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AQA GCSE · Question 03.1 · Energy
Figure 4 shows a person sliding down a zip wire.
Describe how the vertical height of the tower could be measured accurately.
Figure 4 shows a person sliding down a zip wire.
Describe how the vertical height of the tower could be measured accurately.
How to approach this question
Think about the practical steps you would take to measure a large vertical distance.
1. What measuring instrument would you use for a tall tower?
2. How would you ensure your measurement is truly vertical and not at an angle? Think of a simple tool that uses gravity to find the vertical line.
3. Describe the process from start to finish.
Full Answer
One method is to use a long tape measure from the top of the tower to the ground directly below it. A plumb line (a weight on a string) could be used to ensure the measurement is taken vertically.
To measure the vertical height accurately, you need a suitable instrument and a technique to ensure the measurement is vertical.
- **Method:** A long tape measure or a surveyor's laser measure could be used.
- **Accuracy:** To ensure the measurement is vertical, a plumb line (a mass on a string) can be dropped from the top of the tower. The tape measure is then held alongside the string to measure the distance to the ground. Alternatively, a set square could be used at the base to ensure the tape measure is perpendicular (at 90°) to the level ground.
Common mistakes
✗ Suggesting a 30cm ruler - this is not a suitable instrument for a large height.
✗ Just saying "use a tape measure" without explaining how to ensure the measurement is vertical.
✗ Describing how to measure the length of the zip wire, not the vertical height of the tower.
Practice the full AQA GCSE Physics Foundation Tier Paper 1
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