Center of Mass

LECTURE 1
Center of Mass of Discrete System

m1X1 + m2X2
XCOM =
m1 + m2
Center Of Mass
 Introduction
If we throw a pen, if performs rotational motion but a special point performs
translatory motion as shown:

This special point, where the entire mass of system is supposed to be concentrated is called as COM
COM is defined for the system of particles :

System of Particles

Discrete System Continuous System

COM of Discrete particle system

m1
COM

r1 m2
mn
r2
rn
j

i
 COM of Discrete particle system
➔ Consider a coordinate system having X, Y and Z axis
➔ Consider m1, m2, m3, …. be the point masses
➔ These masses have position vectors r1 , r2 , r3 , …. respectively
➔ The COM of entire system is having position vector rCOM

m1r1 + m2r2 + m3r3 ….. m1 m2

rCOM =
m1 + m2 + m3…..
r2 COM
r1 m3

r3
x

z
If we known the x, y, z coordinates for individual object we can find
the x, y, z coordinates for COM :

m1 x1 + m2 x2 + m3 x3 + . . . .
XCOM =
m1 + m 2 + m3 + . . . .

m1 y1 + m2 y2 + m3 y3 + . . . .
YCOM =
m1 + m2 + m3 + . . . .

m1 z1 + m2 z2 + m3 z3 + . . . .
ZCOM =
m1 + m2 + m3 + . . . .
 Velocity of COM

15 m/s

10 m/s
1 kg

3 kg
 Velocity of COM
➔ Let masses m1, m2, m3…. have velocities v1, v2, v3, …. respectively
➔ Then COM has Velocity vCOM
y v1
m1r1 + m2r2 + m3r3 ….. m2 v2
RCOM = m1
m1 + m2 + m3….. vCOM
r2 COM v3
r1
m3
r3
x

z
Just by differentiating the formula, we can find the velocity of COM

m1r1 + m2r2 + m3r3 …..

RCOM =
m1 + m2 + m3…..

d d d
m1 r1 + m2 r2 + m3 r3 ……
d dt dt dt
rCOM =
dt m1 + m2 + m3 ……

m1 v1 + m2 v2 + m3 v3 ……
VCOM =
m1 + m2 + m3 ……
 Acceleration of COM

2 m/s2
1 kg

7 m/s2
3 kg
Acceleration of COM
➔ Let masses m1, m2, m3…. have accelerations a1, a2, a3, … respectively
➔ Then COM has Acceleration aCOM

y a1
m1v1 + m2v2 + m3v3 ….. m1 m2 a2
vCOM =
m1 + m2 + m3….. ACOM
r2 COM a3
r1
m3
r3
x

z
Just by differentiating the formula, we can find the acceleration of COM

vCOM m1v1 + m2v2 + m3v3 …..

=
m1 + m2 + m3…..

d d d
m1 v 1 + m2 v2 + m3 v3 ……
d dt dt dt
VCOM =
dt m1 + m2 + m3 ……

m1 a1 + m2 a2 + m3 a3 ……
aCOM = m1 + m2 + m3 ……
Numericals on COM
Example Locate the position of COM of masses m1 and m2 separated by distance d.

m1 m2
(0,0)
(d,0)
Solution:
➔ Consider a coordinate system such that m1 lies at origin
➔ Let coordinate of COM are (XCM, YCM)

m1 x1 + m2 x2 y
XCM =
m1 + m2

xCM

m1 m2
x
(0, 0) (XCM, (d, 0)
YCM)
d
 y
m1(0) + m2(d)
X cm =
m 1 + m2
m2d xCM
X cm =
m1 + m 2 m1 m2
x
(0, 0) (XCM, YCM) (d, 0)
Similarly,
m1 y1 + m2y2 d
YCM =
m 1 + m2
m1(0) + m2(0)
YCM =
m 1 + m2

YCM = 0
Note If m1 = m2 then COM lies in the middle of m1 and m2

If m1 > m2 then COM lies in Closer to m1

If m1 < m2 then COM lies in Closer to m2

COM lies closer to a body heavier in mass.

Example Locate the position of COM of following system of particles.

a , √3 a
M
2 2

2M
M
x
(0, 0) (a, 0)
Solution:
y

a √3
M , a Let coordinate of
2 2
COM are (XCM, YCM)
COM

(XCM, YCM) 2M
M x
(0, 0) (a, 0)

a
5M a 5a
M (0) + 2M (a) + M 2 XCM =
XCM = = 8
M + 2M + M 2 (4M)
 y

√3 a √3
M (0) + 2M (0) + M a M , a
YCM = 2 √3 Ma 2 2
=
2 ( 4M ) COM
M + 2M + M
(XCM, YCM) 2M
M x
(0, 0) (a, 0)
√3
YCM = a
8
Example Locate the X coordinate of COM of following system of particles

A. 45.5a
B. 49.5a
C. 50a
D. 49a

M M M M . . . . . . . M
.
(0, 0) (a, 0) (2a, 0) (3a, 0) (99a, 0)
Solution:
There is no need to calculate YCM because
all masses lies on X-axis

M M M … M
M
(0, 0) (a, 0) (2a, 0) (3a, 0) (99a, 0)

M(0) + M(a) + M(2a)….+ M(99a)

XCM =
M + M + M …….. + M

a M [1 + 2 + 3……+ 99] 99 100 a

= = ×
100 M 2 100
99 a
= XCM = 49.5a
2
Example Locate COM of cube of side a such that a point mass M is placed at each
vertex ? Y

M M

M M

M M
X

M M
a
Z
Solution:
Let us first assign
M (0) + M (a) + M (0) + M(0) +M(a) +
coordinates to all
M(0) + M(a) +m (a)
XCM = the masses
8M
4Ma y
= (0, a, 0)
8M M M
(a, a, 0)
(a, a, a)
a
XCM = M
2 (0, a, a) M
M
Similarly, (0,0,0) M x
(a, 0, 0)
a M
YCM = ZCM = (0, 0, a)
2 M (a, 0, a)
z a
Example Find the acceleration of COM, when system is released from rest.
g = 10 m/s2

2 kg

3 kg
Solution:
Let’s draw the free body diagram of masses

M1 a1 + M2 a2
ACM = By NLM
M1 + M2
30 – T = 3a T
3 × (– 2) + 2 (+2) T – 20 = 2a
ACM = T
3+2 5a = 10
2 kg a
a = 2ms–2

ACM = –2 ms–2
5 a 3 kg
20
30
Example 2 identical masses are released from a fixed smooth inclined plane as
shown below. Find acm (in X & Y directions) g = 10 m/s2
A. 2 ms–2 , –5 ms–2
B. 1 ms–2 , 5 ms–2
C. 0 ms–2 , –5 ms–2
D. 2 ms–2 , 5 ms–2

530 370
530 370
Solution:

90 The acceleration of
0 a2
a1 mass on smooth inclined
plane is g sin Q

530 370 Resolve the acceleration into

horizontal and vertical
components
a1 = 10 sin 530 a2 = 10 sin 370
4 3
= 10 × = 10 ×
5 5
40 30
= =
5 5
= 8 ms–2 = 6 ms–2
a1x = 8 cos 530 = 8 ´ 3 = 24 ms–2
5 5
a2x = 6 cos 370
a1y = 8 sin 530 = 8 ´ 4 = 32 ms–2
a1x = 8 cos 530

530 370
5 5
a2y = 6 sin 370

a2x = 6 cos 370= 6 ´ 4 = 24 ms–2 a2 = 6

5 5 a1 = 8 a1y = 8 sin 530

a2y = 6 sin 370 = 6 ´ 3 = 18 ms–2

5 5
 –24 24 M –32 + M
–18 –50
M + M = ms–2
5 5 5 5 5 ( 2)
aCMx = aCMy =
2M 2M

aCMx = 0 ms–2 aCMy = –5 ms–2

 Center of Mass
LECTURE 2
C.O.M of Continuous System

COM

COM
2R 4R
π 3π
Semi Ring Semi Disk
Example 3 identical balls are projected in three different directions as shown below.
Find Time of Flight, Maximum Height & Range of COM!

u2
u1 u3
 u2 uCOM
u1 u3
Solution:
Given
v1 = –3 Î + 4 ĵ ms–1 a1 = – g ĵ ms–2

v2 = 4 ĵ ms–1 a2 = – g ĵ ms–2

v3 = 6 Î + 4 ĵ ms–1 a3 = – g ĵ ms–2

M(v1 ) + M(v2 ) + M(v3 )

VCM =
3M

–3 Î + 4 ĵ + 4ĵ +6Î +4ĵ
VCM =
3
 –3 Î + 4 ĵ + 4 ĵ + 6 Î+ 4 ĵ
VCM = Hence path followed by
3 center of mass is projectile

VCM =
3 Î + 12 ĵ ACM = M(a1 ) +M(a2 ) + M(a3 )
3 3M

VCM = Î + 4 ĵ ms–1 –gĵ +–gĵ + –gĵ

ACM =
3

ACM = – g ĵ ms–2
 y
VCM = I + 4 ĵms–1
g
ux = 1 ms–1
uy
uy = 4 ms–1 Hmax
COM x
ux
2 uy 2×4
T = = = 0.8 sec R
g 10
uy2 42
Hmax = = = 0.8 m
2g 2 ×10

R = ux T = 1 × 0.8 = 0.8 m
COM of Continuous Bodies
 COM of continuous body
➔ Consider a rigid body of mass M
➔ Consider elemental masses dm1, dm2, dm3… from origin having
position vectors r1 , r2 , r3 , respectively
➔ The COM of entire system is having position vector rCOM

y
dm1 dm2

r2 COM
r1
dm3

r3
x

z
 dm1 r1 + dm2 r2 + dm3 r3 +…..
∴ rCM =
dm1 + dm2 + dm3 +….. y
dm1 dm2
n
Σ dm r r2
i=1 i i r1 COM
rCM = n
dm3

Σ
i = 1 dmi
r3
x

∫ dm r z
rCM =
∫ dm
If we know x, y, z coordinates of elemental masses then we
can find XCM, YCM, ZCM of COM

∫ dm r
rCM =
∫ dm

dm1 x1 + dm2x2 + dm3x3 + . . . .

xCOM =
dm1 + dm2 + dm3 + . . . .

n
Σ dmi xi
i=1
XCM =
n
Σ dmi
i=1
 n
Σ dmi xi
i=1 Similarly, the YCM & ZCM of
XCM =
n center of mass can be calculated
Σ dmi
i=1

∫ dm x ∫ dm y
XCM = YCM =
∫ dm ∫ dm

∫ dm z
ZCM =
∫ dm
Numericals on C.O.M. of Continuous Bodies
 Example Locate the Centre of Mass of thin uniform rod of mass M & length L.

L X
Solution:
➔ Consider the coordinate axis as shown
➔ Consider an elemental mass dm at a distance x from origin
➔ The thickness of this elemental mass is dx
➔ Let, l be the linear mass density of rod
M y
l = kg m–1
L
dm = l dx dx

M dm
dm = dx
L M x
(0, 0)
(L, 0)
x
∫ dm x
L
XCM =
∫ dm
 L
∫dm x M
∫ x dx
XCM = L 0
XCM =
∫dm L
M ∫
dx
L L 0
M
∫ L
dx x
L
XCM = 0
∫ dx
L 0
M
∫ L
dx XCM =
L
0
∫ dx
0
 L
∫ x dx
0 L2 02
XCM = –
L 2 2
∫ XCM =
dx
0 L–0

L L2
x2 XCM =
2L
2
0
XCM =
L L
x XCM =
0 2
Example Locate the centre of mass of thin non-uniform rod of length L.
Linear Mass density (µ)
l0 x Y
µ = kg /m
L
where l0 is constant
X
A. (L/3 , 0) L
B. (2L/3 ,0)
C. (L/6 , 0)
D. (L/2 , 0)
Solution:
➔ Consider the coordinate axis as shown y
➔ Consider an elemental mass dm at a
distance x from origin
➔ The thickness of this elemental mass is dx dm
➔ Let, l be the linear mass density of rod
M,0 x
(0, 0) dx (L, 0)
l0 x
µ = kg m–1
L L

dm = µ dx
l0
dm = dx
L

XCM = ∫dm x
∫dm
 l L
∫dm x ∫ x2 dx
XCM = 0L
0
∫dm XCM =
l L

0L
∫ x dx
0

L
∫ l
0
x dx x L
0L
∫ x2 dx
XCM = 0
XCM =
L l L
∫ x dx ∫x dx
0L
0 0
 L
L3 03
∫ x2 dx
3
–
3
XCM = 0
L
XCM =
L2 02
∫ x dx –
0 2 2
L L3 L2
x3 XCM =
3 3 2
XCM 0
=
x2 L
XCM = 2L
2 0 3
Symmetric Bodies
The COM of uniform bodies is at there geometric centre

Ring Disc Square Plate

Cube Hollow Cylinder

 2R R H
π 2 3

Semi Ring Hollow Hemisphere Hollow Cone

4R 3R H
3π 8 4

Semi Disk Solid Hemisphere Solid Cone

Centre of Mass of a Uniform Semicircular Ring
Centre of Mass of a Uniform Semicircular Ring
Let M be the mass and R the radius of a uniform semicircular Ring

M,R

X
(0, 0)
 Y

M,R

X
(0, 0)
 π

XCOM =
1
∫M dθ (R cos θ)
M 0 π
y
π

XCOM R∫0 cosθdθ M, R

= π
COM
π 2R
0,
R ∫0 π
XCOM = cosθ dθ
π
x
R π
(0, 0)
XCOM = [sinθ]0
π
R
XCOM = [sin (π) – sin (0)]
π

XCOM = 0
λ = Linear Mass Density (Kg m–1) dx = R dθ
y
M M
λ= dm = Rdθ (R cos θ, R sin θ)
πR πR
dx, dm
M
dm = λ dx dm = dθ dθ
π R R sin θ
θ x
(0, 0) R cos θ
∫ dm x ∫dm y
XCOM =
YCOM =
∫ dm ∫dm
π
π
XCOM = ∫
1 M
dθ (R cos θ) 1 M
∫ dθ (R sin θ)
M0 π YCOM =
M0 π
 π
1 M
YCOM
M0 π
∫
dθ (R sin θ)
=
y
π

=∫
R sinθ dθ
YCOM M, R
0 π
COM
π 2R

YCOM =
R ∫ sinθ dθ
0, π
π 0

π x
YCOM = R [–cosθ] (0, 0)
π 0

R
YCOM = [(–cos π)–(–cos 00)]
π

YCOM 2R
π
=
Centre of Mass of Uniform Semi Disc
Centre of Mass of Uniform Semi Disc
Let M be the mass and R the radius of the Semi Disc

M, R

x
(0, 0)
 y

M, R

x
(0, 0)
Centre of Mass of Uniform Semi Disc
y
dA = Elemental area of semi-Ring (M, R)
2 dm
dA = π [y + dy] πy2
– 2 dy
2 0
dA = πy dy y
dA = π [y 2 + dy2 + 2ydy – y2]

2 x
σ = Surface Mass Density (Kg m–2) (0, 0)

M dm = σ dA
σ=
π R2 2M πy dy
2 dm =
πR2
2M 2M
σ= dm = y dy
π R2 R
2
 y
(M, R)
2M y dy dm
dm = 2 dy
R
y

XCOM
=
∫dm x′ x
(0, 0)
∫ dm
R
XCOM =
1 ∫
dm(0) X′ and Y′ are coordinates of
M 0
COM of elemental semi-ring
2y
XCOM = 0 which is 0,
π
 ∫dm y’ y
YCOM =
∫dm (M, R)
dm
dy
R
YCOM = 1 ∫ 2M
y dy
2y
π
y
M 0 R2 x
(0, 0)
R
4
YCOM =
πR2 0
∫
y2 dy

R
4 y3
YCOM=
πR2 3 0
4R
YCOM =
3π
Centre of Mass of Uniform Semi Disc
y
XCOM = 0 (M, R)

COM
4R
0,
4R 3π
YCOM =
3π
x
(0, 0)
 Center of Mass
LECTURE 3
C.O.M. Applications

COM
M
R/2

3M COM
Center of Mass of Discrete System
Center of Mass of Continuous Bodies

∫ dm x
XCM =
∫ dm

∫ dm y
YCM =
∫ dm

∫ dm z
ZCM =
∫ dm
 2R R H
π 2 3

Semi Ring Hollow Hemisphere Hollow Cone

4R 3R H
3π 8 4

Semi Disk Solid Hemisphere Solid Cone

Hollow Hemisphere
Centre of Mass of a Hollow Hemisphere
y

dm,dA

M,R

x
Centre of Mass of a Hollow Hemisphere y dx = Rdθ

r = R sinθ dm,dA
y = R cosθ r

dA = 2πr dx M,R
y
dA = 2πR sinθ × Rdθ
θ
dA = 2πR2 sinθ dθ
x
σ = Surface Mass Density (Kg m–2)
M M
σ= dm = × 2πR2 sinθ dθ
2π R2 2πR2
dm = σ dA dm = M sinθ dθ
 r = R sinθ y dx = Rdθ
y = R cosθ

dm,dA
dm = M sinθ dθ r

XCOM=
∫dm x′ M,R
y
∫ dm ∫dm y’ R

YCOM = θ
∫dm x
R

XCOM =
1
∫ dm(0) π/2
M 0
YCOM=
1 ∫ (M sinθ dθ) R cosθ
M 0
XCOM = 0 X′ and Y′ are coordinates of
π/2 COM of elemental ring which
YCOM = R ∫(sinθ cosθ) dθ is [0, R cosθ]
0
XCOM = 0 π/2
y
YCOM =R ∫ (sinθ cosθ) dθ
0

π/2
∫ sin 2θ dθ
COM
R M,R 0, R
YCOM = 2 2
0
π/2 x
R – cos 2θ
YCOM =
2 2
0 π/2
R π
YCOM = – cos 2 × – (– cos 0)
4 2
0
R
YCOM =
2
Solid Hemisphere
y

dr
r

x
 Centre of Mass of a Solid Hemisphere
dV = πr2 dy y

dV = π(R2 – y2) dy dy
r

ρ = Volume Mass Density (Kg m–3) M,R

y
θ
M dm = ρ dV
ρ= x
2π R3
3M
3 dm = × π(R2 – y2) dy
2πR3
3M
ρ= 3M (R2 – y2) dy
2π R3 dm =
2R3
 y
3M (R2 – y2) dy
dm =
2R3 dy

∫ dm x′ ∫ dm y’ M,R
y
XCOM= YCO =
∫ dm M ∫ dm θ

x
R R
1
XCOM =
1
M0
∫dm(0) YCOM
M ∫ 3M (R2 – y2) dy y
= 0
2R3
X′ and Y′ are coordinates of
R COM of elemental disc
XCOM = 0
YCOM
2R3
∫
3 (R2y – y3) dy which is [0, y]

= 0
 y
XCOM = 0 R
3
∫
YCOM = 3 (R2y – y3) dy
2R
0
COM
R M,R 0,3R
8
3 R2y2 y4
YCOM = –
2R3 2 4 x
0

3 R4 R4
YCOM = –
2R3 2 4

3R
YCOM =
8
 COM at a GLANCE !

COM

2R H
π R
3
2
Semi Ring
Hollow Hemisphere Hollow Cone

COM 3R
4R 8 H
3π 4
Semi Disk Solid Hemisphere
Solid Cone
Numericals on COM of continuous body
Example Locate COM formed by semi ring of mass M & semi disc of mass 2M.
A. ( R/9π , 0 )
B. ( R/π , 0 )
C. ( 2R/9π , 0 )
D. None of these

Ring (M)

Disc (2M)

R
Solution:
The disk and ring can be considered as a point mass by assuming there
masses to be concentrated at there COM

y
–2R 4R
m π + 2m
3π Disc (2M)
XCM =
m + 2m
Ring (M)
(0,0)
2R –2R 4R x
XCM = π ,0 3π , 0
9π

Obviously the YCM of COM is zero

Example 2 rods of mass M & 2M and length L are joined as shown. Find COM of system.
A. (L/6 , L/3)
B. (L/3 , L/6)
Y
C. (L/3 , L/3)
D. (L/3 , L/4)

2M, L

M, L
Solution:
Consider the coordinate axis as shown

The rods can be considered as a point mass by assuming

there masses to be concentrated at there COM

L 2M, L
O,
2

M, L
(0,0) x

L ,O
2
 L L
2M (0) + M 2M + M(0)
2 2
XCM = YCM =
2M + M 2M + M

L
2M (0) + M L
2 2M + M(0)
XCM = 2
2M + M YCM =
2M + M
ML
XCM = ML
2x3M YCM =
3M
L L
XCM = YCM =
6 3
Example Locate COM of system of solid cone and solid sphere

Given ρs = 2ρc

Density = ρc kg m–3
370

ρc

R
R

ρs
Density =ρS kg m–3
Given ρs = 2ρc

370

R
R

3M
Solution:

R 3 Let the masses of cone and hemisphere are MC and Ms

= tan 370 = respectively
H 4
4 Given ρs = 2ρc
H = R
3
Mass = Volume × density 370

1 2π H
Mc = π R2H × ρc Ms = R3 × ρs
3 3
1 4R 2π ρc
Mc = π R2× × ρc Ms = R3 × (2ρc) R
3 3 3
4π 4π
Mc = R3ρc Ms = R3ρc
9 3
 4π 4π
Mc = R3ρc Ms = R3ρc
9 3

4π 3 Mc 1
R ρc =
Mc 9 Ms 3
=
Ms 4π 3
R ρc Ms = 3Mc
3
Mc
= 3
Ms 9
The cone and hemisphere can be considered as point masses by assuming there
entire mass to be concentrated at there COM

H –3R MS = 3MC
MC + MS
4 8
YC.M = 4 370
MC + MS H = R
3 Mc
MC 4R –3R 0, H
4
+ 3MC
4 3 8
YC.M =
(0,0) ρc
MC + 3MC R x

R 9R 0,–3R MS
8
–
YC.M = 3 8
4 – 19 R
YCM =
96
Example Locate XCOM of disc of mass M & radius R which contains a Cavity of radius R
2
R
A.
6 Mass = M

R
B. -
6
R/2
R origin
C. -
3
D. R R
3
Example Locate XCOM of disc of mass M & radius R which contains a Cavity of radius R
2
R
A.
6 Mass = M Mass = M

R
B. -
6
R/2 R/2
R origin origin
C. -
3
D. R R R
3
Example Locate XCOM of disc of mass M and radius R which contains a Cavity of
radius R
2

R Mass = M Mass = M
A.
6 R/2 R/2
R R
R origin origin
B. -
6
R
C. -
3
D. None of these
Solution:

Consider a mass m such that it fills the

cavity M
On filling the cavity the mass of body m
becomes M + m
To construct the original body a disk of
mass –m is added to this new structure
-m
It should be noted that negative mass does
not exist. It is just a technique to solve the
problem
Let us consider the discs as shown
The discs can be considered as point masses by assuming there entire
mass to be concentrated at there COM
y
m1x1 + m2x2
XCM =
m1 + m 2

M+m (M + m) x1 + (– m) x2
(0, 0) x
XCM =
(M + m) + (–m)
(M + m) x1 – m x2
XCM =
M
y x1 = 0
–m R
(0, 0) x x2 =
R
,0 2
2
Consider the thickness of discs to be t
Mass = volume × density
(M + m) x1 – m x2
XCM = A1 = p R2
M
x1 R 2
= 0 A2 = p
2
x2 R (M + m) x1 – m x2
= XCM =
2
M
R R/2
x1 = 0t M + m = A1 t ρ

R – m –=A2 t ρ
x2 =
2 M = (A1 – A2) tρ
M+m = (A1 t) × ρ
(A1 t ρ) x1 – (A2 t ρ) x
XCM =
m = (A2 t)× ρ (A1 – A2) t ρ 2
 (A1 t ρ) x1 – (A2 t ρ)x2
XCM =
(A1 – A2) t ρ x1 = 0
A1 = π R2
A1x1 – A2x2 2
R
XCM = R x2 =
A2 = π
A1 – A2 2 2
2
R R
π R2 (0) –π
XCM 2 2 A1 = Total Area
= 2 A2 = Area of cavity
R
π R –π
2 x1 = x-coordinate of COM of total body
2 x2 = x-coordinate of COM of cavity
2
R R
0 –π × R
XCM =
4 2 XCM = - 6
2
R
π R –π
2
4
 Center of Mass

Y DPP 1

COM

X
Mass is non-uniformly distributed on the circumference of a ring of
radius a and centre at the origin. Let b be the distance of the centre of
mass of the ring from centre of ring. Then
A. b = a
B. 0 ≤ b≤a
C. b < a
D. b > a
The centre of mass of a system of particles is at (x0, y0, z0) where x0≤ 0,
y0≤ 0. It is known that no particle lies in the region y < 0 and x < 0, then
the position of centre of mass can be
A. (0,0,4)
B. (0,-4,0)
C. (-4,0,0)
D. (-4,-4,-4)
Three identical spheres each of radius R are placed touching each other
on a horizontal table as shown in the figure. The coordinates of center of
mass are :

Y
A. (R, R)

B. (0, 0)

C. ( R , R )
2 2

D. ( R ,
R )
√3

X
Y ALTERNATIVE

X
Five uniform circular plates each of diameter b and mass m are laid out
in a pattern shown. Using the origin shown, find y coordinate of center of
mass of five plate system.
Y
A. b/5
B. b/3
C. 4b/5
D. 2b/5

X
If the density of material of a square plate and a circular plate is same,
the centre of mass of the composite system will be:
A. inside the square plate
B. inside the circular plate
C. at the point of contact
D. outside the system

l l
 ALTERNATIVE

l l
4 particles of mass m1 = 2m, m2 = 4m, m3 = m and m4 are placed at four
corners of a square. What should be the value of m4 so that the center of
mass of all the four particles is exactly at the center of the square ?
A. 3m m4 = ? m3= m
B. 5m
C. 8m
D. Not possible

m1= 2m m2= 4m
m4= ? m3= m

m1= 2m m2= 4m
Center of Mass

DPP 2

4R
A wire of uniform cross-section is bend in the shape shown in figure.
The coordinate of the centre of mass of each side are shown in (figure).
The coordinates of the centre of mass of the system are Y

2l 2l

X
2l
A ‘y’ coordinate of the centre of mass of the system of three rods of
length ‘2a’ and two rods of length ‘a’ as shown in the figure is :
(Assume all rods to be of uniform density)
y y
2a

a a

2a 2a
O x x
y y

x x
A homogeneous plate PQRST is as shown in figure. The centre of mass of plate
lies at midpoint A of segment QT. Then the ratio of b/a is
(PQ = PT = b; QR = RS = ST = a)
R a Q
A. b
A
B. a
P
a/2
C. b
S a T

D.
R a Q
b

a A
P
a/2
b
S a T
8 solid uniform cubes of edge ‘l’ are stacked together to form a single cube with
center ‘O’. One cube is removed from this system.
Distance of the centre of mass of remaining 7 cubes from ‘O’ is
In the figure, the L - shaped shaded piece is cut from a metal plate of
uniform thickness. The point that corresponds to the center of mass of
the L- shaped piece is :
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 4
1

2 3

4
From the circular disc of radius 4R two small discs of radius R are cut off.
The centre of mass of the new structure will be :
y
A. ^i R + ^j R
5 5
B. -i^ R + ^j R
5 5

C. - 3R ( ^i + ^j ) x
14 R

D -i^ R - ^j R
. 5 6
y y

x x
R R
Center of Mass

DPP 3
An inverted T - Shaped object is placed on a smooth horizontal floor and a force F is
applied on the system as shown in fig. The value of x so that the system performs
pure translational motion is

M,L

x
M,L
The mass of the 2 inner circles, and each of the 2 line segments is m. The
mass of the outer circle is 6m. The coordinates of outer circle (0, 0), left
circle (-a, a), right circle (a, a), vertical line (0, 0) & horizontal line (0, -a).
The Y-coordinate of the centre of mass of the drawing is -2009
A.
Y
B.
6m
C.
(-a, a) (a, a)
D. m m
m x
(0, 0)
m
(0, -a)
 Find the angle ∝
Experimental if the L shaped structure is at rest
physics -2018
A. tan-1(1)
B. tan-1(1/2)
C. tan-1(1/3)
D. tan-1(1/4)

∝
y
Experimental physics

x
A disc (radius r) of uniform thickness and uniform density ρ has a square hole with
sides of length . One corner of the hole is at the centre of the disc and centre
of the hole lies on y-axis as shown.
y
Then the y-coordinate of position of COM of disc with hole is.

x
r
y y

x x
r r
Challenger Type
Maximum length that 3 playing cards can protrude on a table edge?

L Challenger Type
L
A.
10
3L
B.
4
11L
C.
12
D. L
L
 Momentum
LECTURE 1
Momentum Conservation - 1
Introduction to Conservation of Momentum
 Conservation of Momentum

m1 m2

r2 COM
r1

m3
r3
x

z
 m1v1 + m2v2 + m3v3 . . . . Remember
vCM =
m1 + m 2 + m3 + . . . p1 + p2 + p3 +… = PSYS
m1v1 = p1
(m1 + m2 + m3 + . . ) vCM = m1v1 + m2v2 + m3v3 . . . .
m2v2 = p2

mvCM = m1v1 + m2v2 + m3v3 +. . . . m3v3 = p3

m vCM= p1 + p2 + p3 +. . . .

PSYS= m vCM
 Conservation of Momentum

m1
m2

r2 COM
r1

m3
r3

z
Now we have understand the method of locating COM, Let’s understand the
concept of momentum

m1a1 + m2a2 + m3a3 + . . .

aCM =
m 1 + m2 + m 3 ...

(m1 + m2 + m3 + . . .) aCM = m1a1 + m2a2 + m3a3 . . . .

m aCM = m1a1 + m2a2 + m3a3 +...

m aCM = F1 + F2 + F3 + . . . . . .

Fext = m aCM

Let m1 + m2 + m3 + . . . = m = Mass of system

 Conservation of Momentum - GOLD

m1
m2

r2 COM
r1

m3
r3

z
 Fext = m aCM

If Fext = 0 then = 0
aCM
d vCM
aCM = = 0
dt

vCM = constant

➔ If COM is initially at rest it will remain at rest

➔ If COM initially moves with some velocity
➔ it will continue to move with that velocity
 PSYS = mVCM

PSYS = Constant If Fext = 0 then

VCM is constant
Pi = P f

If Initial Momentum of If Initial Momentum is some

system is zero then Final Constant then Final momentum
Momentum of system will will also be the same constant.
also be Zero.

This is called as Principle of Conservation of Momentum

Numericals on Conservation of Momentum
Example 2 bodies of masses 10 kg & 20 kg are moving with velocities 4ms–1 & 1 ms–1
in same direction. If the bodies collide and stick with each other, then Find
their common velocity.
A. 2.5 ms–1 (left) 20 kg
10 kg 4ms–1
B. 2 ms–1 (right) 1ms–1
C. 3 ms–1 (left)
D. 2.5 ms–1(right)
Solution:
Before Collision After Collision

30 kg
10 kg 4ms–1 20 kg 1ms–1 v

As on system Fext = 0, therefore

Pi = P f
the momentum of system is
10 × 4 + 20 × 1 = 30 × v conserved

40 + 20 = 30v

60 = 30v

v = 2 ms–1
 Initially man and balloon are rest in a gravity free space.
Example
Find the velocity of balloon if man starts climbing the balloon with
velocity 10 ms–1 w.r.t balloon

A. 2.5 ms–1 (down)

B. 2 ms–1 (up) 15 kg
C. 3 ms–1 (down)
15 kg
D. 2.5 ms–1 (up) 15 kg

5 kg
5 kg
 15 kg
15 kg

5 kg

5 kg
Solution:
Pi = P f If man climbs up, the balloon
will move down
0 = 5V1 + 15( -V2 ) 15 kg V2
V1 + V2 = 10

V1 = 10 – V2
As on system Fext = 0, the
Putting in equation
momentum of system is conserved
0 = 5 (10 –V2)– 15 V2

0 = 50 – 5V2 – 15 V2

2 0 V2 = 50
5 Also the relative velocity of two V1
V2 =
moving in opposite direction is V1 +V2
5 kg
2

V2 = 2.5ms–1
Example A bomb of Mass M explodes into 2 pieces of masses M/3 & 2M/3.
If the speed of smaller mass is v0 , then find the speed of bigger mass.

v0
M

v0
Solution: As the external force on system is zero, therefore momentum
of system is conserved
Pi = Pf
2M M
M 2M v2 3 M v1=v0
0 = V1 (–V2) 3
+ 3
3

M 2M
0 = V1 + (–V2)
3 3
M 2M
0 =
3
V0 – 3
V2

2M
V2 = M V0
3 3

V0
V2 =
2
Example A bomb of Mass M placed at origin explodes into 3 pieces of mass M/3.
2 masses move along X Axis & Y Axis with velocity 3 ms–1 & 4 ms–1 respectively.
Find Velocity & Speed of 3rd mass.
A. 5î – 12ĵ , 13 ms–1

B. - 3î – 4ĵ , 5 ms–1 M
3
C. - 3î + 4ĵ , 5 ms–1 M M
M 3
D. -5î – 12ĵ , 13 ms–1 3
Solution:
V2 = 4 ms–1
Pi = Pf
M
3
0 = m1v1 + m2v2 + m3v3

M ^ M ^ M M M
0 = (3 l ) + (4 j) + v3 V2 = 3 ms–1
3 3
3 3 3
V3
M ^
0 = (3 ^l + 4 j + v3 ) As the external force on system
3 is zero, therefore momentum of
system is conserved
^ ^
3 l + 4 j + v3 = 0

^ ^
v3 = –3 l – 4 j
v3 = –3î – 4ĵ
y
v3 =
√ (–3)2 + (–4)2

θ = 530
v3 =
√ 9 + 16 3 x
θ
v3 = √ 25 4
V3
(–3, –4)
v3 = 5 ms–1
 A body of mass 30 kg is shot with velocity 50 ms–1 at an angle 530 with
Example
horizontal. At its top most point, the body break into 3 parts each of
mass 10kg. If one mass retraces its path, second comes to rest, then
find the velocity of third mass.
A. 60 m/s
B. 100 m/s
C. 120 m/s
D. 125 m/s

50 m/s

530
Solution:
As on the top point velocity
y of projectile is u cosθ
30 ms– 30 ms–
1 1
50 ms–1 V
10 kg 10 kg 10 kg
Rest
530
x
u cos θ = 50 cos 530
3
u cos θ = 50 ×
5
u cos θ = 30 ms–1
 Before Blast After Blast
y y
30 kg 30 ms–1 30 ms–1
50 ms–1 30 ms–1 50 ms– V
1
10 kg 10 kg 10 kg
Rest
530
530
x
x
P i = Pf

30 × 30 = 10 x (–30) + 10 × 0 + 10 × v

900 = –300 + 10 v ➔ As there is no external force in horizontal

direction, therefore the momentum can be
10 v = 1200 conserved in horizontal direction
➔ At the top point body is under the influence of
V = 120 ms–1 gravitational force which acts in downward
direction
Example A man of mass m is standing on a trolley of mass M which is Placed on
a smooth surface.If man walks on trolley with velocity v0 w.r.t. trolley
then find the velocity of trolley ?
A.

B. m m
m
C.
M
M M
M
D. None of these
Solution:

N2 N1

m X direction
f f
M
mg

Mg

N1
➔ When man pushes the trolley back the trolley will push the man forward.
➔ So the frictional Force on man will act in forward direction where as on trolley it will be
on backward direction.
➔ The force mg will act on man in downward direction and in return a normal reaction N1
will act in upward direction .
➔ As every action has equal and opposite reaction therefore N1 will also act on trolley in
downward direction.
➔ Apart from this Mg and N2 will also act on trolley.
➔ On the system of man and trolley friction is an internal force and hence its resultant on
system is zero
➔ On the system of man and trolley normal reaction N1 is an internal force and hence its
resultant on system is also zero
➔ As it is visible that external forces Mg, mg and N2 acts on the system of man and trolley
in y direction
➔ Hence the net external force on the system in X direction is zero and as a result the
momentum of the system is conserved in
 V1
➔ Let at any instant the velocity of man
and trolley is V1 and V2 respectively
m ➔ Conserving the momentum of the
m system in x direction
V2
M
M

pi = pf

0 = mv1 + M (–v2)

0 = mv1 – Mv2
 0 = mv1 – Mv2
When two body moves in a opposite direction
v1 + v2 = v0 then there relative velocity is v1 + v2

v1 = v0 – v2

0 = m(v0 – v2) – Mv2

0 = mv0 – (m + M)v2

(m + M) v2 = mv0

m
v2 = v0
m+M
Example A man of mass m is standing on a trolley of mass M which is moving on a
smooth surface with velocity u. If man walks on trolley with velocity v0 w.r.t.
to trolley then find the velocity of trolley. (in the -X direction)
mv0 – (m + M) u
A.
m+M
mv0 – (m + M) u m m
B.
m-M m
mv0 + (m + M) u u
C.
m+ M M
M M
M

D. None of these
 N2 N1

m X
direction
f f
M
mg

Mg

N1
 Before Walking After
Walking
m v1
m

M u v2 M

pi = pf
➔ Let at any instant the velocity of
(m + M) u = mv1 + M (–
man and trolley is V1 and V2
v2)
respectively
(m + M) u = mv1 – Mv2
➔ Conserving the momentum of the
system in x direction
(m + M) u = mv1 – Mv2
When two body moves in a
v 1 + v2 = v0 opposite direction then there
relative velocity is v1 + v2
v1 = v0 – v2
(m + M) u = m (v0 – v2) –
Mv2
(m + M) u = mv0 – (m + M)v2
(m + M)v2 = mv0 – (m + M) u

mv0 – (m + M) u
v2 =
m+M
 Momentum
LECTURE 2
Momentum Conservation - 2
smooth
Experimental physics
 A man of mass m is standing on a trolley of mass M & length L which is
Example
Experimental physics
placed on a smooth surface. If man walks on trolley & reaches other end
of trolley then find displacement of man & trolley w.r.t ground.

M,L
Experimental physics
m

M,L
Experimentalmphysics

M,L

M,L
Experimental physics
m

M,L

M,L
 Experimental physics
➔ When man pushes the trolley back the trolley will push the man forward.
➔ So the frictional Force on man will act in forward direction where as on trolley it
will be on backward
➔ The force mg will act on man in downward direction and in return a normal
reaction N1 will act in upward direction
➔ As every action has equal and opposite reaction therefore N1 will also act on
trolley in downward direction
➔ Apart from this Mg and N2 will also act on trolley
 Experimental physics
➔ As it is visible that external forces Mg, mg and N2 acts on the system of man
and trolley in y direction .
➔ On the system of man and trolley friction is an internal force and hence its
resultant on system is zero
➔ On the system of man and trolley normal reaction N1 is an internal force and
hence its resultant on system is also zero
➔ As we are interested only in horizontal displacement let’s vanish the vertical
forces
➔ Hence the net external force on the system in X direction is zero and as a
result the shift in COM in x direction is zero
Solution:
Experimental physics
L m1x1 + m2x2 mx1 + M(–x2)
XCM =
m1 + m 2 0 =
N2 N1 m+M
y x1 m1Δx1 + m2Δx2
ΔXCM = 0 = mx1 – Mx2
x2 m1 + m2
x1 + x2 = L
m

f f
M

mg
x
Mg

N1
Experimental physics
N2 N1

m X direction
f f
M
mg

Mg

N1
Experimental physics
x2 = L – x1 x2 = L – x1
M
0 = mx1 – M (L – x1) x2 = L – L
m+M 0 = mx1 – Mx2
0 = mx1 – ML + Mx1 x1 + x2 = L
mL + ML – ML
(m + M) x1 = ML x2 =
m+M

M m
x1 = L x2 = m+M L
m+M
 In this given situation , spring is compressed by x0. If the string is
Example
Experimental physics
cut , find the speed of both the blocks
Find the maximum speed of blocks if string is cut.

m m
Solution:
Experimental physics
Pi = Pf V1
m m V2
0 = mv1 – mv2
v1 –v2 = 0
V1 = V2

Ui + Ki = Uf + Kf

1 2 + 0 = 0 + 1 mv 2 + 1 mv 2
2 kx 0 1 2
2 2

kx02 = mv12 + mv22 As on system Fext = 0,therefore the momentum

of system is conserved. As on system.
Wext = 0, therefore the energy of system is
V1 =
√ k
2m
x0 conserved
Experimental physics
Example 2 blocks each of mass m are connected by an ideal spring of spring
Experimental physics
constant k. One of the block is given initial velocity v0 as shown in
figure. Find the maximum elongation in the spring.
k
v0
A. √ m v
k 0
m m

√ m v smooth
B. 2k 0

C. √ 3k
m v
0

D.
√k2m v
0
 k
v0
m
Experimental physics m
smooth

k
m m
smooth
 k ALTERNATIVE
v0
m Experimental physics m
smooth

smooth
Solution:
Experimental physics

VB’ < Vo VA’ > 0 VA’ < VB’

A B

m m V0

➔ Due to velocity (v0) of Block ‘B’, spring

will start to elongate
➔ So, when both blocks are at same
A V’ B speed, spring will be at maximum
m A
m elongation.
V’
F F B

A V B
m m V
F F
 Experimental
Initial physics Final
A B
A B V
m m V0 m m V
F F

Since, S (Fext)x = 0 So, momentum can be conserved in the direction of x-axis.

Pi = Pf
mBv0 + mA(0) = mAv + mBv
mv0 = mv + mv
mv0 = 2mv

v = v0 / 2
 Experimental
Initial physics Final
A B
A B V
m m V0 m m V
F F

As, Σ (Wext) = 0, so energy of the system can also be conserved

(T.E.)i = (T.E.)f v = v0/2

1 1 1 1 1 1
mv02 + m(0)2 + K(0)2 = mv2 + mv2 + Kx2
2 2 2 2 2 2

1
2
mv02 = mv2 +
1
2
Kx2 x =
√ 2km v 0
Example 2 blocks each of mass ‘m’ and ‘2m’ are connected by an ideal spring of
Experimental physics
spring constant ‘k’. Blocks are given velocities as shown.
Find the maximum elongation in the spring.

k
v0 2v0
m 2m

smooth
 k
v0 2v0
Experimental physics
m 2m

smooth

k
m 2m

smooth
 k ALTERNATIVE
v0 2v0
Experimental physics
m 2m

smooth

smooth
Solution:
Experimental physics
As discussed in previous question, Elongation in the spring will be
Maximum when both blocks will move with Same Velocity

K
V0 m 2m 2V0

smooth

V
m m V
F F
Maximum
Elongation
 Experimental
Initial physics Final
K V
V m 2m 2V0 m 2m V
F F
0 smooth
Maximum Elongation

Since, S (Fext)x = 0, So, momentum can be conserved in the direction of

x-axis.

Pi = Pf
2m(2v0)+m(–v0) = 2mv+mv
3mv0 = 3mv

v = v0
 Experimental
Initial physics Final
K V
V m 2m 2V0 m 2m V
F F
0 smooth
A B A Maximum Elongation B

As, S (wext) = 0, so energy of the system can also be conserved

(T.E.)i = (T.E.)f
v = v0

1 1 1 1 1 1
(2m)(2v0)2 + m(v0)2 + K(0)2= mv2 + (2m)v2 + Kx2
2 2 2 2 2 2
1 3 mv2 + 1 Kx2
(9mv02)
2 = 2 2

x =
√6mk v 0
 A block of mass ‘2m’ is having a smooth circular cut. A block of mass ‘m’
Example
Experimental physics
is released from rest from the top of circular cut as shown in figure.Find
the velocity of both the blocks. Just before they leave each other.

R
m

2m

smooth
 Experimental
Initial physics Final

R
m

2m 2m
m
smooth
Solution:
Experimental physics As, there is no external force in x-direction,
R
momentum of the system can be conserved in
m
m x-direction

N1
R N2
Pi = P f
V2 m(0) + 2m(0) = m (v1) + 2m (–v2)
N1 0 = mv1 – 2mv2
2m mg

smooth 2mg v1 = 2v2

Ui + Ki = Uf + Kf
1 1
mgR + 0 = 0 + mv12 + (2m)
2 2 (v )2
2
1 1
As, there is no external work,
gR = v12 + (2) (v2)2 ➔ energy of the system is also
2 2 conserved
Experimental physics
1 2 1
gR = v1 + (2) (v2)2
2 2
1
gR = 1 (2v2)2 + (2) (v2)2
2 2
6v22
gR = v1 = 2v2
2

v1 = 2 √ gR3

v2 = √ gR3
Momentum & Collisions
LECTURE 3
IMPULSE

Pi + J = Pf
 A bullet of mass m is fired with velocity u towards a blocks of mass M
Example
Experimental physics
suspended with a string of length L, up to what height the block will rise if
bullet is embedded in the block.

u
m M
Experimental physics
L L

m M
Solution:
Experimental physics
Before Collision After Collision

L L

M+m v
m
u M

Pi = Pf
mu + 0= (M + m)V As on system Fext = 0, therefore the
m momentum of system is conserved
V = u
m+M
 +
+
Experimental physics m
V = u
m+M
Vf = 0

h
M+m
V

Ui + Ki = Uf + Kf As on system Wext = 0,
therefore the energy of system
1 (m + M)V2 = (m + M) gh + 0 is conserved
0 +
2
V2
h = 2g
m 1 m2 u2
h = u2 × ⇒ h =
m+M 2g (m + M)2 2g
Example The system is released , Find the velocity of the bead when the
Experimental
string physics
becomes vertical !
A. 10 m/s
2m
B. 20 m/s
C. 30 m/s
m
D. 15 m/s L = 30 m
 Initial Final
Experimental physics
2m 2m

m
L = 30 m

m
 Introduction of Impulse
Experimental physics

time
FORCE
Impulse = (FORCE)( time)

TIME
force
Impulse = (force) ( TIME )
Experimental physics
Experimental physics
Product of force acting on any object with time interval of
action is called as Impulse.

Final Also
dP
Mathematically, ∫
J =Initial Fdt F =
dt
IMPULSE
Experimental physics
Product of force acting on any object with time interval of action is called
as Impulse.
Mathematically, Final

∫
J =Initial Fdt Pf
J = ∫ dP
As Pi

F = dP Pf
dt J = [P]
Pi
final
dP J = Pf – Pi
J = ∫
Initial dt
dt
J = ΔP
Experimental physics
➔ Hence Impulse is also defined as change in momentum
➔ Impulse is a vector quantity
➔ S.I unit of Impulse is Ns or kg ms–1
➔ Impulse is area under Force Time graph

F (N)
Impulse = Coloured Area

t (s)
t1 t2
Experimental physics
Experimental physics
Experimental physics
Experimental physics
u

J
u

v
Experimental physics
Experimental physics
u

J
u

v
 Numericals on Impulse
Experimental physics
Example A blocks of mass ‘m’ is lying at rest on a horizontal plane. An impulse ‘J0’
Experimental physics
has been applied. Find velocity after impulse application.

J0
Solution:
Experimental physics
Impulse = Change in momentum
I0 m v
J = Pf - Pi

(Final (Initial
Momentum) Momentum)

Io = mv – 0

I0
v =
m
 Example Find the Impulse provided by the kick, if the ball enters the goal post at 8 m/s.
Experimental physics
A. (8î - 6ĵ) Ns
B. (6î - 8ĵ) Ns
C. (8î + 6ĵ) Ns
D. (6î + 8ĵ) Ns
6 m/s

1 kg
ALTERNATIVE
Experimental physics

6 m/s

1 kg
Example A constant force 20N acts on a body for 2 sec. Find the Impulse acting
Experimental physics
on body.

A. 10 Ns
B. 20 Ns
C. 30 Ns
D. 40 Ns
Solution:
Experimental
t2 physics
I = ∫Fdt
t1
2
I ∫
= 0 20 dt

I = 20 ∫ dt
0 2
I = 20 × [t]
0

I = 20 × [2 – 0]

I = 40 Ns
Example A variable force F = 2t + 3t2 acts on a body for first 2 sec.
Experimental physics
Find Impulse acting on body.

A. 6 Ns
B. 9 Ns
C. 12 Ns
D. 15 Ns
Solution:
Experimental physics
t2
I = ∫ Fdt
t1
2
I = ∫(2t + 3t ) dt
0
2

2
t2 t3
I = 2 + 3
2 3
0
2
I = t2 + t 3
0

I = (22 + 23) – (02 + 03) I = 12 Ns

I = 4+8–0
Example The force-time graph for a body of mass 2kg is shown.If initially body
Experimental physics
moves with velocity 2ms–1. Find its velocity at end of 2sec.
A. 3 ms–1
B. 5 ms–1 F (N)
C. 7 ms–1
D. 9 ms–1
10 N

0s 2s t (s)
 ALTERNATIVE
Experimental physics
F (N)

10 N

0s 2s t (s)
Solution:
Experimental Impulse
physicsis area under force time graph m = 2 kg
F (N)
Vi = 2 ms–1
I = ΔP

10 N
10 = Pf – Pi

10 = mVf – mVi
0s 2s t (s)
10 = m (Vf – Vi)

10 = 2 (Vf –2)

I = Coloured Area = 1 × 2 × 10
5 = Vf –2
2

I = 10 Ns Vf = 7 ms–1
Example A body of mass 10 kg is moving with velocity 10 ms–1 gets a jerk and its
Experimental physics
velocity increases to 15 ms–1 in same direction.
Find the Impulse given by the jerk.

A. 15 Ns
B. 25 Ns 10 m/s
10 kg
C. 50 Ns
D. 60 Ns
Solution:
Experimental physics
Before Jerk After Jerk

I = ΔP
10 ms–1 15 ms–1
10 kg 10 kg I = Pf – Pi

I = mVf – mVi

I = m (Vf – Vi)

m = 10 kg I = 10 (15 – 10)

Vi = 10 ms–1 I = 10 × 5
Vf = 15 ms–1
I = 50 Ns
Example A body of mass 10kg is moving with velocity 10ms–1 gets a jerk and
Experimental physics
reverses its direction such that its velocity changes to 15 ms–1.
Find the Impulse given by jerk .

A. –150 Ns 10 m/s
B. –200 Ns 10 kg
C. –250 Ns
D. –350 Ns
Solution:
Experimental physics
Before Jerk After Jerk
I = ΔP
10 ms–1 15 ms–1 I = Pf –
10 kg 10 kg Pi
I = mVf – mVi

I = m (Vf – Vi)
m = 10 kg
I = 10 (–15 – 10)
Vi = 10 ms–1
I = 10 × (–25)
Vf = – 15 ms–1

I = –250 Ns
Example 2 blocks of mass ‘2m’ and ‘3m’ are connected by string as shown in figure.
Experimental physics
A particle of mass ‘m’ travelling with velocity ‘v0’ collides with block of
mass ‘2m’ in a perfectly Inelastic Collision.
Find velocities of all the objects after the collision.
A. vo/2
B. vo/3
C. vo/5 v0
D. vo/6 m
3m 2m

Smooth
 2 blocks of mass ‘2m’ and ‘3m’ are connected by string as shown in figure.
Example
Experimental physics
A particle of mass ‘m’ travelling with velocity ‘v0’ collides with block of
mass ‘2m’ in a perfectly Inelastic Collision.
Find Impulse generated in the String ?
A. mvo/2
B. mvo/3
C. mvo/5 v0
D. mvo/6 m
3m 2m

Smooth
Solution:
Experimental physics
Before For block & particle system
–IT = (2m + m) v – m (+v0)
m v0
3m 2m –IT = 3mv – mv0

Smooth v0 mv0
v= m/s IT =
After 6 2

v m v0 v
3m It It 2m
Smooth

For block of mass ‘3m’

IT = 3mv – 0
IT = 3mv
Example A bucket and block of mass ‘m’ each are arranged in the pulley system. A
Experimental physics
block of mass ‘ֹm/2’ hits the bucket with velocity v0 and sticks with it.
Find the velocities of all the objects after the collision.

A. v0/5, v0/7
B. v0/2, v0/2
C. v0/5, v0/5
D. v0/3, v0/3
m/2

v0

m
 Experimental physics
m/2

v0

v
m m

m
m
m/2
v
Experimental
v0
physics

m/2

m
v

m
Solution:
Experimental physics

Applying Impulse Equations

IT= m(v2) - 0
m/2 IT= (m+m/2)(- v1) - m/2(- v0)
Constrained Relation
IT IT
v0 v1=v2
v2.= ?
m m
v1=v2= v0/5 IT= mv0/5
m
m+m/2

v1 = ?
Momentum & Collisions
LECTURE 4
COLLISIONS -1

v1 v2
m1 m2
 COLLISIONS v
v

Head on Collision Oblique Collision

Elastic Collision Inelastic Collision

Perfectly Inelastic Collision Partially Inelastic Collision

 Head on Collisions

v1 v2
m1 m2
 v v
m m

v v
m m
Elastic Collisions
Elastic Collisions

u1 > u2

u1 u2
 Elastic Collisions v1 , v2 = ?

u1 > u2 v2 > v1

u1 u2 v1 v2

Vapp = u1 – u2
Vsep = v2 – v1
 Elastic Collisions

u1 > u2 v2 > v1

u1 u2 v1 v2

Relative velocity of = u1 – u2
approach before collision ➔ Before collision bodies approach each
other
➔ After collision bodies separate from each
Relative velocity of other
separation after collision = v2 – v1
 Before Collision After Collision

u1 > u2 v2 > v1

u1 u2 v1 v2

Pi = Pf
m1 u1 + m2 u2 = m1 v1 + m2 v2 As on system Fext = 0.
therefore the momentum of system is
m1( u1 – v1) = m2( v2 – u2) conserved
 In Elastic Collision the Energy of system is conserved

E i = Ef

1 mu2 1 m2u22 = 1 m1v12 + 21 m2v22

2 1 1 + 2 2

m1(u12 – v12) = m2(v22 – u22)

m1(u1 – v1) (u1 + v1) = m2(v2 – u2) (v2 + u2)

u1 + v1 = v2 + u2

u1 – u2 = v2 – v1

Relative velocity of Relative velocity of

approach before = separation after
collision collision
 Find v1 and v2 = ?

v2 = v1 + u1 – u2 Elastic Collision
m1u1 + m2u2 = m1v1 + m2 (v1 + u1 – u2) u2
u1
m1u1 + m2u2 = m1v1 + m2v1 + m2u1 – m2u2 m1 m2

(m1 – m2) u1 +2m2u2 = (m1 + m2) v1

m1u1 + m2u2= m1v1 + m2v2
m1 – m2 2m2
v1 = u1 + u2
m1 + m2 m1 + m2 u1 – u2 = v2 – v1
v2 = v1 + u1 – u2

m1 – m2 2m2
v2 = u1 + u2 + u1– u2
m1 + m2 m1 + m2

m1u1 – m2u1 + 2m2u2 + m1u1 – m1u2 + m2u1 – m2u2

v2 =
m1+m2

2m1u1 – (m1– m2) u2

v2 =
m1 + m2

2m1 m1 – m2 m1 – m2 2m2
v1 = u1 + u2
v2 = u1 – u2
m1 + m2 m1 + m2
m1 + m2 m1 + m2
Before Collision After Collision

u1 u2 v1 v2
m1 m2 m1 m2

u1 > u2 v2 > v1

m1 – m2 2m2
v1 = u1 + u2
m1 + m 2 m1 + m 2

2m1 m1 – m2
v2 = u1 – u2
m1 + m2 m1 + m2
Coefficient of Restitution (e)
Coefficient of Restitution (e)
Relative Velocity After Collision
e =
Relative Velocity Before Collision Before Collision

u1 u2
V separation
e= m1 m2
V approach

After Collision
v1 v2
m
m1
2

V2 - V1
e =
u 1 - u 2
 Coefficient of Restitution (e)

V separation
e=
V approach

0<e<1

Perfectly INELASTIC Collision ELASTIC Collision

Consider the Equal Masses colliding Elastically
 Consider the equal masses colliding Elastically

e=1 u2
u1
m m

m m
Consider the masses of colliding bodies to be equal
m1 = m2 = m

m–m 2m m1 – m 2 2m2
v1 = u1 + u2 v1 = u1 + u2
m+m m+m m1 + m 2 m1 + m 2
2m
v1 = 0 + u2
2m
2m1 m1 – m2
v1 = u2 v2 = u1 – u2
m1 + m2 m1 + m2
2m m–m
v2 = u1 – u2
m+m m+m
2m
v2 = u1 + 0
2m

V2 = u1
 Before Collision After Collision

v1 = u2
u1 u2 u2 u1
m1 m2 m1 m2 v2 = u1

If masses of colliding bodies are equal, then they exchange their velocities after collision
 Before Collision After Collision

u1 u2 v1 v2

m1 m2 m1 m2

u1 > u2 v2 > v1

m1 – m2 2m2
v1 = u1 + u2 2m1 m1 – m2
m1 + m 2 m1 + m 2 v2 = u1 – u2
m1 + m 2 m1 + m 2
Collision with a Wall

u
m

Coefficient of Restitution = e
If target is at Rest (u2 = 0)

m1 – m2 2m1
v1 = u1 v2 = u1
m1 + m2
m1 + m2

i) If Target is Very Large as compare to

incident object (m1 < < m2).
E.g. Ball thrown towards wall.

m1 u
m2
Before Collision After Collision

m1 < < m2 m1 u u m1
m2 m2

0 – m2 2 (0)
v1 = u1 v2 = u1 m1 – m2
0 + m2 0 + m2 v1 = u1
m1 + m2
v1 = – u1 v2 = 0
2m1
v2 = u1
m1 + m2
 If target is at Rest (u2 = 0)
m 1 – m2 2m2
v1 = u1 + u2
m1 + m2 m1 + m 2
m1 – m2 2m1
v1 = u1 v2 = u1
m1 + m2 m1 + m2
2m1 m1 – m 2
v2 = u1 – u2
m1 + m 2 m1 + m 2

i) If Target is Very small as compare to incident object (m1 > > m2)
E.g. Wall moving towards stationary object.

m1 u m2
 Before Collision After Collision

m1 – m2
v1 = u1
u 2u
m1 + m2
m1 >> m2 m1 u m2 m1 m2

2m1
v2 = u1
m1 + m2
m1 - 0 2m1
v1 = u1 v2 = u1
m1 + 0 m1 + 0

v1 = u 1 v2 = 2u1
Example If the collision find their FINAL velocity of the mass

A. u (left)
B. 2u (left)
C. 3u (left)
D. 4u (left) m
u
u

e =1
Example If the collision find their FINAL velocity of the mass
A. u/2 (right)
B. u/2 (left)
C. u (right)
D. u (left) m
2u u

e = 1/2
Elastic Collisions
Example If the collision is elastic then find their FINAL velocities

5 ms–1
10 ms–1 10 kg
5 kg
Solution:
Before Collision After Collision

5 ms–1 V1 V2
10 ms–1
5 kg 10 kg 5 kg 10 kg

Pi = Pf
v2 – v1 = u 1 – u 2
5 × 10 + 10 × 5 = 5v1 + 10v2
v2 – v1 = (10) – (5)
100 = 5v1 + 10v2

v1 + 2v2 = 20 v2 - v1 = 5
 v2 = v1 + 5 v2 = v1 + 5
v1 + 2 (v1 + 5) = 20 10
v2 = +5
3
3 v1 + 10 = 20
10 + 15
3 v1 = 10 v2 =
3
10 25 ms–1
v1 = ms–1 v2 =
3 3
Example If the collision is elastic then find their FINAL velocities

A. 10 ms–1(left),5 ms–1(right)
B. 5 ms–1 (left), 5 ms–1(right) 5 ms–1
C. 7 ms–1 (right), 8 ms–1(right) 10 ms–1
D. 8 ms–1(left), 7 ms–1(right) 10 kg
5 kg
Solution:
Before Collision After Collision

5 ms–1 V2
V1
10 ms–1 10 kg 10 kg
5 kg 5 kg

Pi = Pf
v2 – v1 = u 1 – u 2
5 × 10 + 10 × (–5) = 5v1 + 10v2 v2 – v1 = (10) – (–5)
0 = 5v1 + 10v2

v1 + 2v2 = 0 v2 - v1 = 15
 v1 + 2v2 = 0 v2 – v1 = 15

V1 = –2v2
V1 = –2v2
v2 – (–2v2) = 15
V1 = –2(5)
3v2 = 15

V2 = 5 ms–1 V1 = -10 ms–1

Elastic Collisions
Perfectly Inelastic Collision
Perfectly Inelastic Collision
➔ In this collision the colliding bodies move together as a single body
after collision
➔ In this collision, there is maximum loss of Kinetic Energy.

BEFORE

AFTER
 Before Collision After Collision

u1 u2 m1 + m2 V

m1 m2

Pi = Pf
m1u1 + m2u2 = (m1 + m2)V

m1u1 + m2u2
V =
m1+m2
ΔK = Ki – Kf m1u1 + m2u2
V =
m1+m2
1 1 1
ΔK = m1u12 + m1 u22 – (m1 + m1)V2
2 2 2

1 1 1 (m1u1 + m2u2)2
ΔK = m1u12 + m1 u22 – (m1 + m2)
2 2 2 (m1+ m2)2

m1u12 (m1 +m2) + m2u22 (m1 + m2) – (m12u12 + m22u22 + 2m1m2u1u2)

ΔK =
2(m1+ m2)
 m1u12 (m1 +m2) + m2u22 (m1 + m2) – (m12u12 + m22u22 + 2m1m2u1u2)
ΔK =
2(m1+ m2)

m12u12 + m1 m2u12 + m2m1 u12 + m22u22 – m12 u12 – m22u22 – 2m1m2u1u2

ΔK =
2(m1+ m2)

m1m2 (u12 + u22 – 2u1u2)

ΔK =
2(m1+m2)

m1m2
ΔK = (u1 – u2)2
2(m1+m2)
Example If the bodies collide and stick with each other, then find their common velocity.

A. 5 ms–1
B. 10 ms–1
C. 15 ms–1 5 kg 10 kg
D. 20 ms–1
20 ms–1 5 ms–1
Solution:

Before Collision After Collision

20 ms–1 5 ms–1
15 kg V
5 kg 10 kg

Pi = Pf As on system Fext = 0,
therefore the momentum
10 × 5 + 5 × 20 = 15 × v of system is conserved
50 + 100 = 15v

150 = 15v

v = 10 ms–1
Momentum & Collisions
LECTURE 5
COLLISIONS -2
Momentum & Collisions
LECTURE 5
COLLISIONS -2
 2 bodies of masses 10 kg and 5 kg are moving with velocities 5ms–1
Example
and 20 ms–1 as shown. If the bodies collide and stick with each other,
then find their common velocity.
A. 5/3 (left)
B. 10/3 (left) 5 ms–1 20 ms–1
C. 5/3 (right) 10 kg 5 kg
D. 10/3 (right)
Solution:
Before Collision After Collision

5 ms–1 20 ms–1
15 kg V

10 kg 5 kg

Pi = Pf As on system Fext = 0,
therefore the momentum
10 × 5 + 5 × (–20) = 15 × v of system is conserved

50 – 100 = 15v

–50 = 15v
10
–50 –10
v = v =
15 3 3
Partially Inelastic Collision
➔ In this collision the shape of colliding bodies get deformed after collision.
➔ In this collision loss of kinetic energy takes place.
Before Collision After Collision

u1 u2 v1 v2
m2 m2
m1 m1

Pi = Pf
m1 u1 + m2u2 = m1v1 + m2v2 As on system Fext = 0,
therefore momentum
v2 – v1 = e (u1 – u2) of system is conserved

e = Coefficient of restitution
e = 1 for Elastic Collision
e = 0 for Perfectly Inelastic Collision
0 < e < 1 for Partially Inelastic Collision
Example 2 bodies are moving as shown. Find their velocities after collision if e = 1
2
A. 4ms , 5ms
–1 –1

B. 5ms–1 , 4ms–1
C. 2ms–1 , -2ms–1 5 ms–1 3 ms–1
D. 4ms–1 , -2ms–1 5 kg
10 kg
Solution:
Before Collision After Collision

5 ms–1 3 ms–1 v1
v2
5 kg
5 kg
10 kg 10 kg

e = 1
2
Pi = Pf As on system Fext = 0,
therefore momentum
10 × 5 + 5 × 3 = 10v1 + 5v2 of system is conserved

v2 – v1 = e (u1 – u2)
65 = 10v1 + 5v2
1
2v1 + v2= 13 v2 – v1 = (5) –(–3) = 2
2 2

v2 – v1 = 1
 2v1 + v2 = 13 v2 – v1 = 1
v2 = v1 + 1

2v1 + (v1 + 1)= 13

3v1 + 1 = 13
v2 = v1 + 1
4
3v1 = 12 v2 = 4 + 1

v1 = 4 ms–1 v2 = 5 ms–1
 1
Example 2 bodies are moving as shown. Find their velocities after collision if e =
2
A. 1ms–1 , 5ms–1
B. 5ms–1 , 1ms–1
C. 2ms–1 , -2ms–1 5 ms–1 3 ms–1
D. -2ms–1 , 2ms–1
10 kg 5 kg
Solution:

Before Collision After Collision e = 1

2
5 ms–1 3 ms–1 v1 v2

10 kg 5 kg 10 kg 5 kg

As on system Fext = 0,
Pi = Pf therefore momentum
of system is conserved
10 × 5 + 5 × (–3) = 10v1 + 5v2 v2 – v1 = e (u1 – u2)

50 – 15 = 10v1 + 5v2 1
v2 – v1 = (5) –(–3) = 8
2 2
35 = 10v1 + 5v2

2v1 + v2 = 7 v2 – v1 = 4
 2v1 + v2 = 7 v2 – v1 = 4

v2 = v1 + 4
2v1 + (v1 + 4) = 7

3v1 + 4 = 7
v2 = v1 + 4
3v1 = 3
v2 = 1+4

v1 = 1 ms–1 v2 = 5 ms–1
 A bucket and block of mass ‘m’ each are arranged in the pulley system. A
Example ball of mass ‘ֹm/2’ hits the bucket with velocity v0 and rebounds elastically.
Find the velocities of bucket, mass & ball after the collision.

A. v0/5, v0/5, 2v0/5

B. 2v0/5, 2v0/5, 2v0/5
C. 3v0/5, 3v0/5, 2v0/5
D. None of these
m/2

v0

m
 m/2

v0
v1

m m
v

m m/2 m

v
v0

m/2

m
v

m
Solution:

Applying Impulse Equations

IT= m(v2) - 0 - m/2(- v0)

m/2
IT= [(m)(- v1) + m/2(v3)] v3= ?

m/2
Constrained Relation IT IT
v0
v1 = v 2 v2.= ?
m Condition of Elastic Collision m
v1 + v 3 = v 0 m
m
Condition of Elastic Collision

v1=v2= 2v0/5 v3=3v0/5 v1=

?
Example A body is released from height h above the surface as shown. Find
i) Velocity with which ball strikes the surface
ii) Velocity with which ball will rebound
iii) Height attained after first collision from the surface.

Drop

Coefficient of Restitution = e
Solution:
i) Velocity with which ball strikes the surface
u=0 Drop

Ui + Ki = Uf + Kf

1
h
mgh + 0 = 0 + m u0 2
2
Surface
u0 = √ 2gh u0

Remember
As on system Wext = 0,
therefore energy of
system is conserved
ii) Velocity with which ball will rebound

Before Collision After Collision

v Coefficient of Restitution = e

v1= v
u0 = √ 2gh
u1= –u0 u0

u2= 0 v2= 0

v2 – v1 = e ( u1 – u2 )

0– v = e (– u0 – 0 )
–v = – e u0

v = e u0 = e 2gh
√
iii) Height attained after first collision from the surface

After Collision u0 = √ 2gh

Coefficient of Restitution = e

vf = 0
As on system Wext = 0,
h
v therefore energy of
h′ system is conserved

e2 uo 2
Ui + Ki = Uf + Kf h′ =
2g
0+ 1 m v2 = mg h′ + 0 e2 2g h
2 h′ =
v2 2g
h′ = v = e u0 =
2g
h′ = e2 h
√ 2gh
Example A body of mass m is released when string is horizontal as shown.If mass
m strikes the mass 2m when string is vertical, then find the velocity of
masses after collision.
1
e=
√2gL , 4 3
A. √2gL
9 9
L
4 √gL ,√gL m
B.
9 9
C. 4 √gL , √2gL
9 9 L
D. None of these
2m
Initial 1 Final
L
e= L
3

L L

m 2m m 2m
Solution:
L
As on system Wext = 0,
therefore the energy of
u=0
system is conserved

L
2m
v2
m u0

Ui + Ki = Uf + Kf

1 2
mgL + 0 = 0 + 2 mu
0
u02 = 2gL

u0 = √ 2gh
 Before Collision After Collision
As on system Fext = 0,
therefore the momentum of
system is conserved

2m
u0 v1 2m v2
u0 = √ 2gh
m m

Pi = Pf v2 – v1 = e (u1 – u2)

mu0 + 2m(0) = mv1 + 2mv2 v2 – v1 = 1 (u0)– (0)

3

v1 + 2v2 = u0 v2 – v1 = u0
3
 u0 u0
v1 = v2 – v1 = v2 –
3 3 u0 = √2gL
u0 u0
v2 – + 2v2 = u0 v1 = 4 u0 –
3 9 3 v1 + 2v2 = u0

4 u 4u0 – 3u0 u0
3v2 = 0 v1 =
3 9 v2 – v1 =
3
u0
v2 = 4 u0 v1 =
9 9

4 √2gL √2gL
v2 = v1 =
9 9
Oblique Collision
Oblique Collision
It is the collision in 2 dimension

Line of Impact (LOI): It is the line which is perpendicular to surface in

contact during collision.

LOI

Surface
Surface
Numerical on Oblique Collision
 A ball is thrown with velocity u at an angle θ with vertical towards a smooth
Example surface as shown. Find the velocity of ball after collision if coefficient of
restitution is e.

A. u√ e2sin2θ + cos2θ
B. u√ e2cos2θ + sin2θ θ u
C. u√ e2cosθ + sinθ
D. None of these
Solution:
Resolve the velocity of body along and
perpendicular to LOI

LOI
θ u

u sinθ

θ Surface
u cosθ
 Before Collision After Collision

LOI
Treat the complete scenario
LOI as head on collision along
θ u the LOI
v

u sinθ u sinθ
θ Surface Surface
u cosθ

u1 = –u cosθ v1 = v Components perpendicular to

u2 = 0 v2 = 0 LOI remains unchanged after
the collision
v2 – v1 = e (u1 – u2)
0– v = e (–u cosθ – 0)
 0 – v = e (–u cosθ – 0) u sin θ
tanφ =
e u cos θ
–v1 = –e u cosθ
tan θ
tanφ =
v = e u cosθ e
LOI

vR = √ (e u cosθ)2 + (u sinθ)2
e u cosθ vR
φ
vR = √ e2u2 cos2θ + u2 sin2θ

u sinθ vR = u√ e2cos2θ + sin2θ

Example 2 bodies of mass ‘1kg’ and ‘2kg’ are moving towards each other in an
oblique direction as shown in figure.
Find the final velocities of both the bodies. If collision is elastic [e = 1]

15m/s
37°
1 kg

37°
5m/s

2 kg
 9m/s
1 kg 1 kg

v1

v2

2 kg 2 kg
Solution:
Before Collision Along the Line of After Collision Along the Line of
Impact Impact
9 m/s
pi=pf v2−v1 = e(u1−u2)

15 m/s 1(12)+2( ̶ 4)= 1(v1)+2(v2) 1 kg

v2−v1 = 1 ( 12−(−4))
1 kg 37°
2v2+v1= 4 v2−v1=16

12 m/s 4 m/s v1 = − 28/3 ms-1

37°
5m/s
v2 = 20/3 ms-1
2 kg
3 m/s 2 kg
LOI
LOI V1kg = =

V2kg =
=
Momentum & Collisions
LECTURE 6
COLLISIONS - 3
 A ball of mass 1 kg strikes a heavy platform, elastically, moving upwards with a
Example velocity of 5 m/s. The speed of the ball just before the collision is 10 m/s downwards.
Experimental physics
Then the Impulse imparted by the platform on the ball is :

A. 15 N-s
B. 10 N-s
C. 20 N-s 1 kg
D. 30 N-s

5 m/s 10 m/s
Example A mass is sliding to the right with momentum p1 on a horizontal , as shown
Experimental
in the physics
figure. A force is applied to the mass for a short time and its
momentum afterward is p1. Which lettered arrow shows the direction of
the impulse that was delivered to the mass?

A. B. C. D. p1

p1
Example Ball of mass m collides with the wall of angle 450 of incidence e = ½.
Experimental physics
Find the angle of reflection ?
A. tan -1 (1.5) smooth
B. tan -1 (2)
C. tan -1 (1/2) 450
D. 450 i

√2 v
m
Example Ball of mass m collides with the wall of angle 450 of incidence e = 1/2.
Experimental physics
Find the angle of reflection ?
A. tan -1 (1.5)
B. tan -1 (2) µ = 1/2
C. tan -1 (1/2)
D. 45o 450
i

√2 v
m
 A moving 2 kg ball with a speed of 2m/s hits obliquely a stationary identical ball
Example
Experimental physics
partially inelastically as shown. If the first ball move away with angle α=300 to the
original path, find the total kinetic energy lost after collision ?

A. 4/3 J
B. 5/4 J
C. 6/5 J
D. 7/6 J
2m/s
α=300
β
Experimental physics
2m/s

α=300
β
Experimental physics
2m/s

α=300
β
Solution:
Experimental physics
Before After

2m/s

α=300
β

Ei = (2) (2)2 = 4J

Ef = (2) + (2) P conserve ( along the LOI )

m(√3) = mv1 + mv2

Eloss = Ei - Ef = v1 + v2 = √3

v2 + v 2 = =
Example A ball moving horizontally with velocity 10 m/s strikes a smooth wedge as
Experimental physics
shown in figure. The wedge is placed at rest on a frictionless horizontal
ground. If the coefficient of restitution is e=1,
calculate the velocity of the wedge after the impact.

10 m/s
m

2m
370
Experimental
10 m/s
physics
m m

2m 2m
370
Solution:
Experimental physics

2m
370
 A smooth ball A of mass m is suspended as shown. Another identical ball B, is
Example
Experimental physics
dropped from a height h, so that string just touches the surface of the sphere.
Collision between balls is completely elastic.
A. Velocity of ball A , just after collision is
B. Impulsive Tension provided by string is

B
h

A
Experimental physics
B

A A A
Experimental physics

A
Solution:
Experimental physics
Solution:
Experimental physics
Rocket Propulsion
Variable Mass Problems

dm
Fthrust= dt urel
 Fthrust = (Urel).dm
dt

Velocity of gases Per second how much

w.r.t rocket mass of gases is
coming out
 Newton’s II Law of Motion
P = mv

m
 t=t t = t +dt

dm M -dm dm M -dm v +dv

v urel
→ → →
Pi = Mv Pi = (M - dm) (v + dv) + dm Vgases
Conserve
→ → →
Mv = (m - dm) (v + dv) + dm (v+dv - Urel) Vgas /rocket = Vgas - Vrocket

→
Mv = Mv + Mdv - vdm - dmdv + v dm + dmdv - dm Urel -Urel = Vgas - ( v + dv )

Mdv = (dm)Urel

M. = .Urel Fthrust = .Urel

 M dV = uo dm r = dm Kg s–1
dt
dV dm
M = uo M = Mo – rt
dt dt

dm
Ma = uo
dt MdV = uo dm

dm
FT = uo
dt

Thrust Force Relative velocity of Rate of burning

= gases wrt rocket ×
on rocket of fuel
Numericals on Variable Mass System
Example A cart of mass ‘M0’ is moving with velocity ‘v0’. At t = 0, water starts
pouring on the cart from a container above the cart at the rate of ‘λ
kg/sec’. Find the velocity of the cart as function of time.

At t = 0

λ kg s–1
v0
M0

Smooth
Solution:

At t = 0
At time t
M = M0 + λt

dm
= λ
dt
dm λt
λ kg s–
1
M0 v
M0 v0

Smooth Smooth

FT = Ma dv
(– v) λ = (M0 + λt)
dm dv dt
urel = M
dt dt
 dv
(– v) λ = (M0 + λt)
dt
M0v0
v=
M0+λt

v t

∫ ∫ M +λt
dv dt
= −λ
v
0
v0 0
t
v –λ ln M0+λt
ln v 0
v0
=
λ

v M0
ln
v0 = ln
M0+λt
Example A cart containing water of mass m0 is moving with speed vo. Water
starts to leak from the cart at λ Kg/sec.
Find the velocity of cart as function of time.

A. M0 + λt
B. λt At t = 0
C. Constant
D. None of these
M0 v0

λ kg s–1

Smooth
Solution:

dm M = M0 - λt
= -λ
At t = 0 dt At time
t
M0 v0 M0 v
λ kg s–1 dm V
Smooth λ kg s–1
Smooth

dv
FT = Ma λ= (M0 +
dt
λt)
dm dv dv = 0
urel = M
dt dt
V = Constant
 Example A cart of mass M0 at rest is being pulled by a constant force F0. Water
starts pouring on the cart at the rate of λ Kg/sec. at t = 0.
Find velocity as a function of time.

At t = 0

λ kg s–1
F0
M0
Rest

Smooth
Solution:

At t = 0
At time t
M = M0 + λt
dm
= λ
dt
dm λt
λ kg s–
1
M0 F0 M0 F0, v

Rest
Smooth Smooth

Fext + FT= Ma dv
F0+ (– v) λ = (M0 +
dm dv dt
Fext + urel = M λt)
dt dt
 dv F0
F0+(– v) λ = (M0 + λt) M0 + λt
dt =
M0 F0 – λv

F0λt
v t v=
∫ dv
F0 –
= ∫M
dt λ[M0+λt]

0 0 +λt
λv 0
v t
ln F0 – λv ln M0 +λt
0 = 0
[-l] l

F0 M0 + λt
ln ln
F0 – λv =
M0
 A chain of mass M and length L is hold vertically on smooth horizontal
Example
table as shown. If chain is released from rest, then find the normal
reaction as a function of x. x is the distance which the chain has fallen &
assume no rebounding of chain after striking the surface.
2M g x
A.
L M,L
B. M gx
L

C. 3M g x
L
D. None of these

Smooth
M,L

Smooth

N = Fm + w
dm
= Urel . + (μ . x).g
dt

= 2μ x g + μ x g

= 3μ x g 3 M x g
L
Solution:
x

d λ dx
M,L M,L (λx)=
dt dt
M V =√2g x dm
λ = = λv
L dt
N
m=λx
N = 3λgx

Smooth Smooth 3M
λxg N = gx
L

Fext + FT = Ma N–λxg + –V λV = m(0)

dm dv N – λ g x – λ v2 = 0
Fext + urel = M
dt dt N–λgx–2λgx = 0
Momentum & Collisions

DPP 1
 Two trains A and B are running in the same direction on parallel rails such
that A is faster than B. Packets of equal weight are transferred between
them. What will happen due to this ?
vA
A. A will be accelerated but B will be retarded A
B. B will be accelerated but A will be retarded
C. There will be no change in A but B will be accelerated vB
D. There will be no change in B but A will be accelerated B
 vA v1
A A
vA
vB

vB vB
B B
The max compression of the spring in when the blocks collide is

k= 1120 N/m
A. 25 cm
10 m/s 3 m/s
B. 10 cm 2 kg 5 kg
C. 2.5 cm
D. 5 cm
 INITIAL ALTERNATIVE FINAL

k= 1120 N/m
10 m/s 3 m/s
2 kg 5 kg 2 kg 5 kg
What will be the common velocity of the system
A. u
B. 2u/3
C. 4u/3
D. 2u
u

2m
2u
m
smooth
 INITIAL FINAL

2m 2m
2u
m
What will be the Maximum Height of the Block on the movable wedge

A. u2 / g
B. u2 / 2g
C. u2 / 3g
D. u2 / 4g u

2m
2u
m
smooth
 INITIAL FINAL

2m 2m
2u
m
What will be the final velocity of the mass m ?
REST
A. u/3
B. 2u/3
C. 4u/3
D. 2u

2m
u
m
smooth
 REST

v2

2m v1 2m
u
m m
smooth
Momentum & Collisions

DPP 2
2 men of 80 kg & 60 kg are standing on a plank of mass 100 kg, that has been placed
on a smooth surface. If both the men start moving towards each other with speeds
1 m/s and 2 m/s w.r.t. Plank. The velocity of the plank by which it starts moving is
INITIAL
A. ⅙ m/s right
80 kg
60 kg
B. ⅙ m/s left
C. ⅖ m/s right
D. ⅖ m/s left

100 kg

FINAL
80 kg 60 kg
1 m/s (rel) 2 m/s (rel)

V
100 kg
 INITIAL FINAL
80 kg 60 kg 80 kg 60 kg
1 m/s (rel) 2 m/s (rel)

V
100 kg 100 kg
A man is standing on a cart of mass double the mass of the man. Initially
the cart is at rest on the smooth ground. Now the man jumps with
relative velocity 'v' horizontally towards right with respect to the cart. The
work done by man during the process of jumping is

A. mv2

m
B. mv
2

2
mv2 2m
C.
4
mv2
D.
3
Mass 2m is kept on a smooth circular track of mass m which is kept on a
smooth horizontal surface. The circular track is given a horizontal velocity
towards left and released. The maximum height reached by 2m will be

R u= 2gR
A.
4 R
B. R
2 2m
R
C. m
3
2R
D.
3
 INITIAL FINAL
u= 2gR
R
2m
2m
m m
A gun fires a shell and recoils horizontally. If the shell travels along the barrel
with speed v, the ratio of speed with which the gun recoils if (i) the barrel is
horizontal (ii) inclined at an angle of 30° with horizontal is

A. 1

B.

C.

D.
A man and a plank of the same mass are moving with a velocity v along
positive x-axis. At the same time man jumps along negative x-axis with a
velocity v w.r.t. ground, then the speed of the plank is:

A. v v
B. 2v
m
C. 3v
D. 1.5v

m
Momentum & Collisions

DPP 3
Semicircular Track of radius R = 1.1m. Balls radius r = 0.1m.
Find the speed of the mass 2m when ball reaches the bottom.

2m
 m
2m 2m
m

2m 2m
What is the impulse generated in the string subsequently ?

A. mu/2
B. mu/4
C. 2mu/3 m m
D. 4mu/3
u 2u
Find velocity of B when A has slide down from it.
Neglect friction everywhere. A

h
m m

B C
Find maximum height upto which block A rises on wedge C
A

h
m m

B C
Find the velocity of A after descending from C
A

h
m m

B C
h
m m
A
B C

m
A

C
 Challenger Type

3 kg
F
2 kg
 At t = 0, a constant
Experimental force is applied on 3 kg block. Find out maximum elongation
physics
in spring in cm.
Challenger Type
A. 6 cm K = 100 N/m
B. 8 cm 3 kg F = 10N
2 kg
C. 10 cm
D. 12 cm
ALTERNATIVE
Experimental physics
K = 100 N/m

2 kg 3 kg F = 10N
Experimental physics
K
F1 m1 m2 F2
Momentum & Collisions

DPP 4
A person of mass 50 kg stands on a boat of mass 100 kg moving at a constant velocity 10 m/s with
the engine of the boat is shut off. With what velocity (relative to the boat surface) should the
person move so that the boat comes to rest. Neglect friction between water and boat.

A. 30 m/s towards right

B. 20 m/s towards right
C. 30 m/s towards left
D. 20 m/s towards left

10 m/s
10 m/s
 A bomb moving along a straight line bursts into 2 parts. Just after the burst one
part moves with momentum 40Ns making an angle 30° with the original line of
motion. The minimum momentum of the other part of shell just after the burst is:

A. 0 Ns

B. 10 Ns
C. 20 Ns

D. 17.32 Ns
Experimental
A ball of mass 1 physics
kg strikesa heavy platform, elastically, moving upwards with a
velocity of 5 m/s. The speed of the ball just before the collision is 10 m/s
downwards. Then the Velocity of the ball after the collision is :

A. 0 m/s
B. 10 m/s
C. 20 m/s
D. 30 m/s

5 m/s
Experimental
A ball of mass 1physics
kg strikes a heavy platform, elastically, moving upwards with a
velocity of 5 m/s. The speed of the ball just before the collision is 10 m/s downwards.
Then the Impulse Imparted by the platform on the ball is :

A. 15 N-s
B. 10 N-s
C. 20 N-s
D. 30 N-s

5 m/s
 Find the minimumphysics
Experimental velocity u for which the pendulum bob performs a vertical
circular motion after collision .

A. 2/3 √5gl
B. 4/3 √5gl
C. 6/3 √5gl
D. 8/3 √5gl
l

u=?
m m

e = 1/2
Experimental physics
l l

u
m m m m

e = 1/2 e = 1/2
n beads identical beads are resting on a smooth horizontal floor which is circular at the end
with radius r = 0.5m as shown. Find the minimum velocity which should be imparted to the
first bead such that nth bead will full circle in vertical plane as shown in the figure.
Take all the collisions between the beads elastic (e = 1).

A. 3
B. 5
C. 7
D. 9

u
1 2 3 4 n
Momentum & Collisions

DPP 5
In a collision between 2 solid spheres, velocity of separation along the
line of impact (assume no external forces act on the system of 2 spheres during impact)

A. Cannot be greater than velocity of approach

B. Cannot be less than velocity of approach
C. Cannot be equal to velocity of approach
D. None of these
Pure Elastic collision Perfectly inelastic collision
(e = 1) (e = 0)

Real life collision

Inelastic collision
(0<e<1)
2 spheres of equal mass, and heading towards each other with equal speeds,
undergo a head-on collision (no external force acts on system of 2 spheres).
Then which of the following statement is correct?

u u
m m
 A ball of mass ‘m’ moves towards a moving wall of infinite mass with a
Experimental
speed ‘v’ along thephysics
normal to the wall. The speed of the wall is ‘u’ toward
the ball. The speed of the ball after ‘elastic’ collision with wall is :

A. u + v away from the wall

B. 2u + v away from the wall
C. |u - v| away from the wall
D. |v - 2u| away from the wall
2 masses ‘m’ and ‘2m’ are placed in fixed horizontal circular smooth hollow
tube as shown. The mass ‘m’ is moving with speed ‘u’ and the mass is
stationary. After their first collision, the time elapsed for next collision, the time
elapsed for next collision. ( Coefficient of restitution e = 1/2)
2πr
A. u
4πr
B.
u
3πr
C. u 2m

12πr
D.
u

u
m
Experimental physics
2 blocks A and B each of mass m are connected to a massless spring of natural length L
& spring constant K. The blocks are initially resting on a smooth horizontal floor with the
spring at its natural length as shown. A third identical block C also of mass m moves on
the floor with speed v along the line joining A and B and collides elastically with A, then

Multi-Correct

A. The K.E of the A - B system at maximum compression of the spring is zero

B. The K.E of the A - B system at maximum compression of the spring is mv2/4
C. The maximum compression of the spring is
D. The maximum compression of the spring is
K
v
C A B
Experimental physics
K
V
C A B
Experimental
Two blocks A andphysics
B each of mass m are connected to a massless spring of
natural length L and spring constant K. The blocks are initially resting on a
smooth horizontal floor with the spring at its natural length as shown in the
figure. A third identical block C also of mass m moves on the floor with speed v
along the line joining A and B and collides elastically with A, then Multi-Correct

A. The K.E of the A - B system at maximum compression of the spring is zero

B. The K.E of the A - B system at maximum compression of the spring is mv2/4
C. The maximum compression of the spring is
D. The maximum compression of the spring is

K
V
C A B
Momentum & Collisions

DPP 5
In a collision between 2 solid spheres, velocity of separation along the
line of impact (assume no external forces act on the system of 2 spheres during impact)

A. Cannot be greater than velocity of approach

B. Cannot be less than velocity of approach
C. Cannot be equal to velocity of approach
D. None of these
Pure Elastic collision Perfectly inelastic collision
(e = 1) (e = 0)

Real life collision

Inelastic collision
(0<e<1)
2 spheres of equal mass, and heading towards each other with equal speeds,
undergo a head-on collision (no external force acts on system of 2 spheres).
Then which of the following statement is correct?

u u
m m
 A ball of mass ‘m’ moves towards a moving wall of infinite mass with a
Experimental
speed ‘v’ along thephysics
normal to the wall. The speed of the wall is ‘u’ toward
the ball. The speed of the ball after ‘elastic’ collision with wall is :

A. u + v away from the wall

B. 2u + v away from the wall
C. |u - v| away from the wall
D. |v - 2u| away from the wall
2 masses ‘m’ and ‘2m’ are placed in fixed horizontal circular smooth hollow
tube as shown. The mass ‘m’ is moving with speed ‘u’ and the mass is
stationary. After their first collision, the time elapsed for next collision, the time
elapsed for next collision. ( Coefficient of restitution e = 1/2)
2πr
A. u
4πr
B.
u
3πr
C. u 2m

12πr
D.
u

u
m
Experimental physics
2 blocks A and B each of mass m are connected to a massless spring of natural length L
& spring constant K. The blocks are initially resting on a smooth horizontal floor with the
spring at its natural length as shown. A third identical block C also of mass m moves on
the floor with speed v along the line joining A and B and collides elastically with A, then

Multi-Correct

A. The K.E of the A - B system at maximum compression of the spring is zero

B. The K.E of the A - B system at maximum compression of the spring is mv2/4
C. The maximum compression of the spring is
D. The maximum compression of the spring is
K
v
C A B
Experimental physics
K
V
C A B
Experimental
Two blocks A andphysics
B each of mass m are connected to a massless spring of
natural length L and spring constant K. The blocks are initially resting on a
smooth horizontal floor with the spring at its natural length as shown in the
figure. A third identical block C also of mass m moves on the floor with speed v
along the line joining A and B and collides elastically with A, then Multi-Correct

A. The K.E of the A - B system at maximum compression of the spring is zero

B. The K.E of the A - B system at maximum compression of the spring is mv2/4
C. The maximum compression of the spring is
D. The maximum compression of the spring is

K
V
C A B
Momentum & Collisions

DPP 6
2 blocks moving towards each other collide as shown. Find out the angle
between the line of motion and the line of impact.

A. 30°
B. 60° v v
C. 90°
D. Zero

150°
30°
 A ball of mass m strikes the inclined face of the wedge normally with speed v0.
The wedge is at rest on a rough horizontal surface before collision.
The conservation of momentum is applicable for
(i) m as system, along Y’
(ii) M as system, along Y’
(iii) (M+m) as system, along X
m
(iv) (M+m) as system, along Y
Which of the following statement/Statements is correct ?
90° X’
A. (i) only
M Y’ Y
B. (i) and (ii) only
μ
C. (iii) only ∝ X
D. (iii) and (iv) only
 m

90° X’
M Y’ Y
μ X
∝
2 particles of mass m each moving with velocity u making an angle 60° with
the string strike and get simultaneously attached to the bob of mass 10M.
What is the value of impulsive tension in the string during the impact ?

A. Zero
B. 2mu
C. mu m u u m
D. 12mu 60° 60°
A disk A of radius r moving on perfectly smooth surface at a speed v undergoes
an elastic collision with an identical stationary disk B.
Find the velocity of B after collision.

A
B
v
r/2
m
m
INITIAL FINAL
A A
B B
v
r/2
m m
m m
The speed of the block at point P immediately after it strikes the second
incline perfectly inelastically ? [JEE Adv]
A. √60 ms

B. √45 ms

C. √30 ms

D. √15 ms
600
P

300

√3 m 3√3 m
After the rebounce till what height will the small ball rise ? m << M
A. 7h
B. 9h
C. 11 h
D. 13 h
m
e=1

h
Momentum & Collisions

DPP 7
u m/s

5m

20

100
2 balls are suspended by 2 equal threads of length l = 32/35 m.. When the ball m is released
the Velocity with which the ball of mass m collides with the other ball is

3m
 m m

l l
m

3m 3m
 m m

l l l
m m

3m 3m m
2 balls are suspended, each of length l = 32/35 m. Ball of mass m is drawn
aside and held at the same level as A but at a distance (√3 / 2)l from A, When
the ball m is released, it collides elastically with 3m. Then the maximum rise
of 3m is
A. 0.20m
B. 0.50m m
C. 0.75m
D. 1m
l

3m
 m

l l l
m l

3m m m
3m
A ball of mass 0.2 kg rests on a vertical post of height 5m. A bullet of mass 0.01kg,
travelling with a velocity u m/s in a horizontal direction, hits the centre of the ball. After
the collision, the ball & bullet travel independently. The ball hits the ground at 20m & the
bullet at 100m from the foot of the post. The initial velocity u of the bullet is -2011
A. 250 m/s u m/s
B. 250√2 m/s
C. 400 m/s
D. 500 m/s 5m

20

100
u m/s

5m

20

100
Find their common velocity during the collision ? e =1

A. 2 m/s (right)
2m/s 1m/s
B. 1 m/s (left) m m
C. 0.5 m/s (Left)
D. 0.5 m/s (right)