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

Energy, work and power — practice question

The diagram represents the vertical cross-section $ABCD$ of a surface. $BC$ is a circular arc, and $AB$ and $CD$ are tangents to $BC$ at $B$ and $C$ respectively. $A$ and $D$ are at the same horizontal level, while $B$ and $C$ lie $2.7\text{ m}$ and $3.0\text{ m}$ above the level of $A$ and $D$ respectively. A particle $P$ of mass $0.2\text{ kg}$ is projected from $A$ with speed $8\text{ m s}^{-1}$ in the direction of $AB$. The parts of the surface containing $AB$ and $BC$ are smooth. The section containing $CD$ applies a constant frictional force to $P$ as it travels from $C$ to $D$, and $P$ is at rest when it reaches $D$.
(i)[4]

Find how much the speed of $P$ decreases as $P$ travels along the surface from $B$ to $C$.

(ii)[5]

Find the speed of $P$ when it is at the midpoint of $CD$.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 9-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: From conservation of energy between $A$ and $B$ or $A$ and $C$: $\tfrac{1}{2}mv_B^2 = \tfrac{1}{2}mv_A^2 - mg\times2.7$

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