Uniform electric fields: past paper questions
Real questions on uniform electric fields
The newest 9 of 9 written questions. Open one to see it on the real paper.
- 9702/43 · May/June 2025 · Q7c(i)[3]
Explain how an electric field can be used with the magnetic field to ensure that the particle in (b) now passes through point Z.
See it on the paper → - 9702/43 · May/June 2025 · Q7c(ii)[2]
Derive an expression for v in terms of B and the electric field strength E. v =
See it on the paper → - 9702/42 · February/March 2024 · Q5b(iv)[2]
The speed of the alpha particle in (b)(ii) is 1.1 × 10 6 m s –1 . An electric field is applied so that this particle now moves with constant velocity. Use your answer in (b)(ii) to calculate the electric field strength E. Give the unit with your answer. E = unit
See it on the paper → - 9702/41 · May/June 2022 · Q2b[2]
Calculate the strength of the uniform electric field. electric field strength = N C –1
See it on the paper → - 9702/22 · May/June 2021 · Q6d[2]
The α-particles in the vacuum in (c) enter a uniform electric field. The α-particles enter the field with their velocity in the same direction as the field. State and explain whether the magnitude of the acceleration of an α-particle due to the field decreases, increases or stays constant as the α-particle moves throug...
See it on the paper → - 9702/22 · May/June 2021 · Q6e[2]
A nucleus X is an isotope of a nucleus Y. The mass of nucleus X is greater than that of Y. Both of the nuclei are in the same uniform electric field. State and explain whether the magnitude of the electric force acting on nucleus X is greater than, less than or the same as that acting on nucleus Y.
See it on the paper → - 9702/42 · May/June 2020 · Q7b(i)[2]
Use Fig. 7.2 to determine the radius R of the sphere. Explain your working. R = cm
See it on the paper → - 9702/42 · May/June 2020 · Q7b(ii)[3]
Use Fig. 7.2 to determine the charge Q on the sphere. Q = C
See it on the paper → - 9702/22 · February/March 2019 · Q4b(i)[2]
The electric field is produced by applying a potential difference of 4.0 kV between two charged parallel metal plates. 1. Calculate the separation between the plates. separation = m 2. Describe the arrangement of the two plates. Include in your answer a statement of the sign of the charge on each plate. You may draw on...
See it on the paper →
What examiners said
Many candidates used the formula for the electric field strength due to a point charge. Others calculated the centripetal force. Only a small number of candidates correctly used the vertical equilibrium due to the weight and the electric force.
— Examiner report, May/June 2022, 9702/41 Q2(b) (Cambridge)
This question was difficult for many candidates. A common mistake was to state that the acceleration would increase rather than stay constant, possibly because candidates were confusing acceleration with velocity. Those candidates who did realise that the acceleration would stay constant often omitted a valid supporting explanation.
— Examiner report, May/June 2021, 9702/22 Q6(d) (Cambridge)
Most responses were correct. Some candidates incorrectly thought that the electric force on the nucleus X in the uniform electric field would be greater because it had greater mass. Such candidates seemed to assume, incorrectly, that the two nuclei had the same acceleration.
— Examiner report, May/June 2021, 9702/22 Q6(e) (Cambridge)
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