Physics 5054 · O Level · Kinetic particle model of matter

Kinetic particle model of matter — practice question

Fig. 1.1 illustrates a toy water rocket. It is partly filled with water and linked to a pump by rubber tubing. The labels show: air pump, air, rocket, water, rubber tubing.
(a(i))[3]

Explain, in terms of particles, why the air in the rocket exerts a pressure on the walls of the rocket.

(a(ii))[1]

The temperature of the air in the rocket stays constant while air is pumped in. Explain why increasing the number of air particles in the rocket increases the pressure of the air in the rocket.

(b)[3]

When the air pressure in the rocket is high, the rubber tubing is taken away from the rocket. The water in the rocket is expelled downwards. Explain, in terms of momentum, why the rocket begins to accelerate upwards.

(c)[2]

As water is expelled from the rocket, the rocket’s upward acceleration changes. Suggest two reasons for the change in the acceleration of the rocket.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 9-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: particles move / collide / hit

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