Tolerance — acceptable range of variation. E.g. 50mm ±0.5mm means 49.5–50.5mm acceptable.
Exam questions — 4 questions · 10 marks · real AQA 8552 past papers
Extended questions included — read the hint. AI marks against the AQA 8552 mark scheme.
1 markMass production mouldingAQA 8552 style
Which process is most suitable for mass producing thousands of identical plastic bottle caps?
A Vacuum forming
B 3D printing
C Injection moulding
D Laser cutting
4 marksTurning to a tolerance on a latheAQA 8552 Jun 2022 Q14 style
Describe how a centre lathe is used to turn a metal rod to a precise diameter within a tolerance. Explain what tolerance means and why it matters. (4 marks)
Hint: Cover: chuck holds work → tool set by cross-slide → carriage moves → measure with micrometer → fine cuts → within tolerance. Define tolerance AND explain why it matters for fit.
+40 XP
1 markSoldering purposeAQA 8552 Jun 2023 Q19
What is the purpose of soldering in electronics?
A To weld metal components permanently using high heat that melts the base materials
B To connect electronic components and wires to a PCB using a low-temperature filler metal that melts between them
C To remove material from components to achieve a precise shape
D To coat components in a protective layer to prevent corrosion
3 marksVacuum forming processAQA 8552 style
Describe the vacuum forming process to make a plastic tray. (3 marks)
Hint: Steps: clamp sheet → heat → mould contact → vacuum applied → cool → remove → trim. Draft angles are needed for full marks.