Forces — WJEC GCSE Physics
In summary: Forces is a key topic in WJEC GCSE Physics. Key exam tip: Always draw free body diagrams clearly to visualize resultant forces.
Exam Tips for Forces
- Always draw free body diagrams clearly to visualize resultant forces.
- Ensure units are consistent (e.g., converting cm to m for extension).
- Remember that pressure in a liquid increases with depth and density.
- When calculating moments, ensure the distance is the perpendicular distance from the pivot.
- Use vector notation where required to describe forces.
Common Mistakes
- Confusing mass and weight.
- Failing to resolve forces into components at right angles.
- Incorrectly identifying the distance used in moment calculations (must be normal to the force).
- Confusing elastic and inelastic behavior.
- Misinterpreting the direction of force in pressure calculations.
Marking Points
- Identification of interaction types: gravity, electrostatics, magnetism, and contact forces.
- Correct use of free body diagrams to represent forces on an object.
- Calculation of weight using W = mg.
- Distinction between elastic and inelastic distortion.
- Calculation of work done using W = F x d.
- Application of Hooke's Law (F = kx) and calculation of spring constant.
- Calculation of pressure in fluids using p = F/A and p = hρg.
- Calculation of moments using M = Fd.
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