DP Physics (first assessment 2025)

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Question 22M.1A.SL.TZ2.23

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Date May 2022 Marks available [Maximum mark: 1] Reference code 22M.1A.SL.TZ2.23
Level SL Paper 1A Time zone TZ2
Command term Question number 23 Adapted from N/A
23.
[Maximum mark: 1]
22M.1A.SL.TZ2.23

A satellite is orbiting Earth in a circular path at constant speed. Three statements about the resultant force on the satellite are:

I.   It is equal to the gravitational force of attraction on the satellite.
II.  It is equal to the mass of the satellite multiplied by its acceleration.
III. It is equal to the centripetal force on the satellite.

Which combination of statements is correct?

A.  I and II only

B.  I and III only

C.  II and III only

D.  I, II and III

[1]

Markscheme

D

Examiners report

This was a good discriminator at HL although many candidates chose option B (D correct). Option B was just the most popular choice at SL. Candidates appear not to realise that although this is circular motion F = ma still applies.

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