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CAIE IGCSE Physics 4.4 Electrical safety Question Bank

Practise explaining mains safety choices, from live-wire switching to fuses, earthing and protective devices in appliance circuits.

Syllabus
2026–2028
Course
Physics 0625

Exam points

  • explain how an earth wire and fuse protect a user if a metal case becomes live
  • choose a fuse rating just above the normal operating current from a given list
  • distinguish live, neutral and earth roles when deciding where switches and fuses go

Covered syllabus points

4.4.1—Hazards of: (a) damaged insulation (b)4.4.2—A mains circuit consists of a live4.4.3—Use and operation of trip switches and4.4.4—Why the outer casing of an electrical4.4.5—A fuse without an earth wire protects

4.4 Electrical safety question 1

[Maximum number: 4]

Fig. 7.2 shows an extension lead used to supply power to a 3 kW electric heater on a cool evening.

Figure for Question 4.4 Electrical safety question 1 — CAIE IGCSE Physics

extension lead designed
for use with a 25 W lamp

Fig. 7.2
State and explain three dangers with this arrangement.
danger 1
danger 2
danger 3

4.4 Electrical safety question 2

[Maximum number: 2]

Fig. 4.1 shows a heater used to warm the air in a room.

Fig. 4.1

Fig. 4.1

The power of the heater is 2.0 kW when it is connected to the mains supply with an e.m.f. of 230 V .

The plug connecting the heater to the mains supply is fitted with a fuse.

Fuse ratings of 3 A,5 A,10 A3 \mathrm{~A}, 5 \mathrm{~A}, 10 \mathrm{~A} and 13 A are available.

State which fuse is used. Explain your answer.
fuse
explanation

4.4 Electrical safety question 3

[Maximum number: 1]

Fig. 3.1 shows a mains electric heater used to heat a small room.

Fig. 3.1

Fig. 3.1

The metal outer casing of the heater is earthed. State why this is an important safety feature.

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