LAWS OF MOTION

INTRODUCTION
In the previous chapter, we discussed about the motion of particle in terms of position, velocity and
acceleration. We define acceleration of a particle as the rate at which the velocity of a particle
changes. But have you ever thought that why does this change take place? From where does a
particle at rest gets a velocity and why does a moving particle stops.
In this chapter we will study the causes producing or opposing motion. The branch of mechanics
which deals with the study of cause of motion is called Dynamics. In this unit, we shall be studying the
effects produced by the applied forces.
1. Force: Force is a pull or push which tries to change or changes the state of rest or of uniform
motion of a body i.e. force is the cause of translatory motion. Force is a vector quantities.

If body remains at rest, force is trying to change If body moves, force is changing the state of rest
the state of rest. and magnitude increase

When force is parallel to motion, it changes the When force is antiparallel to motion it change the
magnitude and not the direction of motion. magnitude and not the direction of motion

When force acts at an angle to the motion. Both

When force is perpendicular to the velocity. magnitude and direction of motion change and
Direction of motion only changes and motion is motion is non-uniform circular.
uniform circular.
Forces can be mainly classified in following types.
1. Field Forces: These are the forces in which contact between two objects is not necessary. For
example two electric charges separated by a distance exert force on each other, Gravitational
force between two bodies, weight of a body etc. are some other examples of forces of this
category.
2. Contact forces: These are the forces which are exerted on the bodies due to actual contact
between two bodies. There are two types of contact forces (i) Normal contact force (N) (ii)
Parallel contact force (f)
i) Normal contact (N): The force which act Normal to the contact surface is called contact
normal force. It is also called normal reaction (N).
ii) Parallel contact force (f): The force which act parallel to the contant surface is called parallel
contact force. It is also called friction force.
 If normal contact force N and parallel contact force `f’ then

Contact force (F) = N2 + f 2

3. Attachment to another body: When two bodies are not in direct contact with each other, but
are connected with the help of a string, rope or spring. The force exerted by string, rope or
spring are the forces which fall in this category. The forces that come in this group are tension
and spring force.
The student must remember the following points regarding tension.
1. If the string is inextensible, the magnitude of acceleration of any number of masses
connected through string is always same.

2. If the string is light as compared to block such that its mass can be ignored, the tension in
the string is same every where. However, if the string is not very light, tension at its
different points is different.

3. If there is friction between string and pulley, tension is different on different sides of the
pulley, but if there is friction between pulley and string, tension will be same on both sides
of the pulley.

INERTIA
The tendency of body by virtue of which the body tends to remain in its state of rest or uniform motion
is called inertia.
Inertia of a body can be measured by the mass of the body. Heavier the body, greater is the force
required to change its state and hence, greater is its inertia. Inertia can be classified into following
three types.

1. Inertia of Rest: It is the tendency or ability of a body at rest by virtue of which it resists any change
in its state of rest. For example, when a bus at rest starts suddenly, a passenger sitting inside
tends to fall backwards. This is because the bus exerts a force on lower part of his body and the
lower part of his body starts moving with the bus but the upper part tries to remain at rest due to its
inertia of rest.

2. Inertia of Motion: It is the tendency or ability of a body by virtue of which it resists any change in
its state of uniform motion. For example, when a bus stops suddenly, a passenger sitting inside
 tends to fall forward. Again this is because, the bus exerts a force on lower part of is body and the
lower part of his body comes to rest with the bus but the upper part tries to continue its motion due
to inertia of motion.

3. Inertia of direction: It is the tendency or ability of a body by virtue of which it resists any change
its direction of motion. For example, when a bus takes a sharp turn towards right, a passenger
sitting inside the bus, falls towards left. The reason is again the same. The lower portion of the
body of the passenger turns with the bus but the upper portion of his body tends to move in the
initial direction, due to inertia of direction.
NEWTON’S FIRST LAW OF MOTION
According to this law, a body continues to be in its state of rest or of uniform motion along a straight
line, unless it is acted upon by some external force to change the state i.e., that means if net external
force acting on a block is zero then block is remain in equilibrium.
r r r
If � F = 0, then a = 0 or v = 0 or constant

Illustration 1: A block of mass 2kg is kept in a gravitational free space as

shown fig. Three force F1 F2 & F3 are acting on the body
so that block is always in rest. Find magnitude and direction
of force F3 .

r
Solution: The block is in equilibrium SF = 0
uu
r
i.e. SFx = 0, SFY = 0
SFX = 30 + F3 cos q = 0
F3 cos q = -30 . . . . (i)
SFy = 40 + F3 sin q = 40 . . . . (ii)
equation ( i ) ( ii) F32 = ( 30 ) + ( 40 ) � F3 = 50N
2 2 2 2
+ equation
equation (iii) / equation (i).
4 �4 �
tan q = � q = p + tan1 � �
3 �3 �

Exercise 1: What is the origin of various contact forces in the mechanics.

LINEAR MOMENTUM
Before discussing the Newton’s second law of motion, we must understand the concept of linear
momentum. Linear momentum of a body is defined as the quantity of motion contained in the body.
Linear momentum can be measured by the product of mass of the body and its velocity i.e.
Linear momentum = mass x velocity ur
Linear momentum is a vector quantity and is denoted by P . Hence
ur r
P = mv . . . . (1)

The S.I. unit of linear momentum kg ms-1 and its dimensional formula is [M1L1T-1]
NEWTON’S SECOND LAW OF MOTION
According to Newton’s Second Law of Motion, the rate of change of linear momentum is directly
proportional to ther net external force applied on the body. The change takes place in the direction of
applied force. If F is the external force applied on the body in the direction of motion of the body and
ur
P is the linear momentum of the body, then form Newton’s second law of motion,
 ur ur
dP r r dP
�F or F 
dt dt
ur
r dP
or, F=k . . . . (2)
dt
where k is constant of proportionality
Now, if m = mass of the body and
r
vur = velocity
r
of the body
then P = mv . . . . (3)
From (2) and (3)
r
r r � dv r dm � r r dm
F=k ( )
d
dt
mv = K � � m
� dt
+v �
�
dt �
= K(ma + v
dt
)

dm
If mass of block is constant then =0
dt
r r
F = Kma . . . . (4)
r
r dv
If v is constant then =0
dt
r r dm
\ F = Kv . . . . (5)
dt
The value of k is observed to be unity in both S.I. and cgs system of units. Hence using k = 1 in eq.
(4) we get r r
F = ma . . . . (6)
Hence the force can be measured by the product of mass of the body and its acceleration.
If a force of magnitude F produces on acceleration ‘a’ in a body of mass m, then
F
a= . . . . (7)
m
The direction of acceleration is same as the direction of force.
From eq. (6), the dimensional formula for force is
F = ma = [ M] �
�LT 2 �
�
MLT 2 �
F=�
� �

Units of force
The S.I. unit of force is Newton(N), one Newton is force which produces an acceleration of 1 ms -2 in a
body of mass 1kg.
As F = ma
1N = 1 kg x 1 ms-2 = 1 kg ms-2
Some other units of force are
1. dyne = 10-5 N
2. kilogram weight (kg. wt) = 9.8 N
3. gram weight (g.wt) = 980 dyne = 9.8x10-3 N

Illustration 2: A car of mass 500 kg, moving with a speed of 25 ms -1 is stopped in 50 sec, by
applying brakes. Find the force applied on brakes.
Solution: Initial momentum of the car, i.e.
Pi = mvi = 500x25 = 12500 kgms-1
Final momentum of the car, i.e.
Pf = mvf = 500 x 0 = 0
According to Newton’s second law of motion
dP P  Pi 0  12500
F= = f = = 250 N
dt f 50
 negative sign indicates that the applied force is decreasing the momentum.

Illustration 3: A block of metal weighing 2kg is resting on a friction less plane. It is struck by a jet
releasing water at a rate of 1kg/s and at a speed of 5m/s. Calculate the initial
acceleration of the block.
Solution: The water jet striking the block at the rate of 1 kg/s at a speed of 5 m/s will exert a
force on the block
dm
F= v = 5 �1 = 5N  ma = 5 � a = 5/2 = 2.5 m/s2
dt

IMPULSE
From the previous discussions, we can conclude that the state of motion of the body keeps on
changing until the force is acting on the body. Once the force is removed, momentum of the body
becomes, constant.
There are some forces which act for a very short time, but cause a great change in the momentum of
a body, for example
a) Hitting the ball with a bat
b) Firing a gun.
Such forces are called impulsive forces. An impulsive force does not remain constant, but changes
from zero to maximum and then maximum to zero. Hence, it is not possible to measure easily the
value of impulsive force because it changes very rapidly with time. In such cases, we measure the
total effect of force, called impulse.
Impulse can be measured by the line integral of force with respect to time i.e.
r tf r tF dp pF �r dp �
j=� Fdt = � .dt = �dp � F= �
tI dt
ti
pI
� dt �
r uu r uu r
j = p f  pi .... (9)
Hence, impulse can be given by the change in momentum of a body.
Graphically, the impulse is the area under the force-
time (F-t) curve. The S.I. unit of impulse is newton-
second (Ns) and its dimensional formula is same as
linear momentum i.e. [M1L1T-1]

Illustration 4: In the adjoining figure, the variation of force

with time is shown. Calculate the impulse of
the force.
Solution: Impulse can be given by the area of F-t curve.
Hence,
�1 1 �
I = � x1x300 + 2x300 + x1x300 �x10 3 = 0.9 Ns
�2 2 �

NEWTON’S THIRD LAW OF MOTION

According to this law, if a body exerts some force on another, the second body will exert same
amount of force on the first one but in opposite direction. In other word, to every action there is
always an equal and opposite reaction.
r r
If A and B are two bodies and exert forces FAB and FBA respectively on each other, then
r r
F AB = - FBA
Let us understand this with help of some examples.
1. A book placed on table exerts a force on the table in downward
direction which is equal to the weight (w) of the book. Then why
not the book falls down? This is because the table supports the
book by applying an equal force in upward direction called normal
reaction (N).
2. While walking, we exert a force on the earth in backward direction, then how are we able to move
forward? This is because when we push the earth in backward direction, the earth pushes us in
forward direction with equal force.

CONSERVATION OF LINEAR MOMENTUM

According to Newton’s second law of motion,
ur
r dP
F= .
dt
r
If no external force is acting on the body i.e. F = 0, then
ur
dP
=0
dt
ur
or P = cons tan t
Hence, if no external force acts on a body, its linear momentum remains constant or conserved.
The above statement is known as the principle of conservation of linear momentum.
For a system of particles or bodies, the principle of conservation of linear momentum can be stated
as:
r uurIfuno
uu ur external forceuur acts on a system, total linear momentum of the system remains constant.
If P1, P2 , P3 ………….. Pn are the linear momenta respectively of n particles of the system, then
according to principle
r uurof conservation of liner
uu uur uur momentum,
P1, +P2 , + P3 + ………….. Pn = constant .... (10)
Some practical applications of principle of conservation of linear momentum are

1. Recoiling of a gun: When a bullet is fired from a gun, the gun recoils to keep the momentum of
the system (gun and bullet) zero as it was zero before firing.
If m = mass of the bullet, M = mass of gun , v = velocity of the bullet,
V = recoil velocity of the gun, As the gun and bullet both were at rest before firing,
Total momentum before firing = 0, Now, total momentum after firing = mv + MV
According to the principle of conservation of linear momentum, mv + MV = 0
mv
or, V= . . . . (11)
M
Negative sign indicates that the direction of V is opposite to that of v. Also as M >> m, V << v.

2. When a man jumps out of a boat: In this case the boat is slightly pushed away from the shore.
The momentum of the boat is equal and opposite to that of the man in accordance with the law of
conservation of linear momentum.

Illustration 5: A ball moving with a velocity of 6 ms -1 strikes a wall making an angle of 30 o with the
wall. After collision, the ball reflects in opposite direction, making same angle with
the wall. Find (a) Impulse imparted by the wall on the ball (b) If the ball was in
contact with the wall for 0.1 s, find the average force exerted by the wall on the ball.

Solution: The situation is shown in the figure. The choice of axes can be made as shown in
figure.
 ur uu
r
a) If Pi & Pf are initial and final momenta respectively, than from figure, it is clear
that ur
Pi = v sin 30o ˆi + v cos 30 o ˆj
uu
r
and Pf = v sin 30o ˆi + v cos 30o ˆj
Since, impulse develop only normal direction of the wall . so that momentum is not
change along the wall
or, v i cos 30o = v f cos 30o
v i = v f = 6m / s
r ur ur r
\ j = P f  Pi = -2V sin 30i
1
|j| = -2 �6 � = +6MS Vf
r uu r ur 2
I = Pf  Pi = -2V sin30 î
r 1
or, I = 2x6x = 6 Ns
2

b) The average force can be given by

dP I 6
F= = =
dt t 0.1
or, F = 60 N

Illustration 6: A ball of mass 20 kg moving with a velocity 10 ms -1, strikes another stationary ball of
mass 25 kg. If the velocity of the first ball after collision becomes 4 ms -1, in same
direction. Find the velocity of second ball after collision.

Solution: Given m1 = 20g = 0.020 kg, m2 = 25g = 0.025 kg

-1
u1 = 10 ms , u2 = 0, v1 = 4 ms-1, v2 = ?
From the principle of conservation of linear momentum.
m1u1+m2u2 = m1v1 + m2v2  0.020x10 + 0.025x0 = 0.20x4 + 0.025xv2
0.020x0.6
or, v2 = = 0.48 ms 1
0.025

Exercise 2:

(i). A rock of mass m slides with initial velocity v 0 on a horizontal surface. A retarding force F R that
the surface of earth exerts on the rock is proportional to the square root of the instantaneous
velocity of the rock (FR = -kv1/2).
a) Find expressions for the velocity and position of the rock as a function of time.
b) In terms of m, k and v0 find the time when the rock comes to rest.
c) Find the distance of the rock from its starting point when it comes to rest.
(ii) A rubber ball of mass 80g falls from a height of 250cm and rebounds to a height of 90cm. Find
the impulse and average force between the ball and the ground, if the time of contact is 0.1 s
(iii) In a cricket match, a bowler throws the ball of mass m towards the batsman with a velocity v.
the bats man hits the ball in such a way that, it moves with a velocity 2v making an angle of
120o with the initial direction of ball. Find the average force imparted by the batsman, if the time
of contact is 0.1 s.
FREE BODY DIAGRAM
A free body diagram (FBD) is the diagrammatic representation of a
single body or a sub-system of bodies isolated from its
surroundings indicating the magnitudes and directions of all the
forces acting on the body or the sub-system.

For example consider two blocks are arranged as shown in figure.

Suppose we are asked to draw the free body diagram of block of
mass m1. To do so, we will first identify the forces acting on the
block. In this case three forces are acting on the block m 1.

1. Weight of block, m1g acting vertically downwards.

2. Tension, T acting vertically upwards.
3. Normal reaction, N offered by ground on mass m1 acting vertically upwards.
Therefore, the FBD for the block m1 can be drawn as shown in fig (b)

Illustration 7: A block of mass m is attached with two

strings as shown in the figure. Draw the
free body diagram of the block.

Sollution: The forces acting on the block are

i) Weight (mg) of the block
ii) Tensions (T1 and T2) in the strings.
Hence the free body diagram of the block can be shown as

FORCES IN EQUILIBRIUM
If the resultant of all forces acting on an object is zero, there will not be
any change in the motion of the object. Such forces causing no change r
in the motion of the object are said to be in equilibrium. i.e. �F = 0,
or �F x = 0, �Fy = 0, , �F
z =0
It is condition of equilibrium.
Let us understand the equilibrium of an object under two or more
concurrent or coplanar force with the help of example given in previous
section. In Illustration 7 the block is of rest, it means net force on the
block is zero or the block is in equilibrium. Resolving all the forces in
two mutually perpendicular directions (i.e. horizontal and vertical), new
FBD of the block can be drawn as
Now, net force on the block in horizontal direction = T1  T2 cos q
and net force on the block in vertical direction = T2sinq - mg
as the block is in equilibrium, both the components of force must be zero, i.e.
�fx = 0 and �fy = 0
or T1-T2cosq = 0
or T1 = T2cosq
and T2sinq - mg = 0
or T2 sinq = mg.
This method is helpful in solving a number of problems, even if the object is not in equilibrium.
Illustration 8: A particle is in equilibrium under four
concurrent forces in the directions shown in
uu
r uu
r
figure. Find the magnitude of F1 and F2

Solution: As the particle is the equilibrium

\ �Fx = 0 and �Fy = 0
�F x =0
uu
r
\ 10 + 5cos30o - F2 cos 60o = 0
5 3 1
or, 10 +  F2 = 0
2 2
or, F2 = (20+ 5 3 ) N
also, �Fy = 0
or, F1 + 5sin30o – F2sin60o = 0
5 � 5 3�3 15 5 � 5�
or, F1 +  ��
20 + � =0 or, F1 = 10 3 +  =�
10 3 + �
N
2 � 2 � �2 4 2 � 4�

Illustration 9: Three forces are acting on object as shown in the

figure given below. If the particle is in equilibrium,
uu
r uu
r
calculate F1 and F2

Solution: As the object is in equilibrium,

�Fx = 0
or, 8cos45o – F2cos600 = 0.
1
o
8x
or, 8 cos 45 2 N
F2 = = =8 2
cos 60o 1/ 2
Also, �Fy = 0
or, F1 – F2 sin600 – 8sin450 = 0
F1 = F2sin600 + 8sin450

= 8 2x
2
3
+
8
2
(
= 4 2 3 +1 N )
Another method
As forces are in equilibrium, using Lami’s theorem
F1 F2 8
o
= o
=
sin 75 sin135 sin150o

( )
o
sin 75
or, F1 = 8x = 4 2 3 +1 N
sin150o
sin135o
and F2 = 8x = 8 2 N
sin150o
Exercise 3:

(i) Three blocks A,B and B are placed one over the other as shown in
figure. Draw free body diagrams of all the three block

(ii) Two spheres A and B are placed between two vertical walls as shown in
fig. fraction is absent every where. Draw the free body diagrams of
both the spheres

(iii) One side of a block of mass m rest in contact with a smooth vertical
wall and is supported by a string joining a point B on the block to a point
A on the wall Draw free body diagram of the sphere

SOLVING PROBLEMS USING NEWTON’S LAWS OF MOTION

Whatever you have learned, so far in this chapter, have given you basic knowledge to analyze the
accelerations and force experienced by bodies in an interacting system. However, to predict now a
system will move of to identify unknown forces based on observations of motion of the system, this
knowledge must be used in an organized manner.
The steps involved in solving problems using newton’s laws of motion are:

1. Decide the system: The first step is to decide a system on which the laws are to be applied.
The system may be a single particle, a block or a combination of blocks, blocks connected by a
string etc. But remember one thing, while selecting a system, every particle of the system must
have same acceleration.

2. Make a list of all the forces: After deciding the system, make a list of all the forces acting on
the system, while doing so, do not list any force applied by the system.

3. Make a free body diagram: Once you know all the forces acting on the system, make a free
body diagram of the system.

4. Choose the axes: Now choose two mutually perpendicular axes (x and y) in the plane of forces.
We generally chose the x-axis along the direction in which the system is likely to have
acceleration.

5. Write the equations and solve: Write the components of all the forces along x-axis and
equate their sum to the product of mass of system and its acceleration in x-direction.
i.e. �Fx = max . . . . (12)
Now, write the components of all the forces along y-axis and equate their sum to the product of
mass of the system and its acceleration in y-direction, i.e.
�Fy = may . . . . (13)
In general, y component of acceleration is zero, so eq. (12) and (13) can be written as
�Fx = ma . . . . (14)
and �F y =0 .... (15)
By solving these two equations, we can find the unknown quantities.

Note: If the system is in equilibrium, then �F x = 0, �F

y = 0 and �F
z =0
Illustration 10: If two blocks A and B of mass 6 kg and 4 kg
respectively a shown in the figure. A horizontal force of
30N is applied on 6kg block. Find
a) The acceleration of each block
b) The normal reaction between two blocks
Solution: a) Here both the blocks will move with same acceleration in
horizontal direction. Let us consider both the blocks as system.
Net external force on the system is 30N in horizontal direction
and total mass of the system is 10kg (6+4=10kg)
�Fx = max
or, 30 = (6+4)a
or, a = 3 ms-2
Now, b) Free body diagrams of both the
blocks can be shown as
using �Fx = ma x
for the block A, we get
30 – N = 6x3  N = 12 N

Exercise 4:
uu
r uur ur ur
(i) Write down the component of four forces F1 ,F2 F 3 and F4
along ox and oy direction as shown in fig.

(ii) Find the value of the unknown forces if. The given set of forces
shown in fig. are in equilibrium.

HORSE AND CART PROBLEM

A very good example showing the importance of free body diagram and
strategy of solving problems using Newton’s laws is the motion of a cart
pulled by a horse. The horse pulls the cart with a force F H in the forward
direction. According to Newton’s third law, the cart exerts a force say F H
on the horse such that FH = Fc, in backward direction. Therefore the sum
of these forces is zero. Then, why should the cart accelerate forward
Where is the mistake in the argument?
Now try to solve the problem stepwise as discussed in the previous
section. Let us first consider the cart as the system, the free body
diagram of the cart is shown in the figure.
Here, Wc = weight of the cart.
Nc = Normal reaction offered by the ground on the cart.
FH= Force exerted by horse on the cart, and
f = backward force exerted by grounded on the cart (friction)
Here, the force exerted by the cart on horse will not be taken into account, as we discussed in the
previous section.
Now using, �Fx = ma
FH  f = mc a
 FH  f
or, a= .... (i)
mc
where, mc = mass of the cart
Now, let us consider the horse as the system, the horse pushes the
ground by exerting some force on it, so the earth in reaction exerts a force
on the horse. One component of this force will be in forward direction
(say fe) and one will be in upward direction (say F e ). Then free body
diagram of the horse is shown in the figure given below.
Here, NH = normal reaction offered by the ground on the horse
Fc = Force exerted by cart on the horse
WH = Weight of the horse
Using
f F
�Fx = ma , fe  Fc = mH a or, a = e m c .... (ii)
H

Now as the horse and the cart move with same acceleration, from (i) and (ii)
FH  f fe  Fc
= .... (iii)
mc mH
Here, f and fe are self adjustable forces and they so adjust their values that eq. (iii) is always satisfied.

PULLEYS
Problems based on pulleys can be solved by the method discussed in previous section.

Consider two blocks of masses m1 and m2 respectively are connected

with the help of a pulley. For simplicity, we assume that, both the string
and the pulley are light and there is no friction between the pulley and the
string.

Free body diagram of block of mass m1 can be drawn as

Hence, T – m1g = m1a .... (16)

Free body diagram of block of mass m2 can be drawn as

Hence, m2g – T  m2a .... (17)

Solving (16) and (17) we get

m  m1
a= 2 .... (18)
m2 + m1
2m1m2
and T= g .... (19)
m1 + m2
Illustration 11: Consider the situation shown in the adjoining figure. If
the pulley and string are light and string is inextensible.
Find the acceleration of the system a, and tensions
T1 and T2 (take g=10 ms-2).

Solution: let us take the combination of 2kg and 6 kg

mass as system, the FBD can be drawn as
\ 8 g- T1 = 8a . . . . (i)
FBD of 2 kg block can be shown as
\ T1 – 2g = 2a . . . . (ii)
5
solving (i) and (ii) we get a = g = 5 ms-2
10
32
and T1 = g = 32 N
10
Now, FBD of 6 kg block can be shown as
6g – T2 = 6a
or, T2 = 6g – 6a = 60 – 30 = 30 N

Illustration 12: For the arrangement shown in the figure, what

should be the mass of block A, so that the system,
remains in equilibrium. Neglect friction and mass of
the strings and pulleys. Given mass of block
B=mass of block C = 3 kg.
Solution: FBD of block C can be shown as
As the block is at rest
�F = 0
or, mcg – T1 = 0
T = mcg = 3g
Now, FBD of block B is as shown in the figure. The block is at rest
Total force along the plane and perpendicular to the plane is zero.
\ �F|| = 0 , �F^ = 0
or T1 + mBg sin30o – T2 = 0.
or, T2 = T1 + mBg sin30o
1
= 3g + 3gx = 4.5 g
2
and FBD of block A can be given as
T2 – mAg = 0
T
mA = 2
g
or, m = 4.5 kg
Exercise 5:

(i) Three blocks of mass 7kg, 5kg and 3kg

are connected with light and inextensible
strings as shown in figure. If the surface
over which blocks are placed is smooth,
find
a) the acceleration of each block
b) the tension T1 and T2

(ii) A smooth semicircular wire-track of radius R is fixed in a vertical

3R
plane. One end of a massless spring of natural length is
4
attached to the lowest point O of the wire track. A small ring of mass
m which can slide on the track, is attached to the other end of the
spring. The ring is held stationary at point P, such that the spring
makes an angle of 60o with the vertical. The spring constant of the
mg
spring is k = . The instant when the ring is released, find the
R
tangential acceleration of the ring and the normal reaction.

(iii) Three blocks are connected by strings and the

system is placed on a frictionless table. If the
system is pulled to right with a force at T3 = 60 N,
T1 1
prove that = .
T2 3

CONSTRAINT EQUATIONS
Consider the arrangement shown in the given figure. Now in this
case, pulley P2 itself is moving, also all the blocks have different
accelerations, hence the accelerations of blocks cannot be
calculated by direct means. For calculating the accelerations of
blocks we write the equations relating the lengths of strings called
constraint equations.
To do so, we first mark the displacements of all the blocks and
pulleys from a fixed line and (from fixed refreeze ) then write the
equations relating them.

In the figure given above,

x1 = distance of mass m1 from the fixed line.
x2 = distance of mass m2 from the fixed line.
x3 = distance of mass m3 from the fixed line.
x4 = distance of pulley P2 from the fixed line.
It is clear from the figure that,
x1+x4 = constant = l1 (length of first string) .... (i)
And (x2-x4) + (x3-x4) = constant = l2 (length of second string)
or, x2+x3 – 2x4 = l2 .... (ii)
Differentiating above two equations we get
dx1 dx 4
+ =0
dt dt
 or, v1+v4 = 0 .... (ii)
and v2+v3-2v4 = 0 .... (iv)
Differentiating the two equations again we get
a1+a4 = 0 .... (v)
a2+a3-2a4 = 0 .... (vi)
as a4 = -a1
a2 + a3 + 2a1 = 0
This relation is called the constraint relation between a1, a2 and a3.

Note: Number of constraint equations will be equal to the number of strings present in the system.

INERTIAL AND NON-INERTIAL FRAME OF REFERENCE

As discussed in previous chapter, a system of coordinate axes attached to an observer is called frame
of reference. The frame of references is of two types.
1. Inertial frame of reference: A frame of reference which is either stationary or moving with a
constant speed is called inertial frame of reference. An inertial frame of reference can also be
defined as the frame of reference in which Newton’s laws hold good.
2. Non-inertial frame of reference: An accelerating frame of reference is called a non inertial
frame of reference. Newton’s laws are not valid in a non-inertial frame of reference. Let us
understand this with the help of an example.
Consider a ball is placed on the floor of a train. Now if the train
starts moving with an acceleration a0, what will happen to the ball?
Will the ball remain at rest?
Observations have shown that, the ball will move in a
direction opposite to the motion of train with acceleration a 0, if floor
of train is smooth.
From this observation, we can conclude that a non-inertial frame moving with acceleration a 0, exerts a
force on the object inside it. If the mass of the object is m, force exerted on it by the non inertial frame
is given by ma0 and is called pseudo force.
Newton’s second law can be applied in an non-inertial frame of reference, but pseudo force should
also be taken into account.
Suppose an object of mass m is placed inside an elevator moving upward with an acceleration a 0.

If seen from the ground, the block is moving upward with an

acceleration a0, the free body diagram of the black with respect to
ground is shown in the figure given below.
Using,
�F = ma
we get

N – mg = ma0.
or N = mg + ma0 = m(g + a0) .... (i)

But if we draw the free body diagram of the block with respect to the
elevator, it can be shown as in the figure.
As the block is at rest, with respect to the elevator, the forces are in
equilibrium, hence using �F = 0 we get N’ – mg = 0 or, N’ = mg
Since, N’  N, either equation (i) or equation (ii) is wrong. Now, how can we predict that which of the
equations is wrong? What mistake has been done by us?

The answer is clear, the elevator, is a non-inertial frame of

reference and as discussed previously, while dealing with a non-
inertial frame, pseudo force must be taken into account. As the
elevator is accelerating upwards, pseudo force will act downwards,
hence the actual free body diagram of the situation can be drawn
as in the given figure.
Now, using
�F = 0
we get, N = mg – mao= 0
or, N1 = mg + ma0
N1 = m(g + a0)
Here it is clear that N’ = N.

Hence, when we draw the FBD of a mass, with respect to an inertial frame of reference, we apply only
real forces, but when we drawn the FBD of a mass with respect to a non-inertial rframer of reference,
pseudo force in addition to the real forces must be applied to make the equation F = ma , valid in this
frame also.

Illustration 13: In the situation shown in the given figure,

if all the surfaces are smooth, find the
force F such that the block remains
stationary with respect to wedge.

Solution: FBD of the block with respect to the wedge is

shown in the given figure where FP is the
pseudo force. As the block is in equilibrium.
�Fx = 0 and �Fy = 0
or, ma = Nsinq . . . . (i)
and mg = Ncosq . . . . (ii)
Solving (i) and (ii) we get
a = gtanq
as both the blocks move with same
acceleration
F = (M+m)a = (M+m)gtanq

Note: A rotating frame of reference is also a non-inertial frame of reference.

Exercise 6:
(i) In the situation shown in figure, if all pulleys and ropes are mass less
and smooth, find the acceleration of 5 kg mass.

(ii) Two pulleys of masses 16 kg and 12 kg are connected by a fine string

hanging over a fixed pulley. Over the16 kg pulley is hung a fine string with
masses 4 kg and 12 kg and over the 12 kg pulley is hung another fine string
with masses 6 kg and M. For what value of M will the string over the fixed
pulley remains stationary. (All pulleys are frictionless)

(iii) Two blocks of mass 3kg and 5 kg are arranged as shown in

figure. Both the pulleys and string are light and the surfaces
are smooth.
a) Find the acceleration of 3 kg block.
b) Find the tension in the string
(g = 10 ms-2)

(iv) Find the acceleration of the blocks A and B in the situation shown
in figure

(v) In the arrangement shown in the adjoining figure

m1 + m2 > m3 + m4 .
If the lower string keeping the system in equilibrium is burnt, the
masses start moving. Find the acceleration of masses if the
thread are weightless and inextensible. The springs are also
weightless and the mass of the pulley is negligible.

Apparent weight of a body in an elevator/lift

When a person stands on a weighing machine, the person exerts a force on the machine which is
equal to the weight of the person (i.e mg). In response, the machine offers a normal reaction N given
by the reading of the weighing machine. This reaction, exerted by the surface of contact of the person
is the apparent weight of the person.
As discussed in the previous section, if the elevator is moving with some acceleration, a pseudo force
starts acting on the person and the normal reaction is different from the weight of the person and
hence apparent weight differs from the actual weight. Let us discuss some cases.
1. When the elevator is at rest or in uniform motion.
In this case, a = 0. Hence, there is no pseudo force (i.e.
the frame is inertial)
As the person is at rest with respect to the elevator,
�F = 0
or N – mg = 0
or, N = mg ....
Hence, real weight is equal to the apparent weight.

2. When the elevator is accelerating upwards.

This case was discussed in the previous section,
here N = m(g+a) . . . . (21)
N > mg
Hence, apparent weight is more than the real weight.
3. When the elevator is accelerating downwards
In this case, the acceleration of the elevator = a
From the FBD shown in the figure
FP + N = mg
Where FP = pseudo force = ma
N = mg – ma
= m (g – a) . . . . (22)
or N < mg
Hence, apparent weight is less than the real weight.
If the lift falls freely under gravity then a=g or N = m (g-g) = 0
Hence the body inside the lift feels weightlessness.
If the downward acceleration of the lift becomes greater than g, i.e. a > g
Hence from eq. (22)
N = m(g-a) = -ve
Hence, the weight of the person becomes negative and the person will rise from the floor or the lift
and stick to the ceiling of the lift.

Illustration 14: An 80 kg man stands in a lift. Find its apparent weight if the lift is moving
a) upward with an acceleration of 2 ms -2.
b) downward with an acceleration of 2 ms -2.

Solution: a) When the elevator is going up, N = m(g+a)

Given that, m = 30 kg a = 2 ms-2 g = 9.8 ms-2
\ N = 80x11.8 = 944 N
b) When the elevator is going down
N = m (g-a) = 80 (9.8 – 2) ; = 80 x 7.8 = 624 N

Exercise 7:
(i) If all the surfaces in the given figure are
frictionless. Find the magnitude of F so that
the block remains stationary with respect to
wedge

(ii) A pendulum is hanging from the ceiling of a train. If the train is moving with a horizontal
acceleration 16.97 ms-2. Find the angle made by bob with the vertical
 (iii) A particle slides down a smooth inclined plane of elevation 45 0,
fixed in an elevator going up with an acceleration of 4ms -2.
The base of the incline is 14 m long. Find the time taken by
the particle of mass 2kg, to reach the bottom. (take g=10 ms -2)

(iv) A monkey A of mass 6kg is climbing up a rope. Another monkey B of mass 4kg is holding on to
the tail of the monkey A. If A can tolerate a tension of 52N in its tail, what force should it apply
on the rope in order to carry the monkey B with it? Take g = 10ms -2
(v) A monkey of mass 40 kg climbs on a rope which can stand a maximum tension of 600 N. In
which of the following cases will the rope break. The monkey
a) climbs up with an acceleration of 6ms-2
b) climbs down with an acceleration of 4 ms-2
c) climbs up with a uniform speed of 5 ms-1
d) falls down the rope nearly under gravity.

SYSTEM OF VARIABLE MASS – A ROCKET

So far we have dealt with the system in which the total mass of the system remained constant at all
the time. No mass had been added to or removed from the system. Such systems are called closed
systems. However, some times we deal with a system, in which the mass of the system does not
remains constant. A very common example of such type of systems is a rocket. Most of the mass of
a rocket on its launching pad is of fuel, all of which will eventually be burned and ejected from the
nozzle of the rocket engine.
To handle the variation of mass of the rocket as the rocket accelerates, we must apply Newton’s
second law, not to rocket alone but to the rocket and its ejected combustion products taken together,
as the mass of this system does not change, as the rocket accelerates.
As the rocket accelerates in deep space, the gravitational and atmospheric drag forces acting on it are
negligible and do not effect the motion of the rocket.
r
Consider at any interval of time t, the rocket has a total mass m and a velocity v , what do we observe
in an extremely short interval dt?
After a time interval dt, the rocket has ejected uu
ar small
amount of burned fuel dm at a velocity say v g w.r.t.
ground and the velocity of the rocket has increased by a
small amount dv. According to the principle of
conservation of linear momentum,
r r r r
( )
mv = ( m  dm ) v + dv  dm v g
r r r r r r
m v = m v  dm v + m dv  dm dv  dm v g
r r uur r
or, m dv = dm v + dm v g + dm dv .... (23)
as both dm and dv are extremely small, so their product can be neglected.
Therefore, eq. (23) becomes,
r r uur
mdv = dm v + v g ( ) ..... (24)
If velocity of burned gas with respect to rocket v gr .
r r r
Then v gr = v g  v r = - v g  v =  ( v g + v ) ..... (25)
From equation (24) and (25), we have
r r
mdv = v gr dm .... (26)
r
dv r dm
Dividing both sides by dt we get m = v gr
dt dt
 r dm
or, ma = v gr .... (27)
dt
where a is the acceleration of the rocket. Negative sign of the acceleration shows that, the
acceleration of the rocket is directed opposite to the velocity of gases with respect to rocket.
r dm
Here, force F = ma = v gr
dt
is also called up thrust of the rocket.
r r dm
from eq (26) dv =  v gr .... (28)
m
If m0 is the initial mass of the rocket and initial velocity of the rocket is zero, then at any time, the
velocity of rocket can be found in terms of its mass by integrating eq. (28) i.e.
r
v r r m dm
�
0
dv = v gr �
mo m

(Velocity of burned fuel with respect to go rocket is always constant)

r r m
or, v = v gr loge
mo
r r mo
v = v gr loge .... (29)
m
For numerical problems eq. (29) can be rewritten as
r r m
v = 2.303v gr log10 o . . . . (30)
m
mo
If all fuel is burned out then m = mc (mass of container) then v= v gr loge is called burnt out
mc
velocity of rocket.
The speed attained by the rocket when whole of the fuel of the rocket has been burnt is called burnt
out speed of the rocket and can be given by
uur r m r m
v b = v gr loge o = 2.303v rel log1o o
m m

Illustration15: A rocket of initial mass 5000 kg ejects mass at constant rate of 15 kg/s with constant
relative speed of 10 km/s. What is the acceleration of the rocket one minute after
blast? Also find the velocity of the rocket at that time.
Solution: Mass of the fuel ejected in one minute,
dm
= xt = 15 x 60 = 900 kg
dt
\ Remaining mass of rocket after one minute of the blast
m = 5000 – 900 = 4100 kg
r
r r dm r v rel dm �10x103 �
Now using, ma =  v rel or, a =  . = � �( 15 ) = 26.59 ms-2
dt m dt �4100 �
r r m
v = 2.303v rel log10 o
m
r 5000
we get, v = 2.303x10x10 log10
3 4
= 2.303x10 x log30 1.239
4100
= 2,303x104x0.0860 = 1.98 kms-1
Note: In the above example we have taken dm negative because the mass of the system is
decreasing.

Exercise 8:
(i) Calculate the ratio m0/m for a rocket to attain the escape velocity of 11.2 kms -1 after
starting from rest, when maximum exhaust velocity of gases is 1.6 kms-1
 ANSWERS TO EXERCISES

Exercise 2. (i) 0.896 Ns, 8.96 N

(ii) 10 7 mv N
2
� kt � vkt 2 k 2 t2
(iii) a) v = � v o  , s = v t  +
2m �
o
� � 2m 12m2
2mv o1/ 2 2mv 3 / 2
b) t = c) s = s
k 3k

Exercise 4. (i) F1x = 2 3N, F2y = 2N, F3x = 0, F4x = 4N, F1y = 2N, F2y = 2 3N,
F3y = 6N, F4y = 0
(ii) W

Exercise 5. (i) (a) 2ms2, 2ms2, 2ms2 (b) 24 N, 14 N

5 3 3
(ii) a1 = g , N = mg
8 8

3
Exercise 6. (i) g
8
(ii) 12 kg
12
(iii) a) g , b) 8.82 N
17
2g g
(iv) aA = , aB =
5 5

m1 + m2  m3  m4
(v) a1 = a2 = a3 = 0, a4 = g
m4
Exercise 7. (i) 147 N
(ii) 60o
(iii) 2s
(iv) 100 N to 130 n
(v) a) only

Exercise 8. (i) 1096

 FORMULAE AND CONCEPTS AT A GLANCE

1. For equilibrium
ur
�rF = 0, i.e. �Fx = 0, �Fy = 0, �F z =0
2. Momentum P = mv
r r
r dp d r r dm
3. Force F = =
dt dt
( )
mv = v
dt
+m
dv
dt
r r dm
If velocity is constant and mass is varies with time then F = v
r dt
r dv r
If m is constant and velocity is varies with time then F = m = ma .
r dt
4. Impulse J = dp = change in momentum = m (v  u)
t2

J= �
Fdt (when force is variable)
t1

= F.t (when force is constant)

dm
5. a) Thrust on the rocket F = u t
dt
Where u = exhaust speed of the burnt gases
dm
= rate of burning of fuel
dt
b) Acceleration of rocket at any instant
upthrust - weight
a=
mass
6. Apparent weight of mass in lift
i) R = m(g+a), where a is upward acceleration of the lift.
ii) R = m(ga), where a is downward acceleration of the lift.
iii) In free fall under the action of gravity a = g
R=0
i.e. apparent weight of the body becomes zero or the body becomes weightless
iv) When lift is at rest or moving uniformly
a = 0  R = mg.
 SOLVED PROBLEMS

Subjective

Prob 1. In the adjoining figure, two blocks of mass 7kg and 3 kg are
attached by a inextensible light string. If both the blocks are pulled
vertically upwards by a force F (=150N), find
a) the acceleration of the blocks
b) tension in the string (take g = 10 ms-2)

Sol: a) If ‘a’ be the acceleration of blocks then, net force = (m 1+m2)a

F – 7g – 3g = (7+3)a
or, 150 – 70 – 30 = 10a
or, 10a = 50 or, a = 5 ms-2
b) Free body diagram of 3 kg block can be shown as
Net force on 3kg block = 3a
or, T – 3g = 3x5
or, T = 30+15 = 45 N

Prob 2. Two blocks of mass m1 and m2 are released from rest over a smooth inclined plane of
inclination q. What is the normal force between the two blocks?

Sol: The situation is shown in the given figure. Let us first

consider the two blocks as the system, the free
body diagram can be shown as Here, N is the normal
force between the surface and the blocks. Net force
on the system i.e. (m1+m2)a = (m1+m2)gsinq or,
a = g sinq
Therefore, acceleration of each block is gsinq.
Now considering block of mass mg as system, free
body diagram can be shown as

Here, N2 is the normal force between the surface and

the block and N is the normal force between the blocks.
\ m2a = m2gsinq - N ; but a = gsinq
\ m2gsinq = m2gsinq - N or, N = 0.

Prob 3. In the situation shown in figure, find the acceleration of the

blocks A and B. Masses of blocks A and B are 5 kg and 8 kg
respectively.
Sol: Net force on block A i.e. 5 a1 = 5g – T1 . . . . (i)
and net force on B i.e. 8a2 = T2 - 8g . . . . (ii)
It is clear from the figure that T2 =2T1 and a1 = 2a2
Therefore, Equations (i) and (ii) becomes,
10a2 = 5g – T1 . . . . (iii)
and 8a2 = 2T1 – 8g . . . . (iv)

g
solving (iii) and (iv) we get a2 =
14
 g
as a1 = 2a 2 =
7

Prob 4. Two blocks A and B of mass 2kg and 4 kg respectively are

connected by a string, passing over a light frictionless pulley.
Both the blocks are resting on a horizontal floor and the pulley
is held such that the string remains just that acting on the pulley
along vertically upward direction. Calculate
a) Velocity of A when B loses contact with the floor.
b) Height raised by the pulley up to that instant (take g=10 ms -2)

Sol: a) Let T be the tension in the string, then 2T = 40t or T = 20t Newton
Let the block A loses its constant with the floor at time t = t 1. This happens when the tension
the string becomes equal to the weight of A.
Thus, T = mg or 20t1 = 2x10 or t1 = 1s
Similarly, if the block B losses its contact with the floor at time t = t 2 then
20t2 = 4x10 or t2 = 2s
Let ‘a’ be the acceleration of block a in upward direction at any instant of time ‘t’ such that t
dv
 t1, then 20t – 2x10 = 2xa or, a = 10 t – 10 or, = 10t  10 or, dv = 10 (t-1)dt
dt
v t
Integrating this expression, we get �dv = 10�( t  1) dt
0 0

or, v = 5t2 – 10t + 5 …………… (1) At t = t2 = 2s, v = 2 0 – 20 + 5 = 5 ms-2

dy
b) From eq. (1) v = 5t2 – 10t + 5 or,
dt
= 5t 2  10t + 5 ( )
dy = 5t 2  10t + 5 dt

where y is the vertical displacement of blocks at time t(  t1) on integrating, we have

2 2
�t 3 � �t2 � 5
( ) � + 5 [ t]1 = 3 m
n 2 2
� = �  + 
2
dy 5t 20t 5 dt h = 5 � � 10 �
�3 � �2 �
0 1
1 1

h 5
\ Height raised by the pulley up to that instant = = m
2 6

Prob 5. Find the acceleration of the two masses as

shown in figure. The pulleys are light and
frictionless and strings are light and inextensible.
Sol: Let x1 and x2 be the distances of 5 kg and 2 kg
mass respectively from fixed line and x be the
distance between lower pulleys and 5 kg mass
then
5x1-4x+x = constant = l . . . . (1)
differentiating both sides w.r.t. t, we get
dx dx dx 2
5 1 4 + =0
dt dt dt
5v1+v2 = 0 . . . . (2)
differentiating both sides again w.r.t. t, we get
dv dv
or, 5 1 + 2 = 0 or, 5a1+a2 = 0  a2 = - 5a1
dt dt
where, a1 and a2 are accelerations of 5 kg and 2 kg mass respectively
If T is the tension in the string.
Net downward force on 5 kg mass, i.e.
5a1 = 5g – 5T  a1 = g – T .... (3)
Net downward force on 2kg mass i.e.
 2a2 = 2g – T
as a2 = -5a1
-20a1 = 2g – T  10a1 = T – 2g .... (4)
solving eq. (3) and (4) we get
11a1 =  g

Prob 6. A bomb of mass 3kg, initially at rest, explodes and breaks into three fragments of masses in
the ratio 1 : 1 : 3. The two pieces of equal mass fly off perpendicular to each other with a
speed of 20 ms-1 each. What will be the velocity of the heavier fragment?

Sol: Let m1, m2 and m3 be the masses of the three fragments,

1 3
then m1 = m2 = x3 = kg
5 5
3 9
and m3 = x3 = kg
5 5
Assuming the first particle to move alonguurpositive
uur x-direction
uur
and second along positive y-direction, if v1 , v 2 and v 3 are
velocities
uur of the three
uur fragments
r uurthen
v1 = 20iˆ , v 2 = 20j , v 3 = ?
As liner momentum of the system is zero before explosion, according to the principle of
conservation of linear momentum,
uu
r uur totaluurlinear momentum must be zero just after the
explosion also, i.e. m1 v1 + m2 v 2 + m3 v 3 = 0
9 uur uur
or,
3
5
3
x20iˆ + x20 ˆj + xv 3 = 0
5 5
v3 =  (3
)
20 ˆ ˆ
i + j ms1

Therefore, the velocity of third fragment is

20 2 1 �20 / 3 � 5 p
v3 = ms1 making an angle q = tan � �=
3 �20 / 3 � 4
with +ve direction of the x-axis

Prob 7. In the adjoining figure, both the pulleys are light and frictionless. Find
the mass M so that it remains at rest.
Sol: Free body diagram for the block of mass M can be shown as
If the block remains stationary,
Net force on the block = 0
or, T1 = Mg
Tension T2 in the second string can be given by
2x3x5 15
T2 = g= g
3+5 4
It is clear from the figure that
T1 = 2T2
15
or, Mg = 2x g
4
15
or, M= kg = 7.5 kg
2

Prob 8. A block of mass 25 kg is raised by a 50 kg man in

different ways as shown in the figure. What is the
action on the floor by the man in the two cases? If
the floor yields to a normal forces of 700N, which
mode should the man adopt to lift the block, without
the floor yielding? Mode1 Mode2
Sol: Action on the floor by the man in mole 1 ; N1 = m1g + m2g = (30 + 25) x 9.8 = 735 N
Action of the floor by the man in mole 2 ; N2 = m1g – m2g = (50 – 25) x 9.8 = 245 N
Since the action by the man on the floor is case 2 is less than case 1, and since the floor
can yield to a normal force of 700N, the man should prefer mode 2 to lift the block.

Prob 9. A ball of mass 0.2 kg is thrown against a wall. It deflects by striking the corner of wall
making an angle 450 with its initial direction without change in its speed. If the speed of the
ball is 25 ms-1, find the impulse exerted by the ball on the wall.

Sol: Let the initial direction of motion of ball is taken as x-axis, then the velocity of ball before
striking the wall, i.e.
uu
r
v i = v i = 25iˆ
ˆ
and
r velocity of the ball after striking the wall, i.e.
uu
v f = v cos 45 i + v sin 45o ˆj
oˆ

25 ˆ 25 ˆ
= i+ j
2 2
r uur ur uu
r uu
r
Now, Impulse I = PA  Pi = mv f  mv i
� ˆ 25 ˆ 25 ˆ �
25i 
= 0.2 x � i j�
� 2 2 �
r 0.2x25
( )
� 2  1 ˆi  ˆj �= 0.2x25 ( )
2
I= 2  1 + 12 = 3.83 Ns
2 � � 2

Prob 10. A machine gun has a mass of 10 kg. It fires 40g bullets at the rate of 10 bullets per second
with a speed of 300 m/s. What force must be applied to the gun to keep it in position?
Sol: Here, mass of gun, M= 10kg; Mass of bullet i.e. m = 40 g
Total mass of bullets fired in 1 sec = 10 x m = 400 g
dp 400x103 x300
From Newton’s second law of motion, F = = = 120N
dt 1

Objective

Prob 1. A body of mass m has its position x at a time t expressed by the equation x = 3t 3 / 2 + 2t 1/ 2 .
The instantaneous force on the body is proportional to
(A) t o (B) t t / 2
(C) t (D) t 3 / 2
Sol: (B) Given that x = 3t 3 / 2 + 2t 1/ 2 . Hence velocity
dx 9 1/ 2
V= = t  t 3 / 2 and acceleration
dt 2
dv 9 1/ 2 3 5 / 2
a= = t + t
dt 4 2
i.e. a �t 1/ 2 , since t 5 / 2 is a small quantity in comparison to t 1/ 2 and it can be neglected.
Prob 2. A man slides down a light rope whose breaking strength is n times has weight. What
should be his maximum acceleration so that the rope just not breaks.
(A) g(1-n) (B) ng
g g
(C) (D)
1+n 1n
Sol: (A)Let man slides down with acceleration `a’ then. tension in the string T = m(g-a)
If t = nmg.
nmg = mg-ma � a = (1-n)g
Prob 3. A small block B is placed on block A of mass 5kg and
length 20cm. A constant horizontal force of 10N is applied
on block A. If all the surfaces are assumed friction less
and block B is the right end of block A then time in which
block B separates from A is
(A) 0.2 s (B) 0.45 s
(C) 0.39 s (D) 0.32 s
Sol: (B) Given that, mA = 5kg, L A = 20cm ,
From FBD of block A and block B \ acceleration of block B w.r.to A
mB a
aBf = = a = 2m / s2
mB
1 2
From equation S= ut + at
2
1 20 4.5
20 �102 0 + �x �t 2 � t = = = 0.45S
2 10 10

Prob 4. A balloon has 8 gram of air. A small hole is pierced into it. The air escapes at a uniform
rate of 7cm/s. If the balloon shrinks in 5.65. then the average force acting on the balloon is
(A) 10 4 N (B) 10 2 dyne
6
(C) 10 N (D) 56 dyne

Sol: (A) Given that

mi : = 8g, t = 5.6s
dm mi 8 10
\ = = = g/s
dt t 5.6 7
dm 10
\ Average force acting on the balloon = V = �7 = 10 dyne = 10 4 N
dt 7

Prob 5. If M is mass of rocked, r is rate of ejection of gases and u is velocity of gases with respect
dv
to rocked then acceleration of the rocket after time t is equal to
dt
ru M  rt
(A) (B)
M  rt ru
ru ru
(C) (D)
M + rt M

Sol: (A) We known,

Force excerpt by gases on rocket at any time t is
dm
F= .u
dt
m.a. = ru
mass of rocket after time t m = M - rt
ru
\ a=
M  rt
Prob 6. In the arrangement shown in fig. If a force 2mg is applied at the free
end of the rope, the mass m will ascent with an acceleration of
g g
(A) b (B)
3 2
(C) g (D) 2g

Sol: (C) Total mass of the system = m

Net force of the system = 2mg- mg (F an a my behave as opposite force)
 Net force mg
\ acceleration (a) = = =g
Total mass m

Prob 7. In fig the position time graph of a particle of mass 0.1kg is

shown. The impulse at t=2 sec is
1 1
A) 0.2 kgms (B) 0.02 kgms
1
(C) 0.1 kgms (D) 0.4 kg ms1

Sol: (A) Since position Vs time graph is a straight line for time 0 to 2s. So that particle move
with constant velocity V.
After t = 2, velocity of particle is zero
\ Impulse = change in momentum
= 0.1 (0-2) = 0.2 kg ms1

Prob 8. In fig. block A is released from rest, when spring is at its natural
unscratched length. For block B of mass M to leave contact with the
ground at some stage. The minimum mass A must be
M
(A) 2M (B)
2
(C) M (D) cannot say

Sol: (B) Let mass of block A is m and extension of the string is x when block `B’ leave contact
with the ground
\ kx = MB g = Mg (1)
\ Change in P.E. of block A = mgx
1
Energy store in the spring = kx 2
2
For minimum mass of A. Velocity of block A at final position must be zero.
1
\ mgx = kx 2
2
1 Mg
mg = kx = (from equations)
2 2
m = M/2

Prob 9. A bullet is fired from a gun. The force on the bullet is given by F = 600 - 2 �105 t, where F
is in Newton and t is in seconds. The force on the bullet becomes zero as soon as it leaves
the burred. What is the average impulse imparted to the bullet ?
(A) g NS (B) Zero
(C) 0.9 NS (D) 1.8NS

Sol: (C) Give that

F = 600 – 2 �105 t
600
When F = 0, then t =
2 �105
600/ 2 �105 = �
F dt
0
= [600 t - 105 t]600
o
/ 2�
10 5

�
600 �600 105 �600 �600 � 360000 1 1
= � 5
 5 5 �=
[1  ] = 1.8 � = 0.9 NS
� 2 �10 2 �10 �2 �10 � 2 �10 5
2 2
Prob 10. A ball of mass m is thrown upwards with a velocity V. If air exerts an average resisting
force F1 . Then velocity with which the ball return to the thrower is
mg F
(A) V (B) V
mg + F mg + F
mg  F mg + F
(C) V (D) V
mg + F mg

Sol: (C) For upward motion

Net retarding force mg + F
Ma = mg + F
mg + F
a=
m
V2 V 2m
\ Distance S = =
2a 2(mg + F)
For downward motion
Net force = mg – F
mg  F
a’ =
m
2 2
V/ v / �m
Distance S’ = =
2a' 2(mg  F)
As S = S /
2
V 2m V/ m
\ =
2(mg + F) 2(mg  F)
mg  F
V/ = V
mg + F
 ASSIGNMENT

Subjective
Very short answer type questions.
1. A sail boat cannot be propelled by blowing air on to the sail from a fan in the same boat why?
2. A man sitting in a chair cannot lift the chair by pulling its arms. Why?
3. The dust particles can be removed from the carpet by beating it. What principle is involved
here?
4. Passengers in a moving bus tend to fall forward when the bus stops suddenly why?
5. “A cricket ball gets deformed when it is hit continuously by bat” why?
6. Why does a cricketer pulls his hands backwards while taking a catch?
7. Shock absorbers are fixed to vehicles. Why?
8. Calculate resultant acceleration when two forces of magnitude 13N and 5N which are
perpendicular to each other act on a 2kg mass.
9. Three forces of magnitude F are acting along the directions North, East and West on a body.
What is magnitude and direction of resultant force?
10. State law of conservation of linear momentum.
11. Distinguish between conservative and nonconservative forces. Give one example each.
Short answer type questions.
1. State Newton’s first law of motion and explain its significance.
2. State Newton’s third law of motion.
3. If action and reaction are always equal and opposite, explain how a cart drawn by a horse
moves forward.
4. Explain the concepts of inertia and mass.
5. Define impulse. State its SI units.
Long answer type questions.
1. State and explain Newton’s Second law of motion and derive the relation F = ma. Show that
Newton’s first law of motion is contained in the second law of motion.
2. Explain the motion of an object suspended by a cable that passes over a pulley and
horizontally connected at the other end to a second object that rests on a smooth horizontal
table. Derive expressions for tension in the cable and acceleration of the objects.
3. Consider two objects of different masses connected by a cable passing over a massless and
frictionless pulley. Derive expressions of the tension in the cable and acceleration of the
objects.
4. Consider two block A and B that are having masses m 1 and m2 respectively and that are in
contact with each other on a frictionless horizontal surface. A force F is applied horizontally
on the block A of mass m1. Find the acceleration of the system and the mutual force of
interaction between A and B.
5. Discuss how apparent weight of a person in a lift changes when it is (a) moving up with
acceleration (b) moving down with acceleration (c) moving with uniform velocity (d) when it is
stationary.
Numerical problems.
1. A ball of mass 90 kg moving horizontally with a velocity 20 ms 1 is hit by a bat and gets
rebound in exactly opposite direction and moves with a velocity 30 ms 1. The impact of the
bat on the ball lasts for 0.05 s. Find the force exerted by the bat on the ball.
2. Due to the application of a force on a body of mass 200 kg that is initially at rest, the body
moves with an acceleration of 20 ms2 in the direction of the force. Find the magnitude of the
force.
3. A force applied for a duration of 5s on a body o mass 5 kg that is at rest. As a result the body
acquires a velocity of 2 ms1. Find the magnitude of the force applied.
4. A vehicle of mass 120 kg is moving with a velocity of 90 kmph. What force should be applied
on the vehicle to stop it in 10s.
5. A vehicle of mass 20 kg is moving with a velocity of 4 ms 1. Find the magnitude of the force
that is to be applied on the vehicle so that the vehicle will have a velocity of 1ms 1 after
travelling a distance of 30 m.

6. A force is applied on a body of mass 0.9 kg that is at rest. The force is applied for a duration
of 10s and as a result the body covers a distance of 240 m. Find the magnitude of the force.
7. A block A of mass 8kg is placed on a frictionless table. A thread tied to it passes over a
frictionless pulley and carries a body B of mass 2kg at the other end. Find he acceleration of
the system and tension in the thread (giving g = 10 ms1).
8. Figure shows a weight of 20 kg suspended at one end of cord and
weight of 30kg applied at other end of the cord passing over a
pulley. Neglecting weight of rope and pulley find the tension in the
cord and acceleration of the system (g = 10 ms2)

9. Two blocks are in contact on a frictionless table. A horizontal

force is applied to one block as shown in fig. If m 1 = 10 kg and
m2 = 5 kg and F = 15 N. Find the force of contact between the
two bodies.
10. What will be the force of contact if the same force is applied on the mass m 2 in the above
problem.
11. A man wants to draw a bucketful of water in two different ways. As shown in figure ‘a he
draws the bucket directly and as shown in figure (b) he uses a pulley. The weight of the man
is 50 kg and the bucket with full water weighs 25 kg. Find the action on the floor by the man
in the two cases (g = 10 ms2)
12. The pulley arrangements of fig (A) and (B)
are identical. The mass of the rope is
negligible. In (A) the mass m is lifted up by
attaching a mass 2m to the other end of
the rope. In (B) m is lifted up by pulling the
other end of the rope with a constant
downward force F = 2mg. In which case
the acceleration of ‘m’ is more?
13. Three equal weights of mass m each are hanging on a string passing over a fixed pulley as
shown in figure. What are the tensions in the string connecting weights A to B and B to C?
14. A body of mass 100 kg moving horizontally with a velocity of 30 ms 1 moves in opposite
direction with a velocity of 20 ms1 after hitting a wall. Calculating the value of the impulse.
15. A man of 60 kg mass is in a lift. Find the apparent weight of the man when the lift is moving
(a) up with uniform acceleration 4 ms2 (b) down with uniform velocity 2 ms1.
16. A vehicle of mass 1000 kg is moving with a velocity of 30 ms 1. It is brought to rest by a
retarding force. Find the distance moved by the vehicle before coming to rest, if the sliding
friction between the tyres and road is 6000 N.
17. An engine of power 1.5 MW applies a force for 6 minutes on a train moving with a velocity of
10 ms1. If there is no friction and the velocity attained is 25 ms 1, find the mass of the train.
Objective

Level  I
1. Rocket works on the principle of conservation of
(A) mass (B) energy
(C) linear momentum (D) none of these
2. A jar containing water is placed in a train accelerating from left to right. Which of the following
shows the water level in the jar correctly?

3. A man is at rest in the middle of a pond on perfectly smooth ice. He can get himself to the
shore by making use of Newton’s
(A) first law (B) second law
(C) third law (D) all the laws
4. A monkey sits on the pan of spring scale kept in an elevator. The reading of the spring scale
will be maximum when the elevator
(A) is stationary (B) accelerates downward
(C) accelerates upward (D) falls freely towards earth
5. Two elastic blocks A and B of equal mass m and connected by a massless spring, rest on a
smooth horizontal surface. A third block C of the same mass m strikes the block A. After this
collision A and B will

(A) always move in opposite direction

(B) sometimes move in the same direction and some times in the opposite direction
(C) always move in the same direction
(D) be at rest with respect to each other.
6. In which of the following cases the net force is not zero?
(A) A cork floating on the surface of water
(B) An aeroplane rising upwards at an angle of 450 with a constant speed?
(C) A ball freely falling from a height.
(D) A kite skillfully held stationary in the sky.
7. A cold soft drink is kept on the balance when the cap is opened, then its weight
(A) increases (B) decreases
(C) first increases then decreases (D) remain same
8. Rocket engines lift a rocket from the earth surface because hot gas with high velocity
(A) push against the earth (B) push against the air
(C) react against the rocket and push it up (D) heat up the air which lifts the rocket
9. When a horse pulls a cart, the force that makes the horse run forward is the force exerted by
(A) the horse on the ground (B) the horse on the cart
(C) the ground on the cart (D) none of the above
10. Two trains A and B are running in the same direction on parallel tracks such that A is faster
than B. If packets of equal weights are exchanged between the two, then
(A) A will be retarded but B will be accelerated
(B) A will be accelerated but B will be retarded
(C) there will be no change in velocity of A but B will be accelerated
(D) there will be no change in the velocity of any of the two trains
11. Tension in the cable supporting an elevator is equal to the weight of the elevator. The
elevator is going up or down with a
(A) uniform speed (B) uniform acceleration
(C) variable acceleration (D) none of the above
12. A particle at rest suddenly disintegrates into two particles of equal masses, which start
moving. The two fragments will be
(A) move in the opposite direction with equal speeds
(B) move in the opposite direction with unequal speeds
(C) move in any two directions with any speed
(D) move in the same direction with equal velocities
13. The similarity between electrostatic and gravitational force is that both
(A) are conservative (B) are central force
(C) follows inverse square law (D) all of the above
14. A block is pulled along a horizontal frictionless surface by a rope. The tension in the rope will
be the same at all points on it, if
(A) the rope is not accelerated
(B) the rope is massless
(C) either the rope is not accelerated or it is massless
(D) always
15. A passenger train is brought to rest by suddenly applying brakes. Which compartment will
come to rest first?
(A) compartment attached to the engine
(B) compartment at the tail end
(C) the middle compartment
(D) all compartments will come to rest simultaneously
16. A bird dismounts on a stretched telegraph wire. The additional tension produced in the wire is
(A) zero (B) equal to the weight of the bird
(C) less than the weight of the bird (D) greater than the weight of the bird
17. Which one of the following cannot be explained on the basis of Newton’s third law of motion?
(A) Rolling of boat in a pond (B) Motion of jet in the sky
(C) Rebounding of a ball from a wall (D) Returning back of body, thrown above
18. Newton’s second law gives the measure of
(A) acceleration (B) force
(C) momentum (D) all the above
19. A jet plane flies in the air because
(A) the gravity does not act on the bodies moving with high speeds
(B) the flow of air around the wings causes an upward force, which compensates for the force
of gravity.
(C) the thrust of the jet compensates for the force of gravity
(D) the weight of the air whose volume is equal to the volume of plane is more than the weight
of the plane.
20. Force may not be required to keep the
(A) particle going in a circle (B) momentum of the particle constant
(C) acceleration of the particle constant (D) both (a) and (b)
Level  II

1. In the adjoining figure the reading of the balance is (g = 10

ms-2)
(A) 10 N (B) 20N
(C) 40 N (D) zero

2. In the adjoining figure the acceleration of 2kg mass is

(A) g/5 downward (B) g/5 upward
(C) g/11 downward (D) g/11 upward

3. The engines of a jet aircraft apply a thrust force of 3 x 10 5N during take off and cause the
plane to attain a velocity of 2 kms1 in 10s. The mass of the plane is
(A) 1.5 x 102kg (B) 1.5 x 103kg
(C) 1.5 x 104kg (D) 1.5 x 105 kg
4. A body of mass 5 kg moving initially with velocity of 4 ms 1 along OA is subjected to a force of
10N in a direction perpendicular to OA. The distance of body from O after 3 second will be
(A) 9 m (B) 6m
(C) 15 m (D) 21 m
5. A boy standing on a weighing machine notices his weight as 600N. When he suddenly jumps
upwards, the weighing machine shows 900N. What is the acceleration with which the boy
jumps?
(A) 4.9 ms2 (B) 6 ms2
2
(C) 9 ms (D) 9.8 ms2
6. spring is compressed between two blocks of masses M 1 and M2. When the blocks are
released they move apart. If x1 and x2 be the displacements of the blocks when in contact
with the springs, then
(A) M1 x1 = M2 x 2 (B) M1 x 2 = M2 x1
(C) M1 x1 = M2 x 2 (D) M1 x 2 = M2 x1
2 2 2 2

7. A rocket of mass 100kg is fired in the gravity free space. It ejects gases with velocity 100
ms1 at the rate of 1kgs1. What will be the initial acceleration of the rocket?
(A) zero (B) 5 ms2
(C) 10 ms2 (D) 20 ms2
8. A body of mass 6 kg is acted upon by two forces each of magnitude 3N, making an angle 60 0
with each other. The net acceleration of the body is
(A) 0.5 N (B) 1.0
3
(C) N (D) 3 N
2
9. 50 railway wagons of same mass 2x10 3 kg are pulled by an engine with a force of 4x10 5 N.
The tension in the coupling between 20th and 21st wagon from the engine is
(A) 0.08x105N (B) 1.6x105N
(C) 2.4x105 N (D) 4x105 N

10. Three blocks of masses m1, m2 and m3 kg are

placed in contact with each other on a frictionless
table. A force F is applied on the heaviest mass
m1. The acceleration of m2 will be
 F F
(A) (B)
m2 m1
F F
(C) (D)
m1 + m2 m1 + m2 + m3
11. A mass of 5 kg is suspended by a rope of length 4m
from a ceiling. A force of 49N is applied at the mid
point of the rope as shown in figure. The angle q,
which the rope makes with the vertical in equilibrium
is
(A) 150 (B)
0
30
(C) 450 (D)
600

12. In the given figure, the pulley P 2 is movable. If W1 =

W2 = 200N, what is the angle AP 2P1? Given that the
pulleys are frictionless.
(A) 300 (B)
0
60
(C) 900 (D)
1200

13. Two blocks of masses M1 and M2 are connected to

each other through a light spring as shown in figure.
If the mass M1 is pushed with a force F, an
acceleration a1 is produced in it. What will be the
acceleration in M2?

F F
(A) (B)
M2 M1 + M2
F  M1a1 F  M1a1
(C) (D)
M1 + M2 M2
14. A 120 g cricket ball, moving at a speed of 40ms 1 was hit straight back to the bowler at
24 ms1. If contact with the bat lasted for (1/25) sec the average force exerted by the bat on
the ball is
(A) 120 N (B) 192 N
(C) 48 n (D) 96 N
15. A block of mass 5 kg is suspended through two light spring balances hanging vertically one
below the other, then the reading in upper and lower balance will be respectively
(A) 5 kg and zero kg (B) zero kg and 5 kg
(C) 5 kg and 5 kg
(D) there can be any readings but sum of two readings will be 5 kg
16. In a lift moving with a retardation of 4.9 ms 2, the percentage change in the weight of a person
is
(A) 100% (B) 75%
(C) 50% (D) 33.33%
17. The mechanical advantage of a system of pulleys is 4. How much force is needed to raise a
load of 100 kg through 80 cm?
(A) 25 kgf (B) 20 kgf
(C) 400 kgf (D) 320 kgf
18. Two boys are left in the middle of a frictionless floor. One boy of mass 25 kg gives a blow
lasting 1 milli second and of 100N to the other. He himself will move with a velocity of
(A) zero (B) 0.4 ms1
1
(C) 0.004 ms (D) none of these

19. Three masses M1, M2 and M3 are attached with string passing over a fixed and
frictionless pulley as shown in the figure. What is the acceleration of M 1?
M1  M2 + M3
(A) zero (B)
M1 + M2 + M3
M2 + M3  M1 M3  M2  M1
(C) (D)
M1 + M2 + M3 M1 + M2 + M3

20. A shell is fired from a connon with a speed of 10 3 ms1 at an angle of 300 with the horizontal.
At the highest point of its trajectory, the shell explodes into two parts of equal mass and one
of them retraces its path. What will be the velocity of the other part immediately after
collision?
(A) 15 ms1 (B) 10 3 ms1
1
(C) 45 ms (D) 20 3 ms1

Level  III

1. Two masses M1 and M2 are attached to the ends of a string

which passes over a pulley attached to the top of a double
inclined plane of angles of inclination  and . If M1 > M2, the
acceleration a of the system is given by

M1 sin  M2 sin 
(A) g (B) g
M1 + M2 M1 + M2
�M2 sin   M1 sin  �
(C) � �g (D) zero
� M1 + M2 �

2. Two masses each equal to m are lying on the x axis

at (, 0) and (, 0) respectively. They are
connected by a light string. A force F is applied at
the origin and along the y axis. As a result the
masses move towards each other. What is the
acceleration of each mass, when the position of
masses are (x, 0) and (x, 0) respectively

F x F a
(A) (B)
2m a2  x 2 2m a2  x 2
2F x
(D) F a  x
2 2
(C)
m a  x2
2
2m x
3. A light string fixed at one end to a clamp on ground
passes over a fixed pulley and hangs on other side. It
makes an angle of 300 with the ground. A monkey of
mass 15 kg climbs up the rope. The clamp can tolerate a
vertical force of 90N only. The maximum acceleration in
upward direction with which the monkey can climb safely
is (neglect friction and take g=10 ms2)
(A) 2 ms2 (B) 3 ms2
2
(C) 6 ms (D) 15 ms2
4. A dynamometer is attached to two masses 3kg and 2 kg.
Forces of 25N and 15N are applied to the masses as
shown. The reading in the dynamometer is
(A) 20 N (B) 19 N
(C) 9.375 N (D) 6 N
5. A mass less string of length l passes over a frictionless pulley whose axis is horizontal. Two
monkeys hang from the ends of the string at the same distance l/2 from the pulley, the
monkeys start climbing upwards simultaneously. The first monkey climbs upwards with an
acceleration ‘a’ and the second with an acceleration ‘2a’ relative to the rope, then the time
taken by the first and second monkey in meeting each other are respectively.
2l l 2l 2l
(A) and (B) and
a a 3a 3a
l l 2l 2l
(C) and (D) and
2a a a a

6. A 40 g bullet pierces through plate of mass m 1 = 2kg and then

comes to rest inside a second plate of mass m 2 = 3.96 kg. It is
found that the two plates initially at rest, now move with same
velocity. Find the percentage loss in the initial velocity of bullet
when it is between m1 and m2. Neglect any loss of material of the
bodies due to action of bullet.
(A) 2.5% (B) 33.33%
(C) 27.5% (D) 50%
7. A block slides down a curved track which is the quadrant of a
circle of radius 20m. What will be the speed of block at the
bottom? Assume the surface to be frictionless.
(A) 14 ms1 (B) 4 2ms 1
(C) 1.43ms1 (D) 0.7 ms1

8. A man is sitting in a cabin swinging from a frictionless pulley P

as shown in figure. The rope attached with cabin passes over
the pulley and is held by the man. The total weight of man and
cabin is 90 kg. If the man wants to pull the rope and rise
upwards with an acceleration of 2 ms 2. How much force
should he apply on the rope (take g = 10 ms2)
(A) 1080 N downwards
(B) 1080 N upwards
(C) 540 N downwards
(D) 540 upwards
9. Two small balls of equal mass are joined by a light rigid rod. If
they are released from rest in the position shown an slide on
the smooth track in the vertical plane. The speed of balls when
A reaches Bs position is
(A) 4 ms1
(B) 4.43 ms1
(C) 3.13 ms1
(D) none of the above

10. In the given figure, a heavy spherical ball is contained in a

frame. If the inclined surface is smooth, determine the
maximum acceleration with which the frame can move
without causing the ball to leave the frame
g g
(A) (B)
2 2
g
(C) (D) g 3
3
11. A weightless inextensible rope rests on a stationary wedge
forming an angle q with the horizontal. One end of the rope
is fixed to the wall at point A and to the other end of the
rope a small load is attached. The wedge starts moving to
the right with a constant acceleration ‘a’. The acceleration
of the load is given by
(A) a (B) asinq
(C) acosq (D) 2asin(q/2)
12. In the arrangement shown in figure, what will be the
compression in the spring in equilibrium condition
mg mg
(A) (B)
2k k
( M + m ) g ( M + m) g
(C) (D)
2k k
13. A particle P is sliding down a frictionless hemispherical bowl. It
passes the point A at t = 0. At this instant of time, the horizontal
component of its velocity is v. A bead Q of the same mass as P is
ejected from A at t = 0 along the horizontal string AB, with the
speed v. Friction between the string and the bead may be
neglected. Let tp and tQ be the respective time take by P & Q to
reach the point B. Then
(A) tP > tQ (B) tP < tQ
(C) tP > tQ (D) cannot be predicted
14. A particle of mass m initially at rest, is acted upon by a
variable force F for a brief interval of time T. It begins to
move with a velocity u after the force stops acting. F is
shown in the graph as a function of time. The curve is a
semicircle then
pF 2 pT 2
(A) u = 0 (B) u =
2m 8m
pFo T Fo T
(C) u = (D) u =
4m 2m
15. The length of an elastic string is ‘a’ when the tension is 3N and ‘b’ when the tension is 5N.
What will be the length when the tension is 7N?
(A) 2a + b (B) 2b – a
 (C) 5b – 3a (D) 5b + 3a
16. A spherical ball of mass m, rests in a triangular groove whose sides are inclined at angles 
and  to the horizontal. If R1 and R2 be the reactions by the surfaces respectively, then
mg sin  mg sin  mg sin  mg sin 
(A) R1 = , R2 = (B) R3 = , R2 =
sin (  +  ) sin (  +  ) sin (  +  ) sin (  +  )
mg cos  mg cos 
(C) R1 = , Rg = (D) R1 = mg cos , R2 = mg cos 
cos (  +  ) cos (  +  )

17. A body of mass 40 g is moving with a velocity of v 1. if an impulse J is imparted to the body
such that its velocity becomes v2, then
(A) J=20v1+20v2 (B) J=40(v2v1)
(C) J=40(v1+v2) (D) J=20(v2v1)
18. Two stones of masses 10kg and 15 kg are attached by a rubber cord. The cord is stretched
and is placed on a horizontal smooth table. If the first stone moves with an acceleration of
3ms2, the acceleration of the 2nd is
(A) zero (B) 4.5 ms2
2
(C) 5.4 ms (D) 2 ms2
19. An elevator accelerates upward at a constant rate. A uniform string of constant length L and
mass m, supports a small block of mass M that hangs from the ceiling of the elevator. The
tension at distance ‘l’ from the ceiling is T. The acceleration of the elevator is
T T
g +g
(A) ml (B) ml
M+m  2M + m 
L 2
T T
g g
(C) ml (D) ml
m+ 2M  m +
2 2
20. A balloon has 8 gram of air. A small hole is pierced into it. The air escapes at a uniform rate
of 7 cms1. If the balloon shrinks in 5.6 seconds then the average force acting on the balloon
is
(A) 104 N (B) 102 dyne
(C) 56 dyne (D) 106 N
 ANSWERS TO ASSIGNMENT

Subjective
Numerical problems

1. 90,000 N 11. In case (a) the actions is 750 N and in

case
2. 4,000 N
(b) the action is 250 N)
3. 2N
12. In case (b)
4. 300 N
4 g
5. 5N 13. T1 = mg and T2 =
3 3
6. 4.5 N
14. 5000 N
7. a = 2 ms2 and T = 16 N.
15. 828 N, 588 N
8. a = 2 ms2 and T = 240 N.
16. 75 m
9. f = 5N
17. 2.05  106 kg
10. f = 10 N

Objective

Level  I

1) C 2) B 3) C 4) C 5) C
6) C 7) C 8) C 9) D 10) A
11) A 12) A 13) D 14) C 15) A
16) D 17) D 18) B 19) C 20) B

Level  II

1) B 2) C 3) B 4) C 5) A
6) A 7) C 8) C 9) B 10) D
11) C 12) D 13) C 14) B 15) C
16) C 17) A 18) C 19) C 20) C

Level  III

1) C 2) A 3) A 4) B 5) B
6) B 7) C 8) C 9) C 10) D
11) B 12) B 13) B 14) C 15) B
16) A 17) B 18) D 19) A 20) A