Mathematics 9709 · AS & A Level · Newton's laws of motion

Newton's laws of motion — practice question

A light inextensible string has one end attached to particle $A$ of mass $3\,\text{kg}$, while the other end is connected to particle $B$ of mass $4\,\text{kg}$. Particle $A$ is on a rough plane inclined at $30^\circ$ to the horizontal, and particle $B$ is on a smooth horizontal plane. A second light inextensible string is joined to $B$; its other end is attached to particle $C$ of mass $5\,\text{kg}$, which hangs vertically. Both strings are taut and pass over small smooth pulleys fixed at the ends of the horizontal plane. The segment of string from $A$ to the pulley is parallel to a line of greatest slope of the inclined plane, and $A$, $B$ and $C$ all lie in the same vertical plane (see diagram). The system is released from rest. In the motion that follows, $C$ moves vertically downwards with acceleration $2\,\text{m s}^{-2}$, and neither $A$ nor $B$ reaches a pulley.
(a)[3]

Find the tension in each of the strings.

(b)[4]

Find the coefficient of friction for $A$ and the inclined plane.

(c)[5]

After the system has been moving for $1.5\,\text{s}$, the string attached to $A$ breaks. Find the total distance that $A$ travels up the plane from the instant the system is released from rest until the instant that $A$ comes to instantaneous rest.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 12-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: For $C$: $5g-T_{BC}=5\times2$

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