pull the bob to one side and
then release the bob so that then release the bob so that then release the bob so that it
it starts swinging. it starts swinging. starts swinging.
 When the bob reaches the  When the bob reaches the  When the bob reaches the
maximum displacement, start maximum displacement, start maximum displacement, start
the stop watch and start the stop watch and start the stop watch and start
counting. counting. counting.
 Record the time taken for 20  Record the time taken for 20  Record the time taken for 20
complete oscillations. complete oscillations. complete oscillations.
……………………………….[1] ……………………………….[1] ……………………………….[1]
 Find the period of the  Find the period of the  Find the period of the
pendulum using the formula: pendulum using the formula: pendulum using the formula:
Time Time Time
Period = Period = Period =
20 20 20
………………………………… ………………………………… …………………………………
………………………………… ………………………………… …………………………………
……………………………… [2] ……………………………… [2] ……………………………… [2]
What is the relationship between the length and the period of the pendulum?
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
[Total = 10marks]
SN NAME OF CANDIDATE EXAMINATION NUMBER CENTER NUMBER SEX CLASS

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

NATURAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT
PHYSICS SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT
TASK NUMBER DATE
You are provided with
 Simple pendulum
 stop clock
 Metre rule
Formula
Acceleration due to gravity, g = 4π2 (L/T2) m/s2
Where, π = 3.14
L = length of the simple pendulum (m)
T = period of oscillation of the pendulum (s)
In this experiment, you will find the acceleration due to gravity using a simple pendulum
1. Suspend the simple pendulum for a length of 48cm
2. Pull the bob to one side with angular amplitude of less than 10o.
3. Release the bob so that it starts swinging.
4. When the bob reaches the maximum displacement, start the stop watch and start counting
5. Record the time taken for 20 complete oscillations

Length of Time for 20 oscillations Period for one T2 (s2) L/T2

the Trial I Trial II Mean oscillation (m/s2)
pendulum, L (s) (s) (s) Mean
T= (s)
(m) 20
48
[6]
Calculate acceleration due to gravity using the formula g = 4π2 (L/T2) m/s2
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………… [4]
[Total = 10marks]
SN NAME OF CANDIDATE EXAMINATION NUMBER CENTER NUMBER SEX CLASS

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

NATURAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT
PHYSICS SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT
TASK NUMBER DATE
You are provided with
 Object X (stone / ball bearing / pendulum bob)
 Electronic balance
 Thin string
 Measuring cylinder
 Ordinary water placed in the measuring cylinder
In this experiment, you will determine the density of object X.
(a) What is meant by the term density?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………. [2]
(b) Put object X on the electronic balance. Measure and record the mass of object X
as M
M = …………………………………………………………………………………. [1]
(c) State the volume of the water provided in the measuring cylinder. Record it as V1
V1 = …………………………………………………………………........................ [1]
(d) Tie a thin string around object X. Gently, place object X completely in the volume
of water provided. State the new volume of water in the cylinder. Record it as V2
V2 = ………………………………………………………………………………….. [2]
(e) Work out the volume of object X using the formula: V = V2 – V1
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………….. [2]
m
(f) Calculate the density of object X using the formula: D =
V
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………….. [2]
[Total = 10marks]
SN NAME OF CANDIDATE EXAMINATION NUMBER CENTER NUMBER SEX CLASS

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

NATURAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT
PHYSICS SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT
TASK NUMBER DATE
You are provided with
 Ball and ring apparatus
 Source of heat
In this experiment, you will investigate the effect of heating solids
Method

(a) Try to pass the ball through the ring

What happens?
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………… [2]
(b) Heat the ball for five minutes.
(I) Try to pass the ball through the ring again.
What happens?
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………… [2]
(II) What do your observations tell you about the effects of heating solids?
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………… [2]
(c) Cool the ball in cold water.
(I) Try to pass it through the ring again
What happens?
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………… [2]
(II) What do your observations tell you about the effects of cooling solids?
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(d) Suggest why the handle attached to the ball is made up of wood
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
[Total = 10 marks]
SN NAME OF CANDIDATE EXAMINATION NUMBER CENTER NUMBER SEX CLASS

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

NATURAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT
PHYSICS SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT
TASK NUMBER DATE
You are provided with the following:
 Electronic balance
 Beaker
 Liquid X (Water / any liquid)
In this experiment, you will determine the mass of liquid X
Method
(a) Place the empty beaker on the electronic scale and record its mass as M1
M1 = ………………………………………………………………………………………………….. [2]
(b) Pour liquid X in the beaker and record the total mass of the beaker and liquid X as M2
M2 = ………………………………………………………………………………………………….. [2]
(c) Find the mass of liquid X by using the formula, M = M2 – M1
………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………. [2]
(d) What is meant by the term mass?
………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………. [2]
(e) State two precautions you undertook during your experiment
(I) …………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(II) …………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
[Total = 10 marks]
SN NAME OF CANDIDATE EXAMINATION NUMBER CENTER NUMBER SEX CLASS

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

NATURAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT
PHYSICS SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT
TASK NUMBER DATE
You are provided with
 Object X (regularly shaped rectangular wooden block)
 Electronic balance
 30cm rule
Method
(a) Measure the mass (m) of object X
Mass (m) of object X = ………………………………………………………………. [1]
(b) Measure and record in centimeters, the length, the breadth (width) and height of object
X.
(I) Length (L) = ……………………………………………………………………… [1]
(II) Breadth (B) = ……………………………………………………………………. [1]
(III) Height (H) = ……………………………………………………………………… [1]
(c) Calculate the volume (V) of object X using the formula: V = L x B x H
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………………………………………. [2]
m
(d) Calculate the density of object X using the formula: D =
V
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………………………………………. [2]
(e) In your experiment, in which area would you have made a mistake?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(f) State the precaution you took during this experiment
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
[Total = 10marks]
SN NAME OF CANDIDATE EXAMINATION NUMBER CENTER NUMBER SEX CLASS

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

NATURAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT
PHYSICS SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT
TASK NUMBER DATE
You are provided with
 Thermometer (−10oC to 110oC ), Source of heat, 250cm3 beaker, Clamp stand, Tripod
stand, 100cm3 of water, Stop watch
In this experiment, you are required to determine the change in temperature of water during
heating and cooling.
Method
(a) The experiment has been set up for you as shown below

(b) Record the temperature of water before heating

……………………………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(c) Place the source of heat provided at the bottom of the beaker and record the
temperature change every minute for at least six minutes.
Enter the results in the table below
Time / minutes 1 2 3 4 5 6
Temperature / oC
[2]
(d) How did the temperature of the water change a you heated the beaker?
……………………………………………………………………………................................... [1]
(e) At what point did the temperature stop changing?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….. [1]
(f) Suggest the reason why the temperature stopped changing at this point even after
continuing heating the water
……………………………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(g) State the method of heat transfer from water to the thermometer
……………………………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(h) Remove the source of heat from the beaker and record the temperature change every
minute for at least six minutes. Enter the results in the table below
Time / minutes 1 2 3 4 5 6
Temperature / C o

[2]
(i) State one precaution you took in this experiment
…………………………………………………………………………………………………. [1]
[Total = 10 marks]
SN NAME OF CANDIDATE EXAMINATION NUMBER CENTER NUMBER SEX CLASS

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

NATURAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT
PHYSICS SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT
TASK NUMBER DATE
You are provided with
 Voltmeter (of full scale deflection of 5V)
 Ammeter
 Connecting wires with leads
 Variable resistor
 4 cells each with a voltage of 1.5V
 Circuit board (able to hold 4 cells)
 Switch
 Graph paper
In this experiment, you will investigate the relationship between voltage and current in a
conductor
Method
1. Use the materials provided to connect the circuit as illustrated in the diagram below

2. With the switch closed and electromotive force equal to 1.5V, record the readings you
observe from the ammeter and voltmeter.
3. Repeat stage 2 by adding cells one at a time until there are four cells in the circuit.
(a) Record the readings in the table below
Number Voltage Current
of cells
1
2
3
4
[4]
(b) Using the data collected,
(I) Plot the graph of voltage against current. [2]
(II) Describe the shape of the graph.
…………………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(III) Use your graph to calculate the resistance of the conductor using the formula:
V
R=
I
…………………………………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………… [2]
(IV) State one precaution you undertook during your experiment
……………………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
[Total = 10marks]
SN NAME OF CANDIDATE EXAMINATION NUMBER CENTER NUMBER SEX CLASS

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

NATURAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT
PHYSICS SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT
TASK NUMBER DATE
You are provided with
 Glass smoke box
 Candle
 Piece of cloth
 Matches
In this experiment, you will demonstrate heat transfer by convection in air
Method
1. Light the candle
2. Place the candle below one chimney inside the smoke box
3. Light a piece of cloth and allow it to smoulder
4. Hold the smouldering cloth over the other chimney as shown the diagram below

(a) In which direction does the smoke move?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………………………………………. [2]
(b) Why did the smoke move in this direction?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………………………………………. [2]
(c) What does the movement of smoke suggest?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………………………………………. [2]
(d) State two precautions you took in this experiment
(I) ………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………… [2]
(II) ………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………… [2]
[Total = 10 marks]
SN NAME OF CANDIDATE EXAMINATION NUMBER CENTER NUMBER SEX CLASS

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

NATURAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT
PHYSICS SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT
TASK NUMBER DATE
You are provided with
 1.5V cell
 Paper clips
 Large nail
 Cut pieces of copper wire
 Thin insulated copper wire stripped at the ends
 Switch
Method
(a) Wrap the insulated copper wire five times around the nail as tightly as you can. See the
diagram below.

(I) Try to pick some paper clips using a nail with the switch open as shown in the
diagram above. Record your observations.
……………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(II) Now close the switch and try to pick some paper clips. Record your observations.
……………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(III) With the switch closed, try to pick pieces of copper wire. Record your
observations.
……………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(IV) Compare and comment on your results in (II) and (III)
………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………… [2]
(b) Increase the number of turns on the nail to twelve and try to pick some paper clips. What
observation have you made?
………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(c) What effect of electric current was being investigated in the experiment?
……………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(d) In which three ways can the effect you have mentioned in (c) above be increased?
(I) ……………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(II) ……………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(III) ……………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
[Total = 10marks]
SN NAME OF CANDIDATE EXAMINATION NUMBER CENTER NUMBER SEX CLASS

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

NATURAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT
PHYSICS SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT
TASK NUMBER DATE
You are provided with
 Connecting wires
 Circuit board
 Voltmeter (full scale deflection of 5V)
 Ammeter
 Switch
 Resistors
 3 cells each with a voltage of 1.5V
In this experiment, you will find the relationship between the electromotive force supply (V)
and the sum of potential difference connected across resistors
Method
1. Using the materials above, investigate the relationship between R and V across the
given resistors

2. You are given 3 cells each with a voltage of 1.5V. Calculate the total electromotive
force in the circuit
………………………………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………. [2]
3. Find the suitable position where you can connect the ammeter and voltmeter
4. Close the switch and record the final readings on both the ammeter and the voltmeter
for each resistor R1, R2 and R3. Record the current and voltage in the table below
Resistor Voltage Current
R1 V1 = I1 =
R2 V2 = I2 =
R3 V3 = I3 =
[3]
5. Find the sum of V1, V2 and V3
………………………………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………. [2]
6. Compare the sum of V1, V2 and V3 to the electromotive force supply
………………………………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………. [1]
7. Why is there a difference in the two values obtained?
………………………………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………. [2]
[Total = 10marks]
SN NAME OF CANDIDATE EXAMINATION NUMBER CENTER NUMBER SEX CLASS

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

NATURAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT
PHYSICS SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT
TASK NUMBER DATE
You are provided with
 6 metallic ball bearings, approximate diameter 6mm to 10mm
 100cm3 measuring cylinder
 20cm3 of ordinary water placed in the measuring cylinder
In this experiment, you are required to determine the density of ball bearings. You are provided
with six ball bearings and a measuring cylinder containing water and each ball bearing has a
mass of 10.0g
(a) State the volume provided in the measuring cylinder
V1 = ……………………………………………………………………………………………….. [1]
(b) Place the six ball bearings completely in the volume of water provided. State the new
volume of water
V2 = ……………………………………………………………………………………………….. [1]
(c) Work out the volume of the six ball bearings. Show your working
………………………………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………….. [2]
(d) Calculate the density of:
(I) Six ball bearings (show your working)
………………………………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………….. [2]
(II) One ball bearing (show your working)
………………………………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………….. [2]
(e) Compare the densities of the six ball bearings and one ball bearing.
Explain your observation
………………………………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………….. [2]
[Total = 10marks]
SN NAME OF CANDIDATE EXAMINATION NUMBER CENTER NUMBER SEX CLASS

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

NATURAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT
PHYSICS SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT
TASK NUMBER DATE
You are provided with
 2 pieces of strings about 40cm each
 Metre rule (100cm rule)
 20g mass
 Clamp stand (or any means of supporting it)
In this experiment you are required to determine the weight of a metre rule by using
moments
Arrange the experiment as shown in the diagram below

(I) Place the 20g mass at 28cm mark on the metre rule which is pivoted or held by a
string
(II) Adjust the distance X until the meter rule balances horizontally
(III) Measure and record the distance X between 20g mass and the pivot where the rule
balances
…………………………………………………………………………………………cm [2]
(IV) State the distance Y from the center of the metre rule to the pivot when the metre
rule is balanced
…………………………………………………………………………………………cm [2]
(V) Calculate the moment of a 20g mass about the pivot using the equation:
20g 10x
=
1000 100
………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………….. [2]
(VI) Find the weight of the rule by verifying the principle of moments
………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………….. [2]
(VII) State two applications of moments of force
1. …………………………………………………………………………………………. [1]
2. …………………………………………………………………………………………. [1]
[Total = 10marks]
SN NAME OF CANDIDATE EXAMINATION NUMBER CENTER NUMBER SEX CLASS

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

NATURAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT
PHYSICS SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT
TASK NUMBER DATE
You are provided with
 Metre rule
 Pivot (triangular piece of wood)
 Larger solid stone
 Small solid stone
 A string
Method
(a) Balance the metre rule on the 50cm mark
(b) Place the larger stone at position A and tie it. Balance this stone with a smaller stone on
the other side of the pivot by adjusting the distance d2

(c) Measure the approximate distances d1 and d2 and record them

d1 = …………………………………………………………………………………………….. [2]
d2 = …………………………………………………………………………………………….. [2]
(d) What type of simple machine is demonstrated in the experiment?
…………………………………………………………………………………………….. [2]
(e) Give and explain an example of this type of simple machine in real life situation
……………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………………………….. [2]
(f) State the principle demonstrated in the experiment
……………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………………………….. [2]
[Total = 10marks]
SN NAME OF CANDIDATE EXAMINATION NUMBER CENTER NUMBER SEX CLASS

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

NATURAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT
PHYSICS SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT
TASK NUMBER DATE
You are provided with
 A metal tin with a lid
 Wax
 Source of heat
 Matches
 Water
 Tripod stand
Method
(a) Place some pieces of wax in the tin and place it on a source of heat as shown in figure 2.

(I) Record your observations after a few minutes

………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(II) State the process that has taken place and state its importance in life
Process: ……………………………………………………………………………………
Importance in life:……………………………………………………………………….. [1]
(b) Leave the tin in figure 2 to cool for 5 minutes
(I) What happens to the wax?
……………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(II) What process has taken place?
…………………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(c) Repeat the experiment but this time use water in place of wax and cover with a lid as
shown in figure 1. Heat the water for a few minutes.
Remove the lid.
(I) What can you observe on the surface of the lid? Explain how this happened
……………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………… [2]
(II) Of what use is this process in life?
……………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(d) State the aim of each experiment as demonstrated in figure 1 and 2 above
Figure 1: Aim:………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
Figure 2: Aim: ……………………………………………………………………………….. [1]
[Total = 10marks]
SN NAME OF CANDIDATE EXAMINATION NUMBER CENTER NUMBER SEX CLASS

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

NATURAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT
PHYSICS SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT
TASK NUMBER DATE
You are provided with
 50cm3 beaker
 a coin
 water
 30cm rule
 Maker (white board marker)
In this experiment, you are required to determine the refractive index of water
Method
(a) Place a coin centrally inside the beaker as shown in the diagram above
(b) Pour some water into the beaker to approximately half full
(c) Mark using a white board marker, the level of water

(d) Using a ruler, measure and record this depth of water as D1

D1 = ………………………………………………………………………………………….. cm [1]
(e) View the coin from the top of the beaker and mark besides the beaker the apparent
position of the coin
(f) Using a ruler, measure the apparent depth and record it as d1
d1 = ………………………………………………………………………………………….. cm [1]
D1
(g) Calculate the ratio d
1
………………………………………………………………………………………………….…
………………………………………………………………………………………………….…
……………………………………………………………………………………………….…… [2]
(h) Add more water until the beaker is almost full
(i) Repeat steps (c) to (g) to obtain values of D2 and d2 then record them
D2 = ………………………………………………………………………………………….…. [1]
d2 = ……………………………………………………………………………………..………. [1]
D
Ratio d 2 = ……………………………………………………………………………………. [1]
2
(j) Determine the average of the two ratios
Average ratio = ……………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(k) Mention one possible source of error in this experiment
……………………………………………………………………………………………….…. [1]
[Total = 10marks]
SN NAME OF CANDIDATE EXAMINATION NUMBER CENTER NUMBER SEX CLASS

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

NATURAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT
PHYSICS SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT
TASK NUMBER DATE
You are provided with
 A graph paper
 30cm rule
Useful information
 𝑉 = Distance of image from the lens
 𝑢 = Distance of object from the lens
 𝐼 = Size of the image
 𝑂 = Size of the object
 𝑓 = focal length
 𝑚 = Magnification
In this experiment, you will determine the position, magnification, size and characteristics of
an image formed by the convex lens by way of graphing.
Method
An object is placed 3cm from the convex lens of focal length 2cm. The size of an object is
2cm.
(a) On a clean graph paper, draw a straight vertical line in the middle of the graph paper to
represent the convex lens [2]
(b) Draw a straight horizontal line representing the principal axis of focal point 2cm [2]
(c) Draw an object which is 2cm tall at 3cm away from the lens [2]
(d) Complete the diagram to show where the image will be formed [2]
(e) Using the information from the diagram above
1 1 1
(I) find the position of the image using the lens formula: =𝑢 +𝑣
𝑓
………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………… [4]
𝑉
(II) find the magnification of the image using the formula: 𝑚 =
𝑢
………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………… [3]
𝐼
(III) find the size of the image using the formula: 𝑚 =
𝑂
………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………… [3]
(f) Write down two characteristics of the image formed
(I) ……………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(II) ……………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(III) ……………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
[Total = 20marks]
SN NAME OF CANDIDATE EXAMINATION NUMBER CENTER NUMBER SEX CLASS

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

NATURAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT
PHYSICS SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT
TASK NUMBER DATE
You are provided with
 Convex lens / magnifying glass
 Piece of carbon paper
 Ruler
 Pencil
In this experiment, you will investigate what happens when light passes through a convex
lens or magnifying glass
Method
1. Use the lens to focus sunlight on a carbon paper
(a) Measure the distance between the lens and the spot formed on the piece of
paper when light has sharpest intensity to be able to produce smoke or burn
the paper
Distance between lens and spot = ………………………………………………… [1]
(b) Observe and record what happens to the piece of paper
……………………………………………………………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………. [1]
(c) Suggest a reason to explain why the piece of paper burned
……………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………. [1]
(d) What do you think the brightest spot seen on the piece of paper represents?
……………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………. [1]
(e) Suggest the name for the distance between the brightest spot and lens
……………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………. [1]
(f) What happens to the sun rays as they passed through the convex lens?
……………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………. [1]
(g) Draw a diagram to show the light rays and how the convex lens is used to burn
a piece of paper in the experiment

[4]
[Total = 10marks]
SN NAME OF CANDIDATE EXAMINATION NUMBER CENTER NUMBER SEX CLASS

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

NATURAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT
PHYSICS SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT
TASK NUMBER DATE
You are provided with
 Triangular prism
 Long narrow cardboard box
 Black / blue A4 paper
 White A4 paper
 Small sharp knife
 Coloured pencils
 Torch light
In this experiment, you will investigate the formation of a spectrum using a prism
Method
1. Prepare the cardboard box making sure that the box is enclosed on all sides except
for the top. Cover the inside walls of the box with white paper
2. On one side of the box, make a hole about 5mm close to the bottom of the box
3. Cover the base of the box with either a black or blue paper
4. Darken the room as much as possible. Cover up or switch off all lights sources, except
for the one you will use for investigation
5. Place the prism on top of the dark paper on the base of the box. The prism must be in
line with the hole that you cut in the end of the box
6. Shine the torch through the hole in the box. Turn the prism slightly until you see the
spectrum on the white paper
7. Learners to identify the colours. Using coloured pencils that match the spectrum, draw
the triangular prism and trace the light patterns

[2]
(a) What colours have you seen?
…………………………………………………………………………………… [2]
(b) Which colours are reflected the most?
…………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(c) Which colours are reflected the least?
…………………………………………………………………………………… [2]
(d) What is light dispersion?
…………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(e) What name is given to the band of colours produced when white light is
dispersed?
…………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(f) Name the two processes that occur during the splitting of light
(I) …………………………………………………………………………. [1]
(II) …………………………………………………………………………. [1]
[Total = 10marks]
SN NAME OF CANDIDATE EXAMINATION NUMBER CENTER NUMBER SEX CLASS

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

NATURAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT
PHYSICS SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT
TASK NUMBER DATE
You are provided with
 Pencil, Ruler, Plain paper, Glass block, Drawing pins, Optical board / cardboard,
Protractor, Light source
In this experiment, you will investigate the refraction of light through a glass bloc
Method
1. Place a sheet of plain white paper on the optical board / cardboard. On this white
sheet of paper, place a glass block as shown below

[6]
2. Use a ruler to find the middle of the longer sides you have drawn, mark all these
middle points. Draw a straight line XY, at an angle of 45o to the horizontal line, as
shown in the diagram above
3. Mark the points of intersection between this line (XY) and line AB. Call this point Y.
4. Place two drawing pins, P1 and P2 along the line XY
5. Replace the glass block into the outline that you have drawn (A, B, C, D)
6. Look into the lower long side of the glass (C,D) so that the image of P1 and P2 appear
to be in the same line
7. Place P3 and P4 below C, D so that the pins are lined up with the images of P1 and P2
8. Remove the glass bloc and all the pins. Draw a line through the position of pin P3 and
P4 until it intersects / touches the line C, D that represents the lower / bottom surface
of the glass block.
9. Mark the points of intersection between this line and line C, D. call this point Q.
10. Join the Y and Q with a straight line
11. Repeat for different angles of incidence
(a) Compare the angle of incidence to the angle of refraction
…………………………………………………………………………………....
……………………………………………………………………………………. [2]
(b) Describe the movement of light from air to glass
…………………………………………………………………………………....
……………………………………………………………………………………. [2]
[Total = 10marks]
SN NAME OF CANDIDATE EXAMINATION NUMBER CENTER NUMBER SEX CLASS

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

NATURAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT
PHYSICS SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT
TASK NUMBER DATE
You are provided with
 Metre rule, Spring, Clamp stand, Different masses ranging from 50g to 100g
In this experiment, you are required to investigate Hook’s law using a spring. The apparatus
has been set for you as shown in the diagram

(a) Measure and record the length of the spring as indicated by the pointer
(b) Measure the initial length of the spring Lo
Lo:……………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(c) Hang a 50g mass on the spring and record the length of the spring as L1
Length of the spring L1: ………………………………………………………….. [1]
(d) Subtract the length of the spring L1 from Lo to get the extension of the spring Ex
Ex: ……………………………………………………………………………………. [1]
(e) Repeat the steps in (c) using the different masses ranging from 50g to 100g in order to
obtain five more readings and enter the results in the table including units of measure
Mass / …. Lo / …. L1 / …. Ex / …..

[4]
(f) Plot the graph of mass against extension
(g) Extrapolate the graph so that it meets the Y – axis. Record the value of Y – intercept.
Compare this value with the length of the spring
Value of Y – intercept: ………………………………………………………………………. [1]
Comparison of Y – intercept with length of the spring Lo
…………………………………………………………………………………………………. [1]
(h) Determine the gradient of the slope
Gradient: ……………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
[Total = 10marks]
SN NAME OF CANDIDATE EXAMINATION NUMBER CENTER NUMBER SEX CLASS

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

NATURAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT
PHYSICS SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT
TASK NUMBER DATE
You are provided with
 Sensitive ammeter
 Pieces of nichrome wire of length 5cm, 10cm, 15cm, 20cm and 25cm
 Two cells placed in a holder
 Three connecting wires
In this experiment, you will investigate the effect of length of conductor on the
resistance of the conductor. You are provided with 5 different lengths of nichrome wire
measuring 5cm, 10cm, 15cm, 20cm and 25cm. the following incomplete circuit has
been set up for you

(a) Connect the 5cm long nichrome wire between terminals A and B. Record the
current reading on the ammeter in the table below
Repeat the procedure using 10cm, 15cm, 20cm and 25cm long pieces of
nichrome wire. Record each current reading against the length of the nichrome
wire
Length of wire / cm 5 10 15 20 25
Current / A
[5]
(b) What happens to the resistance of the nichrome wire as length increases? Justify
your answer
……………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(c) Plot a graph of current against length of conductor (use a graph paper) [3]
(d) With the aid of the plotted graph, work out the resistance of nichrome wire
of length 18cm [1]
[Total = 10marks]
SN NAME OF CANDIDATE EXAMINATION NUMBER CENTER NUMBER SEX CLASS

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

NATURAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT
PHYSICS SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT
TASK NUMBER DATE
You are provided with
 30cm metal rod or wire, 30cm wooden stick, Wax, Candle, Matches
In this experiment, you will verify heat transfer in solids by conduction
Method
1. Mark the positions A, B, C and D on both the metal rod and wooden stick as shown
below
2. Melt the wax and note the marked positions
3. Heat one end of the metal rod for 2 – 4 minutes

(a) Which wax A, B, C or D melts first? Explain your answer

…………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(b) By what process does the heat reach the wax on the metal rod?
…………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(c) Heat one end of the wooden stick for 2 – 4 minutes

Explain what happens to the wax?

…………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(d) How would you make use of the principle of heat transfer demonstrated by the metal rod
and wooden stick in daily life?
………………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(e) State the aim of the experiment where a wooden stick is used
……………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(f) Why does a white car feel cooler inside than a black car when they are parked in the sun
for some time?
…………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(g) Between the metal rod and wooden stick, which material is a good or bad conductor of
heat?
(I) Good conductor:…………………………………………………………………… [1]
(II) Bad conductor:……………………………………………………………………... [1]
(h) Why does the handle of pot become hot even if is not sitting on the stove
……………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(i) Why do metal spoons have plastic or wooden handles?
……………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
[Total = 10marks]
SN NAME OF CANDIDATE EXAMINATION NUMBER CENTER NUMBER SEX CLASS

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

NATURAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT
PHYSICS SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT
TASK NUMBER DATE
You are provided with
 1 plain paper
 4 optical pins
 1 protractor
 1 plane mirror of dimensions 10cm x 4cm
 1 holder for the mirror
 30cm rule
In this experiment, you are expected to verify the laws of reflection by using a palne mirror
and optical pins
Copy the diagram below on a plain paper and carry out the following instructions:

(a) Using a protractor, draw a line on the plain paper making an angle of 30o from line ON
and label the angle i [1]
(b) Place two pins on the line drawn in (a) to stand vertically uprihgt and label them P and Q
(c) Place the mirror on the line AB
(d) Look into the mirror on the other side of the normal, ON and place two other pins to stand
vertically upright such that they are in line with images of P and Q and label them R and
S [2]
(e) Draw a line through R and S to produce ORS [2]
(f) Measure the angle NOR and label r
Angle NOR = ……………………………………………………………………………... [1]
(g) Compare i and r
……………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………… [2]
(h) State the laws of reflection at plane surfaces
……………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………… [2]
[Total = 10marks]
SN NAME OF CANDIDATE EXAMINATION NUMBER CENTER NUMBER SEX CLASS

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

NATURAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT
PHYSICS SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT
TASK NUMBER DATE
You are provided with
 A piece of card board about 30cm x 30cm
 Plain paper
 Four drawing pins
 Four optical pins
 Protractor
 Reflecting surface which can either be a flat piece of metal or mirror
 Plasticine or toy clay
In this experiment, you will observe the angles and reflected light
1. Place the piece of cardboard on a flat table or desk
2. On top of your card board, place the piece of paper as shown in the diagram below.
Draw a pencil about 2cm from the top of the edge of the paper and place the mirror
along part of the line using the Plasticine to keep it upright
3. Push pins I and II into the paper and card board making sure that they are standing
up straight
4. Now move your eyes to the left side of the mirror so that the images of the pins I and II
in the mirror appear to be in a straight line, one hiding behind the other
5. Put two more pins III and IV along your line of vision as shown below

[4]
6. Remove the pins and draw lines using a pencil joining the pin points I, II, III and IV to
the mirror. The holes where the pins were will guide you and the line where the mirror
was positioned can be traced easily
7. Use now a protractor to draw a line perpendicular to another line. Let the line be as
shown in the diagram below. We will call the angle between this line (the normal) and
the line joining pins I and II as angle of incidence (i). The angle formed between the
normal and the line joining pins III and IV; let’s call it angle of reflection (r)
8. Use your protractor to measure angles of incidence (i) and angle of reflection (r). Both
should be less than 90o
9. Repeat the process several more times. You should notice that as you change the
positions of pins I and II, positions of pins III and IV will also change
10. What relationship have you observed between angles i and r?
………………………………………………………………………………………………...
…………………………………………………………………………………………… [2]
11. What would be your two views regarding what happens when a light ray is reflected
by smooth surface?
………………………………………………………………………………………………...
…………………………………………………………………………………………… [2]
12. From your two views or statements, do you realize that both the first and second laws
of reflection are derived?
………………………………………………………………………………………………...
…………………………………………………………………………………………… [2]
[Total = 10marks]
SN NAME OF CANDIDATE EXAMINATION NUMBER CENTER NUMBER SEX CLASS

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

NATURAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT
PHYSICS SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT
TASK NUMBER DATE
You are provided with
 Beaker
 Measuring cylinder
 Stop watch
 Candle
 Ice
 Water
 Tripod stand
 Source of heat
In this experiment, you will observe the effect of heat on ice and candle wax
Method
(a) Put the ice into a beaker and place the beaker on the tripod stand and heat for 5
minutes. Write your observations
…………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………… [2]
(b) Put the candle wax in the candle holder so that it stands upright on the table. Light the
candle for 5 minutes. Write your observations.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………… [2]
(c) Pour 20cm3 of water in a beaker and place the beaker on a tripod stand and heat for 10
minutes or more until you see change. Write your observations
…………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………… [2]
(d) According to your observations, suggest the name of the process of the change of state
that took place in (a), (b) and (c)
(I) Name of process in (a)…………………………………………………………. [1]
(II) Name of process in (b) ………………………………………………………… [1]
(III) Name of process in (c) ………………………………………………………… [1]
(e) What happens to the arrangement of the particles in the process you observed in (a)
and (c)?
………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
[Total = 10 marks]
SN NAME OF CANDIDATE EXAMINATION NUMBER CENTER NUMBER SEX CLASS

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

NATURAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT
PHYSICS SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT
TASK NUMBER DATE
You are provided with
 Vernier Calipers
 Magnifying glass
 Spherical body / rectangular block of known mass / cylindrical objects e.g. wire
In this experiment, you will measure the diameter of a small spherical/cylindrical body using
Vernier calipers.
1. Keep the jaws of Vernier Calipers closed. Observe the zero mark of the main scale. It must
perfectly coincide with that of the vernier scale. If this is not so, account for the zero error for
all observations to be made while using the instrument.
2. Gently loosen the screw to release the movable jaw. Slide it enough to hold the
sphere/cylindrical body gently (without any undue pressure) in between the lower jaws. The
jaws should be perfectly perpendicular to the diameter of the body.
3. Now, gently tighten the screw so as to clamp the instrument in this position to the body.
4. Carefully note the position of the zero mark of the vernier scale against the main scale.
Usually it will not perfectly coincide with any of the small divisions on the main scale. Record
the value on the main scale that appears just before the zero of the vernier scale in
centimeters, cm.
5. Look for the division on the vernier scale that coincides with a division of main scale. Use a
magnifying glass, if available and note the number of division on the Vernier scale that
coincides with the one on the main scale. Position your eye directly over the division mark so
as to avoid any parallax error. Record the value of the line on the vernier scale that
coincides with a line on the main scale and multiply it by 0.01cm in order to convert it into
cm. Add main scale reading and vernier scale reading.
6. Repeat steps 3 – 5 to obtain the diameter of the body at different positions on its curved
surface. Take three sets of reading in each case
7. Record the observations in the table below with proper units. Apply the zero error correction,
if need be.
Results
S/N Main scale Number of Vernier scale Measured diameter
reading, M coinciding vernier reading, D=M+V
(cm) divisions V = N x 0.01 (cm) (cm)
N
1.
2.
3.
4.
[8]
Find the mean diameter of the body
………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………… [2]
[Total = 10marks]
Precautions:
1. If the Vernier scale is not sliding smoothly over the main scale, apply machine oil/grease.
2. Screw the Vernier tightly without exerting undue pressure to avoid any damage to the
threads of the screw.
 3. Keep the eye directly over the division mark to avoid any error due to parallax.
Note down each observation with correct significant figures and units.
Sources of error
1. Any measurement made using Vernier Calipers is likely to be incorrect if- the zero error in the
instrument placed is not accounted for; and
2. The Vernier Calipers is not in a proper position with respect to the body, avoiding gaps or
undue pressure or both.
SN NAME OF CANDIDATE EXAMINATION NUMBER CENTER NUMBER SEX CLASS

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

NATURAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT
PHYSICS SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT
TASK NUMBER DATE
You are provided with
 Wire
 Metallic sheet
 Irregular lamina
 Millimeter graph paper
 Pencil and screw gauge
In this experiment, you will measure diameter of a given wire using screw gauge
1. Take the screw gauge and make sure that the ratchet on the head of the screw
functions properly.
2. Insert the given wire between the screw and the stud of the screw gauge. Move
the screw forward by rotating the ratchet till the wire is gently gripped between the
screw and the stud. Stop rotating the ratchet the moment you hear a click sound.
3. Find the value on the sleeve scale which appears just before the edges of the
thimble. The value above the horizontal line gives the whole numbers.
The value below the horizontal line but in front of the whole number obtained is a
mark of 0.5mm and is added to the whole number.
4. Find the value on the thimble scale which is in line with the horizontal line of the
sleeve scale and multiply it by 0.01mm.
If there isn’t any mark in line, but the horizontal line or point is in between the
mark, the highest mark is taken and then multiplied by 0.01mm.
5. Add the sleeve scale reading and thimble scale reading.
6. Repeat steps 3 – 5 to obtain the diameter of the body at different positions on its
curved surface. Take three sets of reading in each case. The wire may not be truly
cylindrical. Therefore, it is necessary to measure the diameter at several different
places and obtain the average value of diameter.
7. Record the observations in the table below with proper units. Apply the zero error
correction, if need be.
Result
S/N Sleeve scale Number of Thimble scale Measured diameter
reading, S coinciding reading, D=S+T
(mm) divisions T = N x 0.01 (mm) (mm)
N
1.
2.
3.
4.
[8]
Find the mean diameter of the given wire
………………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………… [2]
[Total = 10marks]
Precautions
1. Ratchet arrangement in screw gauge must be utilized to avoid undue pressure on the wire
as this may change the diameter.
2. Move the screw in one direction else the screw may develop “play”.
3. Screw should move freely without friction.
4. Reading should be taken at least at four different points along the length of the wire.
5. View all the reading keeping the eye perpendicular to the scale to avoid error due to
parallax
Sources of error
1. The wire may not be of uniform cross-section.
2. Error due to backlash though can be minimized but cannot be completely eliminated
Backlash error
1. In a good instrument the thread on the screw and that on the nut, should tightly fit with each
other. However, with repeated use, the threads of both the screw and the nut may get worn
out. As a result a gap develops between these two threads, which is called “play”. The play
in the threads may introduce an error in measurement in devices like screw gauge. This error
is called backlash error. In instruments having backlash error, the screw slips a small linear
distance without rotation. To prevent this, it is advised that the screw should be moved in
only one direction while taking measurements.
2. The divisions on the sleeve scale and the thimble scale may not be evenly spaced
Zero error
1. When the end of the screw and the surface of the stud are in contact with each other, the
sleeve scale and the thimble scale reading should be zero. In case this is not so, the screw
gauge is said to have an error called zero error.
2. When the reading on the thimble scale across the linear scale is more than zero (or positive),
the instrument has Positive zero error
3. When the reading of the thimble scale across the sleeve scale is less than zero (or negative),
the instrument is said to have negative zero error
SN NAME OF CANDIDATE EXAMINATION NUMBER CENTER NUMBER SEX CLASS

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

NATURAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT
PHYSICS SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT
TASK NUMBER DATE
You are provided with
 Screen
 Lens
 Lens holder
 Illuminated object (torch)
 Metre rule
In this experiment, you will determine the focal length of a lens

(I) Place the lens so that its centre is 20.0cm from the illuminated object
(II) Measure and record the distance y in cm of the centre of the lens from the illuminated
object, see figure 1
Distance y = ………………………………………………………………………….. cm [1]
(III) Place the screen close to the lens. Move the screen away from the lens until a focused
image of the object is seen on the screen
(IV) Measure and record the distance x in cm of the center of the lens from the screen, see
figure 1
Distance x = ……………………………………………………………………………cm [1]
(V) Without moving the lens or the screen, measure and record the height h of the
illuminated object and the height d of the image, see figures 2 and 3
Height of h = …………………………………………………………………………..cm [1]
Height of d = …………………………………………………………………………..cm [1]
𝑑
(VI) Calculate the magnification m, using the equation m =
ℎ
……………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(VII) For new values of y in the range 20cm to 45cm, repeat the steps from (I) to (VI) to obtain
a total of five sets of values of y, x, d and h.
……………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………… [5]
(VIII) Calculate and record the values of m.
……………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………… [4]
(IX) Plot the graph of m (y-axis) against x/cm (x-axis) [on the graph paper] [3]
(X) Determine the gradient G of the graph. Show. Clearly how you obtained the necessary
information from your graph. [on the graph paper] [1]
𝑘
(XI) Calculate the focal length f of the lens, using the equation f = , where k = 1cm
𝐺
……………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
(XII) State one precaution you took in order to obtain reliable measurements
……………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………… [1]
SN NAME OF CANDIDATE EXAMINATION NUMBER CENTER NUMBER SEX CLASS

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

NATURAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT
PHYSICS SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT
TASK NUMBER DATE
You are provided with
 Flat bottomed flask
 Rubber bung fitted with narrow glass tube
 Tripod stand
 Coloured water
 Source of heat
 Glass tube
In this experiment, you will investigate the expansion of liquids
Method
1. Fill the flat bottomed flask with coloured water.
2. Fit the rubber bung tightly into the mouth of the flask
3. Mark the level of coloured water in the narrow glass tube

4. Heat the bottom of the flask carefully for 3 minutes

(a) What was your observation in the narrow glass tube as the water was being
heated?
……………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………….. [2]
(b) What do your observations tell you about the effects of heating liquids?
……………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………….. [2]
5. Remove the source of heat and allow the flask to cool down and carefully observe
(a) What was your observation as the water cooled?
……………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………….. [2]
(b) What do your observations tell you about the effects of cooling liquids?
……………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………….. [2]
(c) Was there a change in the water level during:
(I) Heating?
…………………………………………………………………………….. [1]
(II) Cooling?
…………………………………………………………………………….. [1]
[Total = 10marks]
SN NAME OF CANDIDATE EXAMINATION NUMBER CENTER NUMBER SEX CLASS

MINISTRY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

NATURAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT
PHYSICS SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT
TASK NUMBER DATE
You are provided wit
 Candle
 Matches
 Two balloons
 String
 Drinking straw
 Wall pin
 Stick (broom stick, size 40cm – 60cm)
Method
1. Set up the experiment as shown below
2. Inflate the balloons and tie them on a straw
3. Light a candle and place it under one of the balloons

(a) (I) Observe and record what you see

………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………. [2]
(II) Explain your observations
………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………. [2]
(b) If you place an inflated balloon in a cold fridge;
(I) What would you expect to happen?
………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………. [2]
(II) Explain
………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………. [2]
(c) State the aim of the experiment above
………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………. [2]
[Total = 10 Marks]
 Darlington Naosa

About the author

Darlington Naosa grew up in Kafue District, Lusaka Province. He did his primary education at
Nakatete Primary School in Kafue from 1989 to 1995. He went to Naboye Secondary School for his
junior secondary education in Kafue from 1996 to 1997. He continued his senior secondary
education at Naboye Secondary School from 1998 to 2000. He went to Nkrumah Teachers College
from 2002 to 2003 where he obtained the Secondary Teachers Diploma and graduated as a best
student in Science. He went to the University of Zambia from 2012 to 2016 where he obtained the
Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry Education. He is currently doing his Master of Science in Chemistry
with The Copperbelt University.

He has been Head of Department for Natural Sciences at Namushakende Secondary School from
2019. He has taught chemistry, physics and biology at Namushakende Secondary School since
2019. He has been teaching chemistry and physics at Kambule Technical Secondary School from
2009 to 2019. He has been lecturing chemistry at Zambian College of Open Learning (ZAMCOL) in
Mongu from 2015 and he has also been a chemistry tutor at the University of Barotseland from 2018.
He has been a marker for integrated science with the Examinations Council of Zambia (ECZ) from
2009. He previously taught environmental science at Kanyonyo Basic School from 2007 to 2009. He
also taught chemistry and biology at Naboye Secondary School from 2004 to 2007.