DP Physics (last assessment 2024)

Question 18M.2.HL.TZ2.6a.ii

a.ii.

[Maximum mark: 2]

18M.2.HL.TZ2.6a.ii

A planet has radius R. At a distance h above the surface of the planet the gravitational field strength is g and the gravitational potential is V.

(a.ii)

Show that V = –g(R + h).

[2]

Markscheme

at height h potential is V = – $\frac{{GM}}{{(R + h)}}$

field is g = $\frac{{GM}}{{{{(R + h)}^2}}}$

«dividing gives answer»

Do not allow an answer that starts with g = – $\frac{{\Delta V}}{{\Delta r}}$ and then cancels the deltas and substitutes R + h

[2 marks]

Syllabus sections