Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

Introduction
• This chapter teaches you how to deal with
forces acting on an object

• You will learn how to use several formulae

(inspired by Isaac Newton)

• You will learn how to model situations

involving friction, particles moving on slopes
and when joined over pulleys

• You will also learn laws of momentum and

impulse Isam Al Hassan 0796988794
Isam Al Hassan 0796988794
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
You can use Newton’s Laws and the formula F You need to understand all the forces at work in
= ma to solve problems involving forces and various situations…
acceleration
R
Before we start looking at question we need to The Normal Reaction
go through some „basics‟ that are essential for
you to understand this chapter… The normal reaction acts
perpendicular to the
Newton’s second law of motion surface which an object is
resting on
“The force needed to accelerate a particle is
equal to the product of the mass of the object
and the acceleration required” It is equal and opposite to
the force exerted on the
mg (mass surface by the object,
F = ma x gravity) which is determined largely
by gravity and the mass of
Force is measured in Newtons (N). A Newton is: the object

“The force that will cause a mass of 1kg to

accelerate at 1ms-2” The table matches the force from the brick,
which is why the brick remains still on the
table (there of course would be a maximum
possible weight the table could take, but we
will not worry about this for now!
Isam Al Hassan 0796988794
3A
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
You can use Newton’s Laws and the formula F You need to understand all the forces at work in
= ma to solve problems involving forces and various situations…
acceleration
Frictional Direction of
Before we start looking at question we need to Force motion
go through some „basics‟ that are essential for
you to understand this chapter…

Newton’s second law of motion

Frictional Force
“The force needed to accelerate a particle is
equal to the product of the mass of the object The frictional force opposes
and the acceleration required” motion between two „rough‟
surfaces
F = ma
Although it is a force, friction does not
cause movement in its own direction. It
Force is measured in Newtons (N). A Newton is: just reduces the effect of another
force
“The force that will cause a mass of 1kg to
accelerate at 1ms-2” Surfaces will have a maximum level of
friction where it is unable to completely
prevent movement

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3A
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
You can use Newton’s Laws and the formula F You need to understand all the forces at work in
= ma to solve problems involving forces and various situations…
acceleration
Tension in
Before we start looking at question we need to string
go through some „basics‟ that are essential for
you to understand this chapter…

Newton’s second law of motion

Tension
“The force needed to accelerate a particle is
equal to the product of the mass of the object If an object is being pulled
and the acceleration required” along (for example by a string),
then the force acting on the
object is called the Tension
F = ma
Tension = PULLING force
Force is measured in Newtons (N). A Newton is:

“The force that will cause a mass of 1kg to

accelerate at 1ms-2”

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3A
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
You can use Newton’s Laws and the formula F You need to understand all the forces at work in
= ma to solve problems involving forces and various situations…
acceleration

Before we start looking at question we need to Thrust

go through some „basics‟ that are essential for
you to understand this chapter…

Newton’s second law of motion

Thrust
“The force needed to accelerate a particle is
equal to the product of the mass of the object If an object is being pushed along (for
and the acceleration required” example by a rod), then the force acting on
the object is called the Thrust (or sometimes
compression)
F = ma
Tension = PUSHING force
Force is measured in Newtons (N). A Newton is:

“The force that will cause a mass of 1kg to

accelerate at 1ms-2”

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3A
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
You can use Newton’s Laws and the formula F
= ma to solve problems involving forces and
acceleration
Before we start looking at question we need to
go through some „basics‟ that are essential for
you to understand this chapter…
You need to understand all the forces at work in
various situations…
Resistance
Any object moving through air, fluid or a solid
will experience resistance caused by the
particles in the way

Newton’s second law of motion

“The force needed to accelerate a particle is Gravity
equal to the product of the mass of the object
and the acceleration required” Gravity is the force between any object and
the earth.
 The Force caused by gravity acting on an
F = ma object is its weight

Force is measured in Newtons (N). A Newton is:  Remember Newton‟s formula…

“The force that will cause a mass of 1kg to 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎  The Force is called the weight
accelerate at 1ms-2”  Mass is just mass!
 The acceleration due to gravity is
𝑊 = 𝑚𝑔 9.8ms-2 (or can be left as „g‟

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3A
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
You can use Newton’s Laws and the formula F You need to understand all the forces at work in
= ma to solve problems involving forces and various situations…
acceleration
Resolving
Before we start looking at question we need to
go through some „basics‟ that are essential for When there are multiple forces acting on an
you to understand this chapter… object, we „resolve‟ these forces in different
directions
Newton’s second law of motion
“The force needed to accelerate a particle is  One direction will usually be the direction of
equal to the product of the mass of the object acceleration
and the acceleration required”
 The other will be perpendicular to this
F = ma

Force is measured in Newtons (N). A Newton is:

“The force that will cause a mass of 1kg to

accelerate at 1ms-2”

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3A
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
You can use Newton’s Laws and the formula F
= ma to solve problems involving forces and
acceleration

Normal
R Reaction 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎

𝑊 = 𝑚𝑔

Tension

mg (mass
x gravity)

Frictional Direction of
Force motion Thrust

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3A
𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎
Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
You can use Newton’s Laws and the
formula F = ma to solve problems
involving forces and acceleration

Find the weight in Newtons, of a particle

of mass 12kg

𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎
The mass is already in kg, and use
acceleration due to gravity
𝐹 = 12 × 9.8
Calculate
𝐹 = 117.6𝑁 As the acceleration was given to
2sf, you should give you answer
to the same accuracy
𝐹 = 120𝑁
 Ensure you use the exact
amount in any subsequent
calculations though!

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3A
𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎
Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
You can use Newton’s Laws and the
formula F = ma to solve problems
involving forces and acceleration

Find the acceleration when a particle of

mass 1.5kg is acted on by a force of 6N

𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎
Sub in F and m
6 = 1.5𝑎
Divide by 1.5
4=𝑎

𝑎 = 4𝑚𝑠 −2

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3A
𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎
Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
You can use Newton’s Laws and the In this example you need to consider the horizontal
formula F = ma to solve problems forces and vertical forces separately (This is called
involving forces and acceleration resolving)

Resolving Horizontally
Find the values of the missing forces
acting on the object in the diagram below Take the direction of acceleration as the positive one

𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎 Sub in values. You must subtract any

2ms-2 forces acting in the opposite direction!
𝑋 − 4 = (2 × 2)
Y Calculate
𝑋−4=4
Add 4
𝑋 = 8𝑁
4N 2kg X Resolving Vertically
Take the direction of the force Y as positive
𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎 Sub in values. Acceleration is 0 as
2g N there is none in the vertical direction
𝑌 − 2𝑔 = (2 × 0)
Calculate
𝑌 − 2𝑔 = 0
Isam Al Hassan 0796988794 Add 2g
𝑌 = 2𝑔 (19.6𝑁) 3A
𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎
Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
You can use Newton’s Laws and the In this example you need to consider the horizontal
formula F = ma to solve problems forces and vertical forces separately (This is called
involving forces and acceleration resolving)

Resolving Horizontally
Find the values of the missing forces
acting on the object in the diagram below Take the direction of acceleration as the positive one

𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎 Sub in values. You must subtract any

2ms-2 forces acting in the opposite direction!
80 − 𝑋 = (4 × 2)
Y Calculate
80 − 𝑋 = 8
20N Add X and
Subtract 8
72𝑁 = 𝑋
80N 4kg X Resolving Vertically
Take the direction of the force Y as positive
𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎 Sub in values. Acceleration
is 0 as there is none in the
4g N vertical direction
𝑌 − 20 − 4𝑔 = (4 × 0)
Calculate
𝑌 − 20 − 4𝑔 = 0
Isam Al Hassan 0796988794 Add 20, add 4g
𝑌 = 20 + 4𝑔 (59.2𝑁) 3A
Isam Al Hassan 0796988794
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
You can solve problems involving forces by a ms-2
Start by drawing
drawing a diagram including all relevant a diagram
forces, and then resolving in multiple R
directions if necessary

A particle of mass 5kg is pulled along a rough 4N 5kg 20N

horizontal table by a force of 20N, with a
frictional force of 4N acting against it. Given
that the particle is initially at rest, find: 5g N

a) The acceleration of the particle a) 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎 Resolve horizontally and sub in

b) The distance travelled by the particle in values. Take the direction of
the first 4 seconds 20 − 4 = (5 × 𝑎) acceleration as positive
Calculate a
c) The magnitude of the normal reaction 𝑎 = 3.2𝑚𝑠 −2
between the particle and the table

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3B
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
You can solve problems involving forces by 3.2ms-2
Start by drawing
drawing a diagram including all relevant a diagram
forces, and then resolving in multiple R
directions if necessary

A particle of mass 5kg is pulled along a rough 4N 5kg 20N

horizontal table by a force of 20N, with a
frictional force of 4N acting against it. Given
5g N Use SUVAT
that the particle is initially at rest, find:
b) 𝑠 = ? 𝑢=0 𝑣 =? 𝑎 = 3.2 𝑡=4
a) The acceleration of the particle – 3.2ms-2
b) The distance travelled by the particle in 1
the first 4 seconds 𝑠 = 𝑢𝑡 + 𝑎𝑡 2
2
c) The magnitude of the normal reaction Sub in values
between the particle and the table 1
𝑠 = (0 × 4) + (3.2)(42 )
2
Calculate
𝑠 = 25.6𝑚

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3B
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
You can solve problems involving forces by 3.2ms-2
Start by drawing
drawing a diagram including all relevant a diagram
forces, and then resolving in multiple R
directions if necessary

A particle of mass 5kg is pulled along a rough 4N 5kg 20N

horizontal table by a force of 20N, with a
frictional force of 4N acting against it. Given
that the particle is initially at rest, find: 5g N

a) The acceleration of the particle – 3.2ms-2 c) 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎

Resolve vertically, taking R
b) The distance travelled by the particle in as the positive direction
the first 4 seconds – 25.6m 𝑅 − 5𝑔 = (5 × 0)
c) The magnitude of the normal reaction Calculate
between the particle and the table 𝑅 = 5𝑔 (49𝑁)

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3B
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
You can solve problems involving forces T Start by drawing
by drawing a diagram including all a diagram
relevant forces, and then resolving in
multiple directions if necessary
2ms-2 0.5kg
A small pebble of mass 500g is attached
to the lower end of a light string. Find
the tension in the string when the pebble
is: 0.5g N

a) Moving upwards with an acceleration a) 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎 Resolve vertically, taking the

of 2ms-2 direction of the acceleration
𝑇 − 0.5𝑔 = (0.5 × 2) as positive
Calculate T
b) Moving downwards with a
deceleration of 4ms-2 𝑇 = 1 + 0.5𝑔

𝑇 = 5.9𝑁

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3B
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
You can solve problems involving forces T Start by drawing
by drawing a diagram including all a diagram
relevant forces, and then resolving in
multiple directions if necessary
-4ms-2 0.5kg In this case, the pebble is
moving downwards at a
A small pebble of mass 500g is attached
decreasing rate, so you can
to the lower end of a light string. Find
put the acceleration on as
the tension in the string when the pebble
negative
is: 0.5g N

a) Moving upwards with an acceleration b) 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎 Resolve vertically, taking the

of 2ms-2 – 5.9N direction of movement as
0.5𝑔 − 𝑇 = (0.5 × −4) positive
Calculate T
b) Moving downwards with a
deceleration of 4ms-2 𝑇 = 2 + 0.5𝑔

𝑇 = 6.9𝑁

Even though the pebble is moving

downwards, there is more tension in the
string as the pebble is decelerating – the
Isam Al Hassanstring is working against gravity!
0796988794
3B
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
a ms-2
You can solve problems involving forces Start by drawing
by drawing a diagram including all R a diagram
relevant forces, and then resolving in
multiple directions if necessary It is important to note that
6N 3kg
the initial projection speed
A particle of mass 3kg is projected at an is NOT a force, there are
initial speed of 10ms-1 in the horizontal actually no forces acting in
3g N
direction. As it travels, it meets a the positive direction
constant resistance of magnitude 6N.
Calculate the deceleration of the particle
and the distance travelled by the time it Deceleration
comes to rest.
𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎 Take the direction of movement as
positive – remember to include 0
as the positive force!
0 − 6 = (3 × 𝑎)
Calculate a
−2 = 𝑎

So the deceleration is 2ms-2

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3B
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
a ms-2
You can solve problems involving forces Start by drawing
by drawing a diagram including all R a diagram
relevant forces, and then resolving in
multiple directions if necessary It is important to note that
6N 3kg
the initial projection speed
A particle of mass 3kg is projected at an is NOT a force, there are
initial speed of 10ms-1 in the horizontal actually no forces acting in
3g N
direction. As it travels, it meets a the positive direction
constant resistance of magnitude 6N.
Calculate the deceleration of the particle
and the distance travelled by the time it Distance travelled
comes to rest.
𝑠 =? 𝑢 = 10 𝑣 = 0 𝑎 = −2 𝑡 =?
Deceleration = 2ms-2
𝑣 2 = 𝑢2 + 2𝑎𝑠
Sub in values
2 2
0 = 10 + 2(−2)𝑠
Work through
0 = 100 − 4𝑠 to calculate s

𝑠 = 25𝑚

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3B
Isam Al Hassan 0796988794
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line However, a force at an
angle will have some effect
If a force at applied at an angle to in BOTH the horizontal and
the direction of motion you can resolve vertical directions!
it to find the component of the force
O A O
acting in the direction of motion
S H C H T A

A horizontal force has no effect on Opp = Sinθ xAdj

Hyp= Cosθ x Hyp
the object in the vertical direction 10N
Opp = Sin20Adj
x 10= Cos20 x 10
Hyp
Opp
10N
10sin20
20°

Adj
10N 10cos20
A vertical force has
no effect on the
object in the
So a force can be split into its horizontal and
horizontal direction
vertical components using Trigonometry!

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3C
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
y
If a force at applied at an angle to
the direction of motion you can resolve 9N
it to find the component of the force
acting in the direction of motion 9Sin40
40°
Find the component of each force in the x
9Cos40
x and y-directions

Force in the x-direction Force in the y-direction

= 9Cos40 = 9Sin40

= 6.89N = 5.79N

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3C
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
y
If a force at applied at an angle to
the direction of motion you can resolve
it to find the component of the force 12N
acting in the direction of motion
12Sin23
23° x
Find the component of each force in the 12Cos23
x and y-directions

Force in the x-direction Force in the y-direction

= 12Cos23 = 12Sin23

= 11.05N = 4.69N

= -11.05N

(This will be negative as it is

the opposite direction to x!)

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3C
Isam Al Hassan 0796988794
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
You can calculate the magnitude of a frictional
force using the coefficient of friction

Friction is a force which opposes movement

between two „rough‟ surfaces.

It is dependent on two things:

1) The normal reaction between the two surfaces

2) The coefficient of friction between the two
surfaces

The maximum frictional force is calculated as

follows:
𝜇 = 𝑐𝑜𝑒𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝐹𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛
𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = 𝜇𝑅
𝑅 = 𝑡𝑕𝑒 𝑛𝑜𝑟𝑚𝑎𝑙 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛

If a surface is described as „smooth‟, the

implication is that the coefficient of friction is 0.

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3D
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
a ms-2 Draw a diagram
You can calculate the magnitude of a frictional R
force using the coefficient of friction

Friction is a force which opposes movement F 5kg 10N

between two „rough‟ surfaces.
𝜇 = 𝑐𝑜𝑒𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝐹𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛
𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = 𝜇𝑅
𝑅 = 𝑡𝑕𝑒 𝑛𝑜𝑟𝑚𝑎𝑙 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 5g N
We need to find the maximum possible frictional force
 To do this we need R, the normal reaction
A block of mass 5kg is lying at rest on rough
horizontal ground. The coefficient of friction 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎
between the block and the ground is 0.4. A Resolve vertically
horizontal force, P, is applied to the block. Find 𝑅 − 5𝑔 = (5 × 0)
the magnitude of the frictional force acting on Calculate R
the block and its acceleration when: 𝑅 = 5𝑔 (49𝑁)
Now we can calculate the maximum possible frictional force
a) P = 10N
b) P = 19.6N 𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = 𝜇𝑅
Sub in values
c) P = 30N 𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = (0.4 × 49)
Calculate FMAX
𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 =
Isam Al Hassan 0796988794 19.6𝑁
3D
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
a ms-2 Draw a diagram
You can calculate the magnitude of a frictional R 𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = 19.6𝑁
force using the coefficient of friction

Friction is a force which opposes movement 10N

F 5kg 10N
between two „rough‟ surfaces.
𝜇 = 𝑐𝑜𝑒𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝐹𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛
𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = 𝜇𝑅
𝑅 = 𝑡𝑕𝑒 𝑛𝑜𝑟𝑚𝑎𝑙 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 5g N

The maximum frictional force is 19.6 N

A block of mass 5kg is lying at rest on rough
horizontal ground. The coefficient of friction
between the block and the ground is 0.4. A
horizontal force, P, is applied to the block. Find
the magnitude of the frictional force acting on
the block and its acceleration when:
a) P = 10N
b) P = 19.6N
c) P = 30N
Any force will be opposed by friction up to
this value
For part a), the force is only 10N
 Therefore, the frictional force will match
this at 10N, preventing movement
 Hence, there is also no acceleration

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3D
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
a ms-2 Draw a diagram
You can calculate the magnitude of a frictional R 𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = 19.6𝑁
force using the coefficient of friction

Friction is a force which opposes movement 19.6N

F 5kg 19.6N
between two „rough‟ surfaces.
𝜇 = 𝑐𝑜𝑒𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝐹𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛
𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = 𝜇𝑅
𝑅 = 𝑡𝑕𝑒 𝑛𝑜𝑟𝑚𝑎𝑙 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 5g N

The maximum frictional force is 19.6 N

A block of mass 5kg is lying at rest on rough
horizontal ground. The coefficient of friction
between the block and the ground is 0.4. A
horizontal force, P, is applied to the block. Find
the magnitude of the frictional force acting on
the block and its acceleration when:
a) P = 10N
b) P = 19.6N
c) P = 30N
Any force will be opposed by friction up to
this value
For part b), the force is only 19.6N
 Therefore, the frictional force will match
this at 19.6N, preventing movement
 Hence, there is also no acceleration
 This situation is called „limiting
equilibrium‟, as the object is on the point
of movement

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3D
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
a ms-2 Draw a diagram
You can calculate the magnitude of a frictional R 𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = 19.6𝑁
force using the coefficient of friction

Friction is a force which opposes movement 19.6N

F 5kg 30N
between two „rough‟ surfaces.
𝜇 = 𝑐𝑜𝑒𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝐹𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛
𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = 𝜇𝑅
𝑅 = 𝑡𝑕𝑒 𝑛𝑜𝑟𝑚𝑎𝑙 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 5g N

For part c), the force is 30N

A block of mass 5kg is lying at rest on rough The frictional force will oppose 19.6N of this,
horizontal ground. The coefficient of friction but no more.
between the block and the ground is 0.4. A  Hence, the object will accelerate…
horizontal force, P, is applied to the block. Find  Resolve horizontally!
the magnitude of the frictional force acting on
the block and its acceleration when: 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎
Sub in values and resolve
horizontally
a) P = 10N 30 − 19.6 = 5 × 𝑎
b) P = 19.6N Calculate
c) P = 30N
10.4 = 5𝑎
Divide by 5
2.08 = 𝑎
Isam Al Hassan 0796988794
So the acceleration will be 2.08ms-2 3D
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
R Draw a diagram
You can calculate the magnitude of a frictional
force using the coefficient of friction
F 5kg P

Friction is a force which opposes movement

between two „rough‟ surfaces. 5g N
𝜇 = 𝑐𝑜𝑒𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝐹𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛
𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = 𝜇𝑅
𝑅 = 𝑡𝑕𝑒 𝑛𝑜𝑟𝑚𝑎𝑙 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 Resolve vertically to find the normal reaction

A 5kg box lies at rest on a rough horizontal floor. 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎

Sub in values and
The coefficient of friction between the box and resolve vertically
the floor is 0.5. A force P is applied to the box. 𝑅 − 5𝑔 = (5 × 0)
Calculate the value of P required to cause the box Calculate
to accelerate if: 𝑅 = 49𝑁

a) P is applied horizontally Now find the maximum frictional force

b) P is applied at an angle of θ above the
horizontal, where tanθ = 3/4 𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = 𝜇𝑅
Sub in values
𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = (0.5 × 49)
Calculate
𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = 24.5𝑁
Isam Al Hassan 0796988794
So P will have to exceed 24.5N to make the object move! 3D
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line Draw a diagram
R P
You can calculate the magnitude of a frictional Psinθ
0.6P
force using the coefficient of friction θ
F 5kg
Pcosθ
0.8P
Friction is a force which opposes movement
between two „rough‟ surfaces. 5g N
𝜇 = 𝑐𝑜𝑒𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝐹𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛
𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = 𝜇𝑅 We need to find the values of Cosθ and Sinθ. The
𝑅 = 𝑡𝑕𝑒 𝑛𝑜𝑟𝑚𝑎𝑙 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 ratio for Tanθ can be used to find these!
A 5kg box lies at rest on a rough horizontal floor.
The coefficient of friction between the box and
O A O Tanθ = 3/4
the floor is 0.5. A force P is applied to the box.
Calculate the value of P required to cause the box S H C H T A
So Opp = 3
to accelerate if: And Adj = 4
Hyp
We can find the 5
a) P is applied horizontally – 24.5N hypotenuse using 3 Opp
b) P is applied at an angle of θ above the Pythagoras‟
horizontal, where tanθ = 3/4 Theorem! θ
4
Adj
Sinθ = 3/5 Cosθ = 4/5
Isam Al Hassan 0796988794
Sinθ = 0.6 Cosθ = 0.8 3D
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line Draw a diagram
R P
You can calculate the magnitude of a frictional 0.6P
force using the coefficient of friction θ
F 5kg
0.8P
Friction is a force which opposes movement
between two „rough‟ surfaces. 5g N
𝜇 = 𝑐𝑜𝑒𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝐹𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 Resolve vertically to find the normal reaction
𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = 𝜇𝑅
𝑅 = 𝑡𝑕𝑒 𝑛𝑜𝑟𝑚𝑎𝑙 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛
𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎
A 5kg box lies at rest on a rough horizontal floor. Sub in values and
resolve vertically
The coefficient of friction between the box and 𝑅 + 0.6𝑃 − 5𝑔 = (5 × 0)
the floor is 0.5. A force P is applied to the box. We find the normal
Calculate the value of P required to cause the box reaction in terms of P
𝑅 = 49 − 0.6𝑃
to accelerate if:
Now find the maximum frictional force
a) P is applied horizontally – 24.5N
b) P is applied at an angle of θ above the 𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = 𝜇𝑅
Sub in
horizontal, where tanθ = 3/4
values
𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = 0.5(49 − 0.6𝑃)
Find Fmax in
terms of P
𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = 24.5 − 0.3𝑃
So,
Isam Al Hassan 0.8P will have to exceed this if the box is to
0796988794
move… 3D
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line 𝐹
Draw a diagram
= 24.5 − 0.3𝑃 𝑀𝐴𝑋
R P
You can calculate the magnitude of a frictional 0.6P
force using the coefficient of friction θ
24.5 – 0.3P
F 5kg
0.8P
Friction is a force which opposes movement
between two „rough‟ surfaces. 5g N
𝜇 = 𝑐𝑜𝑒𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝐹𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 We need to find the value for P for which the
𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = 𝜇𝑅
𝑅 = 𝑡𝑕𝑒 𝑛𝑜𝑟𝑚𝑎𝑙 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 box is in „limiting equilibrium‟ – that is, so the
horizontal forces cancel each other out…
A 5kg box lies at rest on a rough horizontal floor.
The coefficient of friction between the box and Resolve horizontally…
the floor is 0.5. A force P is applied to the box.
Calculate the value of P required to cause the box 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎
Sub in values and
to accelerate if: resolve horizontally
0.8𝑃 − (24.5 − 0.3𝑃) = (5 × 0)
Careful with the
a) P is applied horizontally – 24.5N bracket!
0.8𝑃 − 24.5 + 0.3𝑃 = 0
Rearrange and
b) P is applied at an angle of θ above the solve
horizontal, where tanθ = 3/4 1.1𝑃 = 24.5

𝑃 = 22𝑁 (2𝑠𝑓)
P must exceed 22N, which is less than when P was horizontal
 The reason is because some of the force is upwards, this
Isam Al Hassan alleviates
0796988794 some of the friction between the surfaces…
3D
Isam Al Hassan 0796988794
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line R

You can extend this process to

particles on an inclined plane, by
considering forces parallel and
perpendicular to the plane
60°
When an object is on an inclined plane, 30° 3gCos30
we consider the forces acting parallel 3g
to the plane and perpendicular to the
plane (instead of vertically and 30° 90° 3gSin30
horizontally)

This is because any movement will be
parallel to the plane (and we always
then consider the direction which is
perpendicular to any movement)
However, gravity will always work in a
vertical direction so must be split into
parallel and perpendicular directions…
Isam Al Hassan
Above is a box resting on a plane inclined at an angle of 30° to
the horizontal
 Label gravity, which always acts vertically downwards
 Gravity must then be split into the parallel and
perpendicular components
 The angle in the triangle created is the same as the
angle the plane is inclined at (if you work out angles you
can see why!)
 Make sure you think carefully about which is Sine and
which is Cosine!
 Don‟t
forget the normal reaction, and any other forces
0796988794
which are involved in the question! 3E
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line R
2N
You can extend this process to
particles on an inclined plane, by
considering forces parallel and
perpendicular to the plane 2gCos20
20°
2g
A box of mass 2kg is resting on a
smooth plane inclined at an angle of 20°
20° to the horizontal. It meets 2gSin20
resistance of 2N as it travels down
As the plane is „smooth‟, there is no need to consider friction or
the slope
the normal reaction
a) Calculate the acceleration of the
box down the slope Resolve parallel to the plane
b) If the box starts 10m up the plane,
calculate the velocity of the box at 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎
the bottom of the plane Sub in values and
resolve parallel
2𝑔𝑆𝑖𝑛20 − 2 = (2 × 𝑎)
Work out some parts (to keep
accuracy)
19.6𝑆𝑖𝑛20 − 2 = 2𝑎
Round to 2sf as gravity is given
to this degree of accuracy
2.4 = 𝑎 (2𝑠𝑓)

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3E
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line R
2N
You can extend this process to
particles on an inclined plane, by
considering forces parallel and
perpendicular to the plane 2gCos20
20°
2g
A box of mass 2kg is resting on a
smooth plane inclined at an angle of 20°
20° to the horizontal. It meets 2gSin20
resistance of 2N as it travels down
the slope 𝑠 = 10 𝑢=0 𝑣 =? 𝑎 = 2.4 𝑡 =?
a) Calculate the acceleration of the
box down the slope – 2.4ms-2 𝑣 2 = 𝑢2 + 2𝑎𝑠
b) If the box starts 10m up the plane, Sub in values
calculate the velocity of the box at 2 2
𝑣 = 0 + 2(2.4)(10) Remember to use the exact
the bottom of the plane value for a, not the rounded one!
𝑣 2 = 02 + 2(2.4)(10)
Calculate
2
𝑣 = 47.03 …
Square root
𝑣 = 6.6𝑚𝑠 −1 (2𝑠𝑓)

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3E
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line R
0.8mg
F
a
You can extend this process to
particles on an inclined plane, by
considering forces parallel and
perpendicular to the plane mgCosθ
0.8mg
θ
mg
A particle is held at rest on a rough
plane inclined at an angle of θ to the
mgSinθ
horizontal, where Tanθ is 0.75. If the θ
coefficient of friction between the
particle and the plane is 0.5, find the We need the normal reaction in order to find the maximum
acceleration of the particle. frictional force
 Resolve perpendicular to the plane

You can find the below values (based 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎 Resolve perpendicular

on tanθ = 0.75) by drawing a right to the plane
angled triangle and finding the 𝑅 − 𝑚𝑔𝐶𝑜𝑠θ = (𝑚 × 0)
We have to use „m‟ for now as
hypotenuse (as in section 3D)
we do not know the mass…
𝑅 = 𝑚𝑔𝐶𝑜𝑠θ
We know the value of Cosθ
Tanθ = 3/4 𝑅 = 0.8𝑚𝑔
Sinθ = 3/5 (0.6)
Cosθ = 4/5 (0.8)
Isam Al Hassan 0796988794
3E
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line 0.8mg
0.4mg
F
a
You can extend this process to
particles on an inclined plane, by
considering forces parallel and
perpendicular to the plane
0.8mg
θ
mg
A particle is held at rest on a rough
plane inclined at an angle of θ to the
mgSinθ
horizontal, where Tanθ is 0.75. If the θ
coefficient of friction between the
particle and the plane is 0.5, find the
acceleration of the particle. 𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = 𝜇𝑅
Sub in values
You can find the below values (based 𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = (0.5 × 0.8𝑚𝑔)
on tanθ = 0.75) by drawing a right Calculate
𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = 0.4𝑚𝑔
angled triangle and finding the
hypotenuse (as in section 3D)

Tanθ = 3/4
Sinθ = 3/5 (0.6)
Cosθ = 4/5 (0.8)
Isam Al Hassan 0796988794
3E
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line 0.8mg
0.4mg
a
You can extend this process to
particles on an inclined plane, by
considering forces parallel and
perpendicular to the plane
0.8mg
θ
mg
A particle is held at rest on a rough
plane inclined at an angle of θ to the
mgSinθ
horizontal, where Tanθ is 0.75. If the θ
coefficient of friction between the
particle and the plane is 0.5, find the Now we have all the forces involved acting in the required
acceleration of the particle. directions, we can now calculate the acceleration of the particle…
 Resolve parallel to the plane

You can find the below values (based

on tanθ = 0.75) by drawing a right 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎 Sub in values and resolve
angled triangle and finding the parallel
hypotenuse (as in section 3D) 𝑚𝑔𝑆𝑖𝑛θ − 0.4𝑚𝑔 = 𝑚𝑎
The m‟s cancel (meaning the mass
does not affect the acceleration!)
𝑔𝑆𝑖𝑛θ − 0.4𝑔 = 𝑎
Tanθ = 3/4
Calculate a (remember, we
Sinθ = 3/5 (0.6) (9.8 × 0.6) − (0.4 × 9.8) = 𝑎 know Sinθ)
Cosθ = 4/5 (0.8) 2.0𝑚𝑠 −2 = 𝑎 (2𝑠𝑓)
Isam Al Hassan 0796988794
3E
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line 2.5ms 43N
R
-2

You can extend this process to

particles on an inclined plane, by 25N
considering forces parallel and
10°
perpendicular to the plane
25Sin10 25Cos10 4gCos10
10°
4g
A mass of 4kg is pushed up a plane by
a horizontal force of magnitude 25N.
10° 4gSin10
The plane is inclined to the horizontal
at 10° and accelerates at 2.5ms-2.
Calculate the coefficient of friction We need to split the forces into parallel and perpendicular components…
between the box and the plane. Now we can resolve perpendicular to find the normal reaction, and
hence, the maximum frictional resistance created
 In this type of question you should
Resolve perpendicular to the plane…
proceed as if you did have the
coefficient of friction. You will 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎 Sub in values and resolve
end up with an equation where you perpendicular
can solve for µ. 𝑅 − 25𝑆𝑖𝑛10 − 4𝑔𝐶𝑜𝑠10 = (4 × 0)
Rearrange
𝑅 = 25𝑆𝑖𝑛10 + 4𝑔𝐶𝑜𝑠10
Calculate
𝑅 = 43𝑁 (2𝑠𝑓)

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3E
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line 2.5ms 43N
-2

43µ
F

You can extend this process to

particles on an inclined plane, by 25N
considering forces parallel and
10°
perpendicular to the plane
25Sin10 25Cos10 4gCos10
10°
4g
A mass of 4kg is pushed up a plane by
a horizontal force of magnitude 25N.
10° 4gSin10
The plane is inclined to the horizontal
at 10° and accelerates at 2.5ms-2.
Calculate the coefficient of friction Now we can find the maximum frictional force created between the
between the box and the plane. surfaces…

𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = 𝜇𝑅 Sub in values (remember to use exact

 In this type of question you should values, not rounded ones)
proceed as if you did have the 𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = 𝜇 × 43
coefficient of friction. You will Leave in terms of µ
end up with an equation where you 𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = 43𝜇
can solve for µ.

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3E
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line 2.5ms 43N
-2

43µ

You can extend this process to

particles on an inclined plane, by 25N
considering forces parallel and
10°
perpendicular to the plane
25Sin10 25Cos10 4gCos10
10°
4g
A mass of 4kg is pushed up a plane by
a horizontal force of magnitude 25N.
10° 4gSin10
The plane is inclined to the horizontal
at 10° and accelerates at 2.5ms-2.
Calculate the coefficient of friction Now we have all the forces acting perpendicular to the plane, we can
between the box and the plane. find the value of µ
Resolve parallel to the plane…
 In this type of question you should
proceed as if you did have the 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎 Sub in values and resolve
coefficient of friction. You will parallel
25𝐶𝑜𝑠10 − 43𝜇 − 4𝑔𝑆𝑖𝑛10 = (4 × 2.5)
end up with an equation where you Rearrange to find µ
can solve for µ. 25𝐶𝑜𝑠10 − 4𝑔𝑆𝑖𝑛10 − (4 × 2.5) = 43𝜇
Solve exactly
7.8131 … = 43𝜇
Remember to use
exact values!!
0.18 = 𝜇

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3E
Isam Al Hassan 0796988794
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
a
You can solve problems involving connected Q 3g
R2 5g
R1 P
particles by considering the particles
separately
T T
40N
If the system involves the motion of more than 0.6g
F2 3kg Fg1 5kg
one particle, you can consider them separately

If all parts of the system are moving in the 3g 5g

same straight line, you can treat the whole
system as a single particle
Two particles, P and Q, of masses 5kg and 3kg
respectively, are connected by a light
inextensible string. Particle P is pulled along by
a horizontal force of magnitude 40N along a
rough horizontal plane. The coefficient of
friction between the blocks and the plane is
0.2.
The only force acting vertically is the weight, so the normal
reaction for each particle will be equal to this…
We can now work out the maximum friction for each particle…
𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = 𝜇𝑅
Sub in values for particle P
𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = (0.2 × 5𝑔)
Calculate (in terms of g)
𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = 𝑔 𝑁

a) Find the acceleration of each particle

b) Find the tension in the string 𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = 𝜇𝑅
Sub in values for particle Q
c) Explain how the assumption that the string 𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = (0.2 × 3𝑔)
is light and inextensible has been used in
the question Calculate (in terms of g)
𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = 0.6𝑔 𝑁
Isam Al Hassan 0796988794
3F
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
3.04ms
a -2
You can solve problems involving connected Q 3g 5g P
particles by considering the particles
separately
T T
40N
If the system involves the motion of more than 0.6g 3kg g 5kg
one particle, you can consider them separately

If all parts of the system are moving in the 3g 5g

same straight line, you can treat the whole
system as a single particle
Two particles, P and Q, of masses 5kg and 3kg
respectively, are connected by a light
inextensible string. Particle P is pulled along by
a horizontal force of magnitude 40N along a
rough horizontal plane. The coefficient of
friction between the blocks and the plane is
0.2.
a) Find the acceleration of each particle
b) Find the tension in the string
c) Explain how the assumption that the string
is light and inextensible has been used in
the question
Isam Al Hassan 0796988794
Now we can calculate the acceleration for the system as a
whole, since it is all travelling in the same direction
 You will need to consider all forces except the tension in the
string. As it is connecting the particles it is effectively
cancelling itself out!
𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎 Resolve parallel to the plane. Use
the total mass of the particles
40 − 𝑔 − 0.6𝑔 = (8 × 𝑎)
Calculate
24.32 = 8𝑎
Divide by 8
3.04 = 𝑎
As the particles are connected, they will both accelerate
together (the string is „inextensible‟, meaning a fixed length)
3F
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
3.04ms-2
You can solve problems involving connected Q 3g 5g P
particles by considering the particles
separately
T T
40N
If the system involves the motion of more than 0.6g 3kg g 5kg
one particle, you can consider them separately

If all parts of the system are moving in the 3g 5g

same straight line, you can treat the whole
system as a single particle Calculating the tension for particle P
Only include forces acting on P, and resolve parallel
Two particles, P and Q, of masses 5kg and 3kg
respectively, are connected by a light 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎 Resolve parallel to the
inextensible string. Particle P is pulled along by plane. Only particle P
a horizontal force of magnitude 40N along a 40 − 𝑔 − 𝑇 = (5 × 3.04) should be considered
rough horizontal plane. The coefficient of Rearrange for T
friction between the blocks and the plane is 40 − 𝑔 − (5 × 3.04) = 𝑇
0.2.
Calculate
15 = 𝑇
a) Find the acceleration of each particle –
3.04ms-2
b) Find the tension in the string
c) Explain how the assumption that the string
is light and inextensible has been used in
the question
Isam Al Hassan 0796988794
3F
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
3.04ms-2
You can solve problems involving connected Q 3g 5g P
particles by considering the particles
separately
T T
40N
If the system involves the motion of more than 0.6g 3kg g 5kg
one particle, you can consider them separately

If all parts of the system are moving in the 3g 5g

same straight line, you can treat the whole
system as a single particle Imagine we calculated the tension from particle Q instead…
Only include forces acting on Q, and resolve parallel
Two particles, P and Q, of masses 5kg and 3kg
respectively, are connected by a light 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎 Resolve parallel to the plane.
inextensible string. Particle P is pulled along by Only particle Q should be
a horizontal force of magnitude 40N along a 𝑇 − 0.6𝑔 = (3 × 3.04) considered
rough horizontal plane. The coefficient of Rearrange for T
friction between the blocks and the plane is 𝑇 = 3 × 3.04 + 0.6𝑔
0.2.
Calculate
𝑇 = 15
a) Find the acceleration of each particle –
3.04ms-2
So it does not matter which particle we choose –
b) Find the tension in the string – 15N
we get the same value for the tension either way!
c) Explain how the assumption that the string
is light and inextensible has been used in
the question
Isam Al Hassan 0796988794
3F
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
3.04ms-2
You can solve problems involving connected Q 3g 5g P
particles by considering the particles
separately
T T
40N
If the system involves the motion of more than 0.6g 3kg g 5kg
one particle, you can consider them separately

If all parts of the system are moving in the 3g 5g

same straight line, you can treat the whole
system as a single particle How have we used the fact that the string is light and
inextensible?
Two particles, P and Q, of masses 5kg and 3kg
respectively, are connected by a light Light – the string has no mass and the tension will be
inextensible string. Particle P is pulled along by consistent
a horizontal force of magnitude 40N along a
rough horizontal plane. The coefficient of Inextensible – Acceleration is the same across both masses
friction between the blocks and the plane is
0.2.

a) Find the acceleration of each particle –

3.04ms-2
b) Find the tension in the string – 15N
c) Explain how the assumption that the string
is light and inextensible has been used in
the question
Isam Al Hassan 0796988794
3F
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
10.3N
T
You can solve problems involving connected
particles by considering the particles To find the tension in
separately the string you should
0.5ms-2 consider the system as
a whole, as all the
A light scale-pan is attached to a vertical forces will affect it!
A
light inextensible string. The scale pan
carries two masses, A and B. The mass of A 0.4g B
is 400g and the mass of B is 600g. A rests
on top of B. 0.6g

Resolving vertically
The scale pan is raised vertically with an
acceleration of 0.5ms-2. 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎 Resolve vertically. There is no
normal reaction as the pan is
not on a surface
𝑇 − 0.4𝑔 − 0.6𝑔 = (1 × 0.5)
a) Find the Tension in the string Rearrange to find T
b) Find the force exerted on mass B by 𝑇 = 1 × 0.5 + 1𝑔
mass A Calculate
𝑇 = 10.3𝑁
c) Find the force exerted on mass B by
the scale pan

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3F
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
We cannot consider mass B on its own
10.3N
You can solve problems involving connected at this point.
particles by considering the particles
The reason is that the scale pan is
separately also acting on mass B, and we do not
0.5ms-2 know the magnitude of this force

A light scale-pan is attached to a vertical However, the force exerted on mass

light inextensible string. The scale pan
carries two masses, A and B. The mass of A
is 400g and the mass of B is 600g. A rests
on top of B.
A
B by mass A, will be the same as the
0.4g force exerted on mass A by mass B
B  So we can consider mass A instead
(the scale pan is not acting on it)
0.6g

The scale pan is raised vertically with an Resolving forces on A

R
acceleration of 0.5ms-2.  R is the normal reaction, the force
of B acting on A

a) Find the Tension in the string – 10.3N 0.4kg A 0.5ms-2 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎

Sub in forces
b) Find the force exerted on mass B by 0.4g B
mass A 𝑅 − 0.4𝑔 = (0.4 × 0.5)
Calculate
c) Find the force exerted on mass B by 𝑅 = 4.1𝑁 (2𝑠𝑓)
the scale pan

The magnitude of the force from B acting on A is 4.1N.

Therefore, the force from A acting on B must be equal to this!
(since the two masses are staying together)
Isam Al Hassan 0796988794
3F
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
10.3N Now as we have to involve the scale
You can solve problems involving connected pan, we will consider the forces acting
particles by considering the particles on Mass B
separately
0.5ms-2

A light scale-pan is attached to a vertical Draw a diagram for B, remember to

A include the force exerted by A which
light inextensible string. The scale pan
pushes down, and the force from the
carries two masses, A and B. The mass of A 0.4g B scale pan which pushes up, from
is 400g and the mass of B is 600g. A rests beneath…
on top of B. 0.6g

4.1N Resolving forces on B

The scale pan is raised vertically with an
 S is the force exerted by the
acceleration of 0.5ms-2. scale pan on mass B
0.5ms-2
0.6kg B
a) Find the Tension in the string – 10.3N 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎 Sub in
b) Find the force exerted on mass B by 0.6g forces
mass A – 4.1N 𝑆 − 4.1 − 0.6𝑔 = (0.6 × 0.5)
S Calculate
c) Find the force exerted on mass B by 𝑆 = 10.3𝑁
the scale pan
This type of question can be very tricky
to get the hang of – make sure you get
lots of practice!
Isam Al Hassan 0796988794
3F
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
Draw a diagram with all the
You can solve problems involving connected forces on…
particles by considering the particles
separately The heavier particle will move
downwards, pulling the lighter
one upwards
Particles P and Q, of masses 2m and 3m, are T T
attached to the ends of a light inextensible Sometimes you have to set up
string. The string passes over a small, T T two equations with the
smooth, fixed pulley and the masses hang information given, and combine
with the string taut. The system is released them…
from rest. a 2m 3m a
P Q
a) Find the acceleration of each mass
b) Find the tension in the string, in terms 2mg 3mg
of m
c) Find the force exerted on the pulley by Equation using P Equation using Q
the string, in terms of m 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎
d) Find the distance travelled by Q in the Sub in Sub in
first 4 seconds, assuming that P does values values
𝑇 − 2𝑚𝑔 = 2𝑚𝑎 3𝑚𝑔 − 𝑇 = 3𝑚𝑎
not reach the pulley
e) Comment on any modelling assumptions 𝑇 − 2𝑚𝑔 = 2𝑚𝑎
used
3𝑚𝑔 − 𝑇 = 3𝑚𝑎
Add the equations
𝑚𝑔 = 5𝑚𝑎 Cancel m‟s and
together
Isam Al Hassan 0796988794
1.96 = 𝑎 divide g by 5 3F
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
Draw a diagram with all the
You can solve problems involving connected forces on…
particles by considering the particles
separately The heavier particle will move
downwards, pulling the lighter
one upwards
Particles P and Q, of masses 2m and 3m, are T T
attached to the ends of a light inextensible Sometimes you have to set up
string. The string passes over a small, T T two equations with the
smooth, fixed pulley and the masses hang information given, and combine
with the string taut. The system is released them…
from rest. a 2m 3m a
P Q
a) Find the acceleration of each mass –
1.96ms-2 3mg
2mg
b) Find the tension in the string, in terms
of m Equation using P Equation using Q
c) Find the force exerted on the pulley by 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎
the string, in terms of m Sub in Sub in
d) Find the distance travelled by Q in the values values
𝑇 − 2𝑚𝑔 = 2𝑚𝑎 3𝑚𝑔 − 𝑇 = 3𝑚𝑎
first 4 seconds, assuming that P does
not reach the pulley 𝑇 − 2𝑚𝑔 = 2𝑚𝑎 Rearrange
e) Comment on any modelling assumptions to find T
used 𝑇 = 2𝑚𝑎 + 2𝑚𝑔 Sub in g
and a
𝑇 = 2 × 1.96 𝑚 + 2 × 9.8 𝑚 Group up
Isam Al Hassan 0796988794 for m
𝑇 = 23.52𝑚 3F
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
You can solve problems involving connected The force on the pulley is the
particles by considering the particles tension on both sides – these
separately must be added together

Particles P and Q, of masses 2m and 3m, are T

23.52m 23.52m
T
23.52m + 23.52m
attached to the ends of a light inextensible
string. The string passes over a small, T T
= 47.04m
smooth, fixed pulley and the masses hang
with the string taut. The system is released
from rest. a 2m 3m a
P Q
a) Find the acceleration of each mass –
1.96ms-2 3mg
2mg
b) Find the tension in the string, in terms
of m – 23.52m
c) Find the force exerted on the pulley by
the string, in terms of m
d) Find the distance travelled by Q in the
first 4 seconds, assuming that P does
not reach the pulley
e) Comment on any modelling assumptions
used

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3F
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
You can solve problems involving connected As P does not meet the
particles by considering the particles pulley, we assume Q moves
separately consistently

Particles P and Q, of masses 2m and 3m, are 23.52m 23.52m

attached to the ends of a light inextensible
string. The string passes over a small, T T
smooth, fixed pulley and the masses hang
with the string taut. The system is released
from rest. a 2m 3m a
P Q
a) Find the acceleration of each mass –
1.96ms-2 3mg
2mg
b) Find the tension in the string, in terms
of m – 23.52m
𝑠 =? 𝑢=0 𝑣 =? 𝑎 = 1.96 𝑡=4
c) Find the force exerted on the pulley by
the string, in terms of m – 47.04m 1
d) Find the distance travelled by Q in the 𝑠 = 𝑢𝑡 + 𝑎𝑡 2
2 Sub in
first 4 seconds, assuming that P does values
not reach the pulley 1
𝑠 = 0 (4) + (1.96)(4)2
e) Comment on any modelling assumptions 2
Calculate
used
𝑠 = 15.7𝑚
Isam Al Hassan 0796988794
3F
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
You can solve problems involving connected
particles by considering the particles
separately

Particles P and Q, of masses 2m and 3m, are 23.52m 23.52m

attached to the ends of a light inextensible
string. The string passes over a small, T T
smooth, fixed pulley and the masses hang
with the string taut. The system is released
from rest. a 2m 3m a
P Q
a) Find the acceleration of each mass –
1.96ms-2 3mg
2mg
b) Find the tension in the string, in terms
of m – 23.52m Comment on the modelling assumptions used:
c) Find the force exerted on the pulley by
the string, in terms of m – 47.04m Light string  The string has no mass
d) Find the distance travelled by Q in the
first 4 seconds, assuming that P does Inextensible string  The particles move with
not reach the pulley – 15.7metres the same acceleration
e) Comment on any modelling assumptions
used Smooth pulley – No Frictional force, tension
equal on both sides
Isam Al Hassan 0796988794
3F
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line0.4g
R
Draw a diagram and
label all the forces

You can solve problems involving connected T T

particles by considering the particles
separately 0.08g
F A

Two particles A and B of masses 0.4kg and T

0.8kg respectively are connected by a light 0.4g
inextensible string. Particle A lies on a T
rough horizontal table 4.5m from a small a
smooth fixed pulley which is attached to a
the end of the table. The string passes over As we do not know the tension, we will have B
the pulley and B hangs freely, with the to set up and solve 2 equations for a
string taut, 0.5m above the ground. The  Remember particle A will also be
coefficient of friction between A and the affected by friction – we need to know this 0.5m
table is 0.2. The system is released from first… 0.8g
rest. Find:
Find the normal reaction for A (so we can then find the
frictional force)
a) The acceleration of the system
 Resolve vertically for A
b) The velocity at which B hits the ground
c) The total distance travelled by A 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎
Resolve
𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = 𝜇𝑅 Sub
before it comes to rest vertically
in
d) The force the string exerts on the 𝑅 − 0.4𝑔 = (0.4 × 0) 𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = (0.2 × 0.4𝑔)
Rearrange… Solve
pulley
𝑅 = 0.4𝑔 𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = 0.08𝑔

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3F
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line0.4g Draw a diagram and
label all the forces

You can solve problems involving connected T T

particles by considering the particles
separately 0.08g A

Two particles A and B of masses 0.4kg and T

0.8kg respectively are connected by a light 0.4g
inextensible string. Particle A lies on a T
rough horizontal table 4.5m from a small 0.6g
a
smooth fixed pulley which is attached to 0.6g
a
the end of the table. The string passes over  Now we have the frictional force, we can
set up two equations for A and B
B
the pulley and B hangs freely, with the
 As the particles are connected, resolving
string taut, 0.5m above the ground. The
horizontally for A and vertically for B are
coefficient of friction between A and the 0.5m
equivalent… 0.8g
table is 0.2. The system is released from
rest. Find:
Resolving horizontally for A Resolving vertically for B

a) The acceleration of the system 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎

Resolve Resolve
b) The velocity at which B hits the ground horizontally vertically
𝑇 − 0.08𝑔 = 0.4𝑎 0.8𝑔 − 𝑇 = 0.8𝑎
c) The total distance travelled by A
before it comes to rest
Add the two
d) The force the string exerts on the equations together 𝑇 − 0.08𝑔 = 0.4𝑎
pulley  The T‟s cancel out 0.8𝑔 − 𝑇 = 0.8𝑎

0.72𝑔 = 1.2𝑎
Isam Al Hassan 0796988794 Divide by 1.2
0.6𝑔 = 𝑎 3F
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line0.4g Draw a diagram and
label all the forces

You can solve problems involving connected T T

particles by considering the particles
separately 0.08g A

Two particles A and B of masses 0.4kg and T

0.8kg respectively are connected by a light 0.4g
inextensible string. Particle A lies on a T
rough horizontal table 4.5m from a small 0.6g
smooth fixed pulley which is attached to 0.6g
the end of the table. The string passes over  We can use SUVAT to calculate the velocity B
the pulley and B hangs freely, with the of B as it hits the ground
string taut, 0.5m above the ground. The
coefficient of friction between A and the 𝑠 = 0.5 𝑢 = 0 𝑣 =? 𝑎 = 0.6𝑔 𝑡 =? 0.5m
table is 0.2. The system is released from 0.8g
rest. Find:
𝑣 2 = 𝑢2 + 2𝑎𝑠
Sub in values
a) The acceleration of the system – 0.6g 2 2
𝑣 = (0) +2(0.6𝑔)(0.5)
b) The velocity at which B hits the ground Calculate
c) The total distance travelled by A 𝑣 2 = 0.6𝑔
Square
before it comes to rest −1 root
d) The force the string exerts on the 𝑣 = 2.42𝑚𝑠
pulley

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3F
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line0.4g Draw a diagram and
label all the forces

You can solve problems involving connected T T

particles by considering the particles
separately 0.08g A

Two particles A and B of masses 0.4kg and T

0.8kg respectively are connected by a light 0.4g
inextensible string. Particle A lies on a T
rough horizontal table 4.5m from a small 0.6g
0.2g
smooth fixed pulley which is attached to 0.6g
the end of the table. The string passes over Particle A will travel 0.5m by the time B B
the pulley and B hangs freely, with the hits the floor
string taut, 0.5m above the ground. The
coefficient of friction between A and the When B hits the floor, A will be moving at 0.5m
table is 0.2. The system is released from speed (the same as B as it hit the floor…) and 0.8g
rest. Find: will decelerate due to the frictional force…
 We need to know the deceleration of a…

a) The acceleration of the system – 0.6g 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎 Resolve

b) The velocity at which B hits the ground horizontally for A
– 2.42ms-1 𝑇 − 0.08𝑔 = (0.4 × 𝑎)
T = 0 now as the
c) The total distance travelled by A string will be slack
before it comes to rest 0 − 0.08𝑔 = 0.4𝑎
Divide by 0.4
d) The force the string exerts on the
pulley −0.2𝑔 = 𝑎

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3F
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line0.4g Draw a diagram and
label all the forces

You can solve problems involving connected T T

particles by considering the particles
separately 0.08g A

Two particles A and B of masses 0.4kg and T

0.8kg respectively are connected by a light 0.4g
inextensible string. Particle A lies on a T
rough horizontal table 4.5m from a small 0.2g
smooth fixed pulley which is attached to 0.6g
the end of the table. The string passes over Now we can use SUVAT again to find the B
the pulley and B hangs freely, with the distance A travels before coming to rest…
string taut, 0.5m above the ground. The
coefficient of friction between A and the 𝑠 =? 𝑢 = 2.42 𝑣 = 0 𝑎 = −0.2𝑔 𝑡 =? 0.5m
table is 0.2. The system is released from 0.8g
rest. Find: 𝑣 2 = 𝑢2 + 2𝑎𝑠
Sub in values (remember the
initial velocity of A)
a) The acceleration of the system – 0.6g 02 = 2.422 + 2(−0.2𝑔)(𝑠)
b) The velocity at which B hits the ground Calculate
– 2.42ms-1 0 = 5.88 − 3.92𝑠
Rearrange to
c) The total distance travelled by A 𝑠 = 1.5𝑚
find s
before it comes to rest Remember to add on the 0.5m A
d) The force the string exerts on the has already travelled!
𝑠 = 2𝑚
pulley
Isam Al Hassan 0796988794
3F
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line0.4g Draw a diagram and
label all the forces
You can solve problems involving connected T 3.136N
T
particles by considering the particles
separately 0.08g A

Two particles A and B of masses 0.4kg and 3.136N

T
0.8kg respectively are connected by a light 0.4g
inextensible string. Particle A lies on a T
rough horizontal table 4.5m from a small 0.6g
smooth fixed pulley which is attached to 0.6g
the end of the table. The string passes over The two tensions are the forces acting on the
pulley
B
the pulley and B hangs freely, with the
 We first need to know the value of T, and we
string taut, 0.5m above the ground. The
can use an equation from earlier to find it…
coefficient of friction between A and the 0.5m
table is 0.2. The system is released from 0.8g
rest. Find:
𝑇 − 0.08𝑔 = 0.4𝑎 We worked out acceleration
a) The acceleration of the system – 0.6g earlier
𝑇 − 0.08𝑔 = 0.4(0.6g)
b) The velocity at which B hits the ground Calculate T
– 2.42ms-1 𝑇 = 3.136
c) The total distance travelled by A
before it comes to rest – 2m
d) The force the string exerts on the
pulley
Isam Al Hassan 0796988794
3F
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line0.4g Draw a diagram and
label all the forces
You can solve problems involving connected T 3.136N
particles by considering the particles
separately 0.08g A

Two particles A and B of masses 0.4kg and 3.136N

0.8kg respectively are connected by a light 0.4g
inextensible string. Particle A lies on a T
rough horizontal table 4.5m from a small 0.6g
smooth fixed pulley which is attached to 0.6g
the end of the table. The string passes over The overall force on the pulley is the resultant
of the two tensions
B
the pulley and B hangs freely, with the
 Since they are acting at 90° to each other,
string taut, 0.5m above the ground. The
the resultant will be at a 45° angle between
coefficient of friction between A and the 0.5m
them (effectively an angle bisector) 0.8g
table is 0.2. The system is released from
rest. Find:
3.136N
a) The acceleration of the system – 0.6g 45° 𝐴𝑑𝑗
b) The velocity at which B hits the ground 𝐻𝑦𝑝 =
Hyp 45° 3.136N 𝐶𝑜𝑠𝜃
– 2.42ms-1 Sub in values
c) The total distance travelled by A Adj 3.136
𝐻𝑦𝑝 = This will be the
before it comes to rest – 2m 𝐶𝑜𝑠45 force from one
d) The force the string exerts on the F Opp part of the
pulley 𝐻𝑦𝑝 = 4.43𝑁 string
Draw a diagram and show the resultant
force
Isam Al Hassan 0796988794
 Then you use GCSE Trig or Pythagoras! 3F
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line 5gCos25
R a
T
Draw a diagram
 Remember to split the
You can solve problems involving connected forces into parallel and P
particles by considering the particles perpendicular (where
separately appropriate!) T
F
5gCos25
Two particles, P and Q, of masses 5kg and 25˚
10kg are connected by a light inextensible 5g Q a
string. The string passes over a small
smooth pulley which is fixed at the top of a
25˚ 5gSin25
plane inclined at an angle of 25° to the 10g
horizontal. P is resting on the plane and Q
hangs freely with the string vertical and We will need to form 2 equations, one for each particle
taut. The coefficient of friction between P  For particle P, we need to calculate the frictional
and the plane is 0.2. force first
 Resolve perpendicular to find the normal reaction
a) Find the acceleration of the system
𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎 Resolve
perpendicular for P
b) Find the tension in the string 𝑅 − 5𝑔𝐶𝑜𝑠25 = (5 × 0)
Rearrange
𝑅 = 5𝑔𝐶𝑜𝑠25

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3F
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line 5gCos25 a
T
Draw a diagram
 Remember to split the
You can solve problems involving connected forces into parallel and P
particles by considering the particles perpendicular (where
separately appropriate!) T
F
gCos25
5gCos25
Two particles, P and Q, of masses 5kg and 25˚
10kg are connected by a light inextensible 5g Q a
string. The string passes over a small
smooth pulley which is fixed at the top of a
25˚ 5gSin25
plane inclined at an angle of 25° to the 10g
horizontal. P is resting on the plane and Q
hangs freely with the string vertical and
taut. The coefficient of friction between P 𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = 𝜇𝑅
Sub in values for particle P
and the plane is 0.2.
𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = (0.2 × 5𝑔𝐶𝑜𝑠25)
Calculate
a) Find the acceleration of the system 𝐹𝑀𝐴𝑋 = 𝑔𝐶𝑜𝑠25

b) Find the tension in the string

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3F
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line 5gCos25 a
T
Draw a diagram
 Remember to split the
You can solve problems involving connected forces into parallel and P
particles by considering the particles perpendicular (where
separately appropriate!) T
gCos25
5gCos25
Two particles, P and Q, of masses 5kg and 25˚
10kg are connected by a light inextensible 5g Q a
string. The string passes over a small
smooth pulley which is fixed at the top of a
25˚ 5gSin25
plane inclined at an angle of 25° to the 10g
horizontal. P is resting on the plane and Q
hangs freely with the string vertical and Now we can form 2 equations using P and Q
taut. The coefficient of friction between P
and the plane is 0.2. Equation for P Equation for Q
 Resolve Parallel  Resolve Vertically
Resolve
a) Find the acceleration of the system 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎 Resolve
Parallel for P
Vertically
for Q
𝑇 − 𝑔𝐶𝑜𝑠25 − 5𝑔𝑆𝑖𝑛25 = 5𝑎 10𝑔 − 𝑇 = 10𝑎
b) Find the tension in the string
𝑇 − 𝑔𝐶𝑜𝑠25 − 5𝑔𝑆𝑖𝑛25 = 5𝑎
Add the equations together
10𝑔 − 𝑇 = 10𝑎  The T‟s cancel out!

10𝑔 − 𝑔𝐶𝑜𝑠25 − 5𝑔𝑆𝑖𝑛25 = 15𝑎

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794 Solve for a
4.56 = 𝑎 3F
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line 5gCos25 a
T
Draw a diagram
 Remember to split the
You can solve problems involving connected forces into parallel and P
particles by considering the particles perpendicular (where
separately appropriate!) T
gCos25
5gCos25
Two particles, P and Q, of masses 5kg and 25˚
10kg are connected by a light inextensible 5g Q a
string. The string passes over a small
smooth pulley which is fixed at the top of a
25˚ 5gSin25
plane inclined at an angle of 25° to the 10g
horizontal. P is resting on the plane and Q
hangs freely with the string vertical and Use one of the previous equations to find the tension
taut. The coefficient of friction between P
and the plane is 0.2. 10𝑔 − 𝑇 = 10𝑎 We now know
the acceleration
10𝑔 − 𝑇 = 10(4.56)
a) Find the acceleration of the system – Solve for T
4.56ms-2 𝑇 = 52.4𝑁

b) Find the tension in the string

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3F
Isam Al Hassan 0796988794
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
You can calculate the momentum of Find the magnitude of the momentum of:
a particle and the impulse of a force
a) A cricket ball of mass 400g moving at 18ms-1
The momentum of a body of mass m
which is moving with velocity v is given 𝑀𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑢𝑚 = 𝑚𝑣 Sub in units (remember
by mv to use kg)
𝑀𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑢𝑚 = 0.4 × 18
Calculate
𝑀𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑢𝑚 = 7.2𝑁𝑠
If the mass is in kg and the velocity is
in ms-1 then the momentum will be in
kgms-1
b) A lorry of mass 5 tonnes moving at 12ms-1

kgms-1 can be written as (kgms-2)s 𝑀𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑢𝑚 = 𝑚𝑣 Sub in units (remember

to use kg)
𝑀𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑢𝑚 = 5000 × 12
As kgms-2 is Newtons… −1
Calculate
𝑀𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑢𝑚 = 60,000𝑘𝑔𝑚𝑠
kgms-1 can be written as Ns

These are both acceptable units for Either Ns or kgms-1 are acceptable units (make
momentum sure you read the question in case you‟re asked
for one specifically!)

Isam Al Hassan 0796988794

3G
𝑀𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑢𝑚 = 𝑚𝑣

Dynamics of a Particle moving in a

Straight Line
You can calculate the momentum of Remember that the acceleration of an object is given by:
a particle and the impulse of a force
𝑣−𝑢
𝑎=
𝑡
If a constant force F acts for time t
we define the impulse of the force to
be Ft 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎 Replace
acceleration
𝑣−𝑢 with the above
If force is measured in N and time in 𝐹=𝑚
𝑡
seconds, then the units of impulse are Multiply by t
Ns 𝐹𝑡 = 𝑚 𝑣 − 𝑢
Multiply the
bracket out
An example of impulse would be a 𝐹𝑡 = 𝑚𝑣 − 𝑚𝑢
Force x time =
cricket bat hitting a ball Impulse!
 In this case, the time the force is 𝐼 = 𝑚𝑣 − 𝑚𝑢
exerted over is small, but if the force
is big enough it will transfer noticeable So Impulse = Final momentum – Initial momentum
impulse to the ball
So Impulse = Change in momentum

This is the Impulse-Momentum Principle!

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𝑀𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑢𝑚 = 𝑚𝑣 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒 = 𝑚𝑣 − 𝑚𝑢

Dynamics of a Particle moving in a 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒 = 𝐹𝑡

Straight Line
You can calculate the momentum of
a particle and the impulse of a force a) 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒 = 𝐹𝑡
Sub in values
𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒 = 6 × 4.5
A body of mass 2kg is initially at rest Calculate
on a smooth horizontal plane. A
horizontal force of magnitude 4.5N 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒 = 27𝑁𝑠
acts on the body for 6s. Find:

a) The magnitude of the impulse b) 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒 = 𝑚𝑣 − 𝑚𝑢 Sub in impulse, the

given to the body by the force mass and the initial
velocity
27Ns 27 = (2 × 𝑣) − (2 × 0)
b) The final speed of the body Calculate

13.5ms-1 13.5 = 𝑣

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𝑀𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑢𝑚 = 𝑚𝑣 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒 = 𝑚𝑣 − 𝑚𝑢

Dynamics of a Particle moving in a 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒 = 𝐹𝑡

Straight Line
You can calculate the momentum of 3.5ms-1
a particle and the impulse of a force As always, draw a diagram!
I
0.2kg
A ball of mass 0.2kg hits a vertical wall
at right angles with a speed of 3.5ms-1.
The ball rebounds from the wall with 2.5ms-1
speed 2.5ms-1. Find the magnitude of
the impulse the ball exerts on the wall.

𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒 = 𝑚𝑣 − 𝑚𝑢 Sub in values, remembering

The wall does not move and as such you
the final velocity is in the
cannot apply the Impulse-momentum opposite direction
principle to it. 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒 = (0.2 × −2.5) − (0.2 × 3.5)
Careful with negatives!
𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒 = −0.5 − 0.7
 You can however apply the principle Calculate
to the ball and use Newton‟s third law
𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒 = −1.2𝑁𝑠
to deduce that the Impulse from the The Impulse will be
wall must be equal and opposite… 1.2Ns in either
𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒 = 1.2𝑁𝑠 direction

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𝑀𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑢𝑚 = 𝑚𝑣 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒 = 𝑚𝑣 − 𝑚𝑢

Dynamics of a Particle moving in a 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒 = 𝐹𝑡

Straight Line
You can solve problems involving Total momentum before impact = Total momentum after impact
collisions using the principle of u1 u2
Conservation of Momentum Before collision

I m1 m2 I
By Newton‟s third law, when two
bodies collide they exert equal and After collision
v1 v2
opposite forces on each other.

The objects will also be in contact for

the same length of time, so the 𝑚1 𝑢1 + 𝑚2 𝑢2 = 𝑚1 𝑣1 + 𝑚2 𝑣2
impulse exerted by each will be equal
Total Total
but opposite in direction momentum of momentum of
the two the two
Therefore, these changes in particles particles after
before impact impact
momentum cancel each other out, and
the overall momentum is unchanged
When solving problems involving this principle:
a) Draw a diagram and label velocities before and after impact
This is the principle of Conservation
with their relevant directions
of Momentum b) Draw impulses on where necessary
c) Choose a positive direction and apply the rules you know

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3H
𝑀𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑢𝑚 = 𝑚𝑣 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒 = 𝑚𝑣 − 𝑚𝑢

Dynamics of a Particle moving in a 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒 = 𝐹𝑡

𝑚1 𝑢1 + 𝑚2 𝑢2 =𝑚 𝑣 +𝑚 𝑣
1 1
Straight Line
2 2

You can solve problems involving 3ms-1 0ms-1

Before collision
collisions using the principle of P Q
Conservation of Momentum I 2kg 3kg I

A particle of mass 2kg is moving with After collision

v ms-1 21/3ms-1
speed 3ms-1 on a smooth horizontal
plane. Particle Q of mass 3kg is at
We aren‟t sure which direction P goes after the collision – just
rest on the plane. Particle P collides
choose one for now…
with Q and after the collision Q  If the answer is negative, the direction is the other way!
moves away with a speed of 21/3ms-1.
Find:
𝑚1 𝑢1 + 𝑚2 𝑢2 = 𝑚1 𝑣1 + 𝑚2 𝑣2
Sub in the values
a) The speed and direction of the from the diagram
(2 × 3) + (3 × 0) = (2 × 𝑣) + (3 × 2 1 3)
motion of P after the collision
Work out each side
0.5ms-1 in the opposite direction 6 = 2𝑣 + 7
b) The magnitude of the impulse Calculate v
received by P and by Q in the −0.5 = 𝑣
collision

So the direction of motion of P is

reversed by the collision and it moves
off at 0.5ms-1
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𝑀𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑢𝑚 = 𝑚𝑣 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒 = 𝑚𝑣 − 𝑚𝑢

Dynamics of a Particle moving in a 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒 = 𝐹𝑡

𝑚1 𝑢1 + 𝑚2 𝑢2 =𝑚 𝑣 +𝑚 𝑣
1 1
Straight Line
2 2

You can solve problems involving 3ms-1 0ms-1

Before collision
collisions using the principle of P Q
Conservation of Momentum I 2kg 3kg I

A particle of mass 2kg is moving with After collision

0.5ms-1 21/3ms-1
speed 3ms-1 on a smooth horizontal
plane. Particle Q of mass 3kg is at
rest on the plane. Particle P collides Impulse on P
with Q and after the collision Q
moves away with a speed of 21/3ms-1. 𝐼 = 𝑚𝑣 − 𝑚𝑢
Take the direction of impulse
Find: on P as the positive direction
𝐼 = (2 × 0.5) − (2 × −3)
Work out the brackets
a) The speed and direction of the 𝐼 = 1 − −6
motion of P after the collision Calculate
𝐼 = 7𝑁𝑠
0.5ms-1 in the opposite direction You can see the impulse
received by each is equal
b) The magnitude of the impulse and opposite!
received by P and by Q in the Impulse on Q
collision
𝐼 = 𝑚𝑣 − 𝑚𝑢 Take the direction of impulse
on Q as the positive direction
𝐼 = (3 × 2 1 3) − (3 × 0)
Calculate
𝐼 = 7𝑁𝑠
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𝑀𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑢𝑚 = 𝑚𝑣 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒 = 𝑚𝑣 − 𝑚𝑢

Dynamics of a Particle moving in a 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒 = 𝐹𝑡

𝑚1 𝑢1 + 𝑚2 𝑢2 =𝑚 𝑣 +𝑚 𝑣
1 1
Straight Line
2 2

You can solve problems involving 0ms-1 4ms-1 The particles do

Before motion
collisions using the principle of not collide – in this
B I I A case the impulse is
Conservation of Momentum
2kg 8kg transmitted
through the
Two particles, A and B, of masses 8kg After motion string…
v ms-1 v ms-1
and 2kg respectively, are connected
by a light inextensible string. The
particles are at rest on a smooth When the string is taut, the particles will move together and
horizontal plane with the string slack. hence have the same final velocity
Particle P is projected directly away
from Q with speed 4ms-1. 𝑚1 𝑢1 + 𝑚2 𝑢2 = 𝑚1 𝑣1 + 𝑚2 𝑣2
Sub in values from the
diagram, leaving v in both
a) Find the speed of the particles (2 × 0) + (8 × 4) = (2 × 𝑣) + (8 × 𝑣) cases

when the string goes taut Work out brackets

v = 3.2ms-1 32 = 10𝑣
Divide by 10
b) Find the magnitude of the impulse 3.2 = 𝑣
transmitted through the string
when it goes taut

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𝑀𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑢𝑚 = 𝑚𝑣 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒 = 𝑚𝑣 − 𝑚𝑢

Dynamics of a Particle moving in a 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒 = 𝐹𝑡

𝑚1 𝑢1 + 𝑚2 𝑢2 =𝑚 𝑣 +𝑚 𝑣
1 1
Straight Line
2 2

You can solve problems involving 0ms-1 4ms-1 The particles do

Before motion
collisions using the principle of not collide – in this
B I I A case the impulse is
Conservation of Momentum
2kg 8kg transmitted
through the
Two particles, A and B, of masses 8kg After motion string…
3.2ms-1 3.2ms-1
and 2kg respectively, are connected
by a light inextensible string. The
particles are at rest on a smooth Calculating the impulse for B
horizontal plane with the string slack.
Particle P is projected directly away 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒 = 𝑚𝑣 − 𝑚𝑢 Sub in values for particle
from Q with speed 4ms-1. B, taking the impulse from
it as the positive direction
𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒 = 2 × 3.2 − (2 × 0)
Calculate
a) Find the speed of the particles
when the string goes taut 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒 = 6.4𝑁𝑠
v = 3.2ms-1
b) Find the magnitude of the impulse
transmitted through the string
when it goes taut This is all we need to do. The
I = 6.4Ns impulse in the opposite direction
will be the same!

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3H
𝑀𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑢𝑚 = 𝑚𝑣 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒 = 𝑚𝑣 − 𝑚𝑢

Dynamics of a Particle moving in a 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒 = 𝐹𝑡

𝑚1 𝑢1 + 𝑚2 𝑢2 =𝑚 𝑣 +𝑚 𝑣
1 1
Straight Line
2 2 If you do not know a
velocity‟s direction, set it
the same as the direction
of the impulse (this will
You can solve problems involving 3ms-1 2ms-1 keep it positive while you
Before collision
collisions using the principle of work it out!)
P Q
Conservation of Momentum I 2kg 4kg I

Two particles, P and Q of mass 2kg After collision

v0.5ms
1 ms
-1-1 0.25ms
v2 ms-1-1
and 4kg respectively are moving
towards each other along the same For particle P
straight line on a smooth horizontal
plane. The particles collide. Before 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒 = 𝑚𝑣 − 𝑚𝑢 Sub in values from the diagram, using
the collision, the speeds of P and Q impulse as the positive direction
are 3ms-1 and 2ms-1. Given that the 7 = (2 × 𝑣1 ) − (2 × −3)
Work out
As this answer is
magnitude of the impulse due to the 7 = 2𝑣1 + 6
brackets
positive, it means the
collision is 7Ns, find: Calculate direction we put on the
0.5 = 𝑣1 diagram is correct!

a) The speed and direction of P

after the collision For particle Q

𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒 = 𝑚𝑣 − 𝑚𝑢 Sub in values from the diagram, using

b) The speed and direction of Q impulse as the positive direction
after the collision 7 = (4 × 𝑣2 ) − (4 × −2)
Work out As this answer is
brackets negative, it means the
7 = 4𝑣2 + 8 direction we put on the
Calculate diagram is incorrect!
−0.25
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 Summary
• You have learnt a huge amount about
forces in this chapter

• It is very important that you practice

questions like these – it is very easy to
forget some of the forces involved in more
complicated questions

• Remember that the key to most questions

is the correct use of F = ma!

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