Question 9

From Physics HL Paper 2 (May 2025, TZ1)

  1. A bar magnet of mass 0.12 kg is suspended from a vertical spring of spring constant 7.4 N m⁻¹. The mass of the spring is negligible.

(a) For the magnet in the equilibrium position, calculate the elastic potential energy stored in the spring. [2]

The magnet–spring system performs simple harmonic motion in the vertical direction. The spring remains stretched all the time. The diagram shows how the elastic potential energy E_p stored in the spring varies with time t during one period of oscillation.

(b) (i) State and explain the direction of motion of the magnet at t = 0.2 s. [2]

(ii) Describe the energy transfers that take place between t = 0.2 s and t = 0.4 s. [2]

(c) (i) Show that the amplitude of the oscillation of the magnet is about 0.1 m. [3]

(ii) Calculate the maximum speed of the magnet. [2]

(iii) Determine the kinetic energy of the magnet at t = 0.15 s. [2]

(Question 9 continued)
A stationary horizontal coil is placed directly below the oscillating magnet.

Diagram illustrating a magnet oscillating above a coil, with labels for 'magnet' and 'coil'. The magnet has N and S poles indicated.
Diagram illustrating a magnet oscillating above a coil, with labels for 'magnet' and 'coil'. The magnet has N and S poles indicated.

(d) (i) Discuss two factors that affect the magnitude of the emf induced in the coil. In your answer, you should explain:
● how an induced emf can arise in the coil, and
● how each factor affects the magnitude of the emf. [4]

(ii) A resistor is now connected across the coil. The amplitude of oscillation of the magnet rapidly decreases.
Explain this phenomenon. [3]

Textbook topics in this question

Review the exact course sections assessed by each question part.

Mixed-topic question