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CAMBRIDGE A LEVEL PHYSICS - PAPER 4 HOMEWORK
18. ELECTRIC FIELDS
Name:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Date of birth:.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Class:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
School:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Due date:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
GRADE TABLE
Question: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Points: 10 5 8 10 7 8 7 4 8
Score:
Question: 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
Points: 7 9 10 6 9 9 7 5 8
Score:
Question: 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Total
Points: 4 6 9 7 7 10 6 10 196
Score:
at is meant by a line of force in For
Cambridge A Level Physics - Paper 4 Homework
Examiner’s
avitational field, Use
1. (a) State what is meant by a line of force in 10 p

............................................................................................................................
i. a gravitational field,
........................................................................................................................ [1] [1]
lectric field. (tangent to line gives) direction of force on a (small test) mass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
............................................................................................................................
ii. an electric field. [2]
........................................................................................................................ [2]
(tangent to line gives) direction of force on a (small test) charge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [M1]
d metal sphere is isolated in space.
charge is positive
e similarity and one difference between .the
. . . .gravitational
. . . . . . . . . . . .force
. . . . . field
. . . . .and
. . . . .the
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]
orce field around the sphere.
(b) A charged metal sphere is isolated in space. State one similarity and one difference between [3]
: ..........................................................................................................................
the gravitational force field and the electric force field around the sphere.
............................................................................................................................
similarity: e.g. radial fields / lines normal to surface / greater separation of lines with increased
e: ........................................................................................................................
distance from sphere / field strength ∝ 1/(distance to centre of sphere)2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .[B1]
............................................................................................................................
(allow any sensible answer)
............................................................................................................................
difference: e.g. gravitational force (always) towards sphere [3] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
electricbyforce
zontal metal plates are separated direction
a distance depends
of 1.8 cm in a on sign of charge on sphere . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
vacuum.
al difference of 270 V is maintained
(allow anybetween the comparison)
sensible plates, as shown in Fig. 3.1.
(c) Two horizontal metal plates are separated by a distance [4]

0V of 1.8 cm in a vacuum.
proton
A potential difference of 270 V is maintained between
1.8 cm the plates, as shown in Fig. 1.1.
A proton is in the space between the plates.
+270 V
Explain quantitatively why, when predicting the motion
Fig. 1.1 of the proton between the plates, the gravitational field
is not taken into consideration.
−27
gravitational 3.1 = 1.67 × 10
force
Fig. × 9.81 = 1.6 × 10−26 N . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .[A1]
uantitatively why, when predicting the motion of the proton between the plates,
is in thefield
ational space between
taken the
electric
is not plates.
force
into = 1.6 × 10−19 × 270/(1.8 × 10−2 ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
consideration.
= 2.4 × 10−15 N . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]
electric force very much greater than gravitational force . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
[4]
9702/43/O/N/12
Page 1 of 31 [Turn over

5 A positively charged solid metal sphere is isolated in space. The electric field strength E is
measured for different distances x from the centre of the sphere. The variation with x of the field
strength E is shown in Fig. 5.1.
2. A positively charged solid metal sphere is isolated in space. The electric field strength E is measured
100
for different distances x from the centre of the sphere. The variation with x of the field strength E
is shown in Fig. 2.1. 5p
80
E / N C–1
60
40
20
0
0 5 10 15 20 25
x / cm
Fig. 2.1
Fig.cm,
(a) Suggest why, for values of x less than 4.0 5.1the electric field strength is zero. [2]
(a) Suggest
charges why, for
in metal dovalues of x less
not move . . . . than
. . . . .4.0
. . .cm,
. . . .the
. . . .electric
. . . . . . .field
. . . .strength
. . . . . . . . is
. . zero.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
...................................................................................................................................................
no (resultant) force on charges so no (electric) field (allow 1/2 for "no field inside sphere") [B1]
...................................................................................................................................................
(b) A point charge of +8.5 × 10−9 C moves from a point of x = 7.0 cm to a point of x = 5.0 cm. [3]
Use .............................................................................................................................................
Fig. 2.1 to estimate the change in electric potential energy of this point charge. [2]
(b) Aaverage
point charge of +8.5 × −9
field strength =10
(28 C movesNfrom
+ 54)/2 C−1 a (allow
point where
range x54= ± 7.01)cm. .to . . .a. .point
. . . . . .where
. . . . . [C1]
x = 5.0 cm.
Use Fig. 5.1
average to estimate
force = 8.5 × the
10−9change in electric
(28 + 54)/2 potential
= 3.49 × 10−7 energy
N . . of
. . .this
. . . point
. . . . . .charge.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
change in PE = 3.49 × 10−7 × 2.0 × 10−2 = 7.0 × 10−9 J (allow 1 s.f.) . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]
or (for a point charge) V = Ex . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (C1)
∆V = (54 × 5.0 × 10−2 ) − (28 × 7.0 × 10−2 ) (allow range 54 ± 1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (C1)
change in PE = 8.5 × 10−9 × (2.70 − 1.96) = 6.3 × 10−9 J (allow 1 s.f.) . . . . . . . . . . (A1)
or ∆V is area under curve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(C1)
∆V = 0.74 V (allow range 0.70 to 0.84) . . . .=. . .......................................................

energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .J. . [3]
. . (C1)
© UCLES 2015
change in PE = 8.5 × 10−9 × 0.74 = 6.3 × 10−9 J
9702/43/O/N/15
(allow 1 s.f.) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (A1)

15 cm
12
what is meant
3. by electric field strength. 8p
Fig. 5.1
(a) State what is meant by electric field strength. [2]
...........................................................................................................................................
Point P lies on the line joining the charges and is a distance x from charge A.
force per unit charge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .[B1]
...........................................................................................................................................
The variation with distance x of the electric field strength E at point P is shown in
(force on) positive charge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
..................................................................................................................................... [2]
(b) Two point charges A and B are 10
point charges A and B are situated a distance
situated a distance 15 cm apart in a 15 cm apart in a vacuum, as illustrated in
5.1. 8
vacuum, as illustrated in Fig. 3.1.
E / 103 N C –1
A P B 6
x 4
15 cm 2
Fig. 3.1 0
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14
Fig. 5.1 x / cm
Point P lies on the line joining the –2
P lies on the line charges
joining the charges
and is a and x fromx from charge A.
is a distance
distance
charge A. –4
variation with distance x of the electric field strength E at point P is shown in Fig. 5.2.
The variation with distance x of the
–6
electric
10 field strength E at point P
is shown in Fig. 3.2. Fig. 3.2
Fig. 5.2
8 reference to the direction of the electric field, state and explain whether the charges A [2]
i. By
E / 103 N C –1 and B have the same, or opposite, signs.
6
field changes direction (between A and B)/field is zero at a point (between A and B) [M1]
4
so charges have same sign . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]
2
ii. State why, although charge A is a point charge, the electric field strength between x = 3 cm [1]
0
and
0 x= 2 7 cm
4 does
6 not8obey10an inverse-square
12 14 law.
x / cm
–2
Any one from: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
© UCLES 2019 9702/43/M/J/19
◦ field is (also) influenced by charge B
–4
◦ charge A is not isolated/is not the only charge present
–6 ◦ field is due to two/both charges
◦ field is the resultant of two fields
Fig. 5.2
magnitude of charge A
iii. Use Fig. 3.2 to determine the ratio: . [3]
magnitude of charge B
E = Q/(4πε0 ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
at x = 10 cm, EA = EB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
QA /102 = QB /52 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . QA /QB = 4.0 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]
Page 3 of 31 9702/43/M/J/19 [Turn over

12
5
Cambridge
TwoA Level
small solidPhysics - Paper
metal spheres 4 BHomework
A and have equal radii and are in a vacuum. Their cen
15 cm apart.
Sphere
4. Two small solid metal spheres A and A has charge
B have +3.0 pC
equal and
radii sphere
and are B
inhas charge +12
a vacuum. pC. The
Their arrangement
centres are is illust
Fig. 5.1.
15 cm apart. 10 p
sphere A sphere B
Sphere A has charge +3.0 pC and P + 12 pC
+ 3.0 pC
sphere B has charge +12 pC. The
arrangement is illustrated in Fig. 4.1.
5.0 cm
Point P lies on the line joining the
15 cm
centres of the spheres and is a distance
of 5.0 cm from the centre of sphere A. Fig. 4.1
Fig. 5.1
(a) Suggest why the electric field strength in both spheres is zero. [2]
Point P lies on the line joining the centres of the spheres and is a distance of 5.0 cm f
in an electric field, charges (in a conductor) would move . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
centre of sphere A.
no movement of charge so zero field strength or charge moves until F = 0/E = 0 . . . . [B1]
(a) Suggest why the electric field strength in both spheres is zero.
or
.......................................................................................................................................
charges in metal do not move . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (B1)
.......................................................................................................................................
no (resultant) force on charges so no (electric) field . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (B1)
.......................................................................................................................................
(b) strength
(b) Show that the electric field Show thatisthe electric
zero field strength
at point is zero
P. Explain yourat working.
point P. Explain your working. [3]
at P, EA = (3.0 × 10−12 )/[4πε0 (5.0 × 10−2 )2 ] (= 10.79 N C−1 ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [M1]
at P, EB = (12 × 10−12 )/[4πε0 (10 × 10−2 )2 ] (= 10.79 N C−1 ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [M1]
or (3.0 × 10−12 )/[4πε0 (5.0 × 10−2 )2 ] − (12 × 10−12 )/[4πε0 (10 × 10−2 )2 ] = 0 . . . . . . . . . . . . (M2)
or (3.0 × 10−12 )/[4πε0 (5.0 × 10−2 )2 ] = (12 × 10−12 )/[4πε0 (10 × 10−2 )2 ] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(M2)
fields due to charged spheres are (equal and) opposite in direction, so E = 0 . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]
(c) Calculate the electric potential at point P. [2]
potential = 8.99 × 109 (3.0 × 10−12 )/(5.0 × 10−2 ) + (12 × 10−12 )/(10 × 10−2 ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
(c) Calculate the electric potential at point P.
= 1.62 V . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .[A1]
(d) A silver-107 nucleus ( 107

47Ag) has speed v when it is a long distance from point P. Use your [3]
answer in (c) to calculate the minimum value of v such that the nucleus can reach point P.
mv 2 /2 = qV
EK = 107 × 1.66 × 10−27 × v 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
qV = 47 × 1.60 × 10−19 × 1.62 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
v 2 = 1.37 × 108 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . v = 1.2 × 104 melectric

s−1 . .potential
........=. . ...................................................
. . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]
© UCLES 2016 9702/43/O/N/16

..........................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................... [2]
5. (b) A charged particle is accelerated from rest in a vacuum through a potential difference V. 7p
Show that the final speed v of the particle is given by the expression
(a) Define electric potential at a point. [2]
2Vq
v =. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [M1]
work done moving unit positive charge
m
from infinity q the point) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]
where (to is the ratio of the charge to the mass (the specific charge) of the particle.
m
(b) A charged particle is accelerated from rest in a vacuum through a potential difference V . [2]
q
Show that the final speed v of the particle is given by the expression v = 2V q/m, where q/m
is the specific charge of the particle.
(gain in) kinetic energy = change in potential energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]

q
mv 2 /2 = qV leading to v = 2V q/m . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
[2]
(c) A particle
(c) A particle with specific
with specific chargecharge
+9.58+9.58 C 7kg
× 10×7 10 kg–1
C−1 is ismoving
movingin
in aa vacuum
vacuum towards
towardsa afixed
fixed metal [3]
metal sphere, as illustrated
sphere, as illustrated in Fig. 5.1. in Fig. 4.1.
metal sphere
2.5 × 105 m s–1 potential +470 V
particle
specific charge
+9.58 × 107 C kg–1
Fig. 5.1
Fig. 4.1
The speed
The initial initial speed
of the ofparticle
the particle
is 2.5is×2.5 10s5−1
105× m –1 when it is a long distance from the
m swhen it is a long distance from the sphere.
sphere.
The sphere
The sphere is positively
is positively chargedcharged
and and
has has a potential
a potential ofof+470
+470V.
V.
Use the Use

expression in (b) to
the expression determine
in (b) whether
to determine thethe
whether particle will
particle willreach
reachthe
the surface of the
surface of the sphere.
sphere.
(2.5 × 105 )2 = 2 × V × 9.58 × 107 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
V = 330 V . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [M1]
this is less than 470 V and so ’no’ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]
or v = (2 × 470 × 9.58 × 107 ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (C1)
v = 3.0 × 105 m s−1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (M1)
this is greater than 2.5 × 105 m s−1 and so ’no’ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [3]

. . . . . . (A1)
© UCLES 2013 9702/41/M/J/13 [Turn over
5 2
or (2.5 × 10 ) = 2 × 470 × (q/m) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (C1)
(q/m) = 6.6 × 107 C kg−1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (M1)
this is less than 9.58 × 107 C kg−1 and so ’no’ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (A1)

11
6. 5 (a) State what is meant by an electric field. 8p

(a) State what is meant by electric field. [1]
...................................................................................................................................................
region where charge experiences an (electric) force . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
.............................................................................................................................................. [1]
(b) (b)
An An isolated
isolated solid
solid metalsphere
metal spherehas
hasradius
radius R.
R. The
Thecharge
chargeononthe sphere
the is +Q
sphere andand
is +Q the electric
the electric [4]
field strength at its surface is
field strength at its surface is E. E.
On On Fig.6.1,
Fig. 5.1,draw
draw a line
linetotoshow
showthethe
variation of the
variation of electric field strength
the electric with distance
field strength with xdistance
from x
the centre of the solid sphere for values of x from x = 0 to x
from the centre of the solid sphere for values of x from x = 0 to x = 3R.= 3R.
1.00E
0.75E
electric
field
strength
0.50E
0.25E
0
0 R 2R 3R
distance x
Fig. 6.1
Fig. 5.1
graph: field strength zero from x = 0 to x = R . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .[4]
. . [B1]
curve with negative gradient, decreasing from x = R to x = 3R . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]

(c) The sphere in (b) has radius R = 0.26 m.
lineElectrical
passes through field strength E at x = R . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
breakdown (a spark) occurs when the electric field strength at the surface of the
sphere exceeds 2.0 × 106 V m–1.
line passes through field strength 0.25E at x = 2R and field strength 0.11E at x = 3R . . [B1]
Determine the maximum charge that can be stored on the sphere before electrical breakdown
(c) Theoccurs.
sphere in (b) has radius R = 0.26 m. [3]
Electrical breakdown (a spark) occurs when the electric field strength at the surface of the
sphere exceeds 2.0 × 106 V m−1 . Determine the maximum charge that can be stored on the
sphere before electrical breakdown occurs.
field strength = q/4πε0 x2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
2.0 × 106 = q/(4 × π × 8.85 × 10−12 × 0.262 ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
q = 1.5 × 10−5 C . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]
charge = ........................................................ C [3]

[Total: 8]
Page© UCLES
6 of 31
2019 9702/42/F/M/19 [Turn
[Turn overover
(ii) State the relationship between electric potential and electric field strengt
..................................................................................................................
7. ..................................................................................................................
7p
..................................................................................................................
(a) State the relationship between electric potential and electric field strength at a point. [2]
(b) . .Two
field strength = potential gradient . . . .parallel
. . . . . . .metal
. . . . . plates
. . . . . .A. .and
...B
. . are
. . . .situated
. . . . . . .a. .distance
. . . . . . . .1.2 cm apart in a vac
. .[M1]
in Fig. 6.1.
’−’ sign included or directions discussed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]
–75 V plate B
(b) Two parallel metal plates A and B are
situated a distance 1.2 cm apart in a
vacuum, as shown in Fig. 7.1.
helium nucleus
Plate A is earthed and plate B is at a 1.2 cm
potential of −75 V.
A helium nucleus is situated between the x

plates, a distance x from plate A.
Initially, the helium nucleus is at rest on 0V plate A

plate A where x = 0.
Fig. 7.1
Fig. 6.1
i. The helium nucleus is free to move between the plates. By considering energy changes of [2]
the helium nucleus, explain whyPlate
the Aspeed
is earthed and plate
at which B is at aplate
it reaches potential
B isof independent
–75 V. of
the separation of the plates. A helium nucleus is situated between the plates, a distance x from plate A.
gain in kinetic energy (= loss in potential
Initially, energy)
the helium nucleus=ischarge × plate
at rest on p.d. A where x = 0.
or qV = mv 2 /2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .[M1]
(i)
The helium nucleus is free to move between the plates. By considering e
of the helium
so v is independent of separation (because nucleus,
separation notexplain why the speed
in expressions) . . .at
. . which
. . . . . .it[A1]
reaches plate B
of the separation of the plates.
ii. As the helium nucleus ( 42He) moves from

..................................................................................................................
plate A towards plate B, its distance x from plate [3]
A increases.
..................................................................................................................
Calculate the speed of the nucleus after it has moved a distance x = 0.40 cm from plate A.
..................................................................................................................
(at x = 0.40 cm), potential = (−)75 × 0.40/1.2 (= (−)25 V) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
..................................................................................................................
mv 2 /2 = qV . . . . . . 4 × 1.66 × 10−27 /2 × v 2 = 2 × 1.60 × 10−19 × 25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
2
or a = V q/dm and ©vUCLES
= 2as
2018 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9702/41/O/N/18
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (C1)
v 2 = (2 × 75 × 2 × 1.60 × 10−19 × 0.40 × 10−2 )/(1.2 × 10−2 × 4 × 1.66 × 10−27 ) .(C1)
v = 4.9 × 104 m s−1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]

.......................................................................................................................................[2]
(b) Two similar solid metal spheres A and B, each of radius R, are situated in a vacuum such that
the separation of their centres is D, as shown in Fig. 6.1.
8. Two similar solid metal spheres A and B, each of radius R, are situated in a vacuum such that the [4]
separation of their centres is D, as shown in Fig. 8.1.
D 4p
x
sphere A sphere B
charge +Q R Fig. 8.1 R charge +q
The charge +Q on sphere A is larger than the charge +q on sphere B.

Fig.17
6.1
A movable point P is located on the line joining the centres of the two spheres. The point P is a
+qx on B. potential V between the
distance x On Fig. 6.2, sketch a graphAto
is show
larger the
thanvariation
8.2, with of the electric
The charge +Q on sphere the charge sphere
from the centre of sphere A. On Fig. sketch a graph to show the variation with x
centres of the two spheres.
A movable point P is located on the line joining the centres of the two spheres.
of the electric potential V between the centres of the two spheres.
The point P is a distance x from the centre of sphere A.
0
© UCLES 2018 0 9702/42/O/N/18 D x
surface of surface of
sphere A sphere B
Fig. 8.2
Fig. 6.2
horizontal straight lines, at non-zero potential, within the spheres . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
[4]
magnitude of potential greater at surface of sphere A than at surface of sphere B . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
concave curve between A and B, with a minimum nearer to B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .[Total:
. . . . . .8]. . . [B1]
lines show V positive all the way from 0 to D . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]

10
4 Two small charged Cambridge A Level

metal spheres A and Physics
B are - Paper
10situated 4 Homework
in a vacuum. The distance between For
the centres of the spheres is 12.0 cm, as shown in Fig. 4.1. Examiner’s
9.4 Two
Two smallcharged
small chargedmetal
metalspheres
spheresAAandand B
B are
are situated
situated inina avacuum.
vacuum.TheThe
distance between
distance between Use
the
For
the centres of the spheres is 12.0 cm, as shown in Fig. 4.1. Examiner’s
centres of the spheres is 12.0 cm, as shown in Fig. 9.1. Use 8p
12.0 cm
sphere A P sphere B
12.0 cm
sphere A P sphere B
x
x
Fig. 4.1 (not to scale)
Fig. 9.1
The charge on each sphere may be Fig.assumed
4.1 (not toto scale)
be a point charge at the centre of the
sphere.
TheThecharge
Point P isona on
charge each sphere
each
movable may
sphere
point be lies
may
that assumed
beon thetoline
assumed be to
a point charge
be a the
joining point at the
charge
centres centre
of at
thethe of theand
centre
spheres sphere.
is Point
of the
P is a movable
sphere.
distance x frompoint
the that liesof on
centre the line
sphere A. joining the centres of the spheres and is distance x from
thePoint
centre of
The variationsphere
P is a movable A. The variation
pointxthat
with distance with
lieselectric
of the on thedistance x of the
linestrength
field joining Etheatelectric
point P field
centres strength
of shown
is the spheres
in Fig. at point
E4.2.
and is P is
shown in Fig.
distance 9.2.the centre of sphere A.
x from
The variation with distance x of the electric field strength E at point P is shown in Fig. 4.2.
150
150
E / 106 N C–1
E / 106 N C–1
100
100
50
50
0
0 2 4 6 8 10 12
x / cm
0
0 2 4 6 8 10 12
x / cm
–50
–50
–100
–100
–150
–150
–200
Fig. 9.2
–200 Fig. 4.2
Fig. 4.2
© UCLES 2011 9702/42/O/N/11

(a) State the evidence provided by Fig. 9.2 for the statements that
i. the spheres are conductors, [1]
zero field (strength) inside spheres . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
ii. the charges on the spheres are either both positive or both negative. [2]
field strength is zero or the fields are in opposite directions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [M1]
at a point between the spheres . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]
(b) i. State the relation between electric field strength E and potential gradient at a point. [1]
field strength is (−) potential gradient (not V /x) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
ii. Use Fig. 9.2 to state and explain the distance x at which the rate of change of potential
with distance is
1. maximum, [2]
field strength has maximum value . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
at x = 11.4 cm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
2. minimum. [2]
field strength is zero . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
at x = 7.9 cm (allow6 ±0.3

(a)cm)
For any at 0outside
or point to 1.4acm
spherical 11.4 cm tothe12charge
or conductor, cm . .on
. . the
[B1]sphere may
act as a point charge at its centre. By reference to electric field lines, explain
........................................................................................................................
10. 7p
........................................................................................................................
(a) For any point outside a spherical conductor, the charge on the sphere may be considered to act [2]
........................................................................................................................
as a point charge at its centre. By reference to electric field lines, explain this.
........................................................................................................................
electric field lines are radial/normal to surface (of sphere) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
(b) An
electric field lines appear to originate from centre
isolated (of sphere)
spherical . . . .has
conductor . . . . . . q,
. . . .charge . . .as
. . shown
. . . . . . .in. .Fig.
[B1]6.1.
(b) An isolated spherical conductor has charge q, as

shown in Fig. 10.1. sphere, x
charge q
Point P is a movable point that, at any one time,
is a distance x from the centre of the sphere.
P
The variation with distance x of the electric
potential V at point P due to the charge on the Fig.Fig.
10.1
sphere is shown in Fig. 10.2. 6.1
Point P is a movable point that, at any one time, is a distance x from the cen
The variation with distance x of the electric potential V at point P due to t

Page 10 of 31 sphere is shown in Fig. 6.2. [Turn over
The variation with distance x of the electric potential V at point P due to the charge on the
sphere is shown in Fig. 6.2.
14
12
3
V / 10 V
10
0
0 2 4 6 8 10 12
x / cm
Fig. 10.2
Fig. 6.2
Use Fig. 10.2 to determine
i. the electric field strength E at point P where x = 6.0 cm, [3]
tangent drawn at x = 6.0 cm and gradient calculation attempted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
E = 9.0 × 104 N C−1 (1 mark if in range ±1.2; 2 marks if in range ±0.6) . . . . . . . [A2]
© UCLES 2017 9702/42/O/N/17
or correct pair of values of V and x read from curved part of graph and
substituted into V = q/(4πε0 x) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (C1)
to give q = 3.6 × 10−8 C . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (C1)
(then E = q/4πε0 x2 and x = 6 cm gives) E = 9.0 × 104 N C−1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (A1)
or (E = q/4πε0 x2 and V = q/(4πε0 x) and so) E = V /x . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(C1)
giving E = 5.4 × 103 /0.060 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (C1)
= 9.0 × 104 N C−1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (A1)
ii. the radius R of the sphere. Explain your answer. [2]
(R =) 2.5 cm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
potential inside a conductor is constant

or field strength inside a conductor zero (so gradient is zero) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]

5 A charged particle P is situated in a vacuum at a distance x from the centre o
Cambridge A Level Physics
sphere - Paper
of radius 4 Homework
r, as illustrated in Fig. 5.1.
11. A charged particle P is situated in a vacuum at a distance x P

from the centre of a charged conducting sphere of radius r, as r
illustrated in Fig. 11.1.
x
9p
For the particle P outside the conducting sphere, the charge on
the sphere may be assumed to be a point charge at its centre. Fig. 11.1
Fig. 5.1
(a) i. State Coulomb’s law. [2]
For of
force proportional to the product thethe
particle P outside
two/point the conducting
charges . . . . . . . . . sphere,
. . . . . . . .the
. . . charge on the sphere
. . . . . . [B1]
a point charge at its centre.
and inversely proportional to the square of their separation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
(a) (i) State Coulomb’s law.
ii. The sphere and the particle P are both .......................................................................................................

charged positively.
1. State the direction of the force acting on particle P. [1]
.......................................................................................................
force radially away from sphere/to right/to east . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
.......................................................................................................
2. State the position of particle P for the force to be maximum. [1]
(ii) The sphere and the particle P are both charged positively.
(maximum) at/on surface of sphere or x = r . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
1. State the direction of the force acting on particle P.
force on particle P at x = r
3. Determine the ratio: . [2]
.......................................................................................................
force on particle P at x = 4r
2. State the position of particle P for the force to be maximum.
F ∝ 1/x2 or F = q1 q2 /4πε0 x2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
.......................................................................................................
ratio = 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]
3. Determine the ratio
−7
(b) When the charge on the sphere is 6.0 × 10 C, the electric field strength at the surface
force on particle P at x = of
r the [3]
6 −1
sphere is 1.5×10 V m . Electrical breakdown (a spark) occurs when .
force the electricPfield
on particle at xstrength
= 4r
6 −1
at the surface of the sphere exceeds 2.0 × 10 V m .
Determine the additional charge that may be added to the sphere before breakdown occurs.
E∝q or E = q/4πε0 x2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
maximum charge = (2.0/1.5) × 6.0 × 10−7 = 8.0 × 10−7 C . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
additional charge = 2.0 × 10−7 C . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .[A1]
12. 10 p
ratio = ...........................
(a) State an expression for the electric field strength E at a distance r from a point charge Q in a [2]
vacuum. State the name of any other symbol used.
E = Q/4πε0 r2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [M1]
ε0 is permittivity (of free space) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]

© UCLES 2015 9702/42/O/N/15

............................................................................................................................................. [2]
............................................................................................................................................. [2]
(b) Two point Cambridge
charges A and A B areLevelsituated
Physicsa distance- Paper10.0 cm 4 apart
Homeworkin a vacuum, as illustrated in
Fig. 6.1.
(b) Two point charges A and B are situated a distance 10.0 cm apart in a vacuum, as illustrated in
Fig. 6.1.
(b) Two point charges A and B are situated 10.0 cm apart in a vacuum, as illustrated in Fig. 12.1.
charge A charge B
charge A charge B
P
P
x
x
10.0 cm
10.0 cm
Fig.12.1
Fig. 6.1
Fig. 6.1
A point
A point P lies
P lies on on
thethe linejoining
line joining the
the charges
charges AAand
andB.B.
Point P isPa is
Point distance x from
a distance x A.
from A.
A point P lies on the line joining the charges A and B. Point P is a distance x from A.
The variation
The variation withwith
distance x xofofthe
distance theelectric
electric field strengthE E
fieldstrength at point P is P
at point shown in Fig.in6.2.
is shown Fig. 12.2.
2.5
2.5
E / 10–2 N C–1
E / 10–2 N C–1
2.0
2.0
1.5
1.5
1.0
0 2 4 6 8 10
1.0
0 2 4 6 x / cm 8 10
x / cm
Fig. 12.2
Fig. 6.2
Fig. 6.2
State and explain whether the charges A and B:
i. have the same, or opposite, signs [2]
field does not change direction/field does not become zero . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [M1]
© UCLES 2019
so (charges have) opposite (sign) 9702/41/O/N/19
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]
© UCLES 2019 9702/41/O/N/19
ii. have the same, or different, magnitudes. [2]
minimum is at the midpoint (between the charges) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [M1]
so (magnitudes are the) same . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .[A1]
(c) An electron is situated at point P. [4]

Without calculation, state and explain the variation in the magnitude of the acceleration of

the electron as it moves from the position where x = 3 cm to the position where x = 7 cm.
force = field strength × charge and force = mass × acceleration

or acceleration is proportional to field strength . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
(from x = 3.0 cm) to x = 5.0 cm: acceleration decreases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
at x = 5.0 cm: acceleration is a minimum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]

15
from x = 5.0 cm (to x = 7.0 cm): acceleration increases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
6 A solid metal sphere of radius R is isolated in space. The sphere is positively charg
electric potential at its surface is VS. The electric field strength at the surface is ES.
(a) On the axes of Fig. 6.1, show the variation of the electric potential with distan
centre of the sphere for values of x from x = 0 to x = 3R.
13. A solid metal sphere of radius R is isolated in space. The sphere is positively charged so that the
electric potential at its surface is VS . The electric field strength
1.0 Vs at the surface is ES . 6p
0.8 Vs potential with distance x from the [3]

(a) On the axes of Fig. 13.1, show the variation of the electric
centre of the sphere for values of x from x =potential
0 to x = 3R.
0.6 Vs
from x = 0 to x = R, potential is constant at VS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
0.4 V
smooth curve through (R, VS ) and (2R, 0.5VS ) . . . . . . . . . . .s. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .[B1]
smooth curve continues to (3R, 0.33VS ) . . . . . . . . . . . . .0.2

. . .V. s. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
0
(b) On the axes of Fig. 13.2, show the variation of the electric0field strength
R with distance
2R x from
3R [3]
the centre of the sphere for values of x from x = 0 to x = 3R. distance x
15
fromRxis=isolated
metal sphere of radius 0 to x =
in R, fieldThe
space. strength
sphere is
is zero . . . . charged
positively . . . . . . . . .so
. . that
. . . . the
. . . . .Fig.
. . . .6.1
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
potential at its surface is VS. The electric field strength at the surface is ES.
smooth curve through (R, E) and (2R, 0.25E) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
the axes of Fig. 6.1, show the variation of the electric
(b) Onpotential
the axeswith distance
of Fig. 6.2, showx fromthe the variation of the electric field strength with d
smooth curve continues to (3R, 0.11E) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
tre of the sphere for values of x from x = 0 to x = 3R. the centre of the sphere for values of x from x = 0 to x = 3R.
1.0 Vs 1.0 Es
0.8 Vs 0.8 Es
potential field
0.6 Vs strength 0.6 Es
0.4 Vs 0.4 Es
0.2 Vs 0.2 Es
0 0
0 R 2R 3R 0 R 2R 3R
distance x distance x
Fig. 13.1 Fig. 13.2

Fig. 6.1 Fig. 6.2
[3]
the axes of Fig. 6.2, show the variation of the electric field strength with distance x from
Page 14 of 31
centre of the sphere for values of x from x = 0 to x = 3R.
[Turn over
...................................................................................................................................................
14
...................................................................................................................................................
6 (a) State Coulomb’s law.
14. ...............................................................................................................................................[2] 9p
...............................................................................................................................
(a) State Coulomb’s law. [2]
(b) Two charged metal spheres A and B are situated in a vacuum, as illustrated in Fig. 6.1.
...............................................................................................................................
force ∝ product of charges and inversely ∝ square of the separation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [M1]
...............................................................................................................................
sphere A
reference to point charges . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6.0
. . . cm
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .[A1]
(b) Two charged metal spheres A and B are situated in a vacuum, as illustrated in F
(b) Two charged metal spheres A and B are
P
situated in a vacuum, as illustrated
x in sphere A
sphere B 6.0 cm
Fig. 14.1.
The shortest distance between the surfaces of
Fig. 6.1 P
the spheres is 6.0 cm.
x sphere B
The shortest
A movable pointdistance between
P lies along thetheline
surfaces of the spheres is 6.0 cm.
joining
the centres of the two spheres, a distance x Fig. 14.1
A movable point P lies along the line joining the centres of the two spheres, a distance x from
from the
the surface
surfaceofofsphere
sphere Fig. 6.1
A. A.
The shortest distance between the surfaces of the spheres is 6.0 cm.
The variation
The variation with
with distancexx of
distance of the
the electric
electricfield strength
field E atE
strength point P is shown
at point P is in Fig. 6.2.
shown in Fig. 14.2.
A movable point P lies along the line joining the centres of the two spheres, a dis
10 the surface of sphere A.
E / 103 V m–1 The variation with distance x of the electric field strength E at point P is shown in
5 10
E / 103 V m–1
0 5
0 1 2 3 4 5 6
x / cm
–5 0
0 1 2 3 4 5
–10 –5
–15
–10
Fig. 14.2
Fig. 6.2
i. Use Fig. 14.2 to explain whether the two spheres have charges of the same, or opposite, [2]
sign. –15
© UCLES 2017 9702/42/M/J/17
(near to each sphere,) fields are in opposite directions Fig. 6.2
or point (between spheres) where fields are equal and opposite
or point (between spheres) where field strength is zero . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [M1]
© UCLES 2017 9702/42/M/J/17

so same (sign of charge) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]
ii. A proton is at point P where x = 5.0 cm. [3]

Use data from Fig. 14.2 to determine the acceleration of the proton.
(at x = 5.0 cm,) E = 3.0 × 103 V m−1 and a = qE/m . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
E = (1.60 × 10−19 × 3.0 × 103 )/(1.67 × 10−27 ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
= 2.9 × 1011 m s−2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]
(c) Use data from Fig. 14.2 to state the value of x at which the rate of change of electric potential [2]
is maximum. Give the reason for the value you have chosen.
field strength or E is potential gradient

or field strength is rate of change of (electric) potential . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [M1]
(field strength) maximum at x = 6 cm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]
12
15. (a) State one similarity and one difference between the electric field lines and the gravitational
6 (a) State one similarity and one difference between the electric field lines and the gravitational
field lines around an isolated positively charged metal sphere. 9p
field lines around an isolated positively charged metal sphere.
similarity:
i. similarity .................................................................................................................................... [1]
lines are radial / greater separation of lines with increased distance from the sphere [B1]
...................................................................................................................................................
ii. difference
difference:.................................................................................................................................. [1]
...................................................................................................................................................
gravitational lines directed towards sphere and electric lines directed away from sphere [B1]
[2]
(b) (b)
A positive point
A positive pointcharge
charge+Q+Qisispositioned
positioned at
at aa fixed
fixed point
pointX Xand
and
anan identical
identical positive
positive pointpoint
charge is positioned
charge at at
is positioned a fixed
a fixedpoint
point Y, as shown
Y, as shownininFig.
Fig.6.1.15.1.
X A B Y
+Q +Q
2.5 cm 2.5 cm
10.0 cm
Fig. 15.1
Fig. 6.1
The charges are separated in a vacuum by a distance of 10.0 cm.
The charges are separated in a vacuum by a distance of 10.0 cm.
Points A and B are on the line XY. Point A is a distance of 2.5 cm from X and point B is a
Points A and B are on the line XY. Point A is a distance of 2.5 cm from X and
−5 point
−1B is a
distance of 2.5 cm from Y. The electric field strength at point A is 4.1 × –5 10 –1V m .
distance of 2.5 cm from Y. The electric field strength at point A is 4.1 × 10 V m .
(i) Calculate charge +Q.

i. Calculate charge +Q. [3]
E = Q/4πε0 r2 or E = kQ/r2 with k defined/substituted in . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
4.1 × 10−5 = [Q/(4π × 8.85 × 10−12 × 0.0252 )] − [Q/(4π × 8.85 × 10−12 × 0.0752 )] . . . [C1]
Q = 3.2 × 10−18 C . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]
13
ii. On Fig. 15.2, sketch the variation of the electric field strength E with distance d from A [2]
to B,(ii)along the line AB.
On Fig. 6.2, sketch the variation of the electric field strength E with distance d from A
to B, along the line AB.
5
E / 10–5 V m–1
4
0
0 1 2 3 4 5
d / cm
–1
–2
–3
–4
–5
Fig. 15.2
Fig. 6.2
[2]
smooth curve with gradient decreasing starting at (0, 4.1 × 10−5 ) to d-axis at (2.5, 0) [B1]
(iii) A small positive charge is placed at A. The electric field causes this −5
charge to move from
smooth curve with gradient
rest along increasing from (2.5, 0) ending at (5, −4.1 × 10 ) . . . . . . [B1]
the line AB.
iii. A small positive

Describecharge is placed atofA.
the acceleration theThe electric
charge as itfield
moves causes
fromthisA tocharge
B. to move from [2]
rest along the line AB. Describe the acceleration of the charge as it moves from A to B.
...........................................................................................................................................
acceleration decreases (to zero at mid-point) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
...........................................................................................................................................
then acceleration increases in the opposite direction / increasing negative acceleration [B1]
...........................................................................................................................................
.......................................................................................................................................[2]
[Total: 9]
(b) The centres of two charged metal spheres A and B are separated by a distance of 44
sphere A
44.0 cm shown in Fig. 7.1.
spherePhysics
Cambridge A Level B - Paper 4 Homework
P
16. The centres of two charged metal spheres
44.0 cm
A and B are separated by a distance of 44.0 sphere A sphere B
cm, as shown in Fig. 16.1.
x P
A moveable point P lies on the line joining
the centres of the two spheres. Point P
is a distance x from the centre of sphere
Fig. 7.1 (not to scale) x
A. The variation with distance x of the 7p
A moveable electric
point P lies on the line
potential V joining the P
at point centres of theintwo spheres. Point P is a distance
is shown
x from the centre
Fig. of sphere A. The variation with distance x of the electric potential V at Fig.
16.2. point 16.1
P is shown in Fig. 7.2. Fig. 7.1 (not to scale)
2.2 A moveable point P lies on the line joining the centres of the two spheres. Point P is a
x from the centre of sphere A. The variation with distance x of the electric potential V
V / 104V P is shown in Fig. 7.2.
2.2
2.0
V / 104 V (a) Use Fig. 16.2 to state and [1]
explain whether the two
2.0 spheres have charges of the
1.8
same, or opposite, sign.
1.8 potential always same sign

1.6
or potential is always positive

1.6
1.4
so same sign of charge . . [B1]
1.4
1.2
0 10 20 30 40 50
x / cm
Fig. 7.2
Fig. 16.2 1.2
0 10 20 30 40 50
x / cm
18 9702/42/F/M/18
(b) A positively-charged particle is at rest on the surface of sphere A.
Fig. 7.2
The particle moves freely from the surface of sphere A to the surface of sphere B.
© UCLES 2018 9702/42/F/M/18
i. Describe qualitatively the variation, if any, with distance x of the speed of the particle as [4]
it
1. moves from x = 12 cm to x = 25 cm
2. passes through x = 26 cm
3. moves from x = 27 cm to x = 31 cm
4. reaches x = 32 cm

from x = 12 cm to x = 25 cm: speed increases and

from x = 27 cm to x = 31 cm: speed decreases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
(from x = 12 cm to x = 25 cm: speed increases) at decreasing rate or

(from x = 27 cm to x = 31 cm: speed decreases) at increasing rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
at x = 26 cm: speed maximum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .[B1]
at x = 32 cm: speed still decreasing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
ii. The particle has charge 3.2 × 10−19 C and mass 6.6 × 10−27 kg. [2]
Calculate the maximum speed of the particle.
q∆V = mv 2 /2
3.2 × 10−19 × (2.14 − 1.43) × 104 = 6.6 × 10−27 × v 2 /2
v 2 = 6.88 × 1011 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
v = 8.3 × 105 m s−1 (8.30) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]
17. 5p
(a) Define electric field strength. [1]
force per unit positive charge acting on a stationary charge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
(b) An isolated metal sphere is to be used to store charge at high potential. The charge stored may
be assumed to be a point charge at the centre of the sphere. The sphere has a radius of 25 cm.
Electrical breakdown (a spark) occurs in the air surrounding the sphere when the electric field
strength at the surface of the sphere exceeds 1.8 × 104 V cm−1 .
i. Show that the maximum charge that can be stored on the sphere is 12.5 µC. [2]
E = Q/4πε0 r2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
Q = 1.8 × 104 × 102 × 4π × 8.85 × 10−12 × (25 × 10−2 )2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [M1]
Q = 1.25 × 10−5 C = 12.5 µC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A0]
ii. Calculate the potential of the sphere for this maximum charge. [2]
V = Q/4πε0 r = (1.25 × 10−5 )/(4π × 8.85 × 10−12 × 25 × 10−2 ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
= 4.5 × 105 V (Do not allow use of V = Er unless explained) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]

1.5 cm 20.0 cm 1.5 cm
11
6 Two solid metal spheres A and B, each of radius 1.5 cm, are situated in a vacuum. The
P B, each of radius 1.5 cm, are situated in a vacuum. Their centres
18. Two solid metal spheres A andare separated by a distance of 20.0 cm, as shown in Fig. 6.1.
are separated by a distance of 20.0 cm, as shown in Fig. 18.1. 8p
sphere A 1.5 cm 20.0 cm 1.5 cm
Both spheres arexpositively charged. sphere B
Point P lies on the line joining the

centres of the two spheres, at a distance P
x from the centre of sphere A.
pheres are positively charged.
The variation with distance x of the sphere A x sphere B
electric field strength E at point P is
lies on the line joining the centres of the two spheres, at a distance x from the centre of
A. shown in Fig. 18.2. Fig. 18.1
riation with distance x of the electric field strength E at point P is shown in Fig. 6.2.
E/ N C–1 Both spheres are positively charged.
50 (a) Use Fig. 18.2 to determine the [3]
Point P lies on the line joining the centres of the two spheres, at a distance x from the
sphere A. ratio
40
magnitude of charge on sphere A
The variation with distance x of the electric field strength E at point P is shown in Fig. 6.
30 magnitude of charge on sphere B
50
20 Explain your working.
40 EA = (−)EB (at x = 11 cm)
10
30 or E = 0 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
0
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 E / N14C–1 16 18 20 QA QB 112
20 = = . . . [C1]
–10 x / cm x 2 (20 − x)2 92
10 or
–20
0 E ∝ Q because r same or
–30 0 2 4 6E = 8Q/4πε
0 and r14same
10 r 2 12 16 (B1)
18 20
–10 x / cm
–40 QA /QB = 48/32 . . . . . . . . . . (C1)
–20
–50 QA /QB or ratio = 1.5 . . . [A1]
–30
Fig. 18.2
Fig. 6.2
–40
(b) The variation with distance x of the electric potential V at point P is shown in Fig. 18.3.
–50
An α-particle is initially at rest on the surface of sphere A.
Fig.spheres.
The α-particle moves along the line joining the centres of the two 6.2
Determine, for the α-particle as it moves between the two spheres,
i. its maximum speed, [3]

9702/42/O/N/16 [Turn over
for max. speed, ∆V = (0.76 − 0.18) V or ∆V = 0.58 V . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
q∆V = mv 2 /2 . . . . . . . . . 2 × (1.60 × 10−19 ) × 0.58 = 4 × 1.66 × 10−27 × v 2 /2 . . . . . . . . . [C1]
© UCLES 2016 9702/42/O/N/16 [

ratio = ...........................................................[3]
e variation with distance
2 x of the electric
7 potential V at point P is shown in Fig. 3 6.3. −1
v = 5.59 × 10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . v = 7.5 × 10 m s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]
V/ V
0.8
0.7
0.6
ii. its speed on reaching the [2]
surface of sphere B.
0.5
∆V = 0.22 V . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
0.4
2 × (1.60 × 10−19 ) × 0.22
0.3 = 4 × 1.66 × 10−27 × v 2 /2
0.2 v 2 = 2.12 × 107

−1
v = 4.6 × 103 m
11 s . . . . . . [A1]
0.1
6 (a) State what is meant by electric field strength.
0
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20
...................................................................................................................
x / cm
Fig. 18.3 ...................................................................................................................
Fig. 6.3
(b) An isolated metal sphere A of radius 26 cm is positively charged. Sp
Fig. 6.1.
19. (a) An isolated metal sphere A of radius 26 cm is [2] charged 4p

positively charged. Sphere A is shown in Fig. 19.1. sphere A 26 cm
Electrical breakdown (a spark) occurs when the
electric field strength at the surface of the sphere
exceeds 2.0 × 104 V m−1 .
Calculate the maximum charge Q that can be
stored on the sphere. Fig. 19.1
Fig. 6.1
E = Q/(4πε0 r2 ) 9702/42/O/N/16
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
Electrical breakdown (a spark) occurs when the electric field strength a
4 V m−7
–1
4
2.0 × 10 = Q/(4π × 8.85 × 10 −12
× 0.26sphere
2
) . . .exceeds
. . . . . . Q2.0 × 10×
= 1.5 10 .C . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]
Calculate the maximum charge Q that can be stored on the sphere.
(b) A second isolated metal sphere B, also with charge +Q, has a radius of 52 cm. [2]
Calculate the additional charge, in terms of Q, that may be stored on this sphere before
electrical breakdown occurs.
charge (= Q[52/26]2 ) = 4Q . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
additional charge = 3Q . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]
Q = ...............................
(c) A second isolated metal sphere B, also with charge +Q, has a radius of 5
illustrated in Fig. 9.1.
20. In an α-particle scattering experiment, α-particles are directed gold film

towards a thin film of gold, as illustrated in Fig. 20.1.
The apparatus is in a vacuum. beam of !-particles
The gold-197 ( 197

79Au) nuclei in the film may be considered to
be fixed point charges.
The α-particles emitted from the source each have an energy 6p
Fig. 20.1
of 4.8 MeV.
Fig. 9.1
(a) Calculate the initial kinetic energy EK , in J, of an α-particle emitted from the source. [1]
The apparatus is in a vacuum.
energy = 4.8 × 1.60 × 10−13 = 7.7 × 10−13 J . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]
The gold-197 ( 197 79 Au) nuclei in the film may be considered to be fixed point
(b) Calculate the distance d of closest approach of an α-particle to a gold nucleus. [4]
The α-particles emitted from the source each have an energy of 4.8 MeV.
EP = Qq/4πε0 d . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .[C1]
Calculate:
Q = 79e and q = 2e . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
7.68 × 10−13 = (79 × 2 × (i)

[1.60the
× 10 −19 kinetic energy E−12
]2/(4π × 8.85 × 10 K, in
initial ×J,
d)of. .an . . . . . . . . . . .emitted
. . . α-particle . . . . . . . . from
[C1] the sourc
d = 4.7 × 10−14 m . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .[A1]
(c) Use your answer in (b) to comment on the possible diameter of a gold nucleus. [1]
(diameter must be) less than/equal to 10−13 m or 10−14 m . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
EK = ...................................
© UCLES 2019 9702/42/O/N/19

16
6 (a) State what is meant by electric

Cambridge potential
A Level at a point.
Physics - Paper 4 Homework
16
...................................................................................................................................................
21. 6 (a) State what is meant by electric potential at a point. 9p
...................................................................................................................................................
(a) State what is meant by electric potential at a point. [2]
...................................................................................................................................................
work...............................................................................................................................................[2]
done per unit charge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
...................................................................................................................................................
(b) Two
(work parallel
done) movingmetalpositive
plates Acharge and B from are held a distance
infinity . . . . . . d. . apart
. . . . . .in. . a. . vacuum,
. . . . . . . . .as
. . .illustrated
. . . . . . . . . .[B1]
...............................................................................................................................................[2]
in Fig. 6.1.
(b) (b)
TwoTwo parallel
parallel metal
metal platesAAand
plates andBBare
are held
held aa distance
distance d
d apart
apart ininaavacuum,
vacuum,asasillustrated
illustrated in [3]
in Fig. 6.1. plate B
Fig. 21.1. +V0
plate B
+V0 x
P
d
x
P
d
0V
plate A
0V
plate A Fig. 6.1
Fig. 21.1
Plate A is earthed and plate B is at a potential of +V0.
Fig. 6.1
Plate A is earthed and plate B is at a potential of +V0 .
Point P is situated in the centre region between the plates at a distance x from plate B.
Plate A is earthed and plate B is at a potential of +V0.
The
Point P potential at point
is situated P iscentre
in the V. region between the plates at a distance x from plate B. The
potential
Point Patispoint P is
situated in V . centre region between the plates at a distance x from plate B.
the
On Fig. 6.2, show the variation with x of the potential V for values of x from x = 0 to
The potential at point P is V.
x = d.21.2, show the variation with x of the potential V for values of x from x = 0 to x = d.
On Fig.
On Fig. 6.2, show the variation with x of the potential V for values of x from x = 0 to
x = d.
+V0
potential
V +V0
potential
V
0
0 d
0 distance x
0 Fig. 21.2 d
Fig. 6.2 distance x
straight line with non-zero gradient from x = 0 to x = d . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .[3]
. . . [B1]
line with gradient of constant sign andFig. 6.2

end-points between which ∆V = V0 and ∆x = d . [B1]
[3]
line passes through (d, 0) and (0, +V0 ) with negative gradient throughout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
© UCLES 2019 9702/42/M/J/19
© UCLES 2019 9702/42/M/J/19

17
(c) Two isolated solid metal spheres M and 17 N, each of radius R, are situated in a vacuum. Their
centres are a distance D apart, as illustrated in Fig. 6.3.
(c) (c)
TwoTwo
isolated solid
isolated metal
solid spheres
metal spheresMMand andN,N, each of radius
radiusR,R,are
aresituated
situated
in ainvacuum.
a vacuum.
TheirTheir [4]
centres
centres are aaredistance
a distance D apart,asasillustrated
D apart, illustrated
D in
in Fig.
Fig.6.3.
21.3.
D
sphere M sphere N
charge +Q charge +Q
sphere M P sphere N
charge +Q R R charge +Q
P
R R
y
Fig.
Fig. 21.3
6.3
EachEach sphere
sphere has has charge
charge +Q.+Q. Fig. 6.3
Each
PointPoint sphere
P lies
P lies has
on on
the charge
line
the +Q. the
linejoining
joining centres ofofthe
the centres thetwo
twospheres,
spheres, and
and is aisdistance
a distance y from
y from the the
centre of sphere
centre of sphere M. M.
Point P lies on the line joining the centres of the two spheres, and is a distance y from the
centre
On Fig.
On of6.4,
21.4,
Fig. sphere
showM.
show the
the variation with
variation with distance
distance of the
y ofy the electric
electric potential
potential at P,point
at point P, forofvalues
for values
of y yfrom
fromyy == 00 to
toyy== D.D.
On Fig. 6.4, show the variation with distance y of the electric potential at point P, for values of
y from y = 0 to y = D.
+
potential
potential
0
0 R (D – R) D
0 y
0 R (D – R) D
y
– Fig. 21.4
Fig. 6.4
[4]
V constant (and non-zero) from 0 → RFig. from (D − R) → D . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
and6.4
[Total:[4]
9]
equal (non-zero) values of (magnitude of) V at R and (D − R) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
[Total: 9]
curve (with a minimum) from R to (D − R) with V always positive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
minimum at mid-point of curve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]

11
22. 7p
ate one similarity and one difference between the fields of force produced by an isolated
oint charge and
(a)by an isolated
State point mass.
one similarity and one difference between the fields of force produced by an isolated [2]
point charge and by an isolated point mass.
milarity: ...................................................................................................................................
similarity: both are radial or both have inverse square (variations) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
................................................................................................................................................
difference: direction is always/only towards the mass
ference: .................................................................................................................................
or direction can be towards or away from charge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
................................................................................................................................................
(b) An isolated solid metal sphere A of radius R has charge +Q, as illustrated [2] in Fig. 22.1. A [2]
point P is distance 2R from the surface of the sphere. Determine an expression that includes
n isolated solid metal sphereRAand
the terms of radius haselectric
Q forRthe chargefield
+Q, strength
as illustrated
E atinpoint
Fig. 5.1.
P.
R
P field strength = Q/4πε0 x2 . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
E = Q/36πε0 R2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]
sphere A
charge +Q 2R
Fig. 22.1
12
A second identical Fig.
solid5.1
metal sphere B is now placed near sphere A.
(c) A second identical solid metal sphere B is now placed near sphere A. The centres of the
spheres
The
point P is distance from are
2Rcentres ofseparated
the the spheres
surface byare
of the asphere.
distance 6R,byasashown
separated in Fig.
distance 6R, 5.2.
as shown in Fig. 22.2.
etermine an expression that includes the terms R and Q for the electric field strength E at
oint P.
R R
P
sphere A sphere B
charge +Q 6R charge –Q
Fig. 22.2
Fig. 5.2
Point P lies midway between spheres A and B. Sphere B has charge −Q. Explain why:
E = ......................................................... [2]
Point P lies midway between spheres A and B.
i. the magnitude of the electric field strength at P is given by the sum of the magnitudes of [1]
Sphere B has
the field charge due
strengths –Q. to each sphere
fields why:
Explain (due to each sphere) are in same direction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
ii.(i) thethe magnitude

electric field of the electric
strength fieldPstrength
at point due to at
theP charged
is given by the spheres
metal sum of the magnitudes
is not, of [2]
in practice,
the field
equal to 2E,strengths
where Edueis to
theeach sphere
electric field strength determined in (b).
...........................................................................................................................................
Page 25 of 31 .....................................................................................................................................
[Turn over [1]
charges on spheres attract/affect each other

or charge distribution on each sphere distorted by the other sphere
or charges on the surface of the spheres move . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
spheres are not point charges (at their centres) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
11
5 α-particle
23. An An α-particle is travellingininaavacuum
is traveling vacuum towards
towards the
thecentre
centreof of
a gold nucleus,
a gold as illustrated
nucleus, in
as illustrated in
Fig. 5.1.
Fig. 23.1. 7p
gold nucleus α-particle
charge 79e energy 7.7 × 10 –13J

Fig. 23.1
The gold nucleus has charge 79e. The goldFig. 5.1 and the α-particle may be assumed to behave
nucleus
as point charges. At a large distance from the gold nucleus, the α-particle has energy 7.7 × 10−13 J.
The gold nucleus has charge 79e.
The α-particle
(a) The gold nucleus andnot
does the α-particle maythe
collide with be gold
assumed to behave
nucleus. Showasthat
pointthe
charges.
radius of the gold nucleus [3]
At a large distance from the gold nucleus, the α-particle has energy 7.7 × 10 –13 J.
−14
must be less than 4.7 × 10 m.
(a) The α-particle does not collide with the gold nucleus. Show that the −13
radius of the gold nucleus
(loss must
in) kinetic energy of α-particle = Qq/4πε0 r
be less than 4.7 × 10–14 m.
or 7.7 × 10 = Qq/4πε0 r . . . . . . . . [C1]
7.7 × 10−13 = 8.99 × 109 × 79 × 2 × (1.60 × 10−19 )2 /r . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .[M1]
r = 4.7 × 10−14 m . . . . . . . r is closest distance of approach so radius less than this . . . . . . . [A1]
(b) Determine the acceleration of the α-particle for a separation of 4.7 × 10−14 m between the [3]
centres of the gold nucleus and of the α-particle.
force = Qq/πε0 r2 = 4u × a . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
8.99 × 109 × 79 × 2 × (1.60 × 10−19 )2 /(4.7 × 10−14 )2 = 4 × 1.66 × 10−27 × a . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]

[3]
27 −2
a = 2.5 × 10 m s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]
(b) Determine the acceleration of the α-particle for a separation of 4.7 × 10–14 m between the
centres of the gold nucleus and of the α-particle.
(c) In an α-particle scattering experiment, the beam of α-particles is incident on a very thin gold [1]
foil. Suggest why the gold foil must be very thin.
so that single interactions between nucleus and α-particle can be studied

or so that multiple deflections with nucleus do not occur . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
acceleration = ................................................. m s–2 [3]
(c) In an α-particle scattering experiment, the beam of α-particles is incident on a very thin gold
Page 26 of 31 foil. [Turn over
Suggest why the gold foil must be very thin.
6 (a) State an expression for the electric field strength E at a distance r from a point charge Q in a
vacuum. 14
State the name of any other symbol
Cambridge A Level used.Physics - Paper 4 Homework
6 (a) State an expression for the electric field strength E at a distance r from a point charge Q in a
vacuum.
24. ...................................................................................................................................................
State the name of any other symbol used. 10 p
(a)...................................................................................................................................................
State an expression for the electric field strength E at a distance r from a point charge Q in a [2]
...................................................................................................................................................
vacuum. State the name of any other symbol used.
............................................................................................................................................. [2]
(E...................................................................................................................................................
=) 1/4πε0 r2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .[M1]
(b) Two point charges A and B are situated a distance 10.0 cm apart in a vacuum, as illustrated in
Fig.............................................................................................................................................. [2]
where ε0 is permittivity (of free space) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]
6.1.
(b) Two
(b) Twopoint
point charges
chargesAA and
and B
B are
aresituated
situateda adistance
distance10.0
10.0cm
cmapart
apartin a
invacuum, as illustrated
a vacuum, in
as illustrated
Fig. 6.1. A
charge charge B
in Fig. 24.1.
P
charge A charge B
x P
x 10.0 cm
10.0 cm
Fig. 6.1
Fig. 24.1
A point P lies on the line joining the charges Fig.A6.1 and B. Point P is a distance x from A.
A point P lies on the line joining the charges A and B. Point P is a distance x from A. The
TheAvariation withdistance
point Pwith
variation lies distance
on x xof
the line ofthe
theelectric
joining electric
the chargesfieldA
field strengthEE at
at point
and B. Point
strength point
P is aP isis shown
distance
P in
in Fig.
x from
shown A. 6.2.
Fig. 24.2.
2.5
E / 10–2 N C–1 2.5
E / 10–2 N2.0
C–1
2.0
1.5
1.5
1.0 x / cm
0 2 4 6 8 10
1.0
0 2 Fig. 424.2 6 8 10
Fig. 6.2 x / cm
State and explain whether the charges A and B:
Fig. 6.2
i. have the same, or opposite, signs [2]
field does not change direction/field does not become zero . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [M1]
© UCLES
Page 2019
27 of 31 9702/43/O/N/19 [Turn over
so (charges have) opposite (sign) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]
ii. have the same, or different, magnitudes. [2]
minimum is at the midpoint (between the charges) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [M1]
so (magnitudes are the) same . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .[A1]
(c) An electron is situated at point P. Without calculation, state and explain the variation in the [4]
magnitude of the acceleration of the electron as it moves from the position where x = 3 cm to
the position where x = 7 cm.
force = field strength × charge and force = mass × acceleration

or acceleration is proportional to field strength . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
(from x = 3.0 cm) to x = 5.0 cm: acceleration decreases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
at x = 5.0 cm: acceleration is a minimum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
from x = 5.0 cm (to x = 7.0 cm): acceleration increases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .[B1]

25. 6p
(a) By reference to electric field lines, explain why, for points outside an isolated spherical conductor, [2]
the charge on the sphere may be considered to act as a point charge at its centre.
lines perpendicular to surface or lines are radial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [M1]
lines appear to come from centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]
(b) Two isolated protons are separated in a vacuum by a distance x.
electric force between the two protons

i. Calculate the ratio: [3]
gravitational force between the two protons
F E = (1.6 × 10−19 )2 /4πε0 x2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
F G = G × (1.67 × 10−27 )2 /x2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
F E/F G = (1.6 × 10−19 )2 × (8.99 × 109 )/[(1.67 × 10−27 )2 × (6.67 × 10−11 )]

= 1.2 (1.24) × 1036 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .[A1]
ii. By reference to your answer in (b)-i., suggest why gravitational forces are not considered [1]
when calculating the force between charged particles.
F E F G . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]

7 A metal sphere of radius R is isolated in space.
R
Cambridge A LevelPoint
Physics - Paperx Pfrom
P is a distance 4 Homework
the centre of the sphere, as illustrated in Fig. 7.1.
26. A metal sphere of radius R is isolated in space.

x R P
Point P is a distance x from the centre of the
sphere, as illustrated in Fig. 26.1.
Fig. 7.1
The variation with distance x of the electric field x
strength E due to the charge on the sphere is 10 p
The variation with distance x of the electric field strength E due to the charge on the sphere is
shown
shown in Fig.7.2.
in Fig. 26.2. Fig. 26.1
Fig. 7.1
20 The variation with distance x of the electric field strength E due to the charge
shown in Fig. 7.2.
20
15
E / 105 V m–1
15
10 E / 105 V m–1
10
5
5
0 x / cm
0 2 4 6 0 8 10 12
0 2 4 6 8 10
Fig. 26.2
Fig. 7.2
Fig. 7.2
(a)
(a) State
Statewhat
whatisismeant
meantbybyelectric field
electric strength.
field strength.
(a) State what is meant by electric field strength. [2]
...................................................................................................................................................
force per unit charge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ........................................................................................................................
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [M1]
(force on) positive charge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .......................................................................................................................

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]
...................................................................................................................................................
.......................................................................................................................
(b) .............................................................................................................................................
i. Use Fig. 26.2 to determine the radius R of the sphere. Explain your working. [2] [2]
no electric field inside a conductor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]
R = 4.5 cm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]
ii. Use Fig. 26.2 to determine the charge Q on the sphere. Explain your working. [3]
© UCLES 2020 9702/42/M/J/20
© UCLES 2020 E = Q/4πε0 x2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9702/42/M/J/20

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
clear correct read-off of a pair of values of E and x . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
e.g. Q = 18 × 105 × 4π × 8.85 × 10−12 × (4.5 × 10−2 )2 = 4.0 (or 4.1) × 10−7 C . . . . . . . [A1]

(c) An α-particle is situated a distance 8.0 cm from the centre of the sphere. Calculate the [3]
acceleration of the α-particle.
At 8.0 cm, E = 5.75 × 105 V m−1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
F = Eq and a = F/m . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]
a = (5.75 × 105 × 2 × 1.6 × 10−19 )/(4 × 1.66 × 10−27 ) = 2.8 × 1013 m s−2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]
Page 31 of 31 End of homework

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CAMBRIDGE A LEVEL PHYSICS - PAPER 4 HOMEWORK

18. ELECTRIC FIELDS

1. (a) State what is meant by a line of force in 10 p

(c) Two horizontal metal plates are separated by a distance [4]

= 2.4 × 10−15 N . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]

electric force very much greater than gravitational force . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]

Page 1 of 31 [Turn over

or (for a point charge) V = Ex . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (C1)

∆V = (54 × 5.0 × 10−2 ) − (28 × 7.0 × 10−2 ) (allow range 54 ± 1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (C1)

or ∆V is area under curve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(C1)

∆V = 0.74 V (allow range 0.70 to 0.84) . . . .=. . .......................................................

Page 2 of 31 [Turn over

QA /102 = QB /52 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . QA /QB = 4.0 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]

Page 3 of 31 9702/43/M/J/19 [Turn over

at P, EA = (3.0 × 10−12 )/[4πε0 (5.0 × 10−2 )2 ] (= 10.79 N C−1 ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [M1]

at P, EB = (12 × 10−12 )/[4πε0 (10 × 10−2 )2 ] (= 10.79 N C−1 ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [M1]

(c) Calculate the electric potential at point P. [2]

(d) A silver-107 nucleus ( 107

qV = 47 × 1.60 × 10−19 × 1.62 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]

v 2 = 1.37 × 108 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . v = 1.2 × 104 melectric

Page 4 of 31 [Turn over

(gain in) kinetic energy = change in potential energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]

Use the Use

this is less than 470 V and so ’no’ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]

or v = (2 × 470 × 9.58 × 107 ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (C1)

v = 3.0 × 105 m s−1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (M1)

this is greater than 2.5 × 105 m s−1 and so ’no’ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [3]

(q/m) = 6.6 × 107 C kg−1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (M1)

this is less than 9.58 × 107 C kg−1 and so ’no’ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (A1)

Page 5 of 31 [Turn over

6. 5 (a) State what is meant by an electric field. 8p

curve with negative gradient, decreasing from x = R to x = 3R . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]

field strength = q/4πε0 x2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]

2.0 × 106 = q/(4 × π × 8.85 × 10−12 × 0.262 ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]

q = 1.5 × 10−5 C . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]

charge = ........................................................ C [3]

A helium nucleus is situated between the x

Initially, the helium nucleus is at rest on 0V plate A

ii. As the helium nucleus ( 42He) moves from

v 2 = (2 × 75 × 2 × 1.60 × 10−19 × 0.40 × 10−2 )/(1.2 × 10−2 × 4 × 1.66 × 10−27 ) .(C1)

v = 4.9 × 104 m s−1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]

Page 7 of 31 [Turn over

The charge +Q on sphere A is larger than the charge +q on sphere B.

Page 8 of 31 [Turn over

4 Two small charged Cambridge A Level

© UCLES 2011 9702/42/O/N/11

i. the spheres are conductors, [1]

zero field (strength) inside spheres . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]

field strength is zero or the fields are in opposite directions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [M1]

at a point between the spheres . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [A1]

field strength is (−) potential gradient (not V /x) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]

field strength has maximum value . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [B1]

field strength is zero . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

at x = 7.9 cm (allow6 ±0.3

(b) An isolated spherical conductor has charge q, as

The variation with distance x of the electric potential V at point P due to t

i. the electric field strength E at point P where x = 6.0 cm, [3]

tangent drawn at x = 6.0 cm and gradient calculation attempted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [C1]