Mathematics 9709 · AS & A Level · Kinematics of motion in a straight line

Kinematics of motion in a straight line — practice question

Particles $P$ and $Q$ are connected at the two ends of a light inextensible string that passes over a fixed smooth pulley. The system is released from rest, with the string taut, the straight sections vertical, and both particles $2\,\text{m}$ above horizontal ground. $P$ moves vertically downwards and does not rebound when it reaches the ground. At the moment that $P$ reaches the ground, $Q$ is at point $X$, from where it continues to move vertically upwards without reaching the pulley. Given that $P$ has mass $0.9\,\text{kg}$ and that the tension in the string is $7.2\,\text{N}$ while $P$ is moving, find
(main)[6]

the complete distance travelled by $Q$ from the moment it first arrives at $X$ until it gets back to $X$.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 6-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Apply Newton’s second law: $0.9g-7.2=0.9a$

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