Mathematics 9709 · AS & A Level · Energy, work and power

Energy, work and power — practice question

Particles $A$ and $B$, whose masses are $0.8\,\text{kg}$ and $1.6\,\text{kg}$, are joined by a light inextensible string. $A$ is on a smooth plane inclined at angle $\theta$ to the horizontal, with $\sin \theta = \frac{3}{5}$. A small smooth pulley $P$ is fixed at the top of the plane, and $B$ hangs freely (see diagram). The part $AP$ of the string is parallel to the line of greatest slope of the plane. The particles are let go from rest while both parts of the string remain taut.
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Find the speed of the particles, using an energy method, once each particle has travelled $0.5\,\text{m}$, provided that $A$ has not yet arrived at the pulley.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 6-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: A correct kinetic energy formula for either particle, for example $\tfrac12\times0.8v^2$ or $\tfrac12\times1.6v^2$

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