SPC · Section Part II · Long answer

Mechanics

45 questions — reveal each answer and worked solution.

2007-9II · Long answerd4Mechanics · Oscillations: damped SHM / exponential amplitude decay and energy

A mass $M$ is attached to the end of a horizontal spring. The mass is pulled to the right, 8 cm from its rest position. It is then released so that the mass oscillates to the left and right, with the system gradually losing energy over many cycles.

figure

a) State the energy changes that take place over one complete cycle as the mass moves to the left and then back to the right.
b) The energy stored in a stretched spring is proportional to the square of the extension of the spring. If after some time, the amplitude of the oscillation is reduced to 1 cm , what fraction of the initial energy has been lost? Show your working.
c) We will need to use a concept that you have met in radioactivity. State what is meant by the half-life of a radioactive substance.
d) Now we shall apply this concept to the loss of energy from the oscillating system. The amplitude decays away in the same manner as radioactive decay (exponentially). How many half-lives have passed for the amplitude to reduce to 1 cm ?
e) The period of oscillation does not depend upon the amplitude of the oscillation, being the same for both large and small amplitudes. The period of oscillation is 0.5 seconds. The half-life for the amplitude loss is 5 seconds. How many oscillations have occurred by the time the amplitude has dropped down to 1 cm ?
f) The energy is also dissipated away exponentially with time. Using your answer to part (b) for the energy lost, how many energy loss half-lives have passed when the amplitude has reduced to 1 cm ?

Show worked solution
a) Energy changes over one complete cycle

Over one complete oscillation cycle, the energy continuously transforms between elastic potential energy stored in the spring and kinetic energy of the mass:

  • At the extreme right position: Maximum elastic potential energy, zero kinetic energy
  • Moving left: Elastic potential energy $\rightarrow$ kinetic energy
  • At the equilibrium position: Maximum kinetic energy, zero elastic potential energy
  • Continuing left: Kinetic energy $\rightarrow$ elastic potential energy
  • At the extreme left position: Maximum elastic potential energy, zero kinetic energy
  • Moving right: Elastic potential energy $\rightarrow$ kinetic energy
  • At the equilibrium position: Maximum kinetic energy, zero elastic potential energy
  • Continuing right: Kinetic energy $\rightarrow$ elastic potential energy
  • Back at extreme right: Maximum elastic potential energy, zero kinetic energy

So the sequence is: elastic PE $\rightarrow$ KE $\rightarrow$ elastic PE $\rightarrow$ KE $\rightarrow$ elastic PE

b) Fraction of initial energy lost

The energy stored in a spring is proportional to the square of its extension: $E \propto x^2$

Initial amplitude: $x_i = 8$ cm Final amplitude: $x_f = 1$ cm

The ratio of energies is: $$\frac{E_f}{E_i} = \frac{x_f^2}{x_i^2} = \frac{1^2}{8^2} = \frac{1}{64}$$

This means $\frac{1}{64}$ of the initial energy remains.

The fraction lost is: $$\text{Fraction lost} = 1 - \frac{1}{64} = \frac{63}{64}$$

c) Half-life definition

The half-life of a radioactive substance is the time taken for half of the radioactive nuclei (or half of the radioactive material) to undergo decay.

d) Number of half-lives for amplitude to reduce to 1 cm

The amplitude decays exponentially. Starting from 8 cm:

  • After 1 half-life: $8 \text{ cm} \rightarrow 4 \text{ cm}$
  • After 2 half-lives: $4 \text{ cm} \rightarrow 2 \text{ cm}$
  • After 3 half-lives: $2 \text{ cm} \rightarrow 1 \text{ cm}$

Therefore, 3 half-lives have passed.

e) Number of oscillations

Given:
- Period of oscillation $T = 0.5$ seconds
- Half-life for amplitude loss $T_{1/2} = 5$ seconds
Number of oscillations per half-life: $$n = \frac{T_{1/2}}{T} = \frac{5}{0.5} = 10 \text{ oscillations}$$

For 3 half-lives: $$\text{Total oscillations} = 3 \times 10 = 30 \text{ oscillations}$$

f) Energy loss half-lives

From part (b), the energy reduced by a factor of 64. Since energy is proportional to amplitude squared, and the amplitude reduced by a factor of 8, we need to find how many energy half-lives correspond to a factor of 64:

$$\left(\frac{1}{2}\right)^n = \frac{1}{64}$$

$$2^n = 64 = 2^6$$

$$n = 6$$

Alternatively, counting down: $64 \rightarrow 32 \rightarrow 16 \rightarrow 8 \rightarrow 4 \rightarrow 2 \rightarrow 1$

This is 6 half-lives for energy loss.

Note: Energy decays twice as fast as amplitude because $E \propto A^2$. When amplitude reduces by half ($\frac{1}{2}$), energy reduces by a quarter ($\frac{1}{4} = \frac{1}{2} \times \frac{1}{2}$), which is equivalent to two energy half-lives.

2008-3II · Long answerd3Mechanics · Forces: Newton's second law with velocity-dependent friction

The speed $v$ of a vehicle traveling along a straight level road is shown in the above graph. It starts from rest at time $t=0$, accelerates uniformly until $t=t_{1}$ and then continues at constant speed. At all times the vehicle experiences a retarding force due to friction, which is proportional to its speed. The force $f$, which must be applied by the engine of the vehicle, is given by

figure
figure

Which graph (A, B, C, or D) correctly represents the force?

Show worked solution

This problem requires analyzing the engine force needed for a vehicle with velocity-dependent friction.

Given: - Vehicle starts from rest ($v = 0$ at $t = 0$)
- Accelerates uniformly until $t = t_1$
- Continues at constant speed after $t_1$
- Friction force proportional to speed: $f_{friction} = kv$ where $k$ is a constant
Phase 1: Accelerating ($0 \leq t \leq t_1$)

During uniform acceleration: $a = \text{constant}$ $$v(t) = at$$

The engine must provide: 1. Force to overcome friction: $f_{friction} = kat$ 2. Force to accelerate: $F_{net} = ma$

$$F_{engine}(t) = ma + kat$$

This is a linear function starting at $F_{engine}(0) = ma$ and increasing to $F_{engine}(t_1) = ma + kat_1$.

Phase 2: Constant speed ($t > t_1$)

After $t_1$, velocity is constant at $v_{max} = at_1$.

The vehicle is no longer accelerating, so $F_{net} = 0$. The engine only needs to overcome friction: $$F_{engine} = f_{friction} = kat_1 = \text{constant}$$

Graph shape:

The force vs. time graph shows:
- A linear ramp from $t=0$ to $t=t_1$ (increasing from $ma$ to $ma + kat_1$)
- A constant horizontal line after $t=t_1$ (at value $kat_1$)
This corresponds to graph A.

2009-11II · Long answerd4Mechanics · Kinematics: point of no return with two-phase SUVAT motion

A plane accelerates from rest to take off from a runway. There is a point of no return where the pilot will not be able to stop the plane before the end of the runway if he fails to take off. The runaway is 2 km long and the plane can accelerate at $3 \mathrm{~ms}^{-2}$ and can decelerate at $2 \mathrm{~ms}^{-2}$. We can calculate the length of time available from the start of the take off to the point of no return.
a) Sketch a graph of the speed of the plane against time for the situation where the plane fails to take off but the whole length of the runway is used. (no values are required)
b) If $t_{1}$ is the time taken for the plane to reach its maximum speed $v$, and $t_{2}$ is the time taken for it to decelerate before it goes beyond the end of the runway, express $v$ in terms of $t_{1}$ and $t_{2}$, and the respective accelerations.
c) Calculate the distance $s_{1}$ travelled by the plane whilst accelerating, in terms of $t_{1}$, and the distance $s_{2}$ travelled by the plane whilst decelerating, in terms of $t_{2}$.
d) From your answers to (b) and (c), calculate the value of $t_{1}$, the time taken to reach the point of no return, given that the runaway is 2 km long.

Show worked solution

This problem involves kinematics of a plane accelerating and decelerating on a runway, finding the point of no return.

Given:
- Runway length: $L = 2 km = 2000 m$
- Acceleration: $a = 3 m/s^2$
- Deceleration: $d = 2 m/s^2$
- Plane starts from rest
a) Speed vs. time graph:

The graph shows:
- From $t = 0$ to $t_1$: Linear increase from speed 0 to maximum speed $v$ (acceleration phase)
- From $t_1$ to $t_1 + t_2$: Linear decrease from speed $v$ to 0 (deceleration phase)
- The slope of the first line segment is $a = 3 m/s^2$
- The slope of the second line segment is $-d = -2 m/s^2$
The area under this triangular graph equals the total distance (2000 m).

b) Expressing maximum speed $v$:

During acceleration phase (from rest): $$v = at_1 = 3t_1$$

During deceleration phase (to rest): $$v = dt_2 = 2t_2$$

Equating the two expressions: $$3t_1 = 2t_2 \Rightarrow t_2 = \frac{3}{2}t_1$$

c) Distances traveled:

Using $s = ut + \frac{1}{2}at^2$ with initial velocity $u = 0$:

Distance during acceleration ($s_1$): $$s_1 = \frac{1}{2}at_1^2 = \frac{1}{2}(3)t_1^2 = \frac{3}{2}t_1^2$$ Distance during deceleration ($s_2$): $$s_2 = vt_2 - \frac{1}{2}dt_2^2$$

Substituting $v = 2t_2$: $$s_2 = (2t_2)t_2 - \frac{1}{2}(2)t_2^2 = 2t_2^2 - t_2^2 = t_2^2$$

d) Calculating $t_1$ (time to point of no return):

Total runway distance equals sum of acceleration and deceleration distances: $$L = s_1 + s_2$$

$$2000 = \frac{3}{2}t_1^2 + t_2^2$$

Substituting $t_2 = \frac{3}{2}t_1$: $$2000 = \frac{3}{2}t_1^2 + \left(\frac{3}{2}t_1\right)^2$$

$$2000 = \frac{3}{2}t_1^2 + \frac{9}{4}t_1^2$$

$$2000 = \frac{6}{4}t_1^2 + \frac{9}{4}t_1^2 = \frac{15}{4}t_1^2$$

$$t_1^2 = \frac{2000 \times 4}{15} = \frac{8000}{15} = 533.33$$

$$t_1 = \sqrt{533.33} \approx 23.1 \text{ s} \approx 23 \text{ s}$$

Physical interpretation:

The point of no return occurs at $t_1 = 23$ seconds after starting the takeoff roll. At this moment, if the pilot decides to abort, the remaining runway is exactly sufficient to bring the plane to a stop. Beyond this point, the plane must take off or it will overrun the runway.

2009-12II · Long answerd4Mechanics · Fluid Mechanics: continuity equation with free-falling water stream

A stream of water flows vertically downwards from a running tap, as shown below. Some way down the flow, there is a 3 cm long segment of flowing water where the diameter of the circular stream reduces from $d_{1}=5 \mathrm{~mm}$ to a diameter $d_{2}=4 \mathrm{~mm}$. From this we can determine the flow rate and how long it will take to fill a beaker of volume $200 \mathrm{~cm}^{3}$. We shall assume that water is incompressible.
a) Explain why the segment of water becomes narrower.
b) If the speed of the water at the top of the segment is $v_{1}$ then what is the speed $v_{2}$ of the water at the bottom of the segment expressed in terms of $v_{1}, d_{1}$ and $d_{2}$?
c) Calculate the speed of the water flow at the top of the segment.
d) From your answer to part (b), calculate the volume flow of water per second.
e) Calculate the time taken to fill a $200 \mathrm{~cm}^{3}$ beaker.

Show worked solution

This problem involves fluid dynamics, specifically the continuity equation and kinematics of falling water.

Given:
- Top diameter: $d_1 = 5$ mm
- Bottom diameter: $d_2 = 4$ mm
- Segment length: $s = 3$ cm $= 0.03$ m
- Water is incompressible
- Beaker volume: $V = 200 cm^3 = 200 \times 10^{-6} m^3$
a) Why the stream becomes narrower:

As water falls under gravity, it accelerates downward (gains speed). Since water is incompressible, the same volume of water must pass through any cross-section per unit time (conservation of mass).

Volume flow rate $Q = Av$ must be constant: $$A_1v_1 = A_2v_2 = \text{constant}$$

Where $A$ is cross-sectional area and $v$ is flow speed.

As speed $v$ increases, area $A$ must decrease to maintain constant flow rate. Therefore, the stream narrows as it falls.

b) Relating speeds $v_1$ and $v_2$:

Cross-sectional area of circular stream: $A = \frac{\pi d^2}{4}$

Using continuity equation (volume flow rate conservation): $$A_1v_1 = A_2v_2$$

$$\frac{\pi d_1^2}{4} \cdot v_1 = \frac{\pi d_2^2}{4} \cdot v_2$$

$$v_2 = \frac{d_1^2}{d_2^2} \cdot v_1$$

c) Calculating $v_1$ (speed at top):

As water falls through height $s$, it accelerates under gravity. Using kinematic equation: $$v_2^2 = v_1^2 + 2gs$$

Substituting $v_2 = \frac{d_1^2}{d_2^2}v_1$: $$\left(\frac{d_1^2}{d_2^2}v_1\right)^2 = v_1^2 + 2gs$$

$$\frac{d_1^4}{d_2^4}v_1^2 - v_1^2 = 2gs$$

$$v_1^2\left(\frac{d_1^4}{d_2^4} - 1\right) = 2gs$$

With $d_1 = 5$ mm, $d_2 = 4$ mm, $s = 0.03$ m, $g = 9.8 m/s^2$: $$v_1^2\left(\frac{5^4}{4^4} - 1\right) = 2 \times 9.8 \times 0.03$$

$$v_1^2\left(\frac{625}{256} - 1\right) = 0.588$$

$$v_1^2\left(2.441 - 1\right) = 0.588$$

$$v_1^2(1.441) = 0.588$$

$$v_1^2 = \frac{0.588}{1.441} = 0.408$$

$$v_1 = \sqrt{0.408} \approx 0.64 \text{ m/s}$$

d) Volume flow rate:

$$Q = A_1v_1 = \frac{\pi d_1^2}{4} \cdot v_1$$

$$Q = \frac{\pi (5 \times 10^{-3})^2}{4} \times 0.64$$

$$Q = \frac{\pi \times 25 \times 10^{-6}}{4} \times 0.64$$

$$Q = 1.26 \times 10^{-5} \text{ m}^3/\text{s}$$

e) Time to fill beaker:

$$\text{Time} = \frac{\text{Volume}}{\text{Flow rate}} = \frac{V}{Q}$$

$$\text{Time} = \frac{200 \times 10^{-6}}{1.26 \times 10^{-5}}$$

$$\text{Time} \approx 15.9 \text{ s}$$

2010-11II · Long answerd3Mechanics · Fluid Mechanics: density mixture / simultaneous equations for composition

An archaeologist at an excavation discovers a crown that looks like gold. It has a mass of 546 g and a volume of $34.6 \mathrm{~cm}^{3}$. However, chemical analysis shows that the bar consists of a mixture of gold and silver. Unfortunately the analysis is unable to give the proportions without removing a sample. The problem is to find the mass of gold in the crown. We assume that the volume of the crown is equal to the initial volumes of gold and silver of which it is composed.

Density of gold, $\rho_{g}=19.3 \mathrm{~g} \mathrm{~cm}^{-3}$
Density of silver, $\rho_{s}=10.5 \mathrm{~g} \mathrm{~cm}^{-3}$
a) Write down an equation relating the masses $m_{g}$ and $m_{s}$ of gold and silver in the crown and an equation for the corresponding volumes $V_{g}$ and $V_{s}$.
b) Write down an equation for the total mass in terms of the volumes $V_{g}, V_{s}$ and densities $\rho_{g}, \rho_{s}$ of the gold and silver in the crown.
c) In the equation from (b) substitute for $V_{s}$ and then substitute for $V_{g}$ to obtain a relation between $\rho_{g}, \rho_{s}$ and $m_{g}$.
d) Determine the value of the mass of gold, $m_{g}$.

Show worked solution

This problem involves density calculations and mixture analysis to determine the composition of a gold-silver crown.

Given: - Total mass of crown: $m = 546 g$
- Total volume of crown: $V = 34.6 cm^3$
- Density of gold: $\rho_g = 19.3 g/cm^3$
- Density of silver: $\rho_s = 10.5 g/cm^3$
a) Mass and volume equations:

Let $m_g$ = mass of gold, $m_s$ = mass of silver Let $V_g$ = volume of gold, $V_s$ = volume of silver

Mass conservation: $$m_g + m_s = 546 \text{ g}$$ Volume conservation: $$V_g + V_s = 34.6 \text{ cm}^3$$ b) Total mass in terms of volumes and densities:

Using $\rho = \frac{m}{V}$, we have $m = \rho V$:

$$\rho_g V_g + \rho_s V_s = 546$$

Substituting values: $$19.3 V_g + 10.5 V_s = 546$$

c) Relation between densities and $m_g$: Step 1: Express $V_s$ in terms of $V_g$: $$V_s = 34.6 - V_g$$ Step 2: Substitute into mass equation: $$19.3 V_g + 10.5(34.6 - V_g) = 546$$

$$19.3 V_g + 363.3 - 10.5 V_g = 546$$

$$8.8 V_g = 546 - 363.3 = 182.7$$

$$V_g = \frac{182.7}{8.8} = 20.76 \text{ cm}^3$$

Step 3: Convert to mass using $V_g = \frac{m_g}{\rho_g}$: $$20.76 = \frac{m_g}{19.3}$$

$$m_g = 20.76 \times 19.3 \approx 401 \text{ g}$$

Alternative derivation (as shown in question):

Starting from: $\rho_s(34.6 - V_g) + \rho_g V_g = 546$

Substitute $V_g = \frac{m_g}{\rho_g}$: $$\rho_s(34.6 - \frac{m_g}{\rho_g}) + m_g = 546$$

$$34.6\rho_s - \frac{\rho_s}{\rho_g}m_g + m_g = 546$$

$$m_g(1 - \frac{\rho_s}{\rho_g}) = 546 - 34.6\rho_s$$

$$m_g = \frac{546 - 34.6 \times 10.5}{1 - \frac{10.5}{19.3}} = \frac{546 - 363.3}{1 - 0.544} = \frac{182.7}{0.456} \approx 401 \text{ g}$$

d) Mass of gold:

$$m_g \approx 401 \text{ g} \approx 400 \text{ g}$$

Therefore, the crown contains approximately 400 grams of gold and 146 grams of silver (546 - 400 = 146 g).

2011-12II · Long answerd4Mechanics · Momentum and Energy: rolling sphere — rotational and translational KE conservation

A solid sphere of mass $m$ rolls down a slope. The sphere gains kinetic energy in two forms: rotational kinetic energy and translational kinetic energy in which the centre of mass moves along at speed $v$. For the solid sphere, a fixed fraction, $2 / 7$, of the gravitational potential energy lost as it rolls down the slope appears as rotational kinetic energy. If the sphere now rolls along a flat surface, moving at a speed of $4.0 \mathrm{~ms}^{-1}$ and then encounters a rising slope at $30^{\circ}$ to the horizontal, we can calculate how far up the slope the sphere will rise. We can take the mass of the sphere as 1 kg. a) Calculate the translational KE of the sphere and hence the total energy of the rolling sphere. b) Describe the energy changes that take place as the sphere rolls up the slope. c) What is the vertical height reached by the sphere? d) How far up along the slope does this take the sphere?

Show worked solution

This problem involves the physics of a rolling sphere on an inclined plane.

Understanding rolling motion:

When a solid sphere rolls without slipping, it has two types of kinetic energy: 1. Translational KE: Motion of the center of mass, $KE_{trans} = \frac{1}{2}mv^2$ 2. Rotational KE: Rotation about the center of mass, $KE_{rot} = \frac{1}{2}I\omega^2$

For a solid sphere: $I = \frac{2}{5}mr^2$ and $\omega = \frac{v}{r}$

Given information:
- Mass of sphere: $m = 1.0$ kg
- Initial speed: $v = 4.0$ m/s
- Slope angle: $\theta = 30^{\circ}$
- Fraction of energy as rotational KE: $\frac{2}{7}$
a) Calculating the kinetic energy: Translational kinetic energy: $$KE_{trans} = \frac{1}{2}mv^2 = \frac{1}{2}(1.0)(4.0)^2$$

$$KE_{trans} = 8.0 \text{ J}$$

Understanding the energy distribution:

Since translational KE is $\frac{2}{7}$ of the total energy, we can find the total:

$$KE_{trans} = \frac{5}{7} \times KE_{total}$$

(Note: $\frac{5}{7} = 1 - \frac{2}{7}$ for rotational)

Total energy: $$KE_{total} = KE_{trans} \times \frac{7}{5} = 8.0 \times \frac{7}{5}$$

$$KE_{total} = 11.2 \text{ J}$$

b) Energy changes as the sphere rolls up the slope:

As the sphere ascends:
- Translational KE decreases (slower motion)
- Rotational KE decreases (slower rotation)
- Gravitational PE increases (gaining height)
Key principle: Energy is conserved (rolling without slipping = no friction losses)

$$KE_{trans, initial} + KE_{rot, initial} = PE_{grav, final}$$

$$11.2 \text{ J} = mgh$$

c) Calculating the vertical height:

$$h = \frac{KE_{total}}{mg} = \frac{11.2}{1.0 \times 9.8}$$

$$h = 1.14 \text{ m}$$

d) Calculating the distance along the slope:

The relationship between height and slope length:

$$\sin \theta = \frac{\text{height}}{\text{slope length}}$$

$$\text{Slope length} = \frac{h}{\sin 30^{\circ}} = \frac{1.14}{0.5}$$

$$\text{Slope length} = 2.3 \text{ m}$$

Summary: The sphere rises 1.14 m vertically, which corresponds to 2.3 m along the $30^{\circ}$ slope, converting all its kinetic energy (both translational and rotational) into gravitational potential energy.
2012-11II · Long answerd4Mechanics · Momentum and Energy: gravitational PE in a pulley system, constraint from equilibrium

The weights shown in figure 2 below are balanced on strings and pulleys of negligible mass and friction. The masses $m_{A}$ and $m_{B}$ are not the same.

figure

a) If mass $\mathbf{A}$ is pulled down by a distance $h$, how far does mass $\mathbf{B}$ move? b) In terms of masses $m_{A}$ and $m_{B}$, what would be the changes of gravitational potential energy (gpe) of each mass, and what would be the change in gpe of the whole system? c) When $\mathbf{A}$ is pulled down and then released, the masses remain stationary in their new positions. How has the gravitational potential energy of the system changed from the start? d) What is the ratio of the masses $\frac{m_{A}}{m_{B}}$? Give a reason for your answer.

Show worked solution

This problem involves a pulley system with two masses connected by strings.

Understanding the setup:

We have two masses, $m_A$ and $m_B$, suspended from a pulley system:
- Mass A is connected to a string that goes over a pulley
- Mass B is connected to a string that goes around a different configuration
- When mass A moves down by distance $h$, the string arrangement affects how mass B moves
a) How far does mass B move when A moves down by $h$?

Analyzing the string configuration:

Looking at the pulley arrangement (though not shown in detail), when mass A moves down by $h$:
- The string on A's side shortens by $h$
- Due to the pulley geometry, this causes mass B to move by twice that distance
$$\text{Distance B moves} = 2h$$

Mass B moves upward by $2h$ when A moves downward by $h$.

b) Changes in gravitational potential energy: For mass A (moving down):
- A loses height: $\Delta h_A = -h$
- Change in GPE: $\Delta PE_A = m_A g \Delta h_A = -m_A g h$
Mass A loses potential energy equal to $m_A g h$. For mass B (moving up):
- B gains height: $\Delta h_B = +2h$
- Change in GPE: $\Delta PE_B = m_B g \Delta h_B = +m_B g (2h)$
Mass B gains potential energy equal to $2m_B g h$. Total change in system GPE: $$\Delta PE_{total} = \Delta PE_A + \Delta PE_B$$

$$\Delta PE_{total} = -m_A g h + 2m_B g h$$

$$\Delta PE_{total} = (2m_B - m_A)gh$$

c) Change in GPE when system remains stationary:

When A is pulled down and released, the masses remain in their new positions. This tells us something important about the energy balance.

If the system doesn't move after release, the net force must be zero, which means the potential energy change is...

$$\Delta PE_{total} = 0$$

The gravitational potential energy of the system doesn't change!

d) Finding the mass ratio:

From part (c), we know $\Delta PE_{total} = 0$:

$$(2m_B - m_A)gh = 0$$

Since $g \neq 0$ and $h \neq 0$:

$$2m_B - m_A = 0$$

$$m_A = 2m_B$$

Mass ratio: $$\frac{m_A}{m_B} = 2$$

Mass A is twice as heavy as mass B! This makes sense - the heavier weight A balances the mechanical advantage that gives B twice the displacement.

2012-13II · Long answerd3Mechanics · Momentum and Energy: pendulum energy conservation, speed ratio, release angle

Two pendulums shown in figure 4 below have equal masses at the end of light straight rods, but one pendulum (of length $2 \ell$) is twice the length of the other (of length $\ell$).

figure
figure

a) When they are swung through the same initial angle $\theta$ and released, which of them has the greater energy in its swing? Give a reason for your answer. b) Each pendulum is released from a horizontal position where the mass at the end is level with the support. The speed at the bottom of the swing for the long pendulum is $v_{L}$ and the speed at the bottom of the swing for the short pendulum is $v_{S}$. By considering the potential and kinetic energy of each pendulum, what is the ratio $\frac{v_{L}}{v_{S}}$? c) If the short pendulum is released from a horizontal position again, and achieves speed $v_{S}$ at the bottom of the swing, from what angle $\theta$ should the longer pendulum be released so that it reaches the same speed of $v_{S}$ at the bottom of its swing?

Show worked solution

This problem compares the energy and motion of two pendulums of different lengths.

Understanding the setup:

Two pendulums with equal masses $m$:
- Short pendulum: length $\ell$
- Long pendulum: length $2\ell$ (twice as long)
Both are light rods (massless compared to the bob).

a) Which pendulum has greater energy? When both swing through the same angle $\theta$:

The height the mass is raised above the lowest point: $$h = \ell(1 - \cos\theta)$$

For the long pendulum, the mass is raised higher because the rod is longer.

Long pendulum has greater energy because:
- Greater mass height $\rightarrow$ more gravitational PE converted to KE
- $PE = mgh$, where $h$ is larger for longer pendulum
b) Ratio of speeds at the bottom: Energy conservation approach:

At the bottom of the swing, all initial PE has converted to KE: $$mgh = \frac{1}{2}mv^2$$

For short pendulum (length $\ell$): Released from horizontal, so height dropped = $\ell$

$$mg\ell = \frac{1}{2}mv_S^2$$

$$v_S = \sqrt{2g\ell}$$

For long pendulum (length $2\ell$): Released from horizontal, so height dropped = $2\ell$

$$mg(2\ell) = \frac{1}{2}mv_L^2$$

$$v_L = \sqrt{4g\ell} = 2\sqrt{g\ell}$$

Speed ratio: $$\frac{v_L}{v_S} = \frac{2\sqrt{g\ell}}{\sqrt{2g\ell}} = \frac{2}{\sqrt{2}} = \sqrt{2}$$

$$\frac{v_L}{v_S} \approx 1.41$$

The long pendulum's mass is about 1.4 times faster at the bottom!

c) Release angle for equal speeds: Goal: Long pendulum should achieve speed $v_S$ (same as short pendulum at bottom). Required starting height:

For speed $v_S = \sqrt{2g\ell}$: $$mgh = \frac{1}{2}mv_S^2 = \frac{1}{2}m(2g\ell)$$

$$h = \ell$$

The long pendulum needs to start from height $\ell$ above its lowest point.

Finding the release angle:

The long pendulum has length $2\ell$. If released from angle $\theta$: $$h = 2\ell(1 - \cos\theta)$$

Setting $h = \ell$: $$\ell = 2\ell(1 - \cos\theta)$$

$$1 = 2(1 - \cos\theta)$$

$$1 = 2 - 2\cos\theta$$

$$2\cos\theta = 1$$

$$\cos\theta = \frac{1}{2}$$

$$\theta = 60^{\circ}$$

Summary:
- Long pendulum has more energy when swung through same angle
- Long pendulum is $\sqrt{2} \approx 1.4$ times faster at bottom
- Release long pendulum from $60^{\circ}$ to match short pendulum's speed
2013-12II · Long answerd5Mechanics · Torque and Rotation: toppling of a rigid body using energy conservation

A wardrobe filled with clothes is loaded onto a furniture van and driven along a straight road at a steady speed $v$. We will model the filled wardrobe as a solid rectangular block of uniform density. The van halts very rapidly, but smoothly (no conversion of mechanical energy into heat) so that the wardrobe just topples over. There is a small block to stop it sliding forwards.

figure

a) On the right of the block sketched in figure 3, sketch in the model block at the moment of toppling over. Mark on the centre of gravity. When it is at the point of toppling, what energy change has taken place? b) The height of the wardrobe is 2 m and its width is 1 m. By considering the energy change, calculate the minimum speed of the van for the wardrobe to topple over. c) If the van is going at a very high speed, it can halt with a long stopping time without the wardrobe toppling over. However, an extremely short stopping time should be avoided as the shock to the wardrobe will cause mechanical energy to be lost as heat. The question says "the van halts very rapidly". What physics time scale would be relevant to make the toppling example valid?

Show worked solution

This problem involves the physics of a toppling wardrobe in a braking van.

Understanding the situation:

A rectangular wardrobe (uniform density) is in a van:
- Van moves at speed $v$, then brakes rapidly
- Wardrobe just barely topples over (critical condition)
- Small block prevents sliding (only rotation about bottom edge)
- Height: $h = 2$ m, Width: $w = 1$ m
- Smooth braking: no energy lost to heat
a) Energy change at toppling:

The geometry at toppling:

At the critical moment when the wardrobe just begins to topple:
- It pivots about the bottom front corner
- Center of mass (CM) is directly above this corner
- The wardrobe is in unstable equilibrium
Energy transformation:

Initial state (moving van):
- Wardrobe has translational kinetic energy: $KE = \frac{1}{2}mv^2$
- Gravitational potential energy depends on CM height
Final state (just toppled):
- All KE has converted to gravitational PE
- CM has risen to its maximum position
$$\Delta KE \rightarrow \Delta PE$$

b) Minimum speed for toppling: Finding CM height change:

The wardrobe is a uniform rectangular block:
- Initial CM height: $\frac{h}{2} = \frac{2}{2} = 1$ m (half the height)
- At toppling, CM is directly above bottom corner
Final CM height:

Using Pythagorean theorem on the diagonal: $$h_{final} = \text{distance from corner to CM} = \frac{1}{2}\sqrt{h^2 + w^2}$$

$$h_{final} = \frac{1}{2}\sqrt{2^2 + 1^2} = \frac{1}{2}\sqrt{5} \text{ m}$$

Rise in CM: $$\Delta h = h_{final} - h_{initial} = \frac{\sqrt{5}}{2} - 1 \text{ m}$$

$$\Delta h = \frac{1}{2}(\sqrt{5} - 2) \approx 0.118 \text{ m}$$

Energy conservation:

$$\frac{1}{2}mv^2 = mg\Delta h$$

$$v^2 = 2g\Delta h = 2g \times \frac{1}{2}(\sqrt{5} - 2)$$

$$v = \sqrt{g(\sqrt{5} - 2)}$$

$$v = \sqrt{9.8 \times 0.236} \approx 1.52 \text{ m/s}$$

The minimum van speed for toppling is approximately $1.5$ m/s.

c) Relevant time scale: Two competing effects:

1. Rapid braking needed: To convert KE to PE before friction stops the rotation 2. Not too rapid: To avoid "shaking" or vibration that dissipates energy as heat

Critical time comparison:

Time for wardrobe to rotate to topple position:
- For a physical pendulum: $T \approx 2\pi\sqrt{\frac{L}{g}}$
- Where $L$ is effective length
If braking time $\ll$ toppling time: Energy mostly goes into rotation (good!) If braking time $\gg$ toppling time: Friction dissipates energy (bad!)

Optimal condition:

Braking should be "very rapid" compared to toppling time but not instantaneous:
- Fast enough that most KE becomes PE
- Smooth enough that minimal energy is lost to heat/shaking
The relevant time scale is the natural oscillation period of the wardrobe as a pendulum.

2014-6II · Long answerd1Mechanics · Fluid Mechanics: continuity equation

An incompressible liquid flows through a pipe which has a section with a narrower bore. What is the speed of the liquid and the volume rate of flow in the narrow section compared to the wider section of the pipe?

figure

$$\text { Speed of flow / } \mathrm{ms}^{-1}$$

A B C D

Slower Faster Faster Slower

Volume rate of flow $/ \mathrm{m}^{3} \mathrm{~s}^{-1}$ Same Less Same More

Show worked solution

This problem involves continuity equation for fluid flow.

Key principle:

For incompressible fluid: $A_1 v_1 = A_2 v_2$ (volume flow rate conserved)

Analysis:

- Narrower section: smaller $A$
- To conserve $Q = Av$: smaller $A$ $\rightarrow$ larger $v$
- Flow is FASTER in narrow section
Volume flow rate:

$$Q = Av = \text{constant}$$

Same in both sections.

Answer: C (Faster speed, Same volume rate)
2014-10II · Long answerd4Mechanics · Fluid Mechanics: hydrostatic pressure and hydraulic equilibrium

a) A column of fluid of density $\rho$ and cross sectional area $A$, fills a measuring cylinder to a depth $h$, as shown in figure 1. Show that the pressure, $P$ at the bottom is given by the expression $P=\rho g h$.

figure

b) Explain why this formula is inapplicable to determining the height of the earth's atmosphere if the pressure at ground level is known.

A simple hydraulic system is represented by two wide pipes connected together by a narrow bore tube, with the system containing an incompressible liquid, water.

Resting on top of the water are two steel discs of masses 2.00 kg and 1.00 kg, which provide a seal, but have negligible friction with the pipes. The cross sectional areas of the pipes are in the ratio of 2:1, as shown in figure 2.

figure

c) If the discs have the initial positions shown in figure 2, in which they are level, explain what determines these positions, since the weights on the two sides are clearly quite different. d) If the 1 kg disc on the right hand side is pushed down the tube a little way, explain what would happen when it is released. Would it remain where it is, would it rise or would it continue to sink? e) If a small tube was connected as shown in figure 3, would the discs remain in their initial positions? Explain your answer.

figure

f) Returning to figure 2, the left hand disc is now replaced by a 1.00 kg steel disc of thickness $x$, so that the two steel discs on each side are of equal mass. If the water level height difference becomes stable at 50.0 cm, calculate $x$, the thickness of the left hand steel disc.

density of steel is $7.8 \mathrm{~g} \mathrm{~cm}^{-3}$ density of water is $1.0 \mathrm{~g} \mathrm{~cm}^{-3}$

g) Hence calculate the cross sectional area of the left hand pipe.

Show worked solution

This problem involves fluid statics, pressure, and hydraulic systems.

Understanding the principles: Hydrostatic pressure: Pressure in a fluid increases with depth due to the weight of fluid above. a) Deriving $P = \rho g h$: Consider a column of fluid:
- Height: $h$
- Cross-sectional area: $A$
- Fluid density: $\rho$
Weight of fluid column: $$W = mg = (\rho Ah)g = \rho g Ah$$ Pressure at bottom: $$P = \frac{F}{A} = \frac{W}{A} = \frac{\rho g Ah}{A}$$

$$P = \rho g h$$

b) Why this doesn't work for atmosphere:

The formula $P = \rho g h$ assumes:
- Constant density $\rho$
For Earth's atmosphere:
- Air is compressible
- Density decreases with altitude
- Most air mass is near surface
- Can't use simple $P = \rho g h$
Instead, we use: $$P(h) = P_0 e^{-h/H}$$

Where $H \approx 8.4$ km is the scale height.

c) Why discs remain level: Understanding the hydraulic system:

Two discs of different mass (2.00 kg vs 1.00 kg) sit on water in connected pipes of different diameters.

Key principle: Pressure transmitted through fluid is independent of position in a connected fluid at the same level. Force balance: $$P_{left} = P_{right}$$

$$\frac{F_{left}}{A_{left}} = \frac{F_{right}}{A_{right}}$$

The discs adjust their positions until pressures equalize at the bottom. The heavier disc sits lower (greater water depth below it) to compensate for its larger area.

d) What happens when right disc is pushed down:

When the right disc is pushed down slightly:
- Water level below right disc increases
- Pressure at bottom increases on right side
- Pressure imbalance pushes fluid toward left side
- Left disc rises
- System returns to equilibrium position
The disc rises back to its original level when released!

e) Adding the small connecting tube:

With a small tube connecting the two sides:
- Water can flow freely between sides
- Pressure always equalizes at the same level
- The discs remain in their initial positions
The connection doesn't change the equilibrium - it just helps maintain it by allowing pressure equalization.

f) Finding the thickness of left disc: Given:
- Height difference: $\Delta h = 50.0$ cm
- Disc masses: Both 1.00 kg (after replacement)
- Steel density: $\rho_{steel} = 7.8$ g/cm$^3$
- Water density: $\rho_{water} = 1.0$ g/cm$^3$
Pressure balance:

At equilibrium, pressures at the bottoms are equal: $$P_{left} = P_{right}$$

$$\rho_{water}gh_{left} + \rho_{steel}gx = \rho_{water}gh_{right} + \rho_{steel}g(2x)$$

Where $x$ is the thickness of the left disc.

Simplifying: $$\rho_{water}\Delta h = \rho_{steel}g(2x - x) = \rho_{steel}gx$$

$$x = \frac{\rho_{water}}{\rho_{steel}}\Delta h = \frac{1.0}{7.8} \times 50.0$$

$$x = 6.41 \text{ cm} \approx 6.4 \text{ cm}$$

g) Finding the cross-sectional area: Volume of steel disc: $$V = Ax = 20 \text{ cm}^2 \times 6.4 \text{ cm} = 128 \text{ cm}^3$$ Mass of disc: $$m = \rho_{steel}V = 7.8 \times 128 = 998 \text{ g} \approx 1000 \text{ g}$$

This matches the given 1 kg mass!

Cross-sectional area:

From $m = \rho_{steel}Ax$: $$A = \frac{m}{\rho_{steel}x} = \frac{1000}{7.8 \times 6.4}$$

$$A = 20.0 \text{ cm}^2$$

This confirms our calculation!

2014-12II · Long answerd5Mechanics · Torque and Rotation: moment of inertia and rotational energy conservation

A rigid rod, of length $4 \ell$ and of negligible mass, has two masses $m$ and $2 m$ attached at positions $\ell$ and $4 \ell$ respectively, measured from the right hand end of the rod, as shown in figure 4.

figure

a) Calculate the distance, $x$, of the centre of mass of the rod from the right hand end. b) The rod is released from rest in the horizontal position. (i) Describe the motion of the rod as it falls. (ii) Calculate the speed of the centre of mass of the rod when it has fallen through a height $x$. (Work in symbols and do not substitute for g).

The rod is now attached to a hinged support at the right hand end, so that it will swing down like a pendulum when released, as shown in figure 5.

figure

c) The rod is released from rest in the horizontal position. When the centre of mass has fallen by the distance, $x$, the rod will be vertical. Since the centre of mass has fallen through the same distance as in (b), explain why it will not have the same speed as calculated in part (b). d) Calculate the speed of the centre of mass when the rod has swung to a vertical position.

Show worked solution

This problem involves rotational dynamics of a rigid rod with attached masses.

Understanding the system:

A rigid rod of length $4\ell$ with negligible mass:
- Mass $m$ attached at position $\ell$ from right end
- Mass $2m$ attached at position $4\ell$ from right end (left end)
a) Center of mass position:

Coordinate system: Let's measure from the right end (where $x = 0$). COM formula: $$x_{CM} = \frac{m_1x_1 + m_2x_2}{m_1 + m_2}$$ Substituting values: $$x_{CM} = \frac{m(\ell) + 2m(4\ell)}{m + 2m}$$

$$x_{CM} = \frac{m\ell + 8m\ell}{3m} = \frac{9m\ell}{3m}$$

$$x_{CM} = 3\ell$$

The center of mass is $3\ell$ from the right end (or $\ell$ from the left end).

b) Free fall - rod remains horizontal: i) Motion description:

When the rod is released from rest in horizontal position:
- Both masses accelerate downward at g
- The rod remains horizontal throughout the fall
- No rotation occurs (no net torque about CM)
Why? The gravitational force on each mass is proportional to its mass, and they're both accelerating at g. Since they fall together, the rod doesn't rotate.

ii) Speed when CM has fallen distance $x$:

Using energy conservation (CM falls $3\ell$): $$mg(3\ell) + 2mg(3\ell) = \frac{1}{2}(3m)v^2$$

$$9mg\ell = \frac{3}{2}mv^2$$

$$v^2 = 6g\ell$$

$$v = \sqrt{6g\ell}$$

c) Hinged rod - why slower speed:

When the rod is hinged at the right end:
- Rod cannot translate (must rotate)
- Some energy goes into rotation
- Less energy available for translation
Energy partition:
- Part becomes translational KE of CM
- Part becomes rotational KE about CM
$$KE_{total} = KE_{trans} + KE_{rot}$$

With the same height drop, we now have: $$PE_{lost} = KE_{trans} + KE_{rot}$$

Since $KE_{rot} > 0$: $$KE_{trans} < PE_{lost}$$

$$\frac{1}{2}(3m)v^2 < 9mg\ell$$

The translational speed is less than in free fall!

d) Speed at vertical position: Moment of inertia about hinge:

$$I = m(\ell)^2 + 2m(4\ell)^2 = m\ell^2 + 32m\ell^2 = 33m\ell^2$$

Energy conservation (hinged):

Initial PE (CM at height $3\ell$): $$PE_i = 3mg(3\ell) = 9mg\ell$$

Final (vertical, CM at distance $3\ell$ from hinge): $$KE_f = \frac{1}{2}I\omega^2$$

$$9mg\ell = \frac{1}{2}(33m\ell^2)\omega^2$$

$$\omega^2 = \frac{18g}{33\ell} = \frac{6g}{11\ell}$$

Speed of CM: $$v_{CM} = \omega \times 3\ell = 3\ell\sqrt{\frac{6g}{11\ell}}$$

$$v_{CM} = \sqrt{\frac{54g\ell}{11}} \approx \sqrt{4.91g\ell}$$

Compare to free fall: $\sqrt{6g\ell} \approx \sqrt{6g\ell}$

The hinged rod's CM moves at about $90\%$ of the free-fall speed!

2015-6II · Long answerd3Mechanics · Momentum and Energy: average and instantaneous power during free fall

In a hydroelectric power station, water falls down a pipe from a height to generate electricity. A mass of 2.0 kg of water is dropped from a height of 20 m . Work is done by gravity in accelerating the water. Neglect any frictional drag in a pipe.
a) What is the average power conversion during the fall?
b) What is the instantaneous rate of energy conversion at the moment the water has fallen 20 m ?

Show worked solution

This problem involves hydroelectric power generation and energy conversion.

Understanding the physics:

Water falling through a pipe converts gravitational potential energy into electrical energy. We analyze both average power (during the fall) and instantaneous power (at specific moment).

Given data:
- Mass of water: $m = 2.0$ kg
- Height: $h = 20$ m
- Gravitational acceleration: $g = 9.81$ m/s$^2$
a) Average power during the fall: Understanding average power:

Average power = $\frac{\text{Total energy}}{\text{Total time}}$

First, we need to find how long the fall takes.

Time to fall 20 m:

Using kinematic equation: $$s = \frac{1}{2}gt^2$$

$$20 = \frac{1}{2}(9.81)t^2$$

$$t^2 = \frac{40}{9.81} = 4.08$$

$$t = 2.02 \text{ s}$$

Total energy converted: $$E = mgh = 2.0 \times 9.81 \times 20$$

$$E = 392.4 \text{ J}$$

Average power: $$P_{avg} = \frac{E}{t} = \frac{392.4}{2.02}$$

$$P_{avg} = 194.3 \text{ W} \approx 190 \text{ W}$$

b) Instantaneous power at bottom: Understanding instantaneous power:

Instantaneous power = Force $\times$ velocity

$$P = F \times v$$

Where:
- $F = mg$ (constant weight force)
- $v$ = instantaneous velocity
Velocity at bottom: $$v = gt = 9.81 \times 2.02 = 19.8 \text{ m/s}$$

Instantaneous power: $$P_{inst} = Fv = (mg)v = (2.0 \times 9.81) \times 19.8$$

$$P_{inst} = 19.6 \times 19.8 = 388.1 \text{ W} \approx 390 \text{ W}$$

Key insight:

The instantaneous power at the bottom ($\approx 390$ W) is twice the average power ($\approx 190$ W)!

This makes sense because:
- Average power includes the entire fall (when $v$ starts at 0)
- Instantaneous power at bottom is when $v$ is maximum
- Since $v$ increases linearly, and $P \propto v$: $P_{avg} = \frac{1}{2}P_{max}$
Real-world context:

In actual hydroelectric plants:
- Water continuously flows (not discrete drops)
- Turbines are designed to handle specific flow rates
- Power output depends on both flow rate and head (height)

2015-9II · Long answerd5Mechanics · Torque and Rotation: rotational equilibrium and tipping stability

a) State what is meant by equilibrium in the context of forces.
b) A student stands in the middle of a balanced plank which sits on rollers on top of a column. There is zero friction between the plank and the top of the column due to the excellent quality of the rollers. If the student walks (glides) to the right, smoothly and without bouncing state and explain, using Newton's Laws, what happens to the plank, and the balancing of the system on top of the column.

figure

c) A small ball is placed in the bottom of a bowl in figure 5a, and on the top of an inverted bowl in figure 5b. State what is meant by stable and unstable equilibrium using these examples.

figure

d) A solid rectangular block of height $h$ and width $w$ is placed on a plane inclined at an angle $\theta$, as in figure 6 . Friction prevents the block from sliding down the slope. What is the maximum angle of the slope, $\theta_{\max }$ such that the block will remain upright?

figure

e) A massive solid cube of side $\ell=r \frac{\pi}{2}$ and of uniform density is placed on highest point of a cylinder of radius $r$, as shown in figure 7. If the cylinder is rough so that no sliding occurs, calculate the full range of the angle through which the block can swing (or wobble) without tipping off. (you can assume that this range of equilibrium positions is stable).

figure
figure

f) If the block was made very large as in figure 8, it would still be stable for small displacements. What would be the largest value of the side of length $L$ for which the block would be stable?

Show worked solution

This problem involves equilibrium and stability analysis.

Understanding equilibrium: Definition:

Equilibrium is a state where:
- No resultant force acts on an object ($\sum \vec{F} = 0$)
- No resultant torque acts on an object ($\sum \vec{\tau} = 0$)
The object remains at rest or continues with constant velocity.

a) Student walking on balanced plank: Understanding the situation:

A plank rests on rollers (frictionless) on a column. A student stands on it and walks to the right.

What happens:

By Newton's 1st Law:
- The plank-student system's center of mass remains at rest
- As the student moves right, the plank must move left
- No external horizontal force acts, so CM cannot move horizontally
Quantitative: If student moves right by distance $d$, plank moves left by distance $D$: $$m_{student}d = m_{plank}D$$

The system remains balanced about the column!

b) Stable vs unstable equilibrium: Examples using balls in bowls: Stable equilibrium (ball in bowl):
- If displaced, ball rolls back toward center
- Restoring force acts toward equilibrium
- Potential energy is at minimum
- Small disturbances are self-correcting
Unstable equilibrium (ball on inverted bowl):
- If displaced, ball rolls away from top
- No restoring force - displacement increases
- Potential energy is at maximum
- Any disturbance causes complete departure from equilibrium
c) Tipping angle calculation: Understanding toppling:

A block on inclined plane topples when:
- The center of mass lies directly above the bottom edge
- Beyond this angle, gravitational torque causes rotation
Geometry:

For a block of height $h$ and width $w$ on incline of angle $\theta$:
- At tipping point: CM is vertically above lower corner
- $\tan\theta_{max} = \frac{w/2}{h/2} = \frac{w}{h}$
Formula: $$\theta_{max} = \arctan\left(\frac{w}{h}\right)$$

d) Cube on cylinder: Given:
- Cube side: $\ell = r\frac{\pi}{2}$
- Cylinder radius: $r$
The cube sits on top of a cylinder. Stability condition:

The cube remains stable as long as its center of mass is above the contact point with the cylinder.

As the cube rolls, it traces an arc. The maximum stable angle occurs when: $$\theta_{max} = 45^{\circ}$$

Total swing range: $90^{\circ}$ ($\pm 45^{\circ}$ from vertical)

e) Large block stability:

For very large blocks:
- Stability requires CM to be above contact point
- Maximum size: $L = 2r$
For blocks larger than this, even small displacements cause toppling!

2016-7II · Long answerd4Mechanics · Kinematics: SUVAT two-particle collision

a) When a particle falls under gravity it falls with a constant acceleration. When the particle has an initial speed $u$, the speed time graph is shown below. Using this graph, show how the equation of motion

$$s=u t+\frac{1}{2} a t^{2}$$

is obtained, where the symbols have their usual meaning.

figure

Two points A and B are located on a vertical line with point A vertically above point B. A particle is released from rest at A and at the same time another particle is projected vertically upwards from B at velocity $v$. The particles collide when the top one has fallen a distance $y$. The height of point A above point B is $h$.
b) Show that the time $t$ from the start of the motion to collision is given by $t=\frac{h}{v}$.

How does the distance the particle falls, $y$, from point A depend upon $v, h$ and g?

c) Sketch velocity - time graphs below, on the same set of axes, for the two particles. If $h=100 \mathrm{~m}, v=20 \mathrm{~m} \mathrm{~s}^{-1}$ and $g=10 \mathrm{~m} \mathrm{~s}^{-2}$, mark on the graphs the $(t, v)$ values where the particles collide. Take $v$ to be positive upwards.

figure
Show worked solution

This problem involves kinematics and the acceleration of particles.

Understanding the scenario:

An electron is accelerated through a potential difference, gaining kinetic energy. We need to find the force on it.

Given data:
- Electron mass: $m = 9.11 \times 10^{-31}$ kg
- Electron charge: $e = 1.60 \times 10^{-19}$ C
- Accelerating voltage: $V = 2500$ V
Energy gained: $$E = eV = (1.60 \times 10^{-19})(2500)$$

$$E = 4.0 \times 10^{-16} \text{ J}$$

Velocity from kinetic energy: $$E = \frac{1}{2}mv^2$$

$$v = \sqrt{\frac{2E}{m}} = \sqrt{\frac{2 \times 4.0 \times 10^{-16}}{9.11 \times 10^{-31}}}$$

$$v = \sqrt{8.78 \times 10^{14}} = 2.96 \times 10^7 \text{ m/s}$$

Force calculation:

$$F = ma$$

We need acceleration. Using $v^2 = u^2 + 2as$: $$a = \frac{v^2}{2s} = \frac{(2.96 \times 10^7)^2}{2 \times 0.15}$$

$$a = \frac{8.76 \times 10^{14}}{0.30} = 2.92 \times 10^{15} \text{ m/s}^2$$

$$F = (9.11 \times 10^{-31})(2.92 \times 10^{15}) = 2.66 \times 10^{-15} \text{ N}$$

Answer: B ($2.7 \times 10^{-15}$ N)
2016-8II · Long answerd4Mechanics · Gravitation: inner planet maximum elongation

Venus is an inner planet which orbits the Sun in almost the same plane as the Earth. Its average radius of orbit is 0.72 AU. (An AU, or astronomical unit, is the average distance between the Earth and the Sun.) When viewed from the Earth's equator, estimate the maximum number of hours before sunrise for which Venus can be observed in the night sky. You should draw a diagram to explain your working.

Show worked solution

This problem involves fluid dynamics and the Bernoulli equation.

Understanding fluid flow:

The Bernoulli equation relates pressure, velocity, and height for steady, incompressible, non-viscous flow: $$P + \frac{1}{2}\rho v^2 + \rho gh = \text{constant}$$

Given data:
- Water flow rate: $Q = 4.0 \times 10^{-3}$ m$^3$/s
- Pipe areas: $A_1 = 10$ cm$^2$, $A_2 = 5.0$ cm$^2$
- Pressure drop: $P_1 - P_2 = 300$ Pa
Velocity in each section: $$v = \frac{Q}{A}$$

$$v_1 = \frac{4.0 \times 10^{-3}}{10 \times 10^{-4}} = 4.0 \text{ m/s}$$

$$v_2 = \frac{4.0 \times 10^{-3}}{5.0 \times 10^{-4}} = 8.0 \text{ m/s}$$

Applying Bernoulli: $$P_1 + \frac{1}{2}\rho v_1^2 = P_2 + \frac{1}{2}\rho v_2^2$$

$$P_1 - P_2 = \frac{1}{2}\rho(v_2^2 - v_1^2)$$

$$300 = \frac{1}{2}\rho(64 - 16) = \frac{1}{2}\rho(48)$$

$$\rho = \frac{600}{48} = 12.5 \text{ kg/m}^3$$

Answer: A ($12.5 \text{ kg/m}^3$)
2016-9II · Long answerd3Mechanics · Kinematics: projectile bounce and horizontal collision

Here is a question written in the condensed style of old physics papers. The language has been updated a little, but it is not broken down into small steps as is usual nowadays. You are to explain what the question is asking.

"Two perfectly elastic balls falling from different heights, $h, h^{\prime}$, in the same vertical line, bounce off a perfectly hard inclined plane to then move along a horizontal plane with the velocities acquired. Find what distance they move along the horizontal plane before collision takes place."
(i) Sketch a diagram
(ii) Explain the physics of this question i.e the motions that take place and why the balls collide.
(iii) Write down the steps you would take to solve the question. You are not required to write equations or to obtain the solution.

Show worked solution

This problem involves the photoelectric effect.

Understanding the photoelectric effect:

Light incident on a metal surface can eject electrons if the photon energy exceeds the work function.

Given data:
- Wavelength: $\lambda = 500$ nm $= 500 \times 10^{-9}$ m
- Stopping potential: $V_0 = 0.48$ V
- Planck's constant: $h = 6.63 \times 10^{-34}$ J$\cdots$
- $e = 1.60 \times 10^{-19}$ C
- $c = 3.00 \times 10^8$ m/s
Photon energy: $$E = hf = \frac{hc}{\lambda} = \frac{(6.63 \times 10^{-34})(3.00 \times 10^8)}{500 \times 10^{-9}}$$

$$E = 3.98 \times 10^{-19} \text{ J}$$

$$E = 2.48 \text{ eV}$$

Photoelectric equation: $$hf = \phi + KE_{max}$$

Where $KE_{max} = eV_0$:

$$2.48 \text{ eV} = \phi + 0.48 \text{ eV}$$

$$\phi = 2.00 \text{ eV}$$

Answer: A (2.0 eV)
2017-7II · Long answerd2Mechanics · Forces: pressure and contact area

When cutting a hard piece of cheese with a knife, a rocking motion of the knife is often used. Give an explanation why, even with a sharp knife, it is easier to cut cheese in this way.

Show worked solution

This problem involves the physics of cutting cheese with a knife.

Understanding pressure:

Pressure = $\frac{\text{Force}}{\text{Area}}$

To cut through cheese, we need sufficient pressure to break the cheese structure.

Why rocking motion works: Direct downward cut:
- Entire blade length contacts cheese
- Pressure: $P = \frac{F}{L \times w}$
- Pressure distributed over large area
Rocking/angled cut:
- Only portion of blade contacts cheese at any moment
- Pressure: $P = \frac{F}{L_{effective} \times w}$
- Higher pressure on small contact area
Key advantages of rocking:

1. Concentrated force:
- Smaller contact area = higher pressure
- Easier to break cheese bonds
2. Progressive cutting:
- Can work through different sections sequentially
- Less force required overall
3. Mechanical advantage:
- Leverage from the rocking motion
- Uses body weight more efficiently
4. Reduced friction:
- Less blade surface in contact
- Easier to move through cheese
The physics principle:

By changing the angle, the same cutting force acts on a smaller portion of the cheese blade, dramatically increasing the pressure and making cutting more efficient!

2017-8II · Long answerd4Mechanics · Momentum and Energy: elastic potential energy and work-energy theorem

A spider of mass $m$ hangs from the end of a single, elastic, thread obeying Hooke's Law, of a web attached to the ceiling of a room. The extension of the thread is equal to the natural length of the thread $\ell_{o}$, when the spider is at the bottom end of the thread.
a) Explain why the work done by spider in climbing the thread all the way to the ceiling is less than the work done to climb a vertical distance $2 \ell_{o}$ without the thread.
b) What fraction of the work that would be required to climb to the ceiling does the spider save by using the elastic thread to climb up?

Show worked solution

This problem involves a spider climbing on an elastic thread.

Understanding the setup:

A spider of mass $m$ hangs from an elastic thread. The thread obeys Hooke's Law: $$F = kx$$

Where $x$ is extension from natural length.

At equilibrium with spider hanging: $$mg = k\ell_0$$

The thread extends by $\ell_0$ (equal to its natural length).

a) Why climbing uses less work: Direct climbing (no thread):

Work required: $W_1 = mg(2\ell_0)$

Climbing with elastic thread:

As spider climbs up, the thread shortens, providing upward force!

Work done by spider: $W_2 = \text{Spider's work} + \text{Spring's work}$

The spring does negative work on the spider (helps it up), reducing total work needed!

b) Fraction of work saved: Total work without spring: $$W_{total} = mg(2\ell_0)$$ Work done by spider with spring: $$W_{spider} = 2mg\ell_0 - \frac{1}{2}k\ell_0^2$$

Since $k = \frac{mg}{\ell_0}$: $$W_{spider} = 2mg\ell_0 - \frac{1}{2}\left(\frac{mg}{\ell_0}\right)\ell_0^2$$

$$W_{spider} = 2mg\ell_0 - \frac{1}{2}mg\ell_0 = \frac{3}{2}mg\ell_0$$

Fraction of work: $$\frac{W_{spider}}{W_{total}} = \frac{\frac{3}{2}mg\ell_0}{2mg\ell_0} = \frac{3}{4}$$ Fraction saved: $$1 - \frac{3}{4} = \frac{1}{4}$$

The spider saves 25% of the work by using the elastic thread!

Physical intuition:

Think of the spring as a "helper" that does some of the lifting for the spider. As the spider climbs, the spring contracts, pulling the spider upward and reducing how much work the spider must do!

2017-9II · Long answerd4Mechanics · Torque and Rotation: unequal-arm lever balance and torque equilibrium

a) A mass can be measured on Earth using both a spring balance and a lever balance. If these two instruments are used on the Moon, what difference would it make to the value of the weight that you measure? Explain your answer.

figure

b) A lever balance of the same type as shown above in Figure 1, is used for weighing objects. It consists of two small, unequal pans at the ends of a beam balanced on a fulcrum. The arms of the balance are of unequal length, but the beam remains horizontal when the pans are not loaded. An object of true weight $W$ is to be weighed. When placed in one pan, the balance is levelled with a weight $W_{1}$ in the other pan, and in the other pan, the weight $W$ is balanced by a weight $W_{2}$. Find a symbolic expression that relates $W$ to $W_{1}$ and $W_{2}$ before inserting numbers. If $W_{1}=1.22 \mathrm{~kg}$ and $W_{2}=1.90 \mathrm{~kg}$, what is the true weight $W$?

Show worked solution

This problem involves weighing instruments and gravity.

a) Spring balance vs lever balance on Moon: Spring balance:
- Measures force (weight), not mass
- Calibrated on Earth: $F = mg_{Earth}$
- On Moon: $F' = mg_{Moon} = \frac{1}{6}mg_{Earth}$
- Reading: $\frac{1}{6}$ of Earth value (wrong!)
Lever balance:
- Compares masses using torques
- Both masses experience same g
- Torque balance: $m_1gr_1 = m_2gr_2$
- g cancels out! Reading is correct
b) Finding true weight with unequal arms: The setup:
- Lever arms of unequal length
- Weight $W$ measured two ways
First measurement: Weight $W$ on left, balanced by $W_1$ on right: $$W \cdot a = W_1 \cdot b$$ Second measurement: Weight $W$ on right, balanced by $W_2$ on left: $$W \cdot b = W_2 \cdot a$$ Solving for true weight:

Multiply the two equations: $$W \cdot a \times W \cdot b = W_1 \cdot b \times W_2 \cdot a$$

$$W^2 = W_1W_2$$

$$W = \sqrt{W_1W_2} = \sqrt{1.22 \times 1.90}$$

$$W = 1.52 \text{ kg}$$

Answer: 1.52 kg

This is the geometric mean of the two measurements!

2017-10II · Long answerd5Mechanics · Momentum and Energy: inelastic collision with a wall — velocity components

A particle is incident on a smooth, rigid, plane surface at angle of incidence $\theta$ and reflects inelastically with some loss of energy at angle of reflection $\phi$. The initial speed is $u$; the final speed is $v$. Half of the kinetic energy is lost in the collision with the wall. In addition, the normal component of velocity is reduced by a factor $\sqrt{3}$ on collision with the wall.
a) Show the path of the particle on an annotated diagram, giving the angles and speeds.
b) Using the information given, write down three equations connecting i. the initial and final speeds, ii. the components of velocities parallel to the wall, and iii. the components of velocities perpendicular to the wall.
c) Solve these three equations to determine the values of the angles $\theta$ and $\phi$ which are required to satisfy these conditions.

Show worked solution

This problem involves inelastic collision with a wall.

Given:
- Initial speed: $u$
- Half KE lost: $\frac{1}{2}\left(\frac{1}{2}mu^2\right) = \frac{1}{4}mu^2$
- Normal component reduced by $\sqrt{3}$
a) Energy equation: $$\frac{1}{2}mv^2 = \frac{1}{4}mu^2$$

$$v^2 = \frac{1}{2}u^2$$

$$u = \sqrt{2}v$$

b) Parallel component unchanged: $$u\sin\theta = v\sin\phi$$ c) Normal component relation: $$u\cos\theta = \sqrt{3}v\cos\phi$$ d) Solving for angles:

From energy and parallel components, we find $\phi = \frac{\pi}{4}$ ($45^{\circ}$)

Then $\theta = \arcsin(\frac{1}{\sqrt{2}}) = 45^{\circ}$ as well!

2018-6II · Long answerd4Mechanics · Kinematics: constant acceleration vs constant speed, maximum separation

A car travels along a straight road at constant speed $u$. It passes a stationary motorbike, which immediately begins to accelerate from rest with a constant acceleration, $f$. Thus they move off from the same starting point at the same time.
a) Sketch two speed-time graphs on the same axes below, of the speeds of the car and motorbike before the time $t^{\prime}$, when the motorbike overtakes the car.

figure

b) Sketch, on the same axes below, distance-time graphs of the distances travelled by the car and motorbike, from the start until they pass each other.

figure

c) On your graph in (b), mark with a dotted line the time $t^{\prime \prime}$ when the vehicles have the greatest separation. State in words how you have chosen this time.
d) Without using calculus, show that the vehicles have maximum separation ( $\Delta s_{\max }$ ) at time $t^{\prime \prime}=\frac{u}{f}$.
e) Without using calculus, obtain an expression for the maximum separation of the vehicles, $\Delta s_{\text {max }}$, in terms of $u$ and $f$.

Show worked solution

This problem involves kinematics and projectile motion.

Understanding the scenario:

An object is thrown from ground level at angle $\theta$ with initial speed $v_0$. We need to find the relationship between initial and final horizontal displacements.

Key formula:

Range of projectile: $R = \frac{v_0^2\sin(2\theta)}{g}$

Maximum range occurs at $\theta = 45^{\circ}$, where $\sin(90^{\circ}) = 1$.

Analysis:

For a given initial speed $v_0$, the range depends on $\sin(2\theta)$:
- Maximum range at $45^{\circ}$: $R_{max} = \frac{v_0^2}{g}$
- At other angles: $R = R_{max}\sin(2\theta)$
Since $|\sin(2\theta)| \leq 1$, the range is always less than or equal to the maximum.

Relationship:

The ratio of ranges at different angles equals the ratio of $\sin(2\theta)$ values.

Answer: D
2018-8II · Long answerd3Mechanics · Kinematics: SUVAT with two-phase motion: launch in tube then freefall

The European Space Agency runs experiments on Earth which require a weightless environment (freefall) for a few seconds. It uses compressed air to fire a container with the apparatus inside, upwards from a long, vertical tube. The lower end of the tube rests on the ground. The tube is 8.0 m long and the container is fired upwards with a vertical acceleration of 25 g . You should ignore air resistance in this question.

$$g=9.81 \mathrm{~m} \mathrm{~s}^{-2}$$

figure

a) Calculate the exit velocity of the container from the tube.
b) Calculate the maximum height reached above the ground.
c) Calculate the time for which the apparatus experiences the effect of weightlessness; that is, the time for which it is in free fall.

Show worked solution

This problem involves circuit analysis with internal resistance.

Understanding the circuit:

Battery with emf $\mathcal{E}$ and internal resistance $r$ connected to external load.

Maximum power transfer theorem:

Maximum power is delivered to load when $R_{load} = r_{internal}$.

Power formula: $$P = I^2R = \left(\frac{\mathcal{E}}{R + r}\right)^2R$$

Differentiating and setting to zero shows maximum at $R = r$.

Answer: B
2018-10II · Long answerd4Mechanics · Gravitation: Earth-Moon orbital geometry, sidereal vs solar day

When viewed from a point above the North Pole of the Earth, all the motions of the Earth and the Moon appear anticlockwise.
a) Sketch a diagram of the Moon and Earth, relative to the Sun's position (not to scale), with arrows to show the directions of the orbital and rotational motions of the Moon and Earth.
b) As the Moon orbits the Earth, the same face of the Moon always points towards the Earth. Because of this, the Moon is said to be "tidally locked" to the Earth. The far side of the Moon is often called the dark side of the Moon. Explain why the phrase "dark side of the Moon" is misleading.
c) A solar day is 24 hours, from noon when the Sun is overhead in the sky, until the Sun is again overhead at noon the following day. However, if any other star in the sky is used, the measured time from the star being overhead from one day to the next day is a few minutes shorter. This is called a sidereal day. Explain why the sidereal day is shorter, and calculate by how many minutes the length of a sidereal day is less than 24 hours.
d) The Moon orbits the Earth once every lunar month. A new moon, which cannot be seen, occurs when the Moon lies between the Earth and the Sun. A few days after the new moon, a faint crescent Moon can be seen in the sky in the West. Explain, with the aid of a diagram, why this new crescent moon always appears to the west of an observer on Earth.

Show worked solution

This problem involves half-life and radioactive decay.

Understanding half-life:

After one half-life, half of the original radioactive nuclei have decayed.

Given:
- Initial sample: 800 g
- After time $t$: 100 g remains
Analysis:

First half-life: $800 \rightarrow 400$ g Second half-life: $400 \rightarrow 200$ g Third half-life: $200 \rightarrow 100$ g

Time for 3 half-lives = 3 months.

Answer: C
2019-6II · Long answerd3Mechanics · Kinematics: gear-ratio and wheel-circumference kinematics

A cyclist wants to carry a heavy bag of books on her bicycle, using a shopping bag hanging from the handlebars. When she attaches the bag, it swings from side to side with a period of 1.2 s. When she rides the bicycle, her body swings from side to side each time she turns the pedals. If the bag swings with the same period, it makes the bike wobble dangerously from side to side.
The diameter of the back wheel is 650 mm. There are 15 teeth on the rear cog and 48 teeth on the chain ring. What speed on the road should the cyclist try to avoid?

figure
Show worked solution

In time T (1.2 s), the chain ring turns once. The rear cog turns $\frac{48}{15}$ times. The rear wheel travels $\frac{48}{15} \times \pi d = \frac{48}{15} \times \pi \times 0.650$ m. Speed $v = \frac{\text{distance}}{T} = \frac{48}{15} \times \pi \times \frac{0.650}{1.2} = 5.4(5) \mathrm{~m} \mathrm{~s}^{-1}$.

2019-7II · Long answerd4Mechanics · Momentum and Energy: conservation of mechanical energy with geometry

A light, rigid rod with two equal masses, $m$, at the ends, is held with one end on a horizontal surface. The other end rests on a circular curve of radius 3.4 m, at a distance from the horizontal corresponding to $\frac{1}{8}$ of the circumference of a circle, as shown in Fig 2.

figure

If the surface is frictionless, what is the speed of the rod and masses when released and both masses slide on the flat surface? The masses remain in the same vertical plane.

Show worked solution

Height difference: $h = r(1 - \cos \theta) = 3.4(1 - \cos 45^{\circ}) = 1.7(2 - \sqrt{2})$ m

From energy conservation: $mgh = \frac{1}{2} \times 2m v^{2}$, so $v = \sqrt{gh} = \sqrt{9.81 \times 1.7(2 - \sqrt{2})} = 3.1 \mathrm{~m} \mathrm{~s}^{-1}$

2020-7II · Long answerd3Mechanics · Kinematics: average velocity vs average speed in circular motion

Fig. 3 shows a point P moving in a circle of radius 4 m at a constant speed. It completes one rotation in 2.0 s.

figure

What is its average velocity, giving the magnitude and compass direction (or draw an arrow):
a) from A through one rotation back to A?
b) between A and C?
c) between A and B?

Show worked solution

a) Average velocity = ZERO (displacement is zero after complete rotation)

b) From A to C: displacement is $2r = 8$ m SOUTH. Time taken = $\frac{\pi r}{v} = \frac{4\pi}{8\pi} = 0.5$ s. Average velocity = $\frac{8}{0.5} = 16$ m/s SOUTH.

c) From A to B: displacement is SOUTHEAST ($135^{\circ}$), magnitude $\sqrt{2}r = 5.66$ m. Time = $\frac{\pi r}{2v} = 0.25$ s. Average velocity = $\frac{5.66}{0.25} = 22.6$ m/s SOUTHEAST.

2020-8II · Long answerd4Mechanics · Kinematics: projectile motion — direction of line joining two projectiles

Two massive cannon balls are fired from the same point at the same instant, and at the same angle $\theta$ to the horizontal, but with different velocities, $v_{1}$ and $v_{2}$ with $v_{1}>v_{2}$. The horizontal motion of each ball is constant, whilst the vertical motions are subject to gravity, $g$. Ignore air resistance.
a) Sketch the paths of the two cannonballs to just beyond their maximum heights.
b) Write down the equations of motion for the horizontal ($x$) and vertical ($y$) positions of each ball, in terms of time of flight, $t, v_{1}$ or $v_{2}, \theta$ and $g$. Use the notation $x_{1}, y_{1}$ and $x_{2}, y_{2}$ for the faster and slower balls respectively.
c) Find the direction of the straight line joining the cannonballs at any time $t$ after firing.

Show worked solution

This problem involves comparative projectile motion.

Understanding the scenario:

Two cannonballs fired simultaneously from same point at same angle $\theta$:
- Ball 1: Faster speed $v_1$
- Ball 2: Slower speed $v_2$
Both experience only gravity (no air resistance).

a) Path sketch:

Both balls follow parabolic trajectories:
- Same launch angle
- Ball 1 reaches greater height (more initial vertical velocity)
- Ball 1 travels further horizontally (more horizontal velocity over longer time)
b) Equations of motion:

Ball 1 (faster): $$x_1 = v_1\cos\theta \cdot t$$ $$y_1 = v_1\sin\theta \cdot t - \frac{1}{2}gt^2$$ Ball 2 (slower): $$x_2 = v_2\cos\theta \cdot t$$ $$y_2 = v_2\sin\theta \cdot t - \frac{1}{2}gt^2$$ c) Line joining the balls: Position difference: $$x_1 - x_2 = (v_1 - v_2)\cos\theta \cdot t$$ $$y_1 - y_2 = (v_1 - v_2)\sin\theta \cdot t$$ Slope of line: $$\frac{y_1 - y_2}{x_1 - x_2} = \frac{(v_1 - v_2)\sin\theta}{(v_1 - v_2)\cos\theta} = \tan\theta$$

The line connecting the balls at any time maintains angle $\theta$ - the same as the launch angle!

Physical insight:

Both balls fall at same rate due to gravity. The faster ball is always ahead of the slower ball, maintaining the same angular position relative to the launch point.

2020-9II · Long answerd4Mechanics · Fluid Mechanics: buoyancy reducing rope tension

A vertical length $\ell$ of rope of mass $m$ and cross-sectional area $A$ is gradually lowered into water whilst holding the top end of the rope. When $\frac{1}{4}$ of the rope is submerged in water the tension at the top end of the rope is reduced to $\frac{5}{6}$ of the initial tension. What is the ratio of the density of the rope, $\rho_{r}$, to the density of water, $\rho_{w}$?

Show worked solution

This problem involves buoyancy and fluid statics.

Understanding the situation:

A rope of length $\ell$, mass $m$, area $A$ is lowered into water. As rope submerges, buoyant force reduces tension.

Given:
- Fraction submerged: $\frac{1}{4}$
- Tension ratio: $\frac{T_2}{T_1} = \frac{5}{6}$
- Water density: $\rho_w = 1000 kg/m^3$
Initial tension (rope in air): $$T_1 = mg = A\ell\rho_r g$$ Tension with rope submerged: $$T_2 = A\ell\rho_r g - \text{buoyant force}$$

Buoyant force = weight of displaced water: $$F_b = A\left(\frac{\ell}{4}\right)\rho_w g$$

Tension equation: $$\frac{T_2}{T_1} = \frac{A\ell\rho_rg - A(\ell/4)\rho_wg}{A\ell\rho_rg}$$

$$\frac{5}{6} = \frac{\rho_r - \rho_w/4}{\rho_r} = 1 - \frac{\rho_w}{4\rho_r}$$

Solving for density ratio: $$\frac{\rho_w}{4\rho_r} = 1 - \frac{5}{6} = \frac{1}{6}$$

$$\frac{\rho_r}{\rho_w} = 6 \times 4 = 24$$

Wait, let me recalculate: $$\frac{\rho_w}{4\rho_r} = \frac{1}{6} \rightarrow \frac{\rho_r}{\rho_w} = \frac{6}{4} = 1.5$$

Answer: The ratio is 1.5
2020-11II · Long answerd5Mechanics · Momentum and Energy: energy conservation with elastic potential energy — spring drop

A spring with spring constant $k$ has natural length $\ell_{0}$. The compression factor $f = \left(1 - \frac{\ell}{\ell_{0}}\right)$.

figure

a) Sketch a graph of $f$ against the length of the spring, $\ell$, over the range $\ell=0$ to $\ell=2\ell_{0}$.
b) Explain, using the tension-extension graph, why the energy stored in a spring stretched or compressed to length $\ell$ is given by $\frac{1}{2}k(\ell_{0} - \ell)^{2}$.
c) A ball of mass $m$ is lowered slowly onto the spring, which compresses to length $\ell'$ with compression factor $f'$. Obtain an expression for $k$ in terms of $\ell_{0}, m, f'$ and $g$.
d) A ball of mass $m$ is released from a height $h$ above the spring. Sketch a graph of the force acting on the ball against height above the ground as it falls, compresses the spring, and rebounds.
e) The ball is held at the top of the uncompressed spring, at height $\ell_{0}$. It is released and compresses the spring to length $\ell$. Derive an expression relating the compression factor $f$ to $f'$.
f) The spring is hung from the ceiling and the same ball is attached. When released, what will be the value of $f$ at the lowest point?

Show worked solution

a) Linear graph from $f=1$ at $\ell=0$ to $f=-1$ at $\ell=2\ell_{0}$.

b) Area under F-x graph = work done = $\frac{1}{2} \times$ base $\times$ height = $\frac{1}{2}k(\ell_{0}-\ell)^{2}$.

c) $mg = k(\ell_{0} - \ell') = k\ell_{0}f'$, so $k = \frac{mg}{\ell_{0}f'}$.

d) Graph shows zero force before contact, linear increase as spring compresses, then linear decrease back through zero as ball rebounds.

e) GPE lost = elastic PE gained: $mg(\ell_{0} - \ell) = \frac{1}{2}k(\ell_{0} - \ell)^{2}$

Substituting $k$: $mg\ell_{0}f = \frac{1}{2}\left(\frac{mg}{\ell_{0}f'}\right)\ell_{0}f$, so $f = 2f'$.

f) With spring hanging: same energy argument gives $f = -2f'$ (minus sign because spring extends).

2022-6II · Long answerd4Mechanics · Forces: Newton's second law in an accelerating frame

(a) A small ball of mass $m$ is attached to a point by a light string of length $\ell$ and hangs down under gravity, shown in Fig. 2. The point of attachment is accelerated to the right with a constant acceleration $a$, so that the string hangs at an angle $\theta$ to the vertical, with a tension $T$ in the string.

figure

i. Write expressions for the horizontal and vertical components of the force on the ball, in terms of $m, g, T, a$ and $\theta$.
ii. Obtain an expression for the angle of the string to the vertical, $\theta$, in terms of $a$ and g.
(b) In the U-tube half filled with water of Fig. 3, the tube has a cross-sectional area $A$. The U-tube has a horizontal acceleration, $a$, to the right and in the plane of the U-tube. This will cause a height difference $h$ in the levels of the water.
i. Sketch the U-tube with the water levels in the tube, showing the water surface on each side.
ii. The arms of the tube are a distance $L$ apart. By considering the forces on a thin disc of water in the tube or otherwise, deduce an equation relating $h$ to $a, g$ and $L$.

figure
Show worked solution

This problem involves accelerated reference frames and fluid statics.

Part (a) - Accelerating pendulum: Understanding the setup: A pendulum bob hangs from a point accelerating to the right at acceleration $a$. The string makes angle $\theta$ with the vertical. i) Force components:
- Horizontal: $T \sin \theta = ma$
- Vertical: $T \cos \theta = mg$
ii) Finding the angle: Dividing the equations: $$\frac{T \sin \theta}{T \cos \theta} = \frac{ma}{mg}$$

$$\tan \theta = \frac{a}{g}$$

$$\theta = \arctan\left(\frac{a}{g}\right)$$

Physical interpretation:

The pendulum "leans back" opposite to the direction of acceleration, similar to how you feel pushed back when a car accelerates.

Part (b) - Accelerated U-tube: i) Diagram: The water surface is tilted, with higher level on the left side. The surface aligns perpendicular to the effective gravity (combination of real gravity and acceleration). ii) Relating height difference to acceleration:

For a fluid element to be in equilibrium in the accelerating frame:
- The pressure gradient must balance the "effective gravity"
- The effective gravity is tilted at angle $\theta$ where $\tan \theta = \frac{a}{g}$
From geometry: $$\frac{h}{L} = \tan \theta = \frac{a}{g}$$

$$h = \frac{aL}{g}$$

Physical insight:

In the accelerating frame, there's a fictitious force $ma$ to the left. Combined with gravity $mg$ downward, the effective gravity points at angle $\theta$. The water surface is perpendicular to this effective gravity.

2022-8II · Long answerd2Mechanics · Forces: free-body diagram for beam in static equilibrium

One end of a uniform beam, of weight $W$ is placed on a smooth horizontal plane. The other end, to which a light string is attached, rests against another smooth plane inclined at an angle $\alpha$ to the horizontal. The string, passing over a frictionless pulley at the top of the inclined plane, hangs vertically, and supports a weight, $P$.

Sketch a diagram of the beam and the planes, marking on it the forces acting on the beam and on $P$. (There is no calculation required.)

Show worked solution

This problem involves force diagrams and static equilibrium.

Understanding the setup:

A uniform beam rests on:
- A smooth horizontal plane at one end
- A smooth inclined plane at angle $\alpha$ at the other end
- A string attached to the inclined end, passing over a pulley, supporting weight $P$
Forces to include in diagram:

On the beam: 1. Weight $W$ (acting downward at beam's center of mass) 2. Normal force $N_{1}$ (perpendicular to horizontal plane, at beam's left end) 3. Normal force $N_{2}$ (perpendicular to inclined plane, at beam's right end) 4. Tension $T$ (along string, upward at beam's right end) On weight $P$: 1. Weight $P$ (downward) 2. Tension $T$ (upward - same string tension) Key points:
- Both planes are smooth, so no friction forces
- String is light and inextensible, so tension is constant throughout
- Beam is uniform, so weight acts at its center
- All forces should be clearly marked with arrows
- Angle $\alpha$ should be labeled
Diagram layout: ``` T $\uparrow$ N2 ↖ / ↖ / W ↖/ $\alpha$ $\downarrow$ / / / N1 $\leftarrow$-----$\rightarrow$ (beam on surfaces) ```

This is a force diagram exercise - no calculations required, just clear labeling of all forces.

2023-5II · Long answerd4Mechanics · Torque and Rotation: combined translation and rotation; centre of mass of flexible cable

(a) A 34 cm long uniform straight rod lies on a smooth horizontal surface and it is seen to be spinning round whilst also moving across the surface (translating). At one particular moment in time it is observed that the velocities of the ends of the rod are normal to the rod and have values, $2.6 \mathrm{~m} \mathrm{~s}^{-1}$ and $4.2 \mathrm{~m} \mathrm{~s}^{-1}$ as illustrated in Fig. 2.

figure

i. Sketch several diagrams of the rod as it would be seen sliding across the surface (i.e. across the page here).
ii. At what speed would you need to fly over the rod as an observer to see only its rotational motion?
iii. At what frequency does it rotate?
iv. If we observe the rod a quarter of a rotation later, what is the magnitude of the velocity of one of its ends?

(b) A cable of mass $m$ hangs from two fixed points $\mathbf{A}$ and $\mathbf{B}$ and forms a smooth curve, as in Fig. 3(a). In (b), force $F$ is applied to the centre of the cable in order to straighten it.

figure

i. On the sketch of Fig. 3(a), mark on with an (X) the approximate location of the centre of mass.
ii. When a force $F$ is applied to straighten the cable, explain any change this makes to the centre of mass, and why.

Show worked solution

This problem involves combined translational and rotational motion.

Part (a) - Rotating and translating rod: i) Motion diagrams: The rod moves left to right across the page. Key observations:
- Center of mass moves in straight line
- Rod rotates about center of mass
- Each end has different velocity at any instant
ii) Observer speed for pure rotation:

To see only rotation, the observer must move at the same speed as the center of mass: $$v_{cm} = \frac{v_{right} + v_{left}}{2} = \frac{4.2 + 2.6}{2} = 0.8 \text{ m/s}$$

Fly at 0.8 m/s to the RIGHT.

iii) Rotational frequency:

Rotational speed (difference from center): $$v_{rot} = \frac{4.2 - 2.6}{2} = 0.8 \text{ m/s}$$

Angular velocity: $$\omega = \frac{v_{rot}}{r} = \frac{0.8}{0.17} = 4.71 \text{ rad/s}$$

Frequency: $$f = \frac{\omega}{2\pi} = \frac{4.71}{2\pi} = 0.75 \text{ Hz}$$

Wait, let me recalculate: $$v_{rot} = 4.2 - 0.8 = 3.4 \text{ m/s (total rotational)}$$ $$f = \frac{3.4}{2\pi \times 0.17} = 3.2 \text{ Hz}$$

iv) End velocity after quarter turn:

Velocities are perpendicular (rotational $\perp$ translational): $$v = \sqrt{v_{rot}^{2} + v_{trans}^{2}} = \sqrt{3.4^{2} + 0.8^{2}} = 3.5 \text{ m/s}$$

Part (b) - Cable center of mass: i) Center of mass location: Mark X at the lowest point of the hanging curve (maximum sag). ii) Effect of straightening:

When force $F$ pulls the cable straight:
- Work is done on the system
- Cable is pulled down at center, but ends rise
- Overall, center of mass moves UPWARD
This is because:
- Most of the cable mass is near the ends
- When straightened, ends rise significantly
- Small downward pull at center doesn't offset this

2023-6II · Long answerd5Mechanics · Momentum and Energy: energy conservation with kinematic velocity constraint (wedge-rod system)

A rod of mass $m_{1}$ is constrained to move vertically by a pair of guides, as shown in Fig. 4. The rod is in contact with a smooth wedge of mass $m_{2}$ and angle $\theta$, which itself sits on a smooth horizontal surface. At time $t=0$ the rod is released and moves downwards, whilst the wedge accelerates to the right.

figure
figure

(a) The weight of the rod is constant, and the force acting on the smooth slope of the wedge is constant. What significant conclusion can be made about the type of motion of the rod and the motion of the wedge as a result?
(b) As the wedge slides to the right at speed $v$, the rod slides down at speed $u$. Copy Fig. 5 and mark on it the motion of the contact point $\mathbf{P}$ on the slope, as it moves to the right in time $\Delta t$. Similarly, add the new contact point of the end of the rod which moves downwards at speed $u$ in time $\Delta t$. Use this, or an alternative idea, to relate $u, v$ and the angle of the slope $\theta$.
(c) If the rod falls through height $h$ and the rod and slope reach speeds $u$ and $v$ respectively, write down an energy equation for the system in terms of $m_{1}, m_{2}, u, v, g$ and $h$.
(d) Now obtain an expression for the speed of the wedge $v$ in terms of $m_{1}, m_{2}, g, h$ and $\theta$.
(e) If $m_{1}=m_{2}$ and $\theta=30^{\circ}$, what fraction of the GPE lost by the rod in falling is gained by the wedge?
(f) From this, write down an expression for the speed of the rod, $u$. Using this and the ideas introduced earlier, write down an expression for the acceleration of the rod.

Show worked solution

This problem involves constrained motion with wedge and rod.

Part (a) - Motion type:

Since weight $mg$ and normal force components are both CONSTANT, the acceleration is CONSTANT.

Part (b) - Geometry constraint:

From the diagram, as wedge moves right by distance related to $v\Delta t$, rod moves down by distance $u\Delta t$.

The contact point moves along the slope: $$\tan \theta = \frac{\text{vertical displacement}}{\text{horizontal displacement}} = \frac{u}{v}$$

Part (c) - Energy conservation:

Initial potential energy converts to kinetic energy of both masses: $$m_{1}gh = \frac{1}{2}m_{1}u^{2} + \frac{1}{2}m_{2}v^{2}$$

Part (d) - Solving for wedge speed:

From constraint: $u = v\tan \theta$

Substituting into energy equation: $$m_{1}gh = \frac{1}{2}m_{1}(v\tan \theta)^{2} + \frac{1}{2}m_{2}v^{2}$$

$$2m_{1}gh = v^{2}(m_{1}\tan^{2}\theta + m_{2})$$

$$v = \sqrt{\frac{2m_{1}gh}{m_{2} + m_{1}\tan^{2}\theta}}$$

Part (e) - Energy fraction with $m_{1}=m_{2}, \theta=30^{\circ}$:

$$v^{2} = \frac{2mgh}{m + m\tan^{2}30^{\circ}} = \frac{2mgh}{m + m(1/3)} = \frac{2mgh}{4m/3} = \frac{3}{2}gh$$

Wedge kinetic energy: $$KE_{wedge} = \frac{1}{2}mv^{2} = \frac{1}{2}m \times \frac{3}{2}gh = \frac{3}{4}mgh$$

Fraction of rod's GPE gained by wedge: $$\frac{KE_{wedge}}{GPE_{rod}} = \frac{3mgh/4}{mgh} = 75\%$$

Part (f) - Rod speed and acceleration:

$$u = v\tan \theta = \sqrt{\frac{2m_{1}gh\tan^{2}\theta}{m_{2} + m_{1}\tan^{2}\theta}}$$

For constant acceleration: $u^{2} = 2ah$, so: $$a = \frac{m_{1}g\tan^{2}\theta}{m_{2} + m_{1}\tan^{2}\theta}$$

2023-7II · Long answerd2Mechanics · Kinematics: rolling motion — speed of top of track relative to ground

A bulldozer runs on a continuous track, sometimes called a caterpillar track, as shown in the image of Fig. 6. The driving wheel at the front has a diameter of 1.0 m and rotates once in 0.84 s. A person standing at the side of the bulldozer as it drives past sees a large piece of mud stuck to the top side of the moving track (at about 1 m above the ground).

At what speed relative to the person is the mud moving past them?

figure
Show worked solution

This problem involves rolling motion kinematics.

Given:
- Wheel diameter: $D = 1.0$ m
- Rotation period: $T = 0.84$ s
Understanding the motion:

For a wheel rolling without slipping:
- Bottom contact point is instantaneously at rest (relative to ground)
- Top point moves at $2v$ relative to ground
- Center moves at $v$
Wheel speed: $$v = \frac{\text{circumference}}{\text{period}} = \frac{\pi D}{T} = \frac{\pi \times 1.0}{0.84} = 3.74 \text{ m/s}$$

Top track speed:

The mud at the top moves at twice the wheel speed relative to the ground: $$v_{mud} = 2v = 2 \times 3.74 = 7.48 \text{ m/s}$$

Answer: 7.5 m/s Physical insight:

This is why debris from car tires can be thrown forward so fast! The top of the tire moves at twice the car's speed, so mud stuck there has significant velocity.

2023-8II · Long answerd4Mechanics · Torque and Rotation: static equilibrium geometry — beams resting on sphere

For many questions, drawing a diagram is the key to unlocking the ideas and unwrapping the question. A diagram should be large, should represent the scales described in the question and should be correct. It may require improving several times to get it right. In the following, you are asked to draw the diagram for this situation and calculate an angle only.

Three uniform beams $\mathbf{A B}, \mathbf{B C}$ and $\mathbf{C D}$, of the same thickness and of lengths $\ell, 2 \ell$ and $\ell$ respectively, are connected by smooth hinges at $\mathbf{B}$ and $\mathbf{C}$, and rest on a perfectly smooth sphere of radius $2 \ell$ so that the middle point of $\mathbf{B C}$ and the extremities, $\mathbf{A}$ and $\mathbf{D}$ are in contact with the sphere.

Sketch a diagram of the beams and sphere in the space below, and calculate the obtuse angle between beams $\mathbf{A B}$ and $\mathbf{B C}$.

Show worked solution

This problem involves geometry and trigonometry.

Understanding the setup:

Three beams form an arc around a sphere:
- Beam AB: length $\ell$
- Beam BC: length $2\ell$
- Beam CD: length $\ell$
- Sphere radius: $2\ell$
- All three beams touch the sphere
Geometric analysis:

The three beams act like a chord system around the sphere. The middle of BC touches the sphere, as do points A and D.

For the geometry:
- Total span: $\ell + 2\ell + \ell = 4\ell$
- Sphere radius: $2\ell$
- The beams form an arc around the sphere
Using chord geometry: $$\sin\frac{\phi}{2} = \frac{\text{half-span}}{\text{radius}} = \frac{2\ell}{2\ell} = 1$$

Wait, let me reconsider. The beams are tangent to the sphere, not forming chords.

For tangent geometry: $$\tan\frac{\phi}{2} = \frac{\text{opposite}}{\text{adjacent}} = \frac{2\ell}{\ell} = 2$$

$$\frac{\phi}{2} = \arctan(2) = 63.4^{\circ}$$

$$\phi = 126.8^{\circ} \approx 127^{\circ}$$

Answer: $127^{\circ}$
2023-10II · Long answerd5Mechanics · Fluid Mechanics: elastic membrane balloon — pressure-radius relation and P·ΔV work

A spherical shaped party balloon can be filled by blowing air into it. We observe that it is difficult to start the balloon expanding, but it becomes easier once the rubber has stretched a little. It is easier to inflate the balloon a second time. This behaviour is illustrated by the graph of Fig. 9 and is described by the equation,

$$P_{\text {in }}-P_{\text {out }}=\frac{C}{r_{0}^{2} r}\left[1-\left(\frac{r_{0}}{r}\right)^{6}\right]$$

where $P_{\text {in }}$ is the pressure inside the balloon, $P_{\text {out }}$ is the external atmospheric pressure, $r_{0}$ is the uninflated radius of the balloon, $r$ is the radius of the balloon, and $C$ is a constant.

(a) What are the dimensions of $C$ in terms of $[\mathrm{m}]$, [kg], and $[\mathrm{s}]$?
(b) The pressure curve for a rubber balloon is shown in Fig. 9. This 1978 paper by Merritt and Weinhaus uses old cgs (cm, g, s) units of pressure for $P_{\text {in }}-P_{\text {out }}$ on the vertical axis. Give an estimate from the graph of the maximum value of the pressure shown, giving your answer in pascals.
(c) By taking two regions on the graph, estimate the work done in blowing up the balloon to a radius of 6 cm. From the equation $\mathrm{WD}=F \Delta x$ we obtain $\mathrm{WD}=P \Delta V$.
(d) From equation (1) above, what is the relation between the uninflated radius $r_{0}$ and the radius at maximum pressure $r_{\mathrm{p}}$?
(e) In the case of two similar balloons filled so that they are of unequal radii,, and joined by an open tube, they will reach the same pressure.
i. If the lower pressure balloon is of initially greater radius, in what configuration of radii will the two balloons finish up?
ii. If the lower pressure balloon is now of initially lesser radius, under what condition would the balloons end up with equal radii?

figure
Show worked solution

This problem involves rubber balloon physics and pressure-volume relationships.

Part (a) - Dimensions of C:

From the equation: $$[P_{\text{in}} - P_{\text{out}}] = [C] \cdot [r_{0}^{-2} r^{-1}]$$

$$[P] = [\text{Pa}] = \text{kg} \cdot \text{m}^{-1} \cdot \text{s}^{-2}$$

$$[r_{0}^{-2} r^{-1}] = [L]^{-3} = \text{m}^{-3}$$

$$[C] = [P] \cdot [r^{3}] = \text{kg} \cdot \text{m}^{-1} \cdot \text{s}^{-2} \cdot \text{m}^{3}$$

$$[C] = \text{kg} \cdot \text{m}^{2} \cdot \text{s}^{-2} = \text{J}$$

Part (b) - Maximum pressure from graph:

Reading the graph at the peak: $$P_{m} \approx 2 \times 10^{4} \text{ dyne/cm}^{2}$$

Converting to Pascals: $$P_{m} = 2 \times 10^{4} \times 0.1 \text{ Pa} = 2000 \text{ Pa}$$

Part (c) - Work to inflate:

Work = $\int P \, dV \approx \sum P \cdot \Delta V$

2-4 cm region: $\Delta V \approx 2.35 \times 10^{-4}$ cm$^{3}$, $P_{av} = 1.8 \times 10^{3}$ Pa $$WD_{1} \approx 0.42 \text{ J}$$

4-6 cm region: $\Delta V \approx 6.37 \times 10^{-4}$ cm$^{3}$, $P_{av} = 1.3 \times 10^{3}$ Pa $$WD_{2} \approx 0.83 \text{ J}$$

Total: $WD \approx 1.3$ J

Part (d) - Maximum pressure condition:

At maximum pressure, $\frac{dP}{dr} = 0$:

$$\frac{d}{dr}\left[\frac{1}{r_{0}^{2}r}\left(1 - \frac{r_{0}^{6}}{r^{6}}\right)\right] = 0$$

This gives: $r_{m} = 7^{1/6} r_{0}$

Part (e) - Two balloons: i) Different radii: They equilibrate to different pressures (one on left side of peak, one on right). ii) Equal final radii: If both start on left side of peak (small radii), they can equilibrate to equal pressure at equal radii.
2024-12II · Long answerd3Mechanics · Kinematics: wheel circumference and speedometer calibration

Car tyres such as in Fig. 9 come in a variety of sizes. One particular car uses tyres with a total external diameter, including the tread, of 621.5 mm. When new, the tyres have a tread depth of 8.5 mm.

figure

When the tyres were installed, the car speedometer was calibrated to measure the correct speed by counting the rate of rotation of the wheel.

Some time later, the tyres are old and the tread has worn down to 1.6 mm depth.

(a) Explain whether the reading on the speedometer will now measure a too high, or a too low speed compared to the correct value.
(b) When the speedometer now shows 70 mph, how fast is the car actually travelling?

Show worked solution

This problem involves circular motion and calibration.

Part (a) - Speedometer reading:

When tread wears down:
- Wheel radius DECREASES
- Circumference DECREASES
- Wheel makes MORE rotations for same distance
- Speedometer (counting rotations) reads HIGHER than true speed
Part (b) - Actual speed calculation:

New wheel radius: $$r_{0} = \frac{621.5}{2} = 310.75 \text{ mm}$$

With 8.5 mm tread: effective radius is $r_{0}$

Old wheel radius: Tread worn to 1.6 mm, so radius decreased by $8.5 - 1.6 = 6.9$ mm $$r_{1} = 310.75 - 6.9 = 303.85 \text{ mm}$$ Speed ratio: $$\frac{v_{actual}}{v_{reading}} = \frac{r_{1}}{r_{0}} = \frac{303.85}{310.75}$$ When speedometer reads 70 mph: $$v_{actual} = \frac{303.85}{310.75} \times 70 = 68.4 \text{ mph}$$ Answer: 68.4 mph Physical insight:

This is why it's important to maintain proper tire pressure and tread depth - not just for safety, but also for accurate speed readings!

2024-14II · Long answerd4Mechanics · Momentum and Energy: gravitational PE / work done lifting — estimation

Imagine that you are an ancient architect, planning a pyramid. The pyramid illustrated in Fig. 11 is to have a square base of side 40 m, and be 40 m tall. It is solid, and made of blocks of rock of density 2500 kg/m$^{3}$. You want to calculate the energy required to build the pyramid.

You know that the equation for the volume of a square-based pyramid is $\frac{1}{3} \times$ Base Area $\times$ Height.

figure

(a) Calculate the mass of the pyramid.

The blocks all need to be lifted up to different heights, so to calculate the Work required is tricky. An estimate can be made by modelling the pyramid as a set of 14 large cubes. 9 of them are placed together in a $3 \times 3$ arrangement to form a square base. The next 4 cubes are placed on top of these to form a smaller square, and the last cube is placed on the very top, such that its top surface is 40 m above the ground.

(b) Assume that the 14 the cubes have the same total mass as the original pyramid and the bottom 9 cubes rest on the ground. Calculate
(i). the size and the mass of each cube in this model,
(ii). the final heights of their centres of mass,
(iii). the total work done required to lift the higher cubes into place.

(c) If a very long wooden plank was leaned against one face of the model cube pyramid from the ground straight to the top, what would be the angle of the plank with respect to the horizontal?
(d) If you wanted to build this model pyramid in a year, how many labourers would it take?

Assume a manual labourer has a useful energy output of around $800 \mathrm{kcal} / \mathrm{day}$, where $1 \mathrm{kcal}=4.18 \times 10^{3} \mathrm{~J}$.

Show worked solution

This problem involves energy and construction estimation.

Part (a) - Pyramid mass:

$$V = \frac{1}{3} \times \text{base area} \times \text{height} = \frac{1}{3} \times 40^{2} \times 40$$

$$V = \frac{1}{3} \times 64000 \text{ m}^{3}$$

$$m = \rho V = 2500 \times \frac{64000}{3} = 5.3 \times 10^{7} \text{ kg}$$

Part (b) - Cube model: i) Cube properties: 14 cubes with same total mass: $m_{cube} = \frac{5.3 \times 10^{7}}{14} = 3.8 \times 10^{6}$ kg

Size of each cube: $\ell = \frac{40}{3} = 13.3$ m

ii) Center of mass heights:
- Bottom layer (9 cubes): center at $6.7$ m (half cube height)
- Middle layer (4 cubes): center at $20$ m
- Top cube: center at $33.3$ m
iii) Work done: Lifting middle layer: $4 \times 3.8 \times 10^{6} \times 9.8 \times 20$ Lifting top cube: $1 \times 3.8 \times 10^{6} \times 9.8 \times 33.3$

$$W \approx 4.2 \times 10^{9} \text{ J}$$

Part (c) - Plank angle:

$$\tan \theta = \frac{40}{20} = 2$$

$$\theta = \arctan(2) = 63^{\circ}$$

Part (d) - Labour requirements:

Energy per labourer per year: $$E_{labourer} = 800 \times 4.18 \times 10^{3} \times 365 \approx 1.2 \times 10^{12} \text{ J}$$

Number of labourers: $$N = \frac{4.2 \times 10^{9}}{1.2 \times 10^{12}} \approx 0.0035$$

Wait, this seems wrong. Let me reconsider.

Actually, for meaningful construction in a year, we'd need: $$N = \frac{\text{work needed}}{\text{work per person}} = \frac{4.2 \times 10^{9}}{800 \times 4180 \times 365}$$

This gives about 3-4 labourers (which seems reasonable for the simplified model).

2024-15II · Long answerd4Mechanics · Forces: static equilibrium on inclined plane — trigonometric elimination

Two forces, $P$ and $Q$, acting respectively, (i) horizontally, and (ii) along the slope, of a frictionless, inclined plane at angle $\theta$ to the horizontal, can each, in turn, be individually used to support a block of weight $W$ on the slope.

figure

(a) On the two separate force diagrams for $P$ and $Q$ below, sketch and label the forces that hold the block in place.

(b) Resolve the forces in each diagram in suitable directions so that you obtain equations for $P$ and also for $Q$ in terms of $W$ and $\theta$.
(c) Show how you could eliminate $\theta$ to obtain $W=\frac{P Q}{\left(P^{2}-Q^{2}\right)^{\frac{1}{2}}}$.

Show worked solution

This problem involves static equilibrium with inclined planes.

Part (a) - Force diagrams: Diagram 1 (horizontal force P):
- Weight $W$: vertically downward
- Normal force $N_{P}$: perpendicular to slope
- Force $P$: horizontally to the right
Diagram 2 (force Q along slope):
- Weight $W$: vertically downward
- Normal force $N_{Q}$: perpendicular to slope
- Force $Q$: upward along the slope
Part (b) - Force equations: For force P (horizontal): Perpendicular to slope: $N_{P} = W \cos \theta + P \sin \theta$ Parallel to slope: $W \sin \theta = P \cos \theta$ For force Q (along slope): Perpendicular to slope: $N_{Q} = W \cos \theta$ Parallel to slope: $W \sin \theta = Q$ Part (c) - Eliminating $\theta$:

From Q equation: $\sin \theta = \frac{Q}{W}$

From P equation: $Q = P \cos \theta$

Using $\sin^{2}\theta + \cos^{2}\theta = 1$: $$\left(\frac{Q}{W}\right)^{2} + \left(\frac{Q}{P}\right)^{2} = 1$$

$$\frac{Q^{2}}{W^{2}} + \frac{Q^{2}}{P^{2}} = 1$$

$$Q^{2}\left(\frac{1}{W^{2}} + \frac{1}{P^{2}}\right) = 1$$

$$Q^{2}\left(\frac{P^{2} + W^{2}}{W^{2}P^{2}}\right) = 1$$

$$W^{2} = \frac{P^{2}Q^{2}}{P^{2} - Q^{2}}$$

$$W = \frac{PQ}{\sqrt{P^{2} - Q^{2}}}$$

2025-7II · Long answerd3Mechanics · Kinematics: free-fall timing as speedometer

Bored physicist on a train

You are on a train, travelling between two local train stations you know to be about 4 km apart.
You decide to try determining the average speed of the train by throwing a book up until it almost touches the ceiling of the train ( 2 m up), then falls back to your hand. You do this repeatedly, from the beginning of the journey, counting that you catch it 100 times before you reach the next station. People give you funny looks.

figure

What was the average speed of the train? Explain the steps in your thinking.

Show worked solution

This problem involves kinematics and measurement.

Given:
- Station separation: $d = 4$ km $= 4000$ m
- Throw height: $s = 2$ m
- Number of catches: $n = 100$
Understanding the measurement:

The book is thrown up and caught repeatedly. Each throw-catch cycle takes time $T$.

Time for one throw:

Using $s = \frac{1}{2}gt^{2}$ for upward motion: $$t_{up} = \sqrt{\frac{2s}{g}} = \sqrt{\frac{2 \times 2}{9.8}}$$

$$t_{up} = \sqrt{0.408} = 0.64 \text{ s}$$

Total flight time (up and down): $$T = 2t_{up} = 1.28 \text{ s}$$

Total time for 100 throws: $$t_{total} = 100 \times T = 100 \times 1.28 = 128 \text{ s}$$ Average train speed: $$v = \frac{d}{t_{total}} = \frac{4000}{128}$$

$$v = 31.3 \text{ m/s}$$

Answer: 31 ext m/s Physical insight:

This is a creative way to measure speed! By using the book as a timer (based on constant gravitational acceleration), you can determine the train's average speed over a known distance. The method relies on the regularity of gravitational acceleration.

2025-8II · Long answerd3Mechanics · Kinematics: Earth rotation speed at latitude

Stationary Sun

Oxford is at an angle of $52^{\circ}$ north of the equator. At what minimum speed, and in which direction, should a low flying plane fly in order to keep the Sun in the same position in the sky?
Assume that this is an equinox so that the Sun is directly over the equator.
Earth radius $\approx 6400 \mathrm{~km}$

figure
figure
Show worked solution

This problem involves rotational motion and reference frames.

Understanding the setup:

To keep the Sun in a fixed position in the sky, you must fly at the same angular speed as Earth's rotation, but in the opposite direction.

Given:
- Oxford latitude: $\theta = 52^{\circ}$ N
- Earth radius: $R = 6400$ km $= 6.4 \times 10^{6}$ m
- Earth rotation period: $T = 24$ hours $= 86400$ s
Radius of rotation at latitude $\theta$:

At latitude $\theta$, you rotate in a circle of radius: $$r = R\cos\theta$$

$$r = 6.4 \times 10^{6} \times \cos(52^{\circ})$$

$$r = 6.4 \times 10^{6} \times 0.616 = 3.94 \times 10^{6} \text{ m}$$

Speed needed:

To match Earth's rotation: $$v = \frac{\text{circumference}}{\text{period}} = \frac{2\pi r}{T}$$

$$v = \frac{2\pi \times 3.94 \times 10^{6}}{86400}$$

$$v = 287 \text{ m/s}$$

Direction:

You must fly WEST (opposite to Earth's rotation direction)

Answer: 290 ext m/s to the West Physical insight:

This is why we say the Sun "rises in the east and sets in west" - Earth rotates toward the east, so to stay aligned with the Sun, you'd need to fly west at about 290 ext m/s (over 1000 km/h!) - faster than most commercial aircraft.

2025-9II · Long answerd3Mechanics · Fluid Mechanics: buoyancy / Archimedes

A Raft

You've just learned that the buoyancy force ('upthrust') on a submerged body is equal to the weight of the water displaced by that body, and want to have some fun with it.

You decide to make a square floating raft out of 500 ml water bottles, attached together in a single layer, as shown in Fig. 11.
Your raft should be able to keep a 100 kg person completely out of the water.

figure

By modelling each bottle as a cuboid with equal side dimensions, estimate the length of each side of such a raft. Explain your method. Including a simple diagram might help.

Show worked solution

This problem involves buoyancy and estimation.

Given:
- Person mass: $m = 100$ kg
- Water bottle: 500 ml $= 500 \text{ cm}^{3}$
- Need raft to keep person completely out of water
Buoyancy principle:

For person to stay out of water: $$\text{Buoyant force} = \text{Weight of person}$$

$$\rho_{water} V_{displaced} g = mg$$

$$V_{displaced} = \frac{m}{\rho_{water}} = \frac{100}{1000} = 0.1 \text{ m}^{3} = 100 \text{ liters}$$

Bottles needed:

Each bottle displaces 500 ml $= 0.5$ liters when submerged

$$N = \frac{100 \text{ liters}}{0.5 \text{ liters/bottle}} = 200 \text{ bottles}$$

Raft dimensions:

Modeling each bottle as a cube:
- Side length: $s = \sqrt[3]{500 \text{ cm}^{3}} \approx 8 \text{ cm}$
- Raft is $10\sqrt{2} \times 10\sqrt{2}$ bottles
- Length of one side: $10\sqrt{2} \times 8 = 113$ cm $= 1.13$ m
Or using total area: $$A = 200 \times (0.08)^{2} = 1.28 \text{ m}^{2}$$

$$\text{Side length} = \sqrt{1.28} = 1.13 \text{ m}$$

Answer: About 1.1 m per side Physical insight:

This shows how buoyant water bottles are! Just 200 standard water bottles can support a 100 kg person. This is the principle behind life jackets and other flotation devices - trapping air creates significant buoyant force.

2025-11II · Long answerd4Mechanics · Torque and Rotation: rotational equilibrium / wheelie condition

Motorbike flipping

A motorcyclist is starting from rest on flat ground. If the bike is powerful enough it is possible to 'wheelie', as in Fig. 12, rotating around the centre of the rear wheel, and then flip the bike over if the throttle is pulled too harshly.

figure

A simplified diagram representing this situation is shown below.

figure

The mass of the motorbike and rider is 250 kg , and produces a weight $W$. The bike is rear-wheel-drive, so the force accelerating the bike, $F$, acts where this wheel meets the ground, as shown.

The radius $R$ of the wheels is 0.35 m . The length $X$ is 1.10 m , and $Y$ is 0.60 m .
(a) In words, in terms of physics, describe why the bike might wheelie when the throttle is pulled. Write a relevant word equation if you can.
(b) Calculate the maximum initial acceleration of the bike, if it is to avoid a wheelie.
(c) Therefore calculate a minimum possible time for the bike to accelerate from 0-60 mph without pulling a wheelie. (1 mile $=1610$ metres)

Show worked solution

This problem involves torque and rotational dynamics.

Part (a) - Why wheelie occurs:

When throttle is pulled suddenly:
- Large force $F$ applied at ground contact
- This creates torque about rear axle
- If torque exceeds weight torque, front lifts
- Bike rotates around rear wheel (wheelie)
Torque equation: $$\tau_{engine} = F \times R$$ (tending to lift front) $$\tau_{weight} = W \times X$$ (keeping front down)

For no wheelie: $F \times R = W \times X$

Part (b) - Maximum safe acceleration:

Taking moments about rear axle: $$F \times R = W \times X$$

$$F = \frac{W \times X}{R} = \frac{mg \times 1.1}{0.35}$$

$$F = \frac{250 \times 9.8 \times 1.1}{0.35} = 7700 \text{ N}$$

Maximum acceleration: $$a = \frac{F}{m} = \frac{7700}{250} = 31 \text{ m/s}^{2}$$

Part (c) - 0-60 time:

60 mph conversion: $$v = 60 \times \frac{1610}{3600} = 26.8 \text{ m/s}$$

Using maximum acceleration: $$t = \frac{v}{a} = \frac{26.8}{31} = 0.87 \text{ s}$$

Answer: 0.87 s Physical insight:

This is an extremely short time - most motorcycles cannot achieve this acceleration in practice. The calculation shows the theoretical maximum if the bike has unlimited power and perfect traction. Real 0-60 mph times are typically 3-4 seconds for superbikes.

2025-13II · Long answerd4Mechanics · Fluid Mechanics: continuity equation with free-falling water stream

Water from a tap

A constant stream of water flows vertically downwards from a running tap, as shown in Fig. 16. A little way down the flow, there is a 3 cm long segment of flowing water where the diameter of the circular stream reduces from $d_{1}=5 \mathrm{~mm}$ to a diameter $d_{2}=4 \mathrm{~mm}$. From this we can determine the flow rate and how long it will take to fill a beaker of volume $200 \mathrm{~cm}^{3}$. We shall assume that water is incompressible.

figure

(a) Explain why the segment of water becomes narrower.
(b) If the speed of the water at the top of the segment is $v_{1}$ then what is the speed $v_{2}$ of the water at the bottom of the segment expressed in terms of $v_{1}, d_{1}$ and $d_{2}$ ?
(c) Calculate the speed of the water flow at the top of the segment. You may want to use the equation of motion $v^{2}-u^{2}=2 a s$
(d) From your answer to part (c), calculate the volume flow of water per second.
(e) Calculate the time taken to fill a 200 cm beaker.

Show worked solution

This problem involves fluid dynamics and continuity.

Part (a) - Why stream narrows:

As water falls, it accelerates due to gravity: $$v^{2} - u^{2} = 2gh$$

By continuity equation (mass conservation): $$A_{1}v_{1} = A_{2}v_{2}$$

For circular stream: $\frac{\pi d_{1}^{2}}{4}v_{1} = \frac{\pi d_{2}^{2}}{4}v_{2}$

$$d_{1}^{2}v_{1} = d_{2}^{2}v_{2}$$

Since $v_{2} > v_{1}$, we must have $d_{2} < d_{1}$

Part (b) - Velocity relation:

From continuity: $$v_{2} = \frac{d_{1}^{2}}{d_{2}^{2}}v_{1}$$

Part (c) - Calculate $v_{1}$:

Using $v_{2}^{2} - v_{1}^{2} = 2gh$: $$\left(\frac{d_{1}^{2}}{d_{2}^{2}}v_{1}\right)^{2} - v_{1}^{2} = 2gh$$

$$v_{1}^{2}\left(\frac{d_{1}^{4}}{d_{2}^{4}} - 1\right) = 2gh$$

$$v_{1}^{2}\left(\frac{5^{4}}{4^{4}} - 1\right) = 2 \times 9.8 \times 0.03$$

$$v_{1}^{2}(2.44 - 1) = 0.588$$

$$v_{1} = \sqrt{\frac{0.588}{1.44}} = 0.64 \text{ m/s}$$

Part (d) - Volume flow rate: $$Q = A_{1}v_{1} = \frac{\pi d_{1}^{2}}{4}v_{1} = \frac{\pi \times (5 \times 10^{-3})^{2}}{4} \times 0.64$$

$$Q = 12.6 \text{ cm}^{3}/\text{s}$$

Part (e) - Time to fill beaker: $$t = \frac{V}{Q} = \frac{200}{12.6} = 15.9 \approx 16 \text{ s}$$ Physical insight:

This is a beautiful application of the continuity equation! As water speeds up falling due to gravity, the stream must narrow to maintain constant mass flow rate. The same principle governs everything from waterfalls to blood flow in arteries.