SURE

CASE

PASS
PHYSICAL SCIENCES
GRADE 12
PHYSICS (P1)
EXAM COACHING: PREPARATION AND TIPS

PREPARED BY
MR. MBAY I.B
(PHYSICAL SCIENCES EDUCATOR AT NORTHWOOD SCHOOL)

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1. HOW TO USE THE SURE CASE PASS BOOKLET

 A Pass is guaranteed if you follow all instructions in this booklet

 Select FOUR different past exam papers and their memos. Hard copies are
preferable to soft copies
 Study and practice for ONE topic at a time with the selected past exam papers
 Have an exam pad or exercise book and a pen/pencil
 Write down ALL the answers, even if you assume that you know them enough
 Consult your teacher for Clarity on aspects you do not understand
 All definitions are provided at the last pages of this booklet

2. BASIC SKILLS

a. Spare enough time to study before the exam

b. Associate the content of each question to the relevant topic
c. Read FULLY and CAREFULLY each question statement
d. Memorise and master ALL definitions, laws and conditions associated to the topic
e. Make use of the Formula sheet provided
f. Associate a formula to each definition or law (make use of the formula sheet)
g. Make a substitution (write numbers) after each formula
h. Always write the correct SI Unit for the final answer, where applicable.
i. Mind and Manage the time wisely
j. Each mark counts
k. ATTEMPT ALL the questions

IMPORTANT NOTE: MUST READ

- The box at the end of each topic shows the SURE CASE marks.
- The question paper itself carries answers to some questions. Just a matter of
playing smart
- The question on definition or stating a law always gives you a hint on the formula in
the next calculation question.
E.g. If you are asked to state Work – energy theorem in one question, then the next
question with a calculation will require the use of formula Wnet=ΔEk
There is no way they can ask you to state the law of conservation of linear
momentum then immediately ask you to calculate the impulse in the next question.
Basically, YOU SHOULD APPLY WHAT YOU HAVE STATED.
- Each FORMULA is associated to a definition, law or theorem
- Make use of the formula sheet provided, Most formulae carry the definition
E.g. The formula for Work – energy theorem Wnet=ΔEk is the theorem itself, you
simply have to say each letter or symbol in full word.
Wnet = Δ Ek

The net work done is equal to the change in kinetic energy

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- Associate each Topic or question to the appropriate box in the formula sheet

Q3: Vertical Projectile Motion

Q2: Newton’s laws

Q4 ; Momentum and Impulse

Q5: Work, Energy and Power

Q6: Doppler Effect

Q10: Photoelectric effect

Q7: Electrostatics

Q8: Electric circuits

Q9: Electrodynamics

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3. STRUCTURE OF THE PAPER

QUESTIONS MAIN TOPIC SUB-TOPIC

1 MULTIPLE CHOICE
2 NEWTON’S LAWS
3 VERTICAL PROJECTILE MOTION
4 MOMENTUM AND IMPULSE
5 WORK, ENERGY AND POWER
6 DOPPLER EFFECT
7 ELECTROSTATICS
8 ELECTRIC CIRCUITS
9 ELECTRODYNAMICS
10 PHOTOELECTRIC EFFECT

Total mark: 150

Duration: 3 Hours (180 minutes)

4. SURE CASE MARKS PER QUESTION

QUESTION 1

MULTIPLE CHOICE: covering all topics

a. There are 10 Multiple choice questions (1.1 to 1. 10)

b. Each question has 4 options A, B, C and D
c. Read fully and carefully the question
d. Identify which topic is assessed in the question
e. Eliminate options that are clearly incorrect, usually TWO options
f. Read again the question before choosing the correct option from the remaining two
g. Write the chosen option letter next to the question number in your answer booklet.
h. If you are not sure about your answer, DO NOT leave a blank space. Rather guess
the answer and put a sign next to it, in case you get time to return to that question.
i. ANSWER ALL the Multiple choice questions

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QUESTION 2
NEWTON’S LAWS
 Memorise the following terms and aspects (Refer to page 29)
Concept Associated formula(e)
1 Define Normal force N=mg, N=mg-Fy, N=mg+Fy, N=mgcosɵ,
N=mgcosɵ-Fy, N=mgcosɵ+Fy
2 Define Frictional force f = µ.N
3 Define Static friction fsmax = µs .N
4 Define kinetic friction fk = µk.N
5 State Newton’s first law of motion Fnet=0
6 State Newton’s second law of motion Fnet=ma
7 State Newton’s second law in terms Δp
Fnet =
of momentum Δt

8 State Newton’s third law of motion FA on B=FB on A

9 State Newton’s law of universal G. 𝑚1 . 𝑚2
F=
gravitation 𝑟2

 Practice and master how to draw a free – body or force diagram

Listing possible forces you might come across:
- Gravitational force or weight (Fg or w), for any object having a mass
- Normal force (N), for all objects resting or moving on a surface
- Frictional force (Static friction fs or Kinetic friction fk)
- Air friction (fair), the question will state when to consider air friction
- Tension (T), an object pulling another with a string/rope
- Action – reaction forces, an object pushing another by physical contact, no string
FA on B and FB on A
- Applied force
 Remember the Action – reaction force
- The reaction force to the weight of an object is the Force that the object exerts
on the Earth
- Always think of Newton’s third law. The reaction force to the Force that object A
exerts on object B is the Force that object B exerts on object A

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 After drawing a free-body diagram you must Draw a simplified free-body diagram
that show ONLY forces that act parallel to the motion or displacement of the object
E.g. Draw a free-body diagram of all forces acting on the block shown below
considering that the block moves at constant velocity to the right

Free-body diagram of ALL forces Free-body diagram of forces parallel to the

surface

 Master how to write the expression of the net force (Fnet) acting on each object
Like in the example above; Fnet = Fx - fk
 Always take the direction of motion of the object as positive
 The net force is zero ( Fnet = 0 ) if the object is stationary or moves at constant
velocity
 Calculating different forces and the Fnet expression

Gravitational force (weight), Fg or w

The gravitational force is calculated as Fg = m.g
- If the object lies on a Horizontal surface, DO NOT include Fg in the Fnet
expression.
- If the object lies on an inclined surface, ALWAYS include Fg// (Fg// = m.g.sinɵ)
in the Fnet expression.
- If the objet moves vertically, up or down, you should include Fg in the Fnet
expression

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Normal force (N)
- NEVER include the normal force in the expression of Fnet
- Calculating the normal depends on the surface (horizontal or inclined) and the
applied force (parallel to the surface or making an angle with the surface)
 Memorise and master how to calculate the Normal force for these scenarios
Surface and force Example scenario Formula to calculate
Normal force
Horizontal surface
Horizontal force (s) N = m.g

Horizontal surface N = m.g – Fy

Force acting at an angle upwards (Fy = F x sin α)

Horizontal surface N = m.g + Fy

Force acting at an angle downwards (Fy = F x sin α)

Inclined plane (surface)

Force acting parallel to the surface N = m.g.cosɵ

Inclined surface
Force acting at an angle upwards N = m.g.cosɵ - Fy
(Fy = F x sin α)

Inclined surface N = m.g.cosɵ + Fy

Force acting at an angle downwards (Fy = F x sin α)

Friction (f)
- Always include friction, if it is present, in the Fnet expression
- Frictional force always acts opposite to the motion of the object
- If you take the direction of motion as positive, then friction will have a negative
sign when substituting it in the Fnet expression.
- To calculate the magnitude of frictional force:
 If coefficient of friction is given
- Use the formula fsmax = µs .N for static friction and
- Use the formula fk = µk.N for kinetic friction
 If coefficient of friction is not given
- Make use of the Fnet expression to find friction.
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Tension (T)
 Tension is a force developed in (or transmitted through) a rope or string
 There is no specific formula to calculate the tension as it is considered as an
applied force.
 You will generally find tension T in the Fnet expression
 The direction of tension goes to the side of the object where the string is attached.
So if the string is attached to the left side of the object, the tension pulls it to the left.
If the string is attached at the top of the object, the tension goes upwards
e.g.

Note that the string is attached to the right side of X so, the Tension pulls block X to
the right. Equally so, the tension pulls block Y to the left.
 If there are two are in contact and one pushes another, then we have an action-
reaction pair of forces

Block X experiences a force due to Y (FYonX) pushing it to the left

Block Y experiences a force due to X (FXonY) pushing it to the right
These two forces are equal and act in opposite direction. But they do not cancel
each other because they act on different objects.
In calculations, treat them the same way you treated Tension

Applied force (F)

 The applied force must always be included in the Fnet expression
 If the applied force acts at an angle α relative to the surface, then only the
component of the force parallel to the surface (Horizontal component) , Fx, must be
included in the Fnet expression.
This component is calculated as Fx = F cos α

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 CALCULATIONS INVOLVING NEWTON’S LAWS
- Draw a free body diagram of ALL forces for each object (Sure case marks)
- Draw a free body diagram showing ONLY forces acting parallel to the
motion/surface
- Take the direction of motion as positive
- Write the Fnet expression for each object using vector sum of forces (Fnet = ΣF)
- Write the formula Fnet = m.a (a sure case 1 mark)
- Equate the two expressions for Fnet
Σ F = m.a
- If there is only ONE unknown in the equation, solve for it.
- If there are two unknowns, a and T, in both equations then solve the
simultaneous equations.
 NEWTON’S LAW OF UNIVERSAL GRAVITATION
- Memorise the law
G.𝑚1 .𝑚2
- Use the formula F = 𝑟2
G..𝑀2
- Other formulae to use under this topic are g = and Fg = m.g
𝑟2

SURE CASE MARKS FOR QUESTION 2

- Define one of the forces 2 marks
- Formula for calculating the force 1 mark
- Draw a free body diagram 3 marks (minimum)
- State one of Newton’s laws 2 marks
- Use of formula Fnet = m.a 1 mark
G.𝑚1 .𝑚2
- Use of formula F = 1 mark
𝑟2

PRACTISE
NOW try to answer 3 questions from 3 different past papers. Write down your answers.
EVALUATE
Did it work? Did you score ± 6 marks for each question paper?
- If YES, TRY the fourth past question paper and move to question 3
- If NO, READ AGAIN your notes and repeat this exercise

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QUESTION 3
VERTICAL PROJECTILE MOTION
 Memorise and master the following terms and aspect (refer to page 29)
1 Define Free fall Equations of motion
2 Define Projectile Equations of motion
3 Magnitude and direction of acceleration 9, 8 m.s-2 Downwards

 Equations of motion
1. vf = vi + aΔt
2. vf2 = vi2 + 2aΔy
3. Δy = viΔt + ½ aΔt2
Vi+Vf
4. Δy = ( ) ∆t
2

 Remember to use the formula Δx = v. Δt if the motion of an object moving at a

constant velocity is involved. The object can be a Hot-air balloon, a Helicopter, a
rocket…
 Note that there are only five variables (terms) to deal with for this topic:
- Initial velocity: vi (vector quantity)
- Final velocity: vf (vector quantity)
- Displacement: Δx (vector quantity)
- Acceleration: a (vector quantity)
- Time interval: Δt (scalar quantity)
 Notice that each equation has got FOUR terms, and the value of acceleration a,
that is 9.8 m.s-2, is known (Constant). So practically three terms to focus on.
The question statement will provide information about 2 terms and ask you to find
the third one (the unknown).
 Always consider two points (positions) before attempting any calculation:
A starting point and an end point for the object’s motion. This Must be informed by
the question you are about to answer
The velocity at the starting point is the initial velocity and the velocity at the end
point is the final velocity
The displacement Δx is the length between the starting point and the end point.
Ignore the path taken by the object to move from start to end.
So between the two positions, play with the variables vi, vf, Δx and Δt to select a
suitable formula and solve the problem

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 The choice of direction is very CRITICAL for Vertical projectile motion
The choice of direction imposes the SIGN of acceleration a (+9, 8 or – 9, 8).
So if you take UPWARDS as positive, the sign of acceleration will be NEGATIVE
(- 9, 8) in ALL your calculations, REGARDLESS of whether the object is moving
upwards or downwards. Equally so, if downwards is taken as positive, acceleration
will be positive in all calculations.

 Master these signs allocation after choosing the direction: Stick to only ONE

IF UPWARDS IS TAKEN AS POSITIVE IF DOWNWARDS IS TAKEN AS POSITIVE

Acceleration a, upwards or downwards Acceleration a, upwards or downwards gets
gets a negative sign (a = - 9, 8) a positive sign (a = + 9, 8)
Velocity (vi or vf) upwards gets a positive Velocity (vi or vf) upwards gets a negative
sign sign
Velocity (vi or vf) downwards gets a Velocity (vi or vf) downwards gets a positive
negative sign
Height above the starting point (Δx) gets a Height above the starting point (Δx) gets a
positive sign negative sign
Height below the starting point (Δx) gets a Height below the starting point (Δx) gets a
negative sign positive sign
Time interval (Δt) will always be positive Time interval (Δt) will always be positive

 Remember that the mass of the object is not necessary for equations of motion.
Note that if the mass of the object is given the possibility is that there would be
integration of momentum (p = m.v), change in momentum (Δp = m(vf-vi) or
impulse/Newton’s second law in terms of momentum (Fnet.Δt = Δp) involved.
 If two objects are given, the first thing is to identify which quantities (vi, vf, Δx or Δt)
are the same for both object
 Get familiar and master all possible scenarios about Vertical projectile motion

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 DRAWING OR INTERPRETING GRAPHS OF MOTION OF A PROJECTILE
- Position – time graph
- Remember that the position – time graph of a projectile is a curve
The x-axis correspond to the position of the observer, it is referred to as the
ZERO-POSITION
E.g. an object is thrown vertically upwards from the top of a building and hits the
ground below the throwing point after some time.
Taking upwards as positive
Take top of the building as Zero-position Take Ground as Zero – position

 Velocity – time graph

- Remember that the velocity – time graph of a projectile is a straight line with a
positive or negative gradient
- Note that the x-axis, where the velocity is zero, is the lowest value with regards
to the velocity. Each segment of the line drawn towards the x-axis implies a
decrease in velocity, regardless of whether the line is above or below the x-axis.
Any segment of line drawn away from the x-axis implies an increase in velocity.
e.g. Two graphs that represent the same scenario

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Segment A – B, the line is drawn directed TOWARDS the x – axis. So from A to
B, the velocity DECREASES
Segment B – C, the line is drawn directed AWAY FROM the x – axis. So from B
to C, the velocity INCREASES
- The gradient of velocity – time graph represents the acceleration
- The area between the line and the x – axis represents the displacement

- Acceleration – time graph

- Remember that the acceleration of a projectile is constant
- The acceleration – time graph is a straight horizontal line
- The horizontal line is drawn above the x-axis from + 9,8 if Downwards was taken
as positive
- The horizontal line is drawn below the x-axis from – 9,8 if Upwards was taken as
positive

SURE CASE MARKS FOR QUESTION 3

- Define Free fall or projectile 2 marks
- Formula to calculate time 1 mark
- Formula to calculate velocity 1 mark
- Formula to calculate displacement 1 mark
- Drawing a graph (shape or starting point)
Or interpreting graph (reading value from graph) 1 marks
PRACTISE
NOW try to answer 3 questions from 3 different past papers. Write down your answers.
EVALUATE
Did it work? Did you score ± 6 marks for each question paper?
- If YES, TRY the fourth past question paper and move to question 4
- If NO, READ AGAIN your notes and repeat this exercise

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QUESTION 4
MOMENTUM, CONSERVATION OF MOMENTUM AND IMPULSE
 Memorise and master the following terms and aspect (Refer to page 29)
1 Define momentum P = m.v
2 Define isolated system External Fnet = 0
3 Define impulse Impulse = Fnet.Δt
4 State Impulse – momentum theorem Impulse = Δp
5 State Newton’s second law in terms Δp
Fnet =
of momentum Δt

6 State principle of conservation of Σ p before = Σ p after

linear momentum
7 Define Elastic collision p and Ek both conserved (Ek = ½ mv2)
8 Define Inelastic collision p conserved but Σ Ek not conserved

 Remember that momentum is a vector quantity and so direction must be taken into
consideration in every calculation and stated in the final answer.
 Note that the change in momentum Δ p = m (vf-vi) has the same magnitude as the
impulse.
If you are asked to calculate impulse but no Force or/and time are given in the
statement, then just calculate the change in momentum to get the magnitude of the
impulse.
 Fnet.Δt = Δ p. This formula easily integrate momentum with other topics such
vertical projectile motion, newton’s laws and work energy and power.
 Law of conservation of linear momentum
- It is used when two objects are involved
- ALWAYS remember to put NEGATIVE SIGN for velocity if the object moves in
the opposite direction to what you took as positive.
- Note that the formula associated to conservation of linear momentum is NOT
PROVIDED on the formula sheet, You shall MEMORIZE IT
- The safest formula to use is Σ p before = Σ p after
There are three possible scenarios.
- After writing the expression above you can now proceed to the detailed formula
that corresponds to the scenario stated in the question and do the substitution

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1. Separated objects collide then separate after collision
m1.v1i + m2.v2i = m1.v1f + m2.v2f
2. Separated objects collide then move together as a unit, with same
velocity
m1.v1i + m2.v2i = vf (m1+ m2)
3. Initially combined objects (same velocity) separate after explosion
vf (m1 + m2) = m1.v1f + m2.v2f
 Elastic and inelastic collision
To Check whether a collision is elastic or inelastic, use the formula Ek = ½ mv2 for
each object before the collision. Do the same for each object after the collision.
If the total kinetic energy before the collision is equal to the total kinetic energy after
the collision, then the collision is ELASTIC, if not, the collision is INELASTIC.

SURE CASE MARKS FOR QUESTION 4

- Define Momentum or impulse 2 marks
- Formula to calculate momentum or impulse 1 mark
- State the law of conservation of linear momentum 2 marks
- Formula for conservation of linear momentum 1 mark
- Define Elastic or Inelastic collision 2 marks
- Formula to prove elastic or inelastic collision 1 mark
PRACTISE
NOW try to answer 3 questions from 3 different past papers. Write down your answers.
EVALUATE
Did it work? Did you score ± 6 marks for each question paper?
- If YES, TRY the fourth past question paper and move to question 5
- If NO, READ AGAIN your notes and repeat this exercise

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QUESTION 5
WORK, ENERGY AND POWER

 Memorise and master the following terms and concepts (refer to page 29)
1 Define Work done W = FΔxcosɵ
2 State the work – energy theorem Wnet = ΔEk
3 Define Conservative force Wc = - ΔEp
4 Define Non – conservative force Wnc = ΔEp + ΔEk
5 Define Gravitational potential energy Ep = mgh
6 Define kinetic energy Ek = ½ mv2
7 Define Mechanical energy EM = Ep + Ek
8 State the law of conservation of mechanical energy Ep + Ek = Ep + Ek
9 Define Power W
P = Δt / Pavg = Fvavg

 Remember that Work is done on an object by a force acting parallel or at an angle ɵ

to the displacement of the object
W = FΔxcosɵ
 Always start by drawing a free-body diagram of ALL the forces acting on the object

 Remember the following aspects

- ɵ is the angle between the force and the displacement
- Work done by Normal is always Zero (ɵ is 900)
- Work done by friction is always negative (ɵ is 1800)
- Work done can be positive, negative or zero

 The net work done (Wnet) can be calculated in three different ways
- Wnet = W F1+ W F2+ …. (sum of work done by each force acting on the object)
- Wnet = FnetΔxcosɵ
- Wnet = ½ mv2f – ½ mv2i
- ALWAYS LINK any two of these formulae, depending on the information given in
the statement and what you need to calculate
 The net work done is zero (Wnet = 0) if the object is stationary or move at a
constant speed.

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 If friction is the only non-conservative force acting on the object, then Wnc = W f

 Use these formulae Wnc = ΔEp + ΔEk and mgh + ½ mv2 = mgh + ½ mv2 mostly
when HEIGHT is involved, i.e. if the object moves vertically (up or down) or the
object is on an inclined surface
 Use this formula mghi + ½ mvi2 = mghf + ½ mvf2 only when there is NO friction or
any other applied force and also when height is involved

W
 Remember that in the formula P = Δt , W represents the work done by the force

that develops the power

 Use the formula Pavg = Fvavg if the speed of the object is given instead of time

SURE CASE MARKS FOR QUESTION 5

- Define one of the terms 2 marks
- Formula to calculate that quantity 1 mark
- State the law of conservation of Mechanical energy 2 marks
- Formula for conservation of mechanical energy 1 mark
- State the work – energy theorem 2 marks
- Formula for work – energy theorem 1 mark
PRACTISE
NOW try to answer 3 questions from 3 different past papers. Write down your answers.
EVALUATE
Did it work? Did you score ± 6 marks for each question paper?
- If YES, TRY the fourth past question paper and move to question 6
- If NO, READ AGAIN your notes and repeat this exercise

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QUESTION 6

DOPPLER EFFECT
 Memorise and master the following terms (refer to page 30)
1 Define Doppler effect v ± vL
fL = X fS
v ± vS
2 Explain Redshift v = f x λ Shift towards lower frequency
3 Explain Blueshift 1
f= Shift towards higher frequency
T

4 State applications of Doppler effect

 Use the Doppler Effect equation with the ± as given. It is the safest way to secure 1
mark

 Tips for choosing formula

Check the number of questions under Doppler Effect

- If there is only ONE calculation, then the formula to use is

v ± vL
fL = X fS
v ± vS

- If there are TWO calculations, the one with MORE marks is the one to use the
Doppler Effect formula for. The other calculation, usually for 3 marks, the
formula to use is
- v=fxλ Note that in this formula, v is the speed of sound in air, not the speed
of the listener or the source of sound
1
- f= T

The choice of the formula will depend on the question.

𝐯±𝐯𝐋
 For the formula 𝐟𝐋 = 𝐗 𝐟𝐒
𝐯 ± 𝐯𝐒

- Never use the same sign on both the numerator and the denominator.
If + sign is used on the numerator, then – sign goes to the denominator and vice
versa

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- If one, between the listener and the source of sound, moves TOWARDS
another, the numerator will have the + sign and so obviously the – sign for the
denominator.
Use the word TOP to remember
(TOP for numerator, TO for TOwards and P for Plus sign)

 Memorize the applications of Doppler Effect in medicine and other fields

- Ultrasound machine : to check the unborn baby for pregnant women
- Doppler flowmeter: to monitor the speed of blood

 Explain Redshift and blueshift in terms of shift in spectral lines.

- Redshift: Lines shift towards lower frequencies: MOVING AWAY
- Blueshift: Lines shift towards higher frequencies: MOVING TOWARDS
 Remember that Redshift proves to us that the universe is EXPANDINDING

SURE CASE MARKS FOR QUESTION 6

- Define Doppler Effect 2 marks
- Formula to calculate frequency or Wavelength 1 mark
- Doppler Effect formula 1 marks
- Application of Doppler Effect 1 mark
PRACTISE
NOW try to answer 3 questions from 3 different past papers. Write down your answers.
EVALUATE
Did it work? Did you score ± 5 marks for each question paper?
- If YES, TRY the fourth past question paper and move to question 7
- If NO, READ AGAIN your notes and repeat this exercise

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QUESTION 7

ELECTROSTATICS
 Memorise and master the following terms (Refer to page 30)
1 Charge quantisation Q = n.qe
2 Conservation of charge Q1 + Q 2
Qnew =
2
3 State Coulomb’s law kQ1 Q2
F=
r2
4 Define Electric field
5 Define Electric field at a point F kQ
E=q or E = r2

 Remember that positively charged object lost electrons and a negatively charged
object gained electrons
 Remember that if two charged objects are allowed to touch each other, electrons
will move from the object with a smaller electric charge to the object with a greater
electric charge
 To calculate the actual charge on each object after separation, use the formula
Q1 + Q2 Q1 + Q2 +Q3
𝑄new = if 2 charged objects are involved or Qnew = if 3 charges
2 3

are involved and so on

 To calculate the number of electrons transferred
First calculate the difference between the initial charge (before touching) and the
final charge (after separation)
Use the formula Q = n.qe to calculate the number of electrons n. This number must
always be negative.
kQ1 Q2
 After stating Coulomb’s law, use the formula F = for the next calculation
r2
kQ
 After defining Electric field or Electric field at a point, use the formula E = in most
r2
F
cases where distance is involved. Otherwise use E = q if there is a charge at that

point and you have been given or you have previously calculated the force

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 Remember that there are only 3 possible shapes for the electric field pattern

For only ONE charge For TWO charges

Positive charge Negative charge Attraction Repulsion

SURE CASE MARKS FOR QUESTION 7

- State coulomb’s law 2 marks
- Formula for Coulomb’s law 1 mark
- Define Electric field or Electric field at a point 2 marks
- Formula for electric field at a point 1 mark
- Draw electric field pattern 2 marks
PRACTISE
NOW try to answer 3 questions from 3 different past papers. Write down your answers.
EVALUATE
Did it work? Did you score ± 8 marks for each question paper?
- If YES, TRY the fourth past question paper and move to question 9
- If NO, READ AGAIN your notes and repeat this exercise

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QUESTION 8
ELECTRIC CIRCUITS
 Memorise and master the following terms (refer to page 30)
1 Define emf (Electromotive force) W
Maximum V= q

2 State Ohm’s law V = I.R

3 Define Internal resistance Ɛ = I (R + r)
4 Define Power 𝑉2 W
P=VI or P=I2R or P = or P = ∆t
R

 Remember the properties of series circuits

- Total resistance : RT = R1 + R2 + …
The total resistance increases as the number of resistors increases
- Current is the same through resistors in series: IT = I1 = I2 = …
- Voltage is divided among resistors in series: VT = V1 + V2 + …
 Remember the properties of parallel circuits
1 1 1
- Total resistance: R = R + R
1 2 3

The total resistance decreases as the number of resistors increases

- Current is divided among resistors in parallel: IT= I1+I2+…
- Voltage is the same across resistors in parallel: VT=V1=V2=…
 Remember the relationship between Current and resistance
If the resistance increases the current decreases and vice versa
 If power is given, make use of the applicable formula for power
𝑉2 W
P=VI, P=I2R, P= , or P = ∆t in order to get either I, V or R
R

 For any resistor, always consider these 3 variables I, V and R

If you are given 2 of them, calculate the unknown.
V
Make use of the formula I = in most of your calculations
R

 All resistors in an electric circuit are related in some sort

- It is either they have the same current or same voltage or
- They share the current or the voltage
 If you are asked to calculate the value of the internal resistance, use the formula
VLost=I.r or Ɛ = I (R + r)
 If you are asked to calculate the emf of the cell/battery, use the formula
Ɛ = I (R + r). Anyway, that is the only formula with emf from your data sheet.

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 Interpretation of basic graphs
Ohm’s law

Straight line with positive gradient Straight line with positive gradient
V is directly proportional to I I is directly proportional to V
The gradient of the graph represents The gradient of the graph represents the
the resistance INVERSE of the resistance
Relationship between I and V in the presence of Internal resistance
Straight line with negative gradient
External Voltage decreases as current
increases
The GRADIENT of the graph represents
the internal resistance
The y-intercept represents the emf

SURE CASE MARKS FOR QUESTION 8

- State ohm’s law 2 marks
- Calculating total resistance 1 mark
- Formula for Ohm’s law 1 mark
- Define emf/Internal resistance/power 2 marks
- Formula for emf or internal resistance 1 mark
- Formula for power 1 marks
PRACTISE
NOW try to answer 3 questions from 3 different past papers. Write down your answers.
EVALUATE
Did it work? Did you score ± 6 marks for each question paper?
- If YES, TRY the fourth past question paper and move to question 9
- If NO, READ AGAIN your notes and repeat this exercise
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QUESTION 9
ELECTRODYNAMICS
 Know, memorise and master the following terms (refer to page 30)
1 State energy conversion in electric Motor
2 State energy conversion in Generators
3 Distinguish between AC and DC machine
4 State the operational principle for Motors
5 State the operational principle for generators
6 Define rms current 𝐼𝑚𝑎𝑥
𝐼𝑟𝑚𝑠
√2
7 Define rms voltage 𝑉𝑚𝑎𝑥
𝑉𝑟𝑚𝑠
√2
 Distinguish between a DC or an AC machine from given sketch diagram.
 List all components of an electric machine
 Graphs of output voltage or current of an AC generator

 Be able to perform calculations involving average Power

V2rms
Pavg = Vrms.Irms, Pavg=I2rms R Pavg = R

 Calculations are similar to the ohm’s law calculations.

SURE CASE MARKS FOR QUESTION 9

- State energy conversion or principle of operation 2 marks
- Identify/name components of a machine 1 mark
- Distinguish between AC and DC machine 1 mark
- Define rms current or voltage 2 marks
- Formula Vrms or Irms in terms of Vmax or Imax and Pavg 1 mark
- State at least one advantage of AC over DC 1 marks
PRACTISE
NOW try to answer 3 questions from 3 different past papers. Write down your answers.
EVALUATE
Did it work? Did you score ± 6 marks for each question paper?
- If YES, TRY the fourth past question paper and move to question 10
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- If NO, READ AGAIN your notes and repeat this exercise
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QUESTION 10

PHOTOELECTRIC EFFECT
 Know, memorise and master the following terms (Refer to page 30)
1 Define Photoelectric Effect E = W 0 +Ekmax
2 Define Photon E = hf
3 Define Photoelectron Ekmax= ½ mv2
4 Define Work function W0=hf0
5 Define Threshold frequency c
f0 =
λ0
6 Explain line Absorption spectrum
7 Explain line Emission spectrum

 State the dual-nature of light : Wave and particle

 Remember the order arrangement of EM radiations
- In order of increasing frequency
Radiowaves – Microwaves – Infrared – Visible light – Ultra violet – X-ray – Gamma
rays (Remember RaMIVUX G)

 Remember the arrangement order of colours in a spectrum

- Order of increasing frequency
Red – Orange – Yellow – Green – Blue – Indigo – Violet. (Remember ROY GBIV)

 Remember that Photoelectric effect is a process, and as such it has three stages.
The three stages are interdependent:
You make use of information in stage 1 and 2 to find the unknown in stage 3.
Similarly you use information in stage 2 and 3 to get information in 1. Or finally use
information in 1 and 3 to get information in 2.

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 Summary of what each stage represent and related definitions and formulae.
From the Photoelectric Effect equation E = W 0 +Ekmax
Incident light (Photon) Metal Photoelectron
E W0 Ekmax
Photon Work function Kinetic energy
Energy Threshold frequency Speed
Frequency Threshold wavelength
Wavelength

 Tips for choosing formula

Check the number of questions under Photoelectric Effect
- If there is only ONE calculation, then the formula to use is E = W 0 +Ekmax
- If there are TWO calculations, the one with MORE marks is the one to use the
Photoelectric Effect equation (E = W 0 +Ekmax) for.
- The other calculation, usually for 3 marks, use the applicable formula from the
list below. The choice of formula is informed by the question and the data
available
- c=fxλ or c = f 0 x λ0
1
- f= T

- E = hf or W0=hf0
- Ekmax= ½ mv2
 Photocell

 The frequency of the incident light influences the speed of photoelectrons

 The intensity of the incident light influences the number of photoelectrons/current
 If the frequency of the incident light is increased
- The speed (Kinetic energy) of the photoelectrons increases
- The Ammeter reading (Number of photoelectrons) remains the same
 If the intensity of the incident light is increased
- The speed of photoelectrons remains the same
- The Ammeter reading increases
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 Interpretation of a basic graph under photoelectric effect

- The x-intercept represents the threshold frequency f 0

- The y-intercept represents the work function W 0
- The gradient of the graph represents Planck’s constant

 Line emission and Line absorption spectra

 Line absorption spectrum

- Requirements: White Light – Cold gas – Triangular prism – screen

- White light contains all the seven colours of a light spectrum

- The particles of the cold gas absorb some of photons of the white light

- A photon corresponds to energy,

- Energy corresponds to frequency and

- Frequency corresponds to colour.

- These colours will be missing on the screen and dark lines will be seen
throughout the spectrum

 Line absorption spectrum

- Requirements:
(Other source of energy) - Hot gas – Triangular prism – screen,

- The particles of a HOT gas absorb energy (from the other source of energy) to
move to a higher energy level.

- Particles fall back to their initial energy level by losing energy.

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- The Energy lost is emitted in the form of light.

- The energy emitted corresponds to a frequency

- The frequency corresponds to a colour of light.

- On the screen, bright lights (lines) with colours corresponding to the energy
emitted will be observed.

SURE CASE MARKS FOR QUESTION 10

- Define one of the terms 2 marks
- Use formula to calculate E, f,λ,W 0,f0, Ekmax or v 1 mark
- Use Photoelectric Effect equation 1 mark
- State the effect of frequency or intensity on photoelectrons 1 marks
PRACTISE
NOW try to answer 3 questions from 3 different past papers. Write down your answers.
EVALUATE
Did it work? Did you score ± 5 marks for each question paper?
- If YES, TRY the fourth past question paper
- If NO, READ AGAIN your notes and repeat this exercise

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5. TERMS, DEFINITIONS AND LAWS

1. NORMAL FORCE (N)

It is the Force or the component of force which a surface exerts on an object with which it is in
contact, and which is perpendicular to the surface.
2. STATIC FRICTIONAL FORCE (fs)
It is the force that opposes the tendency of motion of a stationary object relative to a surface.
3. KINETIC FRICTIONAL FORCE (fk)
It is the force that opposes the motion of moving object relative to a surface.
4. NEWTON’S 1st LAW OF MOTION
A body will remain in its state of rest or motion at constant velocity unless a non-zero net force acts
on it.
5. NEWTON’S 2nd LAW OF MOTION
a) When a NET force acts on an object, the object will accelerate in the direction of that force, this
acceleration is directly proportional to the force applied and inversely proportional to the mass of
the object.
b) The NET force acting on an object is equal to the rate of change of momentum.

6. NEWTON’S 3rd LAW OF MOTION

When one body exerts a force on a second body, the second body exerts a force of equal magnitude
in the opposite direction to the first force.
7. NEWTON’S LAW OF UNIVERSAL GRAVITATION
Each body in the universe attracts every other body with a force that is directly proportional to the
product of their masses and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between their
centres.

8. PROJECTILE
An object that has been given an initial velocity and upon which the ONLY force acting is the
gravitational force.
9. FREE FALL
It is the motion of an object which is under the influence of the gravitational force ONLY

10. MOMENTUM (p)

It is the product of the mass and velocity of an object.
11. IMPULSE (Fnet.Δt)
It is the product of the net force and the time that the Fnet acts on an object.
12. CLOSED/ISOLATED SYSTEM
A system on which the external resultant force is equal to zero.
13. PRINCIPLE OF CONSERVATION OF LINEAR MOMENTUM
The total linear momentum, in an isolated system, remains the same.
14. ELASTIC COLLISION
It is a collision in which both momentum and kinetic energy are conserved.
15. INELASTIC COLLISION.
It is a collision in which momentum is conserved and kinetic energy is not.

16. WORK – ENERGY THEOREM (Wnet=ΔEk)

The net work done on an object is equal to the change in the object’s kinetic energy.
17. CONSERVATIVE FORCE
It is a force for which the work done in moving an object between two points is independent of the
path taken.
18. NON – CONSERVATIVE FORCE
It is a force for which the work done in moving an object between two points depends on the path
taken.
19. GRAVITATIONAL POTENTIAL ENERGY
It is the energy an object possesses by virtue of its position.
20. KINETIC ENERGY
It is the energy an object possesses by virtue to its motion.
21. MECHANICAL ENERGY (EM)
It is the sum of the kinetic energy and the gravitational potential energy of an object.
22. PRINCIPLE OF CONSERVATION OF MECHANICAL ENERGY
In an isolated system, the total mechanical energy remains the same.

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23. POWER (P)
It is the rate at which work is done.
24. DOPPLER EFFECT
It is the apparent change in the frequency of a sound due to the relative motion between the listener
and the source of the sound.
25. REDSHIFT
It is the shift in the position of spectral lines to longer wavelengths when the source moves away
from the observer.
26. BLUESHIFT
It is the shift in the position of spectral lines to shorter wavelengths when the source moves towards
the listener.

27. COULOMB’S LAW

The magnitude of the electrostatic forces between two point charges is directly proportional to the
product of the charges and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them.
28. ELECTRIC FIELD
It is a region in space in which an electric charge experiences a force.
29. ELECTRIC FIELD AT A POINT
It is the force per unit charge.

30. ELECTROMOTIVE FORCE (Emf)

The maximum energy per coulomb of charge
31. OHM’S LAW
The potential difference across a conductor is directly proportional to the current in the conductor
provided the temperature remains constant.
32. INTERNAL RESISTANCE
The opposition to the flow of current within a cell or a battery.

33. ROOT MEAN SQUARE (rms)

The rms value of AC is the AC potential difference or current which dissipates the same amount of
energy as DC.

34. PHOTOELECTRIC EFFECT

It is a process whereby electrons are ejected from the surface of a metal when light of suitable
frequency shines on it.
35. PHOTON
It is a packet of energy found in light.
36. PHOTOELECTRON
It is an electron which has been emitted from a metal by a photon with sufficient energy.
37. TRESHHOLD FREQUENCY
(CUT – OFF FREQUENCY)
It is the minimum frequency of light needed to emit electrons from a surface of a metal.
38. WORK FUNCTION (WO)
It is the minimum energy that an electron needs to be emitted from a metal surface.
39. ATOMIC ABSORPTION SPECTRUM
It is formed when certain frequencies of electromagnetic radiation are absorbed when they pass
through a Cold gas.
40. ATOMIC EMISSION SPECTRUM
It is formed when certain frequencies of electromagnetic radiation are emitted from a hot gas due to
an atom’s electrons making a transition from a high energy state to a lower energy state.

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