Mathematics 9709 · AS & A Level · Momentum

Momentum — practice question

For a particle $P$ with mass $m\,\text{kg}$ and speed $u\,\text{m s}^{-1}$, the momentum is $4\,\text{N s}$ and the kinetic energy is $16\,\text{J}$.
(a)[3]

Determine the values of $m$ and $u$.

(b)[4]

Particle $P$ is projected on a smooth horizontal surface with speed $v\,\text{m s}^{-1}$ directly towards a stationary particle $Q$ of mass $1.25\,\text{kg}$. After the collision between $P$ and $Q$, the velocity of $P$ is $w\,\text{m s}^{-1}$ and the velocity of $Q$ is $2w\,\text{m s}^{-1}$. The decrease in kinetic energy during the collision is $25\,\text{J}$. Find the values of $v$ and $w$.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 7-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Applies energy equation $\tfrac12 mu^2=16$.

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