From Ideas to Implementation
HSC Questions
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2001
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2002
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2003
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2004
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2005
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2006
C
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2007
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2008
C
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2009
C
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2010
C
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2011
C
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2006
9.4.1.2.1
Question 27 (4 marks)
J. Plücker was the first to observe cathode rays within gas discharge tubes. He inferred that the rays were
a form of electromagnetic radiation.
9.4.1.3.2
(b) Describe ONE subsequent observation that led other scientists to argue that cathode rays were charged
particles. (2 marks)
2008
Question 12
The debate as to whether cathode rays are charged particles or electromagnetic waves continued for many
years.
9.4.1.2.2
Which observation of cathode rays resolved this debate?
2006
9.4.1.2.3
2009
(A) Cathode rays can turn a paddle wheel.
(B) An electric field can deflect cathode rays.
(C) Cathode rays can penetrate thin metal foil.
(D) Fluorescent screens glow when struck by cathode rays.
Question 12
A charged non-magnetic particle is moving in a magnetic field. What would NOT affect the magnetic
force on the particle?
(A) The strength of the magnetic field
(B) The magnitude of the charge on the particle
(C) The velocity component parallel to the magnetic field direction
(D) The velocity component perpendicular to the magnetic field direction
Question 25 (5 marks)
In the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), the particle beams are steered using magnetic fields, as shown.
9.4.1.2.3
(a) Two particles with the same mass and speed are travelling through the LHC in opposite directions.
What can be deduced about the charge on the particles? (2 marks)
2010
9.4.1.2.3
Question 16
A cathode ray beam strikes the screen at point P, producing a bright spot. The north end of a magnet is
brought towards the beam as shown.
9.4.1.3.2
Towards which point does the bright spot move?
(A) A
(B) B
(C) C
(D) D
2001
9.4.1.2.4
Question 2
At a particular moment, a positively charged particle is moving with velocity v in a magnetic field as
shown.
9.3.1.2.1
At this moment, what is the direction of the force on the positively charged particle?
2007
9.4.1.2.4
(A) To the right
(B) To the left
(C) Into the page
(D) Out of the page
Question 24 (3 marks)
(a) A negatively charged cylinder is fixed in position near a positively charged plate as shown in the
cross-section. Sketch the electric field lines between the cylinder and the plate on the cross-section
diagram.
8.3.2.2.1
(a) A tiny particle of mass 10–30 kg and charge +6 × 10–12 C is released at point Y as shown on the
diagram. The particle initially accelerates at 7.0 × 1021 m s–2.
2009
9.4.1.2.4
Question 15
The diagram shows two parallel plates with opposite charges. P, Q and R represent distances from the
positive plate.
9.4.1.2.6
Which of the following graphs describes the electric field strength, E, between the plates?
2008
9.4.1.2.5
Question 11
An electron, e, moving with a velocity of 8.0 × 106 ms–1 enters a uniform magnetic field, B, of strength
2.1 × 10–2 T as shown.
The electron experiences a force which causes it to move along a circular path.
What is the radius of the path followed by the electron?
(A) 1.1 × 10–3 m
(B) 1.4 × 10–3 m
(C) 1.7 × 10–3 m
(D) 2.2 × 10–3 m
2005
9.4.1.2.5
Question 27 (6 marks)
Bubble chambers are used in conjunction with particle accelerators to photographically record the tracks
of fast-moving charged particles. An intense magnetic field is applied at right angles to the path of the
particles to deflect them according to their charge and momentum.
9.2.4.3.5
9.2.2.3.4
The diagram shows a beam of protons travelling horizontally at 6.0 × 107m s−1 and entering a liquid
hydrogen bubble chamber in a vertical magnetic field of 1.82 T.
Examination of the photograph taken by the camera, as sketched below, shows that the protons were
deflected along a circular path of radius 0.350 metres.
(a) Derive an expression for the momentum of a proton from the forces it experiences in this experiment.
(2 marks)
(b) Calculate the mass of a proton in the bubble chamber. (2 marks)
2009
Question 8
What is an essential requirement for the operation of a step-down transformer?
9.4.1.2.5
2010
9.4.1.2.5
(A) A laminated iron core
(B) A non-conducting core
(C) A magnetic interaction between the primary and secondary coils
(D) An electrical connection between the primary and secondary coils
Question 15
A charged particle, q, enters a uniform magnetic field B at velocity v. The particle follows a circular path
of radius r as shown.
9.4.1.3.3
9.2.2.2.8
If the magnitude of the magnetic field were doubled and the other variables were kept constant, what
would the new radius be?
(A)
𝑟
4
(B)
𝑟
2
(C) 2r
(D) 4r
2011
9.4.1.2.6
Question 19
An electron, e, travelling with a velocity, v, passes through an electric field, E, between two parallel
plates.
9.4.1.2.7
What is the direction of the force that this electric field exerts on the electron?
(A) 
(B) ↖
(C) ↗
(D) 
2006
9.4.1.2.7
Question 14
A potential difference of 50 V is applied between two identical, parallel aluminium plates which are
separated by a distance of 10 mm. In order to double this electric field strength, which new arrangement
should be used?
9.4.1.3.3
2008
9.4.1.2.3
Question 23 (7 marks)
Two parallel metal plates in a magnetic field are separated by a distanced, as shown. An electron enters
the space between the plates.
9.4.1.2.5
9.4.1.2.8
(a) On the diagram indicate with an arrow the direction of the force on the electron due to the magnetic
field. (1 mark)
6
–1
(b) The strength of the magnetic field is B = 0.001T and the electron’s velocity is v = 2× 10 m s .
Calculate the magnitude of the magnetic force on the electron. (2 marks)
(c) If d = 10 mm, calculate the voltage required for the electron to continue on a straight path parallel to
the plates. (2 marks)
(d) How was this experimental set-up used by Thomson to determine the charge/mass ratio of an
electron? (2 marks)
2003
9.4.1.2.8
Question 24 (4 marks)
Outline Thomson’s experiment to measure the charge/mass ratio of an electron.
2010
Question 17
JJ Thomson determined the charge/mass ratio of the electron by constructing a device which contained
9.4.1.2.8
2002
(A) perpendicular magnetic fields.
(B) perpendicular electric fields.
(C) parallel electric and magnetic fields.
(D) perpendicular electric and magnetic fields.
Question 13
The diagram shows the side view of a simple cathode ray tube.
9.4.1.2.9
What is the function of the components labelled R?
2006
(A) To produce cathode rays
(B) To stop cathode rays striking the screen
(C) To deflect the cathode rays vertically
(D) To deflect the cathode rays horizontally
Question 25 (6 marks)
A simplified cathode ray oscilloscope is depicted below.
9.4.1.2.9
(a) Outline the roles of the deflection plates and the electrodes in the electron gun. (2 marks)
2008
9.4.1.2.9
9.4.3.2.8
9.3.4.2.1
9.3.4.2.2
9.3.4.2.6
Question 10
The cathode ray tube and transistor circuits in a conventional television rely on transformers. What
transformation of the 240VAC input voltage do these components require?
2010
9.4.1.2.9
Question 29 (3 marks)
Two sets of plates deflect an electron beam in a cathode ray oscilloscope to produce the trace on the
screen as shown.
9.4.1.2.4
2004
Explain how the deflection plates produce this pattern.
Question 12
Photographs of two gas discharge tubes are shown.
9.4.1.3.1
2005
9.4.1.3.2
What causes the variations of the pattern of striations in the gas discharge tubes?
(A) Different gases in the tubes
(B) Different gas pressures in the tubes
(C) Different voltages applied to the tubes
(D) Different electrode materials used in the tubes
Question 11
The discharge tube shown below contains a rotating paddle wheel that is free to move.
The tube’s electrodes are connected to a high-voltage source.
Which of the following statements about cathode rays does this apparatus provide evidence for?
(A) Cathode rays travel in straight lines.
(B) Cathode rays are particles that have momentum.
(C) Cathode rays can only be produced in vacuum tubes.
(D) Cathode rays are waves of high frequency and short wavelength.
2006
9.4.1.3.2
Question 27 (4 marks)
J. Plücker was the first to observe cathode rays within gas discharge tubes. He inferred that the rays were
a form of electromagnetic radiation.
(a) Describe ONE subsequent observation that led other scientists to argue that cathode rays were charged
particles. (2 marks)
2011
9.4.1.3.2
Question 28 (6 marks)
(a) How could a student test the hypothesis that cathode rays are streams of particles? In your answer
refer to the results that would be observed. (3 marks)
9.4.1.2.9
(b) How is an electron beam produced in an electron gun? (3 marks)
2003
9.4.1.3.2
Question 12
In a first-hand investigation that you performed, you used a discharge tube containing a
Maltese Cross. You would have observed an image similar to the one shown below.
Which of the following statements is a valid conclusion from the observations made in this Maltese Cross
investigation?
2003
9.4.1.3.3
9.2.2.3.4
(A) Cathode rays pass through glass.
(B) Cathode rays pass through metals.
(C) Cathode rays are charged particles.
(D) Cathode rays travel in straight lines.
Question 27 (4 marks)
In a particle accelerator called a synchrotron, magnetic fields are used to control the motion of an electron
so that it follows a circular path of fixed radius.
Describe the changes required in the magnetic field to accelerate an electron to near the speed of light.
Support your answer with appropriate mathematical relationships.
9.2.4.2.9
2007
9.4.1.3.3
Question 13
An electron is moving near a long straight wire. When a current is applied to the wire the electron
experiences a force in the same direction as the current flow in the wire.
9.4.1.2.3
What was the electron’s initial direction of motion?
(A) Parallel to the current direction
(B) Opposite to the current direction
(C) Towards the wire and perpendicular to it
(D) Away from the wire and perpendicular to it
2003
9.4.1.3.3
Question 15
A positively-charged ion travelling at 250 m s-1 is fired between two parallel charged plates, M and N.
There is also a magnetic field present in the region between the two plates. The direction of the magnetic
field is into the page as shown. The ion is travelling perpendicular to both the electric and the magnetic
fields.
The electric field between the plates has a magnitude of 200 V m-1. The magnetic field is adjusted so that
the ion passes through undeflected. What is the magnitude of the adjusted magnetic field, and the polarity
of the M terminal relative to the N terminal?
2002
9.4.1.3.3
Question 25 (6 marks)
A pair of parallel metal plates, placed in a vacuum, are separated by a distance of 5.00 × 10-3 m and have
a potential difference of 1000 V applied to them.
9.4.1.2.5
(a) Calculate the magnitude of the electric field strength between the plates. (1 mark)
(b) Calculate the magnitude of the electrostatic force acting on an electron between the plates. (1 mark)
(c) A beam of electrons is fired with a velocity of 3.00 × 106 m s−1 between the plates as shown. A
magnetic field is applied between the plates, sufficient to cancel the force on the electron beam due to the
electric field. (1 mark)
Calculate the magnitude and direction of the magnetic field required between the plates to stop the
deflection of the electron beam. (4 marks)
2005
9.4.1.3.3
Question 26 (5 marks)
The diagram shows two parallel horizontal metal plates connected to a DC source of electricity.
Suspended between the plates is a charged particle of mass 9.6 × 10−6 kg.
9.4.1.2.7
(a) Using conventional symbols, draw the electric field between the metal plates on the diagram above.
(1 mark)
(b) Determine the magnitude of the electric field between the plates. (1 mark)
2007
(c) Determine the sign and magnitude of the charge on the particle if it is suspended motionless between
the plates. (3 marks)
Question 11
Two parallel metal plates are 1mm apart. A potential difference of 100V is applied as shown.
9.4.1.3.3
What is the magnitude of the uniform electric field between the plates?
2007
9.4.1.3.3
(A) 10–3 V m–1
(B) 10–1 V m–1
(C) 102 V m–1
(D) 105 V m–1
Question 24 (3 marks)
(b) A tiny particle of mass 10–30 kg and charge +6 × 10–12 C is released at point Y as shown on the
diagram. The particle initially accelerates at 7.0 × 1021ms–2.
Calculate the electric field intensity at Y. (2 marks)
2009
9.4.1.3.3
Question 19 (6 marks)
An electron is emitted from a mineral sample, and travels through aperture A into a spectrometer at an
angle of 60° with a speed of 6.0 × 106ms-1.
9.2.2.3.1
2009
(a) Calculate the magnitude and direction of the force experienced by the electron inside the
spectrometer. (3 marks)
Question 25 (5 marks)
In the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), the particle beams are steered using magnetic fields, as shown.
9.4.1.3.3
9.2.2.3.4
9.4.1.2.5
(b) During a test run, a proton travels with a speed of 1.0 × 107 ms–1 around the LHC. The radius of
curvature of its path is 4.2 m. Calculate the magnetic field strength. (3 marks)
2011
9.4.1.3.3
2003
9.4.2.2.1
Question 7
Two parallel plates are 2 mm apart and have a potential difference of 100 V between them. An electron is
placed halfway between the plates.
What is the magnitude of the force on the electron?
(A) 8.0 × 10–18 N
(B) 1.6 × 10–17 N
(C) 8.0 × 10–15 N
(D) 1.6 × 10–14 N
Question 14
Heinrich Hertz used a set-up similar to the one shown below to investigate the production and detection
of electromagnetic radiation.
A glass sheet was placed between the transmitter and receiver.
Which of the following observations is consistent with the photoelectric effect that Hertz produced?
(A) Radio waves were blocked when the glass sheet was in place.
(B) Ultraviolet waves were blocked when the glass sheet was in place.
(C) The maximum spark length was longer when the glass sheet was in place.
(D) The maximum spark length was shorter when the glass sheet was in place.
2006
9.4.2.2.1
Question 15
When electromagnetic radiation shines on metals, photoelectrons may be emitted. The maximum kinetic
energy of emitted photoelectrons is plotted against radiation frequency for four metals as shown in the
graph.
Electromagnetic radiation of wavelength 187 nm shines upon an unknown metal and the maximum
kinetic energy of the photoelectrons is found to be 2.5 eV.
2010
9.4.2.2.2
Based on this information, what is the unknown metal?
(A) Al
(B) Be
(C) Ca
(D) Fe
Question 14
Heinrich Hertz devised and performed an experiment to investigate electromagnetic waves. In this
experiment he was able to determine the speed of the waves.
Which method was used to determine the speed?
2002
9.4.2.2.3
(A) Timing how long it took the wave to travel a known distance
(B) Producing a wave of known wavelength and using reflection to determine the frequency
(C) Producing a wave of known frequency and using interference to determine the wavelength
(D) Using an interference pattern to determine the distance travelled and time taken
Question 15
A student carried out an experiment during which light of different frequencies was shone onto a metal
surface to produce photoelectrons.
The student measured the maximum kinetic energy of the emitted photoelectrons as the frequency of light
was altered.
The relationship between the maximum kinetic energy of the photoelectrons and the frequency of the
light incident on the metal surface is given by:
Ek(max) = hf ø
where
Ek(max) = maximum kinetic energy of the photoelectrons
f = frequency of light used
h = Planck’s constant
ø = a constant dependent on the metal used.
How could the student best analyse the data to determine a value for Planck’s constant?
(A) Plot Ek(max) against f and find the gradient of the line of best fit.
(B) Plot Ek(max) against ø and find the gradient of the line of best fit.
(C) Plot Ek(max) against f and find the intercept of the line of best fit.
(D) Plot Ek(max) against ø and find the intercept of the line of best fit.
2004
9.4.2.2.3
Question 15
The graph shows the intensity–wavelength relationship of electromagnetic radiation emitted from a black
body cavity.
In 1900, Planck proposed a mathematical formula that predicted an intensity–wavelength relationship
consistent with the experimental data.
The success of this formula depended on which of the following hypotheses?
2005
9.4.2.2.3
(A) The intensity of light is dependent on the wavelength.
(B) Light is quantised, with the energy of light quanta depending on the frequency.
(C) Light is a wave whose intensity is readily expressed using mathematical formulae.
(D) Light is quantised, with the energy of the light quanta depending on the size of the cavity from which
it is emitted.
Question 12
The family of curves below shows the relationship between the intensity of black body radiation and its
wavelength for various Kelvin temperatures.
Who was the first to correctly explain this relationship?
(A) Planck, in 1900, when he suggested energy at the atomic level was quantised
(B) Einstein, in 1905, when he suggested light was a stream of particles called photons
(C) Rutherford, in 1911, when he suggested the nuclear model of the atom
(D) Bohr, in 1913, when he suggested electrons exist in stationary states
2005
9.4.2.2.3
9.4.2.2.4
2006
9.4.2.2.3
9.4.2.2.4
2010
Question 23 (3 marks)
Explain how an understanding of black body radiation changed the direction of scientific thinking in the
early twentieth century.
Question 26 (4 marks)
Beginning in the late 19th century, observations and experiments on black body radiation and
the photoelectric effect led physicists to revise their existing model of light. Use the above as an
example to explain how scientists test and validate models.
Question 13
What was Max Planck’s contribution to the development of quantum physics?
9.4.2.2.3
2008
9.4.2.2.4
9.2.4.2.5
2003
9.4.2.2.4
(A) He combined the quantised wave and particle models of light.
(B) He analysed the photoelectric effect and described light as quantised energy packets.
(C) He explained black body radiation and the photoelectric effect using quantised energy.
(D) He hypothesised that the radiation emitted and absorbed by the walls of a black body cavity is
quantised.
Question 24 (6 marks)
How did Einstein’s theory of special relativity and his explanation of the photoelectric effect lead to the
reconceptualisation of the model of light?
Question 26 (6 marks)
Describe Einstein’s contributions to Special Relativity and to Quantum Theory and how these
contributions changed the direction of scientific thinking in the Twentieth Century.
9.2.4.2.5
9.2.4.2.9
2005
Question 25 (6 marks)
A student conducts an experiment using a photoelectric cell as shown in the diagram.
9.4.2.2.5
9.4.2.2.6
Light is shone through a grid onto a metal surface. The metal is at earth potential and the grid is at 100 V,
so that any electrons emitted from the surface produce a current in the external circuit.
The student shines light sources of different photon energies onto the metal surface and records the
current flowing for each. The light sources are adjusted so that their intensities are equal.
The results are recorded in the table and shown on the graph.
(a) On the grid provided, draw the straight line of best fit in the region where the photo-current varies
greatest with photon energy. (1 mark)
(b) From the line drawn on your graph, estimate the minimum energy (work function) for photoelectric
emission. (1 mark)
(c) The experiment is repeated, but the intensities of the light sources are doubled. Predict the results of
this new experiment by drawing a second line on the graph. (2 marks)
(d) Justify the line you have drawn in part (c). (2 marks)
2007
9.4.2.2.5
Question 27 (8 marks)
Scientists tried to explain observations of black-body radiation using classical wave theory and then
quantum theory.
9.4.2.2.6
(a) How does quantum theory satisfactorily explain black-body radiation? (3 marks)
(b) Describe Hertz’s observation of the photoelectric effect. (2 marks)
(c) An experiment was conducted in which light of different frequencies was shone onto the surfaces of
four different metals. Electrons were found to be emitted and their kinetic energies were measured. The
graph shows the results.
(i) Calculate the gradient of the sodium (Na) graph. Show your working. (2 marks)
(ii) Each of the graphs has the same gradient. What is the significance of this observation? (1 mark)
2011
9.4.2.2.5
2011
9.4.2.2.5
Question 29 (5 marks)
(b) A 1 W beam of light transfers 1 J per second from one point to another. With reference to the particle
model of light, contrast a 1 W beam of red light and a 1 W beam of blue light. (2 marks)
Question 17
When photons with energy E strike a metal surface, electrons may be emitted.
The maximum kinetic energy (Ek) of the electrons is given by Ek = EW where W is a constant for the
metal.
Which of the following graphs shows the relationship between the maximum kinetic energy of these
electrons (Ek) and the wavelength of the photons (λ)?
2001
9.4.2.2.6
Question 6
The signal from a microwave transmitter can be thought of as a beam of photons. The photons from a
particular transmitter have a wavelength of 3.5 × 10–2 m.
9.4.2.2.7
What is the approximate energy of each photon?
9.4.2.3.5
(A) 7.73 × 10–44 J
(B) 5.68 × 10–24 J
(C) 2.32 × 10–35 J
(D) 1.89 × 10–32 J
Question 25 (6 marks)
A student carried out an experiment on the photoelectric effect. The frequency of the incident radiation
and the energy of the photoelectrons were both determined from measurements taken during the
experiment.
2001
9.4.2.2.6
9.4.2.2.7
The results obtained are shown in the table:
(a) Graph these results on the grid, including the line of best fit.
2005
9.4.2.2.6
9.4.2.3.4
Question 14
An FM radio station transmits at a frequency of 102.8 MHz.
What is the energy, in joules, of each photon emitted by the transmitter?
(A) 6.446 × 10–42
(B) 6.812 × 10–26
(C) 2.918
(D) 3.084 × 1016
2007
Question 15
What CANNOT be calculated using the principle of conservation of energy?
9.4.2.2.6
9.2.1.2.2
9.3.4.2.4
9.3.2.2.5
2010
(A) The energy of a proton at rest
(B) The production of back emf in a motor
(C) Voltage transformation in an ideal transformer
(D) The escape velocity of an object from the gravitational field of a planet
Question 31 (5 marks)
(a) What is the energy of a photon having a wavelength of 1000 nm? (2 marks)
9.4.2.2.6
9.4.2.3.4
2008
9.4.2.3.1
2007
9.4.2.3.2
9.4.2.2.5
2003
9.4.2.3.4
Question 16 (3 marks)
Using a diagram and text, describe how an investigation can be performed to demonstrate the production
and reception of radio waves.
Question 10
What is the wave property that enabled Hertz to calculate the velocity of radiowaves and compare it to the
velocity of light?
(A) Interference
(B) Polarisation
(C) Reflection
(D) Refraction
Question 25 (5 marks)
A physics student was conducting an investigation on the photoelectric effect. The student used an
infrared laser with a wavelength of 1.55 × 106 m for this investigation.
(a) Calculate the energy of a photon from this laser. (2 marks)
9.4.2.2.4
2009
9.4.2.2.6
(b) When the laser light was shone onto a photo-cell, no current was detected. The student increased the
intensity of the light but still detected no current. Explain this observation.
(3 marks)
Question 27 (7 marks)
In an experiment to investigate the photoelectric effect, light is shone onto a silver surface and the
resulting maximum electron kinetic energy is measured and recorded.
9.4.2.3.2
9.4.2.3.4
(a) Determine the frequency of the highest energy photons used in the experiment. (2 marks)
(b) What effect would changing the intensity of the light have on the measured electron kinetic energy? (1
mark)
2004
Question 25 (6 marks)
An example of a solar cell is shown below.
9.4.2.3.3
9.4.3.2.3
The solar cell is able to produce a current due to the photoelectric effect and the electrical properties of
the n-type and p-type layers.
2009
9.4.2.3.3
2010
9.4.2.3.3
2004
9.4.2.3.4
2008
9.4.2.3.4
2011
9.4.2.3.4
Use this information to outline the process by which light shining on the solar cell produces an electric
current that can light up a light globe.
Question 27 (7 marks)
(c) With reference to the photoelectric effect and the semiconductors shown in the diagram, explain the
operation of a solar cell. (4 marks)
Question 31 (3 marks)
(b) Explain why light having a wavelength longer than a certain value does not produce an electric current
in a photocell.
Question 14
The minimum amount of energy needed to eject an electron from a clean aluminium surface is 6.72 × 10–
19
J.
What is the maximum wavelength of incident light that can be shone on this aluminium surface in order
to eject electrons?
(A) 9.86 × 10−16 m
(B) 2.96 × 10−7 m
(C) 3.38 × 106 m
(D) 1.02 × 1015 m
Question 13
What is the energy of a photon of wavelength 580 nm?
(A) 3.43 × 10–19J
(B) 3.43 × 10–28J
(C) 3.85 × 10–31J
(D) 3.85 × 10–40J
Question 29 (5 marks)
(a) Calculate the number of photons,  = 450 nm, which are required to transfer 1.0 × 10–3 J of energy. (3
marks)
2001
Question 26 (8 marks)
In the context of semiconductors, explain the concept of electrons and holes.
9.4.3.2.2
9.4.3.2.3
9.4.3.2.4
9.4.3.2.5
9.4.3.2.8
9.4.3.2.9
9.4.3.3.1
9.4.3.3.2
2006
9.4.3.2.2
2008
Question 23 (6 marks)
(a) Draw labelled diagrams of the band structures of an insulator, a semiconductor, and a conductor.
(2 marks)
(b) With reference to your diagrams, describe the differences in electrical resistance between insulators,
semiconductors and conductors. (2 marks)
Question 15
A block of silicon doped with boron is connected as shown in the diagram below.
9.4.3.2.2
9.4.3.2.3
9.4.3.2.7
9.4.3.2.6
What is the main way in which conduction occurs in the doped silicon block?
2010
9.4.3.2.2
9.4.3.2.1
9.4.3.2.4
2011
9.4.3.2.2
2002
9.4.3.2.3
(A) Valence band electrons move to the right.
(B) Valence band electrons move to the left.
(C) Conduction band electrons move to the right.
(D) Conduction band electrons move to the left.
Question 19
Why is pure copper a better electrical conductor than pure silicon?
(A) Electrons move through copper in pairs.
(B) Silicon contains fewer free electrons than copper.
(C) Copper has a conduction band and silicon does not.
(D) Copper atoms contain more electrons than silicon atoms.
Question 4
Why are insulators poor conductors of electricity?
(A) Insulators do not have a conduction band.
(B) The valence bands of insulators do not contain any electrons.
(C) Insulators have a large energy band gap and a full valence band.
(D) Insulators have a small energy band gap and a partly filled conduction band.
Question 24 (8 marks)
In terms of band structures and relative electrical resistance, describe the differences between a conductor,
an insulator and a semiconductor.
2005
9.4.3.2.3
Question 15
A current is passed along a square semiconductor rod as shown. Half of the current is carried by electrons
and half by holes. A magnetic field is then applied to the rod at right angles to its axis.
9.3.1.2.5
2002
9.4.3.2.5
2009
Which of the following correctly describes the movement of the electrons and holes in the rod when the
magnetic field is applied?
(A) They speed up.
(B) They slow down.
(C) They move to the same side of the rod.
(D) They move to opposite sides of the rod.
Question 14
During the early 1950s most transistors were manufactured using germanium.
Why was germanium used instead of silicon?
(A) Silicon is more brittle than germanium.
(B) Germanium could be more easily produced in a purified form.
(C) Germanium is a more abundant raw material.
(D) Silicon does not retain its semiconductor properties at high temperatures.
Question 10
Which option best identifies why germanium was replaced by silicon in the semiconductor industry?
9.4.3.2.5
9.4.3.3.2
2003
9.4.3.2.6
2004
9.4.3.2.6
9.4.3.2.7
Question 13
An n-type semiconductor is produced when silicon crystal is doped with small quantities of phosphorus.
How will this doping change the crystal’s electrical conductivity?
(A) The conductivity will decrease because there are fewer holes in the valence band.
(B) The conductivity will increase because there are more holes in the valence band.
(C) The conductivity will decrease because there are fewer electrons in the conduction band.
(D) The conductivity will increase because there are more electrons in the conduction band.
Question 13
Compared to silicon atoms, phosphorus atoms have one more electron in their outer shell.
Boron atoms have one less electron than silicon atoms in their outer shell.
Which of the following is the correct statement?
(A) An n-type semiconductor is produced when silicon is doped with phosphorus, and a p-type
semiconductor when silicon is doped with boron.
(B) A p-type semiconductor is produced when silicon is doped with phosphorus, and an n-type
semiconductor when silicon is doped with boron.
(C) The addition of phosphorus atoms turns silicon into a conductor but the addition of boron atoms turns
silicon into an insulator.
(D) The addition of boron atoms turns silicon into a conductor but the addition of phosphorus atoms turns
silicon into an insulator.
2005
Question 13
A doped silicon semiconductor has the following energy-level diagram.
9.4.3.2.6
2006
9.4.3.2.6
2010
What element was most likely used to dope the silicon?
(A) Boron
(B) Germanium
(C) Phosphorus
(D) Sulfur
Question 23 (6 marks)
(c) Explain how the addition of trace amounts of certain elements, such as phosphorus, can change the
electrical resistance of semiconductors at a given temperature. (2 marks)
Question 30 (5 marks)
Pure germanium can be doped by adding small amounts of boron.
9.4.3.2.6
(b) Explain how the addition of boron alters the electrical conductivity of germanium. (3 marks)
2011
9.4.3.2.6
2002
9.4.3.2.7
2007
Question 13
A sample of pure silicon is doped with arsenic.
How does the electrical conductivity of the doped silicon change, and for what reason?
Question 11
Which of the following describes an n-type semiconductor?
(A) A semiconductor doped to produce extra free electrons
(B) A semiconductor doped to remove free electrons
(C) A semiconductor doped to produce extra holes
(D) An undoped semiconductor
Question 14
Which of the following is a property of a silicon p-type semiconductor?
9.4.3.2.7
(A) It is positively charged.
(B) It has fewer holes than pure silicon.
(C) It can be produced by doping the silicon with boron.
(D) It can be produced by doping the silicon with phosphorus.
2009
Question 12
Which of the following diagrams best represents the energy bands in p–type and n–type semiconductors?
9.4.3.2.7
9.4.3.2.2
2010
Question 30 (5 marks)
Pure germanium can be doped by adding small amounts of boron.
9.4.3.2.7
(a) Is the doped germanium an n-type or a p-type semiconductor? Justify your answer. (2 marks)
2004
9.4.3.2.8
Question 23 (6 marks)
In the past 50 years electrical technology has developed from the widespread use of thermionic devices to
the use of solid state devices and superconductors.
(a) List THREE disadvantages of thermionic devices that led to their replacement. (3 marks)
2007
Question 22 (4 marks)
Explain why solid state devices have largely replaced thermionic devices.
9.4.3.2.8
2009
9.4.3.3.2
9.4.3.3.3
2001
9.4.4.2.1
Question 22 (4 marks)
How did the invention of the transistor transform the way communication occurs in Australia? In your
answer, refer to the technology that the transistor replaced.
Question 24 (6 marks)
Sir William Bragg and his son Sir Lawrence Bragg shared the Nobel prize for physics in 1915 for their
work on X-ray diffraction and crystal structure analysis.
(a) Describe ONE way in which an understanding of crystal structure has impacted on science. (2 marks)
(b) Outline the methods of X-ray diffraction used by the Braggs to determine the structure of crystals.
(4 marks)
2006
9.4.4.2.1
2007
9.4.4.2.1
2010
9.4.4.2.1
2003
9.4.4.2.2
2011
9.4.4.2.2
2008
9.4.4.2.3
9.4.3.2.3
9.4.4.2.5
Question 11
Lawrence and William Bragg used X-rays to determine the crystal structure of materials. Which property
of waves was the basis of their technique?
(A) Diffraction
(B) Dispersion
(C) Polarisation
(D) Rarefaction
Question 12
The Bragg experiment used X-rays to investigate crystal structure. Which statement best describes the
results of this experiment?
(A) X-rays are scattered from a crystal and form an interference pattern.
(B) X-rays penetrate a crystal and form an interference pattern behind it.
(C) X-rays are absorbed and re-emitted equally in all directions by a crystal.
(D) X-rays absorbed by a crystal produce minima and those reflected produce maxima.
Question 18
What did William and Lawrence Bragg use X-rays to investigate?
(A) The speed of light
(B) The emission of photoelectrons
(C) The crystal structure of materials
(D) The charge to mass ratio of an electron
Question 11
Which of the following did the Braggs investigate using X-ray diffraction?
(A) Cathode rays
(B) Crystal structure
(C) Photoelectric effect
(D) Superconductivity
Question 3
Metals have a crystal lattice structure.
What part of the metal’s structure does the lattice represent?
(A) The number of Cooper pairs
(B) The location of the metal ions
(C) The position of the free electrons
(D) The energy gap below the conduction band
Question 20 (4 marks)
Compare how electric current is conducted through samples of germanium at room temperature,
mercury at room temperature and mercury at 3K (Tc for mercury is 4.2 K).
2006
9.4.4.2.3
2008
9.4.4.2.4
Question 13
The temperature of a metal is reduced.
Which statement correctly identifies the change in its electrical resistance and the reason for this change?
Question 27 (6 marks)
A student was given a sample of wire X and a sample of wire Y. The wires looked identical. However,
one was pure chromium and the other was nichrome, an alloy containing chromium and nickel. To
differentiate between the two wires, the student set up the circuit below and obtained the results shown in
the table.
The data for wire X has been plotted on the graph below.
2003
9.4.4.2.4
9.4.4.2.6
2008
9.4.4.2.4
9.4.4.2.4
9.4.4
(d) When the data for wire X was plotted, one data point was considered inconsistent and was disregarded
when drawing the trend line for calculating its resistance. Suggest a physical reason why this data point is
inconsistent with the trend line. (1 mark)
Question 23 (6 marks)
(b) Compare the model for the conduction of electricity in metals at room temperature with the model for
conduction of electricity in superconductors below the critical temperature. (3 marks)
Question 27 (6 marks)
A student was given a sample of wire X and a sample of wire Y. The wires looked identical. However,
one was pure chromium and the other was nichrome, an alloy containing chromium and nickel. To
differentiate between the two wires, the student set up the circuit below and obtained the results shown in
the table.
(a) The data for wire X has been plotted on the graph below. Plot the data, including a trend line, for wire
Y on the same graph. (2 marks)
(b) Calculate the resistance of wire Y. (1 mark)
(c) Which sample of wire was pure chromium? Justify your response with reference to your graph. (2
marks)
2002
9.4.4.2.4
(d) When the data for wire X was plotted, one data point was considered inconsistent and was disregarded
when drawing the trend line for calculating its resistance. Suggest a physical reason why this data point is
inconsistent with the trend line. (1 mark)
Question 12
Which of the following graphs shows the behaviour of a superconducting material?
2011
9.4.4.2.4
Question 21 (5 marks)
The electrical resistance, R, of a piece of wire was measured at different temperatures, T.
Near room temperature, the resistance of the wire can be modelled by the equation R = mT + b.
9.4.4.2.4
(a) Plot the TWO remaining data points on the graph provided. Draw a line of best fit on the graph and
use it to estimate the electrical resistance of the wire at 24°C. (3 marks)
(b) Assess the validity of using the data from this experiment to estimate the electrical resistance at –
100°C. (2 marks)
2007
9.4.4.2.5
2009
9.4.4.2.5
2009
9.4.4.2.5
9.4.2.2.4
9.4.2.3.2
Question 23 (4 marks)
(b) Describe what happens to one property of superconductors near the critical temperature.
(1 mark)
Question 13
Why does superconductivity occur in certain materials at low temperatures?
(A) At low temperatures there are no lattice vibrations.
(B) Some pairs of electrons experience net attraction at low temperatures.
(C) The materials are alloys and alloys lose all resistance at low temperatures.
(D) At low temperatures the materials become magnetic and this reduces the scattering of electron pairs.
Question 14
Blue light is found to cause photoelectric emission from a sodium surface but not from a platinum
surface.
Which of the following best accounts for this difference?
(A) Platinum does not absorb photons.
(B) Platinum has more electrons than sodium.
(C) More energy is needed to remove an electron from a platinum surface.
(D) The intensity of the blue light is not high enough to remove electrons from the platinum surface.
2005
Question 22 (5 marks)
A schematic diagram of a system to supply electricity to a house is shown below.
9.4.4.2.5
9.3.3.2.4
9.3.4.2.3
9.3.4.3.2
The step-down transformer in the substation has a turns ratio of 30 : 1.
(a) What is the voltage carried by the high voltage transmission line? (1 mark)
(b) Identify the causes of the two main energy losses in the transmission of electricity between the power
plant and the house. (2 marks)
(c) Explain how the application of superconductivity could minimise energy loss in the system. (2 marks)
2005
Question 24 (4 marks)
Using labelled diagrams and text, explain how superconductivity occurs according to the BCS theory.
9.4.4.2.6
2011
Question 30 (6 marks)
The graph shows the relationship between the resistance of a metal alloy sample and its temperature.
9.4.4.2.4
9.4.4.2.6
(a) Why is the resistance of the sample higher at 60 K than at 30 K? (2 marks)
(b) Use BCS theory to explain why the resistance of the sample is zero at temperatures below 18 K.
(4 marks)
2002
9.4.4.2.7
2001
9.4.4.2.7
2004
9.4.4.2.7
9.4.4.3.5
2006
Question 26 (3 marks)
Some materials become superconductors when cooled to extremely low temperatures.
Identify THREE properties of superconductors.
Question 12
Which of the following statements best describes the reason why some materials become superconducting
at very low temperatures?
(A) The ions in the superconductor form a regular crystal lattice. There are long channels through the
lattice along which the electrons can pass without colliding with the lattice.
(B) Vibrations of the crystal lattice are so small that they do not interfere with the motion of the electrons.
(C) Electrons in a superconductor have very low energy. Their energy is so low that they cannot transfer
energy to the crystal lattice in a collision.
(D) Electrons ‘pair up’. These electron pairs pass through the crystal lattice of the superconductor without
losing energy in collisions with the lattice.
Question 23 (6 marks)
(b) Outline ONE advantage of using superconductors, with reference to TWO applications.
(3 marks)
Question 21 (6 marks)
Assess the impact on society and the environment of the potential applications of superconductors.
9.4.4.2.7
9.4.4.3.5
9.4.3
2007
Question 23 (4 marks)
(a) The table shows the critical temperature Tc at which some materials become superconducting.
9.4.4.2.7
9.4.4.2.7
9.4.4.3.3
With reference to the table, identify what scientists working in the area of superconductivity are trying to
achieve. (1 mark)
(c) Explain why magnetic levitation occurs in superconducting materials. (2 marks)
2009
9.4.4.2.7
9.4.4.3.5
Question 26 (6 marks)
In the distribution of electricity, the overall energy losses between the power plant and users
can easily be between 8% and 15%, which suggests that there is still some room to improve
efficiency.
Analyse this statement. In your analysis, you must refer to existing sources of energy loss, and a possible
9.3.4.3.39 new technology to minimise such loss.
.3.5.3.2
2001
Question 3
The resistance of mercury at various temperatures is shown in the graph.
9.4.4.3.2
2003
Between which two temperatures does mercury always act as a superconductor?
(A) 0 K and 4.2 K
(B) 4.2 K and 4.5 K
(C) 4.5 K and 8.0 K
(D) 0 K and 8.0 K
Question 23 (6 marks)
(a) The following image shows a magnet hovering above a superconducting disk.
9.4.4.3.3
Explain why the magnet is able to hover above the superconductor. (3 marks)
2008
9.4.4.3.3
2002
9.4.4.3.4
9.4.4.3.5
2010
9.4.4.3.5
Question 14
When a magnet is released above a superconductor that has been cooled below its critical temperature, the
magnet hovers above the superconductor. This is called the Meissner effect. What is the best explanation
for this?
(A) The net force is zero due to electrostatic repulsion.
(B) The magnetic field freezes at very low temperature.
(C) The net force is zero due to repulsion between the Cooper pairs.
(D) The superconductor excludes magnetic fields at very low temperatures.
Question 27 (4 marks)
There are two areas in which energy savings can be made by the use of superconductors.
These are:
• electricity generation and transmission
• transportation
Discuss how energy savings can be achieved in each of these two areas.
Question 27 (6 marks)
Magnetic resonance imaging is a current technology that uses superconductors. Identify two OTHER
technologies that use superconductors. Evaluate the impact of these technologies on society and the
environment.