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G12 Physical Sciences Paper 1 Revision Material

Phisical Sciences (The Cape Academy of Mathematics, Science and Technology)

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Physical Sciences P1 (Physics) Gr 12 3 FS / January 2021

TERMS AND DEFINITIONS

MECHANICS: NEWTON’S LAWS

Acceleration The rate of change of velocity.
Free-body diagrams This is a diagram that shows the relative magnitudes and directions of forces acting
on a body/particle that has been isolated from its surroundings.
Kinetic frictional force The force acting parallel to a surface and opposes the motion of a MOVING object
(fk) relative to the surface.
Mass The amount of matter in a body measured in kilogram (kg).
Maximum static The static frictional force is a maximum (f max ) just before the object starts to move
s
frictional force (f max
s ) across the surface.
Newton's first law of A body will remain in its state of rest or motion at constant velocity unless a non-zero
motion resultant/net force acts on it.
Inertia The resistance of a body to a change in its state of rest or uniform motion in a straight
line.
Mass is a measure of an object’s inertia.
Newton's second law When a resultant/net force acts on an object, the object will accelerate in the direction
of motion of the force at an acceleration directly proportional to the force and inversely
proportional to the mass of the object.
In symbols: Fnet = ma
Newton’s third law of When object A exerts a force on object B, object B SIMULTANEOUSLY exerts a
motion force equal in magnitude but opposite in direction on object A.
Newton's law of Each body in the universe attracts every other body with a force that is directly
universal gravitation proportional to the product of their masses and inversely proportional to the square of
the distance between their centres.
Gm1m 2
In symbols: F =
r2
Normal force The force or the component of a force which a surface exerts on an object with which
it is in contact, and which is perpendicular to the surface.
Static frictional force The force acting parallel to a surface and opposes the tendency of motion of a
(fs) STATIONARY object relative to the surface.
Weight The gravitational force, in newton (N), exerted on an object.
Weightlessness The sensation experienced when all contact forces are removed i.e. no external
objects touch one's body.

MECHANICS: MOMENTUM AND IMPULSE

Contact forces Contact forces arise from the physical contact between two objects (e.g. a soccer
player kicking a ball.)
Non-contact forces Non-contact forces arise even if two objects do not touch each other (e.g. the force of
attraction of the earth on a parachutist even when the earth is not in direct contact
with the parachutist.)
Momentum Linear momentum is the product of an object’s mass and its velocity.
In symbols: p = mv Unit: N∙s or kg∙m∙s-1
Newton’s Second Law The net (or resultant) force acting on an object is equal to the rate of change of
of motion in terms of momentum of the object in the direction of the net force.
momentum Δp
In symbols: Fnet =
Δt
Principle of The total linear momentum in an isolated system remains constant (is conserved).
conservation of linear In symbols: p before = p after
momentum
Closed system A system in which the net external force acting on the system is zero.
Impulse The product of the resultant/net force acting on an object and the time the
resultant/net force acts on the object.
In symbols: Impulse = FnetΔt Unit: N∙s or kg∙m∙s-1
Impulse-momentum In symbols: FnetΔt = mΔv = m(vf – vi) Unit: N∙s or kg∙m∙s-1
theorem
Elastic collision A collision in which both total momentum and total kinetic energy are conserved.
Inelastic collision A collision during which kinetic energy is not conserved.

Terms, definitions, questions & answers © Free State Department of Education

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Physical Sciences P1 (Physics) Gr 12 4 FS / January 2021

MECHANICS: VERTICAL PROJECTILE MOTION

1-D motion One-dimensional motion./Linear motion./Motion in one line.
Acceleration The rate of change of velocity.
Symbol: a
Unit: meters per second squared (m∙s-2)
Gravitational The acceleration of a body due to the force of attraction of the earth.
acceleration (g)
Displacement Change in position.
Symbol: ∆x (horizontal displacement) or ∆y (vertical displacement)
Unit: meters (m)
Free fall Motion of an objects under the influence of the gravitational force only.
Gravitational force A force of attraction of one body on another due to their masses.
Position Where an object is relative to a reference point.
Symbol: x (horizontal position) or y (vertical position)
Unit: meters (m)
Projectile An object which has been given an intial velocity and on which the only force acting is
the gravitational force/weight.
Velocity The rate of change of position.
Symbol: v Unit: meters per second (m∙s-1)
MECHANICS: WORK, ENERGY AND POWER
Work Work done on an object by a constant force is the product of the magnitude of the
force, the magnitude of the displacement and the angle between the force and the
displacement.
In symbols: W = F x cos 
Positive work The kinetic energy of the object increases.
Negative work The kinetic energy of the object decreases.
Work-energy theorem The net/total work done on an object is equal to the change in the object's kinetic
energy OR the work done on an object by a resultant/net force is equal to the change
in the object's kinetic energy.
In symbols: Wnet = Δ K = Kf - Ki.
Principle of The total mechanical energy (sum of gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy)
conservation of in an isolated system remains constant. (A system is isolated when the resultant/net
mechanical energy external force acting on the system is zero.)
In symbols: EM(intial) = EM(final) OR (Ep + Ek)initial = (Ep + Ek)final
Conservative force A force for which the work done (in moving an object between two points) is
independent of the path taken.
Examples are gravitational force, the elastic force in a spring and electrostatic forces
(coulomb forces).
Non-conservative force A force for which the work done (in moving an object between two points) depends on
the path taken.
Examples are frictional force, air resistance, tension in a chord, etc.
Power The rate at which work is done or energy is expended.
W
In symbols: P =
t
Unit: watt (W)
WAVES, SOUND AND LIGHT: DOPPLER EFFECT
Doppler Effect The apparent change in frequency/pitch of the sound detected by a listener because
the sound source and the listener have different velocities relative to the medium of
sound propagation.
OR: The change in frequency/pitch of the sound detected by a listener due to relative
motion between the sound source and the listener.
Red shift Observed when light from an object increased in wavelength (decrease in frequency).
A red shift occurs when a light source moves away from an observer.
Blue shift Observed when light from an object decreased in wavelength (increase in frequency).
A blue shift occurs when a light source moves towards an observer.
Frequency The number of vibrations per second.
Symbol: f Unit: hertz (Hz) or per second (s-1)
Wavelength The distance between two successive points in phase.
Symbol: λ Unit: meter (m)
Wave equation Speed = frequency x wavelength

Terms, definitions, questions & answers © Free State Department of Education

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Physical Sciences P1 (Physics) Gr 12 5 FS / January 2021

ELECTRICITY AND MAGNETISM: ELECTROSTATICS

Coulomb's law The magnitude of the electrostatic force exerted by one point charge on another point
charge is directly proportional to the product of the magnitudes of the charges and
inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them.
In symbols: F = kQ1Q2
r2
Electric field A region of space in which an electric charge experiences a force.
Electric field at a point The electric field at a point is the electrostatic force experienced per unit positive
charge placed at that point.
In symbols: E = F Unit: N∙C-1
q
Direction of electric The direction of the electric field at a point is the direction that a positive test charge
field would move if placed at that point.
ELECTRICITY AND MAGNETISM: ELECTRIC CIRCUITS
Ohm's law The potential difference across a conductor is directly proportional to the current in the
conductor at constant temperature.
In symbols: R = V
I
Ohmic conductors A conductor that obeys Ohm’s law i.e the ratio of potential difference to current remains
constant. (Resistance of the conducter remains constant.)
Non-ohmic conductors A conductor that does not obey Ohm’s law i.e the ratio of potential difference to current
does NOT remain constant. (Resistance of the conductor increases as the current
increases e.g. a bulb.)
Power Rate at which work is done.
W
In symbols: P = Unit: watt (W)
t
2
Other formulae: P = VI; P= V
P = I2R;
R
kilowatt hour (kWh) The use of 1 kilowatt of electricity for 1 hour.
Internal resistance The resistance within a battery that causes a drop in the potential difference of the
battery when there is a current in the circuit.
emf Maximum energy provided/work done by a battery per coulomb/unit charge passing
through it.
(It is the potential difference across the ends of a battery when there is NO current in
the circuit.)

Terminal potential The energy transferred to or the work done per coulomb of charge passing through
difference the battery when the battery delivers a current.
(It is the potential difference across the ends of a battery when there is a current in
the circuit.)
ELECTRICITY AND MAGNETISM: ELECTRICAL MACHINES
Generator A device that transfers mechanical energy into electrical energy.
Faraday’s law of The magnitude of the induced emf across the ends of a conductor is directly
electromagnetic proportional to the rate of change in the magnetic flux linkage with the conductor.
induction (When a conductor is moved in magnetic field, a potential difference is induced across
the conductor.)

Fleming’s Right Hand Hold the thumb, forefinger and second finger of the RIGHT hand at right angles to each
Rule for generators other. If the forefinger points in the direction of the magnetic field (N to S) and the thumb
points in the direction of the force (movement), then the second finger points in the
direction of the induced current.

Electric motor A device that transfers electrical energy into mechanical energy.
Fleming’s Left Hand Hold the thumb, forefinger and second finger of the LEFT hand at right angles to each
Rule for electric motors other. If the forefinger points in the direction of the magnetic field (N to S) and the
second finger points in the direction of the conventional current, then the thumb will
point in the direction of the force (movement).
Coventional current Flow of electric charge from positive to negative.
AC Alternating current
The direction of the current changes each half cycle.
Terms, definitions, questions & answers © Free State Department of Education

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FORCES AND NEWTON’S LAWS

At the end of the session learners must:

 Define normal force, frictional force, static frictional force and kinetic frictional force
 Solve problems using f = µN
 Draw the force diagram and free-body diagram
 Resolve a two-dimensional force into its parallel (x) and perpendicular (y) components
 Determine the resultant/net force of two or more forces.
 State Newton’s first, second and third law of motion
 State Newton’s Law of Universal Gravitation
 Calculate acceleration due to gravity on a planet
 Calculate the weight of an object on other planets with different values of gravitational
acceleration
 Describe weight and mass
 Explain weightlessness
CORE CONCEPTS AND DEFINITIONS NB: (In relation to Examination guidelines)

 Normal force, N, as the force or the component of a force which a surface exerts on an
object with which it is in contact with, and which is always perpendicular to the surface.
 Frictional force, f, as the force that opposes the motion of an object and which acts parallel
to the surface.
 Static frictional force, fs, as the force that opposes the tendency of motion of a stationary
object relative to a surface.
 Kinetic frictional force, fk, as the force that opposes the motion of a moving object relative
to a surface.
 Newton's First Law of Motion, a body will remain in its state of rest or motion at constant
velocity unless a non-zero resultant/net force acts on it.
 Newton's Second Law of Motion, when a resultant/net force acts on an object, the object
will accelerate in the direction of the force at an acceleration directly proportional to the force
and inversely proportional to the mass of the object.
 Newton's Third Law of Motion, when object A exerts a force on object B, object B
Simultaneously exerts an oppositely directed force of equal magnitude on object A
 Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation, each body in the universe attracts every other
body with a force that is directly proportional to the product of their masses and inversely
proportional to the square of the distance between their centres.
 Weight, as the gravitational force, in newton (N), exerted on an object.
 Mass, as the amount of matter in a body measured in kilogram (kg).
 Weightlessness, as the sensation experienced when all contact forces are removed i.e.
no external objects touch one's body.

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Newton’s first Law of motion

A body will remain in its state of rest or motion at constant velocity unless a non-zero
resultant/net force acts on it.

Newton’s Second Law of Motion

When a resultant/net force acts on an object, the object will accelerate in the direction of the
force at an acceleration directly proportional to the force and inversely proportional to the
mass of the object.
Mathematically expressed as: Fnet = ma
Where: Fnet - net force, measured in Newton’s(N)
a- acceleration, measured in metres per second squared (m.s-2)
m-mass of the object, measured in kilograms (kg)

A net force acts on an object. Fnet ≠ 0 N Forces acting on the object are not balanced
Net force cause the object to accelerate in the direction of the force. Acceleration and
net force go in the same direction. There is a change in velocity (vi ≠ vf). a ≠ 0 m.s-2

𝒂 𝜶 𝑭𝒏𝒆𝒕 When the net force increases, the acceleration also increases. vice
versa
𝟏
𝒂𝜶 When the mass increases, the acceleration decreases.
𝒎

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FREE BODY DIAGRAMS/FORCE DIAGRAMS VS THE NET FORCE

The learners understanding of how to draw either a force diagram or a free body
diagram indicating forces acting on an object, must go together with an
understanding on how to expressed Fnet in terms of the forces drawn in the diagram.

Plane Diagram Force diagram Free-body Fnet=ma

diagram

Horizontal F N N
F F
f Fnet=ma
f
w F+(-f)=ma
w
(N=w=mg)

Horizontal F N F N F
at an angle
f f Fnet=ma
F//-f=ma
w w
(N=w-𝑭┴ )

F N N
f f Fnet=ma
F
F F//-f=ma
w w
(N=w+𝑭┴ )

Vertical
T T
Fnet=ma
w-T=ma
w w
N F

Inclined N F
F
Fnet=ma
f f F-f-w//=ma
w w
w//=mgSinθ
w┴=mgCosθ
(N=w┴=mgCosθ)

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Newton’s Third Law of Motion

When object A exerts a force on object B, object B simultaneously exerts an oppositely

directed force of equal magnitude on object A.

 The forces are equal in magnitude

 The forces act in the same straight line but in the opposite directions on different
objects

 The forces do not cancel each other, as they act on different objects
For any two objects A and B: FAonB = -FBonA
Example
The force diagram shows the pair of forces when a brick rests on the table

Force of table on brick

Force of brick on table

Newton’s Law of Universal Gravitation

Each body in the universe attracts every other body with a force that is directly
proportional to the product of their masses and inversely proportional to the square of
the distance between their centres.
𝑚1 𝑚2
𝐹=𝐺
𝑟2
Where:
F-force between objects, measured in Newtons(N)
G-Universal Gravitational constant (G = 6.67×10-11 Nm2kg-2)
m1m2-masses of objects in kilograms(kg)
r-distance between the objects in metres(m)

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WORKED EXAMPLES
EXAMPLE 1

A 8 N force pulls horizontally on a block of mass 2 kg. The block slides on a smooth horizontal
surface. The first block is connected by a horizontal weightless inelastic string to a second
block of mass 0,98 kg on the same surface.

8N
0,98kg 2kg

1.1 Draw a free-body diagram for each block. (7)

1.2 Determine the acceleration of the blocks (7)
1.3 Determine the tension in the string. (3)
1.4 The mass of the first block is increased. State whether the tension in the string will
INCREASE, DECREASE OR STAY THE SAME. (1)
[18]
SOLUTIONS:
1.1.

m=0.98kg m=2kg
N 
N

  F 
T T


w w 
(7)
1.2. Fnet=ma Fnet=ma
For 0.98kg block Fnet=(m1+m2) a
T=ma 8 = (0.98+2) a
T=(0.98)a---------(1)  8 = 2.98a
For 2kg block a = 2.68 m.s-2
F-T=ma

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8-T=(2)a-----------(2) 
(1) To (2)
(8-0,98a  = 2a 
a = 2.68 m.s-2  (7)
1.3. m=0,98kg block m = 2kg block
T = ma  Fnet = ma
T = (0,98)(2,68)  F-T = ma
T = 2,63N  8-T = (2) (2,68)
-T = -2,63N
T = 2,63N (3)
1.4. Stays the same.  (1)
EXAMPLE 2

A 5 kg block, resting on a rough horizontal table, is connected to a 12 kg block by a light

inextensible string that passes over a light frictionless pulley. A 5 N force is applied to the 5
kg block at 30° to the horizontal as shown in the diagram below.

2.1. Draw a labelled free-body diagram showing ALL the forces acting on the 5kg. The
coefficient of kinetic friction (μk) between the 5 kg block and the surface is 0,2. Use
Newton’s Laws to calculate the magnitude of the: (5)
2.2. Normal force acting on the 5 kg block. (3)
2.3. Kinetic frictional force acting on the 5 kg block. (3)
2.4. Acceleration of the 5 kg block. (4)
[15]

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SOLUTIONS
2.1.


 N
FA



f T

(5)
w 

2.2. FN + FAY = w
FN + (5×sin300)  = (5)(9,8) 
FN = 46,5 N  (3)
2.3. fk = µN 
fk = 0,2×46,5 
fk = 9,3 N  (3)

2.4. At 5 kg block B: At 12 kg block A

Fnet = ma W + (-T) = ma
T + (-f) + (-FAX) = ma mg – T = 12 × a

T=5×a✓ 12 × 9,8 – T = 12 × a

T = 5a + 9,3 + 5 cos30°✓..(1) T = 117,6 – 12a✓.. (2)

103,96987 = 17a (1) = (2):

117,6 –12a = 5a + 4,9 + 5cos30°
117,6 – (9,3+ 5cos30°)=5a + 12a
a = 6,12 m•s-2 

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EXAMPLE 3

Two blocks, A and B, are placed on an inclined rough surface that makes an angle of 35°
with the horizontal. A force, F, is applied on block A to push the system up the incline. Block
B experiences a frictional force of 15 N.

3.1. State Newton’s Third law of motion in words. (2)

3.2. If the system accelerates at 1,5 m.s-2 up the force exerted by block B on block A. (6)
3.3. Draw a labelled free-body diagram of all the forces acting on block B. (4)
3.4. If block A experiences a frictional force of 4,5 N when the system was accelerating (4)
at 1,5 m.s-2, calculate magnitude of the applied force, F.
[16]
SOLUTIONS
3.1. When object A exerts a force on object B, object B simultaneously exerts an (2)
oppositely directed force of equal magnitude on object A.
3.2. OPTION 1 OPTION 2

 FAonB
N  N
FA 


w//
f  𝑤┴
f
W

Fnet = ma  (4)
3.3. FAonB + fB + w// = ma
FAonB + (-15) + (-25×9.8×0,574) = 25×1,5 

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FAonB – 155,63 = 37,50

FAonB = 193,13 N
FAonB = -FBonA
FBonA = -193,13 N (6)
FBonA = 193,13 N down the slope 
3.4. Fnet = ma 
FNceba + FBonA + fA + w// =ma 
FNceba + (-193,13) + (-4,5) + (-10×9,8×0,574) = 10×1,5 
FNceba – 253,88 = 15
F = 268,88 N  (4)
MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS
1.1 A constant net force, F, is applied to a crate which moves along a frictionless horizontal
surface. Which ONE the following quantities remains constant while force F acts on
the crate?
A The rate of change of velocity
B The change in momentum
C The work done on the crate
D The change in kinetic energy (2)
1.2 A spaceship experiences a weight of X on earth. It is sent into space and lands on a
planet which has a mass twice that of the earth and a radius ½ that of the earth. The
weight of the spaceship will be...
A 8X
B ½X
C X
D ¼X (2)
1.3 A car is moving at a constant speed. Which ONE of the following statements about
the forces acting on the car is CORRECT?
A The net force acting on the car is zero.
B There are no forces acting on the car.
C The weight of the car is equal to the normal force acting on the car.
D There is a non-zero net force acting on the car. (2)

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1.4. A block, being pulled by a force F, and moving to the left on a rough horizontal surface,
is slowing down.

DIRECTION OF DIRECTION OF
RESULTANT FORCE ACCELERATION
A to the right to the left
B to the right to the right
C to the left to the left
D to the left to the right
(2)
ACTIVITIES
1. Two wooden blocks of masses 2 kg and 3 kg respectively are placed on a rough horizontal
surface. They are connected by a string. A constant horizontal force of 10 N is applied to
the second string attached to 3 kg mass as shown in the diagram below. Assume that
both strings are inextensible.

The system moves towards the right with a CONSTANT VELOCITY.

1.1. Define the term kinetic frictional force. (2)
1.2. What is the magnitude of the net force acting on the system? (1)
1.3. Draw a labelled free-body diagram showing ALL the forces acting on the 3 kg block
as it moves towards the right.
(5)
1.4. Calculate the coefficient of kinetic friction between the surface and the two wooden
blocks.
(4)
1.5. The 10N force is increased to 30 N so that the system now accelerates. (5)
Calculate the acceleration of the system. [17]

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2. A block A of mass 5 kg, at rest on a rough horizontal table, is connected to another block
B of mass 10 kg by means of a light inextensible string which passes over a light
frictionless pulley. A force of 120 N is applied vertically upwards on block B as shown in
the diagram below.

The coefficient of kinetic friction between the surface and block A is 0,3. Ignore the effects of
air friction.
2.1. State Newton's Second Law in words (2)
2.2. Draw a labelled free-body diagram of ALL forces acting on block B (3)
2.3 Calculate the magnitude of the:
2.3.1 Friction force acting on block A (3)
2.3.2. Tension force acting on block B (6)
2.4 A man on the surface of planet Y weighs HALF his weight compared to his weight
on the surface of the Earth. The mass of planet Y is TWICE that of the Earth.
2.4.1. State Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation in words (2)
2.4.2. Calculate the radius of planet Y in terms of the radius of the Earth (4)
[20]
3. Two boxes, P and Q, resting on a rough horizontal surface, are connected by a light
inextensible string. The boxes have masses 5 kg and 2 kg respectively. A constant force
F, acting at an angle of 30o to the horizontal, is applied to the 5 kg box, as shown below.
The two boxes now move to the right at a constant speed of 2 m∙s-1.

3.1. State Newton's First Law of Motion in words (2)

3.2. Draw a labeled free-body diagram for box Q (4)

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3.3. Box P experiences a constant frictional force of 5 N and box Q a constant (6)
frictional force of 3 N. Calculate the magnitude of force F.
[12]
4. An 8 kg block, P, is being pulled by constant force F up a rough inclined plane at an angle
of 30o to the horizontal, at CONSTANT SPEED. Force F is parallel to the inclined plane,
as shown in the diagram below.

4.1. Draw a labelled free-body for block P. (4)

4.2. The kinetic frictional force between the block and the surface of the inclined plane
is 20,37N. Calculate the magnitude of force F. (5)
4.3. Force F is now removed and the block ACCELERATES down the plane. The kinetic
(4)
frictional force remains 20, 37N. Calculate the magnitude of the acceleration of the
block. [13]
5. Ball X of mass 3 kg is attached to trolley Y of mass 4 kg by a light string which passes
over a frictionless pulley as shown in the diagram. Initially the trolley is at rest on a slope
AB, which makes an angle of 30o with the horizontal. When the ball is released it falls to
the ground and the trolley moves 2 m up the slope accelerating at 0,43 m .s-2.

5.1. Draw a labelled free body diagram to show ALL the forces acting on the trolley as
it moves up the slope. (4)
5.2. Show that a friction force of 6,79 N acts on the trolley as it moves up the slope (3)
5.3. State Newton’s Second Law of motion in words. (2)
5.4. Calculate the tension T in the string (5)
5.5. Calculate the speed with which the 3 kg ball strikes the ground. (4)

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VERTICAL PROJECTILE MOTION

Definitions and Key Concepts
 A projectile is an object which has been given an initial velocity and then it moves under the
influence of the gravitational force only.
 Free fall is motion in which an object is moving under the influence of gravitational force only
where there is no air resistance.
EQUATIONS OF MOTIONS
𝑣𝑓 = 𝑣𝑖 +𝑎∆𝑡

𝑣𝑓2 =𝑣𝑖2 + 2𝑎∆𝑦

1
∆𝑦 = 𝑣𝑖 ∆𝑡 + 𝑎∆𝑡 2 REMEMBER:
2
1. Draw a sketch diagram
𝑣𝑖 + 𝑣𝑓 2. Write down given variables
∆𝑦 = ( )∆𝑡
2 3. Choose one direction of
motion as positive
4. Solve
Where:

∆𝑦= displacement in meters (m)

∆𝑡 = time in seconds (s)

𝑣𝑖 = initial velocity in meters per seconds (m·s−1)

𝑣𝑓 = final velocity in meters per seconds (m·s−1)

𝑎 = acceleration in meters per seconds squared (m·s−2)

(NB: 𝑎 = 9,8 m·s−2 downwards)

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Describe the motion

 Free falling objects dropped or released objects, has vi = 0 m.s-1 ;depending on the velocity of
the host
OBJECT DROPPED /RELEASED FROM A CERTAIN HEIGHT

𝑣𝑖 = 0 m·s−1

𝑣𝑖 = 𝑚𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑚𝑢𝑚

UP AS POSITIVE

EXAMPLE 1
1. A ball is dropped from a building which is 50 m high as shown in Figure 2.6. Calculate the ball’s
velocity just before it hits the ground. Ignore the effects of air resistance.

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Solution
Given data: 𝑣𝑖 = 0 m∙s-1
a = + 9,8 m∙s-2
∆𝑦 = 50 m
𝑣𝑓 =?

𝑣𝑓2 = 𝑣𝑖2 + 2𝑎∆𝑦

= (02) + 2 (9,8)(50)
= 980
𝑣𝑓 = 31,30 m∙s-1 downward

OBJECT THROUWN VERTICALLY UPWARD AND RETURNS TO THE SAME POSITION

 The object slows down as it

is moving up in the air.
 The final velocity of the
object when it reaches the
throwers hand is the same
in magnitude but opposite
in direction as when it left
the throwers hand.

 The time taken from the

point of projection to
maximum height is equal to
the time taken from the
maximum height back to
the point of projection.
 The object momentarily
stops at the maximum
height; v = 0 m.s-1

EXAMPLE 2:

An object is projected vertically upwards. 4 seconds later, it is caught at the same height (point of
release) on its way downwards. Ignore all effect of friction
2.1 Calculate the velocity with which the object was projected upwards.
2.2 What is the magnitude and direction of the acceleration at the maximum height reached by the
object?

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SOLUTIONS
2.1 𝑣𝑓 = 𝑣𝑖 +𝑎∆𝑡

0 =𝑣𝑖 + (9,8)(2)

𝑣𝑖 = - 19,6

∴ 𝑣𝑖 = 19,6 m∙s-1 upwards

2.2 9,8 m∙s-2 downwards

OBJECT THROWN VERTICALLY UPWARD AND PASSES THE POINT OF PROJECTION

 If the object goes beyond

throwers hand, then 𝑣𝑓 > 𝑣𝑖 .

 If the object goes beyond

throwers hand, time taken as it
moves up is not equal to time
taken as it moves down.

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EXAMPLE 3

A child throws a coin vertically upwards from the window of a high building with an initial velocity
of 15 m.s-1. It strikes the ground travelling at 35 m.s-1. Ignore the effects of air resistance.

3.1 Describe the motion of the coin.

3.2 Calculate the time taken for the coin to reach its maximum height above the ground.
3.3 Calculate the time taken for the coin to reach the ground.
3.4 Calculate the height of the building.
3.5 Calculate the distance that the coin has travelled when it hits the ground.
3.6 The position of the coin relative to the top of the building at 4 s.
SOLUTIONS
3.1 Constant (uniform) acceleration downwards.
3.2 Take up as positive

𝑣𝑓 = 𝑣𝑖 +𝑎∆𝑡

0 = +15 + (-9,8) ∆𝑡

0-15=(-9,8) ∆𝑡

∆𝑡 = 1,53 𝑠

3.3 𝑣𝑓 = 𝑣𝑖 +𝑎∆𝑡

-35=+15 + (-9,8) ∆𝑡

-50=-9,8 ∆𝑡

∆𝑡= 5,10 s

3.4 𝑣𝑓2 =𝑣𝑖2 + 2𝑎∆𝑦

(-352) = (+15) 2+ 2(-9,8)y

1225 = 225 - 19,6y

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y = -51

∴ Height = 51 m
3.5 𝑣𝑓2 =𝑣𝑖2 + 2𝑎∆𝑦

0 = 15 2 + 2(-9,8)y

0 = 225-19,6 y
0 - 225= -19,6 y
y= 11,48 m
∴ distance travelled = 11,48 + 11,48 + 51 = 73,96 m
3.6 Reference point is the top of the building:
1
∆𝑦 = 𝑣𝑖 ∆𝑡 + 𝑎∆𝑡 2
2
1
= (15)(5,10) + (9,8)(5,10)2
2

= 60 - 78,4
∆𝑦= -18,4
∆𝑦= 18,4 m below the top of the building
OBJECT THROWN VERTICALLY UPWARD AND PASSES THE POINT OF PROJECTION AND
BOUNCES
 Bouncing object
changes direction
after the first bounce.

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OBJECT DROPPED FROM A CERTAIN HEIGHT AND BOUNCES

 During the contact B2
At point:
v (m.s-1)
time velocity of an
 B1 ,the ball is in contact with the
object changes in
ground.
magnitude and
direction
A
C  B2 , the bal leaves the ground with a
0 t (s) positive velocity.
 Between B2-C, the ball is moving
upwards, velocities are positive and
B1 decreasing.
 C, the ball has reached its
maximum height after the bounce.

 Due to the change in At point:

velocity of an object, C  Between B-C:
the maximum height
o velocities are positive
reached after the first
bounce is different. (UPWARDS); therefore, the
gradient must be positive.
o Velocities are decreasing;
therefore, the gradient must
decrease.
 C, the ball has reached its
maximum height after the bounce

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 Acceleration remains At point:

B
constant (in magnitude  A , constant negative acceleration
and direction) BEFORE the bounce.
throughout motion of  B , UPWARD acceleration During the
an object. bounce (for 0,1s).
 C , constant negative acceleration
AFTER the bounce.

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EXAMPLE 4

The velocity-time graph below represents the bouncing movement of a 0,1 kg ball. Use the graph to
answer the questions that follow:

4.1 Which direction of movement is positive?

4.2 How many times did the ball bounce?
4.3 What does the gradient of the graph represent?
4.4 Are the collisions between the ball and ground elastic or inelastic?
4.5 If the ball is in contact with the ground for a duration of 0,08 s, determine the impulse on the
ball
4.6 Predict why the ball stopped moving.
4.7 Calculate the time taken for the ball to reach the ground for the first time.
4.8 Hence, without using the equations of motion, calculate the height from which the ball was
initially dropped.
SOLUTIONS
4.1 Downwards
4.2 3 times
4.3 Acceleration of the ball
4.4 After each bounce there is a change is the velocity of the ball, and therefore a change in
kinetic energy. The collisions are inelastic as kinetic energy is not conserved
4.5 𝐹𝑛𝑒𝑡 ∆𝑡 = ∆𝑝
= 𝑚(𝑣𝑓 − 𝑣𝑖 )

= (0,1)(−8 − 10)

= −1,80

∴ Impulse = 1,80 N⋅s upwards

4.6 It stops on the apex, ∴ it was most likely caught.

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4.7 𝑣𝑓 = 𝑣𝑖 +𝑎∆𝑡

10 = 0 +(9,8) ∆𝑡
∆𝑡 = 1,02 𝑠
∴time taken= 1.02s
4.8 1
𝐴𝑟𝑒𝑎 = 𝑏×ℎ
2
1
= (1,02)(10)
2
= 5,1

∴ height = 5,1 m above the ground

IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER
 At the starting point its displacement is ZERO, ∆y = 0 m.
o All displacements for upward motion or downward motion stay positive above starting
point.
o The magnitude of upward displacement from starting position to its highest point is equal
to the magnitude of downward displacement from the height point back to the starting
point.
 At all times the object accelerates downwards due to the force of gravity.
 At any point during the journey the acceleration of the object is equal to the gravitational
acceleration, g.
o a = 9,8 m.s-2 downwards. The velocity of the object changes by 9.8m.s -2 in one second
throughout the motion.
o g is independent of the mass of the object.
o g is dependent upon the distance from the centre of the earth.

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ACTIVITIES: VERTICAL PROJECTILE MOTION

QUESTION 1
USE THE INFORMATION BELOW TO ANSWER QUESTION 1.1 AND QUESTION 1.2

An object is thrown upwards with a velocity of 5 m.s-1

1.1 Which ONE of the following gives the magnitude of the velocity of the object at its
maximum height?
A 0
B 5
C 4,9
D 9,8 (2)
1.2 The height reached by the object when its velocity is 2 m.s-1 can be determined in ONE
single step. The equation below that can be used to find this is ….
A 𝑣𝑓 = 𝑣𝑖 +𝑎∆𝑡

B 𝑣𝑓2 =𝑣𝑖2 + 2𝑎∆𝑦

C 1
∆𝑦 = 𝑣𝑖 ∆𝑡 + 𝑎∆𝑡 2
2
D 𝑉𝑓 + 𝑉𝑖
∆𝑦 = ( ) ∆𝑡
2
(2)
1.3 The velocity versus time graph below represents the movement of an object under the
influence of gravitational force.

3t
0
t

-2v

The displacement of the object in time 3t is …

A vt. C -vt.

B Zero. D 3
 v t.
2

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1.5 An object is free falling towards the surface of the earth.

Which ONE of the following best describes the direction of acceleration of the object?

A The acceleration is 9,8 m.s-2 downward.

B The acceleration is 9,8 m.s-2 upward.
C The acceleration is less than 9,8 m.s-2 downward.
D The acceleration is less than 9,8 m․s-2 upward. (2)
QUESTION 2
Lerato throws a stone vertically into the air from the top of a cliff. The stone strikes the ground
below after 3 s. The velocity vs. time graph below shows the motion of the stone. Ignore the
effect of air resistance.

2.1 How long does the stone take to fall from the height of the cliff to the ground below? (2)
2.2 What is the maximum height that the stone reaches above the ground? (Hint: calculate
the height the stone reaches above the cliff, then calculate the height of the cliff, and add
these two numbers). (4)
2.3 Draw a graph of position versus time. Use upwards as negative. (6)

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QUESTION 3

A ball of mass 0,5 kg is projected vertically downwards towards the ground from a height of 1,8 m
at a velocity of 2 m.s-1 The position-time graph for the motion of the ball is shown below.

3.1 What is the maximum vertical height reached by the ball after the second bounce? (1)
3.2 Calculate the magnitude of the time t1 indicated on the graph. (5)

3.3 Velocity with which the ball rebounds from the ground during the first bounce. (4)
The ball is in contact with the ground for 0,2 s during the first bounce.
3.4 Calculate the magnitude of the force exerted by the ground on the ball during the first
bounce if the ball strikes the ground at 6,27 m∙s-1. (4)
3.5 Draw a velocity-time graph for the motion of the ball from the time that it is projected to the
time when it rebounds to a height of 0,9 m.
Clearly show the following on your graph:

 The time when the ball hits the ground

 The velocity of the ball when it hits the ground

 The velocity of the ball when it rebounds from the ground (7)

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QUESTION 4
A helicopter is rising vertically at constant velocity. When the helicopter is at a height of 100 m
above the ground, a girl accidentally drops her camera out of the window of the helicopter.The
velocity-time graph below represents the motion of the camera from the moment it is released
from the helicopter until it strikes the ground. Ignore air-Resistance.

6
v (m.s-1)

4.1 What is the value of the slope (gradient) of the graph? (2)
4.2 Use the gradient to calculate the time a on the time axis (5)
4.3 Which point on the path of the camera corresponds to time a? (1)
4.4 Use an equation of motion to calculate the magnitude of the velocity of the camera
as it reaches the ground at 4 s. (4)
4.5 Use the graph to calculate the maximum height reached by the camera. (5)
4.6 Draw a rough displacement-time graph and an acceleration-time graph to represent
the motion of the camera from the moment it was released until it hit the ground.Time
values must be shown but y-axis values need not be shown. (8)

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QUESTION 5
5.1 A hot-air balloon is rising upwards at a constant velocity of 5 m·s-1. When the balloon is
100 m above the ground, a sandbag is thrown upward from it at 15m.s-1. Ignore air resistance.

What is the acceleration of:

5.1.1 The hot-air balloon while the sandbag is in it? (1)
5.1.2 The sandbag the moment it is thrown from the hot-air balloon? (2)
5.2 Determine the maximum height P, above the ground, reached by the sandbag after it is
thrown from the hot-air balloon. (3)
5.3 Calculate the time taken for the sandbag to reach this maximum height after it has been
released. (3)
5.4 Calculate the total time taken for the sandbag to reach the ground after it has been released. (4)
5.5 Will the velocity of the hot-air balloon INCREASE, DECREASE or REMAIN THE SAME
immediately after the sandbag has been released? Explain fully.
(4)
5.6 Draw the position time graph for the motion of the sandbag from the moment it was thrown
to the time it
Was got to the ground. Take height it was thrown as reference.
Show the following on the graph:

 Time taken to reach maximum height

 Time taken to return to the ground

 Maximum height reached (5)

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QUESTION 6

The velocity-time sketch graph for a ball of mass 160 g, thrown vertically upwards with a velocity
of 6 m⋅s-1 from a certain height above the ground ,is shown below.

On the way down the ball crashes through a thin horizontal glass pane and then continues
downward, eventually bouncing on the ground.
Ignore all effects of air friction and assume none of the broken pieces of glass sticks to the ball.

6.1 Write down the magnitude and direction of the acceleration of the ball when it reaches
position B as indicated on the graph. (2)
6.2 How many times did the ball bounce on the ground? (1)
6.3 According to the graph, which direction, DOWNWARDS or UPWARDS is taken as the
positive direction? (1)
6.4 Calculate the distance between the pane of glass and the initial position from which the ball
was thrown. (4)
6.5 Draw a rough position-time graph for the motion of the ball. Show the points A to E on the
graph. Do not show any displacement or time values on the graph.
(5)
Take the initial position of the ball as zero.
QUESTION 7

Ball B is projected vertically upwards at a velocity of 30 m.s-1 from the ground. Ignore the effects
of air friction. Use the ground as ZERO POSITION.
7.1 Calculate the time taken by the ball B to return to the ground. (5)
7.2 Sketch a velocity-time graph for ball B.
Show the following on the graph:

 Initial velocity of ball B.

 Time taken to reach the highest point of the motion.

 Time taken to return to the ground.

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One second after ball B is projected upwards, a second ball, A, is thrown vertically downwards at
a velocity of 12m.s-1 from a balcony 80m above the ground. Refer to the diagram below.

12ms-1

80 m

30 m.s-1

7.3 Calculate how high above the ground ball B will be the instant the two balls pass each other (6)
QUESTION 8

A ball, X, is thrown vertically downwards, with an initial speed of 2,5 m.s-1, from a point P located
above the ground. At the same instant a second identical ball, Y, is dropped from a point Q which
is located 4,9 m below point P.

Both balls hit the ground at the same time.

In answering the following questions ignore the effects of air friction. Take downward motion as
positive.
8.1 Once in motion both balls are said to be in free fall. Give a reason to support this statement. (1)

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8.2 Calculate the time taken by ball Y to hit the ground. (5)
8.3 Calculate the velocity with which ball, X, strikes the ground. (4)
8.4 Use the answer obtained in question 2.3 to calculate the height of point Q above the ground. (4)
8.5 Will ball Y strike the ground with a velocity GREATER THAN, LESS THAN or EQUAL TO, (1)
the velocity with which ball X strikes the ground?
8.6 On the same system of axes, sketch the relevant velocity-time graph for the entire motion of
both balls X and Y. Indicate on your graph the corresponding velocity and time values. Label
(4)
your graphs.

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VERTICAL PROJECTILE MOTION: SOLUTIONS

QUESTION 1

1.1. A

1.2. B

1.3. C

1.4. A

1.5. A

QUESTION 2

2.1. 3 – 2,04 = 0,96s (2)

2.2. Option 1

(4)

Option 2

(4)
Option 3

(4)

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2.3.

QUESTION 3

3.1. 0.5m (1)

3.2. Upwards positive
2 2
vf = vi + 2aΔy

2 2
vf = (-2) + 2(-9,8)(-1,8)

-1
vf = -6,27 m∙s 

vf = vi +aΔt

-6,27 = -2 + (-9,8)Δt 

Δt = 0,44 s  (5)
3.3. Upwards positive
2 2
vf = vi + 2aΔy 
2 2
0 = vi + 2(-9,8)(0,9) 
-1
vi = 4,2 m∙s  upwards (4)
3.4. FnetΔt = mΔv 
Fnet (0,2) = (0,5)[(4,2 – (-6,27)] 
Fnet = 26,175 N (4)

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3.5. Upwards positive

Criteria for graph Marks
First part of the graph
starts at v = 2 m∙s–1 at t =
0 s and extends until v =
6,27 m∙s–1 at t = 0,44 s 
Graph is discontinuous
and object changes
direction at 0,64 s. 
Second part of graph
starts at v = 4,2 m∙s–1 at t
= 0,64 s until v = 0 m∙s–1

QUESTION 4
4.1. 9.8 m·s-2 down (2)
4.2. g = gradient = change in velocity /change in time

Therefore a = 0,61 s (5)

4.3. At the point of maximum height reached where v = 0 i.e. point at the top of the motion. (1)
4.4.
vf = vi + aΔt2 

= 0 + (-9,8)(4) 

= 33,20 m·s-1 down (4)

4.5.
x = area under graph

= ½ b h = ½ (0,61)(6)

= 1,8 m 

Maximum height reached = 100 + 1,8 = 101,8 m

4.6.

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QUESTION 5
5.1.
5.1.1. Zero (1)
5.1.2. 9.8 m.s-2 downwards (2)
5.2. 𝑣𝑓 2 = 𝑣𝑖 2 + 2𝑎∆𝑦
(0)2 = (20)2 + 2(−9.8)(∆𝑦)
∆𝑦 = 20.41𝑚 + 100𝑚 = 120.41𝑚.  (3)
5.3. 𝑣𝑓 = 𝑣𝑖 + 𝑎∆𝑡
0 = 20 + (−9.8)∆𝑡
∆𝑡 = 2.41𝑠 (3)
5.4. 1
∆𝑦 = 𝑣𝑖 ∆𝑡 + 𝑎∆𝑡 2 
2
1
−120.41 = (0)∆𝑡 + (−9.8)∆𝑡 2 
2
∆𝑡 = 4.96𝑠
∆𝑡𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 = 4.96 + 2.41 = 7.37𝑠 (4)
5.5. Increase, according to Newton’s law, the net force is inversely proportional to the
mass of an object, so since there is a decrease in mass, the acceleration will
increase.
(4)
Position vs time graph

(5)
QUESTION 6
6.1. 9,8 m⋅s-2  downward/to the centre of the earth  (2)
6.2. Once/one time (1)
6.3. Upward (1)
6.4. Upward positive:
𝑣𝑓 2 = 𝑣𝑖 2 + 2𝑎∆𝑦√
(−3.2)2  = (6)2 + 2(−9.8)(∆𝑦)√
y = 1.31m (5)

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6.5. Upward positive

QUESTION 7
7.1. 𝑣𝑓 = 𝑣𝑖 + 𝑎∆𝑡
0 = 30 + (−9.8)∆𝑡
∆𝑡 = 3.06𝑠
∆𝑡𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 = 3.06 × 2 = 6.12𝑠 (5)
7.2. Velocity vs time graph

(3)
7.3. Ball A
1
∆𝑦 = 𝑣𝑖 ∆𝑡 + 𝑔∆𝑡 2 
2
1
∆𝑦 = −12∆𝑡 + (−9.8)∆𝑡 2 
2
∆𝑦 = −12∆𝑡 − 4.9∆𝑡 2 … … … … … … … … … 𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 1.

Ball B
1
80 − ∆𝑦 = 𝑣𝑖 (∆𝑡 + 1) + 𝑔(∆𝑡 + 1)2 
2
80 − ∆𝑦 = (30)(∆𝑡 + 1) + (0.5)(−9.8)(∆𝑡 + 1)2
∆𝑦 = −20.2∆𝑡 − 25.1 + 4.9∆𝑡 2 … … … … … … … 𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 2.

Note: Equate equation 1 and equation 2.

−20.2∆𝑡 − 25.1 + 4.9∆𝑡 2 = −12∆𝑡 − 4.9∆𝑡 2 

9.8∆𝑡 2 − 8.2∆𝑡 − 25.1 = 0
−𝑏 ± √𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐
∆𝑡 =
2𝑎
−(−8.2) ± √(−8.2)2 − 4(9.8)(−25.1)
∆𝑡 =
2(9.8)
∆𝑡 = 2.07𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑒 ∆𝑦 = −4.9(2.07)2 − 12(2.07) = −45.84𝑚. (6)

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QUESTION 8
8.1 Only the force of gravity acts on the balls.  (1)
8.2 X: Δy = viΔt + ½aΔt2
= (2,5) Δt  + ½(9,8) Δt2
Y: Δy = viΔt + ½aΔt2
= 0 + ½(9,8) Δt2

Y must be increased by 4,9 m to equal X

(2,5) Δt + ½(9,8) Δt2 = 4,9 + ½(9,8) Δt2
Δt = 1,96 s (5)
8.3 vf = vi + aΔt
= 2,5  + (9,8)(1,96) 
= 21,71
vf = 21,71 m.s-1downwards 
(4)
8.4 X: v 2f = v i2 + 2ay
21,712 = 2,52 + 2(9,8)( y) 
y = 23,73 m
Height Q = 23,73 - 4,9 = 18,83 m  (4)
8.5 less than (1)
8.6

Label both axes

Both parallel lines
Y starts on (0,0) 
X (0, -2,5) and (1,96, -21,71) 
(4)

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MOMENTUM AND IMPULSE

MOMENTUM

 Is the product of mass and velocity

 Is a vector quantity
 Any object that is moving has momentum
 The symbol is p
 Unit of measurement is kg.m.s-1
 Can be calculated using : p = mv
Where: p - momentum in kg.m.s-1
M -mass in kg
v - velocity in m.s-1

Linear momentum is a vector quantity with the same direction as the velocity of the object
Class activity
1. A dancer of mass 50kg leaps into the air and lands feet first on the ground with a velocity
of 3 m.s-1 . Calculate the momentum of which the dancer reaches the ground.

2. Clay with a mass of 0,06 kg, is dropped straight down and hit the roof of a car with a
velocity of 15 m.s-1 . Calculate the momentum of the clay.

3. A skater with a mass of 54kg moves with a velocity of 3 m.s-1 . What is its momentum?

VECTOR NATURE OF MOMENTUM

Momentum is a vector quantity and has both magnitude and direction. It is therefore
important to always include direction in all momentum calculations.
EXAMPLE 1:
A golf ball of mass 0,02 kg leaves a golf club at a velocity of 100 m·s-1 in an easterly
direction. Calculate the momentum of the golf ball.
SOLUTION:
p = mv
= (0, 02) (100)
= 2,00 kg.m.s−1 east
EXAMPLE 2:
A toy car of mass 150 g has a momentum of 0,45 kg· m·s-1 left. Calculate the
velocity of the toy car.
SOLUTION:

P = mv

0,45 = (0, 015) (v)

V = 3,00 m.s−1 to the left

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CHANGE IN MOMENTUM
When a moving object comes into contact with another object (moving or stationary) it results
in a change in velocity for both objects and therefore a change in momentum (p) for each one.
The change in momentum can be calculated by using:

Δp = pf − pi

Δp = change in momentum (kg.m.s−1)

Δpf = final momentum (kg.m.s−1)

Δpi = initial momentum (kg.m.s−1)

Due to the vector nature of momentum, it is very important to choose a positive direction.

EXAMPLE 1:

A 1000 kg car initially moving at a constant velocity of 16 m·s-1 in an easterly direction

approaches a stop street, starts breaking and comes to a complete standstill. Calculate the
change in the car’s momentum.

SOLUTION:

Choosing east as positive:

Δp = pf − pi

Δp = mvf − mvi

Δp = (1000)(0) − (1000)(16)

Δp = −1600

∴ Δp = 1 600 kg.m.s−1 west

EXAMPLE 2:
A cricket ball with a mass of 0,2 kg approaches a cricket bat at a velocity of 40 m·s-1 east and
leaves the cricket bat at a velocity of 50 m·s-1 west.
1. Calculate the change in the ball’s momentum during its contact with the cricket bat.
2. Draw a vector diagram showing the change in momentum of the cricket ball.

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SOLUTION:

Choosing east as positive:

1. Δp = pf − pi Δp = mvf − mvi
Δp = (0,2) (−50) − (0,2) (40)
Δp = −18
∴ Δp = 18 kg ⋅ m ⋅ s−1 west
pi
Δp

2.
pf
NEWTON’S SECOND LAW OF MOTION
Newton’s second law in terms of momentum: The net force acting on an object is equal
to the rate of change of momentum.

According to Newton’s Second Law, a resultant force applied to an object will cause the object
to accelerate. When the net force on an object changes, so does its velocity and hence the
momentum.

Fnet = resultant force (N)

Δp = change in momentum (kg ⋅ m ⋅ s−1)

Δt = time (s)

IMPULSE

Impulse: the product of the net force and the contact time.

By rearranging Newton’s second law in terms of momentum, we find that impulse is equal to
the change in momentum of an object according to the impulse-momentum theorem:

Impulse = FΔt
Impulse = Δp mΔv
= Δp

Impulse, FΔt , is measured in N·s.

Δp is measured in kg·m·s−1

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The change in momentum is directly dependent on the magnitude of the resultant force and
the duration for which the force is applied. Impulse is a vector, therefore must have direction.

EXAMPLE 1:

A golf ball with a mass of 0,1 kg is driven from the tee. The golf ball experiences a force of
1000 N while in contact with the golf club and moves away from the golf club at 30 m·s -1. For
how long was the golf club in contact with the ball?

SOLUTION:

FnetΔt = mΔv

1000t = (0,1) (30 − 0)

t = 3 × 10−3 s

EXAMPLE 2:

Why can airbags be useful during a collision? State your answer by using the impulse-
momentum theorem.

SOLUTION:

From the impulse-momentum theorem (FnetΔt = mΔv):

an airbag increases contact time (t) during the accident, thereby decreasing the force (Fnet)
to be exerted on the passenger, because according the resultant force experienced is
inversely proportional to the contact time (Fnet α1/t).

NB: the explanation applies to seatbelts, arrestor beds and crumble zones.

EXAMPLE 3:

Initially a girl on a roller skate is at rest on a smooth horizontal pavement. The girl throws the
parcel of mass 8 kg, horizontally to the right at a speed of 4 m·s −1. Immediately after the
parcel has been thrown, the girl-roller skate combination moves at a speed of 0.6 m·s−1.

Calculate the impulse of the parcel

2. Without any further calculations, write down the change in momentum experienced by
the girl while the parcel is being thrown.

SOLUTION:

Choose right as positive

FnetΔt = mvf − mvi FnetΔt = 8(4) – 8(0)

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FnetΔt = 32. 00 N.s

Impulse = 32.00 N.s to the right

32 kg·m·s−1 to the left.

COLLISIONS
●Objects move off/ stick together/ combine
When objects collide and move off together, their masses can be added as one
object.
Objects that are stationary (B) have an initial velocity of zero.
Σpbefore = Σpafter
mAviA + mBviB = (mA + mB)vf
●Objects Collide and rebounds
Objects can collide and move off separately
Σpbefore = Σpafter
mAviA + mBviB = mAvfA + mBvfB
NB: The velocity and momentum are vectors (i.e. direction specific). Velocity
substitution must take direction into account.

●Object dropped vertically on a moving object

Example: A stuntman jumps off a bridge and lands on a truck.
Linear momentum= momentum along one axis.
A dropped object has a horizontal velocity of zero, viB= 0 m•s-1
Σpbefore = Σpafter
mAviA + mBviB = (mA + mB)vf

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NEWTON’S THIRD LAW AND MOMENTUM

During a collision, the objects involved will exert forces on each other. Therefore,
according to Newton’s third law, if object A exerts a force on object B, object B will
exert a force on object A where the two forces are equal in magnitude, but opposite
in direction.
The magnitude of the force, the contact time and therefore the impulse on both
objects are equal in magnitude.
Forces are applied between objects during:
Collisions: Move off together, collide and deflect, object dropped vertically on moving
object.
Explosions: Explosions, springs, firearms

EXPLOSIONS
●Explosions
Objects that experience the same explosion will experience the same force.
The acceleration, velocity and momentum of the object is dependent on the mass.
Objects that are stationary (A+B) have an initial velocity of zero.
Σpbefore = Σpafter
(mA + mB)vi = mAvfA + mBvfB
●Springs
The spring will exert the same force on both objects (Newton’s Third Law).
The acceleration, velocity and momentum of the object is dependent on the mass.
Objects that are stationary (A+B) have a velocity of zero.
Σpbefore = Σpafter
(mA + mB)vi = mAvfA + mBvf
●Firearms/ cannons
The gun and bullet will experience the same force.
The acceleration of the weapon is significantly less than the bullet due to mass
difference.
Recoil can be reduced by increasing the mass of the weapon.

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MOMENTUM AND ENERGY

ELASTIC VS INELASTIC COLLISIONS
Elastic collision: a collision in which both momentum and kinetic energy are conserved.
Inelastic collision: a collision in which only momentum is conserved. Kinetic energy is
not conserved i.e. the total kinetic energy before collision or explosion is not equal to
the total kinetic energy after collision.
In an isolated system, MOMENTUM WILL ALWAYS BE CONSERVED. To prove that
a collision is elastic, we only have to prove that kinetic energy is conserved.
Kinetic energy can be calculated using the mass and velocity of an object:
EK = ½mv2
EK = kinetic energy (J) m = mass (kg) v = velocity (m.s−1)
Elastic collision: Ek(before) = Ek(after)
Inelastic collision: Ek(before) ≠ Ek(after)
(SOME ENERGY IS LOST AS SOUND OR HEAT)

APPLICATION OF IMPULSE IN REAL LIFE SITUATIONS

 Airbags/Seatbelts
- Save thousands of lives
- They increase the time of contact
- According to Fnet = ∆p/ ∆t , if time of contact increases the net force will decrease and
that will reduce injury
 Arrestor beds
Two design features:
1. The surface must have sufficient friction
2. The surface must be long enough for the truck to stop
They decrease a truck’s momentum to zero over a fairly long time interval and the
force exerted on the truck is small enough not to harm the truck driver.
ACTIVITY
1. A toy train, mass 0,5 kg is moving along a toy track to the right with a speed of
2 m.s-1. It collides with another stationary train that also has a mass of 0,5 kg.
As a result of the collision, the first train remains stationary.
1.1 Use the principle of conservation of momentum to find the velocity of the second
train after the collision.
1.2 Calculate the total kinetic energy before and after the collision. How do they
compare with each other?

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2. A bullet of mass 50g is fired horizontally into a stationary wooden block of mass
8kg lying on a rough horizontal surface. The bullet strikes the wooden block
at a velocity of 196 m.s-1. The impact causes the block–bullet system to slide a
distance of 40cm from its original position before coming to rest. Assume the
block experiences a constant frictional force.
2.1 Name and state the law in words that can be used to calculate the velocity of
the block–bullet system immediately after impact. (3)
2.2 Calculate the magnitude of the velocity of the block–bullet system immediately
after the impact. (5)
2.3 Draw a labeled sketch to illustrate all the forces acting on the block-bullet
system while it is moving. (3)
2.4 Is the collision elastic? Show by a calculation to prove your answer.
2.5 Assume that block-bullet system experiences a constant acceleration of
–1,86 mּs-2 while it is moving. Calculate the co-efficient of kinetic friction (μk)
between the wooden block and the surface.
3. The most common reasons for rear-end collisions are too short a following
distance, speeding and failing brakes. Car A of mass 1 000 kg, stationary at a
traffic light, is hit from behind by Car B of mass 1 200 kg, travelling at 18 m·s-1.
Immediately after the collision Car A moves forward at 12 m·s-1.
3.1 Calculate the speed of car B immediately after collision.
3.2 Show by a calculation that this collision is inelastic.

STRUCTURED PROBLEMS

QUESTION 1
Dancers have to learn many skills, including how to land correctly. A dancer of mass
50 kg leaps into the air and lands feet first on the ground. She lands on the ground
with a velocity of 5 m∙s-1. As she lands, she bends her knees and comes to a complete
stop in 0,2 seconds.
1.1 Calculate the momentum with which the dancer reaches the ground. (3)
1.2 Define the term impulse (2)
1.3 Calculate the magnitude of the net force acting on the dancer as she lands. (3)
Assume that the dancer performs the same jump as before but lands without bending
her knees.
1.4 Will the force now be GREATER THAN, SMALLER THAN or EQUAL TO the
force calculated in QUESTION 1.3? (1)
1.5 Give a reason for the answer to QUESTION 1.4. (3)
[12]
QUESTION 2
A cricket ball of mass 450 g is bowled towards a batsman at a speed of 37,5 m.s -1.
The batsman misses the ball and the wicket keeper catches the ball.
2.1 Calculate the average force exerted by the wicket keeper on the ball, if he
stops the ball in 0,5 s. (5)
p
2.2 Use the equation Fnet  to explain why the wicket keeper should pull his
t
hands back when catching a fast moving cricket ball. (3)

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QUESTION 3
The pictures below show a girl of mass 45 kg and boy of mass 65 kg, bouncing off
separate, identical trampolines at a fun fair.

The graphs below show how the forces exerted by the trampolines on the children vary
with time during one bounce. Graph A represents the force exerted on the girl by the
trampoline and Graph B represents the force exerted on the boy by the trampoline.

3.1 Define IMPULSE. (2)

3.2 Show with the aid of relevant calculations that the impulse of the boy is equal in
magnitude to the impulse of the girl. (5)
3.3 If the boy and girl jumped onto their trampolines from the same height,
Which ONE of the two will rebound with a greater speed? (1)

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QUESTION 4
The graph below shows how the momentum of car A changes with time just before
and just after a head-on collision with car B.

Car A has a mass of 1 500 kg, while the mass of car B is 900 kg.
-1
Car B was travelling at a constant velocity of 15 m∙s west before the collision.
Take east as positive and consider the system as isolated.

4.1 What do you understand by the term isolated system as used in physics? (1)
Use the information in the graph to answer the following questions.
4.2 Calculate the:
4.2.1 Magnitude of the velocity of car A just before the collision (3)
4.2.2 Velocity of car B just after the collision (5)
4.2.3 Magnitude of the net average force acting on car A during the collision (4)
QUESTION 5

Collisions happen on the roads in our country daily. In one of these collisions, a car of
mass 1600 kg, travelling at a speed of 30m.s-1 to the left, collides head-on with a
minibus of mass 3000 kg, travelling at 20m.s-1 to the right. The two vehicles move
together as a unit in a straight line after the collision.

5.1 Calculate the velocity of the two vehicles after the collision. (6)

5.2 Do the necessary calculations to show that the collision was inelastic. (6)

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5.3 The billboard below advertises a car from a certain manufacturer.

Use your knowledge of momentum and impulse to justify how the safety features
mentioned in the advertisement contribute to the safety of passengers. (3)

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QUESTION 6
In the sketch below car A of mass 1250 kg is travelling at 14 m.s -1. At the same time
car B of mass 800 kg is travelling in the same direction as car A but in front of car A
at 9 m.s-1.

Car A collides with car B. Immediately after the collision car A continues to move in
its original direction at 12 m.s-1.

6.1 Assume that the linear momentum is conserved during this collision and calculate the
speed of car B immediately after the collision. (4)
6.2 Explain why the assumption made in question 3.1 may not be valid if
both cars A and B are designed to crumple partially on impact. (2)
6.3 Consider the following statement: “The risk of injury for passengers in a lighter
car is greater than the risk of injury for passengers in a heavier car during a head-on
collision”. Use principles of Physics to explain the validity of this statement. (4)

QUESTION 7
A bullet of mass 20 g is fired from a stationary rifle of mass 3 kg. Assume that the bullet
moves horizontally. Immediately after firing, the rifle recoils (moves back) with a
velocity of 1,4 m∙s-1.
7.1 Calculate the speed at which the bullet leaves the rifle. (4)
The bullet strikes a stationary 5 kg wooden block fixed to a flat, horizontal table. The
bullet is brought to rest after travelling for 0,04s into the block. Refer to the diagram
below.

7.2 Calculate the magnitude of the average force exerted by the block on the bullet (5)
7.3 How does the magnitude of the force calculated in QUESTION 7.2 compare to
the magnitude of the force exerted by the bullet on the `block? Write down only
LARGER THAN, SMALLER THAN or THE SAME. (1)

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QUESTION 8
The diagram below shows two trolleys, P and Q, held together by means of a
compressed spring on a flat, frictionless horizontal track. The masses of P and Q are
400 g and 600 g respectively.

When the trolleys are released, it takes 0,3 s for the spring to unwind to its natural
length. Trolley Q then moves to the right at 4 m∙s-1.
8.1 State the principle of conservation of linear momentum in words. (2)
8.2 Calculate the:
8.2.1 Velocity of trolley P after the trolleys are released (4)
8.2.2 Magnitude of the average force exerted by the spring on trolley Q (4)
8.3 Is this an elastic collision? Only answer YES or NO. (1)

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WORK, ENERGY AND POWER

Key Concepts:

 What is Work?
 Work done on an object by a constant force
 Work done on an object by conservative forces
 Work done on an object by non-conservative forces
 Work-energy theorem
 Conservation of Mechanical Energy
 Power

Prerequisites:
Some familiarity with the following concepts would be helpful in understanding the
information in this topic

 Vectors
 Different kinds of forces
 Drawing free-body diagram
 Newton’s Laws of Motion
 Energy and Conservation of Mechanical Energy
 Momentum and conservation of momentum

EXAM GUIDELINES

 Define the work done on an object by a constant force as the product of the
force and the displacement.
 Give examples of when an applied force does and does not do work on an
object.
 Calculate the work done by an object when a force F applied at angle 𝜃 to the
direction of motion causes the object to move a distance, using

𝑾 = 𝐹 ∙ ∆𝑥 ∙ cos(𝜃)

Know that an object with larger potential energy has a greater capacity to do work.

 Positive net work done on system will increase energy of the system
 Negative net work done on system will decrease energy of the system
 State the Work-energy theorem: The net/total work done on an object is equal
to the change in the object's kinetic energy OR the work done on an object by a
resultant/net force is equal to the change in the object's kinetic energy.
 Solve problems using the work energy theorem, i.e. the work done on an object
by a net force is equal to the change in the object’s kinetic energy, using:
𝑊𝑛𝑒𝑡 = ∆𝐸𝑘 = 𝐸𝑘𝑓 − 𝐸𝑘𝑖

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 Define Conservative forces as a force for which work done in moving an object
between two points is independent of the path taken e.g. gravitational force,
elastic force and electrostatic force).
 Non-conservative forces as a force for which work done in moving object
between two points depends on the path taken.
e.g. air resistance, friction, tension, applied forces)

Know that when:

 Only conservative forces are present, mechanical energy is conserved

 Non conservative forces are present, mechanical energy (sum of kinetic and
potential) is not conserved, but total energy (of the system) is still conserved.
 State the Principle of Conservation of mechanical energy: the total
mechanical energy in an isolated system remains constant.
Note: a system is isolated when net external force acting on the system is zero.
 Solve conservation of energy problems using the equation:

𝑊𝑛𝑐 = ∆𝐸𝑘 + ∆𝐸𝑝

 Define power as the rate at which work is done.

𝑊
In symbols : P =
Δ𝑡
Calculate:
 Power involved when work is done
 Minimum power required of an electric motor to pump water from a borehole of
a depth at a particular rate using :
W nc = ∆Ek + ∆Ep
 Average power, Pav = Fvav

STRATEGY FOR SOVING PROBLEMS USING THE WORK-ENERGY THEOREM

Wnet

Fnet ∆x cos θ ∆Ek W1 + W2 + W3 + …..

1. Draw a force or free body diagram showing all forces acting on the object.
2. Write down the equation: W net = ∆Ek
3. If the equation in 2 cannot solve the problem, write the following:
Fnet ∆x cos θ = ∆Ek
4. If the equation in 3 cannot solve the problem, write the following:

W 1 + W 2 + … = ∆ Ek

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To use equations in 3 or 4 you will need the following information:

5. Find the resultant force (Fnet) acting on the object. Use a free body diagram to
help you. OR identify the individual forces for which Fnet is the SUM.
6. Find the angle θ between Fnet (OR each force acting on the object) and ∆x. It
can ONLY be 00 OR 1800

Note: When …

θ = 00: F and ∆x have the same direction. F does positive work

θ is between 00 and 900, F does positive work

θ = 900 or 2700: F is perpendicular to ∆x. F does no work on the object.

θ is between 900 and 2700, F does negative work.

θ = 1800: F and ∆x have opposite directions. F does negative work

7. If an object moves at a constant velocity,

Wnet = 0, ∆Ek = 0, Fnet = 0, a = 0

NB. Find the Sum of All the Work Done on the object and equate them to zero and
then find the unknown. Always check your answer for correctness.

8. If you are not restricted to use the Work-Energy Theorem, then in addition to
the above formulae, apply the relevant formula from the list below to solve the
problem:
 vf2 =vi2+ 2a∆x (When acceleration is uniform)
 0 = ∆U + ∆K (When mechanical energy is conserved)
 (U + K)top = (U + K)bottom (When mechanical energy is conserved)
 Wnc = ∆U + ∆K (When mechanical energy is not conserved i.e. when non-
conservative forces act on the object)

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WORKED EXAMPLES
WORKED EXAMPLE 1
1.1 The diagram below shows a track, ABC. The curved section, AB, is frictionless.
The rough horizontal section, BC, is 8 m long.

An object of mass 10 kg is released from point A which is 4 m above the

ground. It slides down the track and comes to rest at point C.
1.1.1 State the principle of conservation of mechanical energy in words. (2)
1.1.2 Is mechanical energy conserved as the object slides from A to C? (1)
Write only YES or NO.
1.1.3 Using ENERGY PRINCIPLES only, calculate the magnitude of the (6)
frictional force exerted on the object as it moves along BC.
1.2 A motor pulls a crate of mass 300 kg with a constant force by means of a light
inextensible rope running over a light frictionless pulley as shown below. The
coefficient of kinetic friction between the crate and the surface of the inclined
plane is 0,19.

1.2.1 Calculate the magnitude of the frictional force acting between the crate (3)
and the surface of the inclined plane.
The crate moves up the incline at a constant speed of 0,5 m∙s -1.
1.2.2 Calculate the average power delivered by the motor while pulling the (6)
crate up the incline.
[18]

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SOLUTION
1.1.1 In an isolated/closed system, the total mechanical energy is conserved (2)
1.1.2 No (1)
1.1.3 (Ep + Ek)A = (Ep + Ek)B
(mgh + ½ mv2)A= (mgh + ½ mv2)B
(10)(9,8)(4) + 0 = 0 + ½ (10) vf2
vf = 8,85 m∙s-1
Wnet = ∆K
f∆x cosθ = ∆K
f(8)cos 180o = ½ (10)(0 – 8,852)
f = 48,95 N (6)
1.2.1 fk = µ k N
= µkmgcos θ
= (0,19)(300)(9,8) cos 25o
= 506,26 N (3)
1.2.2
FN
Fapp

f
θ
Fg
F =0
net 
F + (-F sinθ) + (-f) = 0
app g o
F - (300)(9,8)sin 25 - 506,26 = 0
app
F = 1 748,76 N
app

Pave = Fvave 
= 1748,76 x 0,5 (6)
= 874,38 W

[18]

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WORKED EXAMPLE 2
PQ is a slide at a playground. The slide is 3 m long and 1,5 m high. A boy of mass 40 kg and
a girl of mass 22 kg stand at the top of the slide at P. The girl accelerates uniformly from rest
down the slide. She experiences a constant frictional force of 1,9 N. The boy falls vertically
down from the top of the slide through the height PR of 1,5 m. Ignore the effects of air friction.

2.1 Write down the principle of conservation of mechanical energy in words. (2)
2.2 Draw a labelled free-body diagram to show ALL the forces acting on the …
a) Boy while falling vertically downwards (1)
b) Girl as she slides down the slide (3)
2.3 Use the principle of CONSERVATION OF MECHANICAL ENERGY to calculate the
speed of the boy when he reaches the ground at R. (2)
2.4 Use the WORK-ENERGY THEOREM to calculate the speed of the girl when she reaches
the end of the slide at Q.
2.5 How would the velocity of the girl at Q compare to that of the boy at R if the slide exerts
no frictional force on the girl? Write down only GREATER THAN, LESS THAN or EQUAL
TO.

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SOLUTIONS
2.1 The total mechanical energy in an isolated system remains the same (2)
2.2 a)

(1)

b)

(3)
2.3 (Ek + Ep)P = (Ek + Ep)R
0 + (40)(9,8)(1,5) = (40)v2 + 0
v = 5,422 m s-1 (4)
2.4 There are two forces acting on the girl – gravity and friction
Wnet = ΔEk
Fg||.Δ x cos(θ) + Ff.Δx cos(θ) x cos(θ) = ½ m(vf2 - vi2)
(22)(9,8)sin(300)(3)cos00 + (1,9)(3)cos(1800) = ½ (22)(vf2 - 0)
vf = 5,374 m s-1
2.5 With no friction acting, the girl would have the same final velocity as the boy
WORKED EXAMPLE 3
During a fire extinguishing operation, a helicopter remains stationary (hovers) above a
dam while filling a bucket with water. The bucket, of mass 80 kg, is filled with 1 600 kg of
water. It is lifted vertically upwards through a height of 20 m by a cable at a CONSTANT
SPEED of 2 m·s-1. The tension in the cable is 17 000 N. Assume there is no sideways
motion during the lift. Air friction is NOT ignored.
3.1 Draw a labelled free body diagram showing ALL the forces acting on the bucket of
water, while being lifted upwards. (3)
3.2 Use the WORK ENERGY THEOREM to calculate the work done by air friction on
the bucket of water after moving through the height of 20 m. (5)
[8]

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SOLUTION
3.1

(3)

3.2 Wnet = Δ Ek
ΔW F+ Δ W Fg+ Δ W f = Δ Ek
17000. 20. Cos (00) + (1600 + 80) (9, 8) 20. cos(180 ) +Wf = 0
Wf = - 10720 J (5)

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PRACTICE QUESTIONS
QUESTION 1
The track consists of a curved SECTION AB and a horizontal SECTION BC. The track is
frictionless. Body Q, mass 0,9 kg, is stationary on SECTIONBC. A second body P, mass 0,6
kg, is placed at point A, which is 3,2 m vertically above the horizontal section. It is released
and slides down SECTION AB.

1.1 State the principle of conservation of mechanical energy in words. (2)

1.2 Use the energy principles to show that P moves at a velocity of 7,92 m.s-1 when it (4)
reaches body Q.
Body P collides with body Q. Immediately after collision, Body Q moves towards C at a
velocity of 4, 4 m.s-1.
1.3 Calculate the velocity of P immediately after the collision. (5)
1.4 Calculate the average force that Q exerts on P if the two bodies remain in contact for
0, 8 seconds.
(5)
[16]
QUESTION 2
The diagram below shows a crate of mass 50 kg being pulled up a slope from point A to point
B at CONSTANT VELOCITY. The slope makes an angle of 35 0 with the horizontal. The
frictional force that the surface exerts on the crate is 250 N.

2.1 Draw a labelled free body diagram showing all the forces acting on the crate. (4)
2.2 Calculate the:

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2.2.1 Force F applied to pull the crate up the slope from point A to point B. (4)
2.2.2 Work done by force F upon reaching point B. (3)
2.2.3 Power due to force F if it takes 2 minutes to move the crate from point A to (4)
point B.
[15]
QUESTION 3
A rescue helicopter is stationary (hovering) above the water to rescue a man in difficulties off
the Clifton beachfront (FIGURE 1). It lowers a a lifebuoy with a mass 2 kg onto the water for
the man to cling to it while the crew prepare to bring him aboard the helicopter (FIGURE 2).
When the buoy is at a height of 10 m above the ground it has a velocity of 1,5 m .s-1. A buoy
is then lowered at a constant acceleration onto the water with a cable, where it eventually
comes to rest. Assume there is no sideways motion during the descent. Air friction is NOT to
be ignored.

3.1 Define a non-conservative force. (2)

3.2 Identify TWO non-conservative forces acting on the buoy during its downward
descent (motion). (2)
3.3 Write down the name of a non-contact force that acts on the man while he is out of
the water and being hoisted upwards. (1)
3.4 Draw a free-body diagram showing ALL the forces acting on the buoy while it
is being lowered to the water. (3)
3.5 Write down the WORK-ENERGY THEOREM in words. (2)
3.6 Use the work-energy theorem to calculate the acceleration of the buoy as it is (6)
lowered to the water.
[16]

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QUESTION 4
The diagram below shows a truck of mass, 12 000 kg free-wheeling,(engine of the truck does
no work on the truck) up a straight inclined road of length 25 m. The truck experiences a
constant frictional force of magnitude 3 400 N as it moves up the incline. The truck enters the
bottom of the incline, point A, with a speed of 25 m.s-1 and reaches the top of the incline, point
B, with a speed of 20 m.s-1.

4.1 State the work-energy theorem in words. (2)

4.2 Draw a labelled force diagram showing all the forces acting on the truck as it moves up
the incline. (3)
4.3 Calculate the net work done on the truck on moving from the bottom of the incline to
the top of the incline. (4)
4.4 What is meant by a non-conservative force? (2)
4.5 Show that the work done by the non-conservative force is – 85 000 J. (3)
4.6 Hence calculate the height, h, reached by the truck at the top of the incline. (5)
QUESTION 5
A lift arrangement comprises an electric motor, a cage and its counterweight.
The counterweight moves vertically downwards as the cage moves upwards. The cage and
counterweight move at the same constant speed. Refer to the diagram below

The cage, carrying passengers, moves vertically upwards at a constant speed, covering 55 m
in 3 minutes. The counterweight has a mass of 950 kg. The total mass of the cage and
passengers is 1 200 kg. The electric motor provides the power needed to operate the lift
system. Ignore the effects of friction.
5.1 Define the term power in words. (2)

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5.2 Calculate the work done by the:

5.2.1 Gravitational force on the cage (3)
5.2.2 Counterweight on the cage (2)
5.3 Calculate the average power required by the motor to operate the lift arrangement in
3 minutes. Assume that there are no energy losses due to heat and sound (6)
[13]
Question 6
A pendulum with a bob of mass 5 kg is held stationary at a height h metres above the ground.
When released, it collides with a block of mass 2 kg which is stationary at point A. The bob
swings past A and comes to rest momentarily at a position ¼ h above the ground. The
diagrams below are NOT drawn to scale.

Immediately after the collision the 2 kg block begins to move from A to B at a constant speed
of 4,95 m∙s-1. Ignore frictional effects and assume that no loss of mechanical energy occurs
during the collision.
6.1 Calculate the:
6.1.1 Kinetic energy of the block immediately after the collision (3)
6.1.2 Height h (4)
The block moves from point B at a velocity of 4, 95 m·s-1 up a rough inclined plane to point C.
The speed of the block at point C is 2 m·s-1. Point C is 0,5 m above the horizontal, as shown
in the diagram below.
During its motion from B to C a uniform frictional force acts on the block.

6.2 State the work-energy theorem in words. (2)

6.3 Use energy principles to calculate the work done by the frictional force when the 2 kg (4)
block moves from point B to point C.

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SOLUTIONS
QUESTION 1
1.1 In an isolated system, the total mechanical energy is conserved (2)
1.2 Emech at A = Emech at B
(Ek + Ep)at A = (Ek +Ep)at B

(0.6)(3.2) = 1
2 (0.6)(v2) + 0

0 + (0.6)(9.8)(3.2) = 1
2 (0.6)(v2)+0

18.816 = 0.3v2
(4)
v=7.92m.s-1
1.3 pbefore = pafter
m1.v1i + m2.v2i = m1.v1f + m2.v2f
(0.6)(7.92) + 0 = (0.6)v + (0.9)(4.4)
v = 1.32 m.s-1 towards C (5)

1.4 Ft = m (vf – vi)

F(0.8) = 0.6(1.32-7.92)
F = -4.95N
F = 4.95 N to the left (5)

[16]
QUESTION 2
2.1

(4)

2.2.1 W net= K

(50)(9.8)(sin 350)(8)(cos1800) + (250)(8)(cos 1800)+F(8)(cos00) =0

F = 531.053 N (4)

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2.2.2 Wmotor = F xcosθ = (531.53)(8)(cos00) = 4248.42 J (3)

2.2.3 W
P
t

4248.42
=  35,40W
2(60)

P = 35.40 W (4)
[15]
QUESTION 3
3.1 A force for which the work done depends on the path taken (2)
3.2 force of air friction
Tension/ Force of rope (2)
3.3 Weight/ gravitational force of earth on an object. (1)
3.4

(3)

3.5 The net work done by an object is equal to the change in its kinetic energy (2)
3.6 Wnet = Δ Ek
Fnet ΔxcosØ = ½mvf2 - ½mvi2
Fnet(10)cos1800 = ½(2)(02) - ½(2)(1.52)
Fnet(-10) = -2,25N
ma = + 0,225
2a = 0,225
a = 0,11 25m·s-2 (6)
[16]

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QUESTION 4
4.1 Net work done on an object is equal to the change in the kinetic energy of the object. (2)
4.2

(3)
4.3 Wnet  K  Ek  Ekf  Eki

= ½ mvf2 – ½ mvi2
= ½(12 000)(20)2 - ½(12 000)(25)2
= - 1350 000 J (4)

4.4 The force whose work done is not dependant on the path taken (2)
4.5 WFf = Ffx cos 
= (3 400)(25) (cos180)
Ff = - 85 000 J (3)

4.6 Wnc = ΔU + ΔK

- 85 000 = mghf - mghi + ½ mvf2 - ½ mvi2

= (12 000 x 9,8 x h - 0) + (- 1350 000)

(5)
h= 10,76 m
[19]
QUESTION 5
5.1 The rate at which work is done (2)
5.2.1 W = F∆xcosθ
Wgravity = mg∆ycosθ
= (1 200)(9,8)(55)cos1800 (3)
= - 646 800 J (6,47 x105 J)
5.2.2 Wcounterweight = mg∆ycosθ
= (950)(9,8)(55)cos0o
= 512 050 J (5,12 x105 J) (2)

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5.3 Wnet = ∆EK

Wgravity + Wcountweight + Wmotor = 0
Wmotor = - (W gravity + W countweight)
Wnc = ∆EK + ∆Ep
-646800 + 512050 + Wmotor = 0
∴Wmotor = 134 750 J

W
P av motor = Δt

134750
= 180 (6)
= 748,61 W
[13]
QUESTION 6
6.1.1 Ek = ½ mv2
= ½ (2)(4,95)2
= 24,50 J (3)
6.1.2 EM before = EM after
[(EM)bob + (EM)block ]before= [(EM ) Block +(EM)bob ]after
(mgh + ½ mv2)before = (mgh + ½ mv2)after
(5)(9,8)h + 0 + 0 = 5(9,8)¼h + 0 + 24,50
h = 0,67 m (4)
6.2 The net work done on an object is equal to the change in the object's kinetic energy (2)
6.3 Wnet = ΔEK
Wf + mgΔycosθ = ½m(vf2 – vi2)
Wf +(2)(9,8)(0,5)cos180o = ½ (2)(22 – 4,952)
Wf = - 10,7 J (4)
[13]

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WAVES, SOUND & LIGHT

Pre- knowledge: Grade 10 work
Teachers are strongly advised to revise with learners the following
concepts
• Pulse is a single disturbance.
• Wave is a repeated disturbance.
• Period (T) is the time taken to complete a single wave.
• Frequency is the number of vibrations passing through a point in one second.
• Unit for frequency is Hertz (Hz).
ʎ represent the wavelength in (m)
v represents the speed of sound waves in (m.s-1)
1
• Frequency can be calculated using: v= f.λ or 𝑓 =
𝑇

TYPES OF WAVES
1. Electromagnetic waves
2. Mechanical waves

Types of Mechanical Waves

1. Transverse waves
• Particles of the medium move perpendicular to the direction of
propagation of a wave.
2. Longitudinal waves
• Particles of the medium move parallel to the direction of propagation of a
wave.
DOPPLER EFFECT
CHAPTER SUMMARY: DOPPER EFFECT

𝑉±𝑉𝐿
• Use the general Doppler equation 𝑓𝐿 = 𝑓 for any calculation (i.e. when
𝑉±𝑉𝑠 𝑠
EITHER the source or the listener is moving).

Note: Only the general Doppler equation, as shown above, or the equation for the
specific situation are accepted as correct formulae for a calculation.

• Teachers need to explain the Doppler equation to learners so that they can
understand when and why to add or subtract the velocities of the source or listener to
that of sound. For example, if the source moves towards a stationary observer,
𝑉
only𝑓𝐿 = 𝑓𝑠 is accepted as correct formula.
𝑉+𝑉𝑠
• This equation is a combination of FOUR scenarios:

1. A moving source approaching a stationary listener,

2. A moving source moving away from a stationary listener,
3. A moving listener approaching a stationary source and

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4. A moving listener moving away from a stationary source.

• When using the general Doppler equation the following approach can be helpful:

o If a source of sound waves moves towards a stationary listener, f L will be higher

than fs, thus VL = 0 and a negative sign is used for vs in the denominator in order to
obtain a higher observed frequency value.
𝑉
𝑓𝐿 = 𝑓
𝑉 − 𝑉𝑠 𝑠

o If a source of sound waves moves away from a stationary listener, f L will be lower
than fs, thus VL = 0 and a positive sign is used for vs in the denominator in order to
obtain a lower observed frequency value.
𝑉
𝑓𝐿 = 𝑓
𝑉 + 𝑉𝑠 𝑠

o If a listener moves towards a stationary source of sound waves, f L will be higher

than fs, thus vs = 0 and a positive sign is used for VL in the numerator in order to
obtain a higher observed frequency value.
𝑉 + 𝑉𝐿
𝑓𝐿 = 𝑓𝑠
𝑉
o If a listener moves away from a stationary source of sound waves, f L will be lower
than fs, thus vs = 0 and a negative sign is used for VL in the numerator in order to
obtain a lower observed frequency value.
𝑉 − 𝑉𝐿
𝑓𝐿 = 𝑓𝑠
𝑉

• Describe applications of the Doppler Effect with ultrasound waves in medicine,

e.g. to measure the rate of blood flow or the heart of a foetus in the womb.

It is the change in frequency (or pitch) of the sound detected by a listener, because the
sound source and the listener have different velocities relative to the medium of sound
propagation.
When the source of a sound is moving towards the listener, the pitch sounds higher than
that of the source. When the source moves away from the listener the pitch sounds lower.
This is known as the DOPPLER EFFECT

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Sketches of wave fronts

Source moving towards a stationary listener

 Wavelength decreases/ waves are compressed
 Frequency increases
 Velocity constant
 Pitch of sound increases

•L

Direction of movement

Source moving away from a stationary listener

 Wavelength increases/ waves are stretched
 Frequency decreases
 Velocity constant
 Pitch of sound decreases

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Direction of movement

•L

Stationary source & listener / Listener inside a moving source

 The frequency is equal to (the same) / wavelength is the same at all
points
 No relative motion between the source and the observer
 True pitch of sound

Equation of Doppler Effect

𝑽±𝑽𝑳
𝒇𝑳 = 𝒇𝒔
𝑽±𝑽𝒔
Applications of Doppler Effect
 Used by traffic department as speed traps.
 Blood flow rate can be measured.
 Speed of the planets and stars can be determined.
 Used to measure heartbeat of the unborn foetus in the womb. Used in
weather stations to detect precipitation.
Red Shift
 Is the shift in the spectra of distant galaxies towards longer wavelength,
towards the red end of the spectra?
 The Doppler Effect is characteristic of all waves, including light.
 All stars emit white light, and stars moving away from the Earth will display
light with longer wavelengths – the red colours of the spectrum, due to the
Doppler Effect.
 Astronomers have found that all stars exhibit a red shift – are moving away
from the earth and from each other. This suggest that the universe is
expanding.

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Worked Examples

1 In which direction will an absorption spectrum shift during a red shift?

A) towards the blue end of the spectrum.
B) to light of a shorter wavelength.
C) to light of a lower frequency.
D) to light of a higher energy.
(2)
SOLUTION

1. C  (2)
2. A police car moves away from an accident scene at a constant speed with its siren on.
A paramedic at the accident observes a 7% drop in the frequency of the sound of the
siren in comparison to when the car was standing still. Speed of sound in air on that day is
335 m·s-1.
2.1 State in words, the Doppler Effect. (2)
2.2 Calculate the speed of the car. (4)
2.3 An astronomer on Earth observes the missing frequencies in a line from a
distant galaxy. The frequencies associated with specific elements are all lower than
expected.
2.3.1 With what kind of line spectrum is the astronomer working?
Answer only ABSORPTION or EMISSION (1)
2.3.2 Identify the type of shift seen by the astronomer (2)
2.3.3 Is the distant galaxy moving towards or away from our Solar system (2)
SOLUTIONS
2.1 The apparent change in frequency in sound heard due to the relative (2)
motion between listener and/or source. 
2.2 𝑽 ± 𝑽𝑳
𝒇𝑳 = 𝒇
𝑽 ± 𝑽𝒔 𝒔
𝟑𝟑𝟓 − 𝟎
𝟎, 𝟗𝟑𝒇𝒔 = 𝒇
𝟑𝟑𝟓 + 𝑽𝒔 𝒔
vS = 25,22 m.s-1 (4)
2.3.1 Absorption (line spectrum)  (2)
2.3.2 Red-shift  (2)
2.3.3 Away from  (2)

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3. A group of learners conducted an experiment to determine the speed of

sound on a particular day. At a particular point they place a sound source
emitting at a certain frequency. One learner walks away from the sound
source at a constant velocity with a detector which registers the frequency
of the sound detected. The graph below shows the detected frequencies
versus time.

NB: THE GRAPH IS NOT DRAWN ACCORDING TO SCALE

871
Frequency (Hz)

850

Time (s)
3.1 Write down the frequency of the source (1)
3.2 Explain in terms of the wave motion why the detector registers
different frequencies (2)

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Another learner records the time taken for the first learners to move from the point of
sound source to a particular point.
The graph below shows a position – time graph of the motion
NB: THE GRAPH IS NOT DRAWN ACCORDING TO SCALE

∆𝑥(m)
110

94

0
6 8 ∆𝑡(𝑠)

3.3 Calculate the velocity of sound on that particular day (7)

3.4 Name the TWO applications of Doppler effect in the medicinal field (2)

SOLUTIONS
3.1 871 Hz  (1)
3.2. As the learners stands next to the sound source, the detector registers a
frequency of the source because there is no relative motion. As the learner
moves away from the source the waves becomes stretched out, 
the wavelength becomes longer and the frequency becomes lower 
(3)
∆𝒙
3.3 v= 
∆𝒕
𝟏𝟏𝟎−𝟗𝟒
= 
𝟖−𝟔
= 8 m.s-1
𝒇 = 𝒗 ± 𝒗L . 𝒇s 
𝒗 ± 𝒗s
𝒗−𝟖
𝟖𝟓𝟎  =  × 𝟖𝟕𝟏 
𝒗
v = 331,81 m.s-1  (7)

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3.4 Used to measure the direction and the speed of blood flow in arteries and vein
(2)
Used to monitor the heartbeat of a newly formed foetus 

ACTIVITIES
QUESTION 1

The siren of a stationary police car emits sound waves of wavelength 0,55 m.With its
siren on, the police car now approaches a stationary listener at constant velocity on a
straight road. Assume that the speed of sound in air is 345 m·s-1.
1.1. Will the wavelength of the sound waves observed by the listener be
GREATER THAN, SMALLER THAN or EQUAL TO 0,55 m? (1)
1.2 Name the phenomenon observed in QUESTION 3.1. (1)
1.3 Calculate the frequency of the sound waves observed by the listener if
the car approaches him at a speed of 120 km·h-1
(7)
QUESTION 2
A police car moving at a constant velocity with its siren on, passes a stationary listener.
The graph below shows the changes in the frequency of the sound of the siren detected
by the listener. Take the speed of sound in air to be 340 m∙s-1.

2.1 Write down the frequency of the sound detected by the listener as the police
car:
2.1.1 Approaches the listener (1)
2.1.2 Moves away from the listener (1)
2.2 Calculate the speed of the police car. (6)

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QUESTION 3
A police car is moving at a constant speed on a straight horizontal road. The siren of the
car emits sound of constant frequency. EACH of two observers, A and B, standing some
distance apart on the same side of the road, records the frequency of the detected
sound.
Observer A records a frequency of 690 Hz and observer B records a frequency of
610 Hz.

3.1 In which direction is the car moving? Choose from TOWARDS A or AWAY
FROM A. Give a reason for the answer.
(2)
3.2 Determine the speed of the police car. Take the speed of sound in air as
340 m.s-1
(6)
3.3 Name ONE application of the Doppler effect.
(1)
QUESTION 4
Use the diagram below to answer the following questions.

4.1 Identify the medical device shown in the diagram. (1)

4.2 Explain briefly how the device functions and what it may be used for. (2)

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QUESTION 5
5.1 An ambulance is moving towards a stationary listener at a constant speed of
30 m∙s-1. The siren of the ambulance emits sound waves having a wavelength
of 0,28 m. Take the speed of sound in air as 340 m∙s-1.

5.1.1 Calculate the frequency of the sound waves emitted by the siren as
(3)
heard by the ambulance driver.
5.1.2 Calculate the frequency of the sound waves emitted by the siren as
(5)
heard by the listener.
5.1.3 How would the answer to QUESTION 7.1.2 change if the speed of
the ambulance were LESS THAN 30 m∙s-1? Write down only
INCREASES, DECREASES or REMAINS THE SAME. (1)
5.2 An observation of the spectrum of a distant star shows that it is moving away
from the Earth. Explain, in terms of the frequencies of the spectral lines, how
it is possible to conclude that the star is moving away from the Earth. (2)
6. A stationary bat sends out a sound signal and receives the same signal
reflected from a moving moth at a frequency of 230,3 kHz.
6.1 Calculate the speed of this sound wave through the air (3)
6.2.1 Is the moth moving TOWARDS or AWAY FROM the bat? (1)
6.2.2 Calculate the magnitude of the velocity of the moth, assuming that the
velocity is constant. (6)
QUESTION 7
The data below was obtained during an investigation into the relationship between the
different velocities of a moving sound source and the frequencies detected by a stationary
listener for each velocity. The effect of wind was ignored in this investigation.

EXPERIMENT 1 2 3 4
VELOCITY OF SOUND SOURCE 0 10 20 30
FREQUENCY OF SOUND DETECTED 900 874 850 827
BY THE STATIONARY LISTENER
7.1.1 Write down the dependent variable for this investigation. (1)
7.1.2 State the Doppler effect in words. (2)
7.1.3 Was the sound source moving TOWARDS or AWAY FROM the listener?
Give a reason for the answer. (2)
7.1.4 Use the information in the table to calculate the speed of sound during the
investigation. (5)
7.2 The spectral lines of a distant star are shifted towards the longer wavelengths
of light. Is the star moving TOWARDS or AWAY FROM the Earth? (1)

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QUESTION 8
A bird flies directly towards a stationary birdwatcher at constant velocity. The bird
constantly emits sound waves at a frequency of 1 650 Hz. The birdwatcher hears a
change in pitch as the bird comes closer to him.
8.1 Write down the property of sound that is related to pitch. (1)
8.2 Give a reason why the birdwatcher observes a change in pitch as the bird
approaches him. (1)
The air pressure versus distance graph below represents the waves detected by the
-1
birdwatcher as the bird comes closer to him. The speed of sound in air is 340 m∙s .

8.3 From the graph, write down the wavelength of the detected waves. (1)
8.4 Calculate the:
8.4.1 Frequency of the waves detected by the birdwatcher (3)
8.4.2 Magnitude of the velocity at which the bird flies (5)

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SOLUTIONS TO ACTIVITIES
1.1 Smaller than  (1)
1.2 Doppler Effect  (1)
1.3

1.4 Decreases  (1)

2.1.1 130 Hz  (1)

2.1.2 170 Hz  (1)

2.2 𝑓 L= 𝑣 ± 𝑣L . 𝑓 s 
𝑣 ± 𝑣s
170 = (340 + 0)  × 𝑓 s …………………………………1
(340 − 𝑣s)
𝑓 L= 𝑣 ± 𝑣 L . 𝑓 s
𝑣 ± 𝑣s
130 = (340 – 0) . 𝑓s ……………………………………2
(340 + vs)
vs = 45,33 m.s-1  (45,33 – 45,45 m.s-1 (6)

3.1 Towards ARecorded frequency higher (2)

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3.2 𝑓 L= 𝑣 ± 𝑣L . 𝑓 s 
𝑣 ± 𝑣s
FOR A
690 = 340  𝑓 s…………………….1
340 - vs
FOR B
610 = 340 𝑓s …………………..2
340 + vs
vs = 20,90 m.s-1  (20,90 – 20,92 m.s-1) (6)

3.3 ANY ONE: Doppler flow meter  Measuring foetal heartbeat, Measure speed
of blood flow, Ultra sound, Sonar or Radar (for tracking speeding objects)
(1)

4.1 Doppler flow meter (1)

4.2 Measure speed of blood flow. Sound of a certain frequency is directed onto
red blood cells. The reflected sound has a different frequency due to the fact
that the blood cells are moving away from the device. The difference in
frequency of the incident sound and reflected sound is used to calculate the
speed of the blood flow. (2)
5.1.1. v = 𝑓s λ 
340 = 𝑓 s (0,28) 
𝑓s = 1214,29 Hz  (3)
5.1.2 𝑓L= 𝑣 ± 𝑣L . 𝑓S 
𝑣 ± 𝑣s
340 √
=( ) ×1214,29
340−30 √

= 1331,80 Hz  (5)
5.1.3 Decreases  (1)

5.2
The spectral lines of the star are/should be shifted towards the lower
frequency end, which is the red end (red shift) of the spectrum.  (2)
6.1 𝑣 = 𝑓𝜆 
= (222 × 103)(1,5 × 103) 
= 333 m.s-1 (3)
6.2.1 Towards the bat  (1)

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6.2.2 fL = v ± vL . fs 
v ± vs
230,3 = 333  . 222 
333 - vs (5)
vs = 12 m.s-1 towards the bat 
7.1.1 Frequency (of sound detected by the listener (observer))
(1)
7.1.2 The apparent change in frequency or pitch of sound (detected (by a listener)
because the sound source and the listener have different velocities relative to
the medium of sound propagation.  2
7.1.3 Away  Detected frequency of source decreases (2)
7.1.4 Using experiment 2

𝑓 L = v ± vL × 𝑓 s 

v ± vs

874 = v – 0  (900)

v + 10

v = 336,15 m.s-1  ( Accept: 336,15 m.s-1 – 323,33 m.s-1 (5)

Using experiment 3
𝑓 L = v ± vL × 𝑓s
v ± vs
850 = v – 0 (900)
v + 20
v = 340 m.s-1 (Accept: 313,33 m.s-1 – 340 m.s-1)

Using experiment 4
𝑓 L = v ± vL × 𝑓 s 
v ± vs
827 = v – 0  (900) 
v + 30
v = 339,86 m.s-1 (Accept 339,86 – 345 m.s-1)
(5)
7.2 Away from the Earth  (1)
8.1 Frequency  (1)
8.2 There is relative motion between the bird and the bird watcher.  (1)
8.3 0,2m  (1)
8.4.1 λ=fv 
340 = f(0,2) 
f = 1 700 Hz  (3)
8.4.2 fL = v ± vL . fs 
v ± vs
1700= 340  .1650 
340 - vs (5)
vs = 10 m.s-1 

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Electrostatics (Coulomb’s Law)

Revision grade 10 work
Two types of charges

o All materials contain positive charges (protons) and negative charges (electrons)
o Positively charged objects are electron deficient( shortage of electrons)
o Negatively charged objects have an excess of electrons
o Neutral object has an equal number of electrons and protons (no net charge)
Charged objects exert forces on each other:

o Like charges repel each other – repulsion force

o unlike charges attract each other – attraction force

Objects can be charged by tribo-electric charging.

o Tribo-electric charging: A type of contact electrification in which certain materials
become electrically charged after they come into contact with different materials and
are then separated (such as through rubbing).

Charge conservation
o State that the SI unit for electric charge is the coulomb (C).
o State the principle of conservation of charge: The net charge of an isolated
system remains constant during any physical process e.g. two charges making
contact and then separating.
o Apply the principle of conservation of charge. When two identical conducting objects
having charges Q1 and Q2 on insulating stands touch, each object has the same
final charge on separation.
𝑄1 +𝑄2
o Final charge after separation: 𝑄 = 2
Charge quantization
o State the principle of charge quantization: All charges in the universe consist of an
integer multiple of the charge on one electron, i.e. 1,6 x 10-19 C.
𝑄
o Apply the principle of charge quantization: 𝑛 = , where qe= 1,6 x 10-19 C and n
𝑞𝑒
is an integer (number of electrons).

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Coulomb's law
o State Coulomb's law: The magnitude of the electrostatic force exerted by one point
charge (Q1) on another point charge (Q2) is directly proportional to the product of
the magnitudes of the charges and inversely proportional to the square of the
distance (r) between them.
𝑘𝑄1 𝑄2
o In symbols: 𝐹 = , where
𝑟2
𝐹= electrostatic force measured in Newtons (N)
𝑄1 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑄2 = charges measured in Coulombs (C)
𝑟 = distance measured in metres (m)
𝑘 = Coulombs Law constant ( 9 × 109 𝑁 ∙ 𝑚2 ∙ 𝐶 −2 )
o Solve problems for charges in one dimension 1- D (restrict to three charges in a
straight line).Eg

o Solve problems using the equation for charges in two dimensions (2D) – for three
charges in a right-angled formation (limit to charges at the 'vertices of a right-angled
triangle'). E.g

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ELECTRIC FIELD
o Describe an electric field as a region of space in which an electric charge
experiences a force.
o The direction of the electric field at a point is the direction that a positive test charge
would move if placed at that point.

o A single point charge

Positive Negative
o Two point charges (one positive , one negative)

o Both negative

o both positive

NOTE: Restrict to situations in which the charges are identical in magnitude.

o Define electric field at a point: The electric field at a point is the electrostatic force
experienced per unit positive charge placed at that point.
𝐹
o In symbols: 𝐸 = , where
𝑞

𝐸 = electric field measured in Newton per Coulomb (N.C-1)

𝐹 = electrostatic force measured in Newton (N)
𝑞 = charge measured in Coulombs (C) (a charge that will experience a force)

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o Calculate the electric field at a point due to a number of point charges, using the
𝑘𝑄
equation 𝐸 = to determine the contribution to the field due to each charge.
𝑟2
(Restrict to three charges in a straight line). E.g

WORKED EXAMPLE 1:

The diagram below shows two small identical metal spheres, R and S, each placed on a
wooden stand. Spheres R and S carry charges of + 8 μC and - 4 μC respectively. Ignore
the effects of air.

Spheres R and S are brought into contact for a while and then separated by a small
distance.
1. Calculate the final charge on each of the spheres.
2. Draw the electric field pattern due to the two spheres R and S.

After R and S have been in contact and separated, a third sphere, T, of charge
+1 µC is now placed between them as shown in the diagram below.

3. Draw a free-body diagram showing the electrostatic forces experienced by sphere

T due to spheres R and S.
4. Calculate the net electrostatic force experienced by T due to R and S.
5. Define the electric field at a point.

6. Calculate the magnitude of the net electric field at the location of T due to R
and S. (Treat the spheres as if they were point charges.)

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Solutions
Data : QR = + 8 μC
QS = - 4 μC
1. Q + Q2
Q= 1
2

+ 8 + (-4)
Q=
2

Q = = 2𝜇C
2.

3. DATA:
QR = +2X10-6 C
QS = + 2X10-6 C
QT = +1X10-6 C

rRT = 10cm ÷100 = 0.1m

rTS = 20cm ÷ 100 = 0.2m

k = 9x109 N.m2C-2

k Q1 Q2
FRT =
r2

9 × 109 × 2×10-6 × 1×10-6

FRT =
(0,1)2
= 1.8N to the right

k Q1 Q2
FST =
r2

(9 × 109 )(2×10-6 )(1×10-6 )

FRT =
(0,2)2
= 0.45N to the left
Fnet = FRT+ FST

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= 1.8+(-0.45)
= 1.35 N to the right
5. The electric field at a point is the electrostatic force experienced per unit positive charge
placed at that point.
6. F
E=
q

1,35
E=
1× 10-6

= 1,35 x106 N.C-1

WORKED EXAMPLE 2:

Two small spheres, X and Y, carrying charges of +6 x 10-6 C and +8 x 10-6 C respectively,
are placed 0,20 m apart in air.

1. State Coulomb's law in words.

2. Calculate the magnitude of the electrostatic force experienced by charged sphere X.

A third sphere, Z, of unknown negative charge, is now placed at a distance of 0,30 m

below sphere Y, in such a way that the line joining the charged spheres X and Y is
perpendicular to the line joining the charged spheres Y and Z, as shown in the diagram
below.

3. Draw a vector diagram showing the directions of the electrostatic forces and the net
force experienced by charged sphere Y due to the presence of charged spheres X
and Z respectively.

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4. The magnitude of the net electrostatic force experienced by charged sphere Y is

15,20 N. Calculate the charge on sphere Z.

Solutions
DATA:
QX = +6 x 10-6 C
QY = +8 x 10-6 C
RXY = 0,20m
1. The magnitude of the electrostatic force exerted by one point charge on another
point charge is directly proportional to the product of the (magnitudes of the) charges
and inversely proportional to the square of the distance (r) between them.
2. k Q1 Q2
FXY =
r2

(9 × 109)(6 × 10-6)(8 × 10-6)

FXY =
(0,2)2
= 10.8 N
3.

4. DATA:
QZ = ?
rYZ = 0,30m
Fnet = 15,20 N
(Fnet)2 = (FXY)2 + (FZY)2
(15.20)2 = (10.8)2 + (FXY)2
FZY = 10.696 N
k Q1Q2
FZY =
r2
(9 × 109)(8 × 10-6)(Q)
10,696 =
(0,30)2
QZ = 1.34 x 10-5 C

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WORKED EXAMPLE 3:
A and B are two small spheres separated by a distance of 0,70 m. Sphere A carries a
charge of +1,5 x 10-6 C and sphere B carries a charge of -2,0 x 10-6 C.

P is a point between spheres A and B and is 0,40 m from sphere A, as shown in the
diagram above.

1. Define the term electric field at a point.

2. Calculate the magnitude of the net electric field at point P.
3. A point charge of magnitude 3,0 x 10-9 C is now placed at point P.
Calculate the magnitude of the electrostatic force experienced by this charge.
SOLUTIONS
DATA:
QA = +1.5X10-6C
QB = -2X10-6C
rAB = 0.70m
rAP = 0.40m
1. Electric field at a point is the force per unit positive charge placed at that point.
2. Enet = EA + EB
kQ kQ
Enet = 2 +
r r2
(9 × 109)(6 × 10-6) (9 × 109)(2,0 × 10-6)
Enet = +
(0,4)2 (0,3)2

Enet= 2.84 x 105 N.C-1

3. F
E=
q

F
2,84 ×105 =
3 × 10- 9

F = 8,52 x 10-4 N

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WORKED EXAMPLE 4:

The diagram below shows a small metal sphere P on an insulated stand. The sphere
carries a charge of -4 x 10-9 C, as shown in the diagram.

1. Draw the electric field pattern around sphere P

2. Calculate the number of electrons in excess on sphere P.

A second metal sphere T carrying a charge of +2 x 10-9 C is placed 1 cm from sphere P,

as shown in the diagram below

3. Calculate the magnitude of the electrostatic force that sphere P exerts on sphere T.
The spheres are now brought into contact with each other and returned to their original
positions.
4. Calculate the final charge after they are separated and returned to their original
positions.
5. Calculate the magnitude of the electrostatic force that sphere P exerts on sphere T
after they are separated and returned to their original positions.
Solutions
DATA:
QP = -4 x 10-9 C
QT = +2 x 10-9 C

rAB = 1cm ÷ 100 = 0.01m

1.

2. Q
n=
qe

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- 4 × 10-9
n=
- 1,6 × 10-19

n = 2.5x1010 electrons
3. k Q1Q2
FPT =
r2

(9 × 109)(4 × 10-9)(2 × 10-9)

FXY =
(0,01)2
= 7.2x10-4 N

4. Q1 + Q2
Q=
2

(- 4 × 10-9) + (2 × 10-9)
Q=
2

Q = -1X10-9C
5. k Q1 Q2
FPT =
r2

(9 × 109)(1× 10-9)(1× 10-9)

FPT = A
(0,01)2
FPT = 9X10-5 N

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Questions
Question 1
Two point charges, P and S, are placed a distance 0,1 m apart. The charge on

P is +1,5 x 10-9 C and that on S is -2 x 10-9 C.

A third point charge, R, with an unknown positive charge, is placed 0,2 m to the right of
point charge S, as shown in the diagram below.

1.1 State Coulomb's law in words. (2)

1.2 Draw a labelled force diagram showing the electrostatic forces (2)
acting on R due to P and S.
1.3 Calculate the magnitude of the charge on R, if it experiences a
net electrostatic force of 1,27 x 10-6 N to the left.
(7)
Take forces directed to the right as positive.
[11]
Question 2

P is a point 0,5 m from charged sphere A. The electric field at P is 3 x 107 N∙C-1
directed towards A. Refer to the diagram below.

2.1 Draw the electric field pattern due to charged sphere A. Indicate the sign of (2)
the charge on the sphere in your diagram.
2.2 Calculate the magnitude of the charge on sphere A. (3)

Another charged sphere, B, having an excess of 105 electrons, is now placed

at point P.
2.3 Calculate the electrostatic force experienced by sphere B. (7)
[12]

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Question 3

3.1 A small sphere, Y, carrying an unknown charge, is suspended at the end of a light
inextensible string which is attached to a fixed point. Another sphere, X, carrying a
charge of +6 x10-6 C, on an insulated stand is brought close to sphere Y.

Sphere Y experiences an electrostatic force and comes to rest 0,2 m away

from sphere X, with the string at an angle of 10° with the vertical, as shown
in the diagram below.

3.1.1 What is the nature of the charge on sphere Y? Choose from

POSITIVE or NEGATIVE. (1)

3.1.2 Calculate the magnitude of the charge on sphere Y if the
magnitude of the electrostatic force acting on it is 3,05 N. (3)
3.1.3 Draw a labelled free-body diagram for sphere Y.
(3)
3.1.4 Calculate the magnitude of the tension in the string.
(3)
3.2 Two small charged spheres, A and B, on insulated stands, with charges
+2 x10-5 C and -4 x10-5 C respectively, are placed 0,4 m apart, as shown in the
diagram below. M is the midpoint between spheres A and B.

3.2.1 Define the term electric field at a point. (2)

3.2.2 Calculate the net electric field at point M. (6)

[18]

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Question 4
Three small identical metal spheres, P, S and T, on insulated stands, are initially
neutral. They are then charged to carry charges of -15 x 10-9 C, Q and +2 x 10-9 C
respectively, as shown below.

The charged spheres are brought together so that all three spheres touch each other at
the same time, and are then separated. The charge on each sphere, after separation, is
-3 x 10-9 C.
4.1 Determine the value of charge Q. (2)
4.2 Draw the electric field pattern associated with the charged spheres, S and
T, after they are separated and returned to their original positions. (3)
The spheres, each with the new charge of -3 x 10-9 C, are now placed at points on the x-
axis and the y-axis, as shown in the diagram below, with sphere P at the origin.

4.3 State Coulomb's law in words. (2)

Calculate the magnitude of the:
4.4 Net electrostatic force acting on sphere P (5)
4.5 Net electric field at the origin due to charges S and T (3)
4.6 ONE of the charged spheres, P and T, experienced a very small increase in mass
after it was charged initially.
4.6.1 Which sphere, P or T, experienced this very small increase in
mass? (1)
4.6.2 Calculate the increase in mass by the sphere in QUESTION 4.6.1. (3)
[19]

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Question 5
Two small charged spheres, A and B, are placed on insulated stands, 0,2 m apart, as
shown in the diagram below. They carry charges of −4 x 10 -6 C and +3 x 10-6 C
respectively.

M is a point that is a distance of 0,1 m to the right of sphere B.

5.1 Calculate the number of electrons in excess on sphere A. (3)
5.2 Calculate the magnitude of the electrostatic force exerted by sphere A on
sphere B. (3)
5.3 Describe the term electric field. (2)
5.4 Calculate the magnitude of the net electric field at point M. (5)
Charged spheres A and B and another charged sphere D are now arranged along a
rectangular system of axes, as shown in the diagram below.

The net electrostatic force experienced by sphere A is 7,69 N in the direction as shown
in the diagram above.
5.5 Is the charge on sphere D POSITIVE or NEGATIVE? (1)
5.6 Calculate the magnitude of the charge on sphere D. (3)
SOLUTIONS
1.1 The magnitude of the electrostatic force exerted by one point charge
on another point charge is directly proportional to the product (of the
magnitudes) of the charges and inversely proportional to the square of the
distance between them. (2)
1.2

(2)
1.3 k Q1Q2 k Q1Q2
Fnet = +
r2 r2

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-6
(9 × 109)(1,5 × 10-9)(Q2) (9 × 109)(2 × 10-9)(Q2)
- 1,27 × 10 = +
(0,3)2 (0,2)2
Q = 4,23 x 10-9C (7)
[11]
2.1

(2)
2.2 kQ
E=
r2

7
(9 × 109)Q
3 × 10 =
(0,5)2

Q = 8,33 × 10-4 C (3)

2.3 Q
n=
qe

Q
105 =
1,6×10-19
Q = 1.6x10-13 C
F
E=
q

F
3 × 107 =
1,6 × 10-13

F = 4,8 × 10-7 N to the right (6)

[11]
3.1 The magnitude of the electrostatic force exerted by two point charges on
each other is directly proportional to the product of the magnitudes of the
charges and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between
them. (2)
3.2 k Q1 Q2
F =
r2 (3)

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(9 × 109)(4,2 × 10-6)(6,8 × 10-6)

F =
(0,3)2
= 2,36 N
3.3 Q1 + Q2
Q=
2
(4,2 × 10-6) + (- 6,8 × 10-6)
Q=
2
= -1,3 X 10-6 C (2)
3.4

(3)
3.5 kQ
E=
r2

(9 × 109)(1,3 × 10-6)
E=
(0,4)2

E = 73125 N.C-1 right

kQ
E=
r2
(9 × 109)(1,3 × 10-6)
E=
(0,1)2

E = 1170000 N.C-1 right

Enet = 73125 + 1170 000

= 1243 125 N.C-1 (5)
4.1 Q1 + Q2 + Q3
Q=
3

-9
(- 15 × 10-9) + Q2 + (2 × 10-9)
- 3 × 10 =
3
Q2 = + 4 x 10-9 C (2)

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4.2

(3)
4.3 The magnitude of the electrostatic force exerted by one point charge (Q1)
on another point charge (Q2) is directly proportional to the product of the
(magnitudes) of the charges and inversely proportional to the square of the
distance (r) between them. (2)
4.4 k Q1 Q2
F =
r2
(9 × 109)(3 × 10-9)(3 × 10-9)
F=
(0,1)2
= 8,1 x 10-6 N

(9 × 109)(3 × 10-9)(3 × 10-9)

FTP =
(0,3)2
= 9 x 10-7 N

Fnet2 = (FSP)2 + (FTP)2

= (8.1 x 10-6)2 + (9 x 10-7)2
Fnet = 8,15 x 10-6 N (5)
4.5 F
E=
q

8 × 10 -6
E=
3 × 10 -9

E = 2,72 × 103 N • C-1 (3)

4.6.1 Sphere P (1)
4.6.2 Sphere P
Q
n=
qe

- 15 × 10-9
n=
- 1,6 × 10-19

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= 9.38 x 1010 electrons

Mass gained = (90.38 x 1010)(9.11 x 10-31)
= 8.55 x 10-20 kg
[19]
5.1 Q
n=
qe

- 15 × 10-9
n=
- 1,6 × 10-19
= 2.5 x 1013 electrons (3)
5.2 k Q1Q2
FAB =
r2
(9 × 109)(4 × 10-6)(3 × 10-6)
FAB =
(0,2)2
= 2.70 N (3)
5.3 Electric field is a region (in space) where (in which) an (electric) charge
experiences a (electric) force. (2)
5.4 kQ
EAM =
r2
(9 × 109)(4 × 10-6)
EAM =
(0,3)2

= 4,0×105 N • C-1 left

kQ
EBM =
r2
(9 × 109)(3 × 10-6)
EBM =
(0,1)2

= 2,7 × 106 N • C-1right

Enet = EBM + EAM
= 2.7 x 106 + (-4.0 x 105)
= 2.3 x 106 N.C-1 right (5)
5.5 Positive (1)
5.6 (Fnet)2 = (FAD)2 + (FAB)2
(7.69)2 = (FAD)2 + (2.7)2 (3)

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FAD = 7.2 N
k Q1 Q2
FAD =
r2
(9 × 109)(4 × 10-6)(Q)
7,2 =
(0,15 )2

QD = 4,5 × 10-6 C
[17]

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