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IB Physics SL S2.2.2 Processing and Interpreting Data Questions

Process SL physics data with graphs and relationships, interpreting attenuation, proportionality, trends and departures from theoretical predictions.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Course
Physics SL
Level
SL

Exam points

  • Use ratios, gradients, graph shape and intercepts to test whether experimental data support a proposed proportional relationship.
  • Process tabulated measurements by calculating means, uncertainties and significant figures before drawing evidence-based conclusions.
  • Use plotted data and line-of-best-fit information to determine missing values, test hypotheses and compare experimental results.

IB Physics SL S2.2.2 Processing and Interpreting Data Questions question 1

[Maximum number: 3]

A group of students uses pressurized air to move a piston that forces a nail into a block of wood. A gauge is used to measure the pressure P of compressed air above atmospheric pressure. The nail enters the wood perpendicular to its surface.

Figure for Question IB Physics SL S2.2.2 Processing and Interpreting Data Questions question 1 — IB Physics SL

The students use a ruler to measure the length of the nail which remains above the surface of the wood as shown. The depth of the nail inside the wood is d. All necessary length measurements are recorded using a ruler with uncertainty ±1 mm\pm 1 \mathrm{~mm}.

Figure for Question IB Physics SL S2.2.2 Processing and Interpreting Data Questions question 1 — IB Physics SL

Question (a)

(a)

The students systematically increase the pressure and calculate d.

Table for Question (a) — IB Physics SL
[ 2 ]

Question (i)

(i)

By using two sets of data in the table, show that the relationship between d and P is not directly proportional.

[ 2 ]

Question (b)

(b)

The students suggest the following relationship between d and P :

d=kPd=k \sqrt{P}

where k is a constant.
To verify the relationship, the variation of d with P\sqrt{P} is plotted.
One data point is missing.

Figure for Question (b) — IB Physics SL
[ 1 ]

Question (i)

(i)

Determine the coordinates of the missing point using the original data set and plot it on the graph.

[ 1 ]
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