HPQ:Physics:National 5: Dynamics and Space: Malcolm Thomson

These questions could be used as part of the National 5 (GCSE) Physics course

Question 1
A spacecraft completes the last stage of its journey back to Earth by parachute, falling with constant speed into the sea.
The spacecraft falls with constant speed because

A the gravitational field strength is constant near the Earth's surface
B it has come from space where gravitational field strength is almost zero
C the air resistance is greater than the weight of the spacecraft
D the weight of the spacecraft is greater than the air resistance
E the air resistance is equal to the weight of the spacecraft

Evidence – understanding of Newton 1 and balanced forces also some misconceptions about gravity
Response – show simulation of parachutes and force diagrams

Question 2

A block of a lightweight material is placed in a tank of water and is observed to sink so that its bottom surface is a depth of 50 mm below the surface.
Which of the following statements is/are true?

I The pressure of the water on the top and bottom surfaces of the block is equal.
II The same block placed in a more dense liquid floats nearer the surface.
III A more dense block of the same size floats at the same depth.

A I only.
B II only.
C I and II only
D I and III only
E I, II and III

Evidence – understanding of pressure and density
Response – design and carry out a practical activity in order to test hypothesis