Physics 5054 · O Level · Motion

Motion — practice question

There is no atmosphere on the Moon. An astronaut on the Moon releases a feather and a hammer from the same height at the same moment. Each one accelerates downward at $1.6\,\text{m s}^{-2}$, and they reach the surface together.
(a)[3]

The hammer has a much greater weight than the feather. Explain, in terms of mass and weight, why both objects have the same acceleration.

(b(i))[2]

Both the feather and the hammer need $1.5\,\text{s}$ to reach the ground after being released from rest. Calculate the speed of the objects when they arrive at the ground.

(b(ii))[1]

On Fig. 1.1, draw the speed-time graph for the descent. At the right location on the y-axis, write the speed value at time $t = 1.5\,\text{s}$.

(b(iii))[2]

From the speed-time graph in (b)(ii), determine the height from which the objects were dropped.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 8-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Weight varies directly with mass, or W = mg

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