Physics 5054 · O Level · Energy

Energy — practice question

A small coin with mass $m$ starts from rest. It is released from a height $h$ above the ground. Its speed is $v$ when it reaches the ground. The gravitational field strength $g$ is $10\,\text{N kg}^{-1}$.
(a)[1]

State an expression for the gravitational potential energy of the coin at height $h$ above the ground and for the kinetic energy of the coin moving at speed $v$.

(b)[3]

A coin is released from the roof of a building that is $380\,\text{m}$ high. Find the coin's speed as it reaches the ground. You may ignore air resistance.

(c(i))[1]

With air resistance negligible, a heavier coin and a lighter coin dropped from the same height strike the ground at the same speed. Explain why.

(c(ii))[2]

When air resistance is present, coins of different masses do not strike the ground at the same speed if they are dropped from the same height. Explain why.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 7-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: The expressions are $mgh$ and $\tfrac{1}{2}mv^{2}$.

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