Syllabus Edition

First teaching 2023

First exams 2025

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Induction (HL IB Physics)

Exam Questions

3 hours48 questions
1a
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3 marks

Faraday’s law of electromagnetic induction can be written as: 

epsilon space equals space fraction numerator capital delta left parenthesis N ϕ right parenthesis over denominator capital delta t end fraction

(i)
Name the quantity represented by capital delta left parenthesis N ϕ right parenthesis.
[1]
(ii)
State Faraday’s law of electromagnetic induction in words.
[2]
1b
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4 marks

The table outlines the standard international (SI) units of the main quantities involved in electromagnetic induction.

Quantity

Symbol

SI unit

Magnetic flux

ϕ

 

Magnetic flux linkage

 

Wb turns

Electromotive force

 

 

Magnetic flux density

B

 

 

Complete the table by filling in the missing symbols and SI units.

1c
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4 marks

A galvanometer is an electromagnetic device that can measure small values of current by the deflection of a needle.

A coil is connected to a galvanometer centered at zero.

qu1c-fig-1

A magnet moves vertically into the coil so that the galvanometer deflects to the right as shown.

qu1c-fig-1b

In the spaces provided, sketch the expected observations of the galvanometer needle when

qu1c-fig-2
(i)
The magnet is held at rest in the coil.
[1]
(ii)
The magnet is removed from the coil more quickly than it entered
[3]
1d
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3 marks

As the student removes the magnet from the coil, the galvanometer shows a constant value of 1.5 mV for 2.0 s.

Calculate the change in magnetic flux linkage as the student removes the magnet from the coil.

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2a
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1 mark

The graph shows how magnetic flux linkage N capital phi passing through a coil of wire changes as time t progresses, as it moves into a uniform magnetic field.

qu2a-fig-1

State the quantity represented by the gradient of the graph.

2b
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2 marks

After a certain amount of time the coil of wire in part (a) has fully entered the region of uniform magnetic field and moves normally to the flux density within it.

The graph in part (a) is continued so that the graph looks like:

qu2b-fig-2-1

State and explain the value of the induced emf in the coil of wire after time, t0.

2c
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2 marks

The coil of wire in part (b) is made of 5000 turns of wire and has an area of 0.15 m2. The uniform magnetic field has a field strength of 2.5 T and is perpendicular to the coil face, such that the angle between the normal line to the coil face and the flux lines is 0º.

Calculate the magnitude of the magnetic flux linkage through the coil in the uniform magnetic field.

2d
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4 marks

The graph shows how the induced emf varies with time for a different coil of wire.

qu2d-fig-3-1

(i)
State the quantity represented by the area under the slope.
[1]
(ii)
Calculate the area under the slope, giving an appropriate unit with your answer.
[3]

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3a
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3 marks

When a coil of wire rotates in a uniform magnetic field, the magnetic flux is given by the equation

capital phi equals space B A cos left parenthesis theta right parenthesis

State the meaning of the following symbols and an appropriate unit for each.

(i)
B
[1]
(ii)
A
[1]

(iii)     θ

[1]
3b
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2 marks

The graph represents the variation of induced emf over the progression of time for coils A and B which rotate in the same uniform magnetic field.

qu3b-fig-1

For coils A and B

(i)
State which of the two coils experiences the largest maximum induced emf.
[1]
(ii)
Hence, or otherwise, state which coil has a faster rate of rotation.
[1]
3c
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1 mark

Sometimes the equation capital phi equals space B A cos left parenthesis theta right parenthesis is simplified to

capital phi equals space B A

State the relation between the coil and the magnetic field lines when the magnetic flux is simplified in this way.

3d
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4 marks

A rectangular coil with a magnetic flux of 0.15 mWb spins in a uniform magnetic field of flux density 0.50 mT.

Calculate the cross sectional area of the coil.

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4a
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3 marks

Lenz’s law is sometimes combined with Faraday’s law in order to explain important electromagnetic effects.

Choose words from the list below to complete the sentence.

attract          density          direction          linkage          oppose

The ..................... of an induced emf is always set up in such a way so as to ..................... the change in magnetic flux ..................... that causes it.

4b
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2 marks

Faraday’s law can be combined with Lenz’s law in the following mathematical equation

space epsilon space equals space fraction numerator negative N capital delta capital phi over denominator capital delta t space end fraction

State which aspect(s) of the equation shown corresponds to

(i)
Faraday’s law.
[1]
(ii)
Lenz’s law.
[1]
4c
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5 marks

Bar magnets are arranged vertically, with each magnet having a ring of a different material suspended above it.

   

09QDU_xf_qu4c-fig-1

An analysis of the subsequent motion of each ring involves considering the type of material of each ring, how it is made, and how this affects any induced emfs or currents.

Respond with Y (yes) or N (no) in the table below to complete the analysis of the situation.

 

Ring

Conductor

Emf induced?

Current induced?

 

P

N

N

 

 

Q

Y

 

 

 

R

Y

 

 

4d
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1 mark

Ring Q takes significantly longer to reach the bottom of the magnet compared to rings P and R.

State the law of electromagnetic induction which explains this observation.

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5a
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4 marks

A straight conductor of length l = 30 cm moves normally across a uniform magnetic field of flux density B = 2.0 T at a speed v.

qu5a-fig-1

Calculate the speed v the conductor would need to have in order to induce an emf of magnitude 1.5 V.

5b
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1 mark

The conductor in the diagram is now bent into a single loop of wire and moves normally across the same uniform magnetic field at the same speed v, as shown.

qu5b-fig-2

The induced emf in the single loop of wire is now 0 V. 

Explain why the induced emf in the single loop of wire is now 0 V.

5c
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3 marks

The single loop of wire shown in part (b) encloses an area of 7.2 × 10–3 m2.

Calculate the magnetic flux through the single loop of wire.

5d
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2 marks

Sketch a graph on the axes provided below to show how the magnetic flux linkage varies with time t as the single loop of wire is removed entirely from the uniform magnetic field. Assume the speed v stays constant.

qu5d--1

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6a
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5 marks

The following paragraph explains the operation of a basic a.c. generator.

An AC generator consists of a coil rotating in a ........................ field.

The ends of the coil are attached to ........................ rings that rotate along with the coil.

These touch ........................ that transfer the current into an external circuit.

The magnetic ........................ changes as the coil rotates and an ........................ is induced.

An AC generator converts ........................ energy into ........................ energy.

Complete the sentences using keywords from below.

You may use any keyword once, more than once, or not at all.

e.m.f.    flux    electrical    field    magnetic 
 
brushes    mechanical    slip    electric
6b
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1 mark

Outline the effect of the output if the frequency of an ac generator is increased.

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1a
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2 marks

A copper rod is placed in a region of uniform magnetic field. The rod is moved horizontally along two parallel conducting rails X and Y.

11-1-sq-1a-set-up-qn_hl-sq-medium

The rod lies at right angles to the direction of the uniform magnetic field. It moves at constant speed.

The rails are connected at one end by a thin copper wire.

Describe how an emf is induced in the rod. Refer to forces acting on the conduction electrons in the copper of the rod in your answer.

1b
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2 marks

State what is meant by rate of change of flux and apply it to this situation.

1c
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2 marks

The length of the rod is 0.8 m and it moves at a speed of 5.7 m s–1. The induced emf is 9 mV.

Determine the magnitude of the magnetic field strength.

1d
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3 marks

Explain how Lenz’s law relates to the rod moving on the rails.

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2a
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4 marks

A bar magnet attached to a spring is allowed to fall vertically from rest through a simple coil of conducting wire. The potential difference (pd) across the solenoid is measured using a datalogger.

11-1-sq-2a-set-up-qn_hl-sq-medium

The graph shows the variation of the pd across the coil with time.

11-1-sq-2a-graph-qn_hl-sq-medium

Explain the shape of the graph by

(i)
Making reference to both Faraday's and Lenz's laws.
[2]
(ii)
Considering the mass-spring system.
[2]
2b
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2 marks

The coil has 2200 turns.   

Calculate the magnitude of the maximum rate of change of magnetic flux.

2c
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3 marks

The magnet is displaced vertically so that it initially oscillates with simple harmonic motion. Apply Lenz's law to this situation.

2d
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3 marks

Outline how the simple harmonic motion of the oscillations would be affected by replacing the magnet with one of equal mass but with a greater magnetic field strength.

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3a
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4 marks

A vertical copper rod is attached to the mass of a mass-spring system so that it can be made to oscillate with simple harmonic motion with a time period T at right angles to a uniform magnetic field.

11-1-sq-3a-set-up-qn_hl-sq-medium

The graph shows the variation with time t of the horizontal displacement x of the rod.

11-1-sq-3a-graph-qn_hl-sq-medium

Sketch a graph to show

(i)
Variation with time t of the vertical velocity v of the rod.
[2]
(ii)
Variation with time t of the emf generated between the ends of the rod.
[2]
3b
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3 marks

The length of the rod is 25 cm and the magnitude of the magnetic field is 68 μT. At the equilibrium position the rod is moving at 5.1 m s−1.

Determine the magnitude of the maximum emf εmax ­between the ends of the rod.

Explain your reasoning.

3c
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3 marks

The frequency of the motion is doubled without any change in the amplitude of the motion.

State and explain the changes this causes to the time, t and the induced emf.

3d
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2 marks

Conducting wire is wrapped around a circular disk of diameter 10 cm to create a loop with 145 turns. The loop is held in a constant magnetic field with field strength 0.36 T.

Determine the magnetic flux through the loop when the angle between the disk and the magnetic field is 10o.

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4a
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4 marks

A toy car with a magnet attached so that the North pole faces upwards is released from the top of a ramp. The car rolls down the ramp at constant speed. An emf is induced in a coil of wire as the toy and magnet pass underneath it. 

11-1-sq-4a-set-up-qn_hl-sq-medium

The induced emf is recorded by a datalogger attached to the coil.

11-1-sq-4a-graph-qn_hl-sq-medium

The graph shows the variation of induced emf.

(i)
Determine the maximum rate of change of flux linkage in the coil.
[1]
(ii)
Explain the shape of the graph between points A and B.
[3]
4b
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2 marks

The length of the magnet is 3.0 cm and the diameter of the coil is 1.5 cm.

Using the graph, determine the speed of the car between positions A and B.

4c
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2 marks

The slope of the ramp is increased, making the car accelerate when released. It reaches point A at 1.86 s. 

Apply Faraday's Law to explain how this would affect the induced emf at points A and B.

4d
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4 marks

Sketch a graph to show the new induced emf as the magnet moves from point X to point B.

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5a
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3 marks

An electromagnetic braking system uses a metal disk, attached to the wheel of the vehicle so that they rotate together. An electromagnet is placed such that the poles are on either side of the rotating disk, but do not touch it.

11-1-5a-qun-electromagnetic-brake_hl-sq-medium

When the driver applies the brakes a direct current passes through the coil of the electromagnet.

Explain with reference to appropriate laws of electromagnetic induction how this design can produce a braking effect.

5b
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4 marks

Conventional braking systems use friction pads which are brought into contact with a rotating disk to slow down vehicles.

Distinguish between the electromagnetic and conventional braking systems, identifying at least two advantages and two disadvantage of the electromagnetic system.

5c
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3 marks

Induced current can be used in switching devices. A current in point P is made to flow in a clockwise direction when viewed from position O.

11-1-5c-qun-lenz-coils_hl-sq-medium

Outline how Lenz's law applies to the direction of the flow of induced current when the switch is opened and then closed.

5d
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3 marks

The coil at P has 50 turns and an area of 15.8 cm2. It produces a constant magnetic field of 0.26 T.  The two coils are identical. 

For coil Q

(i)
Determine the magnetic flux when Q is positioned at 45o to the field produced by P.
[1]
(ii)
Calculate and explain the induced emf when the magnetic field is changing at a rate of 4.0 T s−1.
[2]

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6a
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2 marks

The graph shows the variation with time of the power delivered by an ac generator.

11-2-sq-1c-qun_hl-sq-medium

Determine the frequency of rotation of the generator.

6b
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2 marks

Sketch a graph to show the power delivered when the frequency is halved.

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7
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2 marks

A coil rotates in a magnetic field with a frequency of 50 Hz.

11-2-sq-4c-question_hl-sq-medium

Determine the times on the graph at points A, B, C and D.

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1a
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5 marks

The diagram below is a representation of a simple dc electric motor. The armature consists of a single rectangular coil and rotates between the poles of a permanent magnet.

The connections between the coil and battery B are not shown. The split ring is labelled C.

ib-sq-11-1-hard-qu-1

For this circuit

(i)
Complete the circuit by drawing the missing components onto the diagram.
[1]
(ii)
State the direction of the motion of the coil.
[1]
(iii)
Describe how the connections from battery B to the split ring enable the coil to rotate continuously in one direction.
[3]
1b
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3 marks

An A.C. generator consists of a coil between two magnets. The coil starts in the vertical position and rotates.

State and explain the shape of the graph of e.m.f. generated by this configuration over time.

1c
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3 marks

A different coil of length 4050 mm and 3700 mm width is now used in the same generator in a magnetic flux density of 0.98 T. The coil has 62 turns and rotates at the same frequency as the previous coil, 25 Hz.

Calculate the magnitude of the e.m.f. generated by the coil when it moves through an angle of 2.0° from an initially horizontal position.

img_67472709f1d8-1

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2a
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5 marks

An unmanned probe is in orbit around Jupiter at right angles to the planet's magnetic field. The probe launches a remote measuring device which remains connected to it by a conducting cable.

When the probe and the device are at a distance L the cable is held in a straight line which is also perpendicular to Jupiter's magnetic field. 

ib-hl-hard-sq-2b

For the motion of the cable in the magnetic field

(i)
Sketch a labelled diagram to show the cable, field lines and direction of the force on the electrons within the cable.
[2]
(ii)
The magnetic field vector B is at an angle θ to the field lines. Deduce an expression for the motional e.m.f. which is induced in the conducting wire.
[3]
2b
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6 marks

This question is about the motional e.m.f. which can be induced in different situations.

A circuit is set up as shown and then the switch is closed so that current can flow. Observations are made for the first 100 ms.

ib-sq-11-1-hard-q2a

Explain the effects on the electromagnet of the switch being closed. The analysis should make reference to the expected changes in current, e.m.f. and energy.

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3a
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5 marks

In an experiment two metal rings A and B are dropped from the same height between two magnets. The rings are identical, apart from a small slit cut in B.

ib-sq-11-1-hard-q3a-questionib-sq-11-1-hard-q3a-question

Describe and explain the motion of A and B as they fall between the magnets. The use of sketches to illustrate is encouraged.

3b
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5 marks

In a thought experiment the variation of induced e.m.f. ε in a coil with time is considered.

ib-sq-11-1-hard-q3b-question-1

Students are asked to discuss the properties of the graph shown above to determine how it might be reproduced.

Use the axes provided to sketch a graph of the magnetic flux linkage through the conductor between t = 0 to t = t4.

qq

3c
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2 marks

The graph in part (b) was produced using a coil moving at constant speed into and then out of a uniform magnetic field. The motion is represented in the diagram.

 qu3c-fig-4

   

By analysing the stages of the motion explain why no induced e.m.f. is seen for the section t2 to t3 although the coil can be described as 'cutting magnetic field lines' at that time.

 

3d
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2 marks

An experiment is designed to model an aeroplane flying parallel to the Earth's surface at a constant speed v.

The wingspan of the plane is modelled by a thin metallic rod of length L = 75.0 cm which is connected to a voltmeter. The Earth’s magnetic field is at 70° to the vertical and has a flux density of 1.8 × 10–4 T.

Determine the speed at which the metal rod would need to be propelled to generate an emf of 0.15 mV across the ends.

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4a
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3 marks

A magnet is dropped through a vertical solenoid.

ib-sq-11-1-hard-q4a_1

On the axes provided sketch a graph of the expected e.m.f. as time progresses.

ib-sq-11-1-hard-q4a_2
4b
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3 marks

Explain the shape of the graph from part (a).

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5a
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4 marks

A generator in a hydroelectric plant features a coil rotating in a magnetic field with a constant angular velocity.  

exam-style-questions-_-s-cool-the-revision-website

The power output varies over time for a generator rotating with a maximum power output of P0 and a frequency of 20 Hz.

(i)
Sketch the variation of power output with time for a single complete revolution of the coil. Indicate any key values on your axes.

powergraph [2]

(ii)
Sketch the variation of voltage with time for a single complete revolution of the coil. Indicate any key values on your axes.

RgPOvFTM_11-2-voltage

[2]

5b
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4 marks

Using Faraday's Law, show that the new power output is 16P0 if the frequency of the rotation of the coil increases to 80 Hz.

 

You may use the following equation fraction numerator increment ϕ over denominator increment t end fraction space equals space minus omega B A space sin space omega t

5c
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2 marks

A graph showing the variation in power over time for a different hydroelectric generator is shown below. 

JfJrry1g_power-graph-part-c

In this generator, when the rate of flow of water from the dam doubles, the frequency of revolution of the coil also doubles.

On the diagram above, sketch a curve showing the new variation in power over time when the flow rate halves.

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