Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Stress and strain

Stress and strain — practice question

Scientists are examining how air pressure varies across different points on a mountain.
(a)[2]

At each site, the scientists measure several physical quantities. Complete Table 1.1 by giving the SI base unit for each quantity and by ticking (✓) whether each one is a scalar or a vector. Use the working space if needed.

(b(i))[2]

At one site, the air density is $1.1\,\text{kg m}^{-3}$. A spherical weather balloon is filled with gas and then released from rest. The balloon has radius $0.90\,\text{m}$. Calculate the upthrust acting on the balloon at the moment it is released.

(b(ii))[2]

Explain why the balloon experiences an upthrust.

(b(iii))[3]

The balloon’s weight is $19\,\text{N}$. Calculate the magnitude of its initial acceleration.

(c)[2]

A quantity $c$ connected with the balloon’s motion is determined from three measured quantities $k$, $F$ and $v$ using $c = \dfrac{2kF}{v^2}$. The percentage uncertainties in the measured quantities are listed in Table 1.2. The calculated value of $c$ is $1.8$. Determine the absolute uncertainty in $c$.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 11-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: air temperature in K and air pressure in kg m^-1 s^-2

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