AQA ยท A level Physics

Rare heatwave modelling A-level Physics challenge

Can you get 100%? Use rare-event heatwave modelling to test probability estimates, sampling uncertainty and how physicists validate a computer model.

Read how models sample rare heatwaves

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Question

9 marks

Answer all parts. Show your working and give units where appropriate.

1(a)

A model represents 2.0 x 10^15 kg of air over a region. The mean temperature of this air rises by 4.0 K. Use a mean specific heat capacity of 1.0 x 10^3 J kg^-1 K^-1. Estimate the increase in internal energy of the modelled air.

[3 marks]

1(b)

A simulated heatwave develops when the rate of energy absorbed by the land-atmosphere region remains greater than the rate at which energy leaves. Explain how this imbalance raises air temperature and give one physical process the model must represent.

[3 marks]

1(c)

The fast AI forecast and the slower physics-based climate model do not always predict exactly the same temperature. Before the combined method is trusted, researchers must check both its physical energy balance and its predictions. Describe three checks they should make.

[3 marks]

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