Question Library
Browse, filter, and study verified past examination questions with step-by-step mathematical reasoning.
Searching 18,000+ Questions...
Sifting topics, KaTeX formulas & verified solutions
Showing 1996–2010 of 13612 verified questions
Sort by:
Physics
WAEC / WASSCE 2020
Mechanics and Properties of Matter
Solution
(a) Define isotopes.
(b) Mention two uses of radioactive tracers in each of the following areas:
(\(\alpha\)) medicine
(\(\beta\)) industry
(\(\gamma\)) agriculture.
(c) State three features of electromagnetic waves.
(d)) Mention four components of the nuclear reactor.
(i) State the functions of each of the components stated in (d)(i).
medium Difficulty
Verified Correct Answer: Option
Physical Principles & Numerical Solution
(a)i) Definition of isotopes;
Atoms of the same element that have the same number of protons but different number of neutron.
OR
Same atomic number but different mass number
(ii) (\(\alpha\)) Uses of Radioactive Tracers in Medicine;
- monitoring the function of the thyroid gland/other organs.
- detection of blood clots in the brain.
- diagnosis and treatment of disease
- sterilization of medical equipment
(\(\beta\)) Uses of tracers in industry
Detection of;
- leakages in underground pipes
- wear and tear of moving parts of machinery:
- environmental pollution
(\(\gamma\) ) Uses of tracers in agriculture
- determination of plants absorption of mineral elements;
- study of the mechanism of photosynthesis;
- seed preservation;
- sterilization of insects;
- food preservation.
(b) Calculation of the minimum frequency of radiation
OR
f\(_o\) = f - \(\frac{E}{b}\)
= 5.4 x 10\(\frac{1}{2}\) - \(\frac{1.2 \times 10^{-19}}{6.6 \times 10^{34}}\)
= 3.6 x 10\(^4\)Hz
(c) Features of electromagnetic waves
- Transverse waves,
- Travel with the speed of light in vacuum;
- Undergo refraction/reflection/diffraction/polarization/interference
- Travel through vacuum.
(d)(i) Components of the nuclear reactor;
- uranium fuel
- graphite moderator;
- (boron) control rod
- coolant;
- heat exchanger;
- shield
(ii) Functions of the component of the nuclear reactor;
- uranium rods
- serves as fuel;
- graphite moderator
- control neutron speed; (boron) control rod
- Controls neutron population; coolant
- reduces the excessive heat produced in the reaction; heat exchanger
- converts the heat energy produced to other forms; shield
- to protect operator and surroundings against extraneous radiation
Source: Myschool Past Questions Archive (Record #59554)
Physics
WAEC / WASSCE 2020
Mechanics and Properties of Matter
Solution
(a)
You are provided with a metre rule, a knife-edge, set of masses, inextensible string, retort support and other necessary apparatus.
i. Place the metre rule on the knife edge. Read and record the point G where the metre rule balances horizontally, as shown in Fig (a).
ii. Suspend the metre rule at G with the aid of the string provided and attach the string to the retort support as shown in Fig 1(b). Keep the string attached to this point throughout the experiment.
iii. Attach the mass \(M_0\) at the 80cm mark of the metre rule. Determine the distance of y from G. Keep \(M_0\) at this
position throughout the experiment.
iv. Suspend a mass M= 40g on the side AG and adjust its position until the metre rule balances horizontally.
v. Measure and record the distance of x of M from G. Evaluate x\(^{-1}\)
vi. Repeat the procedure for four other values of M= 60g, 80g, 100g and 120g. Measure and record x and evaluate x\(^{-1}\) in each case.
vii. Tabulate the readings.
viii. Plot a graph of M on the vertical axis and x on the horizontal axis, starting both axes from the origin (0,0).
ix. Determine the slope s of the graph:
x. Given that s = y\(M_0\), determine \(M_0\).
xi. State two precautions taken to obtain accurate results.
(b) i. Define the moment of a force about a point.
ii. A uniform metre rule is suspended by an inextensible string at its centre of gravity. If a mass of 60g is placed at the 25cm mark, what mass should be placed at the 80cm mark of the metre rule to balance it horizontally?
medium Difficulty
Verified Correct Answer: Option
Physical Principles & Numerical Solution
a(i) Note: G = 50.0cm, (ii) y = 30.0cm
(iii)
S/N
M(g)
x(cm)
x\(^{-1}\)(cm\(^{-1}\)0
x\(^{-1}\)(x10\(^{-3}\))
1
2
3
4
6
40.0
60.0
80.0
100.0
120.0
37.50
25.0
18.75
15.00
12.50
0.027
0.040
0.055
0.067
0.08
27.00
40.00
53.00
67.00
80.00
(iv)
(ix). Slope = \(\frac{\bigtriangleup M}{\bigtriangleup X^{-1}}\) = \(\frac{M_2}{X_2^{-1}} - \frac{M_1}{X_1^{-1}}\)
= \(\frac{120.0 - 40}{80.0 - 27}\) = \(\frac{80}{53}\)
= 1.509 x 10\({^3}\) = 1509
x. S = y\(M_0\)
1509 = 30\(M_0\)
\(M_0\) = \(\frac{1509}{30}\)
\(M_0\) = 50.3
xi. Precautions:
- Avoided parallax error in reading metre rule
- Noted/corrected/Avoided zero error on metre rule
- Avoided draught
- Ensured that support was rigid/firm
- Repeated readings shown on the table
- Ensured mass does not touch or rest on the table.
(b) i. Definition of the moment of a force about a point: It is the product of the force and the perpendicular distance between the line of action of the force and the point.
Sum of clockwise moment = sum of anticlockwise moment
M x 30 = 60 x 25
M = \(\frac{60 \times 25}{30}\) = 50
Source: Myschool Past Questions Archive (Record #59725)
Physics
WAEC / WASSCE 2020
Mechanics and Properties of Matter
Diagram
Solution
You are provided with a glass block, plane mirror, and optical pins.
(i) Place the glass block on a drawing sheet and trace its outline ABCD as shown in the diagram above.
(ii) Remove the block, measure and record the width W of the block.
(iii) Draw a normal ON to DC at a point about one-quarter the length of DC.
(iv) Draw a line making an angle i = 10^\circ with the normal.
(v) Replace the block on its outline and mount the plane mirror vertically behind the block such that it makes good contact with the face AB.
(vi) Stick two pins \(P_1\) and \(P_2\) on the line MO.
(vii) Looking through the face CD, stick two other pins \(P_3\) and \(P_4\) such that they appear to be in a straight line with the images of pins \(P_1\) and \(P_2\) seen through the block.
(viii) Join \(P_3\) and \(P_4\) with a straight line and extend it to touch the face CD at O\(^{1}\).
(ix)Draw a perpendicular line from the midpoint of OO\(^{1}\) to meet AB at Q.
(x) Draw lines OQ, O\(^{1}\)Q and normal O\(^{1}\)N\(^{1}\) produced.
(xi) Measure and record \cos\theta, e, and d.
(xii) Evaluate m = sin e, and n cos\(\frac{\theta}{2}\)
(xii)Repeat the procedure for i = 20^\circ, 30^\circ, 40^\circ and 50.
(xiv) Tabulate your readings.
(xv) Plot a graph with m on the vertical axis and n on the horizontal axis.
(xvi) Determine the slope, s, of the graph and evaluate \cos\theta = 2Ws.
(xvii) State two precautions are taken to ensure accurate results.
(xviii) Sketch a diagram to show the path of the ray through the glass block when the angle of incidence i = 90^\circ in the experiment above.
(xix) A coin lies at the bottom of a tank containing water to a depth of 130cm. If the refractive index of water is 1.3, calculate the apparent displacement of the coin when viewed vertically from above.
Attached Figure / Diagram
medium Difficulty
Verified Correct Answer: Option
Physical Principles & Numerical Solution
i/^\circ
\theta/^\circ
e/^\circ
d/cm
m = sine/^\circ
n = cos\(\frac{\theta}{2}\)/^\circ
10
20
30
40
50
10.4
19.0
20.0
30.0
30.5
10.0
20.4
30.0
40.0
50.0
3.00
3.90
6.00
7.00
7.50
0.174
0.349
0.500
0.643
0.766
0.996
0.986
0.985
0.966
0.965
Slope = \(\frac{0.766 - 0.174}{0.965 - 0.996}\)
= \(\frac{0.592}{-0.031}\)
= - 19.097^\circ
q = 2ws
q = 2 x 6.5 x -19.097
q = 1248.261
q = -248.3
SEE THE GRAPH ABOVE.
Precautions:- Neat traces, Pins located vertically, Pins reasonably spaced, Avoided parallax error while reading the protractor/ ruler, zero error avoided on the metre rule.
(b) Refractive index is the ratio of the velocity of light in air to the velocity of light in a medium when light waves pass from air to a material medium. Mathematically,
n = \(\lambda_{1}\)
\(\lambda_{2}\). Where;
\(\lambda_{1}\) = wavelength in air
\(\lambda_{2}\) = wavelength in material
n = refractive index of the material
(ii) The light must be traveling from a denser medium to a less dense medium. The angle of incidence in the denser medium must be greater than the critical angle.
Source: Myschool Past Questions Archive (Record #59735)
Physics
WAEC / WASSCE 2020
Mechanics and Properties of Matter
Solution
You are provided with a resistance box R, voltmeter, key, cell of e.m.f. E, constantan wire, standard resistor, RX, an ammeter, and other necessary apparatus.
(i) Measure and record the e.m.f. E of the cell provided.
(ii) Set up the circuit as shown in the diagram above.
(iii) Set R to 1\(\Omega\). Close the key, read and record the current I and the corresponding voltage V.
(iv) Repeat the procedure for four other values of R= 2\(\Omega\), 4\(\Omega, 6\(\Omega\), and 8\(\Omega\).
(v) In each case, read and record I and V.
(vi) Tabulate the reading.
(vii) Plot a graph of V on the vertical axis and I on the horizontal axis.
(viii) Determine the slope s, of the graph.
(ix) State two precautions are taken to ensure accurate results
(b) )State two advantages of connecting identical cells in parallel.
(ii) State two factors to consider in choosing the material for the design of a resistor
medium Difficulty
Verified Correct Answer: Option
Physical Principles & Numerical Solution
R(n)
I(A)
V(v)
1.0
2.0
4.0
6.0
8.0
0.40
0.35
0.28
0.22
0.18
0.65
0.58
0.22
0.45
0.40
E = 3.00v
(x) Precautions:
- Key opened in between readings/key opened when readings were not taken
- Ensuring tight connections Avoid parallax error when taking a reading on voltmeter/ammeter Repeated readings (shown on the table)
- Noted/corrected zero error on voltmetre/ammeter
- Clean terminals ensured
(b)Advantages of connecting identical cells in parallel produce a larger amount of current. supply steady current for a long period - efficiency is high
(ii) Factors to consider in choosing a material for the design of a resistor
- Power rating-Tolerance
- Voltage rating
-Temperature coefficient
- Noise
- Frequency response
- Stability
- Resistivity
Source: Myschool Past Questions Archive (Record #59755)
Physics
WAEC / WASSCE 2020
Heat Energy & Temperature
Solution
You are provided with a resistance box R, voltmeter, key, cell of e.m.f. E, constantan wire, standard resistor, RX, an ammeter, and other necessary apparatus.
(i) Measure and record the e.m.f. E of the cell provided.
(ii) Set up the circuit as shown in the diagram above.
(iii) Set R to 1\(\Omega\). Close the key, read and record the current I and the corresponding voltage V.
(iv) Repeat the procedure for four other values of R= 2\(\Omega\), 4\(\Omega, 6\(\Omega\), and 8\(\Omega\).
(v) In each case, read and record I and V.
(vi) Tabulate the reading.
(vii) Plot a graph of V on the vertical axis and I on the horizontal axis.
(viii) Determine the slope s, of the graph.
(ix) State two precautions are taken to ensure accurate results
(b) )State two advantages of connecting identical cells in parallel.
(ii) State two factors to consider in choosing the material for the design of a resistor
A
depends on areas of the surfaces in contact
B
occurs in fluids
C
is independent of the relative velocity of the layers
D
depends on the tangential force between the layers
medium Difficulty
Verified Correct Answer: Option C
Physical Principles & Numerical Solution
R(n)
I(A)
V(v)
1.0
2.0
4.0
6.0
8.0
0.40
0.35
0.28
0.22
0.18
0.65
0.58
0.22
0.45
0.40
E = 3.00v
(x) Precautions:
- Key opened in between readings/key opened when readings were not taken
- Ensuring tight connections Avoid parallax error when taking a reading on voltmeter/ammeter Repeated readings (shown on the table)
- Noted/corrected zero error on voltmetre/ammeter
- Clean terminals ensured
(b)Advantages of connecting identical cells in parallel produce a larger amount of current. supply steady current for a long period - efficiency is high
(ii) Factors to consider in choosing a material for the design of a resistor
- Power rating-Tolerance
- Voltage rating
-Temperature coefficient
- Noise
- Frequency response
- Stability
- Resistivity
Source: Official Exam / Past Question Archive
Chemistry
WAEC / WASSCE 2020
Atomic Structure and Periodic Table
Solution
Which or the following substances is a polypeptide?
A
Starch
B
Glycogen
C
Protein
D
Fats
medium Difficulty
Verified Correct Answer: Option C
Chemical Principles & Mechanism
- A polypeptide is defined as a polymer of amino acids joined together by peptide bonds.
- Proteins are polymers of amino acids.
Source: Myschool Past Questions Archive (Record #58788)
Chemistry
WAEC / WASSCE 2020
Organic Chemistry
Solution
Which or the following products could be formed during incomplete combustion of a hydrocarbon.
i.Carbon ii. Hydrogen III. Carbon (Il) oxide
A
I only
B
I and II only
C
I and III only
D
II and III only
medium Difficulty
Verified Correct Answer: Option C
Chemical Principles & Mechanism
Incomplete combustion occurs when the supply of air or oxygen is poor. Water is still produced, but carbon monoxide and carbon are produced instead of carbon dioxide. The carbon is released as soot.
Source: Myschool Past Questions Archive (Record #58794)
Chemistry
WAEC / WASSCE 2020
Atomic Structure and Periodic Table
Solution
What quantity of electrons is lost when one mole of iron (II) ions is oxidized to iron (III) ?
A
0 mole
B
I mole
C
2 moles
D
3 moles
medium Difficulty
Verified Correct Answer: Option B
Chemical Principles & Mechanism
Fe\(^{2+}\) → Fe\(^{3+}\)
The pale greenFe\(^{2+}\) is oxidized to orange Fe\(^{3+}\) because it loses an electron.
Source: Myschool Past Questions Archive (Record #58796)
Chemistry
WAEC / WASSCE 2020
Stoichiometry & Mole Concept
Solution
What is the mass of silver deposited when 24,125 C of electricity is passed through a solution or silver salt.
[Ag = 108, IF = 96,500 C ]
A
432g
B
108g
C
54g
D
27g
medium Difficulty
Verified Correct Answer: Option D
Chemical Principles & Mechanism
Ag + e → Ag
1 mole of Ag+ = 108
i.e 108 X 1 X 96500
But, 24,125C will produce ( 108 X 24,125 ) / ( 1 X 96500 )
Ag = 27g
Source: Myschool Past Questions Archive (Record #58797)
Chemistry
WAEC / WASSCE 2020
Stoichiometry & Mole Concept
Solution
Equal masses of calcium trioxocarbonate(iv) were added to dilute hydrochloric acid at the temperature specified. Under which of the following conditions would the reaction be slowest?
A
Calcium trioxocarbonate ( iv ) chips a 20°C
B
CalcIum trioxocarbonate (IV) chips at 40°C
C
Calcium trioxocarbonate (IV) powder at 20'C
D
Calcium trioxocarbonate (IV) powder at 40'C
medium Difficulty
Verified Correct Answer: Option A
Chemical Principles & Mechanism
- Increasing the surface area of a reactant increases the frequency of collisions and increases the reaction rate.
- Chips have a lower surface area compared to powder, so it accounts for the slowest
Source: Myschool Past Questions Archive (Record #58798)
Chemistry
WAEC / WASSCE 2020
Acids, Bases, and Salts
Solution
Which of the following substances is an example of a fine chemical?
A
Sodium hydroxide
B
Hydrochloric acid
C
Ethylene
D
Ammonia
medium Difficulty
Verified Correct Answer: Option C
Chemical Principles & Mechanism
Fine chemicals are complex, single, pure chemical substances, produced in limited quantities while Heavy chemicals are produced and handled in large lots and are often in a crude state. Some examples of heavy chemicals are ammonia, sulfuric acid, and sodium hydroxide.
Unfortunately, all the substances provided in the options are heavy chemicals.
Source: Myschool Past Questions Archive (Record #58770)
Chemistry
WAEC / WASSCE 2020
Atomic Structure and Periodic Table
Diagram
Solution
The IUPAC name of the compound represented by the structure below is ?
Attached Figure / Diagram
A
2- chloro but-I ,3-diene.
B
But-1,3-chlorodiene.
C
2-chloro but-diene.
D
3 -chloro but -1.3-diene.
medium Difficulty
Verified Correct Answer: Option A
Chemical Principles & Mechanism
Firstly, we identify the parent name. Here, how many Carbon atoms do we have? Four carbon atoms, i.e But...
However, because there are two C=C double bonds on C-1 and C-3, the parent name will be but,1,3- diene.
Secondly, we identify the substituent group present, which is Chlorine present on C-2 i.e 2- Chloro
Finally, join the two names to get the IUPAC Nomenclature of the compound. i.e 2-chloro but-1,3 diene.
Hence, the correct answer is option A.
Source: Myschool Past Questions Archive (Record #58781)
Chemistry
WAEC / WASSCE 2020
Atomic Structure and Periodic Table
Solution
The high solubility of ethanol in water is due to?
A
its low boiling point.
B
its low freezing point.
C
its covalent nature
D
hydrogen bonding
medium Difficulty
Verified Correct Answer: Option D
Chemical Principles & Mechanism
Ethanol is an alcohol that is soluble in water. This is because of the hydroxyl group (−OH) in the ethanol that is able to form hydrogen bonds with the water (H2O) molecules.
Source: Myschool Past Questions Archive (Record #58799)
Chemistry
WAEC / WASSCE 2020
Atomic Structure and Periodic Table
Solution
Which of the following pairs of properties of alkali metals decreases down the group?
A
First ionization energy and reactivity
B
melting point and atomic radius
C
Reactivity and electronegativity
D
First ionization energy and melting point
medium Difficulty
Verified Correct Answer: Option D
Chemical Principles & Mechanism
- The ionization energy of an atom is the amount of energy that is required to remove an electron from a mole of atoms in the gas phase:
- It is possible to remove more electrons from most elements, so this quantity is more precisely known as the first ionization energy, the energy to go from neutral atoms to cations with a 1+ charge.
- The ionization energy decreases from top to bottom in groups, and increases from left to right across a period.
- The boiling and melting points decrease as you move down the group.
Source: Myschool Past Questions Archive (Record #58803)
Chemistry
WAEC / WASSCE 2020
Matter & Separation Techniques
Solution
The most suitable process of obtaining water from an aqueous solution of sugar i
A
Crystallization
B
Distillation
C
Filtration
D
Decantation
medium Difficulty
Verified Correct Answer: Option B
Chemical Principles & Mechanism
- Crystallization is primarily employed as a separation technique to obtain pure crystals of a substance from an impure mixture.
- Another important application of crystallization is its use to obtain pure salt from seawater.
- Simple syrup crystallizes when enough of the sugar molecules stick to one another that they become insoluble in the water
note; distillation is used to obtain a solvent from a solution.
Source: Myschool Past Questions Archive (Record #58816)