Three and four mark questions
These are similar to one and two mark questions but you will be expected to write in more depth for three and four mark questions.
This page contains AQA material which is reproduced by permission of AQA.
Sample question 1 - Foundation
Question
Figure 4 shows a coil of wire in a circuit.
Figure 4
On Figure 4 draw the magnetic field due to the current in the coil. [3 marks]
The magnetic field should show:
- parallel field lines through the wire coil
- field lines curving round the top and bottom of the wire coil
- arrows indicating the direction from North to South
Sample question 2 - Higher
Question
A teacher used the equipment shown in the image below to demonstrate the motor effect.
Describe how Fleming’s left-hand rule can be used to determine the direction in which the rod will move when the switch is closed, and state the direction. [3 marks]
A strong answer will be clearly worded and include at least three of the following points:
- thumb, index finger and third finger are held mutually at right angles
- index finger shows the direction of the magnetic field from North to South
- third finger shows the direction of the current from positive to negative terminal
- the thumb then shows the direction of the force acting on the copper rod
- so the copper rod will move upwards
Sample question 3 - Higher
Question
In a scrapyard, an electromagnet is used to lift and release cars so they can be moved around.
Suggest two ways a solenoid could be made to lift and release cars in a scrapyard.
Explain why each suggestion would be useful in the scrapyard. [2 marks]
Any two of the following:
- use a long, tightly coiled wire to give a strong magnetic field
- add an iron core to increase the effect of the field
- include a switch in the circuit so it can pick up/drop cars
It’s important that you mention the effect of each suggestion.
Sample question 4 - Higher
Question
Figure 5 shows the ignition circuit used to switch the starter motor in a car on.
The circuit includes an electromagnetic switch.
Figure 5
Explain how the ignition circuit works. [4 marks]
A strong answer will be clearly worded with good use of scientific key words and will include any four points from:
- closing the (ignition) switch causes a current to pass through the electromagnet
- the iron core becomes magnetised
- the electromagnet attracts the iron arm
- the iron arm pushes the starter motor contacts together
- the starter motor circuit is complete
- a current flows through the starter motor (which then turns)
