A student investigated the stretching of a spring - Edexcel - A-Level Physics - Question 3 - 2023 - Paper 3
Question 3
A student investigated the stretching of a spring.
(a) The student used a metre rule to measure the unstretched length l0 of the spring.
(i) The value of l0 was 5.... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A student investigated the stretching of a spring - Edexcel - A-Level Physics - Question 3 - 2023 - Paper 3
Step 1
Explain why a metre rule is an appropriate instrument for this measurement.
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Answer
A metre rule is appropriate for measuring the unstretched length of the spring because:
Precision: It allows for precise measurement, typically down to 0.1 cm, which is suitable for this scale of measurement.
Visibility: The markings on the rule are clear and easy to read, enabling accurate readings without much parallax error.
Step 2
Describe two techniques the student should use to make this measurement as accurate as possible.
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Ensure the rule is vertical: The student should make sure the ruler is vertical relative to the spring to minimize any measurement errors caused by angle misalignment.
Use a set square: The use of a set square to hold the ruler in place can prevent it from moving, ensuring that the position of the spring is stable when taking the measurement.
Step 3
Criticise the recording of these results.
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The recording of results can be criticized due to:
Missing Data Points: The weight of 0.39 N corresponds to a stretched length of 12 cm, which shows a significant jump in values without intermediate measurements that could provide more data points for analysis.
Step 4
Explain which value he should check.
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Answer
The student should check the value at W = 0.39 N for consistency with the linear relationship shown in the graph, as it is an outlier compared to other points nearer to the line of best fit.
Step 5
Determine the weight W of the piece of modelling clay.
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Answer
To find the weight W of the piece of modelling clay, we can use the formula:
W=kimes(l−l0)
Where k is the spring constant. Here, using the information provided, we can deduce that the stretching due to modelling clay leads to:
W=0.39N+0.05N=0.44N
Step 6
Determine the density of the modelling clay.
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Answer
Using the formula given for density:
density of modelling clay=Wf−FWf
Substituting the values, we get:
density of modelling clay=0.65−0.270.65=0.380.65≈1710 kg/m3
Step 7
Deduce whether the modelling clay could be made from polymer clay.
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Answer
Considering the density calculated as approximately 1710 kg/m³:
The density of polymer clay is provided as 1760 kg/m³, and since 1710 kg/m³ is less than this density and within a 4% uncertainty range, it is reasonable to conclude that the modelling clay could potentially be made from polymer clay.
