N-Level Technical and Vocational Skills 4

Question 1

What is the function of a transformer?

Accepted Answer

To change (step up or step down) the voltage of an alternating current

Answer

A transformer changes AC voltage: step-up transformers increase voltage; step-down transformers decrease it. They enable efficient long-distance power transmission at high voltage and safe home use at low voltage.

Question 2

In a technical context, what does 'maintenance' mean?

Accepted Answer

Regular inspection, cleaning, and repair of equipment to keep it working safely and efficiently

Answer

Maintenance involves regular scheduled checks, cleaning, lubrication, and repair of equipment to prevent breakdowns, extend service life, maintain safety, and ensure efficient operation.

Question 3

What is the purpose of a gantt chart in project planning?

Accepted Answer

To show tasks, their duration, and timeline for a project — helping manage time and resources

Answer

A Gantt chart is a bar chart showing the start date, duration, and end date of project tasks, allowing teams to track progress, identify dependencies, and manage time effectively.

Question 4

What material property does 'tensile strength' describe?

Accepted Answer

The ability of a material to resist being pulled apart or stretched

Answer

Tensile strength is the maximum stress a material can withstand when being stretched or pulled before it breaks. High tensile strength materials (steel cables) are used where stretching forces are applied.

Question 5

What is the difference between soldering and welding?

Accepted Answer

Soldering joins metals using a low-temperature filler metal (below 450°C) without melting the base metals; welding melts and fuses the base metals themselves at high temperatures

Answer

Soldering (electronics, plumbing) uses a filler (solder) at low temperature without melting base metals — a soft join. Welding melts and fuses the base metals at high temperature — a strong structural join.

GCE N-Level Practice Test

GCE N-Level Practice Test

N-Level Technical and Vocational Skills 4