Physics 9702/31 — October/November 2012

Cambridge AS Level · Advanced Practical Skills · worked solutions for every part, with the mark scheme

questions

marks

120

minutes

Topics Manipulation, Measurement and Observation · Presentation of Data and Observations · Analysis, Conclusions and Evaluation

Q1Manipulation, Measurement and ObservationPresentation of Data and ObservationsAnalysis, Conclusions and EvaluationFree sample

In this experiment, you will investigate how the extension of a spring depends on the load applied to it.

(a)

Set up the apparatus as shown in Fig. 1.1 where the mass $m$ is $200\text{ g}$ .

Fig. 1.1

Use the Blu-Tack to attach the protractor to the edge of the block along the $90^{\circ}$ line.

Use the ruler to ensure that the wooden rod is directly above the edge of the block as shown. Clamp the block to the bench with the G-clamp.

The boss should be clamped tightly to the stand to prevent the rod from rotating.

(b)

(i)

Adjust the height of the boss so that the spring is perpendicular to the wooden strip. Use the set square to check that the strip and spring are perpendicular to each other by placing it gently as shown in Fig. 1.2. Any contact of the set square with the strip will cause the apparatus to move.

Fig. 1.2

(ii)

Measure and record the length $L$ of the coiled part of the spring as shown in Fig. 1.2.

$L$ = ______

(iii)

Measure and record the angle $\theta$ between the strip and the vertical line on the protractor as shown in Fig. 1.1.

$\theta$ = ______

(c)

Change $m$ and repeat (b) until you have five sets of values of $m$ , $L$ and $\theta$ .
For each set of readings the spring and strip should be perpendicular to each other.

Include values of $m \sin \theta$ in your table.

10M

(d)

(i)

Plot a graph of $L$ on the $y$ -axis against $m \sin \theta$ on the $x$ -axis.

(ii)

Draw the straight line of best fit.

(iii)

Determine the gradient and $y$ -intercept of this line.

gradient = ______
$y$ -intercept = ______

(e)

The quantities $L$ , $m$ and $\theta$ are related by the equation

L = P m \sin \theta + Q

where $P$ and $Q$ are constants.

Using your answers in (d)(iii), determine the values of $P$ and $Q$ .
Give appropriate units.

$P$ = ______
$Q$ = ______

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Q2Manipulation, Measurement and Observation · Analysis, Conclusions and Evaluation · Presentation of Data and Observations20M

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