2024HSCExtended response

Q32

8 marks

Question

Many scientists have performed experiments to explore the interaction of light and matter.

Analyse how evidence from at least THREE such experiments has contributed to our understanding of physics.

Try the question before revealing the answer.

Solution

Criteria	Marks
Provides a detailed analysis using evidence from at least THREE experiments investigating the interaction of light and matter; provides a clear link between experimental evidence and greater understanding of physics	8
Provides analysis using evidence from experiments investigating the interaction of light and matter; provides a link between experimental evidence and greater understanding of physics	6–7
Provides evidence from experiments investigating the interaction of light and matter; relates evidence to a greater understanding of physics	4–5
Provides some information about evidence from an experiment AND/OR a link to physics	2–3
Provides some relevant information	1

Answers could include:

Reference to:

Black body radiation experiments and the development of quantum physics
Photoelectric experiments and the development of quantum physics
Spectroscopy experiments and the development of astrophysics and the atomic model
Polarisation experiments and the development of the wave nature of light
Interference and diffraction and the development of the wave model of light
Cosmic gamma rays and the development of theory of special relativity and/or the standard model.

Supplied marking guidance · human reviewed

Compare this with your working, not only your final sentence.

Syllabus alignment

Module 7 · The Nature of Light

Light: Wave ModelApply Malus's law to plane polarisation and evaluate its significance for the wave model.
Electromagnetic SpectrumUse emission, absorption and stellar spectra to identify elements and infer properties of stars.
Light: Wave ModelAnalyse diffraction and interference using double slits and diffraction gratings, and compare Newton's and Huygens' models.
Light: Quantum ModelExplain the photoelectric effect with photons, work function and conservation of energy.
Light: Quantum ModelAnalyse black-body radiation and Wien's law as evidence for a quantum model of light.

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