Exam-style question
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In the satellite-orbit evidence scenario, a satellite in circular orbit is compared with a free-fall calculation. Which option best applies the AQA A-Level Physics objective to calculate orbital speed and period for simple circular orbits. while avoiding mixing gravitational field strength with potential gradient?.
- A.field-case-49: Apply Calculate orbital speed and period for simple circular orbits. within Orbits of planets and satellites.
- B.field-case-49: Treat Orbits of planets and satellites as separate from Gravitational fields, so the measured field idea is not used.
- C.field-case-49: Choose a memorised equation without checking direction, sign, field geometry or units.
- D.field-case-49: Replace the A-Level fields reasoning with a broad GCSE label only.
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- The correct option is field-case-49: Apply Calculate orbital speed and period for simple circular orbits.
- within Orbits of planets and satellites.
Explanation
Why this works
It is correct because it keeps the reasoning inside Orbits of planets and satellites and answers the approved learning objective: Calculate orbital speed and period for simple circular orbits. The other options are weaker because they switch to the wrong fields concept, ignore the measured quantity, lose direction or sign information, or use a generic statement instead of A-Level Physics reasoning.
Common mistake
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