Exam question booklet | Topic 2

2 Relationships between force,

energy and mass
Unit 3 How do fields explain motion and electricity?
Area of Study 1 How do physicists explain motion in two dimensions?
Topic 2 Relationships between force, energy and mass
Subtopic 2.2 Momentum and impulse

To answer questions online and to receive immediate feedback and sample responses for every question, go to
your learnON title at www.jacplus.com.au.

Source: VCE 2022 Physics Exam, Section B, Q.7; © VCAA

Question 1 (10 marks)

Kym and Kelly are experimenting with trolleys on a ramp inclined at 25°, as shown in Figure 7. They
release a trolley with a mass of 2.0 kg from the top of the ramp. The trolley moves down the ramp, through
two light gates and onto a horizontal, frictionless surface. Kym and Kelly calculate the acceleration of the
trolley to be 3.2 m s–2 using the information from the light gates.
light gate

trolley

v
light gate
stationary
trolley
horizontal, 25°
frictionless surface

Figure 7

Use g = 9.8 m s−2 .

a. i. Show that the component of the gravitational force of the trolley down the slope is 8.3 N.
(2 marks)

© John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition 1
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 AOS 1 Topic 2 Subtopic 2.2 Momentum and impulse

ii. Assume that on the ramp there is a constant frictional force acting on the trolley and opposing its motion.
Calculate the magnitude of the constant frictional force acting on the trolley. The magnitude of the
constant frictional force acting on the trolley is 1.9 N. (2 marks)

b. When it reaches the bottom of the ramp, the trolley travels along the horizontal, frictionless surface at a
speed of 4.0 m s−1 until it collides with a stationary identical trolley. The two trolleys stick together and
continue in the same direction as the first trolley.
i. Calculate the speed of the two trolleys after the collision. Show your working and clearly state the
physics principle that you have used. (3 marks)

ii. Determine, with calculations, whether this collision is an elastic or inelastic collision.
Show your working. (3 marks)

2 Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition © John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 AOS 1 Topic 2 Subtopic 2.2 Momentum and impulse

Source: VCE 2021 Physics Exam, NHT, Section B, Q.9; © VCAA

Question 2 (10 marks)

In a model of a proposed ride at a theme park, a 5.0-kg smooth block slides down a ramp from point W and
into an ideal spring bumper without any friction or air resistance, as shown in Figure 13. The final section of
the ramp, between points X and Y, is horizontal. The block comes to an instantaneous stop at point Y.
W block

ideal spring bumper

X Y

Figure 13
a. Describe the acceleration of the block at points W, X and Y. (4 marks)

100 N m−1 .
b. The maximum compression of the spring is measured as 3.0 m and its spring constant, k, is
(3 marks)
Calculate the release height, h. Show your working.

© John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition 3
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 AOS 1 Topic 2 Subtopic 2.2 Momentum and impulse

c. Calculate the magnitude of the maximum momentum of the block. Show your working. (2 marks)

d. When the block comes to rest, its momentum is zero. In terms of the principle of conservation of
momentum, state what has happened to the momentum of the block as it comes to rest. (1 mark)

Source: VCE 2021 Physics Exam, NHT, Section B, Q.18a,b,c; © VCAA

Question 3 (7 marks)
A small rubber ball of mass 50 g falls vertically from a given height and rebounds from a hard floor.
The ball’s speed immediately before impact is 3.6 m s–1 . The ball rebounds upward at a speed of 3.3 m s–1
immediately after it leaves the floor. The ball is in contact with the floor for 40 ms.
a. Calculate the magnitude and direction of the net average force acting on the 50-g ball while it is in
contact with the floor. Show your working. (4 marks)

b. Just before the ball hits the floor, it has a certain amount of kinetic energy, Ek . At one instantwhen the
ball is in contact with the floor, it is stationary before it rebounds.
Explain what has happened to the kinetic energy, Ek , of the ball when it is stationary. (2 marks)

c. Just before the ball hits the floor, it has a certain amount of vertical momentum, p. At one instant when
the ball is in contact with the floor, it is stationary before it rebounds.
What has happened to the vertical momentum, p, of the ball when it is stationary? (1 mark)

4 Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition © John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 AOS 1 Topic 2 Subtopic 2.2 Momentum and impulse

Source: VCE 2019 Physics Exam, NHT, Section B, Q.7; © VCAA

Question 4 (7 marks)
Students are using high-speed photography to analyse the collision between a bat and a ball. The
experiment is arranged so that the bat and the ball are both moving horizontally just before and just after the
collision, as shown in Figure 8. Assume that the bat and the ball are point masses. The students record the
following measurements.
mass of bat 2.0 kg
mass of ball 0.20 kg
speed of bat immediately before collision 10 m s−1 (bat is stationary after collision)
speed of ball immediately before collision 60 m s−1 (towards bat)
speed of ball immediately after collision 40 m s−1 (away from bat)
time ball is in contact with bat 0.010 s

Before the collision After the collision

bat is
10 m s–1 60 m s–1 stationary 40 m s
–1

Figure 8
a. Calculate the magnitude of the impulse given by the bat to the ball. Include an appropriate unit.
Show your working. (3 marks)

b. Calculate the average force of the bat on the ball during the collision. Show your working. (2 marks)

c. Use calculations to determine whether the collision between the bat and the ball is elastic or inelastic.
Show your working. (2 marks)

© John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition 5
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 AOS 1 Topic 2 Subtopic 2.2 Momentum and impulse

Source: VCE 2016, Physics Exam, Section A, Q.4.c; © VCAA

Question 5 (2 marks)
In a test, an unpowered toy car of mass 4.0 kg is held against a spring, compressing the spring by 0.50 m,
and then released, as shown in the figure.
There is negligible friction while the car is in contact with the spring.
The figure also shows the force–extension graph for the spring.

m = 4.0 kg

F(N)
72

70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0 ∆x (m)
0 0.25 0.50

2.0 m s−1 .
A second test is done, where the spring is not compressed as far, and the car moves off at a speed of

Calculate the impulse given to the car by the spring. Include an appropriate unit.

Source: VCE 2015 Physics Exam, Q.1.a; © VCAA

Question 6 (2 marks)
Block A, of mass 4.0 kg, is moving to the right at a speed of 8.0 m s–1 , as shown in the figure. It collides
with a stationary block, B, of mass 8.0 kg, and rebounds to the left. Its speed after the collision is 2.0 m s–1 .
8.0 kg
4.0 kg
8.0 m s–1
A B

Calculate the speed of block B after the collision.

6 Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition © John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 AOS 1 Topic 2 Subtopic 2.2 Momentum and impulse

Source: VCE 2010 Physics Exam 1, Q.12; © VCAA

Question 7 (2 marks)
In a game of tennis, the ball is thrown vertically upward. At the top of its motion the ball is momentarily
stationary. At this point it is hit forward horizontally by the racquet.
In a particular serve, the ball of mass 57 g is given a horizontal impulse of 1.70 kg m s−1 .
Assuming that the racquet and ball were in contact for a period of 0.0080 s, what was the average force
exerted on the ball by the racquet?

Source: Adapted from VCE 2006 Physics Exam 1, Q.11; © VCAA

Question 8 (3 marks)
Imagine that you are an astronaut floating in space at rest relative to the international space station.
You watch the space shuttle, of mass 6000 kg, dock. You observe the shuttle approaching the space station
with a speed of 5.00 m s−1 .
After docking, the space station’s speed has increased by 0.098 m s−1 .

The mass of the space station is 3 × 105 kg. After first making contact, it takes 20 s for the shuttle to come
to rest with the space station. Calculate the average force exerted on the shuttle by the space station.

© John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition 7
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 AOS 1 Topic 2 Subtopic 2.2 Momentum and impulse

Source: VCE 2013 Physics Sample exam for Units 3 and 4, Q.1.a; © VCAA

Question 9 (2 marks)
Ranjiv, who has a mass of 80 kg, is running with a speed of 4.0 m s−1 as he steps onto a stationary trolley of
mass 40 kg as shown in Figure 1. Ranjiv holds on to the trolley. Ranjiv and the trolley then move forward
together in the same direction.
4.0 m s–1

Ranjiv trolley
What is the speed of the trolley as soon as Ranjiv is on board?

8 Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition © John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 How do fields explain motion and electricity?

Area of Study 1 How do physicists explain motion in two dimensions?
Topic 2 Relationships between force, energy and mass
Subtopic 2.3 Work done

To answer questions online and to receive immediate feedback and sample responses for every question, go to
your learnON title at www.jacplus.com.au.

Source: VCE 2022 Physics Exam, Section A, Q.8; © VCAA

Question 1 (1 mark)
The graph below shows force versus compression for a spring used in a Physics investigation.
force (N)

40
30
20
10
compression (m)
0 0.02 0.04 0.06 0.08 0.10
Which one of the following is closest to the compression required to store 0.9 J of potential energy in the
spring?
a. 0.05 m
b. 0.06 m
c. 0.07 m
d. 0.08 m

© John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition 9
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 AOS 1 Topic 2 Subtopic 2.3 Work done

Source: VCE 2016, Physics Exam, Section A, Q.4a, b; © VCAA

Question 2 (4 marks)
In a test, an unpowered toy car of mass 4.0 kg is held against a spring, compressing the spring by 0.50 m,
and then released, as shown in the figure.
There is negligible friction while the car is in contact with the spring.
The figure also shows the force–extension graph for the spring.

m = 4.0 kg

F(N)
72

70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0 ∆x (m)
0 0.25 0.50
a. Determine the energy stored in the spring before release. (2 marks)

b. Calculate the speed of the car as it leaves the spring. Ignore any frictional forces. (2 marks)

10 Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition © John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 AOS 1 Topic 2 Subtopic 2.3 Work done

Source: VCE 2022 Physics Exam, Section A, Q.8; © VCAA

Question 3 (2 marks)
A satellite moves in uniform circular motion under the influence of the gravitational force of the planet at
the centre of its orbit.
A student claims that the kinetic energy of the satellite should change because of the work done on the
satellite by the gravitational pull of the planet.
Explain whether this claim is correct or incorrect.

Question 4 (2 marks)
The following graph shows the force applied by a bulldozer moving a large boulder a total distance of
4 metres. Calculate the work done by the bulldozer. Assume both the force and the displacement are in the
same direction.
F

500
Force (N)

250

s
0 2 4
Distance (m)

© John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition 11
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 AOS 1 Topic 2 Subtopic 2.3 Work done

Question 5 (2 marks)
A student applies a force with their foot to crush an aluminium can. The variation of the force exerted by
their foot on the can is shown in the following graph. Calculate the work done by their foot on the can.
F

300

Force (N)

150

s
0
0.06 0.12
Distance (m)

Source: VCE 2007 Physics Exam 1, Q.8; © VCAA

Question 6 (2 marks)
Amelia, who has a mass of 60 kg including equipment, is skydiving. The air resistance on her as a function
of the distance fallen is shown in the figure. After falling a distance of 400 m, she has reached terminal
velocity, and continues to fall at a constant speed until she opens her parachute.

800

600
force of
air resistance
on Amelia (N) 400

200

0
0 100 200 300 400 500
distance fallen (m)
Estimate the work done by the air-resistance force on Amelia while she was falling 500 m from the plane.

12 Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition © John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 How do fields explain motion and electricity?

Area of Study 1 How do physicists explain motion in two dimensions?
Topic 2 Relationships between force, energy and mass
Subtopic 2.4 Kinetic and potential energy

To answer questions online and to receive immediate feedback and sample responses for every question, go to
your learnON title at www.jacplus.com.au.

Source: VCE 2021 Physics Exam, Section B, Q.9a; © VCAA

Question 1 (7 marks)
Abbie and Brian are about to go on their first loop-the-loop roller-coaster ride. As competent Physics
students, they are working out if they will have enough speed at the top of the loop to remain in contact with
the track while they are upside down at point C, shown in Figure 9. The radius of the loop CB is r.

15 m
X metres

B
Figure 9
The highest point of the roller-coaster (point A) is 15 m above point B and the car starts at rest from
point A.
Assume that there is negligible friction between the car and the track.
a. What is the speed of the car at point B at the bottom of the loop? Show your working. (2 marks)

b. What is the maximum height of the loop (X metres) that will ensure that the car stays in contact with
track at point C? Show your working. (2 marks)

© John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition 13
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 AOS 1 Topic 2 Subtopic 2.4 Kinetic and potential energy

c. If friction is taken into account, will Abbie and Brian need to increase or decrease their predicted value
for the radius of the loop? Explain your answer. (3 marks)

Source: VCE 2019 Physics Exam, NHT, Section B, Q.5; © VCAA

Question 2 (8 marks)

k = 100 N m−1 .
Students conduct an experiment in which a mass of 2.0 kg is suspended from a spring with spring constant

Take the gravitational field, g, to be 10 N kg−1

Ignore the mass of the spring.

Take the zero of gravitational potential energy when the mass is at its lowest point.
The experimental arrangement is shown in Figure 6.

unstretched release
position y position
x

equilibrium lowest point

position of oscillation

Figure 6
a. The mass is attached to the spring and slowly lowered to its equilibrium position.
Calculate the extension, y, of the spring from its unstretched position to its equilibrium position.
Show your working. (2 marks)

b. The mass is now raised to the unstretched length of the spring and released so that it oscillates vertically.
i. Determine the distance, x, from the release position to the point at which the mass momentarily comes to
rest at the lowest point of oscillation. Ignore frictional losses. Show your working. (2 marks)

14 Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition © John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 AOS 1 Topic 2 Subtopic 2.4 Kinetic and potential energy

ii. Calculate the maximum speed of the mass. Show your working. (4 marks)

Source: VCE 2018 Physics Exam, NHT, Section B, Q.9; © VCAA

Question 3 (9 marks)
A spring launcher is used to project a rubber ball of mass 2.0 kg vertically upwards. The arrangement is
shown in Figure 6. The ball is driven by a spring, which is compressed and released. When the spring
reaches the top, point X, it is held stationary, but is still partly compressed as the ball leaves the launcher.
Assume that the spring has no mass.
uncompressed
position

1.0 m X X
ball leaves
0.50 m spring
launcher
Y Y
here

uncompressed spring compressed spring ball launched

Figure 6
The force–distance graph of the spring is shown in Figure 7, on which the lower and upper positions of the
spring in the spring launcher are marked.
force (N)

60
50
40
30
20
10
0 compression of
0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 spring from
uncompressed
uncompressed highest point (X) lowest point (Y) length, ∆x (m)
length
Figure 7
a. Calculate the spring constant, k, of the spring. (2 marks)

© John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition 15
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 AOS 1 Topic 2 Subtopic 2.4 Kinetic and potential energy

b. Calculate the change in spring potential energy of the spring as it goes from the lowest point, Y, to the
highest point, X. (3 marks)

c. The spring, with a ball in place, is released from point Y. It moves up to point X, where it is stopped and
the ball is launched.
Calculate the speed of the ball when it leaves the spring launcher. Show the steps involved in your
working. (4 marks)

Source: VCE 2017, Physics Exam, Section B, Q.8.b; © VCAA

Question 4 (2 marks)
A roller-coaster is arranged so that the normal reaction force on a rider in a car at the top of the circular arc
at point P, shown in Figure 7, is briefly zero. The section of track at point P has a radius of 6.4 m.

5.0 m

6.4 m
Q

Figure 7
The car is faulty and only achieves a speed of 4.0 m s–1 at
the top of the arc at point P.
Calculate how fast this car would be moving when it reaches the bottom at point Q, 5.0 m below point P.
Assume that there is no friction and no driving force on the car.

16 Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition © John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 AOS 1 Topic 2 Subtopic 2.4 Kinetic and potential energy

Source: VCE 2017, Physics Exam, Section B, Q.12; © VCAA

Question 5 (3 marks)
Students are using two trolleys, Trolley A of mass 4.0 kg and Trolley B of mass 2.0 kg, to investigate
kinetic energy and momentum in collisions.
Before the collision, Trolley A is moving to the right at 5.0 m s–1 and Trolley B is moving to the right at
2.0 m s–1 ,as shown in Figure 10a. The trolleys collide and lock together, as shown in Figure 10b.
5.0 m s–1 2.0 m s–1
A 4.0 kg B 2.0 kg A B

Figure 10a Figure 10b

Determine, using calculations, whether the collision is elastic or inelastic. Show your working and justify
your answer.

Source: VCE 2017, Physics Exam, Q.13a,b; © VCAA

Pat and Robin hang a mass of 2.00 kg on the end of a spring with spring constant k = 20.0 N m–1 .
Question 6 (7 marks)

They hold the mass at the unstretched length of the spring and release it, allowing it to fall, as shown in
Figure 11.

∆x

Figure 11
a. Determine how far the spring stretches until the mass comes momentarily to rest at the bottom. Show
your working. (3 marks)

b. Explain how the three energies involved and the total energy of the mass vary as the mass falls from top
to bottom. Calculations are not required. (4 marks)

© John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition 17
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 AOS 1 Topic 2 Subtopic 2.4 Kinetic and potential energy

Source: VCE 2010 Physics Exam 1, Q.7; © VCAA

Question 7 (2 marks)
Part of a roller coaster ride at an amusement park is shown in the figure. The car with people in it has total
mass of 1000 kg. The car starts from rest at point A, a vertical height of 20 m above point B.
Ignore effects of friction.
A

C
20 m

10 m 10 m

not to scale
B
What is the speed of the car at point B?

Source: Adapted from VCE 2010 Physics Exam 1, Q.4; © VCAA

Question 8 (2 marks)
Two physics students are conducting an experiment in which a block, m1 , of mass 0.40 kg is being pulled
by a string across a frictionless surface. The string is attached over a frictionless pulley to another mass, m2 ,
of 0.10 kg. The second mass, m2 , is free to fall vertically. This is shown in the figure.
m1

0.40 kg

m2
0.10 kg

The block is released from rest.

What is the kinetic energy of the block m1 , after it has travelled 1.0 m?

18 Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition © John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 AOS 1 Topic 2 Subtopic 2.4 Kinetic and potential energy

Source: VCE 2012 Physics Exam 1, Q.1.b; © VCAA

Question 9 (1 mark)
A spring is resting against a wall. The spring is compressed by a distance of 8.0 cm from its uncompressed
length. Jemima holds a block of mass 1.2 kg stationary against the compressed spring as shown in the first
figure.

wall 1.2 kg
frictionless surface

Jemima releases the block and it slides to the right on a frictionless surface. It leaves the spring with a
kinetic energy of 5.4 J and slides at constant speed as shown in the second figure.

wall 1.2 kg
frictionless surface

Calculate the work done by the spring on the block.

Source: VCE 2008 Physics Exam 1, Q.10; © VCAA

Question 10 (3 marks)
A locomotive, of mass 20 × 103 kg, moving at 8.0 m s–1 east, collides with and couples to three trucks, each
of mass 20 × 103 kg, initially stationary, as shown in the figure.
Assume that the final speed of the locomotive and trucks after the collision is 2 m s–1 east.
east

8.0 m s–1

3 kg 3 kg 3 kg 3 kg
10 10 10 10
× × × ×
20 20 20 20
= = = =
m m m m
Was this collision elastic or inelastic?
Support your conclusion by appropriate calculation.

© John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition 19
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 AOS 1 Topic 2 Subtopic 2.4 Kinetic and potential energy

Source: VCE 2013 Physics Exam, Q.6; © VCAA

Question 11 (6 marks)
Students hang a mass of 1.0 kg from a spring that obeys Hooke’s law with k = 10 N m−1 . The spring has an
unstretched length of 2.0 m. The mass then hangs stationary at a distance of 1.0 m below the unstretched
position (X) of the spring, at Y, as shown at position 6b in the figure. The mass is then pulled a further 1.0
m below this position and released so that it oscillates, as shown in position 6c.
0

2.0 m

2.0 top X

1.0 m

3.0 middle Y 2.0 m

1.0 m

4.0 bottom Z UG = 0
6a 6b 6c

not to scale
The zero of gravitational potential energy is taken to be the bottom point (Z).
The spring potential energy and gravitational potential energy are plotted on a graph, shown below.
energy (J) 20
spring potential energy
gravitational potential energy
15

10

0 distance above lowest point

0 1.0 2.0
bottom (Z) middle (Y) top (X)
a. Calculate the total energy of the system when the mass is at its lowest point (Z). (2 marks)

b. From the data in the graph, calculate the speed of the mass at its midpoint (Y). (2 marks)

20 Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition © John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 AOS 1 Topic 2 Subtopic 2.4 Kinetic and potential energy

c. Without making any other changes, the students now pull the mass down to point P, 0.50 m
below Y. (2 marks)
They release the mass and it oscillates about Y, as shown in the figure below.
0m

0.5 m

1.0 m 2.0 m

1.5 m

2.0 m

2.5 m O

Y 1.0 m
3.0 m

3.5 m P

4.0 m
The students now take the zero of gravitational potential energy to be at P and the zero of spring potential
energy to be at Q. They expect the total energy at P to be equal to the total energy at Q.
They prepare the following table.

Position Gravitational potential energy (GPE) Spring potential energy (SPE) Kinetic energy (KE)
Q GPE = mgh = 1.0 × 10 × 1.0 = 10 J SPE = 0 KE = 0

SPE = 12k(∆x)2
= 12 × 10 × 1.02 = 5.0J
P GPE = 0 KE = 0

However, their calculation of the total energy (GPE + SPE + KE) at Q (10 J) is different from their
calculation of the total energy at P (5.0 J).
Explain the mistake that the students have made.

© John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition 21
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 AOS 1 Topic 2 Subtopic 2.4 Kinetic and potential energy

Source: VCE 2008, Physics Exam 1, Q.13; © VCAA

Question 12 (1 mark)
A novelty toy consists of a metal ball of mass 0.20 kg hanging from a spring of spring constant
k = 10 N m−1 . The spring is attached to the ceiling of a room as shown in the figure. Ignore the mass of
the spring.
0

cm 40

55
60 10 cm
65

Without the ball attached, the spring has an unstretched length of 40 cm. When the ball is attached, but not
oscillating, the spring stretches to 60 cm.
The ball is now pulled down a further 5 cm and released so that it oscillates vertically over a range of
approximately 10 cm. Gravitational potential energy is measured from the level at which the ball is
released. Ignore air resistance.
Which of the graphs best represents the shape of the graph of kinetic energy of the system as a function
of height?
A.

0
bottom top
B.

0
bottom top

22 Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition © John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 AOS 1 Topic 2 Subtopic 2.4 Kinetic and potential energy

C.

0
bottom top
D.

0
bottom top
E.

0
bottom top

© John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition 23
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 AOS 1 Topic 2 Subtopic 2.4 Kinetic and potential energy

Source: VCE 2007, Physics Exam 1, Q.11; © VCAA

Question 13 (1 mark)
In a laboratory class at school, Lee is given a spring with a stiffness of 20 N m–1 and unstretched length of
0.40 m. He hangs it vertically, and attaches a mass to it, so that the new length of the spring is 0.60 m.
Lee pulls the mass down a further distance of 0.10 m.
He now releases the mass, so that the mass-spring system oscillates. Ignore air resistance.
Which one of the curves (A–D) below could best represent the variation of the total energy of the
oscillating mass-spring system as a function of position?
A. energy B. energy

position position

C. energy D. energy

position position

24 Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition © John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 How do fields explain motion and electricity?

Area of Study 1 How do physicists explain motion in two dimensions?
Topic 2 Relationships between force, energy and mass
Subtopic 2.5 Review

To answer questions online and to receive immediate feedback and sample responses for every question, go to
your learnON title at www.jacplus.com.au.

Source: VCE 2021 Physics Exam, Section A, Q.11; © VCAA

Question 1 (1 mark)
A force versus compression graph for a suspension spring is shown below.
force (kN)

4.0

3.0

2.0

1.0

compression (m)
0
0.01 0.02 0.03 0.04 0.05

A. 0.16 N m−1
Which one of the following is closest to the spring constant of the spring?

B. 1.0 × 102 N m−1

C. 1.6 × 102 N m−1
D. 1.0 × 105 N m−1

© John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition 25
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 AOS 1 Topic 2 Subtopic 2.5 Review

Source: VCE 2021 Physics Exam, Section A, Q.12; © VCAA

Question 2 (1 mark)
A force versus compression graph for a suspension spring is shown below.
force (kN)

4.0

3.0

2.0

1.0

compression (m)
0
0.01 0.02 0.03 0.04 0.05
The spring is compressed to 0.02 m.
Which one of the following is closest to the potential energy stored in the spring?
A. 0.04 J
B. 0.20 J
C. 20 J
D. 40 J

Source: VCE 2022 Physics Exam, Section A, Q.6; © VCAA

Question 3 (1 mark)
A railway truck (X) of mass 10 tonnes, moving at 3.0 m s−1 , collides with a stationary railway truck (Y), as

After the collision, they are joined together and move off at speed v = 2.0 m s−1 .
shown in the diagram below.

Before collision
X 3.0 m s–1 Y
(10 tonnes)

stationary
After collision

X Y 2.0 m s–1
v

Which one of the following is closest to the mass of railway truck Y?

A. 3 tonnes
B. 5 tonnes
C. 6.7 tonnes
D. 15 tonnes

26 Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition © John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 AOS 1 Topic 2 Subtopic 2.5 Review

Source: VCE 2020 Physics Exam, Section A, Q.9; © VCAA

Question 4 (1 mark)
Two blocks of mass 5 kg and 10 kg are placed in contact on a frictionless horizontal surface, as shown in the
diagram below. A constant horizontal force, F, is applied to the 5-kg block.

F 10 kg
5 kg

Which one of the following statements is correct?

A. The net force on each block is the same.
B. The acceleration experienced by the 5 kg block is twice the acceleration experienced by the 10 kg block.
C. The magnitude of the net force on the 5 kg block is half the magnitude of the net force on the
10 kg block.
D. The magnitude of the net force on the 5 kg block is twice the magnitude of the net force on the
10 kg block.

Source: VCE 2020 Physics Exam, Section A, Q.10; © VCAA

Question 5 (1 mark)
Two blocks of mass 5 kg and 10 kg are placed in contact on a frictionless horizontal surface, as shown in the
diagram below. A constant horizontal force, F, is applied to the 5-kg block.

F 10 kg
5 kg

If the force F has a magnitude of 250 N, what is the work done by the force in moving the blocks in a
straight line for a distance of 20 m ?
A. 5 kJ
B. 25 kJ
C. 50 kJ
D. 500 kJ

© John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition 27
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 AOS 1 Topic 2 Subtopic 2.5 Review

Source: VCE 2018 Physics Exam, NHT, Section A, Q.12; © VCAA

Question 6 (1 mark)

millisecond. The ball moves off at 50 m s−1 .

A golf club strikes a stationary golf ball of mass 0.040 kg. The golf club is in contact with the ball for one

The average force exerted by the club on the ball is closest to

B. 1.0 × 103 N
A. 2.0 N

C. 2.0 × 103 N
D. 1.0 × 106 N

Source: VCE 2018, Physics Exam, Section A, Q.8; © VCAA

Question 7 (1 mark)
A railway truck X of mass 10 tonnes, moving at 6.0 m s−1 , collides with a stationary railway truck Y of
mass 5.0 tonnes. After the collision the trucks are joined together and move off as one. The situation is
shown below.
Before the collision
6.0 m s–1
10 tonnes
5.0 tonnes

X Y

stationary

After the collision

X Y

A. 2.0 m s−1
The final speed of the joined railway trucks after the collision is closest to

B. 3.0 m s−1
C. 4.0 m s−1
D. 6.0 m s−1

28 Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition © John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 AOS 1 Topic 2 Subtopic 2.5 Review

Source: VCE 2018, Physics Exam, Section A, Q.9; © VCAA

Question 8 (1 mark)
A railway truck X of mass 10 tonnes, moving at 6.0 m s−1 , collides with a stationary railway truck Y of
mass 5.0 tonnes. After the collision the trucks are joined together and move off as one. The situation is
shown below.
Before the collision
6.0 m s–1
10 tonnes
5.0 tonnes

X Y

stationary

After the collision

X Y

The collision of the railway trucks is best described as one where

A. kinetic energy is conserved but momentum is not conserved.
B. kinetic energy is not conserved but momentum is conserved.
C. neither kinetic energy nor momentum is conserved.
D. both kinetic energy and momentum are conserved.

Source: VCE 2017, Physics Exam, Section A, Q.8; © VCAA

Question 9 (1 mark)
A model car of mass 2.0 kg is propelled from rest by a rocket motor that applies a constant horizontal force
of 4.0 N , as shown below. Assume that friction is negligible.
rocket motor

direction of motion

model car
Which one of the following best gives the magnitude of the impulse given to the car by the rocket motor in
the first 5.0 s?
A. 4.0 N s
B. 8.0 N s
C. 20 N s
D. 40 N s

© John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition 29
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 AOS 1 Topic 2 Subtopic 2.5 Review

Source: VCE 2017, Physics Exam, Section A, Q.13; © VCAA

Question 10 (1 mark)
A model car is on a track and moving to the right. It collides with and compresses a spring that is
considered ideal, as shown in the diagram below.
The car compresses the spring to 0.50 m when the car comes to rest. The force–distance graph for the spring
is also shown below.
Assume that friction is negligible.
model car

400

300

F (N) 200

100

0 ∆x (m)
0 0.20 0.40 0.60 0.80 1.0
What is the initial kinetic energy of the car?
A. 25 J
B. 50 J
C. 100 J
D. 200 J

30 Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition © John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 AOS 1 Topic 2 Subtopic 2.5 Review

Source: VCE 2021 Physics Exam, Section B, Q.8b; © VCAA

Question 11 (2 marks)
On 30 July 2020, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) launched an Atlas rocket
(Figure 7a) containing the Perseverance rover space capsule (Figure 7b) on a scientific mission to explore
the geology and climate of Mars, and search for signs of ancient microbial life.

Figure 7b

Figure 7a
On 18 February 2021, the Perseverance rover space capsule, travelling at 20 000 km h−1 , entered Mars’s
atmosphere at an altitude of 300 km above the surface of Mars. The mass of the capsule was 1000 kg.
Calculate the kinetic energy of the capsule at this point. Show your working.

© John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition 31
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 AOS 1 Topic 2 Subtopic 2.5 Review

Source: VCE 2018 Physics Exam, NHT, Section B, Q.7; © VCAA

Question 12 (3 marks)
Students are studying the behaviour of a golf club hitting a golf ball, treating it as a collision between the
head of the golf club and the golf ball only, as shown in Figure 4.

golf club golf ball

Figure 4
The students take the following measurements.
mass of head of golf club 0.50 kg
mass of golf ball 0.040 kg
initial speed of golf club 45 m s−1
final speed of golf club after hitting golf ball 40 m s−1

The golf ball is stationary before being hit. The ball’s speed immediately after being hit is 63 m s−1 .
Use calculations to determine whether the collision is elastic or inelastic. Show your working.

32 Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition © John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 AOS 1 Topic 2 Subtopic 2.5 Review

Source: VCE 2020 Physics Exam, Section B, Q.9; © VCAA

Question 13 (4 marks)
An ideal spring is compressed by 0.15 m. A ball of mass 0.20 k g is placed in contact with the compressed
spring. The spring is then released, causing the ball to move horizontally, with a velocity of v, across a
smooth surface, as shown in the figure.
v
spring

3.0 m

ground

a. If the spring constant is 1250 N m−1 , show that the magnitude of the initial velocity, v, of the ball is
Figure 9

12 m s−1 , correct to two significant figures. (2 marks)

b. Calculate the speed of the ball after it has fallen a vertical distance of 2.5 m. Show
your working. (2 marks)

© John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition 33
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 AOS 1 Topic 2 Subtopic 2.5 Review

Source: VCE 2020 Physics Exam Section B, Q.10; © VCAA

Question 14 (12 marks)

vehicle collisions. She simulates colliding a car of mass 1200 kg, moving at 10 m s−1 , into a stationary van
Jacinda designs a computer simulation program as part of her practical investigation into the physics of

of mass 2200 kg. After the collision, the van moves to the right at 6.5 m s−1 . This situation is shown in
Figure 10.
Before collision
10 m s–1

1200 kg 2200 kg

car van

After collision
6.5 m s–1
v?
1200 kg 2200 kg

car van

Figure 10
a. Calculate the speed of the car after the collision and indicate the direction it would be travelling in. Show
your working. (4 marks)

b. Explain, using appropriate physics, why this collision represents an example of either an elastic or an
inelastic collision. (3 marks)

34 Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition © John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Unit 3 AOS 1 Topic 2 Subtopic 2.5 Review

c. The collision between the car and the van takes 40 ms.
i. Calculate the magnitude and indicate the direction of the average force on the van by
the car. (3 marks)

ii. Calculate the magnitude and indicate the direction of the average force on the car by
the van. (2 marks)

Source: VCE 2019, Physics Exam, Section B, Q.8; © VCAA

Question 15 (3 marks)
A 250 g toy car performs a loop in the apparatus shown in the figure.
A

h
0.40 m

The car starts from rest at point A and travels along the track without any air resistance or retarding
frictional forces. The radius of the car’s path in the loop is 0.20 m. When the car reaches point B it is
travelling at a speed of 3.0 m s–1 .
Calculate the value of h. Show your working.

© John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition 35
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Answers and marking guide

2.2 Momentum and impulse

a. i. F = mg sin 𝜃
Question 1

F = 2.0 × 9.8 × sin 25° [1 mark]

F = 8.3 N [1 mark]
VCAA Assessment Report note:

ii. Fnet = Fg − Ff [1 mark]

The most common errors were mathematical and usually involved the wrong trigonometry identity.

Fnet = ma
= 2 × 3.2
= 6.4 N
6.4 = 8.3 − Ff
⇒ Ff = 1.9 N [1 mark]
VCAA Assessment Report note:
There was no common error. Students who failed to score marks for this question generally could not
demonstrate any suitable strategy to solve the problem.

(m1 vi ) + (m2 vi ) = (m1 + m2 )vf

b. i. The problem required ‘conservation of momentum’. [1 mark]

(2.0 × 4.0) + (2.0 × 0) = (4.0)vf

⇒ vf = 2.0 m s
[1 mark]
−1
[1 mark]
VCAA Assessment Report note:
Students who were not able to score full marks could, generally, identify the principle as conservation

ii. KEinit = mv2

of momentum but were unable to express it in mathematical form.
1

= 0.5 × 2 × 42
2

= 16 J [1 mark]
KEfinal = mv
1 2

= 0.5 × 4 × 22
2

= 8J [1 mark]
The decrease in kinetic energy means the collision is inelastic. [1 mark]
VCAA Assessment Report note:
The most common errors were mathematical. Students frequently forgot to square the velocity.
Question 2
a. Acceleration at W is greater than zero [1 mark] and less than 9.8 m s−2 . [1 mark]
Acceleration at X is zero. [1 mark]

mgh = kx2 [1 mark]

Acceleration at Y is greater than zero and directed to the left. [1 mark]
1

5.0 × 9.8 × h = 0.5 × 100 × 3.02 [1 mark]

b.
2

h = 9.2 m [1 mark]

36 Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition © John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

kx = mv
1 2 1 2

0.5 × 100 × 32 = 0.5 × 5.0 × v2

c.
2 2

v = 13.4 m s−1
p = mv
[1 mark]

p = 5.0 × 13.4
p = 67 kg m s−1 [1 mark]
d. The momentum is transferred to the earth. [1 mark]

Δv
a. f = m
Question 3

Δt
Δv = 3.3 − (−3.6)
= 6.9 m s−1 [1 mark]
F = 50 × 10−3 ×
40 × 10−3
6.9
[1 mark]
F = 8.6 N [1 mark]
The force acts upwards. [1 mark]
b. Some of the energy is converted to SPE in the ball. [1 mark]
The rest is lost as heat/sound. [1 mark]
c. The momentum is transferred to the earth. [1 mark]

a. Impulse = change in momentum

Question 4

Δp = pf − pi
[1 mark]

Δp = 8 − (−12) [1 mark]
= 20 kg m s−1 or 20 N s [1 mark]
I = Ft
20 = F × 0.01 [1 mark]
b.

∴ F = 2000 N [1 mark]
c. Ekinitial = mv
1 2

= (0.5 × 2.0 × 102 ) + (0.5 × 0.2 × 602 )

2

= 460 J [1 mark]
Ekfinal = mv
1 2

= (0.5 × 0.2 × 402 )

2

= 160 J [1 mark]
The reduction in kinetic energy indicates that the collision is inelastic.

Impulse = FΔt
Question 5

= mΔv
= 4.0 × 2.0
= 8.0
⇒ unit is N s or kg m s−1
[1 mark]
[1 mark]

The most common error was to incorrectly quote the unit either as kg/m s−1 or N/s.
VCAA Assessment Report note:

© John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition 37
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Question 6

mA uA = mA vA + mB vB
By conservation of momentum (taking right as positive)

⇒ 4 × 8 = 4 × (−2) + 8 × vB [1 mark]
⇒ vB = 5 m s−1 [1 mark]
VCAA Assessment Report note:
The most common error was to omit the negative sign for the final velocity of block A. Students should
ensure that they understand the vector nature of momentum.

F= =
Question 7
impulse 1.70
[1 mark]
= 212.5 N [1 mark]
time 0.0080

Question 8

So FSH Δt = mSS ΔvSS [1 mark]

Magnitude of impulse on shuttle = magnitude of change in momentum of space station (or shuttle).

⇒ FSH = 3 × 105 ×
0.098
[1 mark]
20
= 1470 N = 1.5 × 103 N [1 mark]
Question 9

⇒ 80 × 4 = (80 + 40) × v [1 mark]

Initial momentum of Ranjiv = final momentum of (Ranjiv + trolley)

⇒ v = 2.7 m s−1 [1 mark]

2.3 Work done

E = kx2
Question 1
1

0.9 = 0.5 × × x2
2
40
( )

⇒ x = 0.06 m
0.08

a. Energy stored = work done to compress the spring

Question 2

= area under the graph

E = base × height [1 mark]
1

= × 0.50 × 72
2
1

= 18 J [1 mark]
2

1
The alternative method of finding the spring constant k and then calculating kx2 is more long-winded.
b. The gain in KE = the initial stored energy
2

mv = 18 [1 mark]
1 2

2 × 18
v2 =
2

=9
4

v = 3.0 m s−1 [1 mark]

VCAA Assessment Report note:
The most common error was not to take the square root at the end.

38 Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition © John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Question 3
The claim is incorrect. [1 mark]
The force is at right angles to the displacement and so zero work is done. [1 mark]

W = area under F − s graph

Question 4

W = × 2 × 500 + 2 × 500
1

W = 1500 J
[1 mark]
2
[1 mark]

W = area under F − s graph

Question 5

W = × 0.12 × 300
1

W = 18 J
[1 mark]
2
[1 mark]
Question 6
Work done = area under graph up to 500 m [1 mark]

⇒ W ≈ 12.5 × 2 × 104 = 2.5 × 105 J [1 mark]

Area is about 12.5 squares, each 2 × 104 J

2.4 Kinetic and potential energy

Question 1

mgh = mv2
a. Using the conservation of energy:
1

mgh = ✚
2
1 2
✚ mv
2

9.8 × 15 = 0.5 × v2
The masses can be cancelled

v = 300
[1 mark]

v = 17.3 m s−1 [1 mark]

2

b. mghA = mghc + mv2c [1 mark]

1

Since v2 = rg,
2

mghA mghC + mrg

1
2
Cancelling the m and g on both sides gives:
hA = hc + r
1

Since hC = 2r,
2

hA = 2.5r
r=
1.5

= 6 [1 mark]
2.5

Therefore, the height at C will be 12 m.

VCAA Assessment Report note:
This question was not well done. Some students substituted the velocity value from part a into the
equation given in part b.
c. The radius of the loop will have to decrease. Friction will cause the velocity to decrease [1 mark] and
since the radius is related to the velocity by r =
v2
[1 mark], if the velocity decreases the radius will
g
have to decrease as well [1 mark].

© John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition 39
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

VCAA Assessment Report note:

Of the students who were awarded marks, all could articulate that the radius needed to decrease.
Most could state that this was due to a reduction in velocity, but just over 25% were able to identify the
mathematical relationship between velocity and radius.

a. mg = ky [1 mark]
Question 2

2.0 × 10
y=
y = 0.20 m [1 mark]
100

The extension of the spring from its unstretched position to its equilibrium position is 0.20 m

mgx = kx2 [1 mark]

b. i. By conservation of energy:
1

x=
2
2mg

2 × 2.0 × 10
=
k

= 0.40 m [1 mark]
100

Etotal = mgh
ii. Total energy of the system:

= 2.0 × 10 × 0.4
= 8J
The maximum velocity occurs at the mid-point where x = 0.20 m.
[1 mark]

GPEmid = mgx
= 2.0 × 10 × 0.20
= 4.0 J [1 mark]
SPEmid = kx
1 2

= 0.5 × 100 × 0.202

2

= 2.0 J [1 mark]

Ek = mv2
Therefore, there is 2.0 J of energy as kinetic energy.
1

2 = 0.5 × 2.0 × v2
2

∴ v = 1.4 m s−1 [1 mark]

Question 3

k= = 40 N m−1 [1 mark]
a. Spring constant (k) is given by gradient of graph. [1 mark]
60

b. SPEy = kx2
1.5
1

= 0.5 × 40 × 12
2

= 20 J [1 mark]
SPEx = kx
1 2

= 0.5 × 40 × 0.52
2

= 5J
ΔSPE = 20 − 5
[1 mark]

= 15 J [1 mark]

40 Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition © John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

SPE = area under graph

c. The kinetic energy of the ball equals the energy stored in the spring minus the work done against gravity.

SPE = 0.5 × 1 × 40 − 0.5 × 0.5 × 20

= 15 J [1 mark]
Work against gravity = mgh
= 2 × 9.8 × 0.5
= 9.8 J [1 mark]
∴ Ek = 15 − 9.8
= 5.2 J [1 mark]
Ek = mv2
1

5.2 = 0.5 × 2 × v2
2

v = 2.28 m s−1 [1 mark]

mvP + mgh = mv2Q

Question 4
1 2 1

0.5 × 42 + 9.8 × 5 = 0.5 × v2Q

2 2

8 + 49 = 0.5v2Q
[1 mark]

vQ = 10.7 m s−1 [1 mark]

m1 vi + m2vi = (m1 + m2 )vf

Question 5

(4 × 5) + (2 × 2) = 6vf
vf = 4.0 m s−1
Ek (initial) = m1 v2i + m2 v2i
1 1

= (0.5 × 4.0 × 52 ) + (0.5 × 2.0 × 22 )

2 2

= 54 J [1 mark]
Ek (final) = (m1 + m2 )v2f
1

= 0.5 × 6.0 × 42
2

= 48 J [1 mark]
Therefore, the collision is inelastic. [1 mark]
VCAA Assessment Report note:
The most common error was to calculate the initial kinetic energy of the system but fail to calculate the final
velocity, and therefore the final kinetic energy. A number of students interpreted the diagram as stating that
the final velocity of the system was zero.

mgx = kx2 [1 mark]

Question 6
1

2.0 × 9.8 × x = 0.5 × 2.0 × x2 [1 mark]

a.
2

x = 1.96 m [1 mark]
The most common error was to use mg = kx.
b. Students were required to identify the following:
• The gravitational potential energy is maximal at the top and decreases as the mass falls. [1 mark]
• The spring potential energy is minimal at the top and increases as the mass falls. [1 mark]
• The kinetic energy is zero at the top and increases to its maximum in the middle before decreasing to
zero at the bottom. [1 mark]
• The total energy of the mass (gravitational + kinetic) decreases as the mass falls. [1 mark]

© John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition 41
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

VCAA Assessment Report note:

The question stem asked students to explain how the energies varied as the mass falls. Many students
failed to do this, instead simply stating where each energy was maximal or minimal but not stating
clearly how the energy varied. The question clearly asked how the total energy of the mass varies (rather
than the system), but some students stated that the total energy of the mass remained constant. Students
who clearly stated that the total energy of the system remained constant were correct. A large number of
students wrote that ‘the energy is all gravitational at the top then it is converted to kinetic in the middle
before being converted to spring energy at the bottom’. This overly simplistic representation suggested
that students do not have a sufficient understanding of spring systems. Also of concern was the number
of students who suggested that at the midpoint ‘most of the energy is kinetic’. This was also incorrect.
The kinetic energy component of the total energy never accounts for more than 25 per cent, which
contradicts the assertion of ‘most’ and, in fact, at the midpoint most of the energy (50 per cent) is
gravitational potential energy.
Question 7

mv = mgh
Gain of KE = loss of gravitational PE
1 2

0.5 × 1000 × v2 = 1000 × 9.8 × 20 [1 mark]

2

v2 = 392 ⇒ v = 19.8 m s−1 [1 mark]

Question 8

v2 = u2 + 2as = 0 + 2 × 2 × 1 = 4
Constant acceleration, for both blocks, gives:

⇒ v = 2 m s−1 [1 mark]

Ek = mv2 = 0.5 × 0.4 × 22

Then, for block m1
1

= 0.8 J
2
[1 mark]
VCAA Assessment Report note:
A common mistake was to use an acceleration of 10 m s−2 in the constant acceleration equation. Another
was to assume that the increase in kinetic energy of block 1 would be equal to the loss of gravitational
potential energy of block 2.

Work done on block = KE gain by block

Question 9

= 5.4 J [1 mark]
Question 10
Inelastic [1 mark]

KEbefore = mv2 = × 20 × 103 × 82 = 640 × 103 J [1 mark]

Proof:
1 1
2 2

KEafter = × 80 × 103 × 22 = 160 × 103 J

However
1
2
So kinetic energy has been lost. [1 mark]
Question 11

Etotal = Ek + Es + Eg
a. At point Z, the mass is stationary. Hence, using the graph

= 0 + 20 + 0 = 20 J [1 mark]

42 Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition © John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Ek = Etotal − Es − Eg
b. From the law of conservation of energy at point Y,

= 20 − 5 − 10 = 5 J [1 mark]
Now Ek = mv2
1

1 × v2
⇒5= ⇒ v = 10 = 3.2 m s−1 [1 mark]
2
√
2
VCAA Assessment Report note:
The main problem seemed to be that students did not identify that there were three different forms of
energy involved at all stages of the motion. They did not subtract both the gravitational potential energy
(GPE) and spring potential energy (SPE) from the total energy.
c. The fundamental mistake was to assume that the spring PE was zero at point Q. (This point must
be made.)
The spring PE is zero when the string is unstretched, i.e. at 2.0 m length. [1 mark]
Spring PE is proportional to (displacement)2; it is not linear. [1 mark]
The latter two marks could be gained by calculating the correct total energies at points P and Q.
Question 12
Comment: The ball starts and finishes at rest, i.e. with zero kinetic energy.
Question 13
Comment: Sum of kinetic energy + gravitational potential energy + elastic potential energy = constant
(assuming no friction)

2.5 Review
Question 1

rise 4 × 103
Spring constant is found from the gradient.
k= =
k = 1.0 × 105 N m−1
run 0.04

Question 2

E = bh
Stored potential energy is found using the area under the graph.
1

E = 0.5 × 0.02 × 2.0 × 103

2

E = 20 J
( )

mi vi = mf vf
Question 3

(10 000 × 3.0) + (y × 0) = (10 000 + Y) × 2.0

⇒ Y = 5000 kg
Question 4
As both blocks have the same acceleration, they both have the same force to mass ratio.

W = Fd
Question 5

W = 250 × 20
W = 5 kN

© John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition 43
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Ft = mv
Question 6

F × 1 × 10−3 = 0.040 × 50
F = 2 × 103 N

∑ pinitial = ∑ pfinal
Question 7

10 × 6.0 + 5.0 × 0 = 15 × v
v=
60

= 4.0 m s−1
15

Question 8

initial Ek = mv2
Momentum is conserved in all collisions, but kinetic energy is lost in this collision:
1

= × 10 × 62
2
1

= 180 kJ
2

final Ek = mv2
1

= × 15 × 42
2
1

= 120 kJ
2

Impulse = FΔt = 4.0 × 5.0 = 20 Ns

Question 9

Initial KE of car = work done to compress the spring = area under the F − x graph KE = area under graph =
Question 10

200 × 0.5
× Fmax x = = 50 J
1
2 2

20 000 km h−1 = 5.56 × 103 m s−1

Question 11

E = mv2
1

E = 0.5 × 1000 × 5.56 × 103

2

E = 1.54 × 1010 J
( )2

Ekbefore = 0.5 × 0.5 × 452

Question 12

Ekbefore = 506 J [1 mark]

Ekafter = 0.5 × 0.5 × 402 + 0.5 × 0.04 × 632
Ekafter = 480 J [1 mark]
The decrease in kinetic energy indicates an inelastic collision. [1 mark]

kx = mv
Question 13
1 2 1 2

0.5 × 1250 × 0.152 = 0.5 × 0.20 × v2

a. [1 mark]
2 2

14.06 = 0.1v2

v=
√
14.06
[1 mark]
v = 12 m s−1
0.1

44 Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition © John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

VCAA examination report note:

stem ( 12 m s−1 in this case), there are no marks awarded for the final value. In these cases marks are
Students need to be aware that where a question asks them to show that the result is a value given in the

only awarded for showing working. Students who did not show adequate working (i.e. the equivalence of
SPE and KE) were not awarded full marks.
b. Vertical component:

v2 = u2 + 2ax
The impact velocity is the Pythagorean sum of the horizontal and vertical velocities. [1 mark]

v2 = 02 + 2 (−9.8) (−2.5)
v = 784
v = 28 m s−1
√

[1 mark]

c2 = a2 + b2
This problem can also be solved by using conservation of energy.

v2 = 122 + 72
v = 193
v = 14 m s−1
√

[1 mark]
VCAA examination report note:
The most common error was to calculate the vertical component only.
Question 14

pi = pf [1 mark]
a. Applying conservation of momentum:

1200 × 10 = 2200 × 6.5 + 1200 × vf [1 mark]

12 000 = 14300 + 1200vf
−2300
vf =
vf = −1.9 m s−1 [1 mark]
1200

The car would be travelling at 1.9 m s−1 to the left. [1 mark]

VCAA examination report note:
Students were then required to indicate that the negative sign indicates the velocity is to the left.
Some students used compass bearings (east/west) for directions. Unless the student draws a compass rose
to indicate what they mean by east and west this cannot be accepted.

Ek = mv2
b. Before collision:
1

= 0.5 × 1200 × 102

2

= 6.0 × 104 J [1 mark]

Ek = m1 v21 + m2 v22
After collision:
1 1

= 0.5 × 1200 × 1.92 + 0.5 × 2200 × 6.52

(2 2

= 4.9 × 104 J
) ( )

[1 mark]
The reduction in kinetic energy indicates that the collision is inelastic. [1 mark]
VCAA examination report note:
Most students recognised the collision was inelastic. Common errors occurred with the calculation of the

students either using −1.9 m s−1 or omitting the energy of one of the vehicles altogether.
initial and final energies. Of these, it was the final that was most commonly calculated incorrectly, with

© John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition 45
 Exam question booklet | Topic 2

Δp
c. i. Favg =
Δt
[1 mark]

=
Δt
mΔv

2200 × 6.5
[1 mark]

=
40 × 10−3
= 358 kN to the right [1 mark]
As the van’s change in velocity is to the right, the force acts to the right.
VCAA examination report note:
Many students were able to identify the direction correctly but unable to calculate the actual value.
At this level, students should be able to convert between SI prefixes, but many could not convert a

Δp
ii. Favg =
correctly calculated value in Newtons into kilo-Newtons.

Δt
=
Δt
mΔv

1200 × (−1.9 − 10)

=
40 × 10−3
= −358 kN [1 mark]

Favg = −358 kN to the left [1 mark]

As the car’s change in velocity is to the left, the force acts to the left.

VCAA examination report note:

Students were not required to perform the calculation. Those who indicated that this was an example
of Newton’s third law and, therefore, that the force would have the same magnitude but opposite
direction were also awarded full marks.
There was a small number of students who determined that a new calculation was required and then
demonstrated incorrect physics.
Question 15
The gravitational potential energy of the car at point A on the track is equal to the gravitational potential
energy and kinetic energy at point B on the track. Note that the toy car has no kinetic energy at point A

GPEA = GPEB + KEB

because it starts from rest.

mghA = mghB + mvB 2

1

(0.25 × 9.8 × hA ) = (0.25 × 9.8 × 0.40) + × 0.25 × 3

2
1
( )
2
[1 mark]
2.45hA = 0.98 + 1.125 [1 mark]
2

hA =
2.105

hA = 0.86 m [1 mark]
2.45

46 Jacaranda Physics 2 VCE Units 3 and 4 Fifth Edition © John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd