Pearson Edexcel International GCSE (9–1) · PHYSICS · Unit
Energy Resources and Energy Transfers
175 practice questions
Topics covered
Practice questions
71–80 of 90 · Normal
Question 71
4 marks · Normal
Answer and see the solution →Describe how you could set up a simple experiment to show that a black container heats up faster in sunlight than a white one.
(a)[1 mark]List the apparatus you would use for this experiment.
(b)[2 marks]Describe what you would do in this experiment.
(c)[1 mark]State what you would measure to compare the heating effect.
Question 72
3 marks · Normal
Answer and see the solution →The demand for electricity changes at different times of day.
(a)[1 mark]State one time of day when electricity demand is likely to be at its highest and explain why.
(b)[2 marks]Name a type of power station that responds quickly to sudden increases in electricity demand. Explain why it can do this.
Question 73
1 mark · Normal
Answer and see the solution →Which of these power stations is LEAST able to meet sudden increases in electricity demand?
- A.Coal-fired power station
- B.Gas-fired power station
- C.Hydroelectric power station
- D.Wind farm
Question 74
4 marks · Normal
Answer and see the solution →The table shows the time it takes different types of power stations to start generating electricity after being turned on.
Type of power station Time to start generating (hours) Nuclear 12 Coal-fired 8 Oil-fired 4 Gas-fired 0.5 Hydroelectric 0.03 (a)[2 marks]Which power station is best for meeting a sudden, short-term increase in demand? Explain your answer.
(b)[2 marks]Suggest one reason why nuclear power stations are not used to meet sudden increases in demand.
Question 75
4 marks · Normal
Answer and see the solution →A power company is deciding how to best prepare for regular changes in electricity demand throughout each day.
(a)[1 mark]Describe one predictable change in electricity demand that occurs on most days.
(b)[1 mark]Suggest one way the company can plan to supply extra electricity during these predictable times.
(c)[2 marks]Explain why fossil fuel (coal, oil, or gas) power stations are often run continuously, even at night when demand is lower.
Question 76
2 marks · Normal
Answer and see the solution →Hydroelectric power stations are considered useful for balancing supply and demand in a national grid.
Describe two reasons why they are particularly effective for this purpose.
Question 77
3 marks · Normal
Answer and see the solution →A popular sport event ends on TV, and millions of people immediately turn on their electric kettles to make a drink.
Explain how electricity suppliers ensure that the extra demand can be met instantly. In your answer, refer to the types of power stations involved.
Question 78
3 marks · Normal
Answer and see the solution →Nuclear power stations are used to supply a large proportion of electricity in some countries.
Explain two reasons why nuclear power stations are not suitable for meeting sudden changes in electricity demand.
Question 79
4 marks · Normal
Answer and see the solution →Electricity demand is higher in winter than summer.
(a)[1 mark]State one reason why electricity demand is higher in winter.
(b)[3 marks]Explain how the national grid ensures there is enough electricity to supply everyone during periods of high demand.
Question 80
6 marks · Normal
Answer and see the solution →Wind farms and nuclear power stations are both used to generate electricity in different countries.
(a)[2 marks]Describe the energy transfers involved in generating electricity using a wind turbine.
(b)[2 marks]Nuclear power stations can provide 'clean' energy but have some disadvantages.
State two disadvantages of nuclear power stations when compared to wind farms.
(c)[2 marks]Explain, with reference to supply and demand, why a country cannot rely entirely on wind power to meet its electricity needs.