DP Physics (last assessment 2024)

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Question 20N.3.HL.TZ0.24

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Date November 2020 Marks available [Maximum mark: 3] Reference code 20N.3.HL.TZ0.24
Level HL Paper 3 Time zone TZ0
Command term Identify, State Question number 24 Adapted from N/A
24.
[Maximum mark: 3]
20N.3.HL.TZ0.24

The cosmic microwave background (CMB) radiation is observed to have anisotropies.

(a)

State the nature of the anisotropies observed in the CMB radiation.

[1]

Markscheme

the temperature/«peak» wavelength/intensity «of the CMBR» varies «slightly» / is not constant in different directions ✓

Examiners report

This was not the best answered question in the Option. Candidates oscillated between correct identification of characteristics of the CMB radiation and more generic explanations about the Big Bang.

(b)

Identify two possible causes of the anisotropies in (a).

[2]

Markscheme

quantum fluctuations «that have expanded» ✓

density perturbations «that resulted in galaxies and clusters of galaxies» ✓

dipole distortion «due to the motion of the Earth» ✓

Examiners report

Those who correctly identified specific characteristics of the CMB radiation were able to quote causes for this during the early Big Bang.

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