AQA AS Level Physics Paper 2, November 2021: Question 34
1 mark · Easy difficulty · Multiple Choice
Identify the correct use of superconductors from a multiple-choice list.
Practise this questionQuestion
Question text
34 Superconductors are used to
[1 mark]
A increase the strength of electricity cables.
B make light dependent resistors.
C produce strong magnetic fields.
D increase the rate of heat energy transfer.
Mark scheme
Show the mark scheme
34 C produce strong magnetic fields.
How to answer it
Applications of Superconductors
What this question tests: This question assesses your knowledge of the practical real-world applications of superconductors, specifically their zero electrical resistance and ability to carry massive currents without energy dissipation, which is essential for generating intense magnetic fields (e.g., in particle accelerators and MRI scanners).
Question 3.4 [1 mark]
Select the correct use of superconductors
✅ Correct Answer: C
C: produce strong magnetic fields.
1 mark awarded for selecting option C.
💡 Key Knowledge
- A superconductor is a material that has a resistance of zero below a specific critical temperature (Tc).
- Because resistance is zero, very large currents can flow through superconducting coils without generating thermal energy (no I²R power losses).
- These powerful circulating currents are utilized to create extremely strong magnetic fields in devices like MRI scanners, particle accelerators (such as the LHC), and maglev trains.
🧠 Exam Technique
- Read through all options carefully and rule out distractors using fundamental physics principles.
- Superconductors do not mechanically strengthen cables (Option A), nor are they used for semiconductor components like LDRs (Option B).
- Option D contradicts the definition of superconductivity, as zero resistance prevents heat generation entirely rather than increasing heat transfer rates.
❌ Common Errors
- Confusing superconductors with thermal conductors (mistakenly choosing option D).
- Guessing option A under the misconception that "super" implies high mechanical strength rather than electrical properties.
Topics
Physics · 3.5 Electricity
Question and mark scheme from the AQA AS Level Physics examination, Paper 2, November 2021. QuestionVault is an independent revision resource; questions remain the copyright of the awarding body.