Engineering Physics X IA

Self Assessment MEMO

1: Linear Momentum and Collisions

Dr. J. Changundega

2023

1. Three guys of almost equal mass sit on a raft in such a manner that they can be
modelled as sitting at 1.0 m, 5.0 m and 6.0 m along the x axis. This is illustrated
in the diagram. Ignoring the mass of the boat, determine the position of the centre
of mass (CM).

A. x = 2.0 m
B. x = 3.0 m
C. x = 4.0 m
D. x = 5.0 m

Solution
∑𝑖 𝑚𝑖 𝑥𝑖 1𝑚 + 5𝑚 + 6𝑚
𝑥𝐶𝑀 = = = 4.0 𝑚
𝑀 3𝑚

2. A 65.0 kg object moving along the x axis in the +x direction is stopped through a
constant frictional force of magnitude 25.0 N which acts on the object for a
duration of 15.0 s. What was the object initial velocity?
A. 4.68 m/s
B. 5.77 m/s
C. -5.77 m/s
D. -4.68 m/s
Solution
System: Object (Non-Isolated)
Initial state: Time t = 0
Final state: Time t = 15 s
1
 𝐼⃗ = ∆𝑝⃗ = ∑ 𝐹𝑥 ∆𝑡
𝑚(𝑣⃗𝑓 − 𝑣⃗𝑖 ) = ∑ 𝐹𝑥 ∆𝑡
∑ 𝐹𝑥 ∆𝑡
𝑣⃗𝑓 − 𝑣⃗𝑖 =
𝑚
∑ 𝐹𝑥 ∆𝑡
𝑣⃗𝑖 = 𝑣⃗𝑓 −
𝑚
(−25)(15)
𝑣⃗𝑖 = 0 − = 5.77 𝑚/𝑠
65

3. Object A of mass 7 150 kg is moving alone on a horizontal frictionless surface at

15.0 m/s. Object B (mass = 3 350 kg) then falls on top of Object A and they
continue travelling together. What is the new speed of the combined objects?
A. 10.2 m/s
B. 17.4 m/s
C. 13.1 m/s
D. 9.95 m/s

Solution
System: Objects A and B (Isolated)
Initial state: Object A moving alone
Final state: Combined Objects A and B moving together after Object B lands

𝑝⃗𝑖 = 𝑝⃗𝑓
In the x direction,
𝑚𝐴 𝑣𝐴 𝑖 + 𝑚𝐵 𝑣𝐵 𝑖 = (𝑚𝐴 + 𝑚𝐵 )𝑣𝑓
(7 150)(15) + (3 350)(0) = 10 500𝑣𝑓
(7 150)(15)
𝑣𝑓 = = 10.2 𝑚/𝑠
10 500

4. A ball of mass 0.145 kg travelling horizontally at 31.0 m/s is hit by a tennis

racquet and the ball rebounds from the racquet at a speed of 46.0 m/s, again
travelling horizontally. If the ball ad racquet stay in contact for 5 ms, calculate
the magnitude of the average force experienced by the ball.
A. 0.435 N
B. 435 N
C. 2.233 N
D. 2 233 N

Solution
System: Ball (Non-Isolated)
Initial state: Ball on its way to the racquet
Final state: Ball returning from the racquet

𝐼⃗ = ∆𝑝⃗ = ∑ 𝐹𝑥 ∆𝑡
𝑚(𝑣⃗𝑓 − 𝑣⃗𝑖 ) = ∑ 𝐹𝑥 ∆𝑡
𝑚(𝑣⃗𝑓 − 𝑣⃗𝑖 ) 0.145(−46 − 31)
∑ 𝐹𝑥 = = = −2 233 𝑁
∆𝑡 5 × 10−3
2
5. Particle 1 of mass 0.440 kg moving East at 3.80 m/s collides elastically with
stationary Particle 2 of mass 0.220 kg. What is the velocity of each particle after
the collision?
A. v1 = 1.27 m/s East, v2 = 5.07 m/s East
B. v1 = 1.35 m/s West, v2 = 3.36 m/s East
C. v1 = 2.48 m/s East, v2 = 1.07 m/s West
D. None of the other answers

Solution
System: The two particles (Isolated system)
Initial state: Before collision
Final state: After collision

Let the Eastward direction be the +x direction.

𝑝⃗𝑖 = 𝑝⃗𝑓
In the x direction,
𝑚1 𝑣1 𝑖 + 𝑚2 𝑣2 𝑖 = 𝑚1 𝑣1 𝑓 + 𝑚2 𝑣2 𝑓
(0.440)(3.8) + (0.220)(0) = (0.440)𝑣1 𝑓 + (0.220)𝑣2 𝑓
1.672 = 0.44𝑣1 𝑓 + 0.22𝑣2 𝑓 (𝑖)

And using the relative velocity relationship for an elastic collision,

𝑣1 𝑖 − 𝑣2 𝑖 = − (𝑣1 𝑓 − 𝑣2 𝑓 )
3.8 − 0 = − (𝑣1 𝑓 − 𝑣2 𝑓 )
3.8 = 𝑣2 𝑓 − 𝑣1 𝑓
𝑣2 𝑓 = 3.8 + 𝑣1 𝑓 (𝑖𝑖)

Substituting this 𝑣2 𝑓 into equation (i),

1.672 = 0.44𝑣1 𝑓 + 0.22 (3.8 + 𝑣1 𝑓 )
1.672 = 0.44𝑣1 𝑓 + 0.836 + 0.22𝑣1 𝑓
0.836 = 0.66𝑣1 𝑓
0.836
𝑣1 𝑓 = = 1.27 𝑚/𝑠
0.66

From equation (ii),

𝑣2 𝑓 = 3.8 + 𝑣1 𝑓
= 3.8 + 1.27 = 5.07 m/s

6. In a ballistic pendulum experiment, bullet number 1 causes the block to reach a

maximum height h1 = 2.6 cm. A second bullet of the same mass causes the
pendulum to swing twice as high, (h2 = 5.2 cm). The second bullet was travelling
how many times faster than the first bullet?
A. 2.26 times
B. 1.41 times
C. 3.58 times
D. None of the other answers 3
 Solution
From the notes (Slide 11), the speed v of the bullet is related to the maximum
height through

𝑚𝑏𝑢𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑡 + 𝑚𝑏𝑙𝑜𝑐𝑘
𝑣=[ ] √2𝑔ℎ
𝑚𝑏𝑢𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑡

For the first bullet,

𝑚𝑏𝑢𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑡 + 𝑚𝑏𝑙𝑜𝑐𝑘 𝑚𝑏𝑢𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑡 + 𝑚𝑏𝑙𝑜𝑐𝑘
𝑣1 = [ ] √2𝑔ℎ1 = [[ ] √2𝑔] √ℎ1
𝑚𝑏𝑢𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑡 𝑚𝑏𝑢𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑡

For the second bullet,

𝑚𝑏𝑢𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑡 + 𝑚𝑏𝑙𝑜𝑐𝑘 𝑚𝑏𝑢𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑡 + 𝑚𝑏𝑙𝑜𝑐𝑘
𝑣2 = [ ] √2𝑔ℎ2 = [[ ] √2𝑔] √ℎ2
𝑚𝑏𝑢𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑡 𝑚𝑏𝑢𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑡

Dividing the last two equations,

𝑣1 ℎ1 2.6 1
=√ =√ =√
𝑣2 ℎ2 5.2 2
𝑣2 = (√2)𝑣2 = 1.41𝑣1

7. A 0.540 kg object falls from 2.15 m above the floor then it bounces up to 1.65 m high. The
impulse experienced by the object is
A. 7.55 N s
B. 3.38 N s
C. 6.58 N s
D. None of the other answers

Solution
On the way down,
𝑣𝑦𝑓 2 = 𝑣𝑦𝑖 2 + 2𝑎𝑦 (∆𝑦)
𝑣𝑦𝑓 2 = 0 + 2(−9.8)(−2.15)
𝑣𝑦𝑓 = √2(−9.8)(−1.75) = −6.49 m/s
The ball’s velocity is negative since it is travelling downwards

On the way back up,

𝑣𝑦𝑓 2 = 𝑣𝑦𝑖 2 + 2𝑎𝑦 (∆𝑦)
0 = 𝑣𝑦𝑖 2 + 2(−9.8)(1.65)
𝑣𝑦𝑖 = √2(9.8)(1.5) = 5.69 m/s

System: Ball (Non-Isolated)

Initial state: Ball on its way down to the floor
Final state: Ball on its way up from the floor

4
 𝐼⃗ = ∆𝑝⃗ = 𝑚𝑣⃗𝑓 − 𝑚𝑣⃗𝑖
= 𝑚(𝑣⃗𝑓 − 𝑣⃗𝑖 )
= 0.54[5.69 − (−6.49)]
= 6.58 N s

8. The graphs in the diagram show the variation in the magnitude of force with time for an object
involved in 3 possible interactions.

Which interaction involves more impulse on the object?

A. (a)
B. (b)
C. (c)
D. None of the other answers

Solution
𝐼⃗ = ∑ 𝐹𝑥 ∆𝑡 = 𝐴𝑟𝑒𝑎
In interaction (a),
𝐼⃗ = ∑ 𝐹𝑥 ∆𝑡 = (2𝐹0 )(6𝑡0 ) = 12𝐹0 𝑡0
In interaction (b),
𝐼⃗ = ∑ 𝐹𝑥 ∆𝑡 = (4𝐹0 )(3𝑡0 ) = 12𝐹0 𝑡0
In interaction (c),
1
𝐼⃗ = ∑ 𝐹𝑥 ∆𝑡 = 2 (2𝐹0 )(12𝑡0 ) = 12𝐹0 𝑡0
Therefore, the impulse is the same in all 3 interactions. None involves more impulse.

9. Two objects of masses 5.0 kg and 10 kg object both rest on a smooth horizontal
surface and are fastened to the ends of a light compressed spring as illustrated in
the diagram. The spring is released and the objects head in opposite directions.
The 5.0 kg object moves at 8.0 m/s to the left. If the motion of the spring falling is
negligible compared to that of the objects, what is the velocity of object B?

A. 3.0 m/s to the right

B. 4.0 m/s to the right
C. 5.0 m/s to the right
D. None of the other answers

5
 Solution
System: Objects A and B and the spring (Isolated)
Initial state: Objects statinary wiith the spring compressed
Final state: Objects mviing away from each other after release

𝑝⃗𝑖 = 𝑝⃗𝑓
0 = 𝑚𝐴 𝑣𝐴 𝑓 + 𝑚𝐵 𝑣𝐵 𝑓
0 = (5)(−8) + 10𝑣𝐵 𝑓
40
𝑣𝐵 𝑓 = = 4 𝑚/𝑠
10

10. The diagram shows the behaviour of an object just after it explodes intothree pieces.

What was the speed of the object before it exploded?

A. v3
B. v3/3
C. v3/4
D. 4v3

Solution
6
 System: Object that explodes
Initial state: Before the explosion
Final state: After the explosion

𝑝⃗𝑖 = 𝑝⃗𝑓
𝑚𝑣𝑖 = 𝑚1 𝑣⃗1 + 𝑚1 𝑣⃗2 + 𝑚3 𝑣⃗3
In the y direction,
(𝑚 + 𝑚 + 2𝑚)𝑣𝑖 𝑦 = −(2𝑚)(𝑣1 ) + 𝑚(2𝑣1 )
(4𝑚)𝑣𝑖 𝑦 = −(2𝑚)(𝑣1 ) + 𝑚(2𝑣1 ) = 0
𝑣𝑖 𝑦 = 0
In the x direction,
(𝑚 + 𝑚 + 2𝑚)𝑣𝑖 𝑥 = 𝑚𝑣3
(4𝑚)𝑣𝑖 𝑥 = 𝑚𝑣3
𝑣3
𝑣𝑖 𝑥 =
4

11. Suppose you kick a football of mass 0.43 kg and the ball leaves your foot moving horizontally
with an initial speed of 25 m/s. If your foot is in contact with the ball for 8.0 ms,, determine
the magnitude of the average force exerted by your foot on the ball?

A. 4.8 kN
B. 3.3 kN
C. 2.5 kN
D. 1.3 kN

Solution
System: Ball (Non-isolated)
Initial state: Before ball is kicked
Final state: After ball is kicked

Let the ball be kicked to the right (+x direction).

𝐼⃗ = ∆𝑝⃗ = ∑ 𝐹𝑥 ∆𝑡
𝑚(𝑣⃗𝑓 − 𝑣⃗𝑖 ) = (∑ 𝐹𝑥 )𝑎𝑣𝑔 ∆𝑡
(0.43)(25 − 0) = (∑ 𝐹𝑥 )𝑎𝑣𝑔 (0.008)
(0.43)(25)
(∑ 𝐹𝑥 ) = = 1 344 = 1.3 𝑘𝑁
𝑎𝑣𝑔 0.008

12. A 5.0 kg puck moving at 2.0 m/s collides into an identical puck that is stationary on a smooth
surface. After the collision, the first puck moves with speed v1 at an angle of 300 to the original
line of motion as illustrated in the diagram. The second puck goes off with speeed v2 at the
angle of 600 as shown. Calculate the speeds v1 and v2.

7
A. v1 = 1.8 m/s, v2 = 0.90 m/s
B. v1 = 1.0 m/s, v2 = 1.0 m/s
C. v1 = 1.7 m/s, v2 = 1.0 m/s
D. None of the other answers

Solution
System: Two pucks (Isolated)
Initial state: Before collision
Final state: After collison

𝑝⃗𝑖 = 𝑝⃗𝑓
In the x direction,
𝑚1 𝑣1 𝑖 = 𝑚1 𝑣1 𝑓 cos 300 + 𝑚2 𝑣2 𝑓 cos 600
(5)(2) = (5)𝑣1 𝑓 cos 300 + (5)𝑣2 𝑓 cos 600
10 = 5𝑣1 𝑓 cos 300 + 5𝑣2 𝑓 cos 600 (1)

In the y direction,
0 = 𝑚1 𝑣1 𝑓 sin 300 − 𝑚2 𝑣2 𝑓 sin 600
0 = (5)𝑣1 𝑓 sin 300 − (5)𝑣2 𝑓 sin 600
0 = 5𝑣1 𝑓 sin 300 − 5𝑣2 𝑓 sin 600
sin 600
𝑣1 𝑓 = 𝑣2 𝑓 [ ] (2)
𝑠𝑖𝑛 300

Substituting 𝑣1 𝑓 into equation (1),

10 = 5𝑣1 𝑓 cos 300 + 5𝑣2 𝑓 cos 600
sin 600
10 = 5𝑣2 𝑓 [ ] cos 300 + 5𝑣2 𝑓 cos 600
𝑠𝑖𝑛 300
sin 600
2 = 𝑣2 𝑓 [[ ] cos 300 + cos 600 ]
𝑠𝑖𝑛 300
sin 600
𝑣2 𝑓 = 2 ÷ [[ ] cos 300 + cos 600 ] = 1 𝑚/𝑠
𝑠𝑖𝑛 300
8
 From equation (1),
sin 600 𝑠𝑖𝑛 600
𝑣1 𝑓 = 𝑣2 𝑓 [ ] = 1[ ] = 1.7 𝑚/𝑠
𝑠𝑖𝑛 300 𝑠𝑖𝑛 300

13. Three odd-shaped blocks of chocolate have the following masses and centre-of-mass
coordinates:
Chocolate block 1 0.300 kg CM at (0.200, 0.300) m
Chocolate block 2 0.400 kg CM at (0.100, -0.400) m
Chocolate block 3 0.200 kg CM at (-0.300, 0.600) m
Where is the centre of mass of the whole system of three choclate blocks?

A. (0.0444, 0.0556) m
B. (0.175, 0.422) m
C. (0.100, 0.200) m
D. None of the other answers

Solution
∑𝑖 𝑚𝑖 𝑥𝑖 (0.3 × 0.2) + (0.4 × 0.1) + (0.2 × −0.3) 0.04
𝑥𝐶𝑀 = = = = 0.0444 𝑚
𝑀 0.3 + 0.4 + 0.2 0.9
∑𝑖 𝑚𝑖 𝑦𝑖 (0.3 × 0.3) + (0.4 × −0.4) + (0.2 × 0.6) 0.05
𝑦𝐶𝑀 = = = = 0.0555 𝑚
𝑀 0.3 + 0.4 + 0.2 0.9

Therefore, 𝑟⃗𝐶𝑀 = (0.0444, 0.0556) m

14. Marble 1 (mass = 10 g) slides to the left on a smooth surface at 0.40 m/s and collides elastically
with Marble 2 (mass = 30 g) which was sliding to the right, on the same surface, at 0.20 m/s
(See diagram).

What is the vvelocity of each marble after the collision?

A. v1 = 0.30 m/s to the right, v2 = 0.15 m/s to the right
B. v1 = 0.18 m/s to the right, v2 = 0.050 m/s to the left
C. v1 = 0, v2 = 0.19 m/s to the right
D. v1 = 0.50 m/s to the right, v2 = 0.10 m/s to the left

Solution
System: The two marbles (Isolated system)
Initial state: Before collision
9
 Final state: After collision
Let the motion be along the x axis.
𝑝⃗𝑖 = 𝑝⃗𝑓
In the x direction,
𝑚1 𝑣1 𝑖 + 𝑚2 𝑣2 𝑖 = 𝑚1 𝑣1 𝑓 + 𝑚2 𝑣2 𝑓
(0.01)(−0,4) + (0.03)(0.2) = (0.01)𝑣1 𝑓 + (0.03)𝑣2 𝑓
−0.004 + 0.006 = 0.01𝑣1 𝑓 + 0.03𝑣2 𝑓
0.002 = 0.01𝑣1 𝑓 + 0.03𝑣2 𝑓 (𝑖)
0.2 = 𝑣1 𝑓 + 3𝑣2 𝑓 (𝑖)

And using the relative velocity relationship for an elastic collision,

𝑣1 𝑖 − 𝑣2 𝑖 = − (𝑣1 𝑓 − 𝑣2 𝑓 )
−0.4 − 0.2 = − (𝑣1 𝑓 − 𝑣2 𝑓 )
−0.6 = 𝑣2 𝑓 − 𝑣1 𝑓
𝑣2 𝑓 = 𝑣1 𝑓 − 0.6 (𝑖𝑖)

Substituting this 𝑣2 𝑓 into equation (i),

0.2 = 𝑣1 𝑓 + 3𝑣2 𝑓
0.2 = 𝑣1 𝑓 + 3 (𝑣1 𝑓 − 0.6)
2 = 𝑣1 𝑓 + 3𝑣1 𝑓
2 = 4𝑣1 𝑓
𝑣1 𝑓 = 0.50 m/s

From equation (ii),

𝑣2 𝑓 = 𝑣1 𝑓 − 0.6
= 0.5 − 0.6
= −0.10 m/s

15. A particle slides along the x axis on a smooth surface. It then experiences an external force for
a short time interval as shown in the diagram. The magnitude of the force varies as shown.

What impulse does this force exert on the particle?

A. 5 N s
B. 8 N s
10
 C. 11 N s
D. None of the other answers

Solution
System: The particle
Initial state: t= 0
Final state: t = 5 s
5𝑠
𝐼⃗ = ∫ 𝐹𝑑𝑡 = 𝐴𝑟𝑒𝑎
0
1
= (5 + 3)(2) = 8 𝑁 𝑠
2

16. In component form, the linear momentum of a particle is (4.8t2; -8.0; -8.9t) kg m s-1 where t
is time in seconds.
The magnitude of the net force acting on this particle at time t = 3.0 s is

A. 30 N
B. 19 N
C. 13 N
D. None of the other answers

Solution
𝑝⃗ = [4.8𝑡 2 𝑖̂ − 8.0𝑗̂ − 8.9𝑡𝑘̂ ]
𝑑𝑝⃗
∑ 𝐹⃗ = = [9.6𝑡𝑖̂ − 8.9𝑘̂ ] = 9.6(3)𝑖̂ − 8.9𝑘̂
𝑑𝑥
The magnitude of this force is
∑ 𝐹 = √[9.6(3)]2 − 8.92 = 30 N

17. A particle of mass 0.325 kg traveling to the left at 35.0 m/s collides into a concrete wall. After
being in contact with the wall for 0.015 s, the particle returns horizontally from the wall at 22.0
m/s. Determine the magnitude of the average force experienced by the particle during this
collision.

A. 1.24 kN
B. 282 N
C. 2.00 kN
D. None of the other answers

Solution
∆𝑝⃗ 𝑚(𝑣⃗𝑓 − 𝑣⃗𝑖 ) 0.325[22.0 − (−35.0)]
∑ 𝐹⃗ = = = = 1235 𝑁 = 𝟏. 𝟐𝟒 𝒌𝑵
∆𝑡 ∆𝑡 0.015

18. The stationary nucleus of an atom (mass = 17.0 x 10-27 kg) explodes into three pieces.
Piece 1 has a mass of 5.00 x 10-27 kg and travels along the y-axis at a speed of 6.00 x 106 m/s.
Piece 2 has a mass of 8.40 x 10-27 kg and travels along the x-axis with a speed of 4.00 x 106 m/s.
Determine the x and y components of the velocity of Piece 3.

11
 A. [-9.33 x 106; -8.33 x 106] m/s
B. [-5.42 x 106; -5.67 x 106] m/s
C. [-6.02 x 106; -6.26 x 106] m/s
D. None of the other answers

Solution
𝑝⃗1 + 𝑝⃗2 + 𝑝⃗3 = 0
𝑚1 𝑣⃗1 + 𝑚2 𝑣⃗2 + 𝑚3 𝑣⃗3 = 0

(5 × 10−27 )(6 × 106 𝑗̂) + (8.4 × 10−27 )(4 × 106 𝑖̂) +

[17 × 10−27 − (5 × 10−27 + 8.4 × 10−27 )]𝑣⃗3 = 0

3 × 10−20 𝑗̂ + 3.36 × 10−20 𝑖̂ + 3.6 × 10−27 (𝑣⃗3 ) = 0

−3.6 × 10−27 (𝑣⃗3 ) = 3 × 10−20 𝑗̂ + 3.36 × 10−20 𝑖̂

3 × 10−20 𝑗̂ + 3.36 × 10−20 𝑖̂

𝑣⃗3 = −
3.6 × 10−27
= −9.33 × 106 𝑖̂ − 8.33 × 106 𝑗̂ m/s

The x component is −9.33 × 106 m/s and the y component is −8.33 × 106 m/s

19. A 0.540 kg object falls from 2.15 m above the floor then it bounces up to 1.65 m high. The
impulse experienced by the object is

A. 7.55 N s
B. 3.38 N s
C. 6.58 N s
D. None of the other answers

Solution
On the way down,
𝑣𝑦𝑓 2 = 𝑣𝑦𝑖 2 + 2𝑎𝑦 (∆𝑦)
𝑣𝑦𝑓 2 = 0 + 2(−9.8)(−2.15)
𝑣𝑦𝑓 = √2(−9.8)(−1.75) = −6.49 m/s

On the way back up,

𝑣𝑦𝑓 2 = 𝑣𝑦𝑖 2 + 2𝑎𝑦 (∆𝑦)
0 = 𝑣𝑦𝑖 2 + 2(−9.8)(1.65)
𝑣𝑦𝑖 = √2(9.8)(1.5) = 5.69 m/s

𝐼⃗ = ∆𝑝⃗ = 𝑚𝑣⃗𝑓 − 𝑚𝑣⃗𝑖

= 𝑚(𝑣⃗𝑓 − 𝑣⃗𝑖 )
= 0.54[5.69 − (−6.49)]
= 6.58 N s

12
20. Object A of mass 10 g moving to the left with a speed vAi = 0.4 m/s on a smooth horizontal
surface collides elastically into Object B of mass 30 g which is moving at vBi = 0.2 m/s to the
right. What is the velocity of each of the objects after this collision? [Hint: For an elastic
collision, vAi – vBi = -(vAf – vBf) where the subscripts ‘i’ and ‘f’ represents ‘initial’ and ‘final’
respectively]

A. vAf = 0.7 m/s vBf = -0.6 m/s

B. vAf = -0.6 m/s vBf = 0.4 m/s
C. vAf = 0.5 m/s vBf = -0.1 m/s
D. None of the other answers

Solution
From conservation of linear momentum,
𝑚𝑣𝐴 𝑖 + 𝑚𝑣𝐵 𝑖 = 𝑚𝑣𝐴 𝑓 + 𝑚𝑣𝐵 𝑓
0.01(−0.4) + 0.03(0.2) = 0.01𝑣𝐴 𝑓 + 0.03𝑣𝐵 𝑓 (1)

From the conservation of kinetic energy, using relative velocities,

𝑣𝐴 𝑖 − 𝑣𝐵 𝑖 = − (𝑣𝐴 𝑓 − 𝑣𝐵 𝑓 )
−0.4 − 0.2 = − (𝑣𝐴 𝑓 − 𝑣𝐵 𝑓 )
𝑣𝐴 𝑓 − 𝑣𝐵 𝑓 = 0.6
𝑣𝐴 𝑓 = 𝑣𝐵 𝑓 + 0.6 (2)

Substituting 𝑣𝐴 𝑓 from equation (2) into equation (1),

0.01(−0.4) + 0.03(0.2) = 0.01 (𝑣𝐵 𝑓 + 0.6) + 0.03𝑣𝐵 𝑓
−0.004 + 0.006 = 0.01𝑣𝐵 𝑓 + 0.006 + 0.03𝑣𝐵 𝑓
−0.004 = 0.04𝑣𝐵 𝑓
0.004
𝑣𝐵 𝑓 = − = −0.1 𝑚/𝑠
0.04

From equation 2),

𝑣𝐴 𝑓 = 𝑣𝐵 𝑓 + 0.6
= −0.1 + 0.6
= 0.5 m/s

21. In the xy Cartesian plane, an object of mass 2 kg is located at (-1.2; 0.50) m. A second object of
mass 4 kg is located at (0.60; -0.75) m. Where should a third object of mass 3 kg be located in
order for the centre of mass of the 3-particle system to be at (-0.50; -0.70) m?

A. (-1.6; -1.8) m
B. (-1.5; -1.4) m
C. (1.2; -0.80) m
D. None of the other answers

13
 Solution

22. A particle A moving at 40.0 m/s collides with particle B which is at rest as illustrated in the
diagram. The two particles have similar masses.

The two particles then travel in the directions indicated by the angles and particle B has a final
speed of 20.7 m/s. Assuming the two particle system is isolated, determine the speed of particle
A after the collision.

A. 27.7 m/s
B. 32.6 m/s
C. 29.3 m/s
D. None of the other answers

Solution
System: Partciles ‘A’ and ‘B’ (Isolated)
Initial state: Before collision
Final state: After collision

Let the common mass be 𝑚.

𝑃⃗⃗𝑖 𝑇𝑜𝑡 = 𝑃⃗⃗𝑖 𝑇𝑜𝑡
In the x direction,
40𝑚 = 𝑚𝑣𝐴 𝑓 cos 300 + 20.7𝑚 𝑐𝑜𝑠 450
In the y direction,
0 = 𝑚𝑣𝐴 𝑓 sin 300 − 20.7𝑚 𝑠𝑖𝑛 450

We now have simultaneous equations:

40 = 𝑣𝐴 𝑓 𝑐𝑜𝑠 300 + 20.7 𝑐𝑜𝑠 450
0 = 𝑣𝐴 𝑓 𝑠𝑖𝑛 300 − 20.7 𝑠𝑖𝑛 450
Subtracting the first equation minus the second,
40 = 𝑣𝐴 𝑓 𝑐𝑜𝑠 300 + 20.7 𝑐𝑜𝑠 450 − [𝑣𝐴 𝑓 𝑠𝑖𝑛 300 − 20.7 𝑠𝑖𝑛 450 ]
40 = 𝑣𝐴 𝑓 𝑐𝑜𝑠 300 + 20.7 𝑐𝑜𝑠 450 − 𝑣𝐴 𝑓 𝑠𝑖𝑛 300 + 20.7 𝑠𝑖𝑛 450
𝑣𝐴 𝑓 (𝑐𝑜𝑠 300 − 𝑠𝑖𝑛 300 ) = 40 − 20.7(𝑐𝑜𝑠 450 + 𝑠𝑖𝑛 450 )
40 − 20.7(𝑐𝑜𝑠 450 + 𝑠𝑖𝑛 450 )
𝑣𝐴 𝑓 = = 29.3 𝑚/𝑠
𝑐𝑜𝑠 300 − 𝑠𝑖𝑛 300

23. Two vehicles are involved in an accident at an intersection. Car 1 (mass m = 2.00 x 103 kg), was
travelling due East while Car 2 (mass m = 1.50 x 103 kg) was travelling due South at 15.0 m/s.
After the collision, the two cars entangle and move together. As a traffic officer, you examine
the scene of the accident and conclude that,
14 after the collision, the joined wreckage moved at
 65.0° South East. What was the speed vf of the joined cars just after the collision and at what
speed v1i was Car 1 travelling before the accident?

A. v1i = 12.3 m/s vf = 9.20 m/s

B. v1i = 5.20 m/s vf = 7.10 m/s
C. v1i = 13.4 m/s vf = 8.50 m/s
D. None of the other answers

Solution

15 m/s
𝑣𝐶𝑎𝑟 1 𝑖
650

Just before collision Just after collision

System: Car 1 and 2 (Isolated)

Let the Eastward direction be the +x direction and let the Northward direction be the +y
direction.
Initial state: Before collision
Final state: After collision

𝑃⃗⃗𝑖 𝑇𝑜𝑡 = 𝑃⃗⃗𝑖 𝑇𝑜𝑡

In the x direction,
𝑚𝐶𝑎𝑟 1 𝑣𝐶𝑎𝑟 1 𝑖 = (𝑚𝐶𝑎𝑟 1 + 𝑚𝐶𝑎𝑟 2 )𝑣𝑓 cos 650
2 000𝑣𝐶𝑎𝑟 1 𝑖 = 3 500𝑣𝑓 cos 650
In the y direction,
−𝑚𝐶𝑎𝑟 2 𝑣𝐶𝑎𝑟 2 𝑖 = −(𝑚𝐶𝑎𝑟 1 + 𝑚𝐶𝑎𝑟 2 )𝑣𝑓 sin 650
−(1 500)(15) = −3 500𝑣𝑓 sin 650

We have simultaneous equations:

2 000𝑣𝐶𝑎𝑟 1 𝑖 = 3 500𝑣𝑓 cos 650 (1)
(1 500)(15) = 3 500𝑣𝑓 sin 650 (2)

From Equation (2),

(1 500)(15)
𝑣𝑓 = = 7.1 𝑚/𝑠
(3 500)(𝑠𝑖𝑛 650 )

From Equation (1),

(1 500)(15) 0
3 500𝑣𝑓 𝑐𝑜𝑠 650 (3 500) [(3 500)(𝑠𝑖𝑛 650 )] (𝑐𝑜𝑠 65 )
𝑣𝐶𝑎𝑟 1 𝑖 = = = 5.24 𝑚/𝑠
2 000 2 000

24. A pellet of mass 5.20 g travelling at 672 m/s hits a 700 g block of wood that is on a smooth
surface. The pellet emerges from the block, traveling in the same direction but with a lower
speed of 428 m/s. What is the speed of the block of wood after the interaction?
15
 A. 2.76 m/s
B. 1.81 m/s
C. 3.53 m/s
D. None of the answers

Solution
System: Pellet and wooden block (Isolated)
Let the pellet be represented by the subscript ‘p’. Let the wooden block be represented by ‘b’
Initial state: Pellet moving towards the stationery block
Final state: Pellet and block moving separately after collision

𝑃⃗⃗𝑖 𝑇𝑜𝑡 = 𝑃⃗⃗𝑖 𝑇𝑜𝑡

In the x direction,
𝑚𝑝 𝑣𝑝 = 𝑚𝑝 𝑣𝑝 + 𝑚𝑏 𝑣𝑏 𝑓
𝑖 𝑓
(5.2 × 10−3 )(672) = (5.2 × 10−3 )(428) + (700 × 10−3 )𝑣𝑏 𝑓
(5.2)(672) = (5.2)(428) + 700𝑣𝑏 𝑓
(5.2)(672) − (5.2)(428) 1 269
𝑣𝑏 𝑓 = = = 1.81 𝑚/𝑠
700 700

25. The masses of the Earth and Moon are 5.98 x 1024 kg and 7.35 x 1022 kg, respectively. Their
centres are separated by a distance of 3.84 x 108 m. Where is the centre of mass of the Earth-
Moon system located?

A. 2.76 x 108 m away from the centre of the Earth

B. 1.92 x 108 m away from the centre of the Earth
C. 4.66 x 106 m away from the centre of the Earth
D. None of the other answers

Solution

𝑥
𝑥=0

∑ 𝑚1 𝑥𝑖 (5.98 × 1024 )(0) + (7.35 × 1022 )(3.84 × 108 )

𝑥𝐶𝑀 = = = 4.66 × 106 𝑚
𝑀 (5.98 × 1024 ) + (7.35 × 1022 )

= 4 660 km

Extra Info
The Earth’s radius is 6 371 km. Therefore, the centre of mass of the Earth-Moon system, is a
shorter distance from the centre of the Earth compared to the radius of the Earth. This means
that it is a point under the surface of the Earth by 6 371 − 4 660 = 1 711 km. The centre of
mass of the Earth-Moon system is 1 711 km below the surface of the Earth.

16
26. A particle of mass 2.70 kg slides along the x axis on a smooth surface. It then experiences an
external force for a short time interval. The magnitude of the force varies as shown in the
diagram where Fmax is 2.00 kN.

What impulse does this force exert on the stone?

A. 5.40 kN s
B. 8.00 kN s
C. 2.00 kN s
D. None of the other answers

Solution
0.006 𝑠
𝐼⃗ = ∆𝑝⃗ = ∫ 𝐹𝑑𝑡 = 𝐴𝑟𝑒𝑎 𝑢𝑛𝑑𝑒𝑟 𝑐𝑢𝑟𝑣𝑒
0.002 𝑠
1
= (0.006 + 0.002)(2 000)
2
= 8 𝑁𝑠

27. A 225 kg missile is fired from the ground at 180 m/s and 600 above the ground. As the missile
reaches the peak of its motion, it explodes into three pieces of equal mass. Piece 1 travels
horizontally forward with the speed that the missile had at the peak point. Piece 2 travels
vertically down with the speed that the missile had at the peak point. What are the x and y
components of the velocity of Piece 3?
A. (-90; 90) m/s
B. (180; 90) m/s
C. (156; 75) m/s
D. None of the other answers

Solution
The missile follows projectile motion. At peak, the horizontal velocity is the initial horizontal
velocity since horizontal velocity does not change in projectile motion. The vertical velocity at
this point is Zero.
𝑣𝑥 = 𝑣𝑖 cos 𝜃 = 180 cos 600 = 90 m/s
Speed at peak is therefore 𝑣 = √𝑣𝑥 2 + 𝑣𝑦 2 = √902 + 0 = 90 m/s
17
 Piece 1 travels at 90 m/s forwards horizontally so it has a velocity of
𝑣⃗1 𝑓 = (90𝑖̂ + 0𝑗̂) m/s

Piece 2 travels at 90 m/s downwards so it has a velocity of

𝑣⃗2 𝑓 = (0𝑖̂ − 90𝑗̂) m/s

Just before explosion (before breaking up), the whole missile was at peak and only had a
horizontal speed of 50 m/s and a Zero vertical velocity.
𝑣𝑖 = (90𝑖̂ + 0𝑗̂) m/s

Conservation of linear momentum:

(𝑚1 + 𝑚2 + 𝑚3 )𝑣⃗𝑖 = 𝑚1 𝑣⃗1 𝑓 + 𝑚2 𝑣⃗2 𝑓 + 𝑚3 𝑣⃗3 𝑓
(𝑚 + 𝑚 + 𝑚)(90𝑖̂ + 0𝑗̂) = 𝑚(90𝑖̂ + 0𝑗̂) + 𝑚(0𝑖̂ − 90𝑗̂) + 𝑚𝑣⃗3 𝑓
3𝑚(90𝑖̂) = 𝑚(90𝑖̂) − 𝑚(90𝑗̂) + 𝑚𝑣⃗3 𝑓
270𝑖̂ − 90𝑖̂ + 90𝑗̂ = 𝑣⃗3 𝑓
𝑣⃗3 𝑓 = (180𝑖̂ + 90𝑗̂) m/s

28. Two objects of equal mass moving in the Cartesian plane shown in the diagram, collide
elastically at the origin. Before collision, object A is moving in the +y direction at 2.0 m/s while
object 2 is moving in the +x direction at 3.7 m/s.

After collision, object B travels along the +y direction as shown. What are the speeds of the
two objects after collision?

A. vAf = 3.7 m/s; vBf = 2.0 m/s

B. vAf = 4.2 m/s; vBf = 2.7 m/s
C. vAf = 2.5 m/s; vBf = 3.3 m/s
D. None of the other answers

Solution
18
The initial speeds are
𝑣𝐵 𝑖 = 3.7 m/s
𝑣𝐴 𝑖 = 2.0 m/s

Conservation of linear momentum:

In the x direction,
𝑚𝑣𝐴𝑥 𝑖 + 𝑚𝑣𝐵𝑥 𝑖 = 𝑚𝑣𝐴𝑥 𝑓 + 𝑚𝑣𝐵𝑥 𝑓
0 + 𝑚𝑣𝐵𝑥 𝑖 = 𝑚𝑣𝐴𝑥 𝑓 + 0
𝑣𝐵𝑥 𝑖 = 𝑣𝐴𝑥 𝑓
Since object B initially had an x component of velocity only, that component gives speed, so
𝑣𝐵 𝑖 = 𝑣𝐴𝑥 𝑓 (1)

In the y direction,
𝑚𝑣𝐴𝑦 + 𝑚𝑣𝐵𝑦 = 𝑚𝑣𝐴𝑦 + 𝑚𝑣𝐵𝑦
𝑖 𝑖 𝑓 𝑓
𝑚𝑣𝐴𝑦 𝑖 + 0 = 𝑚𝑣𝐴𝑦 𝑓 + 𝑚𝑣𝐵𝑦 𝑓
𝑣𝐴𝑦 𝑖 = 𝑣𝐴𝑦 𝑓 + 𝑣𝐵𝑦 𝑓
Since object B ends up with only a y component of velocity and object A started off with only
a y component of velocity, we have
𝑣𝐴 𝑖 = 𝑣𝐴𝑦 + 𝑣𝐵 𝑓 (2)
𝑓

Conservation of kinetic energy:

1 1 1 1
𝑚𝐴 𝑣𝐴 𝑖 2 + 𝑚𝐵 𝑣𝐵 𝑖 2 = 𝑚𝐴 𝑣𝐴 𝑓 2 + 𝑚𝐵 𝑣𝐵 𝑓 2
2 2 2 2
1 1 1 1
𝑚𝑣 2 + 𝑚𝑣𝐵 𝑖 2 = 𝑚𝑣𝐴 𝑓 2 + 𝑚𝑣𝐵 𝑓 2
2 𝐴𝑖 2 2 2
𝑣𝐴 𝑖 2 + 𝑣𝐵 𝑖 2 = 𝑣𝐴 𝑓 2 + 𝑣𝐵 𝑓 2
Substituting 𝑣𝐴 𝑖 and 𝑣𝐵 𝑖 from equation (1) and (2),
2
(𝑣𝐴𝑦 𝑓 + 𝑣𝐵 𝑓 ) + 𝑣𝐴𝑥 𝑓 2 = 𝑣𝐴 𝑓 2 + 𝑣𝐵 𝑓 2
𝑣𝐴𝑦 𝑓 2 + 2𝑣𝐴𝑦 𝑓 𝑣𝐵 𝑓 + 𝑣𝐵 𝑓 2 + 𝑣𝐴𝑥 𝑓 2 = 𝑣𝐴 𝑓 2 + 𝑣𝐵 𝑓 2 (3)
But,
𝑣𝐴 𝑓 2 = 𝑣𝐴𝑦 𝑓 2 + 𝑣𝐴𝑥 𝑓 2
Substituting this into equation (3),
𝑣𝐴 𝑓 2 + 2𝑣𝐴𝑦 𝑣𝐵 𝑓 + 𝑣𝐵 𝑓 2 = 𝑣𝐴 𝑓 2 + 𝑣𝐵 𝑓 2
𝑓
2𝑣𝐴𝑦 𝑓 𝑣𝐵 𝑓 = 0
This is true if
𝑣𝐴𝑦 𝑓 = 0 or 𝑣𝐵 𝑓 = 0
We know that 𝑣𝐵 𝑓 ≠ 0 therefore,
𝑣𝐴𝑦 𝑓 = 0 (4)
Thus, the final y component of the velocity of object A is Zero, meaning it completely travels
in the x direction.
From equation (2),
𝑣𝐴 𝑖 = 0 + 𝑣𝐵 𝑓
𝑣𝐵 𝑓 = 𝑣𝐴 𝑖 = 2.0 m/s
Since 𝑣𝐴𝑦 𝑓 = 0, equation (1) becomes
19
 𝑣𝐵 𝑖 = 𝑣𝐴 𝑓
𝑣𝐴 𝑓 = 𝑣𝐵 𝑖 = 3.7 m/s
The final speeds of the objects are therefore
𝑣𝐴 𝑓 = 3.7 m/s
𝑣𝐵 𝑓 = 2.0 m/s

29. An airbag in a car inflates (fills up with air) when the car collides as illustrated in
the diagram. This protects the driver from serious injury. Using your knowledge
of collision physics, how does the airbag protect the driver?

A. The airbag increases the time interval during which the collision force act
B. The airbag increases the surface area acted upon by the collision force
C. The airbag pushes the driver backwards which protects him from potential
injury
D. None of the other answers explains how the airbag protects the driver

Solution
t2
⃗I = ∆p
⃗⃗ = ∫ ∑ ⃗F⃗ dt
t1
So,
∆p
⃗⃗
∑ ⃗F⃗ =
∆t
An airbag increases the ‘time interval’ for the change in the driver’s momentum
∆𝑝⃗. This decreases the net force exerted on the driver thus protecting the driver
from potential injury.

30. In the diagram below, a 10 g bullet moving directly upward at 1000 m/s strikes and
passes through the centre of mass of a 5.0 kg block initially at rest.

20
The bullet passes through the block and emerges from the block moving directly upward at 400
m/s. What is the maximum height reached by the block above its initial position?

A. 6.81 cm
B. 7.35 cm
C. 11.4 cm
D. None of the other answers

Solution
System = Bullet and Block (Isolated assuming no air resistance so that linear momentum is
conserved)
Initial state: Before bullet hits block
Final State: Just after bullet hits block

Let the block be B and let the bullet be b.

Since the motion is not in the 𝑥 direction, there is no change in the linear momentum in the 𝑥
direction.
However, in the y direction,
𝑝𝐵𝑖 + 𝑝𝑏𝑖 = 𝑝𝐵𝑓 + 𝑝𝑏𝑓
𝑚𝐵 𝑣𝐵𝑖 + 𝑚𝑏 𝑣𝑏𝑖 = 𝑚𝐵 𝑣𝐵𝑓 + 𝑚𝑏 𝑣𝑏𝑓
(5)(0) + (0.01)(1 000) = (5)𝑣𝐵𝑓 + (0.01)(400)
10 = 5𝑣𝐵𝑓 + 4
6
𝑣𝐵𝑓 = = 1.2 𝑚/𝑠
5

Conservation of energy
System: Block, Bullet and Earth (Isolated)
Initial state: When the block has just been hit by the bullet
Final state: When the block and bullet reach maximum height

∆𝐾 + ∆𝑈𝑠 + ∆𝑈𝑔 + 𝑓𝑘 𝑑 = 0
∆𝐾 + ∆𝑈𝑔 = 0
Let the Zero reference level for gravitational potential energy be at the surface where the block
is initially resting.
(𝐾𝑓 − 𝐾𝑖 ) + (𝑈𝑔 𝑓 − 𝑈𝑔 𝑖 ) = 0
1
(0 − 𝑚𝑣𝐵𝑖 2 ) + (𝑚𝑔𝑦𝑚𝑎𝑥 − 0) = 0
2
1
𝑚𝑔𝑦𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 𝑚𝑣𝐵𝑖 2
2
𝑣𝐵𝑖 2 (1.2)2
𝑦𝑚𝑎𝑥 = = = 0.073 𝑚 = 7.35 𝑐𝑚
2𝑔 2(9.8)

21