Required Practicals

AQA A-Level Physics has 12 required practicals that you must have completed during the course. These practicals form the basis of questions on Paper 3 Section A, and practical techniques are also tested throughout Papers 1 and 2. You need to know the method, variables, safety precautions, expected results, data analysis, and common exam questions for each one.

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Required Practical 1: Stationary Waves on a String

Investigation into the variation of the frequency of stationary waves on a string with length, tension, and mass per unit length.

Method

1. Set up a vibration generator connected to a signal generator at one end of a string
2. Pass the string over a pulley and attach hanging masses to provide tension (T)
3. Adjust the frequency on the signal generator until a clear stationary wave pattern is observed (fundamental mode: one antinode)
4. Measure the length (L) of the vibrating string between the vibration generator and the pulley
5. Record the frequency (f) at which the fundamental mode occurs
6. Vary one variable at a time (length, tension, or mass per unit length) and repeat

Variables