2 (a) (i) Which of these is the correct equation that relates force, mass and acceleration? A F = m + a B F = m - a C F = m × a D F = m ÷ a (ii) A cyclist has a mass of 70 kg - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 2 - 2020 - Paper 1

To calculate the force needed to accelerate the cyclist, we use the equation:

$F = m \times a$

Where:

• Mass (m) = 70 kg
• Acceleration (a) = 2.0 m/s²

Calculating the force:

$F = 70 \, \text{kg} \times 2.0 \, \text{m/s}^2 = 140 \, \text{N}$

Thus, the force needed is 140 N. The unit is N (Newtons).

To calculate the average speed, we use the formula:

$\text{average speed} = \frac{\text{distance}}{\text{time}}$

Given:

• Distance = 1200 m
• Time = 80 s

Calculating the average speed:

$\text{average speed} = \frac{1200 \, \text{m}}{80 \, \text{s}} = 15 \, \text{m/s}$

Therefore, the average speed is 15 m/s.

The student could make the following improvements to enhance the measurement method:

1. Use a more precise measuring device, such as a trundle wheel, tape measure, or GPS for accurate distance measurement.
2. Implement an electronic timer instead of a manual stopwatch, allowing for more accurate timing and reducing human error.