The comprehensive

Practical guide and solution

For
Secondary schools
All mock questions, pre-necta
and
Physics practical review
necta from 2011-2021

Prepared by sir. Datius R. Didas Contact; 0625770090

1
 CONTENTS
NATURE OF GRAPH ACCEPTED IN PHYSICS EXPERIMENT. ........................................................... 4
NECTA 2021 PHYSICS 2A ........................................................................................................................ 7
Answer necta 2021 -2A. .......................................................................................................................... 8
NECTA. 2020- 2A ...................................................................................................................................... 13
Solution For necta 2020-2A Question 1. .............................................................................................. 13
NECTA 2020 -2B........................................................................................................................................ 18
Answer necta 2020 -2B Question 1....................................................................................................... 19
Answer necta 2020 -2B Question 2....................................................................................................... 21
NECTA 2019 .2A....................................................................................................................................... 24
Answer for question .1. ......................................................................................................................... 25
Answer for question 2 ........................................................................................................................... 28
NECTA 2018 2A......................................................................................................................................... 30
Solution for question 1. ......................................................................................................................... 31
Answer for question .2 .......................................................................................................................... 34
NECTA 2017 2B ......................................................................................................................................... 37
Answer for question .1 .......................................................................................................................... 37
Answer for question .2 .......................................................................................................................... 40
NECTA 2017 2A......................................................................................................................................... 43
Answer for question .1 .......................................................................................................................... 44
Answer for question .1 .......................................................................................................................... 48
NECTA 2016 2A......................................................................................................................................... 50
Answer for question .1 .......................................................................................................................... 50
Answer for question .2 .......................................................................................................................... 53
NECTA 2016 2B ......................................................................................................................................... 55
Answer for question .1 .......................................................................................................................... 55
Answer for question .2 .......................................................................................................................... 58
NECTA 2015 2A......................................................................................................................................... 58
Answer question 1................................................................................................................................... 59
Answer for question 2. .......................................................................................................................... 62
NECTA 2014 2A......................................................................................................................................... 64

2
 answer. for qn 1 ..................................................................................................................................... 65
Solution question 02. ............................................................................................................................. 67
NECTA 2013 2A......................................................................................................................................... 68
Answer question 2 ................................................................................................................................. 73
(g) (I) the table of results ....................................................................................................................... 73
NECTA 2013 2B ........................................................................................................................................... 74
Answer for question 2. .......................................................................................................................... 78
NECTA 2012 2A......................................................................................................................................... 80
NECTA 2011-2A ........................................................................................................................................ 82
Answer for question 1. ........................................................................................................................... 82
Answer for question 2. ........................................................................................................................... 85

3
1. MECHANICS
In mechanics we deal with
 simple pendulum
 Hooke’s law
 Equilibrium
 Determine the density of substance

2. LIGHT
In light we deal with
 Plane mirror
 Glass block
 Rectangular prism.

3. CURREMT ELECTRICITY
 Ohm’s law
 Metre bridge
 Potentiometer
4. DENSITY AND RELATIVE DENSITY

NATURE OF GRAPH ACCEPTED IN PHYSICS EXPERIMENT.

(i) Y=MX

Y=mx

(ii) Y=MX+C

4
 Y=mx+c

(iii) Y=MX-C

Y=mx-c

(iv) Y=-MX+C

5
 Y=-mx+c

(v) Y=-MX-C

Y=-mx-c

6
 NOTE. The point on a graph joined by a best line are
(a) It can cut all point

Y=mx

(b) can distribute all point equally

Y=mx+c

NECTA 2021 PHYSICS 2A

1. You are provided the following experiment

7
 (a) Tie a thread to a given pendulum bob. Fix a wooden rod as shown
in figure 1 and mark its reach point N. then remove the rod.

a Retort stand
Thread

N
Wooden rod

Bench/Table

Pendulum bob

Figure 1

(a) Measure a distance a=20cm from point N to the point of suspension of the pendulum. Displace the
bob to a small distance and release it so that it performs to and fro motion. Determine the time ,t
for twenty complete oscillation and hence the periodic time T
(b) Repeat the procedures in 1(b) for values of a=40cm, 60cm, 80cm, and 100cm
Questions
i. Tabulate the values of a, t, T and T2
ii. Plot a graph of T2 (sec2) against a (cm)
iii. Find the slope, S of the graph
iv. Determine the value of ‘b’ from the equation T2=S(a + b)
v. What does the value of ‘b; represent?

Answer necta 2021 -2A.

i) Table of results
a(cm) Time Period T2(sec2)
t(s) T(s)
20 21.80 1.09 1.10
40 28.10 1.41 1.99
60 33.25 1.66 2.76
80 37.70 1.82 3.53
100 41.68 2.08 4.33
ii) The graph of T2 (sec2) against a (cm)

8
 THE GRAPH OF T2 (sec2) AGAINST a,(cm)

SCALE

Vertical scale: 1cm represent 0.25s2

T2 (sec2) Horizontal scale: 1cm represent 10cm

4.5

4.0

3.5

3.0

2.5
A (50, 2.4)

2.0
∆𝑇2(S2)

1.5
∆a (cm)

1.0

0.5

Length
20 40 100 a(cm)
60 80 120 140

(vi) From the graph

∆𝐿 𝑐𝑚
Slope S=
∆𝑡 2 𝑠 2
Point to consider A (50, 2.4) and B (25,1.5)
2.4−1.5 𝑠𝑒𝑐 2
S=
50−2.5 𝐶𝑚

9
 Slope (S) =0.36𝑠 2 /𝑐𝑚 = 0.04𝑠 2 /𝑐𝑚
(vii)
T2= S (a + b)
T2= Sa + Sb

Y=m x+c
Thus
M=S
Where s-slope and c- y-intercept
C=Sb
𝐶 0.4 𝑠𝑒𝑐 2
b= = 𝑠𝑒𝑐2
=10cm
𝑆 0.04
𝑐𝑚
b=10cm
(v) The value of ‘b’ represent the length of wooden rod which is 10cm.

5. You are provided with two dry cells of e.m.f E, a key, K , an ammeter, A
voltmeter, v, rheostat, Rh, unknown resistor, R and a 4Ω resistor.
Proceed as follows
(a) Set up the circuit as shown in figure 2
k E Rh/

A
4Ω

V
Figure 2
(b) Close the key and adjust the rheostat so that the ammeter reading is
0.1A. Record the voltmeter reading V in volts.
(c) Repeat the procedures in 2(b) above for the values of ammeter reading of 0.3A,
0.5A, 0.7A and 0.9A.
Questions
1 1
(i) Tabulate your results including the value of and
I V
1 1
(ii) Plot a graph of against
I V
(iii) Fund the slope of the graph
(iv) Determine the value of unknown resistance R
10
 (v) What is the effect of connecting the resistor, R as shown in figure 2?
Answer.

(i) Table of results

I(A) V 1 −1 1 −1
𝐴 𝑉
I V
0.1 0.2 10.00 5.00
0.3 0.6 3.33 1.67
0.5 1.0 2.00 1.00
0.7 1.4 1.43 0.71
0.9 1.8 1.11 0.56

1 1
(ii) The of graph of I against
V

(iii) From the graph

1
∆ 𝐴−1
I
Slope M= 1
∆ 𝑉−1
V
Point to consider A (3, 6) and B (1.5, 3)
6−3 𝐴−1
M=
3−1.5 𝑉 −1
M=2Ω
The Slope (M) =2Ω

(iv) The value of unknown resistance R.

From
𝑅1 .𝑅
𝑅𝑇 =
𝑅+𝑅1
4𝑅
2=
𝑅+4
8 + 2𝑅 = 4𝑅
8 = 4𝑅 − 2𝑅
8 = 2𝑅
𝑅 = 4Ω
Hence unknown resistance R=4Ω

(v) Effect of connecting resistance R

-it increase the amount of current flowing in a circuit since two resistor are
connected in parallel.

1 1
(ii) The of graph of I against V

𝟏 𝟏
THE GRAPH OF 𝑨−𝟏 AGAINST 𝑽−𝟏
𝐈 11𝐕
𝟏 −𝟏 SCALE
𝑨
𝐈 Vertical scale: 1cm represent 0.5𝐴−1
10.0
Horizontal sclaie: 1cm represent0.5 𝑉 −1

9.0

8.0

7.0

6.0 A (3, 6)

5.0 𝟏 −𝟏
∆ 𝑨
𝐈
4.0

3.0
𝟏 −𝟏
∆ 𝑽
𝐕
2.0

1.0

𝟏 −𝟏
𝑽
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 𝐕

12
NECTA. 2020- 2A
1. . You’re provided with a retort stand. String of 110cm, a stop watch, 50grams mass.
Cork pads and a metre rule.
(a) Set up the apparatus shown in figure 1.

(b) set the string at a length, L=10cm, displace the 50g mass and release to make it
oscillate and then determine the time, t taken for complete twenty oscillation (n=20)
(c) Repeat the procedures in (b) for the values of L=20cm, 30cm, 40cm and 50cm. and
then.
i) Tabulate their results including the values of t2
ii) Plot a graph of t2 (sec2) against length(cm)
iii) Find the slope of the graph,
iv) Determine the value of ‘Z’ given that, t2= 4𝜋2n2L+c
Z
v) State the significance of ‘Z’
vi) State the aim of this experiment

Solution For necta 2020-2A Question 1.

Table of results
Length, L(cm) Number of Time t(s) t2(s2)
Oscillation(n)
10 20 14 196

20 20 19 361

30 20 24 576

13
 40 20 27 729

50 20 30 900

vi. Graph

THE GRAPH OF t2 (sec2) AGAINST LENGTH, L (cm)

Scale.

Vertical scale: 1cm represent 120sec

Horizontal scale: 1cm represent 3.75cm

t2 (sec2)
108

960

840

720 B (45,780)

600
∆t2(S2)
480

360

240 ∆𝐿 (cm)

120

10 20 30 40 50 60
Length, L(cm)

(i) From the graph

∆𝐿 𝑐𝑚
Slope S=
∆𝑡 2 𝑠 2
Point to consider A (10, 220) and B (45,780)
780−220
S=
45−10

14
 Slope (S) =16.0𝑠 2 /𝑐𝑚 or 1600𝑠 2 /𝑚
(ii)
t2= 4𝜋2n2L+c
Z
Y=m x+c
Thus
4𝜋 2 𝑛2
M= 𝑧
Where m-slope
4𝜋 2 𝑛2 4𝜋 2 202
Z= =
𝑀 1620
Z=9.8696𝑚/𝑠2
(iii) Z - it help to pull everything toward the centre of the earth
-it help people to walk
-it help to know the depth of the ocean and the height of the mountain

2. You are provided with 2 dry cells connected in series E, a resistance box R, a voltmeter V
and a key K.
Proceed as follows:
(a) Arrange the apparatus as shown in Figure 2

(b) b) Set R = 1 Ω in the resistance box, close the key K, read and record the value of V
on the voltmeter.
(c) Repeat the procedure in (b) above for values of R = 2 Ω, 3 Ω, 4 Ω and 5 Ω, and
record the values of the corresponding V in each case,
Questions.
1
i. Tabulate their results including the values of
V
1
ii. Plot a graph of against R.
V
iii. Find the slope ‘S’ of the graph.
1
iv. Record intercept as P and R intercept as Q.
V
P
v. Determine the value of the ratio and state how the value obtained is related to
Q
the slope, S of the graph

15
Solution For necta 2020-2A Question 2.
1
I. Table of results including
V
Resistance Voltage 1 −1
𝑉
R(Ω) (V) V
1 1.5 O.65
2 1.8 0.56
3 1.9 0.50
4 2.0 0.44
5 2.1 0.35
(iii) From the graph
1
∆ 𝑉 −1
V
Slope S=
∆R Ω
Point to consider A (1.5, 0.625) and B (4.3, 0.4)
0.625−0.4 𝑉 −1 −1
S= =-0.08(Ω𝑉
1.5−4.3 Ω
−1
S= -0.08(Ω𝑉
Slope (S) =-0.08(Ω𝑉 −1
1
(iv) Record intercept as P and R intercept as Q.
V
1
The intercept as P =0.74 𝑉 −1 and R intercept as Q=9.4Ω
V
(v) The ratio between P and Q are
P 0.74 𝑉 −1 −1
= = 0.08(Ω𝑉
Q 9.4Ω
Thus the value obtained is related to the slope of the graph

−1
Which is 0.08(Ω𝑉

16
 1
(ii) The graph of V against R.
1
THE GRAPH OF 𝑉 −1 AGAINST R (Ω)
V
SCALE

Vertical scale: 1cm represent 0.05 𝑉 −1

1 −1
𝑉 Horizontal scale: 1cm represent 1.0(Ω)
V
0.9

0.8

0.7

A (1.5, 0.625)
0.6

0.5 1 −1
∆ 𝑉
V

0.4 B (4.3, 0.4)

∆ R (Ω)

0.3

0.2

0.1

R (Ω)
2 4 6 8 10 12 14

-0.1

17
NECTA 2020 -2B
1. You are given a retort stand with its accessories, two pieces of wood, a thread, pendulum
bob, stop watch and a meter rule.
Proceed as follows;
(a) Hang the pendulum bob on one end of a 90 cm length of thread and clamp the
other end firmly between two small pieces of wood as shown in Figure 1.

(b) Displace a pendulum bob to a small distance and release it such that, It begins to
swing to and fro motion. Determine the time t for twenty (20) complete
oscillations and hence the corresponding periodic time, T.
(c) Repeat the procedures in 1 (b) for the values of L=70 cm, 50 cm, 30 cm and 10
cm.
Questions;
2
(i) Construct a table of results that includes the values of T
2 2
(ii) Plot a graph of L (cm) against T (sec )
(iii)From the graph determine the slope G
(iv) Find the value of the acceleration due to gravity, g.

18
 Answer necta 2020 -2B Question 1
(i) Table of results

Length, L(cm) 90 70 50 30 10
Time for 20 oscillation (s) 38 32 28 22 12
Period T(s) 1.9 1.6 1.4 1.1 0.6
T2 (s2) 3.6 2.6 2.0 1.2 0.4
(iii) Slope from the graph

∆𝐿 𝑐𝑚
Slope S=
∆𝑇 2 𝑠 2
Point to from the graph A (1.0, 25) and B (3.0, 75)
75−25 𝑐𝑚 50
S=
3.0−1.0 𝑠2
= 2
= 25𝑐𝑚/𝑠2
Slope (S) =25𝑐𝑚/𝑠 2 or 0.25𝑚/𝑠 2

𝐿
(iv) From the given relation T=2𝜋√
𝑔

𝑔
L=
4𝜋 2
𝑇2

Y=m x
Thus
𝑔
M= 2 Where m is a slope
4𝜋
g= 4𝜋 𝑀 = 4𝜋 2 × 25 = 985.9𝑐𝑚/𝑠 2
2

g=985.9𝑐𝑚/𝑠 2 or 9.86𝑚/𝑠 2
The value of acceleration due to gravity, g is 9.86𝑚/𝑠 2

(v) The importance of acceleration due to gravity in daily life activities.

 it help to pull everything toward the centre of the earth’s
 -it help people to walk
 -it help to know the depth of the ocean and the height of the mountain

(ii) The graph of L (cm) against T2 (s2)

19
 THE GRAPH OF L (cm) AGAINST T2 (s2)

SCALE

Vertical scale: 1cm represent 5cm

Length,
L (cm) Horizontal scale: 1cm represent 0.25 s2

90

80
B (3.1, 75)
70

60

∆L (cm)
50

40

30

20 ∆T2 (s2)

10

T2 (s2))
0.5 1.0 2.5
1.5 2.0 3.0 3.5
-10

20
2. Were provided with a resistance box R, a dry cell E, a switch S, a jockey J and a Centre-
zero galvanometer. They were required to determine the value of the unknown resistance
X by means of a metre bridge as follows:
(a) Set up the circuit as shown in Figure 2.

(b) Set R =1Ω, close the switch, slide the jockey over the metre bridge wire until the
galvanometer reads zero. Read and record the length L1.Also read and record the
corresponding length L2.
(c) Repeat the procedures in 2 (b) for values of R = 2Ω, 3Ω, 5Ω and 7Ω and record the
values for L1 and L2 in each case.
Questions.
𝐿
(i) Tabulate your results including the values of 𝐿1
2
𝐿
(ii) Plot a graph of R against 𝐿1
2
(iii)Find the slope S of the graph
(iv) Determine the value of the unknown resistance X by showing clearly how
you arrive at your answer
Answer necta 2020 -2B Question 2.
𝐿1
i. Tabulate your results including the values of 𝐿2
R(Ω) 1 2 3 5 7
L1(cm) 80.0 66.7 57.0 44.5 36.5
L2(cm) 20.0 33.3 43.0 55.5 63.5
𝐿2 0.25 0.50 0.75 1.25 1.74
𝐿1

21
 𝐿1
(ii) The graph of R against
𝐿2

𝐿1
THE GRAPH OF R (Ω) AGAINST
𝐿2
SCALE

Vertical scale: 1cm represent 0.5Ω

Resistance,
Horizontal scale: 1cm represent 0.125
R (Ω)

9.0

8.0 B (2.0, 8.0)

7.0

6.0
∆R (Ω)

5.0

4.0
𝐿1
∆
𝐿2
3.0

2.0

1.0

𝐿1
𝐿2
0.5 1.0 2.5
1.5 2.0 3.0 3.5
-1.0

From the graph

∆𝑅 Ω
Slope M= 𝐿
∆ 2
𝐿1

22
 Point to consider A (1.0, 4.0) and B (2.0, 8.0)
8.0−4.0 Ω
M= = 4Ω
2.0−1.0
M=4Ω
Slope (M) =4Ω
(iv) From the theory of this experiment

𝑋 𝑅2 𝐿2
= 𝑇ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝑅2 = 𝑋
𝐿1 𝐿2 𝐿1
Y= M X

Slope (m) =unknown resistance X=4Ω

23
 NECTA 2019 .2A
1. The aim of this experiment is to determine the Density of liquid, L by
means of spiral spring.
Proceed as follow
(a) Assemble the apparatus as shown in figure 1 with zero mark of the
meter rule at upper most end. Record the reading of the position of a
pointer on the scale as yo.

0
Cramp Meter rule

Spiral spring pointert

Retort stand

100 cm

Table
Figure 1
(b) Hung the 50g mass on a spiral spring and record the reading on the
meter rue as y. find the extension, e=y-y0.
(c) Without removing the 50g mass, repeat the procedure 1(b) for
m=100g,150g, 200g, and 250g mass to obtain a total of five reading.
Remember to calculate extension, e in each observation.
(d) Measure and record the mass of empty piece of bottle labeled Q
(e) Replace the masses with of bottle labeled Q filled with 100cm3 of liquid L. record
the resulting extension as e1
Questions.
(i) Prepare the table of results including the values of m, y and e
(ii) Plot the graph of mass m(g) against extension e(cm)
(iii)Find the gradient G of the graph
(iv) What will be the extension produced by mass of 1.0kg
(v) Use the information from the graph you have drawn to determine the
density of liquid L in its SI units.

24
 Answer for question .1.
(i) Table of results for m, y and e:
yo=34.6cm
e=y-yo
Mass of empty piece of bottle (mo) =13.8g

m(g) y(cm) e(cm)

50 43.9 9.3
100 62.6 28.0
150 72.0 37.4
200 81.3 46.7
250 90.7 56.1

(ii) From the graph

∆𝑚 𝑔
Slope G=
∆𝑒 𝑐𝑚
Point to consider A (40, 165) and B (19, 50)
165−50 𝑔
G=
40−19 𝑐𝑚
G= 5.48g/cm
Slope (G) =5.48g/𝑐𝑚 or 5.5g/c𝑚

(ii) The graph of m (g) against e (cm)

25
 THE GRAPH OF MASS, m (g) AGAINST EXTENSION e, (cm)
SCALE

Vertical scale: 1cm represent 25g

Mass Horizontal scale: 1cm represent 5cm

M (g)
450

400

350

300

250

200

A (40, 165)
150

100
∆𝑚 𝑔

50
∆e (cm)

Extension
10 20 50 e(cm)
30 40 60 70
-50

(viii) From the graph and gradient

∆𝑚 = 𝐺 × ∆𝑒
M=Ge but m=50+m
Thus
m=Ge-50

26
 m=0.55e-50 – this is the equation of the graph
So from the equation of the graph, the extension produced by mass of 1kg
(1000g) was
1000g=5.5e-50g
5.5e=1000g+50g
5.5e=1050g
e=191cm.
The extension produced by 1kg mass was 191cm
(v) When the masses were replaced by a piece of bottle labelled Q with liquid
L, it produce an extension (e1) of 30.5cm. From the graph this extension
corresponds to the mass of 115g. Therefore mass of piece of bottle filled with
liquid L was 115g.
Mass of liquid L=115g-mo=115g-13.8g=101.2g
𝑚𝑎𝑠𝑠 101.2𝑔
So density of liquid L is given by =
𝑣𝑜𝑙𝑢𝑚𝑒
= = 1.012𝑔/𝑐𝑚3
100𝑔
3
The density of liquid L=1.012𝑔/𝑐𝑚
Hence liquid L was water since the density of water is 1.0𝑔/𝑐𝑚3

2. You are required to determine the value of unknown resistance X using

Meter Bridge.
Proceed as follows

(a) Connect the circuit in figure 2, where R is a resistance box, E is a dry

cell, k is a key, G is a Centre-zero galvanometer, J is a jockey and X is
unknown resistance.
X

R
5Ω

L1 L2
K E
Figure 2

27
(b) Set R=1Ω, close the key K, slide jockey over the metre bridge wire
until the galvanometer read zero. Read and record length L1. Also read
and record corresponding length L2.
(c) Repeat the procedures in 2(b) for R=2 Ω,3 Ω,4 Ω and 5 Ω and record
the value for L1 and its corresponding value of L2 in each case.
Questions.
(i) Tabulate your results including the value of L1/L2
(ii) Plot the graph of R against L1/L2
(iii) Deduce the slope ,s of the graph
(iv) Find the value of unknown resistance X. show clearly how
you arrived to your answer.
Answer for question 2.
(i) Table of results for R, LI, L2, and L1/L2
R(Ω) L1(cm) L2(cm) L1/L2
1 34.8 65.2 0.5
2 51.6 48.4 1.1
3 61.5 38.5 1.6
4 68.1 31.9 2.1
5 72.7 27.3 2.7
(iii) From the graph
∆𝑅 Ω
Slope (S) =
∆L1/L2
Point to consider A (3, 5.6) and B (1, 1.8)
5.6−1.8 Ω
S= 3−1
S= 1.9Ω=2Ω
Slope (S) =2Ω

28
 (ii) The graph of R (Ω) against L1/L2

THE GRAPH OF R (Ω) AGAINST L1/L2

A (3, 5.6)
SCALE

Vertical scale: 1cm represent 0.5Ω

R (Ω))
Horizontal scale: 1cm represent 0.25

4.5

4.0

3.5
∆𝑅 Ω

3.0

2.5

2.0
∆ L1/L2

1.5

1.0

0.5

L1/L2)
0.5 1.0 2.5
1.5 2.0 3.0 3.5
-0.5

(iv) From the general equation of meter bridge

𝐿1 𝑅1
= ………………. 𝑖
𝐿2 𝑅2

29
Now R1=R and R2=equivalent resistance of resistor X and 5Ω (in parallel)
5𝑋
This was given by R2=
5+𝑋
From equation of the graph

𝐿1 𝑅
= … … … … … … . 𝑖𝑖
𝐿2 𝑆
Compare equation (i) and (ii)
5𝑋
S=R2=
5+𝑋
5𝑋
1.9= = 9.5 + 1.9𝑋 = 5𝑋
5+𝑋
3.1X=9.5
X=3.06=3.1Ω
The value of unknown resistance X was 3Ω.

NECTA 2018 2A.

1. You’re provided with iron metal, extensible string of 2cm, stopwatch, and
retort stand, clamp and cork pads. Set up the apparatus as shown in the figure 1

Retort stand α

B A

Figure 1

Table

30
 Proceed as follows:
(a) Tie a piece of thread to an iron metal ball to form a pendulum
(b) Suspend the pendulum bob from two clamped piece of wood

(c) Adjust the length L of a pendulum to 140cm

(d) Displace and set a ball to start oscillating through a small angle
(e) Record the time taken for 10 complete oscillation by using stop watch
(f) Repeat this experiment for the value of L=120cm, 100cm, 80cm, 60cm and 40cm and
record your data as shown in table 1.
Length, L(cm) 140 100 80 60 40
Time for 10 oscillation (s)
Period T(s)
T2 (s2)
Question

(i) Complete the table with data from the experiment

(j) Plot the graph of T2 against L
(k) Find slope
𝒍
(l) From the relation T=𝟐𝝅√ , find the value of g
𝒈

(m)Give the physical meaning of g

(n) Mention two sources of error and any precaution taken in this experiment
(o) Mention two effect of g.

Solution for question 1.

THE AIM OF EXPERIMENT WAS TO DETERMINE ACCELERATION DUE TO
GRAVITY.

(i) Table of results

Length, L(cm) 140 100 80 60 40

Time for 10 oscillation (s) 23.76 21.99 20.08 15.55 12.70
Period T(s) 2.376 2.199 2.008 1.555 1.270
T (s )
2 2
5.64 4.03 3.22 2.42 1.61
(ii) Slope from the graph

∆𝑇 2 𝑠 2
Slope S=
∆𝐿 𝑐𝑚
Point to from the graph A (40, 2) and B (100, 4.4)
4.4−2 𝑠2
S=
100−40 𝑐𝑚
= 0.04𝑠2 /𝑐𝑚

31
 Slope (S) =0.04𝑠 2 /𝑐𝑚 or 4𝑠 2 /𝑚

(ii) The graph of T2 against L

THE GRAPH OF T2 (s2) AGAINST ‘L (cm)

SCALE

Vertical scale: 1cm represent 0.5 s2

Horizontal scale: 1cm represent 10 cm

T2 (s2)

9.0

8.0

7.0

6.0

5.0

4.0
B (100, 4.4)

3.0
∆T2 (s2)
2.0

1.0 ∆L (cm)

Length
L (cm)
20 40 100
60 80 120 140
-1.0

𝐿
iv) From the given relation T=2𝜋√
𝑔

32
 4𝜋 2
T2= 𝐿
𝑔
g
Y=m x
Thus
4𝜋 2
M= Where m is a slope
𝑔
4𝜋 2 4𝜋 2
g= = 0.04 = 985.9𝑐𝑚/𝑠 2
𝑚
g=985.9𝑐𝑚/𝑠 2 or 9.86𝑚/𝑠 2
The value of g is 9.86𝑚/𝑠 2
(v) The physical meaning of g is acceleration due to gravity. This show that the
location on the earth where the experiment was conducted, if air resistance is
neglected, anything left to fall freely under gravity would fall at9.86𝑚/𝑠 2 . This
means that its final velocity would increase by 9.86𝑚/𝑠 2 in each second.

(vi) The two sources of error in this experiment where.

 Poor timing when starting and stopping the stop watch to count the number of
oscillations. This was prevented by being more careful and active.
 Mistake in reading the stop watch. This was prevented by doing enough
practices so as to be familiar with reading stop watch.

(Vii) Two effect of g are;-

 Cause all object on the earth to have weight toward the Centre of the earth,
therefore to remain on the earth surface without flying a way into spaces.
 Causes objects like artificial satellites and the moon to revolve the earth in
specific orbit, with the moon helping to prevent shaking when earth rotate
2. You are provided with glass block, drawing pins, soft drawing board, 4 optical pins and
white paper and drawing equipment. Proceed as follows
(a) Fix the white sheet of the paper on drawing board using drawing pin
(b) Put the glass block with one of its largest surfaces top most on top of the plane
paper
(c) Trace the outline of the glass block on the paper by using pencil. Remove the glass
block and draw a normal extending to opposite as shown in figure 2

33
 P1
P2
i

P3
X
P4
Figure 2

(d) Draw a line making an angle of incident i=300. Stick two pins, P1and P2 in a
reasonable distance a part on the draw line.
(e) Replace the glass bock on the outline and stick two more pin, P3 and P4 at a
positions which will make all pins, p1,p2,p3,and p4 appear to be straight line, as
seen when observed through a glass block from opposite side.
(f) Remove the glass block and draw the complete path of the ray through the block.
Measure and record the angle of refraction r and distance X
(g) Repeat the procedure in part (a) to (f) for angles i=400,500.600.and 700 and record
your data as shown in the table 2.
Table 2
i r Tan r X(cm)
0
30
400
500
600
700
(h) Measure and record the dimensions of glass block as follows
Block length………….width………………..thickness……..
(i) Using data in the table
i) Plot the graph of x against tan r
ii) Determine the gradient of the graph
(j) Explain what the value of the gradient means
(k) States sources of errors in this experiment
(l) Mention any two precaution to be taken in doing the experiment.

Answer for question .2

34
(g) Table of results
I r Tan r X(cm)
300 190 0.34 1.7
400 250 0.47 2.3
500 300 0.58 2.9
600 340 0.67 3.4
700 380 0.78 3.9

(h) The dimension of the glass block

Block length 7.5cm width 5cm thickness 1.8cm

(i) (ii) The gradient from the graph

∆𝑥 𝑐𝑚
Gradient m=
∆ tan 𝑟 °
Point to from the graph A (0.7, 3.5) and B (0.3, 1.5)
3.5−1.5 𝑐𝑚 2
S=
0.7−0.3 °
= 0.4 = 5𝑐𝑚

The gradient of the graph is 5cm.

(j) The value of the gradient was the width of glass block used

i) The Plot the graph of x against tan r.

35
 THE GRAPH OF X (cm) AGAINST ‘tan r(0)

SCALE

Vertical scale: 1cm represent 0.5cm

Horizontal sclaie: 1cm represent 0.10

X (cm)

9.0

8.0

7.0

6.0

5.0

4.0
A (0.7, 3.5)
3.0
∆X (cm)
2.0

∆tan r(0)
1.0

0.2 Tan r(0)

0.4 0.6 0.8 1.0 1.2 1.4
-1

(k) The sources of error in this experiment are:

 Parallax in looking at the position of the pins through the glass block.
 Poor vision of the experiment
(j) The precaution to be taken

36
  To use straight pins to make it easier to see them in straight line through the
block, bent pin can cause parallax error.
 To avoid placing the pins very close along the line so as to reduce parallax error
 Use room with enough light and well ventilation.

NECTA 2017 2B
1. The aim of the experiment in figure 1 is to determine the effective mass of spring
and its spring constant K.
(a) Suspend the spiral spring to the retort stand.
(b) Load the lower end of the spring with a mass of M=200g and then pull the
mass slightly vertically downwards through a short distance from an
equilibrium position and release it so that the system executes vertical
oscillation of small amplitudes.
(c) Use a stop watch to record the time t (sec) for 20 vertical oscillation and
then determine the periodic time T(sec), hence determine T2(sec2)
Retort stand.

Spiral spring

Figure 1

(d) Repeat this procedure for other four (4) masses in steps of 50g
(e) Tabulate the results
(f) It is found that the period T of oscillation and the spring constant K are
T2 M+S
related by the equation 4π2
= , where S is the effective mass of the
K
spring.
i) Plot a graph of T2 against M
ii) Calculate the slope of the graph
iii) Using given equation and the graph, determine the value of S and
K

Answer for question .1

37
1. (e) The table of results
Mass(g) Time (s) T(s) T2(s2)
200 24.74 1.24 1.50
250 27.46 1.37 1.90
300 29.94 1.50 2.25
350 32.20 1.61 2.60
400 34.32 1.72 2.90
(f) ii) Slope from the graph

∆𝑇 2 𝑠 2
Slope m=
∆𝑀 𝑔
Point to from the graph A (325, 2.4) and B (100, 0.85)
2
2.4−0.85 𝑠 1.55
m=
325−100 𝑐𝑚
= 225
= 0.0069𝑠2 /𝑔
Slope (m) =0.0069𝑠 2 /𝑔or 6.9𝑠 2 /𝑘𝑔
(iii) From the given equation
T2 M+S
=
4π2 K
M+S
𝑇 2 = 4𝜋 2 ( )
K
4𝜋 2 4𝜋 2
2
𝑇 = 𝑀+ 𝑆
𝐾 𝐾
By comparing the equation in straight line
Y = mx + c
4𝜋2
Slope (m) = = 6.9𝑠 2 /𝑘𝑔
𝐾
4𝜋2
K= = 5.7𝑁/𝑚
6.9
Then the value of S
4𝜋2
Thus c-y-intercept = 𝑆
𝐾
𝐶𝐾 0.15×5.7
Hence S= = = 0.0217𝐾𝑔 = 21.7𝑔
4𝜋2 4𝜋2
The value of S=21.7𝑔

38
 i) The Plot the graph of T2(s2) against M(g)

THE GRAPH OF T2 (s2) AGAINST M (g)

SCALE

Vertical scale: 1cm represent 0.25s2

T2 (s2) Horizontal sclaie: 1cm represent 50g

4.5

4.0

3.50

3.0

2.5 A (325, 2.4)

2.0
∆ T2 (s2)
1.5

1.0
∆M (g)
0.5

100 M (g)
200 300 500 600
400 700
-1

39
2. The aim of experiment was in figure 2 is to determine the crical angle A of given
glass block.
(a) Fix the white sheet of the paper on drawing board using drawing pin
(b) Place the glass block provided on a sheet of a paper with its largest face upper most
and trace its outline EFGH.
(c) Remove the block and on its outline, draw a perpendicular BI.
(d) Draw a ray AB such that angle β=350

(e) block and draw a normal extending to opposite as shown in figure 2

A
P1
P2
E β B F

C
P3 G
H I
P4
Figure 2
D
(f) Replace the glass block
(g) Stick two pin P1 and P2 along AB and looking through the glass block from the
opposite face HG. Stick two other pins P3 and P4 in the line with P1 and P2 .remove
the glass block.
(h) Draw a straight line DC through P3 and P4 and join up C to B
(i) Measure the angle of refraction r and then calculate the value of cosβ and sin r
(j) Repeat the procedure (d) to (h) for value of β=450,550,650and 750
(k) Tabulate your results
(l) Plot a graph of sin r against cosβ
(m) Determine the gradient G of the graph
(n) Calculate the value of the critical angle A from G=sin A.

Answer for question .2

(k) Table of results
β r Sin r Cos β
350 330 0.54 0.8
450 280 0.47 0.7
550 230 0.39 0.6
650 160 0.28 0.4
750 100 0.17 0.3

40
 The formula to be used without performing experiment was
𝑐𝑜𝑠𝛽
𝑟 = 𝑠𝑖𝑛−1
1.5
i) The Plot the graph of sin r against cosβ

THE GRAPH OF sin r AGAINST cosβ

SCALE

Vertical scale: 1cm represent 0.050

Sin r Horizontal scale: 1cm represent 0.050

1.0

0.9

0.7

0.6

0.5

0.4

0.3 A (0.45, 0.3)

0.2
∆ Sin r

0.1
∆ Cos β

0.1 Cos β
0.2 0.3 0.5 0.6
0.4 0.7
-1

41
(m) The gradient from the graph

∆ sin 𝑟°
Gradient (G) =
∆𝑐𝑜𝑠𝛽 °
Point to from the graph A (0.45, 0.3) and B (0.15, 0.1)
0.3−0.1 ° 0.2
S=
0.45−0.1 °
= 0.3 = 0.67

The gradient of the graph is 0.67

(n) The value of the critical angle A from G=sin A.

A=Sin-1(G)

A=sin -1(0.67) =420

The Value of critical angle A=420

42
NECTA 2017 2A
1. The aim of experiment in figure 1 is to determine the young’s modulus, Y of a metre
rule.

0cm

Retort stand

G-clamp Pointer

M
Meter rule
100cm
Figure 1
(a) Clamp a meter rule along the bench with its graduated face upwards
and with a length L about 85cm projecting beyond the edge of the
bench. Record the length L
(b) Attach the pointer to the free end of the meter rule and note its position
X0 on a meter rule clamped vertically on a retort stand when unloaded.
(c) Suspend a load M of 50g a distance 1.0cm from the free end. Note the
new position X of the pointer and then deduce the depression, d, of the
pointer on the meter rule scale.
(d) Repeat procedure (c) above for M equal to 100g, 150g, 200g and 250g.
(e) Tabulate your results
(f) Plot the graph of d against M
(g) Find the slope, S, of the graph.

43
 (h) Use the Vernier caliper to measure the breadth, d, and the thickness, to
the meter rule.
(i) Calculate young’s modulus for the wooden meter rule from the
expression
𝑆𝑏 1 𝐿 3
= ×
4𝑔 𝑌 𝑡
(j) Mention two sources of error and two precautions taken in this
experiment.
Answer for question .1
(e) Table of results
M(g) 50 100 150 200 300
d(cm) 16.5 23.7 30.5 36.5 41.7

(g) From the graph the slope, S, is given by:

The slope, S, from the graph

∆𝑑 𝑐𝑚
Slope, S=
∆𝑀 𝑔
Point to from the graph A (150, 30) and B (75, 20)
30−20 𝑐𝑚 10
S=
150−75 g
= 75 = 0.13𝑐𝑚/𝑔 = 1.3𝑚/𝑘𝑔

The Slope, S, of the graph is1.3𝑚/𝑘𝑔

(h) The breadth ‘b’ of meter rules was 2.6cm, and thickness, t, was 0.5cm.

(i) From the given equation;

𝑆𝑏 1 𝐿 3
= ×
4𝑔 𝑌 𝑡
4𝑔 𝐿 3
𝑌= ×
𝑆𝑏 𝑡
Where, L-length of the ruler projecting beyond the table =85cm=0.85m

b=2.6cm=0.026m, t=0.5cm=0.005m, and g=10m/s2

44
 Thus,
4×10 0.85 3
𝑌= × =5.8× 109 𝑁/𝑚2
1.3×0.026 0.005

The young’s modulus Y=5.8× 109 𝑁/𝑚2

(f) The graph of d (cm) against mass M (g)

45
 THE GRAPH OF d(cm) AGAINST M (g)

SCALE

Vertical scale: 1cm represent 5cm

d (cm) Horizontal scale: 1cm represent 25g

45

40

35

30 A (150, 30)

25 ∆d (cm)

20
∆ M (g)

15

10

50 M (g)
100 150 200 250 300 350
-1

(j) The two sources of errors could be:

 Parallax error due to reading scale of the meter rule

46
  Loosely attached meter rule in a clamp which can lead to fault reading of
length, d.
The precaution
 Parallax error can be prevented by placing eye perpendicular over the scale
when reading the length.
 Loosely held meter rue can be avoided by ensuring the ruler was well
clamped.

2. The aim of this experiment is to determine the refractive index of Ո of a

glass block.
(a) Fix the plane sheet of paper provided on a soft board using optical
pins.
(b) Place a glass block on the sheet of paper so that the largest face is
topmost as shown in figure 2 and trace the outline of the glass
block. P1

P2i
A o B

C P3 D
P4
Figure 2
(c) Stick pins p1 and p2 in the soft board in such a way that the angle of
incidence I is 250 and make sure that AO is less than one third of
AB.
(d) Place p3 and p4 so that they may appear to be in the line with the
images of p1 and p2 as observed through face CD of the block.
(e) Remove the block and trace the ray through it.
(f) Measure and record the distance L
(g) Replace the block and repeat procedures (c) to (f) for the angle of
incidence i=350,450,550and 650

47
 (h) Tabulate your results including the values of sin2i and 1/L2
(i) Plot a graph of sin2i against 1/L2
(j) Determine the slope, S, of your graph and y-intercept c1 on the of
sin2i axis.
(k) Find the values of Ո from the relation Ո= 𝑐1 . And the breath of the glass
−𝑆
block from the relation b= ∩

Answer for question .1

(h) Table of results
io L(cm) Sin2i0 1/L2 (cm-2)
25 6.5 0.18 0.023
35 6.8 0.33 0.022
45 7.0 0.50 0.020
55 7.5 0.67 0.018
65 8.0 0.82 0.016

(i) From the graph the slope, S, is given by:

The slope, S, from the graph

∆𝑠𝑖𝑛2 𝑖°
Slope, S=
∆1 𝐿2 𝑐𝑚−2
Point to from the graph A (10, 1.4) and B (18, 0.6)
1.4−0.6 ° 0.8
S= = =-100𝑐𝑚2
10−18 ×10−3 𝑐𝑚−2 −8 ×10−3

The Slope, S, of the graph is-100𝑐𝑚2

The intercept C1=2.3
−𝑆
(k) From the given equations Ո= 𝑐1 and b= ∩

Thus refractive index Ո=√2.3=1.5

−𝑆 − −100
The breadth b= ) = b= = 6.7𝑐𝑚
∩ 1.5

The value of b=6.7𝑐𝑚

i) The Plot the graph of sin2i0 against 1/L2

48
 THE GRAPH OF sin2 i0 (ͦ) AGAINST 1/L2 (cm-2)

SCALE

Vertical scale: 1cm represent 0.20

Sin2i0 Horizontal scale: 1cm represent 2×10-3(cm2)

3.6

3.2

2.8

2.4

2.0

1.6

1.2

∆ Sin2i (0)
0.8
A (18, 0.6)
0.4 ∆1/L2 (cm ) -2

1/L2 × 10−3 (cm-2)

4 8 20
12 16 24 28
-0.4

49
NECTA 2016 2A
1. The aim of this experiment in figure 1 is to determine the mass Mo of the meter rule provided.

y
x
Prism

Figure 1
50g

(a) Place a meter rue provided on the edge of a prism. Balance the meter rule and record
the value L0
(b) Hang a 50g mass on the meter rule as shown above at a point such as X=5cm. move
the meter rule until it balances. Record the value of y when the meter rule is
balanced.
(c) Move 50g mass to a position where X=10cm, 15cm, 25cm, 30cm and 40cm. measure
the corresponding values of y for each values of X when the arrangement is balanced.
(d) Plot the graph of y against X
(e) Determine the slope, S, of your graph and calculate the mass Mo of the meter rule
𝑆𝑀𝑜
using the relationship,
50
+𝑆 =1
(f) From your graph, find the value of y when X=0 and call it yo. Calculate the value of
𝑦
constant K using the equation K=𝑋0 𝐾 + 50
0
(g) What is the physical meaning of the constant K
(h) State one source of error and one precaution to be taken in doing this experiment.

Answer for question .1

(c) Table of results for y and x but the value of L0=50cm.

Y(cm) 37 38 39. 43 44 48

5 10 15 25 30 40
X(cm)
(d) The graph of y (cm) against mass x (cm)

50
 THE GRAPH OF y (cm) AGAINST x (cm)

SCALE

Vertical scale: 1cm represent 5cm

Y (cm) Horizontal scale: 1cm represent 5cm

A (35, 47)
45 ∆ Y (cm)

∆ X (cm)
40

35

30

25

20

15

10

10 X (cm)
20 30 40 50 60 70
-5

(e) From the graph the slope, S, is given by:

The slope, S, from the graph

51
 ∆𝑌 𝑐𝑚
Slope, S= Point to from the graph A (37, 47) and B (20, 42)
∆𝑋 𝑐𝑚
47−42 𝑐𝑚 5
S= = =0.3
37−20 𝑐𝑚 17

The Slope, S, of the graph is 0.3

Then from the given equations
𝑆𝑀𝑜
+𝑆 =1
50
50 1−𝑆 50 1−0.3
Thus M0=
𝑆
= = 116.7𝑔
0.3

From the graph, when x=0, the value of yo=35cm.

𝑦0 50 35
Given. K= 𝐾 + 50 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝐾 = 50
= 116.7𝑔
𝑋0 1−35
50

(g) Constant k was the same as MO, Both give the mass of meter rule which is equal to
116.7g

(h) the sources of error in this experiment was parallax error due to failure to
approximate balance the meter rule on the edge of the prism, which can happen
unknowingly if any object on the experiment table touched one end of the rule. Its
precaution of this experiment was to make sure that the meter rule absolutely
balanced on the edge of the meter rule by its own.

2. You are provided with a potentiometer, a dry cell, a key, a jockey and a voltmeter
(a) Connect potentiometer to a cell and key in series
(b) Connect zero end of the potentiometer to the positive terminal of the voltmeter.
(c) Connect the negative terminal of the voltmeter to a pencil jockey through a long
connecting wire.
(d) Close the key and record potential difference by pressing the jockey at 10cm
interval of the length L as well as potential difference V
(e) Repeat the experiment for five(5) different lengths of potentiometer wire and
record the corresponding potential difference
(f) Tabulate your results as shown in the following table.
Potential difference (v
Length (cm 10 20 30 40 50 60

52
 (g) Plot a graph of potential difference, V against L
(h) Determine the slope of the graph
(i) What is the nature of the graph represent the current flowing through the circuit
(j) Give the aim of experiment and state method used
(k) Mention two expected sources of errors and two precautions to be taken in this
experiment.

Answer for question .2

(f) Table of results

Potential difference (v) 0.08 0.10 0.11 0.12 0.14 0.16
Length (cm) 10 20 30 40 50 60
(h) The slope, S, from the graph

∆𝑉 𝑉𝑜𝑙𝑡𝑠
Slope, S=
∆𝐿 𝑐𝑚
Point to from the graph A (48, 0.14) and B (24, 0.10)
0.14−0.10 𝑉
S= =1.6×10-3V/cm
48−24 𝑐𝑚

The Slope, S, of the graph is 1.6×10-3V/cm

(i) The nature of the graph was straight line.

(j) Thus RαL

R=KL and slope=V/L

Also from ohms law; v=IR

V V V 1 1
I= = = × = slope ×
R KL L K K
Slope=IK

Thus the slope of the line represented current, I was current and R was resistance.

d) The graph of V) against mass L (cm)

53
 THE GRAPH OF V (Volts) AGAINST L (cm)

SCALE

Vertical scale: 1cm represent 0.01volts

V (Volts) Horizontal scale: 1cm represent 5cm

0.18

0.16

0.14 A (48, 0.14)

0.12 ∆ V (Volts)

0.10
∆ L (cm)

0.08

0.06

0.04

0.02

10 L (cm)
20 30 40 50 60 70
-0.02

(k) The aim of this experiment was to show that ohm’s law could be expressed in terms of
length of conductor, the method used was potential divider.

Two expected sources of errors were;

 Loose connections, this can be reduced by securing all connection of the circuit.

54
  Sliding a jockey contact continuously over the wire of potentiometer instead of
touching it at various positions until the required voltage is obtained.

NECTA 2016 2B

1.You are provided with a knife edge, a meter rule whose mass m is about 70g and unknown
mass M of the solid.
(a) Balance the meter rule graduated face upwards on the knife edge with the solid of
unknown mass M suspended at a distance d of 10cm from the zero end of the meter
rule as shown in figure 1.
y x
d

A knife edge
M

Figure 1

(b) Measure and record the distance x and y where y is a distance of the knife edge
from the zero end of the meter rule.
(c) Repeat procedures (a) and (b) for the values of d equal to 15cm, 20cm, 25cm, 30cm,
and 35cm.
(d) Tabulate your results including the values of (x-y) and (y-d)
(e) Plot graph of (x-y) against(y-d)
(f) Determine the slope, S, of the graph
𝑆𝑚
(g) Calculate the mass M of the solid from the equation,
2
= 𝑀, where m is the mass
of the meter rule.
(h) What is the aim of experiment?
(i) Use the mass of the solid obtained in 1(g) to find the relative density of the solid
assuming that when the solid is immersed in water its mass become 42g, and state
the principle applied in this case.
(j) State any possible

Answer for question .1

55
(d) Table of results.
d (cm) 10 15 20 25 30 35
37.7 39.2 40.8 42.3 43.8 45.4
Y(cm)
62.3 60.8 59.2 57.7 56.2 54.6
X (cm)
24.6 21.6 18.4 15.4 12.4 9.2
x-y(cm)
27.7 24.2 20.8 17.3 13.8 10.4
y-d(cm)

(e) From the graph the slope, S, is given by:

The slope, S, from the graph

𝑋−𝑌 𝐶𝑚
Slope, S=
𝑦−𝑑 𝑐𝑚

Point to from the graph A (22.5, 19) and B (12, 10)

19−10 9
S= =10.5=0.85
22.5−12
The Slope, S, of the graph is 0.9
𝑆𝑚
(g) Given 2
=𝑀
Where m, is the given mass of meter rule, 112.6g and M is the mass of solid.
0.9×112.6𝑔
M=
2
= 50.7𝑔
(h) The aim of experiment was to determine the unknown mass of solid M
(i) Weight of solid in air W=50.7g×0.01N/g=0.507N
Apparent weight of solid in water (AW) =42.5×0.01=0.425N.
Up thrust (U) =W-AW=0.507-0.425=0.082N.
𝑊 0.507
𝑅. 𝐷 = = = 6.18
𝑈 0.082

The relative density of solid was 6.18

(j) A possible sources of error was parallax error due to reading scale of a meter rule.

56
 THE GRAPH OF X-Y (cm) AGAINST Y-d (cm)

SCALE

Vertical scale: 1cm represent 5cm

X-Y (cm)
Horizontal scale: 1cm represent 2.5cm

45

40

35

30

25

20 A (22.5, 19)

15
∆ X-y (cm)

10
∆ Y-d (cm)

5 Y-d (cm)
10 15 20 25 30 35
-5

57
2. The aim of experiment is to determine the resistivity of a wire Z provided by using a meter
bridge.
R Z

G
A L1 L2
B

E K
Figure 2
(a) Connect the given apparatus as shown in figure 2 with ends of the wire Z
connected at the right hand gap of the bridge.
(b) Find the balancing point of the meter bridge circuit with jockey J when the values
of the known resistance R is Ω
(c) Read and record the length L1 and L2 as indicated in the diagram in figure 2
(d) Repeat the procedures (a) to (c) for the values of R=2 Ω, 3 Ω, 5 Ω and 8 Ω. Record
their corresponding length L1 and L2
(e) Record your results in a suitable table including L1/L2
(f) Plot a graph of R against L1/L2
(g) Determine the gradient, G of your graph.
(h) Measure the length L of the wire Z given and its diameter D
𝜋𝐷 2 𝐺
(i) Calculate the resistivity of the wire Z from the expression L=
4𝜌

Answer for question .2

NECTA 2015 2A
1. Assemble the apparatus as shown in the figure 1 with zero mark of the scale of the
ruler at the bottom of the retort stand.

58
 100cm

Meter rule
Spiral spring

pointer

Scale pan

Retort stand
0cm

Figure 1

Record the reading of the position of the pointer on the scale of the meter rule when
the scale pan is empty. Record it as d0. Put the mass of 20g to the scale pan and record
the pointer reading d. find the extension e=do-d. repeat the above procedures for the
mass of 40g, 60g, 80g and 100g.
a. Tabulate your values by making a column of mass on the scale pan, pointer
reading d and extension e=do-d.
b. Plot a graph of mass against extension.
c. Find the slope, s, of the graph.
d. Read the extension when the values of the mass is equal to 55g
e. Use the graph to determine the mass when the extension is 3cm?
f. Suggest a suitable title of the experiment.
g. What is your conclusion?
h. List two possible sources of errors and three ways of minimizing these errors.
(25 marks
Answer question 1.
(a) the table of results
do=76.5cm
Mass (g) 20 40 60 80 100
d(cm) 73.1 70.0 66.0 63.0 59.0
e=do-d(cm) 3.4 6.5 10.5 13.5 17.5
(c) from the graph the slope, S, is given by:

59
 The slope, S, from the graph

∆𝑚 𝑔
Slope, S=
∆𝑒 𝑐𝑚
Point to from the graph A (12, 70) and B (6, 35)
70−35 𝑔 35
S=
12−6 cm
= 6
= 5.83𝑔/𝑐𝑚

The Slope, S, of the graph is5.83𝑔/𝑐𝑚

(d) from the graph , when mass was equal to 55g the extension was 9.5cm=10cm
(e) from the graph, when extension was 3cm the mass was 16g
(f) the suitable title of this experiment was TO DETERMINE THE RELATIONSHIP
BETWEEN MASS AND EXTENSION PRODUCED BY A SPIRAL SPRING.
(g) the conclusion drawn fro this experiment was ‘the extension produced by spiral spring
increase with an increase in strength force extended on it due to masses.
(h) the two possible sources of error was
 Failure to read correctly the scale meter rule (parallax error)
 Loosely attached meter rule in a clamp and spiral spring which can lead to fault
reading of length, d.
The precousion to be taken in this experiment was
 Parallax error can be prevented by placing eye perpendicular over the scale when
reading the length.
 Loosely held meter rue can be avoided by ensuring the ruler was well clamped.

(b) the graph of m(g) against extension,e(cm)

60
 THE GRAPH OF m (g) AGAINST EXTENSION, e(cm)

m (g) SCALE

Vertical scale: 1cm represent 5g

100
Horizontal scale: 1cm represent 2cm

90

80

70 A (12, 70)

60

50 ∆ M (g)

40

∆e (cm)
30

20
16

10

9.5 e (cm)
4 8 20
12 16 24 28

1. The aim of this experiment is to determine the resistance of an electrical conductor using an
ammeter and a voltmeter

61
a) Connect the circuit as shown in Figure 2. Close the key, K. Adjust the rheostat Rh so
that a small current passes through the conductor of unknown resistance Rx.
b) Record this current I and the potential difference V between the ends of Rx.
c) Adjust the rheostat again to give a slightly higher current through Rx. Measure the
current I and the potential difference V as in 2(b).
d) Repeat the experiment so as to give a total of five readings. Tabulate your results as
shown in the following table.
Current I (A) Potential difference V (volts)
0.1
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
e) Plot the graph of V against I.
f) Determine the slope of the graph.
g) What is the physical meaning of the slope?
h) Deduce the value of Rx.
i) State the law applied in the experiment.
j) Mention any two conditions which govern the law stated in 2 (i)
k) State any two sources of errors and any precaution taken in this experiment.
(25 marks)

Answer for question 2.

(d) The table of results
Formula to obtain accurate data was V=IR Where R=2Ω as a slope
Current I(A) 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5
Potential difference V(volts) 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1.0

62
 (e) The graph of V against I

THE GRAPH OF “V” (Volts) AGAINST “I” (A)

SCALE

Vertical scale: 1cm represent 0.1V

V (Volts)
Horizontal scale: 1cm represent 0.05A

1.8

1.6

1.4

1.2

1.0

A (0.45, 0.9)
0.8

0.6 ∆V (Volts)

0.4

0.2 ∆I (A)

0.1 I (A)
0.2 0.3 0.5 0.6
0.4 0.7
-0.2

∆𝑉 𝑉𝑜𝑙𝑡𝑠
(f) From the graph, the slope S=
∆𝐼 𝐴

63
 Point to from the graph A (0.45, 0.9) and B (0.15, 0.3)
0.9−0.3 𝑉 0.6
S=
0.45−0.15 A
= 0.3 = 2Ω

The Slope, S, of the graph is2Ω

(g) The slope of the graph was the resistance 0f a conductor.

(h) From the graph. Rx=slopes=2Ω
(i) The law that governed in this experiment was ohm’s law, which states that ‘at
constant temperature and other physical factor the current pass through a
conductor is directly proportional to the potential difference across its end’
(j) The conditions were;
 The conductor should be subjected at constant temperature.
 The conductor should be under strain (not elastic body)

(k) Sources of error and its precaution

 Loosing connection which could affect the value of current, this can be reduced by
ensuring all connection were well secured
 Parallax error due to reading scale of voltmeter and ammeter and this can be reduced
by being familiar with the scale of ammeter and voltmeter before recording data,

NECTA 2014 2A
1. You are provided with a metre rule, a knife edge, and two strings of length 100cm each,
weight A of masses 20g and weight B of unknown mass. Proceed as follows:
a) Locate and record the centre of gravity G of the metre rule by balancing on the knife
edge.
b) Suspend the 20g mass on the hand at 10cm mark and adjust2A the position of weight
B on the hand side of the knife edge until the metre rule balances horizontally.
c) Read and record the values of distance of 20g mass and weight B as ‘a’ and ‘b’
respectively.
d) Repeat the procedure in 1 (b) when 20g mass is at 15cm, 20cm, 25cm and 30 cm.
e) Draw the diagram for your experiment.
f) Tabulate your results.
g) Plot a graph of ‘a’ against ‘b’.

64
 h) What is the nature of the graph?
i) Determine the slope of your graph.
j) Use the slope to calculate the mass of B.
k) Name and state the principle governing this experiment.
l) Suggest the aim of this experiment.
(25 marks)

answer. for qn 1.

(e) a b

20g B

The diagram the experiment

(f) The table of results

a(cm) 40 35 30 25 20
b(cm) 16 14 12 10 8

(h) The nature of the graph was straight line

) From the graph the slope, G, is given by:

The slope, G, from the graph

∆𝑎 𝐶𝑚
Slope, S=
∆𝑏 𝑐𝑚

Point to from the graph A (15, 37.5) and B (5, 12.5)

37.5−12.5 25
S=
15−5
= = 2.5
10
The Slope, G, of the graph is 2.5
(f) The graph of ‘a’ against ‘b’

65
 THE GRAPH OF “a” (cm) AGAINST “b” (cm)

SCALE

Vertical scale: 1cm represent 2.5cm

a (cm)
Horizontal scale: 1cm represent 2.5cm

45

40
A (15, 37.5)
35

30

25
∆a (cm)

20

15

∆b (cm)
10

5 b (cm)
10 15 20 25 30 35
-5

2. You are provided with a white sheet of paper, drawing board, plane mirror with holders,
transparent ruler, protractor, optical pins, office pins and thumb pins. Proceed as follows:
a) Put the drawing paper on the drawing board using thumb pins and draw two straight
lines AB and CD to enclose an angle of  = 100 . Draw the line through O making 750
with AB. Then insert two optical pins P and Q on this line (see Figure 1)

66
b) Place the reflecting surface of the mirror along AB. Place other optical pins R and S to
appear in straight line with images of P and R. Remove the pins R and S and join the
line ORS.
c) Turn the mirror through an angle  = 100 so that its reflecting surface lies along CD.
Stick pins T and U to appear in line with the images of P and Q. Join the line OUT
.Record the angle 0 formed by RS and UT.
d) Repeat the experiment for  = 150, 200, 250, and 300
e) Tabulate your results.
f) Plot a graph of 0 against 0
g) Determine the slope of your graph.
h) Find the reciprocal of the slope.
i) What does the answer in 2(h) represent?
j) From your graph, deduce the relationship between 0 and 0.
Note: Attach your diagrams with the answer booklet

Solution question 02.

67
 NECTA 2013 2A
1. You are provided with a metre rule, a knife edge, and two strings of length 100cm each
and two weights W1 and W2 of masses 50g and 100g respectively. Proceed as follows

a) Balance a metre rule on a knife edge, put a mark and write G at the balancing point
using a piece of chalk or a pencil. Measure and record the length l , width w and
thickness l of a metre rule using a vernier caliper
b) Place the metre rule on a knife edge so that the knife edge is at 60cm of your metre
rule (see Figure 1(a). Suspend weight W2 of 100g on the right hand side of the knife
edge. Adjust W2 until the metre rule balances horizontally. Read and record lengths
“b” and “c” seen in Figure 1 (a).

i. Suspend weight W1 of 50g on the left hand side of the knife edge at the
position 47cm and adjust weight W2 until the metre rule balances horizontally
as seen in Figure 1(b). Read and record the lengths “a” and “b”.

68
 ii. Repeat the procedures in (b) (t) by adjusting the position of W1 to the left at
the interval of 3cm to obtain other four (4) readings.

c) Tabulate your results as show in Table 1.

d) Plot a graph of “o” against “a”

e) What is the nature of the graph?
f) Calculate the slope S of the graph
𝑊
g) (I) Read the b- intercept, given that b = sa + Xc
𝑊2
𝑊
ii. What does c represent in your graph?
𝑊2
𝑊𝐶
iii. Calculate the value of W using the relation W2 = what does W represent?
9.5𝑐𝑚

𝑙𝑥𝑤𝑥𝑡
h) i. Find the value of the ratio p =
𝑚

ii. Note: The mass of a meter rule can be obtained by calculations.

iii. What is the physical meaning of the value of P?

i) State a possible source of error in this experiment.

j) How can you minimize error in 1(i).

69
k) State the aim of this experiment.

(25 marks)

Answer question 1

(c) The table of results

The value of l=100cm, w=2.5cm, t=0.5cm, G=50cm, c=10cm and b=11.2cm

a(cm) 13 16 19 22 24

b(cm) 18 19 21 22 24
(e) The nature of graph was straight line with positive slope and y-intercept.
(f) From the graph the slope, G, is given by:

The slope, S, from the graph

∆𝑏 𝐶𝑚
Slope, S=
∆𝑎 𝑐𝑚

Point to from the graph A (22.5, 20) and B (12.5, 15)

20−15 5
S= = = 0.5
22.5−12.5 10
The Slope, G, of the graph is 0.5
(f) The graph of ‘a’ against ‘b’

70
 THE GRAPH OF “b” (cm) AGAINST “a” (cm)

SCALE

Vertical scale: 1cm represent2.5cm

b. (cm)
Horizontal scale: 1cm represent 2.5cm

45

40

35

30

25
A (22.5, 20)
20
∆b (cm)
15
∆a (cm)

10

5 a (cm)
10 15 20 25 30 35
-5

𝑊
(g) (i) from b = sa + X c ………………(i) and y=mx+c
𝑊2

Thus the value of b-intercept, b=10cm

Then
𝑊
(ii) The value of X c represent b-intercept.
𝑊2

71
 𝑊
(iii) 𝑊2 X c=b-intercept=10cm

𝑤2 𝑏 100×9.5
W=
𝑐
= = 95𝑔
10

The value of W was the mass of the metre rule at the center of gravity, which are 95g.

𝑙 𝑥 𝑤 𝑥 𝑡 100×2.5×0.5
(h) (i) given that 𝜌 = = = 1.32𝑐𝑚3 /g
𝑚 95

1
(ii) The density of meter rule was 𝜌 = =0.76𝑔/𝑐𝑚3
1.32𝑐𝑚3 /𝑔

(i) The possible source of error in this experiment was failure to read correct values of length
using the same balancing meter rule scale.

(j) Its precaution was to be careful during taking a measurement especially length, and to be
careful when making calculation.

(k) The aim of this experiment was to determine the mass of metre rule and its density.

2. You are provided with a plane mirror, a Ruler, protract, Drawing, board, Optica pins,
Office pins and plain paper, proceed as follows:

a) On the plain paper provided, draw a line 13cm from the top of the paper and call it
M1M2 Pin your paper on the board provided and place the reflecting surface of the
mirror along the M1M2 as seen in figure 2.

A plane mirror

N
M1 M2
P1 P3
P2
P4

Figure 2 72
b) Insert pin O as an object at 40cm in front of the mirror place pins P1 and P2 so as to
appear in one straight line with the image of object O seen in the plane mirror.
c) Remove pins P1and P2 using other pins, place pins P3 and P4 so as to appear in a
straight line with the image of object O in the other side ( see Figure 2)
d) Remove the mirror and pins. Draw lines joining P1 and P2 on one side and the other
joining P3 and P4 on the other side of object O1 extend both lines to meet at 1 on the
other side of the M1M2
e) Join O1, a line catting the reflecting surface at N.
f) Repeat this procedure for the distance of an object being 6,8,10 and 12cm
g) On all the diagrams drawn:
i. Measure the distance ON and NL.
ii. Comment on the distance obtained in 2 (g) (i)
iii. What is the nature of image? Give reasons for your answer.
iv. State four characteristics of the image you obtained.
v. What is the aim of this experiment?
vi. Mention and state the law governing the experiment
vii. Explain a source of error in this experiment
viii. How can you minimize the error in (vii) above?
Answer question 2.
(g) (I) the table of results
ON(cm) 4 6 8 10 12
NI(cm) 4.1 6.0 8.2 10.0 12.0

(ii) The distance ON and IN obtained was equal, but small deviation was due to
parallax error on locating the correct position of the pins due to the fact that the
experiment was very sensitive.
(iii) The image was virtual, because the distance of image was almost equal to the
distance of object and the image had the same size as the object and was upright.
(iv) The image
 Was upright

73
  Has the same size as the object
 Was lateral inverted
 Was virtual

(v) The aim of this experiment was to determine the relationship between distance of
object and distance of image from the plane mirror.
(vi) the law of reflection of light, which stated that ‘the angle of reflection, incident
and line to the normal all lie in the same pane’.
Also “the angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection.
(vii)The sources of error could be inability to determine the position of pins in
relation to their images due to parallax error.
(viii) The error can be minimized by performing several experiment in the room with
enough light in order to see pin clearly.

NECTA 2013 2B
1. You are provided with a pendulum bob, stop watch clock, Thread, Tape measure, Retort
stand and clamp. Proceed as follows:
Set the apparatus as shown in figure 1.

a) Adjust the thread to length (L) of the pendulum to 140cm. set the bob into oscillations
by displacing it to a small angle and releasing it. Record the time (t) taken for the
complete oscillations.

74
 b) Repeat (a) above for the length of the pendulum L = 120cm, 80cm, 60cm and
40cm.Record your result in a suitable table including periodic time T and T2.
c) Plot a graph of T2 against L
d) Determine the slope of your graph.
e) From the graph, state the relation between T and L
f) Using graph, find the time taken by the bob to oscillate when the length of the
pendulum L = 50cm.
𝐼 2𝜋
g) Given that = 2
, calculate the acceleration due to gravity g
𝐿 𝑔½ 𝑇

h) Suggest the aim of this experiment

i) State any two (2) sources of error. (25 marks)

Answer question 1

(b) Table of results

Length, L(cm) 140 100 80 60 40

Time for 10 oscillation (s) 23.76 21.99 20.08 15.55 12.70
Period T(s) 2.376 2.199 2.008 1.555 1.270
T2 (s2) 5.64 4.03 3.22 2.42 1.61
(d) Slope from the graph

∆𝑇 2 𝑠 2
Slope S=
∆𝐿 𝑐𝑚
Point to from the graph A (40, 2) and B (100, 4.4)
4.4−2 𝑠2
S=
100−40 𝑐𝑚
= 0.04𝑠2 /𝑐𝑚
Slope (S) =0.04𝑠 2 /𝑐𝑚 or 4𝑠 2 /𝑚

(c) The graph of T2 against L

75
 THE GRAPH OF T2 (s2) AGAINST ‘L (cm)

SCALE

Vertical scale: 1cm represent 0.5 s2

Horizontal scale: 1cm represent 10 cm

T2 (s2)

9.0

8.0

7.0

6.0

5.0

4.0
B (100, 4.4)

3.0
∆T2 (s2)
2.0

1.0 ∆L (cm)

Length
L (cm)
20 40 100
60 80 120 140
-1.0

(e) The nature of graph was straight line passing through the origin
(f) The time t, at the length of L=50cm was given by
T=√2=1.414
Thus t=T×n=1.414×10=14.14sec
The time t at 50cm was 14.14ses

76
 𝐿
g) From the given relation T=2𝜋√
𝑔
4𝜋 2
T2= 𝐿
𝑔
g
Y=m x
Thus
4𝜋 2
M= Where m is a slope
𝑔
4𝜋 2 4𝜋 2
g= 𝑚
= 0.04 = 985.9𝑐𝑚/𝑠 2
g=985.9𝑐𝑚/𝑠 2 or 9.86𝑚/𝑠 2
The value of g is 9.86𝑚/𝑠 2
(h) The aim of experiment was to determine the acceleration due to gravity.

(i) The two sources of error in this experiment where.

 Poor timing when starting and stopping the stop watch to count the number of
oscillations. This was prevented by being more careful and active.
 Mistake in reading the stop watch. This was prevented by doing enough
practices so as to be familiar with reading stop watch.

2. You are provided with a source of power 3V, Rheostat, Ammeter, Resistor, Voltmeter,
Key and connecting wires. Proceed as follows:

a) Name the special symbols used in the circuit in figure 2.

b) (i) Close the switch and adjust the Rh by sliding slowly from one end.
(ii) Read and record the values of V and I.

77
 (iii) Repeat the experiment by changing the position of slider on Rh for four (4)
different positions and tabulate your results.
c) (i) Plot a graph of V against I.
(ii) What is the shape of your graph?
(iii) Determine the slope of your graph.
(iv) What is the physical meaning of the slope obtained in 2© (iii)?
(v) From the graph, determine the value of p.d, where the current is 0.25A.
(vi) What is the relationship between V and I across R?
(vii) Why is this experiment not an accurate method of calculating resistance?
(viii) State the law governing this experiment
d) What is the aim of this experiment?
e) State one source of error and how to minimize it.
(25 marks)

Answer for question 2.

(a) Name of symbols

E-Batteries, K-switch, Rh-rheostat, A-Ammeter, V-voltmeter, R-resistance

(b) (iii) The table of results

Formula to obtain accurate data was V=IR Where R=2Ω as a slope
Current I(A) 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5
Potential difference V(volts) 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1.0
(c) (i) The graph of V against I

78
 THE GRAPH OF “V” (Volts) AGAINST “I” (A)

SCALE

Vertical scale: 1cm represent 0.1V

V (Volts)
Horizontal scale: 1cm represent 0.05A

1.8

1.6

1.4

1.2

1.0

A (0.45, 0.9)
0.8

0.6 ∆V (Volts)

0.4

0.2 ∆I (A)

0.1 I (A)
0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7
-0.2

(ii) The shape of the graph was straight line pass the origin.
∆𝑉 𝑉𝑜𝑙𝑡𝑠
(iii) From the graph, the slope S=
∆𝐼 𝐴
Point to from the graph A (0.45, 0.9) and B (0.15, 0.3)
0.9−0.3 𝑉 0.6
S=
0.45−0.15 A
= 0.3 = 2Ω

79
 The Slope, S, of the graph is2Ω

(iv)The physical meaning of slope of the graph was the resistance 0f a conductor.
(v) For value of potential difference was 0.5V when current was 0.25A
(vi) The relationship between I and V directly proportional
(vii) ohm’s law is not an accurate method of calculating resistance because it is an
approximately due to the fact that, voltmeter offer additional parallel resistance and
ammeter additional series resistance in a circuit, also the circuit is vulnerable to
temperature change.
(i) The law that governed in this experiment was ohm’s law, which states that ‘at
constant temperature and other physical factor the current pass through a
conductor is directly proportional to the potential difference across its end’
(d) The aim of experiment was to verify ohm’s law

(e) Sources of error and its precaution

 Loosing connection which could affect the value of current, this can be reduced by
ensuring all connection were well secured
 Parallax error due to reading scale of voltmeter and ammeter and this can be reduced
by being familiar with the scale of ammeter and voltmeter before recording data,

NECTA 2012 2A
1. You are provided with a measuring cylinder, eureka can, nylon thread, standard masses
and water. Proceed as follows;

a) Pour water into eureka can until it just beginning to overflow

Nylon thread Spout

Eureka can
Measuring cylinder
Standard mass
Displaced water
Bench
Figure 1
b) Hold a suitable measuring cylinder under the spout and immerse standard mass of 50g into
eureka can as shown in figure 1. Water will pass through the spout and will be collected by a
measuring cylinder. Wait for it to drop until it starts to cease and take long interval to drop.
Record the reading of the water collected.

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c) Repeat the procedure 1(b) for standard masses of 100g.150g, 200g and 250g.

d) Tabulate your results showing the quantities as follows:

Mass(g) Volume (cm3) Density (g/cm3)

50
100
150
200
250
e) Plot a graph of mass against volume

f) State the nature of the graph

g) From your graph

(i). Calculate the slope

(ii).What does a slope of your graph show
(iii). What is relationship between mass and volume?
(iv). Establish the formula governing the experiment

h) Identify with reasons the best least satisfactory method of finding the constant value of
mass divided by volume.

i) State two possible errors in this experiment

j) How can you minimize error in 1(i)?

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NECTA 2011-2A
1. The aim of this experiment is to determine the mass of a given dry cell size “AA”.
proceed as follows:
a) Locate and note the center of gravity C of the rule by balancing it on a knife
edge.
b) Suspend the 50g mass at length ‘a’ cm on one side of meter rule and the 20g
mass together with the dry cell at length ‘b’ cm on the other side of the meter
rule. Fix the 50g mass at length 30cm from the fulcrum and adjust the position
of 20g mass together with the dry cell until the meter rule balances horizontally.
Read and record the values of “a” and “b” as 𝑎𝑜 and 𝑏𝑜 respectively.
c) Draw the diagram of this experiment.
d) By fixing a=5cm from fulcrum C, find its corresponding length b.
e) Repeat the procedures in (d) above for a=10cm, 15cm, 20cm and 25cm. Tabulate
your results.
f) Draw a graph of ‘a’ against ‘b’ and calculate its slope G.
𝑏
g) Calculate X from the equation50 = 𝑎𝑜 20 + 𝑥 .
𝑜
𝑏𝑜
h) Comment on the value of 𝑎 .
𝑜
i) State the principle governing this experiment.

Answer for question 1.

(c) C
a b

Xg

50g 20g

The diagram of experiment

(e) The table of the results of ‘a’ and ‘b’.

a(cm) 5 10 15 20 25
a(cm) 7 14 21 28 35
(f) From the graph the slope, G, is given by:

The slope, G, from the graph

∆𝑎 𝐶𝑚
Slope, S=
∆𝑏 𝑐𝑚

Point to from the graph A (25, 19) and B (14.5, 11)

19−11 8
S=
25−14.5
= = 0.76
10.5

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 The Slope, G, of the graph is 0.76
(f) The graph of ‘a’ against ‘b’

THE GRAPH OF “a” (cm) AGAINST “b” (cm)

SCALE

Vertical scale: 1cm represent 5cm

a (cm)
Horizontal scale: 1cm represent 2.5cm

45

40

35 A (25, 35)

30

∆a (cm)
25

20
∆b (cm)
15

10

5 b (cm)
10 15 20 25 30 35
-5

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 𝑏
(g) Given; 50=𝑎0 20 + 𝑋 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒 𝑎0 = 𝑎, 𝑏0 = 𝑏
0
20+𝑋
Then a=
50
𝑏
𝑎 20+𝑋
=( )
𝑏 50
𝑎
𝐹𝑟𝑜𝑚 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑝ℎ = 𝑠𝑙𝑜𝑝𝑒 𝐺
𝑏
20+𝑋
Therefore G= (
50
Then X=50G-20=50×0.76=18g
The unknown mass of the dry cell size “AA” was 18g.
(h) From the diagram of experiment and the principle of moments;
Sum of clockwise moment=sum of anticlockwise moment.
(20+X)b=50a

𝑎 20+𝑋 50
𝑏
=( )= = 1.3
50 20+18

𝑎
𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑣𝑎𝑙𝑢𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝑔𝑖𝑣𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 50𝑔 𝑚𝑎𝑠𝑠 𝑜𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡 𝑖𝑠 ℎ𝑒𝑎𝑣𝑖𝑒𝑟 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑛 20𝑔 𝑎𝑛𝑑
𝑏

𝑚𝑎𝑠𝑠 𝑋 𝑜𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡

(i) the principle of moments which states that; when the body is in equilibrium under
parallel forces, the sum of clockwise moment is equal to the sum of anticlockwise moment.

2. You are provided with an ammeter, A, resistance box, R, dry cell, D, a key, K and
connecting wires. proceed as follows;
a) Connect the circuit in series.
b) Put R =1Ω and quickly read the value of current I on the ammeter.
c) Repeat procedure (b) above for R=2Ω, 3Ω, 4Ω and 5Ω. Record your results
in a tabular form.
d) Draw the circuit diagram for this experiment.
1
e) Plot the graph of R against .
𝐼
f) Determine the slope of the graph.
𝐸
g) If the graph obeys the equation, 𝑅 = − 𝑟 then
𝐼
i) Suggest how E and r may be evaluated from your graph.
ii) Compute E.
iii) Compute r.
h) State one source of error and suggest one way of minimizing it.
i) Suggest the aim of this experiment.

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 Answer for question 2.
(c) The table of results of R, I and i -1

Resistance Current I (A) 1/I (A-1)

R(Ω)
1 0.9 1.1
2 0.4 2.5
3 0.4 2.5
4 0.3 3.3
5 0.3 3.3

(d) The circuit diagram of the experiment.

R

I
A

r
K
E

From the graph the gradient, is given by:

The gradient from the graph

∆𝑅 Ω
Gradient =
∆1/𝐼 𝐴−1

Point to from the graph A (2.9, 3.5) and B (1.5, 2.0)

3,5−2.0 1.5
E=
2.9−1.8
= = 1.4𝑉
1.1
Gradient, of the graph is 1.4v
(f) The graph of ‘a’ against ‘b’

85
 THE GRAPH OF R (Ω) AGAINST 1/I(𝐴−1)

SCALE

Vertical scale: 1cm represent 0.5Ω

R (Ω) Horizontal scale: 1cm represent 0.25(𝐴−1 )

4.5

4.0

3.5 A (2.9, 3.5)

3.0

2.5 ∆ R (Ω)

2.0
∆1/I ( 𝐴−1))
1.5

1.0

0.5

0.5 1/I (𝐴−1 ))

1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5
-0.5

𝐸
(g) (i) From the given equations 𝑅 = − 𝑟 and y=mx+c
𝐼
1
By comparing these two equations thus 𝑅 = 𝐸 −𝑟
𝐼
Y=M X + C

86
 (ii)Then the value of E=slope (m) =1.4V
(iii) The value of r was equal to the value of y=intercept in the graph which
are equal to -0.5
(h) The sources of error in this experiment was losing connection in a circuit
especially in resistance box which cause the fault reading of current. The best
way of reducing this error was secure properly all plugs on the resistance box
before reading ammeter.

(i) The aim of this experiment was to determine the electromotive force (Emf)

And the Internal resistance, r

NECTA 2011 -2C

2. You are provided with battery, E, rheostat, Rh, switch, S, ammeter, A, voltmeter,
V and resistor, R. proceed as follows:
a) Connect the battery, rheostat, switch, ammeter and resistor in series as
shown in Figure 2. The voltmeter must be connected across R.

S Rh

Figure 2
b) Switch on the current and adjust the rheostat to obtain six (6) different
values of voltmeter readings (V) and corresponding values of ammeter
reading (A).
Note: To improve the accuracy, adjust the rheostat each time so that the
voltmeter pointer (or ammeter pointer) is exactly on a division of the meter
scale before taking your readings.
c) Tabulate your results including the value of V/ I.
d) Deduce the aim of this experiment.
e) Draw a graph of voltage (V) against current (I).
f) Determine the slope of your graph.
g) Calculate the average value of R.
h) Comment on the values obtained in (f) and (g).
i) State the law governing this experiment.
j) Give a limitation of the law stated in (i).

87
3. You are provided with two plane mirrors, an optical pin, a sheet of plane drawing
paper, mirror holder or office pins, a protractor, a ruler and a drawing table.
Proceed as follows;
a) Draw two lines at right angles
b) Place the two plane mirrors along the top two lines using the mirror holders
or office pins as shown in Figure 2.
c) Put an optical pin at O when. Look onto one of the mirrors and count the
number of images, n, you see.
d) Repeat the procedures in 2(c) for _______
e) Tabulate your results for the values of ____
f) Plot a graph of number of images, n, against
g) From the graph;
i) Determine the slope
ii) Find the number of images when
iii) Find the value of y-intercept
iv) Derive the equation relating the number of images and from your
experiment
v) What happens to the number of images as the value angle is reduced.
h) What happens to the number of images when
i) State a possible source of error and how you can minimize it.
j) What is the aim of this experiment

4. You are provided with a meter rule with a hole drilled at 50cm mark, steel knitting
needle, unknown mass M of a dry cell size D, known mass W (100g) two weighing
pans or two pieces of threads, retort stand and clamp. Proceed as follows;
a) Locate and record the center of gravity, C of the meter rule by balancing the
ruler on the clamped knitting needle and ensure that the ruler balances in a
horizontal position.

b) Suspend unknown weight M and W at 10cm mark and adjust the position of
W on the other side of O so that the ruler balances in a horizontal position.
c) Measure the distance of M and W from O as x and y respectively.
d) Draw the diagram for this experiment.
e) Repeat procedures (b) and (c) above with M suspended from 15cm, 20cm,
25cm and 30cm marks.
f) Tabulate your results.
g) Plot a graph of y against x.
h) State the nature of the graph.
i) Read and record the value of y when x=17.5cm.
j) Calculate the slope G of the graph.

88
k) Find the value of M given that the equation representing the graph is
M=GW, where W is given.
l) Mention and state the principle governing this experiment.
m) State a possible source of error in this experiment.
n) What is the main of the experiment?

PHYSICS PRACTICAL REVIEW

NECTA 2011-2021

This book was written by sr. Datius R Didas .born in 1996 at

Mabira village in Kyerwa Kagera. In the year of 2003 he
started primary education at Ileega primary school, where
he succeed to join secondary education at Mabira secondary
school in the year 2009-2013. He succeeded to join advanced
education in the year 2014-2016 at Lindi secondary school
taking combination of PGM.
In 2017 he join at university of Dodoma (UDOM) pursue
bachelor of education in science specialized in mathematics
and physics.

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