DP Physics (first assessment 2025)

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Question 19M.2.HL.TZ2.4b

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Date May 2019 Marks available [Maximum mark: 2] Reference code 19M.2.HL.TZ2.4b
Level HL Paper 2 Time zone TZ2
Command term Describe Question number b Adapted from N/A
b.
[Maximum mark: 2]
19M.2.HL.TZ2.4b
(b)

Use your answer to (a)(ii) to describe the paradigm shift that Einstein’s theory of special relativity produced.

[2]

Markscheme

c is the same in all frames

OR

c is maximum velocity possible ✔

velocity addition frame dependent ✔

length/time/mass/fields relative measurements ✔

Newtonian/Galilean mechanics valid only at low speed ✔

Examiners report

Most candidates correctly stated that in special relativity the velocity of light, c, is the maximum possible velocity or is invariant. Only a few added that Galilean relativity only applies at speeds much less than the speed of light.

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