Band 6 – Page 5

BIOLOGY, M8 EQ-Bank 16

How effective is renal dialysis in compensating for the loss of kidney function? (7 marks)

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Normal kidney function

→ The kidneys are the main components of the mammalian urinary system. They are organs which filter blood and maintain water, pH, ion and salt concentration in the body through varying concentrations of each in excreted urine dependent on the body’s needs.

→ Each kidney contains 1 million nephrons, the main unit responsible for filtration.

→ Each one also contains a Bowman’s capsule, proximal and distal tubules as well as the Loop of Henle which acts as a site for selective re-absorption of certain components of the blood. This is controlled by both passive diffusion of unwanted substances through a concentration gradient (e.g. urea) or by hormonal control.

→ Aldosterone and ADH are hormones secreted by the hypothalamus which increase the permeability of the distal convoluted tubule to salt and water respectively.

Kidney disfunction and dialysis

→ Kidney function can however be impaired by diseases or disorders (such as polycystic kidney disease), many of which can kill affected individuals in a number of months if left untreated.

→ When kidney function drops below 80%, haemodialysis is an effective treatment to replace kidney function.

→ Haemodialysis involves the removal of blood from the body into the dialysis machine, which will clean the blood before returning it to the body. This is achieved by running a fluid known as dialysate, countercurrent to the blood.

→ The dialysate contains a similar composition to the blood with low urea and toxins to allow the passive diffusion of the substances via the concentration gradient into the dialysate. This is then removed and constantly replenished during a session. The countercurrent direction also improves effectiveness of this process. The dialysate can also be altered to have varying amounts of salt and ions depending on the concentration in the patients body.

→ Haemodialysis can provide an effective treatment for individuals until death or an effective transplant can be found, however the process often requires 3-4 sessions per week each of which is 4 hours long.

→ Without haemodialysis loss of kidney function is often fatal, but this life-saving technology is extremely effective in preventing many deaths despite its inconvenience.

Show Worked Solution

Normal kidney function

→ Each kidney contains 1 million nephrons, the main unit responsible for filtration.

→ Aldosterone and ADH are hormones secreted by the hypothalamus which increase the permeability of the distal convoluted tubule to salt and water respectively.

Kidney disfunction and dialysis

→ Kidney function can however be impaired by diseases or disorders (such as polycystic kidney disease), many of which can kill affected individuals in a number of months if left untreated.

→ When kidney function drops below 80%, haemodialysis is an effective treatment to replace kidney function.

→ Without haemodialysis loss of kidney function is often fatal, but this life-saving technology is extremely effective in preventing many deaths despite its inconvenience.

BIOLOGY, M5 EQ-Bank 28

Complete the following diagram to show the process by which gametes are formed. (3 marks)
How does the segregation of chromosomes during meiosis lead to a wide variety of gametes being produced? (2 marks)

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b. Process creating wide variety of gametes

→ Independent assortment is the process by which homologous pairs are separated during meiosis into daughter cells.

→ During this process, daughter cell orientation and the cell they are separated into is random and not dependent on any factors.

→ This leads to a great variety in gametes due to the numerous combinations of chromosomes.

PHYSICS, M8 EQ-Bank 27

Explain how the analysis of quantitative observations contributed to the development of the concept that certain matter and energy are quantised. (9 marks)

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Experiments such as Millikan’s oil drop experiment and others testing the photoelectric effect have demonstrated that certain quantities of matter and energy are quantised which means they are multiples of some fundamental value.

Millikan’s Oil Drop Experiment

→ Millikan’s oil drop experiment was able to show that charge is quantised.

→ Millikan levitated oil drops in an electric field by balancing the electric and gravitational forces on them. This allowed him to find the electric force acting on each oil drop, and using the mass of the oil drop he found its charge.

→ Analysing his results, he found that the charge on every oil drop was an integer multiple of . This was determined to be the fundamental charge on an electron.

→ Further, with Thompson’s later discovery of the charge to mass ratio of an electron, its mass could be determined.

Photoelectric Effect

→ Photoelectric effect experiments showed the quantum properties of light which seemingly contradicted the view of light as a wave.

→ It was found that there was a minimum frequency (energy) of light that would cause photoemission when it was incident upon a metal plate, and no photoemission occurred with light lower than this frequency, regardless of intensity.

→ As one photon would strike one electron on the metal surface, the electron would receive a discrete amount of energy from that photon determined by its frequency . If a photon didn’t have enough energy, an electron couldn’t be removed.

→ This experimental evidence changed the conceptual understanding of energy within physics and provided a basis for the quantisation of the energy of light.

Other quantitative experiments that could be explored include:

→ Bohr’s analysis of emission spectra to demonstrate the existence of quantised energy levels in atoms.

→ Cathode ray experiments showing the particle nature of electrons.

→ Blackbody radiation experiments.

Show Worked Solution

Millikan’s Oil Drop Experiment

→ Millikan’s oil drop experiment was able to show that charge is quantised.

→ Analysing his results, he found that the charge on every oil drop was an integer multiple of . This was determined to be the fundamental charge on an electron.

→ Further, with Thompson’s later discovery of the charge to mass ratio of an electron, its mass could be determined.

Photoelectric Effect

→ Photoelectric effect experiments showed the quantum properties of light which seemingly contradicted the view of light as a wave.

→ This experimental evidence changed the conceptual understanding of energy within physics and provided a basis for the quantisation of the energy of light.

Other quantitative experiments that could be explored include:

→ Bohr’s analysis of emission spectra to demonstrate the existence of quantised energy levels in atoms.

→ Cathode ray experiments showing the particle nature of electrons.

→ Blackbody radiation experiments.

Number, NAP-D4-NC05v2

Leo took $72 to the 2nd hand book shop and bought a number of books.

All the books cost the same amount.

Leo paid for all the books and had no money left.

Which of these could be the amount that one book cost?

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BIOLOGY, M6 2014 HSC 33e

The text below summarises some recent scientific experiments.

With reference to genetics and gene technologies, explain these experiments and their implications. (7 marks)

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→ The XIST gene is a gene which can ‘switch off’ whole chromosomes. This occurs naturally in females, where one X chromosome is shut off to prevent over-function.

→ With modern genetic technologies, this chromosome is able to be cut out of female embryos using restriction enzymes, then multiplied to produce adequate copies by PCR or recombinant DNA gene cloning in bacteria.

→ It is then able to silence any chromosome it is then inserted into.

→ This has potential to be a new form of gene therapy for people with conditions involving trisomy, where an individual is born with an extra chromosome.

→ This includes diseases such as Down syndrome (trisomy 21) and Klinefelter syndrome (XXY), which result in decreased quality of life, as well as shorter life span.

→ If successful, the XSIT gene will provide sufferers of these diseases with a normal phenotype by silencing one of their extra chromosomes.

→ This will facilitate a longer lifespan and a normal quality of life as if no abnormal gene was present for people with trisomy conditions, as well as being an effective gene therapy method in reducing international incidence of trisomies.

Show Worked Solution

→ The XIST gene is a gene which can ‘switch off’ whole chromosomes. This occurs naturally in females, where one X chromosome is shut off to prevent over-function.

→ It is then able to silence any chromosome it is then inserted into.

→ This has potential to be a new form of gene therapy for people with conditions involving trisomy, where an individual is born with an extra chromosome.

→ This includes diseases such as Down syndrome (trisomy 21) and Klinefelter syndrome (XXY), which result in decreased quality of life, as well as shorter life span.

→ If successful, the XSIT gene will provide sufferers of these diseases with a normal phenotype by silencing one of their extra chromosomes.

♦♦♦ Mean mark 29%.

BIOLOGY, M6 2014 HSC 32b

Construct a flow chart to summarise the process of the polymerase chain reaction to amplify DNA. (4 marks)

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♦♦ Mean mark 31%.

BIOLOGY, M5 2014 HSC 32a

Name the process for the synthesis of a polypeptide chain from a messenger-RNA base sequence. (1 mark)

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Outline the steps in the formation of a functional enzyme from polypeptide chains. (3 marks)

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i. Translation

♦ Mean mark (i) 40%.

ii. Formation of a functional enzyme from polypeptide chains

→ A polypeptide will fold in a certain three-dimensional shape dependent on the amino acids, such as a sheet or a coil.

→ Multiple polypeptide chains will then link together to form a more specific shape. This shape will then go on to do a specific task as a protein.

Note: The following point is old syllabus knowledge.

→ One type of protein is an enzyme, which acts as a biological catalyst on certain substrates, primarily in metabolic reactions. The certain shape an enzyme makes due to the polypeptide chains within it is what dictates which substrate it will act on.

♦♦ Mean mark (ii) 31%.

ENGINEERING, PPT 2017 HSC 5 MC

The image shows the microstructure of brass.

What type of grain structure does this image represent?

Deformed
Dendritic
Equiaxed
Stressed

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→ All grains are relatively equiaxed, without any major deformities or stresses.

♦♦♦ Mean mark 23%.

ENGINEERING, PPT 2017 HSC 20 MC

A compound lever system is shown.

What is the velocity ratio of this lever system?

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→ This question is solved by splitting the compound lever system into 2 parts, ‘cutting’ it through the vertical beam, and finding the VR of both sections.

→ VR is equal to the distance of the effort over the distance of the load.

→ For the right hand side, VR=200/100=2, and for the left hand side, VR=300/100=3.

→ The total VR is equal to these multiplied together, therefore the VR is 6:1.

♦♦♦ Mean mark 25%.

ENGINEERING, CS 2017 HSC 18 MC

The following graph shows the results of a tensile test on a metal sample.

What is the approximate 0.2% proof stress for this metal sample?

70 MPa
80 MPa
140 MPa
260 MPa

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→ To determine proof stress, draw a line parallel to the straight section of the curve, starting at 0.2% strain (on the x-axis).

→ The point where this line intersects the graph is the value for 0.2% proof stress and in this case is approximately 140 MPa.

♦♦♦ Mean mark 17%.

ENGINEERING, AE 2017 HSC 17 MC

In which of the following does an impervious oxide surface layer provide corrosion resistance for the base metal?

Zinc coating of steel in underground applications
Carbon fibre panels in automotive body applications
Powder coating of steel structures in marine applications
Nickel-based alloys in high temperature aeronautical applications

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→ B is incorrect as carbon fibre is not a base metal.

→ A and C may form protective layers, however they are the result of a base metal being coated with a different anodic metal.

→ D is the correct answer as Nickel-based alloys form an impervious oxide layer to prevent corrosion without the need to coat them with a different metal.

♦♦♦ Mean mark 14%.

ENGINEERING, CS 2017 HSC 12 MC

Which drawing shows the correct AS 1100 standard representation of a Ø10 non-structural bolt head?

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The thickness of a bolt head is equal to 0.7 times the diameter, and the width of a bolt head (across peaks) is equal to 1.8 times the diameter.

♦♦♦ Mean mark 26%.

ENGINEERING, PPT 2016 HSC 27b

The table compares the emissions of three transport systems - car, train and aircraft.

For each transport system shown in the emissions table, explain how an engineering innovation in that transport system has affected the environment. (7 marks)

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Innovations in car transport include:

→ Fuel injection, turbo engines, power to weight ratio, tyre variants, engine management systems, ABS breaks, regenerative braking and reduction in drive train losses.

Environmental Impacts

→ Improved power to weight ratios have led to greater fuel efficiency (less consumption).

→ This has resulted from innovations in the strength of aluminium alloys and the use of carbon fibre composite components both of which make the car lighter.

→ Cars with more aerodynamic shapes are also being routinely produced, which reduces drag.

→ Therefore, modern cars that are more aerodynamically designed and built with lighter materials, have considerably less drag, and thus emissions are reduced.

Innovations in rail transport include:

→ Turbo driven diesel engines, magnetic levitation braking, disc brakes, electric trains with AC versus DC motors and efficient track alignment.

Environmental Impacts

→ The use of AC motors in the drive train, rather than DC, has been the most positive modern innovation in rail transport.

→ VVVF (variable voltage variable frequency) drives, control the voltage and torque on modern AC machines, creating greater efficiencies, as DC machines lose electricity as heat.

→ Regenerative braking can be employed by AC machines as a train descends or slows down.

→ These improved efficiencies result in less diesel fuel on country trains and less electricity on city trains, leading to a reduction in emissions.

Innovations in air transport include:

→ The use of composites to create more aerodynamic shapes and reduced weight, improved efficiency in turbofans, reduced drag and the removal of rivet-induced turbulence through the use of adhesives.

Environmental Impacts

→ Fuel efficiency is greatly improved through the use of modern turbofan engines that optimise the entrainment of by bypass air, which produces 90% of the total thrust of the engine.

→ The use of flow control devices and winglets on wings, minimise wing tip vortices, improving lift and reducing drag.

→ Efficiency is therefore improved leading to reduced fuel consumption and a consequent reductions in emissions.

Show Worked Solution

Innovations in car transport could include:

→ Fuel injection, turbo engines, power to weight ratio, tyre variants, engine management systems, ABS breaks, regenerative braking and reduction in drive train losses.

Environmental Impacts

→ Improved power to weight ratios have led to greater fuel efficiency (less consumption).

→ This has resulted from innovations in the strength of aluminium alloys and the use of carbon fibre composite components both of which make the car lighter.

→ Cars with more aerodynamic shapes are also being routinely produced, which reduces drag.

→ Therefore, modern cars that are more aerodynamically designed and built with lighter materials, have considerably less drag, and thus emissions are reduced.

Innovations in rail transport could include:

→ Turbo driven diesel engines, magnetic levitation braking, disc brakes, electric trains with AC versus DC motors and efficient track alignment.

Environmental Impacts

→ The use of AC motors in the drive train, rather than DC, has been the most positive modern innovation in rail transport.

→ VVVF (variable voltage variable frequency) drives, control the voltage and torque on modern AC machines, creating greater efficiencies, as DC machines lose electricity as heat.

→ Regenerative braking can be employed by AC machines as a train descends or slows down.

→ These improved efficiencies result in less diesel fuel on country trains and less electricity on city trains, leading to a reduction in emissions.

Innovations in air transport could include:

Environmental Impacts

→ Fuel efficiency is greatly improved through the use of modern turbofan engines that optimise the entrainment of by bypass air, which produces 90% of the total thrust of the engine.

→ The use of flow control devices and winglets on wings, minimise wing tip vortices, improving lift and reducing drag.

→ Efficiency is therefore improved leading to reduced fuel consumption and a consequent reductions in emissions.

♦ Mean mark 51%.

ENGINEERING, PPT 2016 HSC 22c

An electrical connector is screwed onto a threaded rod. A flat plate is then secured to the connector by a bolt screwed into a threaded hole.

Complete the scaled sectioned front view with the parts assembled. (6 marks)

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The image below should be adjusted to the appropriate scale.

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The image below should be adjusted to the appropriate scale.

Key points for this drawing:

Do not dimension unless asked
Section lines should be at 45 degrees and 3 mm apart
No not section threads/bolts
Ensure correct bolts dimensions used for the bolt
The gap in the middle shows that the pieces DO NOT sit flush
Swap direction of section lines for adjoining areas

♦♦ Mean mark 43%.

ENGINEERING, TE 2018 HSC 16 MC

Four output graphs from an oscilloscope are shown.

Which graph(s) represent direct current (DC)?

Graph 4 only
Graphs 3 and 4 only
Graphs 2,3 and 4 only
Graphs 1, 2 and 3 only

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→ For the current to be DC, the output has to be only positive or only negative, not a mix of both, as this represents alternating current.

→ Hence graphs 2, 3 and 4 represent DC.

♦♦♦ Mean mark 21%.

ENGINEERING, PPT 2017 HSC 25b

A small truck chassis rail has been made from rectangular hollow section (RHS) steel. The RHS has been cold formed from an alloy steel with a yield strength of 500 MPa. A manufacturer's sign on the chassis rail is shown below.

Explain why the chassis rail should normally not be drilled or welded. (3 marks)

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A large reinforcing plate that supports a new attachment is to be welded onto the chassis rail according to the manufacturer's specifications.
Use the diagram below to draw and label the macrostructure of the weld area, including the surrounding chassis rail and reinforcing plate. (2 marks)

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i. Welding

→ The chassis rail steel becomes molten when welded at temperatures exceeding the A1 temperature.

→ Columnar grains may form on some parts of the weld upon cooling.

→ Martensite may form on cooling, creating a brittle, hard microstructure with less strength than that of the steel chassis (500 MPa).

Drilling

→ Stress raisers are produced by drilling the flanges.

→ Fatigue failure is initiated by surface roughness that can occur around the drill hole.

Show Worked Solution

i. Welding

→ The chassis rail steel becomes molten when welded at temperatures exceeding the A1 temperature.

→ Columnar grains may form on some parts of the weld upon cooling.

→ Martensite may form on cooling, creating a brittle, hard microstructure with less strength than that of the steel chassis (500 MPa).

Drilling

→ Stress raisers are produced by drilling the flanges.

→ Fatigue failure is initiated by surface roughness that can occur around the drill hole.

♦♦ Mean mark (i) 39%.

ii.

♦♦ Mean mark (ii) 27%.

ENGINEERING, PPT 2018 HSC 26c

The top view of a fidget spinner is shown.

What force Q is required to overcome the 20 N resistance force shown? (3 marks)

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Show Worked Solution

Actual diagram used to calculate the 35 mm distance below.

♦♦♦ Mean mark 27%.

ENGINEERING, PPT 2018 HSC 4 MC

A line specified in AS 1100 is shown.

Which feature is this line typically used to indicate?

Centre-line
Cutting plane
Hidden feature
Fictitious outline

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Show Worked Solution

→ Although similar to a centre line, cutting planes can be identified by the thick dark ends.

♦♦♦ Mean mark 21%.

ENGINEERING, AE 2022 HSC 27b

The top and front views of a transition piece in an aircraft air conditioning duct are shown.

Complete a half-pattern development of the transition piece, starting from the line -1 given below. (6 marks)

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Notes on this drawing:

→ Ensure you find the true length of lines

→ Ensure fold lines are lighter than the outline

→ Since the half development cuts through a side, ensure you use a break line

→ Do not dimension

→ Only complete a half development and not a full development

Show Worked Solution

Notes on this drawing:

→ Ensure you find the true length of lines

→ Ensure fold lines are lighter than the outline

→ Since the half development cuts through a side, ensure you use a break line

→ Do not dimension

→ Only complete a half development and not a full development

♦ Mean mark 40%.

ENGINEERING, CS 2017 HSC 27b

An engineering team has been contracted to design a multi-function lifting device for a coastal container wharf.

The table shows some of the engineering design elements for this lifting device.

Explain how the lifting device can be tested and evaluated to determine if the criteria for the listed engineering elements are met. (6 marks)

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♦ Mean mark 46%.

ENGINEERING, AE 2017 HSC 26c

In modern aircraft, the external skin is riveted to the frame using solution treated and quenched aluminium 4% copper alloy rivets. These rivets are used immediately to attach the external skin of the aircraft to the frame.

Describe the changes that occur to the structure and properties of these rivets after installation. (3 marks)

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Changes to structure and properties of the rivet

→ The microstructure of the rivet, after quenching, is a solid unstable solution of copper dissolved in aluminium.

→ On reaching room temperature, the heat energy created initiates the copper’s precipitation out of solid solution as finely distributed precipitates , which strengthens the alloy considerably.

→ Work hardening is produced by cold working the metal when the rivet head is formed.

→ The rivet is significantly strengthened due to the installation, and its hardness will increase until precipitation hardening is finalised.

→ Corresponding decreases in the ductility of the metal will also be evident.

Show Worked Solution

Changes to structure and properties of the rivet

→ The microstructure of the rivet, after quenching, is a solid unstable solution of copper dissolved in aluminium.

→ On reaching room temperature, the heat energy created initiates the copper’s precipitation out of solid solution as finely distributed precipitates , which strengthens the alloy considerably.

→ Work hardening is produced by cold working the metal when the rivet head is formed.

→ The rivet is significantly strengthened due to the installation, and its hardness will increase until precipitation hardening is finalised.

→ Corresponding decreases in the ductility of the metal will also be evident.

♦♦ Mean mark 27%.

ENGINEERING, TE 2017 HSC 23b

The digital TV receiver uses zener diodes.

Compare the operation of zener diodes with common diodes used in electrical circuits. (3 marks)

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Common diodes

→ Allows current to flow in a forward direction.

→ If exposed to a sufficiently large voltage, common diodes break down.

→ Produced by doping silicon.

→ When subjected to a reverse voltage, common diodes can leak current.

→ Used for rectification.

Zener diodes

→ Semiconductor device that allows current to flow in either a forward or reverse direction.

→ Produced by doping silicon using a different method to that of common diodes.

→ Used for voltage regulation.

→ When breakdown voltage is exceeded they provide a stable reference voltage over a large range of currents when connected in reverse in a circuit.

→ Reverse currents don’t damage zener diodes.

Show Worked Solution

Common diodes

→ Allows current to flow in a forward direction.

→ If exposed to a sufficiently large voltage, common diodes break down.

→ Produced by doping silicon.

→ When subjected to a reverse voltage, common diodes can leak current.

→ Used for rectification.

Zener diodes

→ Semiconductor device that allows current to flow in either a forward or reverse direction.

→ Produced by doping silicon using a different method to that of common diodes.

→ Used for voltage regulation.

→ When breakdown voltage is exceeded they provide a stable reference voltage over a large range of currents when connected in reverse in a circuit.

→ Reverse currents don’t damage zener diodes.

♦♦♦ Mean mark 29%.

ENGINEERING, AE 2017 HSC 22b

Explain how a carbon fibre bicycle frame is manufactured. (3 marks)

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→ A mould that is either a ‘bladder’ (deflated when frame cured) or a smooth steel mould is used.

→ Pre-impregnated carbon fibres are wrapped around the mould.

→ Fibre wrapping can utilise pre-manufactured sheets, hand laid over the mould or via roll-wrapping.

→ Alternatively, carbon fibre can be applied directly to the mould using filament-winding.

→ The frame is then put inside a pressure chamber (may be a heated autoclave) in a vacuum-proof bag.

→ A catalyst that may be UV light or heat sensitive, is then used to activate the resin.

Show Worked Solution

→ A mould that is either a ‘bladder’ (deflated when frame cured) or a smooth steel mould is used.

→ Pre-impregnated carbon fibres are wrapped around the mould.

→ Fibre wrapping can utilise pre-manufactured sheets, hand laid over the mould or via roll-wrapping.

→ Alternatively, carbon fibre can be applied directly to the mould using filament-winding.

→ The frame is then put inside a pressure chamber (may be a heated autoclave) in a vacuum-proof bag.

→ A catalyst that may be UV light or heat sensitive, is then used to activate the resin.

♦♦♦ Mean mark 23%.

ENGINEERING, PPT 2017 HSC 21b

Gears used in automotive engines can be manufactured using ferrous alloys.

Sand casting and powder metallurgy are methods that can be used.
Compare the properties of the gears manufactured by each method. (4 marks)

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After manufacture the gears are case hardened.
Describe how case hardening produces the required structure-property relationships for this application. (3 marks)

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i. Sandcasting

→ Weaker dimensional stability than powder metallurgy.

→ If not poured correctly, grains can be columnar.

→ Fatigue can be initiated through poor surface finish.

Powder metallurgy

→ Greater dimensional stability.

→ A variety of gears that cannot be made using conventional methods can be produced using powder metallurgy.

→ A custom component can be initially produced as close as possible to the final shape of the product (near net shape forming).

→ Alloys can be produced with pores (self-lubricating).

ii. Case hardening

→ Gears are heated to red heat in a nitrogen and/or carbon environment.

→ Nitrogen and carbon disperse into the steel’s surface at these high temperatures, increasing the carbon content to a level where it is hardened by quenching.

→ Martensite is formed when the steel is quenched.

→ Hence, the inside remains soft and tough whilst the outer case becomes wear resistant and hard.

→ The outer casing may be tempered back for improved surface toughness or the gear can be used with the martensite casing.

Show Worked Solution

i. Sandcasting

→ Weaker dimensional stability than powder metallurgy

→ If not poured correctly, grains can be columnar

→ Fatigue can be initiated through poor surface finish.

Powder metallurgy

→ Greater dimensional stability

→ A variety of gears that cannot be made using conventional methods can be produced using powder metallurgy

→ A custom component can be initially produced as close as possible to the final shape of the product (near net shape forming)

→ Alloys can be produced with pores (self-lubricating).

♦♦♦ Mean mark (i) 26%.

ii. Case hardening

→ Gears are heated to red heat in a nitrogen and/or carbon environment.

→ Nitrogen and carbon disperse into the steel’s surface at these high temperatures, increasing the carbon content to a level where it is hardened by quenching.

→ Martensite is formed when the steel is quenched.

→ Hence, the inside remains soft and tough whilst the outer case becomes wear resistant and hard.

→ The outer casing may be tempered back for improved surface toughness or the gear can be used with the martensite casing.

♦♦♦ Mean mark (ii) 23%.

ENGINEERING, PPT 2019 HSC 24b

Normalised high-tensile steel has been chosen for the manufacture of a wing support beam.

Draw and label the microstructures of a normalised high-tensile steel and an annealed high-tensile steel. (2 marks)

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Explain how the microstructure produced by normalising high-tensile steel improves the steel's suitability for this application. (2 marks)

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i. Microstructures

ii. → The strength of the steel is markedly increased.

→ Normalising produces finer and more uniform grains.

Show Worked Solution

i. Microstructures

♦♦♦ Mean mark (i) 26%.

ii. → The strength of the steel is markedly increased.

→ Normalising produces finer and more uniform grains.

♦ Mean mark (ii) 41%.

BIOLOGY, M8 2019 HSC 33b

Alzheimer's disease causes destruction of brain tissue, dementia and eventually death.

The gene with the greatest known effect on the risk of developing late-onset Alzheimer's disease is called APOE. It is found on chromosome 19.

The APOE gene has multiple alleles, including e2, e3 and e4 .

What are multiple alleles? (2 marks)

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The table shows the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease for various APOE genotypes compared to average risk in the population.

Analyse the data to assess the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease associated with the e2, e3 and e4 alleles. (4 marks)

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i. → Alleles are the different variations of the same gene.

→ While most genes only have two alleles, dominant and recessive, some genes have 3 or more versions of itself. This phenomena is referred to as the gene having “multiple alleles”.

ii. Analysis of data

→ The table indicates that the alleles follow a hierarchy and have influence over the risk of Alzheimer’s, with certain combinations masking effects of others or amplifying them.

→ The e2 allele in both a homozygous genotype and coupled with e3 reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s by 40%. This suggests that the e2 allele is the one which reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s and can mask the effect of e3.

→ However, when coupled with e4, the risk of developing Alzheimer’s is 2.6 times more likely. This suggests that e4 is the more dominant allele.

→ The e4/e3 genotype also makes Alzheimer’s 3.2 times more likely in those individuals, and the e4/e4 genotypes makes it 14.9 times more likely. We can then make the conclusion that the e4 allele makes Alzheimer’s much more common in any genotype where it is present.

→ The e3 allele seems to be completely neutral and almost completely masked by both e2 and e4. In its homozygous genotype, it has no effect on the risk of developing Alzheimer’s, and when heterozygous with either e2 or e4, has little to no effect on the risk in comparison the e2 and e4’s homozygous genotypes.

→ It would then be accurate to conclude that the allele hierarchy is e3<e2<e4, with e3 being neutral and having no known effect, e2 reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s and e4 greatly increasing the risk of developing Alzheimer’s.

Show Worked Solution

i. → Alleles are the different variations of the same gene.

→ While most genes only have two alleles, dominant and recessive, some genes have 3 or more versions of itself. This phenomena is referred to as the gene having “multiple alleles”.

♦♦♦ Mean mark (i) 24%.

ii. Analysis of data

→ The table indicates that the alleles follow a hierarchy and have influence over the risk of Alzheimer’s, with certain combinations masking effects of others or amplifying them.

→ However, when coupled with e4, the risk of developing Alzheimer’s is 2.6 times more likely. This suggests that e4 is the more dominant allele.

♦♦ Mean mark (ii) 40%.

ENGINEERING, CS 2019 HSC 27bi

The bracket and lock pin assembly shown is used to attach the repeater transmitters to the tower.

Using the data given, determine the minimum lock pin diameter to use. (3 marks)

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♦♦♦ Mean mark 30%.

ENGINEERING, TE 2019 HSC 26b

A simple circuit diagram of the AM radio receiver is shown.

Complete the table giving the function of each of the circuit components listed. (5 marks)

Complete the table by drawing the waveform at positions B and C. (2 marks)

This AM radio receiver produced a demodulated electrical signal with a small current. The speakers in the earphones converted this signal into sound.
Explain why the speakers in the earphones required a high impedance (resistance) in order to produce sound of sufficient volume to be heard. (2 marks)

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♦ Mean mark (i) 47%.

ii.

♦♦♦ Mean mark (ii) 22%.

iii. → An external power source is not used to power this radio.

→ The signal picked up by the aerial powers the speakers.

→ If the impedance (resistance) is high an audible signal can be generated by the speaker at a low current.

→ Because the earphone impedance is high, the sensitivity of the coil improves, resulting in a more accurately tuned signal.

→ The sound would be inaudible if the impedance is low, as the power to the earpiece would also be low.

♦♦♦ Mean mark (iii) 15%.

BIOLOGY, M5 2020 HSC 32b

The rabies virus is a single-stranded RNA virus. It contains and codes for only five proteins. The diagrams show the structure and reproduction of the virus.

Use the information provided in Diagram 1 to explain why the rabies virus cannot be classified as a cellular pathogen. (3 marks)

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After infection the virus reproduces in muscle cells near the bite site and in the central nervous system. This requires the single-stranded rabies RNA to be transcribed, translated and replicated in the cytoplasm of host cells. These processes are shown in Diagram 2.
Use the information provided in Diagrams 1 and 2 to explain the role of viral RNA polymerase in the reproduction of the virus. (5 marks)

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i. Rabies virus cannot be a singular pathogen:

→ This pathogen contains only a single strand of RNA which only codes for five proteins.

→ Cellular pathogens such as bacteria contain a much larger genome in the form of DNA that allows the pathogen to perform complex processes without relying on a host.

ii. The Role of Viral RNA

→ The viral RNA polymerase (which is made from L and P proteins) is responsible for the production of the viral proteins and RNA, components of the rabies viruses.

→ RNA polymerase is responsible for transcription of viral RNA into mRNA, which is then used by the host’s ribosomes to produce respective viral proteins.

→ RNA polymerase is also responsible for the replication of the viral RNA. In this process, a complementary RNA strand is produced from the original RNA strand. This strand is then used as a template for RNA polymerase to rapidly produce more RNA, complementary to the template. The new RNA will therefore be identical to the original.

→ In this way, RNA polymerase is essential in producing viral proteins and new RNA strands which form new rabies virus particles.

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i. Rabies virus cannot be a singular pathogen:

→ This pathogen contains only a single strand of RNA which only codes for five proteins.

→ Cellular pathogens such as bacteria contain a much larger genome in the form of DNA that allows the pathogen to perform complex processes without relying on a host.

♦♦ Mean mark (i) 33%.

ii. The Role of Viral RNA

→ The viral RNA polymerase (which is made from L and P proteins) is responsible for the production of the viral proteins and RNA which are components of the rabies viruses.

→ RNA polymerase is responsible for transcription of viral RNA into mRNA, which is then used by the host’s ribosomes to produce viral proteins.

→ In this way, RNA polymerase is essential in producing viral proteins and new RNA strands which form new rabies virus particles.

♦♦♦ Mean mark (ii) 29%.

ENGINEERING, CS 2019 HSC 22c

The diagram shows some dimensions and forces associated with a telecommunications tower.

By considering any necessary reaction, calculate the magnitude of the forces in members and . State the nature of each force. Ignore the weight of the tower. (6 marks)

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Forces at Joint

Horizontal forces

To calculate vertical force at → use moments.

♦♦ Mean mark 36%.

Forces in Member → method of joints at

→ No horizontal forces

→ Member redundant and carrying no load

→

Member in compression (the force acting down on joint from member is 14.33 kN)

Force in N = 14.33 kN (compression)

Using Method of Sections → take moments about Joint

Find the perpendicular distance



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ENGINEERING, PPT 2019 HSC 19 MC

A webbed flange is shown.

Which image correctly represents section A–A?

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By Elimination:

→ Webs do not get sectioned (eliminate and )

→ The upright cylinder itself must be sectioned (eliminate )

♦♦♦ Mean mark 26%.

ENGINEERING, CS 2019 HSC 5 MC

Using computer-aided drawing (CAD) software a new outline was produced 18.32 mm away from the original outline of an item as shown.

Which CAD command can produce this result most efficiently?

Trim
Offset
Mirror
Expand

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→ Although there is some disparity between certain CAD programs, this is generally achieved using the offset tool.

♦♦♦ Mean mark 20%.

ENGINEERING, CS 2022 HSC 26a

The diagram shows a tower crane being used in the construction of a building.

Determine the number of 100 kg concrete blocks required to place the boom arm in equilibrium. (2 marks)

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Under a different set of conditions, a wind force is applied, as shown in the diagram.

Determine the magnitude and nature of the internal reaction in member A. (6 marks)

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ii.

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i. Let the total weight of the concrete blocks

∴ 12 × 100 kg concrete blocks are needed for the counterweight.

♦ Mean mark (i) 46%.

ii. Magnitude and nature of internal reaction

Taking the horizontal section shown:

∴

♦ Mean mark (ii) 43%.

PHYSICS, M8 2015 HSC 34e

Assess the impact of THREE advances in knowledge about particles and forces on the understanding of the atomic nucleus. (6 marks)

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Three of many possible developments are included below.

Advance One:

→ The discovery of the neutron allowed scientists to understand the masses of the nuclei.

→ This discovery enabled scientists to better identify trends in both the periodic table.

Advance Two:

→ Knowledge of the strong nuclear force helps us to explain the interaction between protons and neutrons in the nucleus, and how this force can overcome the electrostatic force of repulsion.

→ This discovery helps to explain why certain isotopes are unstable.

Advance Three:

→ Knowledge that protons and neutrons are made from different combinations of two types of quarks.

→ This helped to unify our understanding of subatomic particles, informing our base knowledge of quantum physics through the development of the Standard Model.

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Three of many possible developments are included below.

Advance One:

→ The discovery of the neutron allowed scientists to understand the masses of the nuclei.

→ This discovery enabled scientists to better identify trends in both the periodic table.

Advance Two:

→ Knowledge of the strong nuclear force helps us to explain the interaction between protons and neutrons in the nucleus, and how this force can overcome the electrostatic force of repulsion.

→ This discovery helps to explain why certain isotopes are unstable.

Advance Three:

→ Knowledge that protons and neutrons are made from different combinations of two types of quarks.

→ This helped to unify our understanding of subatomic particles, informing our base knowledge of quantum physics through the development of the Standard Model.

♦♦♦ Mean mark 32%.

PHYSICS, M8 2016 HSC 33e

Describe how the distribution of stars on a Hertzsprung-Russell diagram relates to the processes that occur during their evolution. (6 marks)

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→ An H-R diagram distributes stars into different groupings that relate to the processes that occurred during their evolution.

→ Hydrogen fusion is the primary source of energy of stars on the main sequence.

→ Hydrogen fusion is replaced by helium fusion as the main source of energy in the star’s next evolutionary phase. This grouping of stars is also known as red giants.

→ After helium fusion, the next evolutionary stage for most stars involves gravitational collapse. At this stage, the surface of the star recedes and gravitational potential energy is converted to radiant energy. This grouping is known as white dwarfs.

→ A star’s transition between evolutionary phases occurs quickly relative to time spent in each group.

→ This transition speed results in fewer stars being distributed in areas outside of these groups on the H-R diagram.

BIOLOGY, M8 2018 HSC 30

The graph shows the expected life span (the age to which people are expected to live in years) for people of different ages during the 20th century in one country.

There have been many biological developments that have contributed to our understanding of the identification, treatment and prevention of disease.

Evaluate the impact of these developments on the expected life span. In your answer, include reference to trends in the data provided. (8 marks)

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→ For all ages listed in the graph, life expectancy increased during the 20th century.

→ The lifespan from birth has increased more significantly than other ages ~ 48 to 74 years.

→ The smallest increase being for 60 year olds at ~ 5 years.

→ The ability to understand pathogens and the causes of infectious disease (Koch and Pasteur) has led to early identification and treatment of childhood illnesses such as rubella, polio and whooping cough.

→ Koch and Pasteur established germ theory, culture techniques and a set of postulates to follow in order to create the link between a particular pathogen and disease.

→ Vaccines to combat childhood illnesses were developed through a knowledge of germ theory.

→ The infant/childhood mortality rate has improved significantly, and hence life expectancy, due to the immunity provided by vaccines.

→ An understanding of inherited disorders has also improved lifespans with early diagnosis and prenatal genetic screening for genetic disorders and illnesses.

→ Antibiotic remedies were developed to combat bacterial diseases such as Staphylococcus aureus, due to an understanding of the difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.

→ With the use of antibiotics many diseases were then no longer life threatening, leading to improved mortality rates across all ages.

→ However, bacterial resistance has resulted with the overuse of antibiotics, so some diseases are now unresponsive to antibiotic treatment.

→ Epidemiology studies involving intricate planning and design, control groups and large scale analysis of data have lead to improvements in the treatment of non-infectious diseases such as cancer.

→ For example the discovery of links between smoking and lung cancer, sun exposure and melanoma, obesity and type II diabetes, has lead to widespread public health campaigns to inform people of the health risks and lowered the associated mortality rates.

→ Improved hygiene, food storage and preservation, and water filtration also occurred in the 20th century leading to fewer preventable diseases and hence increased life spans for all age groups.

→ Improved quarantine requirements have helped prevent the spread of plant, animal and human diseases via international travel.

→In conclusion, developments in biology have lead to increased life expectancy across all age groups, with the biggest improvements for babies and children.

→ These benefits are not necessarily a worldwide phenomenon as poor living conditions and access to medical treatment is not available in many poor socioeconomic communities.