Scalars and vectors: past paper questions
Real questions on scalars and vectors
The newest 20 of 27 written questions. Open one to see it on the real paper.
- 9702/22 · May/June 2025 · Q1a[2]
Table 1.1 lists some physical quantities. Identify with ticks (✓) which quantities are vectors and which are scalars. Table 1.1 quantity scalar vector acceleration gravitational potential energy speed temperature displacement
See it on the paper → - 9702/22 · October/November 2024 · Q1a[1]
State what is meant by a vector quantity.
See it on the paper → - 9702/53 · October/November 2024 · Q2a[1]
A graph is plotted of I on the y-axis against R on the x-axis. Determine expressions for the gradient and y-intercept. gradient =
See it on the paper → - 9702/22 · February/March 2024 · Q2c(i)[2]
Describe and explain the variation of the viscous drag force acting on the diver in the water as he moves downwards.
See it on the paper → - 9702/23 · October/November 2023 · Q1a[1]
Table 1.1 lists some physical quantities. Complete the table by placing a tick (✓) next to the scalar quantities. Table 1.1 acceleration charge momentum power upthrust
See it on the paper → - 9702/42 · October/November 2023 · Q5c(ii)[3]
On Fig. 5.1, draw four lines to represent the electric field between the plates.
See it on the paper → - 9702/42 · October/November 2023 · Q5c(iii)[3]
The distance between the plates is 5.2 cm. Determine the mass of the oil droplet. mass = kg
See it on the paper → - 9702/23 · May/June 2023 · Q3b(i)[3]
the angle θ θ = °
See it on the paper → - 9702/23 · May/June 2023 · Q3b(ii)[2]
the speed v. v = m s −1
See it on the paper → - 9702/52 · May/June 2023 · Q2a[1]
A graph is plotted of V on the y-axis against θ on the x-axis. Determine expressions for the gradient and y-intercept. gradient = y-intercept =
See it on the paper → - 9702/42 · February/March 2023 · Q9b(i)[1]
V o V o = V
See it on the paper → - 9702/23 · May/June 2022 · Q3a[1]
Define velocity.
See it on the paper → - 9702/23 · October/November 2021 · Q3a[1]
Define velocity.
See it on the paper → - 9702/23 · May/June 2021 · Q1a(i)[2]
State two other scalar quantities and two other vector quantities. scalar quantities: and vector quantities: and
See it on the paper → - 9702/23 · May/June 2021 · Q1a(ii)[2]
State two properties that are possessed by both scalar and vector physical quantities. 1. 2.
See it on the paper → - 9702/21 · October/November 2020 · Q1c(i)[1]
Show that the component of the weight that is perpendicular to the rod is 4.3 N.
See it on the paper → - 9702/21 · October/November 2020 · Q1c(ii)[3]
By taking moments about end A of the rod, calculate the tension T. T = N
See it on the paper → - 9702/21 · October/November 2020 · Q3a[1]
Define force.
See it on the paper → - 9702/22 · October/November 2020 · Q1a[2]
Complete Table 1.1 by putting a tick (3) in the appropriate column to indicate whether the listed quantities are scalars or vectors. Table 1.1 quantity scalar vector acceleration density temperature momentum
See it on the paper → - 9702/23 · October/November 2020 · Q2b(i)[1]
Calculate the horizontal component of the force exerted on the post by the wire connected to point C. horizontal component of force = N
See it on the paper →
What examiners said
Most candidates were able to identify at least one of the scalar quantities in the given list. A common misconception was that upthrust (a force) is a scalar quantity.
— Examiner report, October/November 2023, 9702/23 Q1(a) (Cambridge)
This question was generally well answered. In most instances where full credit was not awarded, this was due to carelessness with drawing the diagram rather than the candidate not knowing what the pattern should be.
— Examiner report, October/November 2023, 9702/42 Q5(c)(ii) (Cambridge)
Most candidates realised that the electric field strength between the plates can be calculated from the potential gradient. The more able candidates realised that the electric force needed to be equated with the weight of the oil droplet, and many then went on to calculate the correct mass.
— Examiner report, October/November 2023, 9702/42 Q5(c)(iii) (Cambridge)
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