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

Newton's laws of motion — practice question

Particles $P$ and $Q$, each of mass $m\,\text{kg}$, are fastened to the two ends of a light inextensible string. That string passes over a fixed smooth pulley attached to the edge of a rough plane. The plane makes an angle $\alpha$ with the horizontal, where $\tan \alpha = \frac{7}{24}$. Particle $P$ is on the plane and particle $Q$ hangs vertically, as shown in the diagram. The part of the string between $P$ and the pulley is parallel to a line of greatest slope on the plane. The system is in limiting equilibrium.
(i)[5]

Show that the coefficient of friction between $P$ and the plane equals $\frac{4}{3}$.

(ii)[5]

A force of magnitude $10\,\text{N}$ acts on $P$, up a line of greatest slope of the plane, causing $P$ to accelerate at $2.5\,\text{m s}^{-2}$. Find the value of $m$.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 10-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Normal reaction identified correctly: $R = mg\cos\alpha$

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