Exam Focus

This topic is one of the most common sources of evaluation questions in AQA Physics — especially 4- and 6-mark questions. Common question types include:

• "Give two advantages and two disadvantages of wind energy." (4 marks)
• "Explain why the UK is increasing its use of renewable energy." (4 marks)
• "Compare nuclear power with wind power as methods of generating electricity. In your answer, consider reliability, cost, and environmental impact." (6 marks)
• "Suggest why a country might choose to build a new gas power station rather than a wind farm, even though gas releases CO₂." (2-3 marks)
• "State two ways individuals can reduce energy use at home." (2 marks)

Command words to watch:

• Give / State — one-word or short-phrase answer; no explanation needed
• Describe — say what happens; no "why" required
• Explain — say what AND why (use the word "because")
• Compare — identify similarities AND differences between two things
• Evaluate — discuss advantages AND disadvantages, then reach a justified conclusion