Dynamics of a Particle

moving in a Straight Line

 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

Teachings for Exercise 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
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
surface which an object is
Newton’s second law of motion resting on
“The force needed to accelerate a particle is
equal to the product of the mass of the object It is equal and opposite to
and the acceleration required” the force exerted on the
mg (mass surface by the object,
x gravity) which is determined largely
F = ma by gravity and the mass of
the object

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

The table matches the force from the brick,

“The force that will cause a mass of 1kg to which is why the brick remains still on the
accelerate at 1ms-2” table (there of course would be a maximum
possible weight the table could take, but we
will not worry about this for now!

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
Force motion
Before we start looking at question we need to
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 The frictional force opposes
equal to the product of the mass of the object motion between two ‘rough’
and the acceleration required” surfaces

Although it is a force, friction does not

F = ma cause movement in its own direction. It
just reduces the effect of another
Force is measured in Newtons (N). A Newton is: force

Surfaces will have a maximum level of

“The force that will cause a mass of 1kg to friction where it is unable to completely
accelerate at 1ms-2” prevent movement

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
string
Before we start looking at question we need to
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 If an object is being pulled
equal to the product of the mass of the object along (for example by a string),
and the acceleration required” 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”

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
Thrust
Before we start looking at question we need to
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 If an object is being pushed along (for
equal to the product of the mass of the object example by a rod), then the force acting on
and the acceleration required” 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”

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

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

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

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

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…
Newton’s second law of motion
“The force needed to accelerate a particle is
equal to the product of the mass of the object
and the acceleration required”
You need to understand all the forces at work in
various situations…
Resolving
When there are multiple forces acting on an
object, we ‘resolve’ these forces in different
directions
 One direction will usually be the direction of
acceleration
 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”

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

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=117.6
  𝑁 As the acceleration was given to
2sf, you should give you answer
to the same accuracy
𝐹=120
  𝑁
 Ensure you use the exact
amount in any subsequent
calculations though!

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=1.5
  𝑎 Divide by 1.5

4=𝑎
 

𝑎=4
  𝑚 𝑠− 2

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

2ms-2
𝐹=𝑚𝑎
  Sub in values. You must subtract any
forces acting in the opposite direction!
𝑋
  − 4=(2 ×2)
Y Calculate
𝑋
  − 4=4
Add 4
𝑋  =8 𝑁
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  −2 𝑔=(2 ×0)
Calculate
𝑌  −2 𝑔=0
Add 2g
𝑌  =2 𝑔 (19.6 𝑁 ) 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

2ms-2
𝐹=𝑚𝑎
  Sub in values. You must subtract any
forces acting in the opposite direction!
80
  − 𝑋 =(4 ×2)
Y Calculate

20N
80
  − 𝑋 =8 Add X and
Subtract 8
72
  𝑁=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 − 4 𝑔=(4 ×0)
Calculate
𝑌  −20 − 4 𝑔=0
Add 20, add 4g
𝑌  =20+4 𝑔 (59.2 𝑁 ) 3A
Teachings for Exercise 3B
 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
c) The magnitude of the normal reaction Calculate a
between the particle and the table
𝑎=3.2
  𝑚 𝑠− 2

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 2
the first 4 seconds 𝑠=𝑢𝑡 + 𝑎𝑡
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=25.6
  𝑚

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

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
as positive
𝑇  −0.5 𝑔=(0.5× 2)
b) Moving downwards with a Calculate T
deceleration of 4ms-2 𝑇  =1+0.5 𝑔
𝑇  =5.9 𝑁

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
positive
0.5
  𝑔 − 𝑇 =(0.5× −4 )
b) Moving downwards with a Calculate T
deceleration of 4ms-2 𝑇  =2+0.5 𝑔
𝑇  =6.9 𝑁
Even though the pebble is moving
downwards, there is more tension in the
string as the pebble is decelerating – the
string is working against gravity!
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

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+ 2 𝑎𝑠
Sub in values
2 2
0  =10 +2 (− 2)𝑠
Work through
to calculate s
0=100−
  4𝑠
𝑠=25
  𝑚

3B
Teachings for Exercise 3C
 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!

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

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!)

3C
Teachings for Exercise 3D
 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:

𝐹
  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =𝜇 𝑅 𝜇=𝑐𝑜𝑒𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑡
  𝑜𝑓 𝐹𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛
𝑅=𝑡h𝑒
  𝑛𝑜𝑟𝑚𝑎𝑙 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛
If a surface is described as ‘smooth’, the
implication is that the coefficient of friction is 0.

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.

𝐹
  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =𝜇 𝑅 𝜇=𝑐𝑜𝑒𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑡
  𝑜𝑓 𝐹𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛
𝑅=𝑡h𝑒
  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
between the block and the ground is 0.4. A
𝐹=𝑚𝑎
 
Resolve vertically
horizontal force, P, is applied to the block. Find   )
the magnitude of the frictional force acting on Calculate R
the block and its acceleration when: 𝑅=5
  𝑔 (49 𝑁 )
Now we can calculate the maximum possible frictional force
a) P = 10N
b) P = 19.6N 𝐹  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =𝜇 𝑅
Sub in values
c) P = 30N
𝐹  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =(0.4 × 49)
Calculate FMAX
𝐹  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =19.6 𝑁
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 𝐹  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =19.6 𝑁
force using the coefficient of friction

Friction is a force which opposes movement 10N

F 5kg 10N
between two ‘rough’ surfaces.

𝐹
  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =𝜇 𝑅 𝜇=𝑐𝑜𝑒𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑡
  𝑜𝑓 𝐹𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛
𝑅=𝑡h𝑒
  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

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 𝐹  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =19.6 𝑁
force using the coefficient of friction

Friction is a force which opposes movement 19.6N

F 5kg 19.6N
between two ‘rough’ surfaces.

𝐹
  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =𝜇 𝑅 𝜇=𝑐𝑜𝑒𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑡
  𝑜𝑓 𝐹𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛
𝑅=𝑡h𝑒
  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

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 𝐹  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =19.6 𝑁
force using the coefficient of friction

Friction is a force which opposes movement 19.6N

F 5kg 30N
between two ‘rough’ surfaces.

𝐹
  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =𝜇 𝑅 𝜇=𝑐𝑜𝑒𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑡
  𝑜𝑓 𝐹𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛
𝑅=𝑡h𝑒
  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=5
  𝑎
Divide by 5
2.08=𝑎
 
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

𝐹
  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =𝜇 𝑅 𝜇=𝑐𝑜𝑒𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑡
  𝑜𝑓 𝐹𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛
Resolve vertically to find the normal reaction
𝑅=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
  −5 𝑔=(5 ×0)
Calculate the value of P required to cause the box Calculate
to accelerate if: 𝑅=49 𝑁
 
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 𝐹
  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =𝜇 𝑅
Sub in values
𝐹
  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =(0.5 ×49)
Calculate
𝐹  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =24.5 𝑁
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 F 5kg
θ
Pcosθ
0.8P
Friction is a force which opposes movement
between two ‘rough’ surfaces. 5g N

𝐹
  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =𝜇 𝑅 𝜇=𝑐𝑜𝑒𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑡
  𝑜𝑓 𝐹𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 We need to find the values of Cosθ and Sinθ. The
𝑅=𝑡h𝑒
  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
the floor is 0.5. A force P is applied to the box. O A O Tanθ = 3/4
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
a) P is applied horizontally – 24.5N We can find the 5
hypotenuse using 3 Opp
b) P is applied at an angle of θ above the
Pythagoras’
horizontal, where tanθ = 3/4 θ
Theorem!
4
Adj
Sinθ = 3/5 Cosθ = 4/5
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 F 5kg
θ
0.8P
Friction is a force which opposes movement
between two ‘rough’ surfaces. 5g N

𝐹
  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =𝜇 𝑅 𝜇=𝑐𝑜𝑒𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑡
  𝑜𝑓 𝐹𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 Resolve vertically to find the normal reaction
𝑅=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+0.6
  𝑃 −5 𝑔=(5 × 0) We find the normal
Calculate the value of P required to cause the box reaction in terms of P
to accelerate if: 𝑅=49
  − 0.6 𝑃
Now find the maximum frictional force
a) P is applied horizontally – 24.5N
b) P is applied at an angle of θ above the 𝐹
  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =𝜇 𝑅
horizontal, where tanθ = 3/4 Sub in
values
𝐹  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =0.5 (49 −0.6 𝑃)
Find Fmax in
𝐹  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =24.5 − 0.3 𝑃 terms of P

So, 0.8P will have to exceed this if the box is to

move… 3D
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line Draw a diagram
𝐹  =24.5 − 0.3 𝑃 𝑀𝐴𝑋
R P
You can calculate the magnitude of a frictional 0.6P
force using the coefficient of friction 24.5 – 0.3P
F 5kg
θ
0.8P
Friction is a force which opposes movement
between two ‘rough’ surfaces. 5g N

𝐹
  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =𝜇 𝑅 𝜇=𝑐𝑜𝑒𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑡
  𝑜𝑓 𝐹𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 We need to find the value for P for which the
𝑅=𝑡h𝑒
  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
0.8
  𝑃 −(24.5 − 0.3 𝑃)=(5 ×0) Careful with the
a) P is applied horizontally – 24.5N bracket!
0.8
  𝑃 −24.5+0.3 𝑃=0 Rearrange and solve
b) P is applied at an angle of θ above the
horizontal, where tanθ = 3/4 1.1
  𝑃=24.5
𝑃=22
  𝑁 (2 𝑠𝑓 )
P must exceed 22N, which is less than when P was horizontal
 The reason is because some of the force is upwards, this
alleviates some of the friction between the surfaces…
3D
Teachings for Exercise 3E
 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 g
3k
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…
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 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 g
considering forces parallel and 2k
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
2  𝑔𝑆𝑖𝑛 20 −2=(2 ×𝑎)
Work out some parts (to keep
accuracy)
1  9.6 𝑆𝑖𝑛 20− 2=2𝑎
Round to 2sf as gravity is given
to this degree of accuracy
2.4=𝑎
  (2 𝑠𝑓 )
3E
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line R
2N
You can extend this process to
particles on an inclined plane, by g
considering forces parallel and 2k
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+ 2 𝑎𝑠
b) If the box starts 10m up the plane, Sub in values
2 2
calculate the velocity of the box at 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
−1
𝑣  =6.6 𝑚 𝑠 (2 𝑠𝑓 )

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 g
mk
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

on tanθ = 0.75) by drawing a right
𝐹=𝑚𝑎
  Resolve perpendicular
to the plane
angled triangle and finding the 𝑅
  −𝑚𝑔𝐶𝑜𝑠 θ=(𝑚 ×0)
hypotenuse (as in section 3D) We have to use ‘m’ for now as we
do not know the mass…
𝑅=𝑚𝑔𝐶𝑜𝑠θ
 
We know the value of Cosθ
Tanθ = 3/4
Sinθ = 3/5 (0.6)
𝑅=0.8
  𝑚𝑔
Cosθ = 4/5 (0.8)

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 g
mk
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. 𝐹
  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =𝜇 𝑅
Sub in values
You can find the below values (based 𝐹
  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =(0.5 ×0.8 𝑚𝑔)
on tanθ = 0.75) by drawing a right Calculate
angled triangle and finding the
𝐹
  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =0.4 𝑚𝑔
hypotenuse (as in section 3D)

Tanθ = 3/4
Sinθ = 3/5 (0.6)
Cosθ = 4/5 (0.8)

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 g
mk
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) 𝑚𝑔𝑆𝑖𝑛
  θ −0.4 𝑚𝑔=𝑚𝑎 The m’s cancel (meaning the mass
does not affect the acceleration!)
Tanθ = 3/4
𝑔𝑆𝑖𝑛θ
  −0.4 𝑔=𝑎
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
2.0
  𝑚 𝑠 =𝑎(2 𝑠𝑓 )
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 g
25N 4k
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
Resolve perpendicular to the plane…
should proceed as if you did have
the coefficient of friction. You 𝐹=𝑚𝑎
  Sub in values and resolve
will end up with an equation where perpendicular
you can solve for µ. 𝑅  −25 𝑆𝑖𝑛10 − 4 𝑔𝐶𝑜𝑠 10=(4 × 0)
Rearrange
𝑅=25𝑆𝑖𝑛
  10+4 𝑔𝐶𝑜𝑠 10
Calculate
𝑅=43
  𝑁 (2 𝑠𝑓 )

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 g
25N 4k
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…

𝐹  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =𝜇 𝑅 Sub in values (remember to use exact

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

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 g
25N 4k
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 𝐹=𝑚𝑎
  Sub in values and resolve
the coefficient of friction. You parallel
will end up with an equation where
25
  𝐶𝑜𝑠 10− 43 𝜇 −4 𝑔𝑆𝑖𝑛 10=(4 × 2.5)
Rearrange to find µ
you can solve for µ. 25 𝐶𝑜𝑠 10− 4 𝑔𝑆𝑖𝑛10 −(4× 2.5)=43 𝜇
 
Solve exactly
7.8131
  …=43 𝜇 Remember to use
exact values!!
0.18=𝜇
 

3E
Teachings for Exercise 3F
 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 same 3g 5g

straight line, you can treat the whole system as The only force acting vertically is the weight, so the normal
a single particle reaction for each particle will be equal to this…
We can now work out the maximum friction for each particle…
Two particles, P and Q, of masses 5kg and 3kg
respectively, are connected by a light 𝐹  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =𝜇 𝑅
inextensible string. Particle P is pulled along by a Sub in values for particle P
horizontal force of magnitude 40N along a rough 𝐹  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =(0.2× 5 𝑔)
horizontal plane. The coefficient of friction Calculate (in terms of g)
between the blocks and the plane is 0.2. 𝐹  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =𝑔 𝑁
a) Find the acceleration of each particle
b) Find the tension in the string
𝐹  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =𝜇 𝑅
Sub in values for particle Q
c) Explain how the assumption that the string is 𝐹  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =(0.2× 3 𝑔)
light and inextensible has been used in the Calculate (in terms of g)
question 𝐹  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =0.6 𝑔 𝑁
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 same 3g 5g

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.
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 − 0.6 𝑔=(8 ×𝑎)
Calculate

a) Find the acceleration of each particle

24.32=8
  𝑎
Divide by 8
b) Find the tension in the string 3.04=𝑎
 
c) Explain how the assumption that the string is
light and inextensible has been used in the As the particles are connected, they will both accelerate
question 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 same 3g 5g

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 inextensible 𝐹=𝑚𝑎
  Resolve parallel to the
plane. Only particle P
string. Particle P is pulled along by a horizontal
force of magnitude 40N along a rough horizontal 40
  − 𝑔 −𝑇 =(5 ×3.04) should be considered
plane. The coefficient of friction between the Rearrange for T
blocks and the plane is 0.2. 40
  − 𝑔 −(5 ×3.04)=𝑇
Calculate
a) Find the acceleration of each particle – 15=𝑇
 
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

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 same 3g 5g

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 inextensible 𝐹=𝑚𝑎
  Resolve parallel to the plane.
Only particle Q should be
string. Particle P is pulled along by a horizontal
force of magnitude 40N along a rough horizontal 𝑇  −0.6 𝑔=(3× 3.04) considered
plane. The coefficient of friction between the Rearrange for T
blocks and the plane is 0.2. 𝑇  =( 3 ×3.04 )+0.6 𝑔
Calculate
a) Find the acceleration of each particle –
𝑇  =15
3.04ms-2
b) Find the tension in the string – 15N So it does not matter which particle we choose –
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

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 same 3g 5g

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
Light – the string has no mass and the tension will be
respectively, are connected by a light inextensible
consistent
string. Particle P is pulled along by a horizontal
force of magnitude 40N along a rough horizontal Inextensible – Acceleration is the same across both masses
plane. The coefficient of 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

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
a) Find the Tension in the string 𝑇  −0.4 𝑔 − 0.6 𝑔=(1× 0.5)
Rearrange to find T
b) Find the force exerted on mass B by 𝑇  =( 1 ×0.5 ) +1 𝑔
mass A Calculate
c) Find the force exerted on mass B by 𝑇  =10.3 𝑁
the scale pan

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

A
light inextensible string. The scale pan B by mass A, will be the same as the
carries two masses, A and B. The mass of A 0.4g B
force exerted on mass A by mass B
 So we can consider mass A instead
is 400g and the mass of B is 600g. A rests (the scale pan is not acting on it)
on top of B. 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  −0.4 𝑔=(0.4 ×0.5)
Calculate
c) Find the force exerted on mass B by
the scale pan
𝑅=4.1
  𝑁 (2 𝑠𝑓 )

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)
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
particles by considering the particles acting 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

The scale pan is raised vertically with an 4.1N Resolving forces on B

 S is the force exerted by the
acceleration of 0.5ms-2. scale pan on mass B
0.5ms-2
a) Find the Tension in the string – 10.3N 0.6kg B
𝐹=𝑚𝑎
  Sub in
b) Find the force exerted on mass B by 0.6g forces
mass A – 4.1N 𝑆  −4.1 −0.6 𝑔=(0.6 ×0.5)
S Calculate
c) Find the force exerted on mass B by
the scale pan
𝑆=10.3
  𝑁
This type of question can be very tricky
to get the hang of – make sure you get
lots of practice!

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
The heavier particle will move
separately downwards, pulling the lighter
one upwards
T T
Particles P and Q, of masses 2m and 3m, are Sometimes you have to set up
attached to the ends of a light inextensible T T two equations with the
string. The string passes over a small, information given, and combine
smooth, fixed pulley and the masses hang them…
with the string taut. The system is released a 2m 3m a
from rest. P Q

a) Find the acceleration of each mass

2mg 3mg
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
values values
d) Find the distance travelled by Q in the 𝑇  −2 𝑚𝑔=2 𝑚𝑎 3  𝑚𝑔− 𝑇 =3 𝑚𝑎
first 4 seconds, assuming that P does
not reach the pulley 𝑇  −2 𝑚𝑔=2 𝑚𝑎
e) Comment on any modelling assumptions 3  𝑚𝑔− 𝑇 =3 𝑚𝑎
used
Add the equations
together
𝑚𝑔=5
  𝑚𝑎 Cancel m’s and
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
The heavier particle will move
separately downwards, pulling the lighter
one upwards
T T
Particles P and Q, of masses 2m and 3m, are
Sometimes you have to set up
attached to the ends of a light inextensible T T two equations with the
string. The string passes over a small, information given, and combine
smooth, fixed pulley and the masses hang them…
with the string taut. The system is released a 2m 3m a
from rest.
P Q

a) Find the acceleration of each mass –

2mg 3mg
1.96ms-2
b) Find the tension in the string, in terms of Equation using P Equation using Q
m
c) Find the force exerted on the pulley by
𝐹=𝑚𝑎
  Sub in
𝐹=𝑚𝑎
  Sub in
the string, in terms of m 𝑇  −2 𝑚𝑔=2 𝑚𝑎 values 3  𝑚𝑔− 𝑇 =3 𝑚𝑎 values

d) Find the distance travelled by Q in the

first 4 seconds, assuming that P does not 𝑇  −2 𝑚𝑔=2 𝑚𝑎 Rearrange
reach the pulley
e) Comment on any modelling assumptions
𝑇  =2 𝑚𝑎+2𝑚𝑔 to find T Sub in g
and a
used 𝑇  =( 2 ×1.96 ) 𝑚+ ( 2 ×9.8 ) 𝑚 Group up
𝑇  =23.52 𝑚 for m
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

T
23.52m 23.52m
T
Particles P and Q, of masses 2m and 3m, are 23.52m + 23.52m
attached to the ends of a light inextensible T T
string. The string passes over a small, = 47.04m
smooth, fixed pulley and the masses hang
with the string taut. The system is released a 2m 3m a
from rest.
P Q

a) Find the acceleration of each mass –

2mg 3mg
1.96ms-2
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
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

23.52m 23.52m
Particles P and Q, of masses 2m and 3m, are
attached to the ends of a light inextensible T T
string. The string passes over a small,
smooth, fixed pulley and the masses hang
with the string taut. The system is released a 2m 3m a
from rest.
P Q

a) Find the acceleration of each mass –

2mg 3mg
1.96ms-2
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 1 2
 
𝑠=𝑢𝑡 + 𝑎𝑡
the string, in terms of m – 47.04m 2 Sub in
d) Find the distance travelled by Q in the values
first 4 seconds, assuming that P does not   ( 0 ) (4 )+ 1 (1.96)(4)2
𝑠=
reach the pulley 2
Calculate
e) Comment on any modelling assumptions
used
𝑠=15.7
  𝑚
3F
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
You can solve problems involving connected
particles by considering the particles
separately

23.52m 23.52m
Particles P and Q, of masses 2m and 3m, are
attached to the ends of a light inextensible T T
string. The string passes over a small,
smooth, fixed pulley and the masses hang
with the string taut. The system is released a 2m 3m a
from rest.
P Q

a) Find the acceleration of each mass –

2mg 3mg
1.96ms-2
b) Find the tension in the string, in terms of Comment on the modelling assumptions used:
m – 23.52m
c) Find the force exerted on the pulley by Light string  The string has no mass
the string, in terms of m – 47.04m
d) Find the distance travelled by Q in the Inextensible string  The particles move with
first 4 seconds, assuming that P does not the same acceleration
reach the pulley – 15.7metres
e) Comment on any modelling assumptions Smooth pulley – No Frictional force, tension
used equal on both sides
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
T
Two particles A and B of masses 0.4kg and 0.4g
0.8kg respectively are connected by a light T
inextensible string. Particle A lies on a rough
horizontal table 4.5m from a small smooth a
a
fixed pulley which is attached to the end of As we do not know the tension, we will have B
the table. The string passes over the pulley to set up and solve 2 equations for a
and B hangs freely, with the string taut,  Remember particle A will also be
0.5m above the ground. The coefficient of affected by friction – we need to know this 0.5m
friction between A and the table is 0.2. The first… 0.8g
system is released from 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 before
𝐹=𝑚𝑎
  Resolve
𝐹  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =𝜇 𝑅 Sub
in
it comes to rest vertically
𝑅  −0.4 𝑔=(0.4 ×0) 𝐹  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =(0.2× 0.4 𝑔)
d) The force the string exerts on the Rearrange… Solve
pulley 𝑅=0.4
  𝑔 𝐹  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =0.08 𝑔

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

  Resolve 𝐹=𝑚𝑎
  Resolve
b) The velocity at which B hits the ground 𝑇 −0.08 𝑔=0.4 𝑎 horizontally vertically
  0.8
  𝑔− 𝑇 =0.8 𝑎
c) The total distance travelled by A before
it comes to rest Add the two
𝑇 −0.08 𝑔=0.4 𝑎
equations together  
d) The force the string exerts on the
 The T’s cancel out 0.8 𝑔 − 𝑇 =0.8 𝑎
pulley  
0.72
  𝑔=1.2 𝑎 Divide by 1.2
0.6
  𝑔=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
T
Two particles A and B of masses 0.4kg and 0.4g
0.8kg respectively are connected by a light T
inextensible string. Particle A lies on a rough
horizontal table 4.5m from a small smooth 0.6g
0.6g
fixed pulley which is attached to the end of  We can use SUVAT to calculate the velocity B
the table. The string passes over the pulley of B as it hits the ground
and B hangs freely, with the string taut,
0.5m above the ground. The coefficient of 0.5m
friction between A and the table is 0.2. The
𝑠=0.5
  𝑢=0
  𝑣  =?𝑎=0.6
  𝑔 𝑡=?
  0.8g
system is released from rest. Find:
𝑣  2 =𝑢2+ 2 𝑎𝑠
Sub in values
2 2
a) The acceleration of the system – 0.6g 𝑣  =(0) + 2(0.6 𝑔)(0.5)
b) The velocity at which B hits the ground Calculate
2
c) The total distance travelled by A before
𝑣  =0.6 𝑔 Square
it comes to rest −1 root
𝑣  =2.42 𝑚 𝑠
d) The force the string exerts on the
pulley

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
T
Two particles A and B of masses 0.4kg and
0.4g
0.8kg respectively are connected by a light T
inextensible string. Particle A lies on a rough
horizontal table 4.5m from a small smooth 0.6g
0.2g
fixed pulley which is attached to the end of 0.6g
Particle A will travel 0.5m by the time B B
the table. The string passes over the pulley hits the floor
and B hangs freely, with the string taut, 0.5m
above the ground. The coefficient of friction When B hits the floor, A will be moving at 0.5m
between A and the table is 0.2. The system is speed (the same as B as it hit the floor…) and 0.8g
released from 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  −0.08 𝑔=(0.4 ×𝑎) T = 0 now as the
c) The total distance travelled by A before string will be slack
it comes to rest 0−0.08
  𝑔=0.4 𝑎
Divide by 0.4
d) The force the string exerts on the pulley −0.2
  𝑔=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
T
Two particles A and B of masses 0.4kg and
0.4g
0.8kg respectively are connected by a light T
inextensible string. Particle A lies on a rough
horizontal table 4.5m from a small smooth 0.2g
fixed pulley which is attached to the end of 0.6g
Now we can use SUVAT again to find the B
the table. The string passes over the pulley distance A travels before coming to rest…
and B hangs freely, with the string taut, 0.5m
above the ground. The coefficient of friction 𝑠=?
  𝑢=2.42
  𝑣  =0𝑎=−0.2
  𝑔 𝑡=?
  0.8g
0.5m
between A and the table is 0.2. The system is
released from rest. Find: 𝑣  2 =𝑢2+ 2 𝑎𝑠 Sub in values (remember the
initial velocity of A)
a) The acceleration of the system – 0.6g 0  2=2.422+2 (− 0.2 𝑔)¿
Calculate
b) The velocity at which B hits the ground –
2.42ms-1
0=5.88−
  3.92 𝑠 Rearrange to
find s
c) The total distance travelled by A before 𝑠=1.5𝑚
  Remember to add on the 0.5m A
it comes to rest
has already travelled!
d) The force the string exerts on the pulley 𝑠=2𝑚
 

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
3.136N
T
Two particles A and B of masses 0.4kg and
0.4g
0.8kg respectively are connected by a light T
inextensible string. Particle A lies on a rough
horizontal table 4.5m from a small smooth 0.6g
fixed pulley which is attached to the end of 0.6g
The two tensions are the forces acting on the
B
the table. The string passes over the pulley pulley
and B hangs freely, with the string taut, 0.5m  We first need to know the value of T, and we
above the ground. The coefficient of friction can use an equation from earlier to find it…
0.5m
between A and the table is 0.2. The system is 0.8g
released from rest. Find:
𝑇  −0.08 𝑔=0.4 𝑎 We worked out acceleration
a) The acceleration of the system – 0.6g earlier

b) The velocity at which B hits the ground –

𝑇  −0.08 𝑔=0.4 (0.6 g)
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

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
3.136N
Two particles A and B of masses 0.4kg and
0.4g
0.8kg respectively are connected by a light T
inextensible string. Particle A lies on a rough
horizontal table 4.5m from a small smooth 0.6g
fixed pulley which is attached to the end of 0.6g
The overall force on the pulley is the resultant
B
the table. The string passes over the pulley of the two tensions
and B hangs freely, with the string taut, 0.5m  Since they are acting at 90° to each other,
above the ground. The coefficient of friction the resultant will be at a 45° angle between
0.5m
them (effectively an angle bisector) 0.8g
between A and the table is 0.2. The system is
released from rest. Find:
3.136N
a) The acceleration of the system – 0.6g 45°   𝐴𝑑𝑗
𝐻𝑦𝑝=
b) The velocity at which B hits the ground – 45° 3.136N 𝐶𝑜𝑠 𝜃
Hyp Sub in values
2.42ms-1
c) The total distance travelled by A before Adj   3.136
𝐻𝑦𝑝= This will be the
it comes to rest – 2m 𝐶𝑜𝑠 45 force from one
d) The force the string exerts on the pulley F Opp part of the

Draw a diagram and show the resultant 𝐻𝑦𝑝=4.43

  𝑁 string

force
 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  −5 𝑔𝐶𝑜𝑠 25=(5 ×0)
Rearrange
𝑅=5𝑔𝐶𝑜𝑠
  25

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 𝐹  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =𝜇 𝑅
and the plane is 0.2. Sub in values for particle P
𝐹  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =(0.2× 5 𝑔𝐶𝑜𝑠 25)
Calculate
a) Find the acceleration of the system 𝐹  𝑀𝐴𝑋 =𝑔𝐶𝑜𝑠 25

b) Find the tension in the string

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
  Parallel for P 𝐹=𝑚𝑎
  Resolve
Vertically
for Q
b) Find the tension in the string
𝑇  − 𝑔𝐶𝑜𝑠 25−5 𝑔𝑆𝑖𝑛25=5𝑎 10
  𝑔 − 𝑇 =10 𝑎
𝑇  − 𝑔𝐶𝑜𝑠 25 −5 𝑔𝑆𝑖𝑛25=5𝑎 Add the equations together
10
  𝑔 − 𝑇 =10 𝑎  The T’s cancel out!

10𝑔−
  𝑔𝐶𝑜𝑠 25− 5𝑔𝑆𝑖𝑛 25=15𝑎 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. 10
  𝑔 − 𝑇 =10 𝑎 We now know
the acceleration
a) Find the acceleration of the system – 10
  𝑔 − 𝑇 =10(4.56)
Solve for T
4.56ms-2
𝑇  =52.4 𝑁
b) Find the tension in the string

3F
Teachings for Exercise 3G
 Dynamics of a Particle moving in a
Straight Line
You can calculate the momentum of a Find the magnitude of the momentum of:
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 𝑀𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑢𝑚=𝑚𝑣
which is moving with velocity v is given
  Sub in units (remember
to use kg)
by mv 𝑀𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑢𝑚=0.4
  ×18 Calculate
𝑀𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑢𝑚=7.2
  𝑁𝑠
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 Calculate
−1
As kgms-2 is Newtons… 𝑀𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑢𝑚=60,000
  𝑘𝑔𝑚 𝑠

kgms-1 can be written as Ns

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

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
seconds, then the units of impulse are
  =𝑚
𝐹 ( 𝑡 )
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 So Impulse = Final momentum – Initial momentum
noticeable impulse to the ball
So Impulse = Change in momentum

This is the Impulse-Momentum Principle!

3G
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

A body of mass 2kg is initially at rest 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒=6

  × 4.5
Calculate
on a smooth horizontal plane. A
horizontal force of magnitude 4.5N 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒=27
  𝑁𝑠
acts on the body for 6s. Find:

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

given to the body by the force
  Sub in impulse, the
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
 

3G
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 2.5ms-1
wall with speed 2.5ms-1. Find the
magnitude of the impulse the ball
exerts on the wall.
𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒=𝑚𝑣
  − 𝑚𝑢 Sub in values, remembering
the final velocity is in the
The wall does not move and as such opposite direction
you cannot apply the Impulse- 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒=(0.2×
  −2.5)−(0.2 ×3.5)
Careful with negatives!
momentum principle to it.
𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒=−
  0.5− 0.7
Calculate
 You can however apply the principle
to the ball and use Newton’s third law 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒=−
  1.2𝑁𝑠 The Impulse will be
to deduce that the Impulse from the 1.2Ns in either
wall must be equal and opposite… 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒=1.2
  𝑁𝑠 direction

3G
Teachings for Exercise 3H
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 𝑚
  1 𝑢1 +𝑚 2 𝑢 2=𝑚 1 𝑣 1+ 𝑚 2 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
momentum cancel each other out, and before impact impact
the overall momentum is unchanged
When solving problems involving this principle:
This is the principle of Conservation a) Draw a diagram and label velocities before and after impact
of Momentum with their relevant directions
b) Draw impulses on where necessary
c) Choose a positive direction and apply the rules you know

3H
𝑀𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑢𝑚=𝑚𝑣
  𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒=𝑚𝑣
  − 𝑚𝑢
Dynamics of a Particle moving in a 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒=𝐹𝑡
 
𝑚
  𝑢 +𝑚 𝑢 =𝑚 𝑣 + 𝑚 𝑣
1 1 2 2 1
Straight Line
1 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
rest on the plane. Particle P collides We aren’t sure which direction P goes after the collision – just
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:
𝑚
  1 𝑢1 +𝑚 2 𝑢 2=𝑚1 𝑣 1+ 𝑚 2 𝑣2 Sub in the values
a) The speed and direction of the 1 from the diagram
motion of P after the collision   × 3)+(3 × 0 )=(2× 𝑣 )+(3 × 2 3 )
(2
Work out each side
0.5ms-1 in the opposite direction
6=2
  𝑣 +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

3H
𝑀𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑢𝑚=𝑚𝑣
  𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒=𝑚𝑣
  − 𝑚𝑢
Dynamics of a Particle moving in a 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒=𝐹𝑡
 
𝑚
  𝑢 +𝑚 𝑢 =𝑚 𝑣 + 𝑚 𝑣
1 1 2 2 1
Straight Line
1 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
0.5ms-1 in the opposite direction 𝐼=7
  𝑁𝑠 You can see the impulse
b) The magnitude of the impulse received by each is equal
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
1
𝐼 =(3× 2
  ) − (3× 0 )
3
Calculate
𝐼=7
  𝑁𝑠 3H
𝑀𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑢𝑚=𝑚𝑣
  𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒=𝑚𝑣
  − 𝑚𝑢
Dynamics of a Particle moving in a 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒=𝐹𝑡
 
𝑚
  𝑢 +𝑚 𝑢 =𝑚 𝑣 + 𝑚 𝑣
1 1 2 2 1
Straight Line
1 2 2

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

Before motion
collisions using the principle of B A
not collide – in this
Conservation of Momentum I I case the impulse is
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. 𝑚
  1 𝑢1 +𝑚 2 𝑢 2=𝑚1 𝑣 1+ 𝑚 2 𝑣2 Sub in values from the
diagram, leaving v in both
a) Find the speed of the particles   0)+(8 × 4)=(2× 𝑣 )+(8 × 𝑣)
(2× cases
when the string goes taut Work out brackets
v = 3.2ms-1 3  2=10 𝑣
Divide by 10
b) Find the magnitude of the
impulse transmitted through the
3  .2=𝑣
string when it goes taut

3H
𝑀𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑢𝑚=𝑚𝑣
  𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒=𝑚𝑣
  − 𝑚𝑢
Dynamics of a Particle moving in a 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒=𝐹𝑡
 
𝑚
  𝑢 +𝑚 𝑢 =𝑚 𝑣 + 𝑚 𝑣
1 1 2 2 1
Straight Line
1 2 2

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

Before motion
collisions using the principle of B A
not collide – in this
Conservation of Momentum I I case the impulse is
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=6.4
  𝑁𝑠
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!

3H
𝑀𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑢𝑚=𝑚𝑣
  𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒=𝑚𝑣
  − 𝑚𝑢
Dynamics of a Particle moving in a 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒=𝐹𝑡
 
𝑚
  𝑢 +𝑚 𝑢 =𝑚 𝑣 + 𝑚 𝑣
1 1 2 2 1
Straight Line
1 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 P Q
work it out!)
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
  × 𝑣 1)−(2×− 3) Work out
As this answer is
magnitude of the impulse due to the 7=2 𝑣 1 +6 brackets
positive, it means the
collision is 7Ns, find:   direction we put on the
Calculate
0.5=𝑣
  1
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
  × 𝑣 2)−(4 ×− 2) Work out As this answer is
brackets negative, it means the
7=4
  𝑣 2+ 8 direction we put on the
Calculate diagram is incorrect!
−0.25=𝑣
  2
3H
 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!