Topic 6. Mechanics.

Level 3.
Problem MEC3_01.
1
A particle moves in a straight line with retardation where v is its velocity at time t.
3v 2
Initially the particle is at a fixed point O on the line with velocity u > 0 . Find expressions in
terms of u for the time taken and the distance travelled for the particle to come to rest.

3 4
Answer: u 3 , u .
4

Solution: Origin and positive direction: choose initial position as origin and initial direction of
motion as positive.
1
Equation of motion: && x=− 2 .
3v
Initial conditions: t = 0, x = 0, v = u .
Relation between x and v :
dν 1 3
v = − 2 ⇒ dx = −3 v 3 dv ⇒ x = − v 4 + c, c constant.
dx 3v 4
3 3
(
x = 0, v = u ⇒ c = u4 ⇒ x = u4 − v 4 .
4 4
) (1)
dv −1
Relation between v and t : = ⇒ dt = −3 v 2 dv ⇒ t = − v 3 + A, A constant.
dt 3 v 2
( )
t = 0, v = u ⇒ A = u3 ⇒ t = u3 − v 3 . (2)
3 4
When the particle comes to rest its velocity is zero. So v = 0 ⇒ from (1) x = u is the
4
required distance and from (2) t = u3 is the required time.

Problem MEC3_02.
A particle of mass m moves in a horizontal straight line away from a fixed point O in the line.
3
The particle is resisted by a force mkv , where k is a positive constant and v is the speed. When
2

t = 0 , v = u > 0 . Show that the particle is never brought to rest and that its distance from O is at
2
most u.
k

Solution: Choose initial position as origin, and initial direction of motion as positive.
Equation of motion: && x = − k v 3/ 2 .
Initial conditions: t = 0, x = 0, v = u .
dv dv 2 1
Relation between v and t : = − k v 3/ 2 ⇒ dt = − 3/ 2 ⇒ t = ⋅ 1/ 2 + c, c constant.
dt kv k v
2 1 2 1 1 
t = 0, v = u ⇒ c = − ⋅ 1/ 2 ⇒ t =  1/ 2 − 1/ 2  . From here t → +∞ , as v → 0+ , and so the
k u kv u 
particle is never brought to rest.
dν − dv 2 v1/ 2
Relation between x and v : v = − k v 3/ 2 ⇒ dx = 1/ 2 ⇒ x = − + c, c constant.
dx kv k
 −
2 
x = 0, v = u ⇒ c =
2 1/ 2
k
2
k
( )
u ⇒ x = u1/ 2 − v1/ 2 . From here x →  u1/ 2  as v → 0+ .
k 

Problem MEC3_03.
A particle moves in a straight line away from a fixed point O in the line, such that when its
k
distance from O is x its speed v is given by v = , for some constant k. If A, B, C and D are
x
points in that order on the straight line, such that the distances AB, BC, and CD are all equal,
show that the times taken to travel these successive distances in arithmetic progression.

Solution: Let t1 , t2 and t3 be the times taken to travel the distances AB, BC and
CD respectively.

t1 t2 t3

A B C D x

A+ C B+ D
B− A= C−B = D−C⇒ B= ,C= and C − A = D − B ;
2 2
k dx k
ν= ⇒ = ⇒ xdx = kdt .
x dt x
B 2 − A2 C2 − B2 D2 − C2
By integrating the last equation t1 = , t2 = and t3 = .
2k 2k 2k
The numbers t1 , t2 and t3 are in arithmetic progression if and only if t2 − t1 = t3 − t2 . But
 A + C
2

A + C − 2
2

2
A2 + C 2 − 2 AC ( A − C )
2
A + C − 2B
2 2 2
 2 
t2 − t1 = = = = ,
2k 2k 4k 4k
( D − B)
2

analogously t3 − t2 = . Hence t2 − t1 = t3 − t2 ⇔ A − C = D − B . But the last equation is

4k
true.

Problem MEC3_04.
A particle moves in a straight line away from a fixed point O in the line, such that at time t its
1
displacement from O is x and its velocity v is given by = A + Bt , for some positive constants
v
A and B. If the retardation is 1 ms and the velocity is 80 ms −1 when t = 0 , find the values of A
−2

and B. Express x in terms of t, and v in terms of x.

 t 
Answer: x = 6400 ln 1 +  , ν = 80 ⋅ e− x/ 6400 .
 80 

Solution:
1 d  1 − ν&
= A + Bt ⇒   = B ⇒ 2 = B ⇒ ν& = − Bν2 . (1)
ν dt  ν  ν
1 1
= A + Bt , t = 0, ν = 80 ⇒ A = . From (1) ν& = −Bν2 ;
ν 80
 1
t = 0, ν = 80, ν& = −1 ⇒ B = .
6400
Furthermore,
1 dx 1 dt ln( A + Bt )
ν= ⇒ = ⇒ dx = ⇒ x+C = , C constant.
A + Bt dt A + Bt A + Bt B
 B 
ln 1 + t 
ln A  A 
t = 0, x = 0 ⇒ C = ⇒x= .
B B
1 1
Substituting the values of A = and B = ,
80 6400
 t 
x = 6400 ln 1 +  .
 80 
1 dν2 dν2
At the same time from (1) ν& = −Bν2 ⇒ = − B ν ⇒ 2 = −2 B dx ⇒ ln ν2 + C = −2 Bx .
2

2 dx ν
ν2
x = 0, ν = 80 ⇒ C = − ln 6400 ⇒ ln = −2 B x ⇒ ν = 80e− B x .
6400
1
Substituting B = , ν = 80 ⋅ e− x/ 6400 .
6400

Problem MEC3_05.
A particle of mass m moves in a horizontal straight line. The only force acting on the particle is
( )
a resistance of magnitude mk v 2 + c 2 , where k and c are positive constants and v is the speed. If
v = 2c when t = 0 , find the additional distance travelled and the additional time taken for the
particle to come to rest since the moment when the speed was halved.

1 1 π
Answer: ln 2 , ⋅ .
2k kc 4

Solution: Choose initial position as origin and initial direction as positive.

Equation of motion: m &x& = − mk (ν 2 + c 2 ) ⇒ ν& = − k (ν 2 + c 2 ), k > 0 constant.
Let x1/ 2 and t1/ 2 denote the distance travelled and the time taken for the speed to be halved.
1 dν 2 dν 2
Relation between ν and x : ν& = − k (ν 2 + c 2 ) ⇒ = − k ( ν 2
+ c 2
) ⇒ = −2kdx ⇒
2 dx 2 ν2 + c2
( )
ln ν 2 + c 2 + A = −2k x, A constant.
1  5c 2 
( )
x = 0, v = 2c ⇒ A = − ln 5c 2 ⇒ x = ln 
2k  ν 2 + c 2
 (1)

1 5
The halved speed ν = c ⇒ x1 / 2 = ln   .
2k  2 
dν 1 ν
Relation between ν and t : ν& = − k (ν 2 + c 2 ) ⇒ = − kdt ⇒ tan −1 + A = − kt ,
ν +c
2 2
c c
1
A constant, and t = 0,ν = 2c ⇒ A = − tan −1 2 ⇒
c
1 ν
t =  tan −1 2 − tan −1  . (2)
kc c
If ν = c ⇒ t1 / 2 =
1
kc
( ) 1
tan −1 2 − tan −11 , but tan −1 2 − tan −1 1 = tan −1 . Hence t1 / 2 =
3
1
kc
1
tan −1 .
3
Denote x0 and t0 the distance and the time for the particle to come to rest. Then from (1), if
1
ν = 0, ⇒ x0 = ln 5 .
2k
1  5 1
And hence the additional distance x0 − x1/ 2 =  ln 5 − ln  = ln 2 .
2k  2  2k
1
From (2), if ν = 0, ⇒ t 0 = tan −1 2 .
kc
1 1
Hence the additional time t 0 − t1 / 2 =  tan −1 2 − tan −1  .
kc 3
1 π 1 π
But tan −1 2 − tan −1 = tan −11 = ⇒ t 0 − t1 / 2 = ⋅ .
3 4 kc 4

Problem MEC3_06.
A particle of mass m moves in a straight line away from a fixed point O in the line such that at
time t its displacement from O is x and its velocity is v. At time t = 0, x = 1 and v = 0 .
k
Subsequently the only force acting on the particle is one of magnitude m 2 , where k is a
x
positive constant, in a direction away from O. Find the time taken by the particle to move from
x = 2 to x = 4 .

1  2+ 3 
Answer: ln + 2 3 − 2 .
2k  2 + 2 

Solution: Choose initial direction as positive.

Initial conditions: t = 0, x = 1, v = 0 .
k
Equation of motion: && x = 2 , k > 0.
x
v dv k k v2 k
Relation between v and x : = 2 ⇒ vdv = 2 dx ⇒ = − + c, c constant.
dx x x 2 x
 1
x = 1, v = 0 ⇒ c = k ⇒ v 2 = 2 k 1 −  ; (1)
 x
1
x ≥ 1 ⇒ 1 − < 1 ⇒ v 2 < 2k ⇒ v < 2k .
x
( )
2
dv k 1 v2 dv 2k − v 2
Relation between v and t : = , but from (1) = 1 − ⇒ = . From here
dt x 2 x 2k dt 4k
4 k dv 4k dv
dt = t c=∫
2 ⇒ +
, c constant.
( ) ( )
2
2k − v 2 2k − v 2
f ( v ):= ∫
4k dv ( 2 k − v + v ) dv 2

2
dv v dv 
 2

(2 k − v ) ∫ ( 2k − v )
=2 = 2 ∫ +∫ =
 2k − v (2k − v ) 
2 2 2 2
2 2 2

dv vd (2 k − v ) 2
dv  − v dv 
2∫ +2∫ = 2∫ − +∫ =
2k − v 2
( )(
−2 2 k − v ) 2 2
2 k − v 
 ( 2 k −
2
v ) 2 k − v 2

2

dv v 1  1 1  v 1 2k + v v
∫ 2k − v +
2k − v
2 2
=
2 2 ∫ dv 
 2k − v
+ +
2k + v  2 k − v
2
=
2 2k
ln +
2k − v 2 k − v 2
.

Let at time t = t1 , v = v1 and x = 2 , and let at time t = t2 , v = v2 and x = 4 .

x = 2 ⇒ from (1) v1 = k ;

3
x = 4 ⇒ from (1) v2 = k.
2
2k + v
We obtained that t + c = f ( v ) , where c is constant and f ( v ) =
1 v
ln + .
2 2k 2 k − v 2k − v 2
Hence t2 − t1 = f ( v2 ) − f ( v1 ) ⇒
 3 3 
 2k +
k 
k k
t2 − t1 =
1 1 2 − 1 ln 2 k + k + 2k ⋅ 2 − 2k ⋅
 ln ⇒
2k  2 3 2 2k − k −
3 2k − k 
2k − k 2 k k
 2 2 
1 2 + 3 1
1 2 +1  1 1
t2 − t1 =  ln + ln + 2 3 − 2  , but = 2 + 3 and = 2 +1,
 2
2k 2 − 3 2 2 − 1  2 − 3 2 −1
1  2+ 3 
hence t2 − t1 = ln + 2 3 − 2 .
2k  2 + 2 

Problem MEC3_07.
A particle moves in a straight line with simple harmonic motion. At distances x1 and x 2 from
the centre of the motion its speeds are v1 and v 2 respectively. Show that
x 22 v12 − x12 v 22
(a) its amplitude is ;
v12 − v 22
x 22 − x12
(b) its period is 2π ⋅ .
v12 − v 22

Solution: Motion is simple harmonic ⇒ x = a cos( nt + α) , 0 ≤ α < 2π , ⇒ x& = − an sin ( nt + α ) .

t = t1, x = x1, v = v1 ; t = t2 , x = x 2 , v = v 2 ;
⇒ x1 = a cos ( nt1 + α ) ; (1) ⇒ x2 = a cos ( nt2 + α) ; (3)
⇒ y1 = − an sin ( nt1 + α) ; (2) ⇒ y2 = − an sin ( nt2 + α ) . (4)
 v12 v22 v12 v22
From (1) and (2) x12 + = a 2
, and from (3) and (4) x 2
2 + = a 2
. Hence x1
2
+ = x 2
2 + ⇒
n2 n2 n2 n2
v12 − v22
( )
n 2 x22 − x12 = v12 − v22 ⇒ n =
x22 − x12
.

2π x 2 − x2
But T = ⇒ T = 2π ⋅ 22 12 .
n v1 − v2

2 v12
a = x + 2 ⇒ a = x1 +
2 2 2
v12 x22 − x12 (
⇒a =
2 )
x22 v12 − x12 v22
⇒a=
x22 v12 − x12 v22
.
v12 − v22 v12 − v22 v12 − v22
1
n

Problem MEC3_08.
On a certain day, the depth of water in a harbour at high tide at 5 am is 9 m. At the following
low tide at 11.20 am the depth is 3 m. Assuming that the tidal motion is simple harmonic, find
the latest time before noon that a ship can enter the harbour if a minimum depth of 7.5 m of
water is required.

Answer: 7.06 am.

Solution:

Period T = 2 ⋅ (11,20 − 5) = 2 ⋅ 380 = 760 minutes

(9 − 3) = 3m .
1
Amplitude is
2
2π π
Motion is simple harmonic ⇒ &&
x = − n2 x, n = = .
T 380
This equation has solution x = 3 cos ( nt + α ), 0 ≤ α < 2π .
Initial conditions: t = 0, x = 3 ⇒ cos α = 1 ⇒ α = 0 ⇒ x = 3 cos nt . A minimum depth is
7.5m if x = 1.5 ⇒ we have the equation
1 π π 380
1.5 = 3cos nt ⇒ cos nt = ⇒ nt = ⇒ t = = = 2.06 .
2 3 3n 3
Hence the latest time before noon when a minimum depth of 7.5m of water is
5 + 2.06 = 7.06 am.
Problem MEC3_09.
On a certain day, low water for a harbour occurs at 3.30 am and high water at 9.45 am, the
corresponding depths of water being 5 m and 15 m. Find between what times during the morning
a ship drawing 12.5 m of water can safely enter the harbour.

Answer: between 7.40 am and 11.50 am.

Solution:

Period T = 2 ⋅ 375 = 750 minutes.

Amplitude is (15 − 5) = 5 m .
1
2
2π π
Motion is simple harmonic ⇒ &&
x = − n2 x, n = = .
T 375
This equation has solution x = 5 cos ( nt + α), 0 ≤ α < 2π .
Initial conditions: t = 0, x = 5 ⇒ cos α = 1 ⇒ α = 0 ⇒ x = 5 cos nt .
The level of water of 12.5m corresponds to x = 2.5 ⇒ we have the equation
1 π π 375 375
2.5 = 5cos nt , cos nt = , nt = − or nt = , t = − or t = ,
2 3 3 3 3
i. e., t = −2.05 or t = 2.05 .
As t = 0 corresponds to 9.45 am , the ship can safely enter the harbour between
t1 = 9.45 − 2.05 = 7.40 am and t 2 = 9.45 + 2.05 = 11.50 am

Problem MEC3_10.
The depth of water in a harbour is 7.2 m at low water and 13.6 m at high water. On Monday,
low water is at 2.05 pm and high water at 8.20 pm. The captain of the ship drawing 12.3 m of
water wants to leave harbour as early on Monday afternoon as he can. Find his earliest leaving
time on Wednesday if he fails to leave on Monday or Tuesday.

Answer: 7.59 am.

Solution:
Period T is 2 ⋅ 375 = 750 minutes.
1
Amplitude is (13.6 − 7.2 ) = 3.2m .
2
2π π
Motion is simple harmonic ⇒ &&
x = − n2 x , n = = .
T 375
This equation has solution x = 3.2 cos(nt + α ) , 0 ≤ α < 2π .
Initial conditions: t = 0, x = −3.2 ⇒ cos α = −1 ⇒ α = π ⇒ x = −3.2 cos nt .
 1.9 
A minimum depth is 12.3m , if x = 1.9 ⇒1.9 = −3.2 cos nt ⇒ nt = cos −1  − ⇒
 3.2 
375  −1 19 
t=  π − cos  ⇒ t = 264 minutes = 4.24 and T − t = 750 − 264 = 486 minutes = 8.06.
π  32 
Hence on Monday the ship can leave the harbour between 2.05 pm + 4.24 = 6.29 pm and
2.05 pm + 8.06 = 10.11 pm .
On Monday the ship can leave the harbour between 6.29 pm and 10.11 pm . As the period of
oscillations is T = 750 minutes = 12.30 the ship can leave on Tuesday between
6.29 pm + 12.30 = 6.59am and 10.11 pm + 12.30 = 10.41am . Acting in such a way we can write
the following list:
Monday 6.29 pm — 10.11 pm ,
Tuesday 6.59am — 10.41am ,
Tuesday 7.29 pm — 11.11 pm ,
Wednesday 7.59am — 11.41am .
Hence the answer is 7.59am .

Problem MEC3_11.
A particle is moving vertically downward in a medium which exerts a resistance to the motion
which is proportional to the speed of the particle. The particle is released from rest at O, and at
time t its position is at a distance x below O and its speed is v. If the terminal velocity is V, show
that xg + Vν = Vgt .

Solution: Choose point 0 as origin and ↓ as positive direction.

Equation of motion: ν& = g − kν .
Initial conditions: t = 0, x = 0, ν = 0 .
Terminal velocity V hence g = kV ⇒ k = g / V .
Expression relating x and ν Expression relating ν and t
ν& = g − kν , ν& = g − kν ,
dν dν
ν = g − kν , = g − kν ,
dx dt
− kνdν dν
− kdx = , dt = ,
g − kν g − kν
 g  − kdν
− kdx = 1 −  dν , − kdt = ,
 g − kν  g − kν
− kdν
− k 2 dx = kdν + g ⋅ , − kt + C = ln g − kν , C constant,
g − kν
− k 2 x + C = kν + g ln g − kν , C constant, t = 0, ν = 0 ⇒ C = ln g ,
1 g
x = 0, ν = 0 ⇒ C = g ln g , t= ln . (2)
k g − kν
ν g g
x=− + 2 ln . (1)
k k g − kν
g ν g νV
From (2) ln = kt ⇒ from (1) x = − + t . But k = g / V , hence x = − + Vt ⇒
g − kν k k g
xg + Vν = Vgt .

Problem MEC3_12.
A particle is moving vertically downward under gravity in a medium which exerts a resistance
to the motion which is proportional to the speed of the particle. It is released from rest at O, and
its terminal velocity is V. Find the distance it has fallen below O and the time taken when its
velocity is one half of its terminal velocity.

V2 V2 V
Answer: − + ln 2 , ln 2 .
2g g g

Solution: Origin is point of release. ↓ is positive direction ⇒ F = mg − mkv , k > 0 .

Equation of motion: && x = g − kv .
Initial conditions: t = 0, x = 0, v = 0 .
−
 g g g
x → 0, v →   . Hence V = ⇒ k = .
Terminal velocity V , but as &&
 k k V
Expression relating v and x : Expression relating v and t :
dv dv
v = g − kv , = g − kv ,
dx dt
v dv
dx = dv , dt = ,
g − kv g − kv
1  g − kv − g  1 − k dv
dx = −   dv , dt = − ⋅ ,
k  g − kv  k g − kv
  1 g k 
t = − ln( g − kv ) + A , A constant.
1
dx =  − + 2 ⋅  dv ,
 k k g − kv  k
v g 1 1
x = − + 2 ln + c , c constant. t = 0, v = 0 ⇒ A = ln g ;
k k g − kv k
g 1  g 
x = 0, v = 0 ⇒ c = ln g ; t= ln  ,
k2 k  g − kv 
v g  g  g
x=− + ln  , but k = , hence
k k 2  g − kv  V
V V g  1  V  1 
v= ⇒x = − + 2 ln  , t= ln  ,
2 2k k  1 − kV / 2 g  g 1 − V v 
g V V
but k = , hence v = ⇒ t = ln 2 .
V 2 g
2
V V2
x=− + ln 2 .
2g g

Problem MEC3_13.
A parachutist of mass m falls freely until his parachute opens. When it is open he experiences
an upward resistance mkv , where v is his speed and k is a positive constant. The parachutist
1
falls freely for a time and then opens his parachute. Find the total distance he has fallen
2k
g
when his speed is
k

g
(8 ln 2 − 1) .
8k 2

Solution: 1. Free motion: choose initial point of motion as origin and ↓ as positive direction.
ν& = g .
Initial conditions: t = 0, x = 0, ν = 0 .
Find ν = ν( t ) and x = x ( t ) :
ν& = g ⇒ ν + C = gt , C constant;
gt 2
t = 0, ν = 0 ⇒ C = 0 ⇒ ν = gt ⇒ x& = gt ⇒ x + C = , C constant;
2
gt 2
t = 0, x = 0 ⇒ x = .
2
1
Let ν and x at a time t = be V and h respectively. Then from the relations ν = gt and
2k
gt 2 g g
x= we obtain V = and h = 2 .
2 2k 8k
2. Motion with resistance: choose the point where the parachutist opened his parachute as origin
and direction ↓ as positive.
Equation of motion: ν& = g − kν .
Initial conditions: t = 0, x = 0, ν = V .
 dν ν dν − kν dν
Relation between x and ν : ν& = g − kν ⇒ ν = g − kν ⇒ dx = ⇒ − kdx = ⇒
dx g − kν g − kν
 −g   −k 
− kdx = 1 +  dν ⇒ − k dx =  k + g
2
 dν ⇒ − k x + C = kν + g ln g − kν , C
2

 g − kν   g − kν 
constant;
g g − kV ( ν − V )
x = 0, ν = V ⇒ C = kV + g ln g − kV ⇒ x = 2 ln − .
k g − kν k
g 3g g g
But V = and if ν = , then x = 2 ln 2 − 2 .
2k 4k k 4k
The total distance the parachutist has fallen is h + x :
g g g
h + x = 2 ln 2 − 2 + 2 ,
k 4k 8k
h + x = 2 (8 ln 2 − 1) .
g
8k

Problem MEC3_14.
A particle of mass m falls from rest under gravity and the resistance to its motion is mkv 2 ,
where v is its speed and k is a positive constant. As the distance it has fallen increases from
5
d 1 to 2 d 2 , the speed increases from v1 to v1 . Express the greatest possible speed of the particle
4
in terms of v1 .

4ν 1
Answer: .
7

Solution: Choose initial position of motion as origin and ↓ as positive direction.

Equation of motion: ν& = g − kν2 .
Initial conditions: t = 0, x = 0, ν = 0 .
Find relation between x and ν :
1 dν2 dν2 − k dν2
ν& = g − kν2 ⇒ = g − kν2 ⇒ 2 dx = ⇒ −2 k dx = ⇒
2 dx g − kν2 g − kν2
−2 kx + C = ln g − kν2 ;
k 2
x = 0, ν = 0 ⇒ C = ln g ⇒ −2 kx = ln 1 − ν ⇒
g

ν2 =
g
k
1 − e −2kx . ( ) (1)
g
k
( k
From (1) ν12 = 1 − e−2 kd1 ⇒ e −2 kd1 = 1 − ν12 ⇒
g
)
2
−2 k ( 2 d1 )  k
e = 1 − ν12  . (2)
 g

( )
2
5  g
From (1)  ν1 = 1 − e ( 1 ) and taking account of (2)
−2 k 2 d

4  k
 2 2
 k  k
2
5  k 25 k k k 7 1
 ν1  = 1 − 1 − ν12  ⇒ ν12 = 2 ν12 − ν14   ⇒ = .
4  g  g 16 g g  g g 16 ν12
As the resistance to the particle’s motion is m k ν2 , the greatest possible speed of the particle is
g k 7 1 4ν
ν= . But = ⋅ 2 ⇒ ν = 1 .
k g 16 ν1 7

Problem MEC3_15.
A particle of mass m is projected vertically upward under gravity with speed u in a medium in
which the resistance is mk times the speed, where k is a positive constant. Let H be the greatest
height reached in time T. If the particle returns to its original position with speed w after a
further time T ′ , show that w = gT ′ − kH

Solution: Choose the highest point of motion as origin and ↓ as positive direction.
Equation of motion: ν& = g − k ν .
Initial conditions: t = 0, x = 0, ν = 0 .
Expression relating x and ν : Expression relating ν and t :
dν dν
ν = g − kν , = g − kν ,
dx dt
ν dν dν
dx = , dt = ,
g − kν g − kν
− kν dν − kdν
− k dx = , − kdt = ,
g − kν g − kν
 g 
− k dx = 1 −  dν , − kt + C = ln g − kν ,
 g − kν 
 −k 
− k 2 dx =  k + g ⋅  dν , t = 0, ν = 0 ⇒ C = ln g ,
 g − kν 
1 g
− k 2 x + C = k ν + g ln g − kν , t= ln . (2)
k g − kν
x = 0, ν = 0 ⇒ C = g ln g ,
ν g g
x=− + 2 ln . (1)
k k g − kν
As the particle reaches its original position, ν = w and x = H , hence from (1)
w g g
H = − + 2 ln . At the same time from (2) as ν = w and t = T ′ we obtain
k k g − kw
1 g g w g
T′ = ln . From here ln = kT ′ ⇒ H = − + 2 kT ′ ⇒ w = gT ′ − kH .
k g − kw g − kw k k

Problem MEC3_16.
A projectile is fired vertically upward from the surface of the earth with speed V. The
gR 2
acceleration due to gravity is 2 where R is the radius of the earth and x is the distance from
x
the centre of the earth.
(i) Neglecting air resistance, show that if V = (gR) , then the speed v of the projectile at
2R − x
distance x from the centre of the earth is given by v = gR ;
x
(ii) Hence show that the projectile reaches a height R above the surface of the earth, and find
the time taken to reach this height.

π  R
Answer:  + 1 ⋅ .
2  g

Solution: Choose ↑ as a positive direction. Choose the center of the earth as origin.
− gR2
Equation of motion: && x= .
x2
Initial conditions: t = 0, x = R, v = V .
dv gR 2 gR 2 v2 gR 2
(i) Relation between x and v : v = − 2 ⇒ vdv = − 2 dx ⇒ + C = , C constant.
dx x x 2 x
V2 gR v 2 gR2 gR
x = R, v = V ⇒ C = − + gR . As V = gR , we have C = ⇒ = − ⇒
2 2 2 x 2
2R − x
v = gR . (1)
x
(ii) v = 0 ⇒ from (1) x = 2 R . Hence the projectile reaches the height R above the surface of
dv gR 2
the earth. From the equation of motion =− 2 . (2)
dt x
2
2 gR 2 2  gR + v 
2
dv
But from (1) x = . Substituting this into (2), = − gR   ⇒
gR + v 2 dt  2 gR 2 

( )
2
dv gR + v 2 − dt dv −t dv
=− ⇒ = ⇒ +A=∫ , A constant.
( ) ( )
2 2 2 2
dt 4 gR 2 4 gR gR + v 2 4 gR gR + v 2
dv dv 1 1
Let us calculate I = ∫ , a = gR ; ∫ = 4 ∫
dv =
(a ) (a )
2 2
2
+ v2 2
+ v2 a   v 22
1 +   
  a 

1 ( v / a)′ dv .
a3 ∫   v  2  2
1 +   
  a 
v 1 du
Let u = ⇒ I = 3 ∫ .
( )
2
a a 1 + u2

2 ′
du 1 + u2 − u2 1 u2 u u ( )
∫ =∫ du = ∫ du − ∫ du = tan u − ∫
−1
But du =
(1 + u )
2 2
(1 + u ) 2 2 1 + u2 ( ) ( )
2
1 + u2 2 1 + u2 2
′
u 1  u 1 1 1 u 1
tan u + ∫ 
−1
2
du = tan −1 u + ⋅ − ∫ du = tan −1 u + − tan −1 u ⇒
2 1+ u  2 1+ u 2 1+ u
2 2
2 1+ u 2
2 ( )
 1  1 −1 u 
I=  + 2 
( )
tan u ;
a3  2
 2 1 + u 

v 1 v 1 v/a 1 v v
u = ⇒ I = 3 tan −1 + 3 ⋅ ⇒ I = 3 tan −1 + 2 2 , a = gR .
a 2a a a  v  2
21 + 2 
2a a 2a a + v 2 ( )
 a 
−t 1 v v
+ A= tan −1 +
( )
Hence ; (3)
2( gR ) gR 2 gR gR + v 2
2 3/ 2
4 gR
1 1 π 1 1
t = 0, v = gR ⇒ A = tan −1 1 + ⇒ A= ⋅ + ⇒
2( gR) 2 gR ( gR + gR) 4 2( gR) 4( gR)
3/ 2 3/ 2 3/ 2

1 π 
A= ⋅  + 1 .
4( gR) 2 
3/ 2

π  4 gR 2 π  R
v = 0 ⇒ from (3) t = A ⋅ 4 gR 2 ⇒ t =  + 1 ⋅ ⇒ t =  + 1 ⋅ .
 2  4( gR) gR 2  g

Problem MEC3_17.
A particle of mass m is projected vertically upward under gravity with speed nV in a medium
in which the resistance to motion is mk times the square of the speed of the particle, where k and
n are positive constants and V is the terminal velocity of the particle in this medium.
(a) Find the time taken by the particle to return to its starting point.
(b) Find the speed with which the particle returns to its starting point.

V
g
−1
{ (
Answer: tan n + ln n + n + 1 , V ⋅
2 n2
n2 + 1
. )}
Solution: Upward motion. Choose a point of projection as origin and ↑ as positive.
Initial conditions: t = 0, x = 0, v = nV .
Equation of motion: && x = − g − k v2 .
Expression relating x and v . Expression relating v and t .
dv dv
v = − g − k v2 , = − g − k v2 ,
dx dt
v dv dv
− dx = , − dt = ,
g+kv 2
g + k v2
1 2kv dv 1 dv
− dx = ⋅ , − dt = ,
2k g + k v 2
g  k 
2

1+  v
 g 
 k 
−x + c =
1
2k
( )
ln g + k v 2 , c constant; −t + A =
1
gk
⋅ tan −1  v  , A constant;
 g 
 k 
x = 0, v = nV ⇒ c =
1
2k
(
ln g + k n 2 V 2 ) t = 0, v = nV ⇒ A =
1
gk
⋅ tan −1 
 g
nV 

1  g + k n2 V 2  1  −1 k k 
⇒x= ln  . (1) ⇒t= tan nV − tan −1 v  . (2)
2k  g + kv 2  gk  g g 
Let h be the distance between the point of projection and the highest point and t1 be the time of
ascent. When the particle reaches its highest point, its velocity is zero. Then v = 0 ⇒ from (1)
1  k 2 2 1 k
h= ln 1 + n V  , and from (2) t1 = tan −1 nV .
2k  g  gk g
Downward motion. Choose the highest point as origin and ↓ as positive.
Initial conditions: t = 0, x = 0, v = 0 .
Equation of motion: && x = g − k v2 .
−
 g g g
x → 0, v 2 →   . Hence V 2 = ⇒ k = 2 . Using this equation,
Terminal velocity: as &&
 k k V

h=
V2
2g
( ) V
ln 1 + n 2 and t1 = tan −1 n .
g
Expression relating x and v . Expression relating v and t .
dv dv
v = g − k v2 , = g − k v2 ,
dx dt
v dv dv
dx = , dt = ,
g − k v2 g − k v2
1 −2kv dv 1  1 1 
dx = − ⋅ , dt =  +  k dv ,
2k g − k v 2 2 gk  g − k v g + k v
−1  g + k v
x+c =
2k
( )
ln g − k v 2 , c constant; t+ A=
1
2 gk
⋅ ln   , A constant;
 g − k v
−1
x = 0, v = 0 ⇒ c = ln g , t = 0, v = 0 ⇒ A = 0 ,
2k
 k 
1+ v
1  g 
ln  
1 g
⇒x= ln  . (3) ⇒t= (4)
2k  g − k v 2  2 gk  k 
1− v
 g 
Let v1 be the speed with which the particle returns to its starting point and t2 be the time taken
by this particle to return from its highest point to its starting point. Then x = h, v = v1 ⇒ from
 
1  g  1  k 2 2 1  1 
 g
(3) h = ln  2
⇒ ln1 + n V  = ln . Using k = 2 ,
2k  g − k v1  2k  g  2 k 1 − k v2  V
 1 
 g 
 v1 
1 n2 1 1 + 
1+ n =
2
⇒ v1 = V ⋅ 2 ; v = v1, t = t2 ⇒ from (4) t2 = ln  V  ⇒
v12 n +1 2 g k  1 − v1 
1− 2  V
V

t2 =
V  n2 + 1 + n2 
ln 
2 g  n +1 − n 
2 2
 . But

1
n +1 − n
2 2
V
g( )
= n 2 + 1 + n 2 , hence t2 = ln n + n 2 + 1 .

From here t1 + t2 =
V
g { ( )}
tan −1 n + ln n + n 2 + 1 is the time taken by the particle to return to its

starting point.
Problem MEC3_18.
A particle is projected from a point O with speed V and angle of elevation α . At a certain point
P on its trajectory, the direction of motion of the particle and the line OP are inclined (in
opposite senses) at equal angles β to the horizontal. Show that
4V sin α
(a) the time taken to reach P from O is .
3g
(b) 3 tan β = tan α .

Solution: Axes and origin:

O is the point of projection.

After t seconds the particle is at the position:

x = V cos α ⋅ t , (1)
2
gt
y = V sin α ⋅ t − . (2)
2

y V sin α ⋅ t − gt 2 / 2
(a) Obviously tan β = , hence from (1) and (2) tan β = ⇒
x V cos α ⋅ t

g
tan β = tan α − ⋅t (3)
2V cos α

Also tan( π − β) = y x′ ⇒ from (1) and (2)

y& V sin α − gt g
− tan β = = ⇒ tan β = t − tan α .
x& V cos α V cos α
 g g 3 g
Equating this with (3), tan α − t= t − tan α ; t = 2 tan α ;
2V cos α V cos α 2 V cos α

4V
t= sin α (4)
3 g

g 4V 1
(b) From (3) and (4) tan β = tan α − ⋅ sin α ; tan β = tan α ⇒ 3 tan β = tan α.
2V cos α 3 g 3

Problem MEC3_19.
A particle is projected from a point O with speed 40 ms −1 at an angle of elevation
3
α, where tan α = . Two seconds later, a second particle is projected from O and it collides with
4
the first particle one second after leaving O. Find the initial velocity of the second particle.

1
Answer: 32 ⋅ 10 ms −1 at an angle of elevation tan −1 .
3

Solution: Axes and origin:

3
V = 40ms −1 , tan α = .
4

Let the second particle be projected with speed U at an angle of elevation β .

Initial conditions:

the first particle when t = 0 the second particle when t = 2

x1 = 0, y1 = 0 , x2 = 0, y2 = 0 ,

x&1 = V cos α , x& 2 = U cos β ,

y&1 = V sin α , y& 2 = U sin β .

Equations of motion:

x1 = 0, &&y1 = − g
&& x2 = 0, &&y2 = − g
&&
⇒ x&1 = V cos α , ⇒ x&2 = U cos β ,

y&1 = V sin α − g ⋅ t , y& 2 = U sin β − g(t − 2) .

Hence after t seconds the particles are at the positions

x1 = V cosα ⋅ t (1); ⇒ x2 = U cosβ ⋅ (t − 2) (3)

g(t − 2)
2

y1 = V sin α ⋅ t − gt / 2
2
(2); y2 = U sin β(t − 2) − . (4)
2

As the particles collide, their coordinates are equal to each other. Hence

t = 3, x1 = x2 ⇒ from (1) and (3) 3V cos α = U cos β . (5)

t = 3, y1 = y2 ⇒ from (2) and (4) 3V sin α − 4 g = U sin β . (6)

4g 1 3
Dividing (6) and (5), we get tan β = tan α − ⋅ . But tan α = ⇒
3 V cos α 4

(1 − cos α) = 169 ⋅ cos

2 2
α ⇒ cosα =
4
5
.

3 4⋅ g 1 1
Hence tan β = − ⋅ ⇒ tan β = .
4 3 40 ⋅ 4 / 5 3

3V cos α 1 3
From (5) U = . But tan β = ⇒ cos β = .
cos β 3 10

4 10
Hence U = 3 ⋅ 40 ⋅ ⋅ ⇒ U = 32 ⋅ 10 ms −1 .
5 3

So the second particle was projected with speed 32 ⋅ 10 ms −1 at an angle of elevation

1
β = tan −1 .
3

Problem MEC3_20.
O is a point on horizontal ground. D is a point a distance d vertically above O. A particle is
projected from O with speed U at the angle of elevation α . Simultaneously a second particle is
projected horizontally from D with speed V on the same side of OD as A and in the same vertical
8
plane through O as the first particle. If U = 51, V = 45, d = 60 and tan α = , show that the two
15
particle do collide and find the time and the height above O at which this occurs. (Take
g = 10 ms −2 .)

Answer: 2.5 s, 28.75 m.

Solution: Axes and origin:

AD = d .

Initial conditions.

The particle from A The particle from B

when t = 0

x1 = 0, y1 = 0 , x2 = 0, y2 = d ,

x&1 = U cos α , x& 2 = V ,

y&1 = U sin α , y& 2 = 0 .

After t seconds the particles are at positions

x 1 = U cos α ⋅ t , (1); x2 = V t , (3)

2 2
gt gt
y 1 = U sin α ⋅ t − , ( 2 ); y2 = d − , ( 4)
2 2

The particles do collide at a time T if and only if at this moment x1 = x2 and y1 = y2 . Hence

t = T , x1 = x2 ⇒ from (1) and (3) V = U cos α . (5)

t = T , y1 = y2 ⇒ from (2) and (4) U sin α ⋅ T = d . (6).

tan α =
8
15
⇒ sin 2 α =
64
225
( 8
1 − sin 2 α ⇒ sin α = .
17
)
1/ 2
 64  5
Hence cos α = 1 −  ⇒ cos α = .
 289  17
15
Now we can check (5): 45 = 51 ⋅ ⇒ 45 = 45 . Hence (5) is fulfilled, and so the particles do
17
d 60
collide. From (6) we find the time of collision T : T = ⇒T = ⇒ T = 2,5 s .
U sin α 51 ⋅ 8 / 17
Let h be the height at which the particles collide. Hence t = T , y2 = h ⇒ from (4)
gT 2 10 ⋅ 6,25
h=d− ⇒ h = 60 − ⇒ h = 28,75 m .
2 2

Problem MEC3_21.
A particle is projected from a point O with speed 20 ms −1 at an angle of elevation α . T
seconds later another particle is projected from O with the same speed but at an angle of
elevation β , where β < α . The two particles collide at a point 24 m horizontally from O and 12
m vertically above O. Taking g = 10 ms −2 , find the value of T .

6
Answer: −2 .
5

Solution: Axes and origin:

u = 20 ;
β < α, g = 10 ;
T =?
Let t = 0 be the time when the first particle is projected.
Initial conditions:
the first particle the second particle
t = 0; t =T;
x1 = 0, y1 = 0 ; x2 = 0, y2 = 0 ;
x&1 = u cos α, y&1 = u sin α ; x& 2 = u cos β, y& 2 = u sin β .
Hence after t seconds, the two particles are at positions:
x1 = u cos α ⋅ t , x2 = u cos β ⋅ (t − T ), .
g t2 g (t − T )
y1 = u sin α − , y2 = u sin β ⋅ (t − T ) − .
2 2
When the particles collide x1 = x2 = 24 and y1 = y2 = 12 . Hence
24 = 20 cosα ⋅ t , 24 = 20 cosβ ⋅ (t − T ) ,
12 = 20 sin β ⋅ (t − T ) − 5 (t − T ) .
2
12 = 20 sin α ⋅ t − 5t 2 ,
From here
1 . 2 = cos α ⋅ t , (1) 1 . 2 = cos β ⋅ (t − T ) , (3)
2 .4 = 4 sin α ⋅ t − t , 2 .4 = 4 sin β ⋅ (t − T ) − (t − T ) .
2 2
(2) (4)
1 .2 1 . 44
(1) ⇒t = ⇒ from (2) 2 .4 = 4 ⋅ 1 .2 tan α − .
cos α cos α
2

But
1
cos α
2
( )
= 1 + tan 2 α ⇒ 2 .4 = 4 .8 tan α − 1 . 44 1 + tan 2 α ⇒ 1 . 44 tan 2 α − 4 . 8 tan α + 3 . 84 = 0 ;
 2,4 ± 2 . 4 − 1 . 44 ⋅ 3 . 84
2
4
tan α = ; tan α = 2 or tan α = .
1 .44 3
Analogously,
2
1 .2 1 .2
(3) ⇒t − T = ⇒ from (4) 2 .4 = 4 . 8 tan β − ⇒ 1 . 2 tan 2 β − 4 tan β + 3 .2 = 0 ;
cos β cos β
2

4 ± 16 − 4 ⋅ 1 . 2 ⋅ 3 . 2 4
tan β = ; tan β = 2 or tan β = .
2 ⋅1 .2 3
4 1
We have α > β ⇒ tan α > tan β ⇒ tan α = 2 and tan β = . From here cos α = and
3 5
3
cosβ = .
5
1 .2
From (1) t = ⇒ t = 1 .2 5 .
cos α
1 .2 1 .2 ⋅ 5 6
From (3) t − T = ⇒T = 1 . 2 5 − ⇒ T = 1 .2 5 − 2 ⇒ T = −2.
cos β 3 5

Problem MEC3_22.
A projectile is fired from a point O on level ground with speed 13 ms −1 at an angle of elevation
12
α, where tan α = . The projectile just clears the top of a wall in its path and then reaches a
5
maximum height of twice the height of the wall. At the instant of projection, a target is fired
horizontally from the top of the wall and continues to move horizontally with constant speed U
in the plane of the path of the projectile away from O. Find the value of U, given that the
projectile hits the target.

Answer: 10 ( 2 − 1 ms) −1
.

Solution: Axes and origin:

Initial conditions when t = 0 :

projectile target

x1 = 0, y1 = 0 , x2 = d , y2 = h ,

x&1 = V cos α , x& 2 = U ,

y&1 = V sin α , y& 2 = 0 .

 Equations of motion

x1 = V cos α ⋅ t , (1)
x2 = d + U t , (3)
gt 2
y1 = V sin α ⋅ t − , ( 2) y2 = h, ( 4)
2

Let Tm be the time when the projectile reaches its greatest height. Then t = Tm , y&1 = 0 ⇒

V sin α
from (2) V sin α − g Tm = 0 ⇒ Tm = ;
g
g Tm2
t = Tm , y1 = 2h ⇒ from (2) 2h = V sin α ⋅ Tm − ⇒
2
2
(V sin α )2 g  V sin α  V 2 sin 2 α
2h = −   ⇒ h= .
g 2 g  g

Let T be the time when the projectile reaches the height h . Hence t = T , y1 = h ⇒ from (2)
gT2 2V sin α 2h
V sin α ⋅ T − = h ⇒ T2 − T+ = 0 ; Solving this quadratic,
2 g g

V sin α V 2 sin 2 α 2 h V 2 sin 2 α

T= ± − . But h = ,
g g2 g g

V sin α  1  V sin α  1 
so we have T = 1 −  or T = 1 + .
g  2 g  2

V sin α  1 
Here T− : = 1 −  is the time when the projectile just clears the wall and
g  2
V sin α  1 
T+ : = 1 +  is the time of collision. Hence t = T− , x1 = d ⇒ from (1)
g  2
V sin α  2 − 1  2 − 1
d = V cosα ⋅ T− ⇒ d = V cos α ⋅ 
d  2 
 ; d = 6
 2 
 ⇒ d = 3 2 − 2 m. ( )
d
t = T+ , x1 = x2 ⇒ from (1) and (3) V cos α ⋅ T + = d + U ⋅ T + , U = V cos α − and
T+

V cos α sin α  2 −1 
2
1
U = V cos α −  
g 
 (
2  ((V sin α ) / g ) ⋅ ( 2 + 1) / 2
;
)
 2 −1  2
U = V cos α − V cos α  ; U = V cos α ⋅ ;
 2 +1  2 + 1
 

U = 2V cos α ( )
2 − 1 ; U = 10 ( )
2 − 1 ms
−1
.
Problem MEC3_23.
A particle is projected from a point O on level ground with speed V at an angle of elevation α .
The particle just clears a wall of height h at a distance d from O. Show that if the speed of
projection is fixed, the particle hits the ground at a distance c beyond the wall, where
{ }
g d 2 c 2 + (c + d ) h2 = 2 d hV 2c .
2

Solution: Axes and origin:

Initial conditions when t = 0 :

x = 0, y = 0 ;
x& = V cos α, y& = V sin α .
Equation of motion
g t2
x = V cos α ⋅ t (1), y = V sin α ⋅ t − . (2)
2
d d g d2
x = d ⇒ from (1) t = , then y = h ⇒ from (2) h = V sin α ⋅ − ⋅ 2 ⇒
V cos α V cos α 2 V cos2 α
g d2 1 gd 2 1
h = d tan α − ⋅ ⋅ ⇒ V 2
= ⋅ . (3)
2 cos α V
2 2
2 cos α d tan α − h
2

Let T be the time when the particle hits the ground. Then y = 0 ⇒ from (2)
gT 2V sin α
0 = V sin α − ⇒ T= .
2 g
2V 2 cos α sin α
t = T ⇒ from (1) c + d = V cos α ⋅ T ⇒ c + d = . Hence using (3),
g
2 cos α sin α gd 2 1 d 2 tan α dh
c= ⋅ ⋅ −d⇒ c= −d⇒ c= .
g 2 cos α ( d tan α − h)
2
d tan α − h d tan α − h
2V 2 gd 2 1
We have c = cos α sin α − d , h = d tan α − 2 ⋅ .
g 2V cos 2 α
cos α ⋅ sin α tan α 1
But cos α ⋅ sin α = = , and = 1 + tan 2 α . Hence
cos α + sin α 1 + tan α
2 2 2
cos α
2

tan α
( )
2 2
2V gd
c+d = ⋅ , h = d tan α − 2 1 + tan 2 α . From here, obviously,
g 1 + tan α 2
2V
tan α
(c + d ) ,
g
= (4)
1 + tan α 2V 2
2

h tan α gd 2
= d − . (5)
1 + tan 2 α 1 + tan 2 α 2V 2
 gd 2
( )
h dg h dgc
Substituting (4) into (5), = c + d − ⇒ = ⇒
1 + tan α 2V
2 2
2V 2
1 + tan α 2V 2
2

2hV 2 2 hV 2
1 + tan α =
2
, and hence tan α = −1 .
dgc dgc
Substituting these expressions for 1 + tan 2 α and tan α into (4),
2 hV 2 2 2  2 hV 
2
( ) dc
c + d
h
= − 1 ⇒ ( c + d ) 2 2
h = d c  − 1 ⇒
dgc  dgc 
{ }
g d 2 c 2 + (c + d ) h2 = 2 d hV 2c .
2

Problem MEC3_24.
A particle is projected with speed V at an angle of elevation α from a point A on the edge of a
cliff of height h. Simultaneously another particle is projected with speed 2V at an angle of
elevation β from a point B, distance d from the foot of the cliff, the trajectories of the two
particles being in the same vertical plane. If the two particles collide, show that
h
2 sin (β + γ ) = sin (α + γ ), where γ = tan
-1
.
d

Solution: Axes and origin:

Initial conditions when t = 0

x1 = 0, y1 = h ; x2 = d , y2 = 0 ;
x&1 = V cos α ; x& 2 = 2V cos β ;
y&1 = V sin α ; y& 2 = 2V sin β ;

Equation of motion
x1 = V cosα ⋅ t , (1) x2 = d + 2V cosβ ⋅ t , (3)

g t2 g t2
y1 = h + V sin α ⋅ t − , (2) y2 = 2V sin β ⋅ t − . (4)
2 2

When the particles collide, their coordinates are equal. Hence

d
x1 = x2 ⇒ from (1) and (3) V cos α ⋅ t = d + 2V cos β ⋅ t ⇒ t = .
V (cos α − 2 cos β)
 h
y1 = y2 ⇒ from (2) and (4) h + V sin α ⋅ t = 2V sin β ⋅ t ⇒ t = .
V (2sin β − sin α )
d h
Equating the two expressions for the time of collision t , = .
cos α − 2 cos β 2 sin β − sin α
h
But = tan γ ⇒ (2 sin β − sin α ) cos γ = sin γ (cos α − 2 cos β) ⇒
d
2(sin β cos γ + cos β sin γ ) = sin α cos γ + cos α sin γ ⇒ 2sin (β + γ ) = sin (α + γ ) .

Problem MEC3_25.
A particle is projected from a point O up a plane inclined at an angle α above the horizontal.
The speed of projection is V and the angle of elevation θ, where θ > α . Find
(a) the range of the particle on the inclined plane;
(b) the maximum range up the plane.

2V cos θ sin (θ − α )
2 2
V
Answer: , .
g cos α
2
g (1 + sin α )

Solution: Axes and origin:

Initial conditions when t = 0

x = 0, y = 0 ;
x& = V cos( θ − α ) ;
y& = V sin(θ − α ) .
Equations of motion:
x = − g sin α ,
&& &&y = − g cos α ,
x& = V cos( θ − α ) − g sin α ⋅ t , y& = V sin(θ − α ) − g cos α ⋅ t ,
g sin α 2 g cos α 2
x = V cos(θ − α ) ⋅ t − ⋅ t . (1) y = V sin(θ − α ) ⋅ t − ⋅ t . (2)
2 2
(a) Let T be the time when the particle reaches the inclined plane and R be the range on
g cos α 2V sin(θ − α)
this plane. Then y = 0 ⇒ from (2) V sin( θ − α ) − ⋅T = 0 ⇒ T = .
2 g cos α
2V sin (θ − α) g  2V  sin 2 (θ − α)
2

t = T ⇒ from (1) R = V cos(θ − α) ⋅ ⋅ − sin α  ⋅ ⇒

g cos α 2  g cos 2 α
 2V 2 sin(θ − α ) 2V 2 sin(θ − α )
R=
g cos 2 α
cos( {
θ − α ) cos α − sin (θ − α ) sin}α ⇒ R =
g cos 2 α
⋅ cos(θ − α + α) ⇒

2V 2 cos θ sin (θ − α)
R= .
g cos 2 α
2V 2
(b) From (a) R = cos θ sin(θ − α ) . (3)
g cos 2 α
Let f (θ): = cos θ sin (θ − α ) . Hence f (θ) = cos θ(sin θ cos α − cos θ sin α ) ⇒
sin 2θ cos α cos2 θ sin α sin 2θ cos α (1 + cos 2θ )sin α
f (θ ) = − ⇒ f (θ ) = − ⇒
2 2 2 2
sin 2θ cos α − cos 2θ sin α sin α sin(2θ − α ) − sin α
f (θ ) = − ⇒ f (θ) = .
2 2 2
π
This function has the maximum value as 2θ − α = . And hence this value
2
1 − sin α 2V 2 1 − sin α
fm = . Hence, from (3) the maximum range Rm = ⋅ ⇒
2 g cos 2 α 2
V 2 1 − sin α V2
Rm = ⋅ ⇒ R = .
g 1 − sin 2 α g(1 + sin α)
m

Problem MEC3_26.
A particle is projected with speed V from the top of a cliff of height h above sea level. Find the
greatest horizontal distance the particle can cover before landing in the sea.

V
Answer: V
2
+ gh .
g

Solution:

Initial conditions when t = 0

x = 0, y = h ;
x& = V cos α ; y& = V sin α .
Point O is the foot of the cliff, α is the angle of elevation.
After t seconds the particle is at position
x = V cos α ⋅ t , (1)
 g t2
y = h + V sin α ⋅ t − . (2)
2
When the particle hits the ground, y = 0 . Hence from (2) for the time, when y = 0 ,

( )
2
2V 2h V sin α  V sin α  h 1
t −
2
sin α ⋅ t − =0, t = +   + , t = V sin α + V sin α + gh .
2 2

g g g  g  g g
Substituting this value of t into (1), we obtain the horizontal distance covered before landing in
V cos α 
 V sin α + (V sin α) + gh  .
2
the sea: x =
g  

(
Let the function f (α): = cos α sin α + sin 2 α + a , ) (3)

V2
f (α ) .
gh
Where a = . Then x =
V2 g
2
sin 2α  sin 2α 
It is easy to see that f (α ) = +   + a cos α .
2

2  2 
sin 2α cos 2α − a sin 2α
The derivative of this function is f ′(α) = cos 2α + .
2
 sin 2α 
2   + a cos α
2
 2 
If we want to find the maximum value of f (α ) and hence the greatest horizontal distance
required, we must solve the equation f ′(α) = 0 :
2
 sin 2α 
2 cos 2α ⋅   + a cos α = sin 2α cos 2α − a sin 2α .
2
 2 
 sin 2α  2 
 + a cos α  = sin 2α(cos 2α − a) ;
2
Squaring, 4 cos 2α 
2 2 2

 2  
sin 2α cos 2α + 4a cos 2α cos α = sin 2α cos 2 2α − 2 a sin 2 2α cos 2α + a 2 sin 2 2α ;
2 2 2 2 2

4 cos 2 2α cos2 α = a sin 2 2α − 2 sin 2 2α cos 2α . But cos 2α = 2 cos 2 α − 1 , hence

( )
4 cos 2 2α cos 2 α = a sin 2 2α − 2 sin 2 2α( 2 cos2 α − 1) , 4 cos 2 α cos2 2α + sin 2 2α = (a + 2) sin 2 2α ,
a +1
cos 2 α = (2 sin α cos α ) , sin 2 α =
4 1
⇒ cos 2 α =
2
.
a+2 a+2 a+2
a +1  1 1 
Hence from (3) the maximum value of f (α ) is f m =  + + a ,
a+2  a+2 a+2 
a +1  1 a +1  a +1
fm =  +  , fm = ⋅ a + 2 = a +1 ;
a+2  a+2 a+2 a+2
V2
f (α ) .
gh 1
a = 2 ⇒ fm = V 2 + gh . But x =
V V g
V
Hence the greatest horizontal distance x m = V
2
+ gh .
g

Problem MEC3_27.
A particle of mass 0.25 kg is attached to one end of light inextensible string of length 0.5 m.
The other end is fixed to a point A on a smooth horizontal table. The particle is set in motion in a
circular path. If the string breaks when the tension in it exceeds 50 N, find the greatest angular
velocity at which the particle can travel.

Answer: 20 rad s −1 .

Solution: Forces on P

Here T is the tension in the inextensible string whose length is l = 0,5 m, and N is the reaction
ν2
force. Observed acceleration is a = .
l
mν
2

Hence the vector sum of forces on P is towards A .

l
mν mν
2 2

The resultant has horizontal component m a = ⇒T = ; The string breaks if T > 50 N .

l l
1 1
mν  50 ⋅ l  2 ν  50  2
2

Hence from (a) ≤ 50 ⇒ ν ≤   . But ω = ⇒ ω ≤   ;

l  m  l  m⋅l 
m = 0,25, l = 0,5 ⇒ ω ≤ 20 rad s −1 .

Problem MEC3_28.
A mass of 1 kg is fastened by a string of length 1 m to a point 0.5 m above a smooth horizontal
table and is describing a circle on the table with uniform angular speed of 1 revolution in 2
seconds. Find the force exerted on the table and the tension in the string.

π2
Answer: g − N, π N.
2

Solution: Dimension diagram Forces on P

2π
l = 1 m, h = 0,5 m, ω = = π rad s −1 .
2
Observed acceleration is a = r ω 2 , where r = l 2 − h2 . Hence the vector sum of
forces on P is m a = mr ω 2 . The resultant has a horizontal component
mr ω 2 r
mr ω 2 ⇒ T sin θ = mr ω 2 ⇒ T = . But sin θ = ⇒ T = m ω 2 l ; (1)
sin θ l
m = 1, l = 1,ω = π ⇒ T = π 2 N .
The resultant has a vertical component zero ⇒ T cosθ + N = mg ⇒ from (1)
h
N = mg − m ω 2 l cos θ . But cosθ = ⇒ N = mg − m ω 2 h ;
l
π 2

m = 1, h = 0 .5 ,ω = π ⇒ N = g − N.
2

Problem MEC3_29.
One end of a light inextensible string of length l is attached to a fixed point O which is at a
1
height l above a smooth horizontal table. A particle of mass m is attached to the other end of
3
the string and rests on the table with the string taut. The particle is set in motion so that it moves
in a circle on the table with constant speed v.
(a) Find the tension in the string and the reaction exerted on the particle by the table;
8g l
(b) Show that ν 2 ≤ .
3

9m ν
2
 3ν 
2

Answer: , m  g −  .
8l  8 l 

Solution: Dimension diagram Forces on P

Observed acceleration is a =
ν2
r
, where r = l 2 − l 2 / 9 = ( )
8 / 3 ⋅ l . Hence the vector sum of

m ν2
forces on P is m a = and directed towards C .
r
m ν2 m ν2 m ν2
(a) The resultant has a horizontal component ⇒ T sin θ = ⇒ T= .
r r r sin θ
r 9 m ν2
But sin θ = ⇒T = .
l 8l
 9 m ν2
The resultant has a vertical component zero ⇒ T cosθ + N = mg ⇒ N = mg − cos θ .
8l
1  3 ν2 
But cosθ = ⇒ N = m g − .
3  8l 
 3 ν2  8gl
(b) As N ≥ 0 , then from (a) m  g −  ≥0⇒ ν ≤
2
.
 8l  3

Problem MEC3_30.
A particle of mass 0.1 kg moving on a smooth horizontal table with constant speed v ms −1
describes a circle with centre O and radius r m. The particle is attached towards O by a force of
k
magnitude 4vN and repelled from O by a force of magnitude N where k is a constant. If
r
r = 1 , find the set of possible values of k.

Answer: 0 < k ≤ 40 .

Solution: Forces on the particle

k
where T1 = 4 v , T2 = , k >0.
r
If the particle describes a circle, its velocity v > 0 . Find the values of v in accordance with k .
k k mv 2
The resultant force on the particle is T1 − T2 = 4 v − to O , hence 4v − = ⇒
r r r
4r k
v 2 − v + = 0 ; r = 1, m = 0 .1 ⇒ v 2 − 40 v + 10 k = 0 ⇒ v = 20 ± 400 − 10 k .
m m
Hence the values of v are positive if and only if 400 − 10k ≥ 0 ⇒ k ≤ 40 .
So we have 0 < k ≤ 40 .

Problem MEC3_31.
A particle of mass 0.2 kg moving on a smooth horizontal table with constant speed v ms −1
describes a circle with centre O such that OP = rm . The particle is subject to two forces, one
k
towards O with magnitude 8v N and one away from O with magnitude 2
N where k is a
r
π
positive constant. If the period of revolution is when v = 20 , find the values of r and k.
5

Answer: r = 2 , k = 480 .

Solution: Forces on P
 k
F1 = 8 v , F 2 = 2
, OP = r
r
ν2 m ν2
Observed acceleration is a = . Hence the vector sum of forces is ma = and directed to
r r
2πr Tν
O. Let T be the period of revolution. Then T = ⇒r= ;
ν 2π
π π 20
T = , ν = 20 ⇒ r = ⋅ ⇒ r = 2.
5 5 2π
m ν2 m ν2
The horizontal component of the resultant force is ⇒ F1 − F2 = ⇒
r r
k m ν2
8ν− 2 = ⇒ k = 8 ν r 2 − m ν2r ; r = 2, ν = 20, m = 0,2 ⇒ k = 480 .
r r

Problem MEC3_32.
The base of a hollow cone of semi-vertical angle 30 0 is fixed to a horizontal table. Two
particle each of mass m are connected by a light inextensible string which passes through a small
smooth hole in the vertex C of the cone. One particle A hangs at rest inside the cone while the
other particle B moves on the outer smooth surface of the cone in a horizontal circle with centre
A. Find
(a) the tension in the string and the normal reaction of the cone on B;
(b) the angular velocity of B.

( ) ( )
1 2
 2g 
Answer: m g 2 − 3 ,  2− 3  .
 l 

Solution: Dimension diagram

 π
θ=
6

Forces on A Forces on B

(a) The resultant force on A is zero ⇒ T = m g .

The resultant force on B is mr ω 2 horizontally to the left. Its a vertical component is zero
⇒ T cos θ + N sin θ = m g ⇒ N = m g 2 − 3 . ( )
(
(b) Its a horizontal component is mr ω 2 ⇒ T sin θ − N cos θ = mr ω 2 ⇒ r ω 2 = g 2 − 3 . )
( )
12
l  2g 
But r = ⇒ ω =  2− 3  .
2  l 

Problem MEC3_33.
A light inextensible string of length 5l has one end fixed at a point A and the other end fixed at
a point B which is at a distance 4l vertically below A. A particle P of mass m is fastened to the
midpoint of the string and moves with speed v, with the parts AP and BP of the string both taut,
in a horizontal circular path whose centre is the midpoint of AB.
(a) Find the tension in the two parts of the string.
(b) Show that the motion described can take place only if 8 v 2 > 9 gl .

2 2
5 5 mv 5 mv 5
Answer: AP : m g + , BP : − mg .
8 9 l 9 l 8

Solution: Dimension diagram Forces on P

5
AP = BP = l, AO = BO = 2 l
2
 mv 2
The resultant force on P is horizontal towards O of magnitude .
r
(a) The vertical component is zero ⇒ T2 cos θ − T1 cos θ = m g . (1)
2 2
mv mv
The horizontal component is ⇒ T2 sin θ + T1 sin θ = . (2)
r r
AO 4 3 3
But cos θ = ⇒ cos θ = ⇒ sin θ = , and r = AP2 − AO 2 ⇒ r = l .
AP 5 5 2
5
Hence from (1) T2 − T1 = m g , (3)
4
10 m v 2
and from (2) T2 + T1 = ⋅ . (4)
9 l
5 5 m v2 5 mv 2 5
(3) + (4) ⇒ T2 = m g + ; (4) - (3) ⇒ T1 = − mg .
8 9 l 9 l 8
(b) The motion described in the problem is possible if T1 > 0 , as the strings are both taut.
5 m v2 5
T1 > 0 ⇒ from (a) − m g > 0 ⇒ 8v 2 > 9 gl .
9 l 8

Problem MEC3_34.
A particle A of mass 2m is attached by a light inextensible string of length l to a fixed point O
and is also attached by another light inextensible string of the same length to a small ring B of
mass 3m which can slide on a fixed smooth vertical wire passing through O. The particle A
π
describes a horizontal circle with OA inclined at an angle with the downward vertical. Find
3
(a) the tension in the strings;
(b) the angular velocity of A.

8g
Answer: OA : 10 mg , AB : 6 m g ; .
l

Solution: Dimension diagram

 π
θ=
3

Forces on A Forces on B

AB is a light inextensible string, therefore T2 = T3 .

B is not moving, hence the resultant force on it is zero. Therefore for the vertical component of
3m g
the resultant we have T3 cos θ = 3m g ⇒ T3 = ⇒ T3 = 6 m g .
cos θ
The resultant force on A is 2 mr ω 2 directad to the left. Its vertical component is zero
2m g 3m g 5m g
⇒ T1 cos θ = T2 cos θ + 2 m g ⇒ T1 = T2 + . But T2 = T3 = ⇒ T1 = ⇒ T1 = 10 mg.
cos θ cos θ cos θ
The resultant on A has the horisontal component 2 mr ω 2 , hence T1 sin θ + T2 sin θ = 2mr ω 2 . But
T1 + T2 1 8g
r = l sin θ ⇒ ω 2 = ⋅ ⇒ω= .
2m l l

Problem MEC3_35.
Two light rigid rods AB and BC, each of length 2m, are smoothly jointed at B and the rod AB is
smoothly jointed at A to a fixed smooth vertical rod. The joint at B has a particle of mass 2 kg
attached. A small ring of mass 1 kg is smoothly jointed to BC at C and can slide on the vertical
rod below A. The ring rests on a smooth horizontal ledge fixed to the vertical rod at a distance
2 3 m below A. The system rotates about the vertical rod with constant angular velocity ω.
(a) Find the forces in the rods and the force exerted on the ring by the ledge;
2g
(b) What happens to the system when ω 2 > ?
3

2g 2g
Answer: AB : 2 ω 2 + , BC : 2 ω −
2
, 2 g − 3 ω 2 ; the ring lifts off the ledge.
3 3

Solution: Dimension diagram

 l = 2m, AC = 2 3 m .

Forces on B Forces on C

The resultant force on B is 2 m r ω2 to the left. Its a horizontal component is 2 m r ω2 , hence

T1 sin θ + T 2 sin θ = 2 m r ω , where r = l sin θ . Its a vertical component is zero, hence
2

3
T1 cos θ = T 2 cos θ + 2 m g , where cos θ = . So we have two equations:
2
T1 + T 2 = 2 m l ω ,
2
(1)
4m g
T1 − T2 = ; (2)
3
2m g 2g
(1) + (2) ⇒ T1 = ml ω 2 + ⇒ T1 = 2 ω 2 + ;
3 3
2m g 2g
(1) - (2) ⇒ T2 = ml ω 2 − ⇒ T2 = 2 ω 2 − .
3 3
The rod BC is light, hence T3 = T2 . The resultant force on C is zero. So for its vertical
 2g  3
component we have N 2 + T3 cosθ = m g ⇒ N 2 = g −  2ω 2 − ⋅ ⇒
 3 2
N2 = 2 g − 3 ω2 . (3)
 2g 2g
(b) If the ring rests on a ledge, then N 2 ≥ 0 and hence from (3) ω 2 ≤ . So if ω 2 > the
3 3
ring lifts off the ledge.

Problem MEC3_36.
A small ring C cam move freely on a light inextensible string. The two ends of the string are
attached to points A and B, where A is vertically above B and at a distance c from it. When the
ring C is describing a horizontal circle with constant angular velocity ω, the distances of C from
{
A and B are b and a respectively. Show that 2 gc ( a + b) = ω 2 ( a − b) c 2 − ( a + b) .
2
}
Solution: Dimension diagram Forces on C

AB = c

The resultant force is m ω 2 r horizontally to the left. The vertical component is zero, hence
T cos α − T cos β = mg (1)
The horizontal component is m ω 2 r , hence
T sin α + T sin β = m ω 2 r (2)
mg m ω 2r
From (1) T = , analogously from (2) T = . Equating these expressions
cos α − cos β sin α + sin β
for T , g(sin α + sin β) = ω 2 r (cos α − cos β) . But r = a sin β , and dividing the last equation by
 sin α 1 sin β 1  sin β sin α sin β
ab , we obtain g 
 a b
⋅ +
b a
⋅  = ω2
b
( cos α − cos β) . For only triangle
a
=
b
,

 1 1
hence g  +  = ω 2 (cos α − cos β) . (3)
 b a
In the triangle ABC we have a 2 = b2 + c 2 − 2bc ⋅ cos α, b2 = a 2 + c 2 − 2 ac ⋅ cos β ⇒
b2 + c 2 − a 2 a 2 + c 2 − b2
cosα = , cosβ = . Substituting cos α and cosβ into (3),
2bc 2ac
( a + b) 2 b + c − a a 2 + c 2 − b2 
{( ) ( )}
2 2 2
=ω  −  , 2 gc ( a + b) = ω a b + c − a − b a + c − b ,
2 2 2 2 2 2 2
g
ab  2bc 2 ac 
{ ( ) ( )} ,
2 gc ( a + b) = ω 2 c 2 ( a − b) + b3 − a 3 + ab2 − ba 2

2 gc ( a + b) = ω {c ( a − b) − ( a − b)( a + ab + b ) − ( a − b)ab} ,
2 2 2 2

{
2 gc ( a + b) = ω 2 ( a − b) c 2 − ( a + b) .
2
}
Problem MEC3_37.
A particle hangs by a light inextensible string of length l from a fixed point O. A second
particle of the same mass hangs from the first particle by a second string of the same length. The
whole system moves with constant angular velocity ω about the vertical through O, the upper
and lower strings making angles α and β respectively with the vertical. Show that
l ω2   l ω2
(sin α + sin β) .
1
(a) tan α =  sin α + sin β ; (b) tan β =
g  2  g

Solution: Dimension diagram

OP 1 = P1 P 2 = l

Forces on P1 Forces on P2

The resultant force on P1 is m ω 2 r horizontally to the left, where r = l sin α . The vertical
component is zero and the horizontal one is m ω 2 r . Hence we have
T1 cos α − T2 cos β = mg , (1)
T1 sin α − T2 sin β = m ω l sin α .
2
(2)
The resultant force on P2 is m ω R horizontally to the left, where R = l (sin α + sin β) . The
2

vertical component is zero and the horizontal one is m ω 2 R . Hence we have

T2 cosβ = mg , (3)
T2 sin β = m ω l (sin α + sin β) .
2
(4)
(a) Substituting (3) into (1), T1 cos α = 2 mg , (5)
and substituting (4) into (2), T1 sin α = m ω 2l ( 2 sin α + sin β ) . (6)
lω  2
1 
Dividing (6) by (5), tan α =  sin α + sin β .
g  2 
l ω2
(b) Dividing (4) by (3), tan β =
g
(sin α + sin β) .

Problem MEC3_38.
−1
A car describes a horizontal circle of radius 100 m at a speed of 60 kmh on a track which is
5
banked at an angle α . Taking g = 10 ms −2 show that if tan α = , the car has no tendency to
18
slip.

Solution: Dimension diagram Forces on C

Here F is a friction force on C from the surface. N is a reaction force. If the car has no
tendency to slip sideways, then F must equal zero. Find the value of F .
mv 2
The resultant force on C is horizontally to the left. The vertical component is zero
r
⇒ F sin α + N cos α = mg . (1)
mv 2 m v2
The horizontal component is ⇒ − F cos α + N sin α = (2)
r r

( 2 2
)
(1) × sin α − ( 2) × cos α ⇒ F ⋅ sin α + cos α = m g sin α −
m v2
r
cos α ⇒

 v2  100 −1
F = m cos α g tan α −  ; v = 60 k mh−1 = m s , r = 100 m ⇒
 r 6
v2 5 104
g ⋅ tan α − = 10 ⋅ − = 0 , and hence F = 0 .
r 18 36 ⋅ 100

Problem MEC3_39.
A railway line has been constructed around a circular curve of radius 600 m. The distance
between the rails is 1.5 m and the outside rail is 0.1 m above the inside rail. Find the speed
which eliminates a sideways thrust on the wheels for a train on this curve.

Answer: 20 m s −1 if g = 10 ms −2 and 19 . 8 m s −1 if g = 9 . 81 ms −2 .

Solution: Dimension diagram Forces on the wheels

 h = 0 .1; l = 1 . 5; r = 600 .

If a sideways trust is eliminated, then the only force on the wheels exerted by rails is a reaction
mv 2
force N at right angle to the surface of the rails. The resultant force on the wheels is
r
horizontally to the right.
mg
The vertical component is zero ⇒ N cos α = m g ⇒ N = . (1)
cos α
mv 2 m v2 r N sin α
The horizontal component is ⇒ N sin α = ⇒ v2 = and from (1)
r r m
h 0 .1 1
v 2 = r g tan α . But tan α = ⇒ tan α = = .
l 1 .5 15
1/ 2
 1
Hence v =  600 ⋅ g ⋅  ⇒ v = 20 m s −1 if g = 10 and v = 19 . 8 m s −1 if g = 9 . 81 .
 15

Problem MEC3_40.
A railway line is taken round a circular bend of radius 1000 m. The distance between the rails
is 1.5 m and the line is banked by raising the outer rail a height h above the inner rail. For an
engine travelling around the bend, the sideways thrust on the inner rail at 10 ms −1 is equal to the
sideways thrust on the outer rail at 20 ms −1 . Find the value of h.

Answer: 38.3 mm.

Solution: Dimension diagram

Forces on engine
 −1 −1
at v 1 = 10 ms at v 2 = 20 ms

R = 1000 m is the radius of a circular bend.

In each case, the resultant force is directed horizontally to the centre of the circle with magnitude
m ν2 m ν2
, so the vertical components sum to zero, while the horizontal components sum to .
R R
N1 cos θ + F sin θ = m g , (1) N 2 cos θ − F sin θ = m g , (3)
m ν12 m ν22
N1 sin θ − F cos θ = , (2) N 2 sin θ + F cos θ = . (4)
R R
 ν2 cos θ 
(1) × sin θ − ( 2) × cos θ ⇒ F = m  g sin θ − 1 ;
 R 
 ν22 cos θ 
( 4) × cos θ − (3) × sin θ ⇒ F = m  − g sin θ .
 R 
ν 12 + ν 22
(
Eliminating F , 2 g sin θ = ν12 + ν22 ) cosR θ ⇒ tan θ =
2g R
⇒ tan θ = 0 . 0255 .

But sin θ ≡ θ ≡ tan θ , for θ small. Hence h = l ⋅ sin θ ≡ 1 .5 ⋅ tan θ⇒ h = 38 .3 mm .