Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Density and pressure

Density and pressure — practice question

A tube shaped like a W contains two separate portions of mercury, and each is exposed to the atmosphere. A pocket of air at pressure $P$ is trapped between them. The diagram labels two vertical distances $x$ and $y$. Atmospheric pressure is the same as the pressure produced by a column of mercury $760\,\text{mm}$ high. The pressure $P$ is written in this form. Which combinations of $x$, $y$ and $P$ could be correct?

  • A$x = 20\,\text{mm}$, $y = 20\,\text{mm}$, $P = 780\,\text{mm}$ of mercury
  • B$x = 20\,\text{mm}$, $y = 30\,\text{mm}$, $P = 780\,\text{mm}$ of mercury
  • C$x = 30\,\text{mm}$, $y = 20\,\text{mm}$, $P = 810\,\text{mm}$ of mercury
  • D$x = 30\,\text{mm}$, $y = 30\,\text{mm}$, $P = 790\,\text{mm}$ of mercury

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 1-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme.

  • Full mark scheme, point by point
  • Step-by-step worked solution
  • Write your answer & get it marked instantly by AI