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Classes Dynamics of a Particle

Dynamics of a Particle
NEWTON’S LAWS Section - 1

Newtons 1st Law

Every body continues in its state of rest, or of uniform motion in a straight line, unless it is compelled to
change that state by the forces impressed on it. Any object at rest or moving with uniform velocity is an
example of Newton’s first law of motion. The net force on such an object is zero. Such objects are said to be
in equilibrium.

Linear Momentum & Newton’s Second Law

The product of mass and velocity for moving body is known as momentum (or linear momentum). It is a
vector quantity whose direction is same as that of velocity and is denoted by P.
momentum = mass  velocity (Units in SI system are Kg m/s)

 P  mv

Newton’s Second Law of Motion

The rate of change of linear momentum of a body with time is proportional to the net force acting on it.
dp d dv
F   mv   m
dt dt dt

 F  ma

Newton’s Third Law of Motion

Whenever one body exerts a force on another body, the second always exerts
on the first a force that is equal in magnitude, is opposite and has the same line of
action.
 A single isolated force is therefore an impossibility.
 The two forces involved in any interaction between the two bodies are
often called as an action and a reaction.
 Either force may be considered as the action and the other the reaction
to it.

Example : Two blocks A and B are placed on a table.

Identify ACTION - REACTION pairs.

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Let mA and mB be the masses of two blocks.

Draw the force diagrams of A and B.

R = force exerted by A by B (in force diagram of B)

R = force exerted by B on A (in force diagram of A)
These two equal and opposite forces form Action- Reaction pair.
mBg = force on B by earth, hence B will exert an equal and
opposite force on earth.
These two forces will form an Action-Reaction pair.
N = force on A by the table,
Hence A will exert an equal and opposite force on the table forming an Action - Reaction pair.

Note : Any two forces acting on same body can not from an Action-Reaction pair.

Example : A block of mass is suspended at the end of a massless string which is fixed to the ceiling with
the help of a hook. Identify the ActionReaction pairs.

Illustration - 1A
A ball of mass m moving with speed u collides with the floor at an
angle  with the vertical. If it rebounds at the same angle  and with the same speed,
the change in momentum is
(A) 2 mu (B) 2mu cos  (C) 2mu sin  (D) zero

SOLUTION : (B)
Initial momentum :
Px = mu sin 
Py =  mu cos 

Final momentum :
Px = mu sin 
Py = + mu cos 

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Change in momentum :
Px = mu sin   mu sin  = 0
Py = mu cos   ( mu cos ) = 2 mu cos 
 change in momentum is 2 mu cos  a long the vertical direction i.e.,
 P  2 mu cos  ˆj

Illustration - 1B A ball was in contact with the floor for 0.1 sec. The mass of the ball m = 200 gm, u = 2 m/
s and  = 60. These two forces form an action reaction pair. Which of the following is (are) true ?
(A) force on the ball is 4N upwards (B) force on the ball is 4N downwards
(C) force on the floor is 4N upwards (D) force on the floor is 4N downwards

SOLUTION : (AD)
Fx = 0
2  0.2  2 1 / 2 
 Py  4N
Using Fy  0.1
t Hence force on the ball by the floor is 4 N
2mu cos  upwards. The force on the horizontal floor by
F  Fy  the ball is 4 N downwards.
t

Illustration - 2 A liquid of density  is flowing with a speed V through a pipe of

cross-sectional area A. The pipe is bent in the shape of a right angle as shown. What
force should be exerted on the pipe at the corner to keep it fixed ?

SOLUTION :
Volume flowing per sec = AV
Mass flowing per sec = (AV)  = AV
Momentum flowing per sec = (mass per sec) V = AV2
Momentum flowing per sec towards the corner
= AV 2  towards right
Momentum flowing per sec away from corner = AV2 downwards
Force on liquid = change in momentum flow per sec.
 AV 2      AV 2    

 AV 2      AV 2    

 2 AV 2  at 45 with horizontal as shown.

Hence the pipe must be pushed at the corners with force 2 AV 2  at an angle of 45 with the horizontal.

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Illustration - 3 A chain hangs on a thread and touches the surface of a table by its lower end. Show that
after the thread has been burned through, the force exerted on the table by the falling part of the chain at any
moment is twice the weight of the part already resting on the table.
SOLUTION :
Let y be the length of the part of the chain already resting on the table. The point P which is hitting the table
at this instant has fallen through a height y as shown.

Hence the velocity of this point P is

V  2 gy
Force on chain = momentum per sec rebounding after impact  momentum per sec hitting the table.


 0   AV 2  
 AV 2   A  2 gy  
F = 2 (Ay ) g = 2 (weight of resting part)

APPLICATIONS OF NEWTON’S SECOND LAW-I Section - 2

The vector equation F  ma can be split into two scalar equations:

 One for the X-components and the other for the Y-components.
Fx = m ax
Fy = m ay

Where  Fx = sum of all the X-components of the forces on the body.

Fy = sum of all the Y- components of the forces on the body.
ax = X - component of acceleration.
ay = Y - component of acceleration.

 To simplify the analysis, one axis (usually X-axis) is taken along the direction of acceleration of the
body and the other perpendicular to it. In that case :
Fx = max and Fy = 0 as ay = 0.

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Analysis of a problem :
The following example illustrates the general approach for the problems involving the application of IInd law.
The main steps while analysing such problems are :
(i) Draw the force diagram of each body, showing all the forces acting on it.
(ii) Identify the direction of acceleration for each body and show it by an arrow (dotted or double-lined)
drawn slightly away from the force-diagram. We can call it ‘acceleration diagram’.
(iii) Taking one axis along the direction of acceleration and the other perpendicular to it, resolve the forces
into respective components.
(iv) Form two equations from each force diagram :
net force in the direction of acceleration = ma
forces which are perpendicular to the direction of acceleration must balance each other.

Illustration - 4 Two masses m1 and m2 are connected by a light string passing over a
fixed pulley as shown. The system is suspended in a vertical plane. Find the tension in the
string connecting m1 and m2 and acceleration of masses if m1 = 3 Kg and m2 = 5 Kg. Also
find the tension in the rope connecting the centre of pulley to the ceiling.

SOLUTION :
As m2 is heavier, it moves down and m1 moves
up.
Let the magnitude of acceleration = a m2  m1
(same for both as they are connected by  a g 
m2  m1
same string which passes over a fixed pul-
g
ley). a  2.45 m / s 2
4
Let T be the tension in the string.
2m1m2
Draw the force diagrams and acceleration dia- and T g  36.75 N
grams of both masses. m2  m1

Force Diagram of Pulley :

1. Net force in the direction of acceleration = m1a

 T  m1g = m1a . . . . (i)
T0 = tension in the rope tied to the centre of
2. Net force in the direction of acceleration = m2a pulley
 m2g  T = m2a . . . . (ii) T0 = T + T = 2T
Adding (i) and (ii), we get : T0  2  36.75  73.5 N
m2g  m1g = m1a + m2a

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Illustration - 5 Two blocks connected by a cord passing over a small

frictionless pulley rest on a smooth plane as shown.
(a) Which way will the system move ?
(b) What is the acceleration of the block ?
(c) What is the tension in the cord ?

SOLUTION : For B :
The effective component of gravity on
A (100 g sin 30) is more than that on B(50
g sin 53)

So A slides will slide down and B goes up.

Drawing the force diagrams of A and B :
For A :
T – 50g sin 53 = 50a . . . . .(ii)
R2 = 50g cos 53
Adding (i) and (ii), we get :
– 50 g sin 53 + 100g sin 30 = 150 a
Solve to get :
a = +0.65 m/s2.
100g sin 30 – T = 100a . . . . .(i) From (i) T = 100 g sin 30 – 100 a
R1 = 100g cos 30 = 100  9.8  1/2 – 100  (+0.65)
 T = 425 N

Illustration - 6 A block hangs from a spring balance supported from the ceiling of an
elevator.
(a) If the elevator has an upward acceleration of 2.45 m/s2 and balance reads 50 N,
what is the true weight of the body ?
(b) Under what circumstances will the balance read 30 N ?
(c) What will be the reading in the balance if the cable of the elevator breaks ?

SOLUTION :
(a) Reading in the spring balance is equal to the tension in the spring = 50 N.
As the elevator is accelerating in upward direction with 2.45 m/s2,
The acceleration of the block = a = 2.45 m/s2 = g/4
T  mg = ma
50  mg = m(g/4)
mg = 40 N = true weight

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Note : When the elevator has an upward acceleration, reading is greater than the actual weight.

(b) Reading of balance = T = 30 N.

As T < mg (actual weight), the block and elevator must have a

downward acceleration a.
mg  T = ma
a = 2.45 m/s2 is in downward direction. It is possible in two ways:
(i) The elevator is going up and slowing down or
(ii) The elevator is going down and its speed is increasing.

Note : The reading of balance is less than actual weight if elevator has a downward
acceleration.

(c) If the cable breaks, the acceleration of the block and the elevator = g
(downwards).
Net force = mass × acceleration
mg  T = mg
T=0
The reading of the balance = 0 N

Note : (i) If a block is placed on a weighing machine lying on the floor of an

accelerating lift, the force acting on the block are mg and normal
reaction(N). In that case reading of the weighing machine = N
(ii) Inside a lift having upward acceleration of magnitude a,
Reading = mg + ma
(iii) Inside a lift having downward acceleration of magnitude a,
Reading = mg – ma

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Illustration - 7 A homogenous rod with length L is acted upon

by two collinear forces F1 and F2 (F1 > F2) applied to its ends
and directed oppositely. What is the tension force F at a cross
section P, at a distance  from F1 end ?
SOLUTION :
Let a be the acceleration of the rod.
To find the tension at P, we have to split the rod in two parts : AP and PB.

M
(Mass of the part AP) = (mass per unit length)  
L
From the force diagram of part AP,
M 
F1  F   a
 L 
From the force diagram of the rod AB :
F1  F2  Ma

M M   F1  F2 
Hence F  F1  a  F1   
L L  M 


 L    F1  F2
L
NOW ATTEMPT IN-CHAPTER EXERCISE-A BEFORE PROCEEDING AHEAD IN THIS EBOOK

FORCE OF FRICTION Section - 3

Whenever two rough surfaces are in contact, sliding between the surfaces is opposed by the force of friction which
the surfaces exert on each other. The force of friction acts parallel to the surfaces in contact and on both the
surfaces.
1. Static Friction :
If the tendency to slide against each other is too small to cause actual sliding motion, the force of friction is
called as the force of static friction. The magnitude of this force balances the net applied force. Hence if
there is no sliding between the surfaces,
Force of static friction = net applied force parallel to the surfaces
2. Critical Point (Maximum Static friction) :
If the sliding between the surfaces is about to begin, the static friction is at its maximum value which is equal
to sN, where N = normal reaction between the surfaces and µs = coefficient of static friction. In this

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situation, we say that the surfaces are at their point of sliding and are exerting a force µsN on each other so
as to oppose sliding.
3. Kinetic Friction :
If actual sliding is taking place between the surfaces, the force of friction is called as force of kinetic friction
or the force of sliding friction (fk).
f k = µ kN where µk = coefficient of kinetic friction

Note : Force of friction on a body always acts against the sliding tendency.

Illustration - 8 A block of weight 100 N lying on a horizontal surface is pushed

by a force F acting at an angle 30 with horizontal. For what value of F will the
block begin to move if s = 0.25 ?

SOLUTION :
Consider the force diagram of the block at the
moment when it is just to start moving.

Balancing the forces :

N = mg + F sin 30
F cos 30 = sN s mg 0.25 100  2
F 
F cos 30 = s (mg + F sin 30) cos 30  s sin 30 3  0.25

F = 33.74 N

Illustration - 9 Two blocks of masses m and M are connected to the ends

of a string passing over a pulley. M lies on the plane inclined at an angle 
with the horizontal and m is hanging vertically as shown. The coefficient of
static friction between M and the plane is s. Find the minimum and maxi-
mum values of m so that the system is at rest.

SOLUTION :
If m is much heavier than M, then the block M will move upwards.
If m is much lighter than M, then the block M will move downwards.
We will consider the following situations :
(i) m is at its maximum value so that M is about to start sliding upwards.
(ii) m is at its minimum value so that M is about to start sliding downwards.

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Case 1 : Upward slipping tendency of M As M is about to start sliding down, the fric-
(for maximum value of m) tional force is sN upwards.

As M is just at the point of sliding up, frictional

force on M is sN down the plane.

Balancing forces :
N = Mg cos 
Balancing forces : T + sN = Mg sin 
N = Mg cos  T = mg
T = Mg sin  + sN
Hence mg + s Mg cos = Mg sin 
T = mg
minimum value of m = M (sin  s cos )
Hence mg = Mg sin  + s Mg cos 
Maximum value of m = M (sin +s cos  ) Therefore the blocks are at rest if :
M (sin  scos) < m < M (sin + scos)
Case 2: Downward slipping tendency of M
(for minimum value of m)
Illustration - 10 A block of mass m is placed on another block of mass M lying
on a smooth horizontal surface. The coefficient of static friction between m and
M is s. What is the maximum force that can be applied to M so that the blocks
remains at rest relative to each other ?

SOLUTION :
Draw the force diagrams of blocks at the R = normal reaction between M and
moment when F is at its maximum value and the surface.
m is about to slide relative to it.
Frictional force between m and M = s N
(N: normal reaction between the blocks)
Due to the friction, M will try to drag m to-
wards right and hence frictional force will act
on m towards right.
Let a = acceleration of each block
(same as there is no rubbing From force diagram of m :
between the blocks)
N = mg
sN = ma

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From force diagram of M : Fmax  sN = Ma

Combining these two equations, we get :
Fmax = s (m + M) g
Hence s (m + M)g is the critical value of
force F.
 If F is greater than this critical value, m
begins to slip relative to M and their
accelerations will be different.
 If F is smaller than this critical value, m
N + Mg = R and M move together without any rela
tive motion.

Illustration - 11 A block of mass m is placed on another block of mass M

lying on a smooth horizontal surface. The coefficient of static friction between
m and M is s. What is the maximum force that can be applied to m so that
the blocks remains at rest relative to each other ?

SOLUTION :
Imagine the situation when F is at its maximum
value so that m is about to start slipping
From forces on m :
relative to M.
F  sN = ma
The mass m tries to drag M towards right due
to friction. N = mg
From forces on M :
sN = Ma
R = N + Mg
Solving these equations, we get :
  m  M  mg
Fmax  s
M
Hence frictional force on M exerted by m will  If F is less than this critical value, the
be towards right. blocks stick together without any rela
Let a = magnitude of acceleration of blocks tive motion.
towards right.  If F is greater than this critical value, the
blocks slide relative to each other and
their accelerations are different.

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Illustration - 12 In the last example, take m = 2 Kg, M = 4 Kg and

s = k = 0.2. Find the acceleration of the blocks if the force F is
(a) 5N (b) 10 N (take g = 10 m/s2).
(c) If the force applied is 10 N as in (b), after what time will the block
m fall off the surface of M ? Assume that the size of block m is
negligible and it is placed at a distance  = 4 m from the right
edge of M.

SOLUTION :
From the result of last example, From force diagram of m :
s  m  M  mg N = mg
critical value of Fc 
M
F  kN = ma1
F=6N (substituting the values)
Solve to get,
(a) As F = 5 N
 F < critical value, blocks will stick to- a1 = 3 m/s2
gether. From force diagram of M :
Let acceleration of both = a. N + Mg = R
Taking (m + M) as a single body,
kN = Ma2
k mg = Ma2
F 5
a   0.833 m / s 2
mM 6 Solve to get,
a2 = 1 m/s2
(b) F = 10 N
 F > critical value (c)  = 1/2 ar t 2 ; where ar is the acceleration of
m relative to M.
Hence blocks will slip against each
other and their acceleration will be ar = a1  a2 = (3  1) m/s2 = 2 m/s2
different.
2 2  4
Let a1 = acceleration of m and a2 =  t 
acceleration of M ar 2
The frictional force = 2 seconds.
= kN (due to kinetic friction)

Illustration - 13 Find the least pulling force which acting at an angle of 45 with the horizontal, will slide a
body weighing 5 Kg along a rough horizontal surface. The coefficient of friction s = k = 1/3. If a force of
double this value is applied along the same direction, find the resulting acceleration of the block.

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SOLUTION :
Balancing forces in horizontal direction :
P cos 45 = sR
P cos 45 = s (mg  P sin 45)
 s mg
 P  17.32 N
cos 45   s sin 45

If applied force is 2P :
When the block is about to start sliding, fric-
then R = mg  2P sin 45
tional force is at its limiting value = sR.
and 2P cos 45  kR = ma
Balancing forces in vertical direction :
2P cos 45  k (mg  2P sin 45 ) = ma
R + P sin 45 = mg  a  3.28 m / s 2
R = mg  P sin 45

Illustration - 14 Find the time required by a block to come to rest from a speed of 10 m/s moving on a
horizontal surface where k = 0.2. What is the distance covered before stopping ?
SOLUTION :
If the block is moving towards right and slowing, the force of friction and hence acceleration is directed
towards left.

force  k mg
a    k g towards left.
mass m

Now u = 10 m/s, v = 0 m/s, a  g

v = u + at
Let displacement = s
0 = 10  k g t
v2  u 2 02  102
s   25.5 m
 t = 5.10 seconds 2a 2   k g 

Illustration - 15 The blocks of masses m and M are not attached to each other but are
in contact. The coefficient of static friction between the blocks is  but the surface
beneath M is smooth. What is the maximum magnitude of the horizontal force F
required to hold m against M ?
m  M  m g m  M  m g M  M  m g
(A) (B) (C) (D) m (M + m)g
M M M
SOLUTION : (B)
If m and M are sticking together they will have same acceleration.

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Let a = acceleration of blocks

Solve to get :
F  R = ma MF
f = mg and R
f = mg M m
For no slipping, f  s R
MF
mg 
R = Ma M m
f  Mg  N mg  M  m 
 F
s M

Illustration - 16 A 5 kg block is projected upwards with an initial speed of 10 m/s from the bottom of a plane
inclined at 30 with horizontal. The coefficient of kinetic friction between the block and the plane is 0.2.
(a) How far does the block move up the plane ?
(b) How long does it move up the plane ?
(c) After what time from its projection does the block again come back to the bottom ? With what speed
does it arrive ?

SOLUTION : the magnitude of acceleration

Analysis of Upward Motion
 While the block is moving up, the frictional mg sin 30   mg cos 30

force acts downward. m
 As the block is slowing down, the velocity = g (sin 30 +  cos 30)
and acceleration must be in opposite direc-  a =  g (sin 30 +  mg cos 30)
tions.
=  6.6 m/s2
 Velocity in this case is upwards, so
acceleration is in downward direction
Calculation of Time and displacement :
and hence negative.
u = + 10 m/s,
Using v2 = u2 + 2as, we get :
02 = 102 + 2 (-6.6) (s)
 s = 7.58 m
v = u + at
0 = 10  6.6  t
t = 1.5 seconds

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Hence the block moves up the plane for 1.5 As acceleration is in downward direction,
sec covering 7.58 m. a = 3.2 m/s2
For the motion of block down the plane : Calculation of Time :
s =  7.58 m (down the plane) and
u = 0 m/s
s = ut + 1/2 at2
7.58 = (0) + 1/2 (3.2) t2
 t = 2.18 sec.
So the total time taken to come back :
tup + tdown = 1.5 + 2.18 = 3.68 seconds
The magnitude of acceleration
v = u + at
mg sin 30   mg cos 30
 v = 0 + (3.2) (2.18) =  6.8 m/s
m v =  6.8 m/s.
= g (sin 30   cos 30)
So the block arrives at the bottom with a
 a = 3.2 m/s2 speed of 6.8 m/s.

NOW ATTEMPT IN-CHAPTER EXERCISE-B BEFORE PROCEEDING AHEAD IN THIS EBOOK

DYNAMICS OF CIRCULAR MOTION Section - 4

Force on the Particle

For a mass m to have an acceleration, a force given by F = ma is always required. In uniform circular
motion, acceleration is of magnitude v2/r and is directed towards centre. Hence a force of magnitude mv2/
r and directed towards centre is required to keep a particle in circular motion. This force (acting towards
centre) is known as the centripetal force. After studying the following examples, you should carefully note
that the centripetal force is not an extra force on a body. Whatever force is responsible for circular motion
becomes the centripetal force.
For example, when a satellite revolves around the earth, the gravitational attraction of earth becomes the
centripetal force for the circular motion of the satellite; when an electron revolves around the nucleus in an
atom. the electrostatic attraction of nucleus becomes the centripetal force for the electron’s circular motion;
in case of a conical pendulum (see the article), T sin  (component of tension) becomes the centripetal
force.

Main steps for analysing forces in uniform circular motion :

Take one axis along the radius of circle (i.e. in direction of acceleration) and other axis perpendicular to
the radius. Resolve all the forces into components.
Net force along perpendicular axis = 0

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mv 2
Net force along radial axis (towards centre) =  m 2 r
r
Main steps for analysing forces in Non-Uniform Circular Motion :
After resolving all the forces along tangential and radial axes :
net tangential force = Ft = m at
net radial force = Fr = m ar = mv2/ r
The most common example of non-uniform circular motion is the motion of particle in vertical circle. If a
particle is revolved in a vertical circle with the help of a string, the forces are: tension (T) towards centre and
weight (mg). In case of a particle moving along the outside surface of a circular track (or sphere), the forces
are: normal reaction (N) away from the centre and weight (mg).

Illustration - 17 A small mass m is attached to a rubber cord and revolves in a

horizontal frictionless plane with a constant frequency f. The cord lies in the plane
of the circle. The unstretched length of the cord is 0. The tension in the cord
increases in direct proportion to its elongation, the tension per unit elongation
being k. Find :
(a) the radius of the uniform circular motion. (b) the tension T in the cord.

SOLUTION :
As the tension in the cord is proportional we get :
to elongation,
T = kx where x = elongation. 4 2 f 2 m 0
x
Radius of the circle = elongated length of k  4 2 f 2 m
cord .k  0
r = 0 + x radius   0  x 
k  4 2 f 2 m
and the net force towards centre = m 2r
4 2 f 2mk  0
T kx
T = m (2 f )2 (0 + x) k  4 2 f 2 m
Solving T = kx and T = m(2 f )2 (0 + x),

Illustration - 18 A disc rotates at 30 rev/min around a vertical axis. A body lies on the disc at the distance of
20 cm from the axis of rotation. What should be the minimum value of the coefficient of friction between the
body and the disc, so that the body will not slide off the disc ?

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SOLUTION :

As the disc rotates, the body will tend to slip At the point of slipping, friction = sR
away from axis. sR = m 2r where R = mg
Due to this tendency to slip, force of static fric-  2
s =  r/g
tion arises towards the centre. where  = 2 (30/60) =  rad/s
The centripetal force required for the circular r = 0.2 m
motion is provided by this frictional force.  s = 0.2

Conical Pendulum
A small block of mass m is rotated in a horizontal circle with the help of
a string of length  connected to m. The other end of the string is fixed to
a point O vertically above the centre of the circle so that the string is
always inclined with the vertical at an angle . This arrangement is known
as a conical pendulum.
From the force diagram of the block :
Along the vertical : T cos  = mg . . . . (i)
Net force towards centre : T sin  = ma
T sin  = m2 . . . . (ii)
From (i) and (ii), we have,

g tan  g tan  g
2   
r  sin   cos 

2  cos 
 time period = T   2
 g

Note : (i) If h is the height of point O above the centre of the circle, then time period = 2 h / g
(ii) For a conical pendulum, 2 cos  = g
  g /  (Because cos  < 1)

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Illustration - 19 A 4 kg block in given figure is attached to a vertical rod by means

of two strings. When the system rotates about the axis of rod, the strings are extended
as shown.:
(a) How many rev/min must the system make in order that the tension in the
upper cord shall be 60 N ?
(b) What is then the tension in the lower cord ?

SOLUTION :
Let  be the angular velocity of rotation of rod.

1. Along vertical :
T1 cos  = mg + T2 cos  . . . . (i) Substituting the values of cos , sin , r and

2. Net force towards centre : T1 = 60 N, m = 4 kg in (i) and (ii),

T1 sin  + T2 sin  we get :
= m  2r (centripetal force) . . . (ii)  = 3.77 rad/s ;
Given : cos = 1/1.25 = 4/5 n =  /(2) = 36 rev/s and
sin  = 3/5 T2 = 10 N
 r = 1.25 sin  = 0.75 m
T1 = 60 N and m = 4 kg

Illustration - 20 A small block of mass m moving on the inside of a smooth fixed hollow hemisphere of
radius r, describes a horizontal circle at a distance of r/2 below the centre of the sphere. Find the time period
and the force with which the block pushes against the hemisphere.

SOLUTION :
Let O be the centre of hemisphere and the block be at A.

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Balancing vertical forces ;

N cos  = mg
 N = 2 mg . . . . . . (ii)
Combining (i) and (ii), we get :
2 mg = m 2 r
OB = r/2 and OA = r
 cos  = 1/2 2g
 
  = 60 r
Take one axis along the radius of circle (AB) r
i.e. horizontal and the other axis vertical.  T  2
2g
Net force towards centre = N sin 
Force with which the block pushes the
= m 2(AB) hemisphere = 2 mg
N sin 60 = m 2 r sin 60
Note that this situation is very similar to a
 N = m 2 r . . . . . . (i) conical pendulum.

Illustration - 21 (CAR ON A LEVEL CURVE) A flat curve on a highway has a radius of 100 m and a car
goes around this curve with a constant velocity. If the coefficient of static friction is 0.2, what should be the
maximum speed of the car to prevent sliding ?
SOLUTION :
Let v be the maximum speed of the car. When
the car goes around a curve, it has a tendency
to skid sideways i.e. away from the centre of
the curve. Due to this tendency, static friction
acts towards the centre and provides the
centripetal force necessary to go around the
curve. From force diagram :
The force of static friction has a maximum value s R = mv2/r
of sR. This corresponds to maximum speed s mg = mv2/r
of the car.  v   s r g  14 m / s

Illustration - 22 (CAR ON A BANKED CURVE) A highway curve of radius r is to be banked so that a car
travelling at speed v will have no friction acting on the tyres. At what angle should it be banked ?

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SOLUTION :
When a car goes on a level curve (as in last
Ex.), the centripetal force required for motion
along the arc must be provided by the force of
friction. This causes a great wear and tear on
the tyres. To reduce this strain on the tyres and
not have to rely upon friction, the curves on
the roads are banked as shown.
(ii) N sin  : (horizontal) towards the centre of the
curve.
N cos  = mg . . . . . . (i)

N sin provides the necessary centripetal force

AB = width of road. The figure shows back and hence friction is not required.
view of the car taking a turn towards left.
mv 2
Due to banking, the normal reaction between N sin   . . . . . . (ii)
r
car and the road is not vertical now and has
v2
two components: From (i) and (ii), we get : tan  
rg
(i) N cos  : (vertical)
 v2 
   tan1  
 rg 
Illustration - 23 A small sphere of mass m is tied to the top of the smooth inclined
plane with the help of a string of length  . The string and the inclined plane make an
angle  with horizontal. The inclined plane is rotated with a constant angular velocity
 about the vertical axis passing through the end of the string fixed to the plane.
(a) Find the maximum value of  so that the sphere maintains contact with the inclined
plane.
(b) Find the ratio between the tension in the string and the normal reaction between
sphere and the plane if  = 37,  = 2 rad/s, = 2.45 m. (g = 10 m/s2)

SOLUTION :
The forces acting on the sphere are : tension, (ii) The vertical components of T and N balance
weight (mg) and the normal reaction. the weight of sphere.
Take a horizontal axis passing through the
sphere and the centre of the circle which it de-
scribes.
Take the other axis passing vertically through
m.
(i) The components of tension (T) and normal
reaction (N) along radial axis combine
to provide the centripetal force.

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T = mg sin + m 2 cos2 

Multiplying (i) by cos and (ii) by sin and
Along vertical axis : subtracting, N = mg cos – m 2  cos  sin
T sin  + N cos  = mg . . . . (i) 
(a) To maintain contact, N must be positive :
N > 0  mg cos  – m 2  cos  sin  > 0
g
    sin 

(b)  = 2 rad/s,  = 2.45 m

 2  4  2.45  9.8  g
Along radial axis :
Hence
T cos   N sin  = m2 ( cos ) . . . . (ii)
T mg sin   m 2 cos 2  31
Multiplying (i) by sin and (ii) by cos  
2
N mg sin   m  cos  sin  8
NOW ATTEMPT IN-CHAPTER EXERCISE-C BEFORE PROCEEDING AHEAD IN THIS EBOOK

APPLICATION OF NEWTONS LAWS-II Section - 5

While analysing problems which involve multiple accelerating pulleys and strings, we have to set up separate equations
relating accelerations of various blocks. This is done by relating coordinates of moving blocks and pulleys with the
lengths of the strings. As the lengths of the strings are constant, the accelerations are related to each other with an
equation. Study the following illustrations carefully.

Illustration - 24
Find the acceleration of blocks in the figure. The pulley and the strings are massless.

SOLUTION :

Let A = acceleration of block M and pulley. L=X+Xx

a = acceleration of m.
L=2Xx
Let x, X be the co-ordinates of m and pulley as Differentiating twice with respect to time,
shown. O = 2A  a
 a = 2A . . . . (i)
Note: We can generalise this result. If one end of a
string passing over a moving pulley is fixed,
the acceleration of other end is twice the
acceleration of pulley.
From force diagrams of m and M, we have
Length of string passing over the pulley is:

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T = ma . . . .(ii) 2F
F
and F – 2T = MA . . . .(iii) A and a   M  4m 
M  4m
Comparing (i), (ii) and (iii) we get :

Illustration - 25 In the arrangement shown in the figure, the bodies have

masses ; m0 = 2 kg, m1 = 4 kg, m2 = 1 kg. Find the accelerations of blocks m0,
m, and m2 assuming no frictional forces and massless pulleys and strings.

SOLUTION :
Let a1 and a2 be the acceleration of m1 and m2 respectively
in downward direction.
Let a0 be the acceleration of m0 towards right

m1 g  T = m1 a1 ; m2 g  T = m2a2 ; 2T = m0 a0 . . . . . . (i)

Let us now try to find a relation between the

acceleration of blocks (m1, m2) and the For the other string, x0  X  
acceleration of hanging pulley.
Eliminate X to get : x1  x2  2 x0  L  2
Taking the horizontal table as the reference,
let X, x0, x1 , x2 be the position of pulley and On differentiating this equation twice with
blocks as shown. The total length L of the respect to time we get :
string passing over the hanging pulley is sum a1  a2  2a0  0 . . . . (ii)
of the left and right portions Note that the second derivative of x0 is
substituted as a0 because x0 decreases as
the block m0 moves towards right. The
derivatives of decreasing coordinates are
substituted as a while the derivatives of
increasing coordinates are substituted as +a.
On combining (i) and (ii), we can solve for T,
a1, a2 and A.

a1 = 11g/13 m/s2
a2 = 5g/13 m/s2
L = (x1  X) + (x2  X) (see figure)
A = 8g/13 m/s2
 x1 + x2  2X = L

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Classes

Illustration - 26 Find the acceleration of the blocks :

If m1  1 kg , m2  2 kg , m3  0.6 , m4  4 kg , g  10 m / s 2

SOLUTION :
Let a1, a2, a3 and a4 be the downward accelerations
of m1, m2, m3 and m4 respectively.
From Newton’s Second law on masses :
Eliminating XP and XQ, we get :
1g  T  1a1 . . . .(i)
x1  x2  x3  x4 = constant
2g  T = 2a2 . . . .(ii)
0.5 g  T  0.5a3 . . . .(iii) Differentially twice we get :

4 g  T  4 a4 . . . (iv) a1  a2  a3  a4  0 . . . . (v)

Where a1  a2  a3  a4 are downward accelera-

tion of respective masses.
Let l1, l2, L be the length of strings connecting of Solving these five equations, we get :
blocks and pulleys. g 7g 17 g 11g
a1  ,a2  , a3  , a4 
x1  X P  x2  X p  l1 15 15 15 15
2 14
x3  X Q  x4  X1  l2  a1  m / s 2 up , a2  m / s 2 down
3 3
X P  XQ  L 34 22
a3  m / s 2 up , a4  m / s 2 down
3 3

PSEUDO FORCES Section - 6

Consider an observer S standing inside a compartment which is moving with an acceleration of magnitude A.
Observer S cannot apply Newton’s second law of motion (F = ma) on a mass m directly without any
modification. If S applies the equation F = ma on a mass m, then,
a = acceleration of m relative to the compartment where S is standing.

F = net force on m which includes all the real forces (tension, weight, normal reaction, friction, . . . etc.) plus
an extra force called as pseudo force.
Pseudo Force arises as an effect of acceleration of the reference frame in which observer is standing. Its
direction is opposite to the direction of acceleration A. Its magnitude is the product of mass m and the
acceleration A.

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Important Notes on Pseudo Forces

 Pseudo Forces will arise only in the situation when we try to analyse the forces acting on the body
relative to an accelerating reference frame.
 Any problem involving application of Newton’s laws can be solved without the method of pseudo
forces. The method of pseudo forces should be used only when it offers some distinct advantage.

Illustration - 27 An observer is standing inside a lift moving upwards with an acceleration A. A mass m is
lying on the floor of the lift. Find the normal reaction between the block and the floor.
SOLUTION :
Analysis of motion of mass m by the ob-
server S : Force diagram of m from inside the lift will
include normal reaction, weight and a pseudo
force of magnitude mA acting opposite to the
acceleration of the lift.
As block is at rest relative to lift, these forces
must balance each other.
upward force = downward force
For the observer S : R = mg + mA
The acceleration of mass m = acceleration of
m relative to the lift = 0 m/s2

Illustration - 28 A block of mass m is placed on a wedge of mass M. What

force should act on the wedge towards right so that m does not slide on the
surface of the wedge ? Assume all surfaces are smooth.
SOLUTION :

Let A = acceleration of wedge and the block

towards right. Method 2 : (Analysis from the Wedge)
Both will have same acceleration as there is If the motion of m is analysed from the view
no relative slipping between them point of an observer standing on the wedge
Method 1 : (Analysis from Ground) (i.e. relative to the wedge),

R cos  = mg Its acceleration is 0 m/s2 and the forces act-

R sin  = mA ing on it are :
its weight, the normal reaction and
 A = g tan a pseudo force of magnitude mA towards
left.

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R cos  = mg
R sin  = mA
Dividing, we get :
A = g tan 
The force required to impart the accelera-
tion A is :
F   M  m  A   M  m  g tan 
As m is at rest, forces must balance each other
along both directions.

SUBJECTIVE SOLVED EXAMPLES

Example - 1 A block of mass m is placed on the inclined surface of wedge

of mass M as shown. Find the acceleration of wedge if the frictional forces
are negligible.
SOLUTION :
As the block (m) is all the time in contact with
the wedge (M), their relative motion should be 
The net acceleration of block a  abw  aw 
parallel to the surfaces which are in contact. is the vector sum of its relative acceleration ar
Let ar be the (down the incline) acceleration of and the acceleration of wedge A. For the block,
block m relative to the wedge and A be the we take X-axis along the incline and Y-axis
acceleration of wedge (relative to ground) normal to the incline.
towards left. The wedge experiences a normal
reaction (push) R from the block. The
horizontal component (R sin ) of this normal
reaction causes the wedge to accelerate
towards left.

Fx = max  mg sin 
= m(ar – A cos ) . . . . (ii)

Fy = may  mg cos  – R

R sin  = MA . . . . . . (i) = m (A sin  ) . . . . (iii)

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We can solve (i), (ii) and (iii) to get :

A
mg sin  cos   m  M  g sin 
and ar 
M  m sin 2  M  m sin2 

Example - 2 Two blocks in contact with each other are sliding down on an inclined
board. The mass of first block is m1 = 2 Kg and that of second block is m2 = 3 Kg. The
coefficient of friction between the block and the board is 1 = 0.1 for the block 1 and 2
= 0.2 for the block 2. The angle of inclination of the board is  = 45. Determine :
(a) acceleration of blocks and
(b) force F with which the blocks press against each other.
SOLUTION :
Consider the force diagrams of m1 and m2.

R = normal reaction between m1 and m2

N1, N2 are normal reactions between blocks   m  m2  sin    1m1  2 m2  cos  
a 1 g
and the inclined plane  m 1  m2 
Balancing forces perpendicular to the a = 5.82 m/s 2

plane :
Substituting the expression for a, we get :
N1 = m1g cos N2 = m2g cos
R
 2  1  m1m2 g cos   0.83 N
For forces parallel to the plane :
m1  m2
m1g sin  – R – 1N1 = m1a
m2g sin  + R – 2N2 = m2a Note : In this question, if 1 > 2 then R will come
(m1 + m1)g sin  – 1m1g cos  out to be negative. This implies that the blocks
will slide down without touching each other.
– 2m2g cos  = (m1 + m2)a
They will get separated.

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Classes

Example - 3 A mass A (600 gm) is placed on a smooth table with a string at-
tached to it.The string goes over a frictionless pulley and is connected to another
mass B (100 gm). At t = 0, the mass A is at a distance of 100 cm from the end and
moving with a speed of 90 cm/s towards left. After what time and with what speed
will the mass A reach the pulley at the right edge of the table ? (g = 980 cm/s2)

SOLUTION :
From the force diagrams of A and B, accel-
When A reaches the edge of the table after
erations of A and B can be calculated.
time t, its displacement is s.
s = + 100 cm ;
a = g/7 ;
u = – 90 cm/s
 100 = –90 (t) + 1/2 (g/7) (t2)
 t = 2 seconds
N = m1g
Also v = u + at = –90 + g/7 (2) = 190 cm/s
m2g  T = m2a
T = m1a So the block will reach the edge of the table
after 2s with a speed of 190 cm/s.
m2 g 100 g g
 a  
m1  m2 700 7

Example - 4 Two 100 gm blocks hang at the ends of a light flexible cord passing over a small frictionless
pulley. A 40 gm block rests on the block on right and removed after 2 seconds.
(a) How far will each block move in the first second after 40 gm block is removed ?
(b) What was the tension in the cord before the 40 gm block was removed ?
(c) What was the tension in the cord supporting the pulley before 40 gm block was removed ?
SOLUTION :
When two blocks of masses m1 and m2 are hanging from the ends of a string passing over a fixed pulley, their
acceleration is :
m  m1  M  m   M g  40 g  g
a 2 g and the tension is : a
m2  m1 M m M 40  200 6

2m1m2 v = u + a t = 0 + (g/6) (2)

T g
m1  m2 = 980/3 cm/s

From t = 0 to t = 2 : Hence at t = 2, left block is moving up with

980/3 cm/s and right block is moving down
(M = 100 gm, m = 40 gm) with 980/3 cm/s.
Tension in the string during this interval

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The distance covered = s

2M  m  M  g
T  1.143 N = (980/3)  1 = 326.6 cm = 3.226 m.
m  2M
Tension in the cord = weight of each block × 2
From t = 2 to t = 3 :
= 2 Mg = 1.96 N
When m is removed, blocks move with a constant
velocity.

Example - 5 In the figure, M moves on a plane inclined at  = 30 with

the horizontal. The masses are M = 16 Kg, m0 = 5 Kg and m = 4 Kg. The
system is released from rest at t = 0. The string connecting m and m0 is cut
at t = 1 second. Find the further time taken by M to come back to its original
position on the inclined plane.

SOLUTION :
From t = 0 to t = 1 :
As M sin  < m + m0, Velocity of M at t = 1 is v = 0 + at = g/25.
M moves up the plane and (m + m0) move After t = 1 :
down.
When the string connecting m and m0 is cut,
M sin  > m
 M will have a downward acceleration.
The magnitude of acceleration is :
M sin   m g
a g downwards.
M m 5
To reach back to its original position,
T  Mg sin  = Ma
Displacement = s = –g/50 and u = g/50
(m + m0)g  T = (m + m0)a
s = ut + 1/2 at2
a
 m  m0  M sin   g  g –g/50 = (g/25) t – (g/10) t2
m  m0  M 25 5t2 – 2t – 1 = 0
d = 1/2 at2 = g/50  t = (1 + 6)/5 = 0.69 seconds

Example - 6 Two blocks of masses m = 5 kg and M = 10 Kg are connected by a

string passing over a pulley B as shown. Another string connects the centre of pulley B
to the floor and passes over another pulley A as shown. An upward force F is applied at
the centre of pulley A. Both the pulleys are massless.
Find the acceleration of blocks m and M if F is :
(a) 100 N
(b) 300 N
(c) 500 N (take g = 10 m/s2)

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SOLUTION : As T < mg and T < Mg, both the blocks will

remain stationary on the floor.
Let T0 = tension in the string passing over A
(b) T = F/4 = 75 N.
T = tension in the string passing over B
As T < Mg and T > mg, M will remain station-
ary on the floor, whereas m will move.
Acceleration of m
T  mg 75  50
=   5 m/s2 up.
m 5
(c) T = F/4 = 125 N.
2 T0 = F and 2 T = T0
As T > mg and T > Mg, both the blocks will
 T = F/4 accelerate upwards.
 The tension acting on the blocks is F/4 T  mg
Acceleration of m =  15 m/s2
(a) T = F/4 = 25 N. m
Weights of blocks are : mg = 50 N T  Mg
Acceleration of M =  2.5 m/s2
Mg = 100 N M

Example - 7 At the moment t = 0, the force F = at is applied to a small body of

mass m resting on a smooth horizontal plane (a is a constant). The permanent
direction of this force forms an angle  with the horizontal (see figure). Find :
(a) the velocity of the body at the moment of its breaking off the plane ;
(b) the distance traversed by the body up to this moment.

SOLUTION :
 t = t0 = mg/(asin ) at break-off.
From (i), we have m dv = at cos  dt.

Integrate both sides.

v t
m  dv   a cos  tdt
0 0

at 2 cos 
 v t   . . . .(ii)
2m
At break-off, velocity
Along horizontal :
a cos   m2 g 2 
at cos  = m dv/dt . . . .(i)  v0   
2 m  a 2 sin2  
Along vertical :
 mg 2 cos  
R + at sin  = mg  v  t0    
2
 2a sin  
At break-off, R = 0

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dx at 2 cos  a cos  3 a cos  m3 g 3

From (ii), we have v  t    x  t0   t 
dt 2m 6m 0 6m a3 sin3 
x t a cos  2
 0 dx  0 2m
t dt m2 g 3 cos 
x  t0  
6a 2 sin3 

Example - 8 A small bar starts sliding down an inclined plane forming an angle  with the horizontal. The
friction coefficient depends on the distance x covered as  = kx, where k is a constant. Find the distance
covered by the bar till it stops, and its maximum velocity over this distance.

SOLUTION :
V  2 x sin   kx 2 cos   g
It can be seen that the velocity again becomes
2 tan 
zero after covering a distance x =
k
To find the maximum velocity, we can maximise
the expression under the square root sign by
treating it as a quadratic polynomial in terms of
x.
Along the incline,
[For y = ax2 + bx +c, y(max)
mg sin   kx mg cos  = ma
= (4ac  b2)/4a]
where a is the acceleration of bar.
We will write a = v dv/dx, as the acceleration 4 sin2 
is expressed as a function of x.  Vmax .  g
4k cos 
v x
0 v dv  
0
 g sin   k x g cos   dx g
  sin  tan  
k

Example - 9 A small monkey of mass m = 20 kg is climbing up a rope with an

acceleration 2 m/s2 relative to rope. The rope passes over a fixed pulley and carries
a wooden bar of mass M= 5 kg as shown in the figure. Find the acceleration of
monkey and the bar.
SOLUTION :
Let T = tension in the rope
A = acceleration of bar in upwards direction.
It means that the rope gripped by monkey will have a downward acceleration of
A m/s2. The monkey will have a net downward acceleration of (A – 2) m/s2.

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Dynamics of a Particle Vidyamandir Classes

Solving these equations, we get :

A = 7.6 m/s2

The acceleration of monkey

= (7.6 – 2) m/s2
= 5.6 m/s2 downwards

T – Mg = MA
mg – T = m (A – 2)

Example - 10 Find the acceleration of wedge in the following figures.

Assume frictionless contacts.

SOLUTION :
The acceleration a r of block relative to
wedge will be parallel to the horizontal con-
tact plane between them. Solving these equation we get :
The net acceleration of block will be the sum
of ar and acceleration A of wedge.
M g sin + Rsin = MA
mg – R = m (A sin)
0 = m (ar  Acos)

 M  m  g sin 
A
M  m sin 2 

Example - 11 At the moment t = 0 a stationary particle of mass m experiences a time-dependent force F =

at (  t), where a is a constant vector,  is the time during which the given force acts. Find :
(a) the momentum of the particle when the action of the force discontinued:
(b) The distance covered by the particle while the force acted.
SOLUTION :
We can see that F = 0 at t = 0 and at t = 
The force acts from t = 0 to t = 
(a) From Newton’s Second Law, we have :

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 Vidyamandir Classes Dynamics of a Particle

dp/dt = F dx
 m
dt

 a t 2 / 2  t 3 / 3 
 dp   Fdt

 
P   a t   t  v  t3 
0 m  dx  a   t 2   dt
0  2 3

 0
 t 2  t3  a 3
 a    
 2 3 6   t4 
0 mx    a t 3  
(b) F = at (  t) = m dv/dt  6 12  0
v t
m  dv  a  t   t  dt a 4
0 0  x   
12m
 
mv  t   a t 2 / 2  t 3 / 3 
Example - 12 A block of mass m lying on a horizontal surface (coefficient
of static friction = s) is to be brought into motion by a pulling force F. At
what angle  with the horizontal should the force F be applied so that its
magnitude is minimum ? Also find this minimum magnitude.
SOLUTION :
Let us first calculate the force F required to s mg s mg
 F  
bring m into motion in terms of angle . cos    s sin  1   s2 cos    
Proceeding along the steps of example 13, we
get, Where tan  = s and cos(  ) = cos cos
+ sin sin (from trigonometry)
F is minimum if cos (  ) is maximum. Hence
F is minimum for
 = tan1s and Fmin = mg sin
To bring m into motion with least effort, force
should be applied at an angle tan1s and
should have a magnitude equal to :
N = mg  F sin 
 mg
F cos  = sN Fmin  mg sin   s
F cos  = s (mg  F sin ) 1  s2

Example - 13 What is the minimum value of force F that can be

applied to the bar C to keep bodies A and B stationary relative to the
bar C ? The masses of the bodies A and B are equal, and the coefficient
of friction between the bar and the bodies is equal to . The masses of
the pulley and the threads are negligible, the friction in the pulley is
absent. There is no friction between C and the floor.

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SOLUTION :
For the blocks to be stationary relative to M,
they must have acceleration which is same as
that of M.
For block B
Let a(min) be the minimum acceleration for
which blocks remain at rest relative to M. It N2 = ma
means that for a < a(min), the block A will mg = T + f2
slip right and block B will slip down relative to
M. Hence at a = a (min), the slipping ten- For the system (A + B + C)
dency is as shown. Fmin   M  2m  a

At slipping point :
a = a (min), f1 =  N1, f2 =  N2

On combining all the equations, we get :

1   
Fmin   M  2m  g
1   
Exercise
Find the maximum force Fmax so that the
blocks do not slip relative to M.
(Hint : For Fmax, the slipping tendency is reversed
For block A
and hence frictional forces are also reversed).
T – f1 = ma
1   
N1 = mg Ans : Fmax   M  2m  g  
 1  

Example - 14 A car moves with a constant tangential acceleration a = 2/3 m/s2 along a horizontal surface
t
circumscribing a circle of radius r = 40 m. The coefficient of sliding friction between the wheels of the car and
the surface is s = 0.20. What distance will the car ride without sliding if at the initial moment of time its
velocity is equal to zero ?(take g = 10m/s2)

SOLUTION :
mv 2
The car is moving with both radial and fr  ft = ma t
r
tangential acceleration. These accelerations are
parallel to the horizontal surface and hence they
are provided by the frictional force. The
frictional force f has radial (fr) and tangential
(ft) components.

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 Vidyamandir Classes Dynamics of a Particle

And for zero initial velocity,

To avoid sliding, f  f r2  ft2   s N
we have v2 = 2 atS
where N = mg (on a horizontal road).
 At sliding point, fr2 + ft2 = s2 m2g2
 S
 s2 g 2  at2  r 2  40 2 m
Substitutive for fr and ft, we get : 4at2

 
V 4  s2 g 2  at2 r 2

Example - 15 (CYCLIST ON A CURVE) A cyclist goes around a horizontal curve of radius r with a
speed v. Find the angle  with the vertical made by the cyclist while going around the curve.

SOLUTION :
As the cyclist turns along the curve, he has a cyclist about the centre of gravity becomes
tendency to skid away from the centre of the zero.
curve. Due this tendency, a static friction arises
and acts on the tyres towards the centre. This Hence taking moments (torque) about
force of friction provides the necessary CG,we get ;
centripetal force for circular motion.
N  sin = f  cos
Where  = distance between CG and the point
of contact with ground.
Combining the equations, we get :
f v2
  tan 
N rg
 v2 
   tan1  
 rg 
From force diagram : Note : If  is the coefficient of friction, the cyclist will
mv 2 skid if :
N = mg and f 
r mv 2
  mg  v  rg
To maintain balance, the cyclist leans by an r
angle  away from vertical towards centre.
Due to this inclination, the net torque on the
Example - 16 (CAR ON A LEVEL CURVE) The centre of gravity of a car is at height h and the distance
between its wheel is 2a. What is the maximum speed with which this car can go around a level curve of radius
r without overturning ?
SOLUTION :
When the car takes a turn around the curve, its tendency to skid away from centre creates a static friction f
towards centre providing the centripetal force.

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To maintain balance, the net torque on the car

mv 2
f  . . . . . . (i) about centre of gravity (G) must be zero.
r
Ni a + f h = N0 a . . . . . . .(iii)
Combining (i), (ii) and (iii), we get :

mg  v 2h 
Ni  1  
2  arg 
The car begins to overturn when inner wheels
leave the ground i.e. Ni becomes zero.

 v2h 
 1    0
 arg 
Let Ni and N0 be the normal reactions on the
inner and outer wheels of the car. The weight
ar g
acts from the centre of gravity G. Hence v  is the maximum speed to
h
Balancing vertical forces :
avoid overturning.
Ni + N0 = mg . . . . . . .(ii)

NOW ATTEMPT OBJECTIVE WORKSHEET TO COMPLETE THIS EBOOK

THINGS TO REMEMBER

1. Analysis of a problem :
The following example illustrates the general approach for the problems involving the application of IInd law.
The main steps while analysing such problems are :
(i) Draw the force diagram of each body, showing all the forces acting on it.
(ii) Identify the direction of acceleration for each body and show it by an arrow (dotted or double-lined)
drawn slightly away from the force-diagram. We can call it ‘acceleration diagram’.
(iii) Taking one axis along the direction of acceleration and the other perpendicular to it, resolve the forces
into respective components.
(iv) Form two equations from each force diagram :
net force in the direction of acceleration = ma
forces which are perpendicular to the direction of acceleration must balance each other.
2. (a) The maximum speed of the car to prevent sliding on a horizontal curve :
v  s r g

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 Vidyamandir Classes Dynamics of a Particle

(b) The angle of a banked curve with horizontal so that no friction acts on the tyres is :

v2
  tan 1
rg

3. Pseudo Force arises as an effect of acceleration of the reference frame in which observer is standing. Its
direction is opposite to the direction of acceleration A. Its magnitude is the product of mass m and the
acceleration A.
4. The maximum with which a car can go around a level curve of radius r without overturning is :
arg
v
h

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My Chapter Notes

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Illustration - 1

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