O-Level Physics Cross-Topic Practical Challenge Sets

TL;DR
SEAB notes Paper 3 questions may integrate knowledge and understanding from different sections of the syllabus.
Use these six mash-up scenarios to practise Planning, MMO, PDO, and ACE commentary in one sitting.
Each challenge includes guiding questions and suggested evaluation angles.

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Keep Your Physics Practical Stack On Track

Use our O-Level Physics Experiments hub to find companion drills for every Paper 3 skill before you attempt these walkthroughs.

How to tackle each challenge

1. Read the scenario and produce a quick Planning outline (aim, variables, method, safety, data).\
2. Draft the data table columns you would use and sketch the graph axes.\
3. Write an ACE paragraph addressing the reflection prompts.\
4. Repeat with real apparatus or simulations if possible.

Challenge 1 - Spring-damper power draw

• Setup: A mass-spring system oscillates vertically with a small coil attached passing through a magnetic field.\
• Tasks: Measure oscillation period (mechanics) while recording induced emf peaks (electricity).\
• Guiding questions:\
  • How does changing mass affect both period and induced emf magnitude?\
  • What graph links energy loss per cycle to coil resistance?\
  • Which reading contributes the largest uncertainty?\
• ACE angle: Discuss how mechanical damping converts to electrical energy; evaluate coil alignment and magnetic field uniformity.