WORK AND ENERGY

Exercise 1: Mechanical Energy of a System

At a point O, situated at a height 𝑕𝑂 = 25𝑚 above the ground level, a solid (S), A
taken as a particle of mass 𝑚 = 2𝑘𝑔, is launched vertically upwards with a
velocity vector 𝑉0 of magnitude 𝑉0 = 20𝑚/𝑠 as shown in the adjacent document.
The ground level is taken as a gravitational potential energy reference.
We neglect all frictions and air resistance. Take g = 10m/s2. 𝑽𝟎
1- Calculate at the position O: O
1.1- the gravitational potential energy of the system [(S); Earth],
1.2- the kinetic energy of (S), 𝒉𝑶 = 𝟐𝟓𝒎
1.3- the mechanical energy of the system [(S); Earth]. B
2- Is the mechanical energy of the system [(S); Earth] conserved? Justify. Ground Level
3- (S) reaches its maximum position A where it stops. Determine at A:
3.1- the mechanical energy of the system [(S); Earth],
3.2- the gravitational potential energy of the system [(S); Earth]; then, deduce the height relative to the
ground level.
4- Determine the speed of (S) at B where it hits the ground level.

Exercise 2: A child on an inclined track

A child, of mass 𝑀 = 45𝑘𝑔, starts from rest from the point
A of an inclined track AB as shown in the adjacent A
document (AC = h = 80m).
The horizontal plane through BC is taken as a gravitational potential
energy reference. Take g = 10m/s2. h = 80m
1- Calculate at A:
1.1- the gravitational potential energy of the system (S)
formed of the child and the Earth, C B
1.2- the mechanical energy of the system (S).
2- Neglect the forces of friction.
2.1- Determine the value of the mechanical energy of the system (S) at B.
2.2- Deduce that the speed of the child at B is VB = 40m/s.
3- In reality, the child reaches B with the speed VB= 35m/s.
3.1- Calculate then the mechanical energy of the system (S) at B.
3.2- Determine the variation in the mechanical energy of (S) when it passes from A to B.
3.3- Deduce the value of the energy dissipated due to the forces of friction between A and B.
3.4- In what form does this dissipated energy appear?
Exercise 3: Mechanical Energy of a System
A solid (S), taken as a particle of mass m = 1kg, is released from
A (S)
point A without initial speed (𝑉𝐴 = 0𝑚/𝑠). The solid slides down a
frictionless inclined plane of length AB = 40m that makes an angle
𝛼 = 30° with the horizontal. (S) continues its motion along a
horizontal rough plane of length BC = 25m. α
B C
The horizontal plane passing through BC is taken as a gravitational
potential energy reference. g = 10m/s2.
1- Calculate at point A:
1.1- The gravitational potential energy of the system [(S); Earth].
1.2- The kinetic energy of (S).
1.3- The mechanical energy of the system [(S); Earth].
2- Is the mechanical energy conserved along the path AB? Justify.
3- Determine the speed of (S) as it reaches B.
4- Is the mechanical energy conserved along the path BC? Justify.
5- Knowing that (S) stops at the point C.
5.1- Calculate the variation in the mechanical energy between points B and C.
5.2- What is the reason behind the loss of energy?
5.3- In what form does this energy appear? Determine its value.
5.4- Calculate the magnitude of the friction force f between BC and (S).

Exercise 4: Graphical Study of Energy Exchange

Consider an inclined plane that makes an angle α with the horizontal
(sin α = 0.2) and a marble (B) of mass m = 100g, taken as a particle. M 𝒙
We intend to study the energy exchange between the system (marble, 𝑽 𝟎
Earth) and the surroundings. 𝒊 α
O
To do that, the marble (B) is given, at the instant t0 = 0, the velocity
𝑉0 = 𝑉0 𝑖 along the line of greatest slope O𝑥. Given V0 = 4m.s-1 and
g = 10m/s2.
The horizontal plane through point O is taken as the gravitational potential energy reference.
1- The forces of friction are supposed negligible.
1.1- Determine the value of the mechanical energy M.E of the system (marble, Earth) at O.
1.2- At the instant t, the marble passes through a point M of abscissa OM = x. Determine, as a
function of x, the expressions of the mechanical energy M.E, and the gravitational potential
energy P.Eg of the system (marble, Earth) when the marble passes through M.
1.3- Determine the expression of the kinetic energy K.E of (B) at M by using two methods.
1.4-
1.4.1- Trace, on the same system of axes, the curves representing the variations of the
energies M.E, P.Eg, and K.E as a function of x.
Scale: - on the axis of abscissas: 1cm represents 1m;
- on the axis of energy: 1cm represents 0.2J.
1.4.2- Determine, using the graph, the speed of the marble for x = 3m.
1.4.3- Determine, using the graph, the value of xm of x for which the speed of (B) is zero.
2-
2.1- In reality, the speed of the marble becomes zero at a point of abscissa x = 3m. The forces of
friction are no longer negligible. Calculate then the work done by the forces of friction between
x = 0 and x = 3m.
2.2- The system (marble, Earth) thus exchanges energy with its surroundings. In what form and by how
much?
Exercise 5: Non-conservation of Mechanical Energy
A solid (S), of mass m = 0.1kg, is launched at t0 = 0s from point O with an
𝒙
initial speed 𝑉0 = 10𝑚/𝑠. (S) moves up the line of greatest slope Ox of an
o
inclined plane that makes an angle α = 30 with the horizontal.
The horizontal plane passing through O is taken as a gravitational potential 𝐕𝟎 A
energy reference. (S)
𝟑𝟎°
The force of friction 𝑓 between the inclined plane and (S) opposes it motion
and assumed constant of magnitude 𝑓 = 2𝑁. O
At the instant t, (S) passes by the position A such that OA = x.
1- The system [(S), Earth] gains gravitational potential energy. Why?
2- Calculate the value of the mechanical energy of the system [(S); Earth] at O.
3- Determine at A and as a function of 𝑥 the expression of the:
3.1- gravitational potential energy P.E of the system [(S); Earth],
3.2- kinetic energy K.E of (S) by applying the work energy theorem,
3.3- mechanical energy M.E of the system [(S); Earth] by using two methods.
4- Trace as a function of 𝑥 the graphs that represent the variations of the M.E, G.P.E, and the K.E of (S).

Exercise 6: Mechanical Energy of a System

We construct, in the vertical plane, a track COBA formed of three rails:
- CO: a frictionless inclined rail of length 𝐶𝑂 = 1.6𝑚 and making an angle 𝛼 = 30° with respect to the horizontal
- OB: a horizontal rough rail of length 𝑂𝐵 = 2𝑚.
- BA: a smooth circular rail of center I and radius R = 1m.
A

(S)
C I
R (S)

R
M
𝜶
O B
An object (S), taken as a particle of mass 𝑚 = 500𝑔, is released from C without initial speed at the instant
𝑡0 = 0𝑠. The horizontal plane passing through O and B is taken as a gravitational potential energy reference.
Given that: g = 10m/s2.
The frictional force 𝑓 between OB and (S) opposes its motion and assumed constant of magnitude f.
1- Verify that the speed of (S) at O is 𝑣0 = 4𝑚/𝑠.
2- (S) moves along the rail OB and reaches B with a speed 𝑣𝐵 = 2𝑚/𝑠.
Determine, by applying the work-kinetic energy theorem, the magnitude of the force of friction f.
3- As (S) moves along the circular rail BA, it passes through the position M where it makes an angle 𝜃 with
respect to the vertical as shown in the above document.
3.1- Calculate the mechanical energy of (S) at B.
3.2- Determine the expression of the gravitational potential energy of (S) at M as a function of m, g, R,
and θ.
3.3- Determine, by applying the principle of conservation of mechanical energy 𝜃 knowing that M is the
highest position reached by (S).
Exercise 7: Motion of a System of Particles
A particle (S1), of mass 𝑚1 , is placed on a horizontal plane OB. (S1) is connected to a particle (S2), of mass 𝑚2 ,
by means of a light and inextensible string that passes over the groove of a light pulley (P) as shown in the
document below.
(S1) (P)
𝒙
O B

(S2)

(S1) is at O the origin of the space reference system Ox which is confounded with OB and directed from O to B.
(S2) hangs vertically at a distance 𝑕 relative to OB.
At the instant t0 = 0s, the system S [(S1); (S2); (P)] is released from rest.
𝑑𝑥
The position of (S1), at the instant t, is given by 𝑥 = 𝑂𝑆1 and its velocity is 𝑣 = 𝑑𝑡 .
The horizontal plane passing through OB is taken as a reference level for the gravitational potential energy of
the system [S; Earth]
Neglect all frictional forces and take g = 10m/s2.

Part I: Energetic study

1- Give, at the instant t0 = 0s, the expression of the mechanical energy of the system [S; Earth] as a function of
𝑚2 , 𝑔, and 𝑕.
2- Find, at the instant t, the expression of the mechanical energy of the system [(S); Earth] as a function of
𝑚1 , 𝑚2 , 𝑔, 𝑕, 𝑥, and 𝑣.
3- Applying the principle of conservation of mechanical energy, show that:
2𝑚 𝑔
𝑣 2 = 𝑚 +𝑚2
𝑥
1 2
4- Deduce the expression of the common acceleration 𝑎 of (S1) and (S2).

Part II: Dynamical study

1- Redraw a diagram of the document and show on it the external forces acting on (S1) and (S2).
(The tension in the string acting on (S1) is denoted by 𝑇1 of magnitude T1 and that acting on (S2) is denoted
by 𝑇2 of magnitude T2).
2- Applying the theorem of the center of mass on each particle, determine the expressions of T1 and T2 in terms
of 𝑚1 , 𝑚2 , 𝑔, and 𝑎 .
3- Knowing that T1 = T2, deduce the expression of 𝑎.
Exercise 8: Mechanical Energy of a System
At the instant t0 = 0s, a solid (S) of mass m = 0.2kg is launched from O
with a velocity 𝑉0 of magnitude 𝑉0 along the line of greatest slope of a (S)
plane inclined by an angle 𝛼 with respect to the horizontal level 𝐌
(document 1). 𝑽𝟎
At the instant t, (S) passes by the position M such that 𝑥 = 𝑂𝑀. 𝜶 𝐆. 𝐏. 𝐄 = 𝟎𝐉
Document 2 represents the variation of the mechanical energy and the 𝐎
gravitational potential energy of the system [(S); Earth] as a function of 𝑥. Doc.1
The horizontal plane passing through O is taken as a gravitational
potential energy reference. Take 𝑔 = 10𝑚/𝑠 2 . E [J] Doc.2
The force of friction 𝑓 between the plane and (S) opposes its motion and
10
assumed constant of magnitude 𝑓.
8
1- Is the mechanical energy of the system [(S); Earth] conserved? 𝐌. 𝐄
6
Justify.
2- Determine the expression of the gravitational potential energy 4
of the system [(S); Earth] at M in terms of 𝑚, 𝑔, 𝑥 and 𝛼 2
3- Deduce the value of 𝛼. 𝐆. 𝐏. 𝐄
0 x [m]
4- Calculate the initial value of the kinetic energy. Deduce the value of 𝑉0 . 0.5 1 1.5 2
5- Determine the value of 𝑓.
6- Apply the work kinetic energy theorem to determine the distance covered by (S) when it reaches a
𝑉
speed 𝑉 = 20 .

Exercise 9: Evolution of Different Forms of Energy as Function of Time

A ball (S) of mass m = 200g is launched, at the instant t0 = 0s, in space, from a point O at
a height 𝑕 from the ground, with a vertical velocity 𝑉0 as shown in document 1. The Doc.1
reference of the gravitational potential energy is horizontal level of the ground.
Given g = 10m/s2.
The graphs (1) and (2), shown in document 2 represent, as a function of time, the kinetic 𝑽𝟎
and the potential energy of the system [Earth; (S)].
𝑶
E [J] Doc.1
5
𝒉
(2)
4
Ground
3

2
(1)
1
t [s]
0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 1 1.1 1.2
1- Curve (2) corresponds to the gravitational potential energy. Justify.
2- Verify, at three instants of your choice, the conservation of the mechanical energy of the system
[Earth; (S)]
3- Represent, in the preceding reference, the graph of the mechanical energy of the system [Earth; (S)].
4- Using the graph calculate:
4.1- The speed V0 and the height h.
4.2- The instant of collision of (S) with the ground and its speed at this instant.
Exercise 10: Mechanical Energy of a Pendulum
A 0.1kg metal ball is suspended from a rope of length L = 0.5m. The L 𝜽𝟎
system (rope, ball) is called a pendulum. The pendulum is deviated by an
angle of θ0 = 60o from its equilibrium position, then released from point A A
and swings down to the point B (the bottom of its arc). All the frictional
forces are neglected. The line passing through B is taken a reference for RL
zero gravitational potential energy. B
1- Is the mechanical energy conserved? Justify. Doc.1
2- Calculate the mechanical energy of the system [Pendulum; Earth].
3- Calculate the speed of the ball as it passes by the equilibrium position B.
4- Figure 2 shows the variation of the energy as a function of the angle of deviation of the pendulum. The
graphs (1), (2) and (3) of figure 2 represent the energies of the system. What kind of energy (potential,
kinetic or mechanical) does each represent? Justify.
5- What do the intersection points C and D of graphs 2 and 3 represent? Deduce the mechanical energy at these
points.
Doc.2 E [J] (1)

(3)

C D

(2)
0.05
θ [deg]
-60 -50 -40 -30 -20 -10 0 10 20 30 40 50 60
 Answer key
Exercise 1:
Part Answer key
1.1 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸𝑂 = 𝑚𝑔𝑕𝑂 = 2 × 10 × 25 = 500𝐽
1 1
1.2 𝐾. 𝐸𝑂 = 2 𝑚𝑉𝑂2 = 2 2 20 2 = 400𝐽
1.3 𝑀. 𝐸𝑂 = 𝐾. 𝐸𝑂 + 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸𝑂 = 400𝐽 + 500𝐽 = 900𝐽
2 The mechanical energy is conserved since friction is neglected.
3.1 𝑀. 𝐸𝑂 = 𝑀. 𝐸𝐴 = 900𝐽 (law of conservation of mechanical energy).
3.2 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸𝐴 = 𝑀. 𝐸𝐴 − 𝐾. 𝐸𝐴 with 𝑉𝐴 = 0𝑚/𝑠
𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸𝐴 = 900𝐽 − 0𝐽 = 900𝐽
𝐺.𝑃.𝐸 900
𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸𝐴 = 𝑚𝑔𝑕𝐴 ⟹ 𝑕𝐴 = 𝑚𝑔 𝐴 = 2×10 = 45𝑚
4 Law of conservation of mechanical energy: 𝑀. 𝐸𝑂 = 𝑀. 𝐸𝐵
𝑀. 𝐸𝑂 = 𝐾. 𝐸𝐵 + 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸𝐵 with 𝑕𝐵 = 0𝑚
1 1
𝑀. 𝐸𝑂 = 2 𝑚𝑉𝐵2 ⟹ 900 = 2 2 𝑉𝐵2 ⟹ 𝑉𝐵 = 30𝑚/𝑠
Exercise 2:
Part Answer key
1.1 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸𝐴 = 𝑚𝑔𝑕 = 45 × 10 × 80 = 36,000𝐽
1.2 𝑀. 𝐸𝐴 = 𝐾. 𝐸𝐴 + 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸𝐴 = 0𝐽 + 36,000𝐽 = 36,000𝐽 with 𝑉𝐴 = 0 ⟹ 𝐾. 𝐸𝐴 = 0𝐽
2.1 Since forces of friction are negligible: 𝑀. 𝐸𝐴 = 𝑀. 𝐸𝐵 = 36,000𝐽
2.2 𝑕𝐵 = 0𝑚 ⟹ 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸𝐵 = 0𝐽 (B is on the reference level)
𝐾. 𝐸𝐵 = 𝑀. 𝐸𝐵 − 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸𝐵 = 36,000𝐽 − 0𝐽 = 36,000𝐽
1 2𝐾.𝐸𝐵 2×36,000
𝐾. 𝐸𝐵 = 2 𝑚𝑉𝐵2 ⟹ 𝑉𝐵 = = = 40𝑚/𝑠
𝑚 45
3.1 1 2 1
𝑀. 𝐸𝐵′ = 𝐾. 𝐸𝐵′ + 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸𝐵′ = 2 𝑚𝑉𝐵′ + 0 = 2 × 45 × 352 = 27,562.5𝐽
3.2 ∆𝑀. 𝐸 = 27,562.5𝐽 − 36,000𝐽 = −8,437.5𝐽
3.3 Energy dissipated by forces of friction 𝐸𝑓 = −𝛥𝑀𝐸 = 8,437.5𝐽
3.4 In the form of heat.
Exercise 3:
Part Answer key
1.1 𝑕
𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸𝐴 = 𝑚𝑔ℎ𝐴 = 𝑚𝑔𝐴𝐵 𝑠𝑖𝑛 𝛼 = 1 × 10 × 40 × 0.5 = 200𝐽 with sin 𝛼 = 𝐴𝐵𝐴 ⟹ 𝑕𝐴 = 𝐴𝐵 sin 𝛼
1.2 1
𝐾. 𝐸𝐴 = 𝑚𝑉𝐴2 = 0𝐽
2
1.3 𝑀. 𝐸𝐴 = 𝐾. 𝐸𝐴 + 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸𝐴 = 0𝐽 + 200𝐽 = 200𝐽
2 The mechanical energy is conserved since friction is neglected.
3 Law of conservation of mechanical energy: 𝑀. 𝐸𝐴 = 𝑀. 𝐸𝐵 ⟹ 200𝐽 = 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸𝐵 + 𝐾. 𝐸𝐵
1
𝐾. 𝐸𝐵 = 200𝐽 ⟹ 2 𝑚𝑣𝐵2 = 200 ⟹ 𝑣𝐵 = 400 = 20𝑚/s
4 The mechanical energy is not conserved since friction exists (rough surface).
5.1 𝑀. 𝐸𝐶 = 𝐾. 𝐸𝐶 + 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸𝐶 = 0𝐽 + 0𝐽 = 0𝐽
∆𝑀. 𝐸 = 𝑀. 𝐸𝐶 − 𝑀. 𝐸𝐵 = −200𝐽
5.2 Friction
5.3 Thermal energy or heat Q = ∆M. E = 200J
5.4 ∆M. E = Wf = −𝑓 × d ⟹ −200 = −25f ⟹ 𝑓 = 8N
Exercise 4:
Part Answer key
1.1 1 1
𝑀. 𝐸𝑂 = 𝐾. 𝐸𝑂 + 𝑃. 𝐸𝑔𝑂 = 𝑚𝑉02 + 𝑚𝑔𝑕0 = 0.1 4 2 + 0 = 0.8𝐽 + 0𝐽 = 0.8𝐽
2 2
1.2 𝑀. 𝐸 = 𝑀. 𝐸𝑂 = 0.8𝐽 (law of conservation of mechanical energy since friction is neglected).
𝑃. 𝐸𝑔 = 𝑚𝑔𝑕 = 𝑚𝑔𝑂𝑀 sin 𝛼 = 0.1 10 𝑥 0.2 = 0.2𝑥
1.3 1st method: 𝐾. 𝐸 = 𝑀. 𝐸 − 𝑃. 𝐸𝑔 = 0.8 − 0.2𝑥 𝑵
2nd method: by applying the kinetic energy theorem M 𝒙
∆𝐾. 𝐸 = 𝑊𝑒𝑥𝑡 𝑽𝟎
𝐾. 𝐸 − 𝐾. 𝐸𝑂 = 𝑊𝑊 + 𝑊𝑁 𝒊 α
𝐾. 𝐸 − 𝐾. 𝐸𝑂 = −𝑚𝑔 sin 𝛼 𝑂𝑀 + 0 O
𝑾
𝐾. 𝐸 − 0.8 = − 0.1 10 0.2 𝑥 ⟹ 𝐾. 𝐸 = 0.8 − 0.2𝑥
1.4.1 𝑬 [𝑱] 1.4.2 For 𝑥 = 3𝑚; 𝐾. 𝐸 = 0.2𝐽; 𝑣 = 2𝐾.𝐸 = 2×0.2 = 2𝑚/𝑠
𝑚 0.1
𝑴. 𝑬 1.4.3 𝐾. 𝐸 = 0; 𝑥 = 𝑥𝑚 = 4𝑚
0.8
0.6
𝑷. 𝑬𝒈
0.4
𝑲. 𝑬
0.2
𝒙 [𝒎]
0 1 2 3 4
2.1 𝑀. 𝐸𝑥=3 = 𝐾. 𝐸𝑥=3 + 𝑃. 𝐸𝑔 𝑥=3 = 0 + 𝑚𝑔𝑥 sin 𝛼 = 0.1 × 10 × 3 × 0.2 = 0.6𝐽
Law of non-conservation of mechanical energy: ∆𝑀. 𝐸 = 𝑊𝑓
𝑊𝑓 = 𝑀. 𝐸 − 𝑀. 𝐸𝑂 = 0.6𝐽 − 0.8𝐽 = −0.2𝐽
2.2 Thermal energy or heat.
𝑄 = ∆𝑀. 𝐸 = 0.2𝐽
Exercise 5:
Part Answer key
1 The system [(S), Earth] gains gravitational potential energy since the height of (S) increases with
respect to time.
1 1
2 𝑀. 𝐸𝑂 = 𝐾. 𝐸𝑂 + 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸𝑂 = 2 𝑚𝑣𝑂2 + 𝑚𝑔𝑕𝑂 = 2 × 0.1 × 102 + 0 = 5𝐽 with 𝑕𝑂 = 0𝑚 (on RL)
3.1 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸 = 𝑚𝑔𝑕 = 𝑚𝑔𝑥 sin 𝛼 = 0.1 × 10 × 𝑥 × sin 30 = 0.5𝑥
3.2 ∆𝐾. 𝐸 = 𝑊𝑒𝑥𝑡 ⟹ 𝐾. 𝐸 − 𝐾. 𝐸𝑂 = 𝑊𝑊 + 𝑊𝑓 + 𝑊𝑁
𝐾. 𝐸 − 5 = −𝑚𝑔 sin 𝛼 𝑥 − 𝑓𝑥 + 0 ⟹ 𝐾. 𝐸 − 5 = −0.1 × 10 × sin 30° × 𝑥 − 2𝑥
𝐾. 𝐸 = −2.5𝑥 + 5
3.3 1st method: 𝑀. 𝐸 = 𝐾. 𝐸 + 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸 = −2.5𝑥 + 5 + 0.5𝑥 = −2𝑥 + 5
2nd method: ∆𝑀. 𝐸 = 𝑊𝑓 (law of non-conservation of mechanical energy)
𝑀. 𝐸 − 𝑀. 𝐸0 = −𝑓𝑥 ⟹ 𝑀. 𝐸 − 5 = −2𝑥 ⟹ 𝑀. 𝐸 = −2𝑥 + 5
4 𝐄 [𝐉]

5
4
𝑴. 𝑬
3
𝑲. 𝑬
2
1
𝑮. 𝑷. 𝑬 𝒅 [𝒎]
O 0.5 1 1.5 2
Exercise 6:
Part Answer key
1 Since friction is neglected, the mechanical energy is conserved.
By applying the principle of conservation of mechanical energy between C and O: 𝑀. 𝐸𝐶 = 𝑀. 𝐸𝑂
1 𝑕
𝐾. 𝐸𝐶 + 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸𝐶 = 𝐾. 𝐸𝑂 + 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸𝑂 ⟹ 0 + 𝑚𝑔𝑕𝐶 = 2 𝑚𝑣𝑂2 + 0 with sin 𝛼 = 𝐶𝑂𝐶 ⟹ 𝑕𝐶 = 𝐶𝑂 sin 𝛼
1
𝑚𝑔𝐶𝑂 sin 𝛼 = 2 𝑚𝑣𝑂2 ⟹ 𝑣𝑂 = 2𝑔𝐶𝑂 sin 𝛼 = 2 × 10 × 1.6 × sin 30° = 4𝑚/𝑠
2 The forces acting on (S) along OB are:
𝑵
𝑊 : Weight. 𝑁: Normal reaction of a support. 𝑓: Friction. (S)
∆𝐾. 𝐸 = 𝑊𝑒𝑥𝑡 (Work-kinetic energy theorem) O B
𝐾. 𝐸𝐵 − 𝐾. 𝐸𝑂 = 𝑊𝑊 + 𝑊𝑁 + 𝑊𝑓 𝒇
𝑾
𝑊𝑊 = 𝑊 . 𝑂𝐵 = 0𝐽 𝑊 ⊥ 𝑂𝐵
𝑊𝑁 = 𝑁. 𝑂𝐵 = 0𝐽 𝑁 ⊥ 𝑂𝐵
𝑊𝑓 = 𝑓 . 𝑂𝐵 = 𝑓 × 𝑂𝐵 × cos 𝑓 ; 𝑂𝐵 = 𝑓 × 𝑂𝐵 × cos 180° = −𝑓 × 𝑂𝐵
1 1
𝑚𝑣𝐵2 − 2 𝑚𝑣𝑂2 = 0 + 0 − 𝑓 × 𝑂𝐵
2
1 1
2
× 0.5 × 22 − 2 × 0.5 × 42 = −𝑓 × 2 ⟹ 𝑓 = 1.5𝑁
3.1 1 1
𝑀. 𝐸𝐵 = 𝐾. 𝐸𝐵 + 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸𝐵 = 2 𝑚𝑣𝐵2 + 0 = 2 × 0.5 × 22 = 1𝐽
3.2 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸𝑀 = 𝑚𝑔𝑕𝑀 = 𝑚𝑔𝑅 1 − cos 𝜃
3.3 𝑀. 𝐸𝐵 = 𝑀. 𝐸𝑀 (principle of conservation of mechanical energy)
𝑀. 𝐸𝐵 = 𝐾. 𝐸𝑀 + 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸𝑀
1 = 0 + 𝑚𝑔𝑅 1 − cos 𝜃 with 𝑉𝑀 = 0 ⟹ 𝐾. 𝐸𝑀 = 0
1 = 0.5 × 10 × 1 × 1 − cos 𝜃 ⟹ 𝜃 = 36.8°
Exercise 7:
Part Answer key
I.1 𝑀. 𝐸0 = 𝐾. 𝐸1 0 + 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸1 0 + 𝐾. 𝐸2 0 + 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸2 0 = 0 + 0 + 0 − 𝑚2 𝑔𝑕 = −𝑚2 𝑔𝑕
I.2 1 1
𝑀. 𝐸𝑡 = 𝐾. 𝐸1 𝑡 + 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸1 𝑡 + 𝐾. 𝐸2 𝑡 + 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸2 𝑡 = 2 𝑚1 𝑣 2 + 0 + 2 𝑚2 𝑣 2 − 𝑚2 𝑔 𝑕 + 𝑥
1
𝑀. 𝐸𝑡 = 2 𝑚1 + 𝑚2 𝑣 2 − 𝑚2 𝑔(𝑕 + 𝑥)
𝒙
(S1) (P)
𝒙
O B

𝒙
(S2)

I.3 The non-conservative force (friction) is neglected; then, the mechanical energy of the system [S;
Earth] is conserved.
1
𝑀. 𝐸0 = 𝑀. 𝐸𝑡 ⟹ −𝑚2 𝑔𝑕 = 2 𝑚1 + 𝑚2 𝑣 2 − 𝑚2 𝑔 𝑕 + 𝑥
1
−𝑚2 𝑔𝑕 = 2 𝑚1 + 𝑚2 𝑣 2 − 𝑚2 𝑔𝑕 − 𝑚2 𝑔𝑥
1 2𝑚 2 𝑔𝑥
𝑚1 + 𝑚2 𝑣 2 = 𝑚2 𝑔𝑥 ⟹ 𝑣 2 = 𝑚
2 1 +𝑚 2
I.4 Derive both sides with respect to time:
2𝑚 2 𝑔𝑥 ′
2𝑣𝑣 ′ = with 𝑥 ′ = 𝑣 and 𝑣 ′ = 𝑎
𝑚 1 +𝑚 2
𝑚 2 𝑔𝑣 𝑚2𝑔
𝑣𝑎 = 𝑚 ⟹𝑎=𝑚
1 +𝑚 2 1 +𝑚 2
II.1 +
𝑵
(S1) 𝑻𝟏 (P)
𝒙 Inextensible string:
O B 𝒙𝟏 = 𝒙𝟐 = 𝒙
𝒗𝟏 = 𝒗𝟐 = 𝒗
𝒎𝟏 𝒈 𝒂𝟏 = 𝒂𝟐 = 𝒂
𝑻𝟐 Massless pulley:
+ 𝑻𝟏 = 𝑻𝟐
(S2)

𝒎𝟐 𝒈

II.2 Isolate (S1) Isolate (S2)

𝐹𝑒𝑥𝑡 /𝑆1 = 𝑚1 𝑎 𝐹𝑒𝑥𝑡 /𝑆2 = 𝑚2 𝑎
𝑁 + 𝑚1 𝑔 + 𝑇1 = 𝑚1 𝑎 𝑇2 + 𝑚2 𝑔 = 𝑚2 𝑎
Projection along the direction of motion: Projection along the direction of motion:
𝑇1 = 𝑚1 𝑎 −𝑇2 + 𝑚2 𝑔 = 𝑚2 𝑎 ⟹ 𝑇2 = 𝑚2 𝑔 − 𝑚2 𝑎
II.3 𝑇1 = 𝑇2 ⟹ 𝑚1 𝑎 = 𝑚2 𝑔 − 𝑚2 𝑎
𝑚2𝑔
𝑚1 𝑎 + 𝑚2 𝑎 = 𝑚2 𝑔 ⟹ 𝑚1 + 𝑚2 𝑎 = 𝑚2 𝑔 ⟹ 𝑎 = 𝑚 +𝑚
1 2
Exercise 8:
Part Answer
1 The mechanical energy of the system [(S); Earth] is not conserved since it decreases with respect to 𝑥.
2 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸𝑀 = 𝑚𝑔𝑕𝑀 = 𝑚𝑔𝑥 sin 𝛼
3 𝐺.𝑃.𝐸 2
𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸𝑥=2 = 𝑚𝑔𝑥 sin 𝛼 ⟹ sin 𝛼 = 𝑚𝑔𝑥𝑥 =2 = 0.2×10×2 = 0.5 ⟹ 𝛼 = 30°
4 𝐾. 𝐸0 = 𝑀. 𝐸0 − 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸0 = 10𝐽 − 0𝐽 = 10𝐽
1 2𝐾.𝐸0 2×10
𝑚𝑉02 = 𝐾. 𝐸0 ⟹ 𝑉0 = = = 100 = 10𝑚/𝑠
2 𝑚 0.2
5 ∆𝑀. 𝐸 = 𝑊𝑓
𝑀. 𝐸𝑥=2 − 𝑀. 𝐸𝑥=0 = −𝑓𝑥
8
2 − 10 = −2𝑓 ⟹ 𝑓 = 2 𝑁 = 4𝑁
6 ∆𝐾. 𝐸 = 𝑊𝑒𝑥𝑡
𝐾. 𝐸 − 𝐾. 𝐸0 = 𝑊𝑊 + 𝑊𝑓 + 𝑊𝑁
1 1
𝑚𝑉 2 − 2 𝑚𝑉02 = −𝑚𝑔𝑥 sin 𝛼 − 𝑓𝑥 + 0
2
2.5 − 10 = −0.2 × 10 × 𝑥 × 0.5 − 4𝑥
−7.5 = −5𝑥 ⟹ 𝑥 = 1.5𝑚
Exercise 9:
Part Answer Key
1 The height (G.P.E) is increasing with time until (S) reaches its maximum position and then decreases
with time.
2 At t = 0s; 𝑀. 𝐸 = 𝐾. 𝐸 + 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸 = 2.5𝐽 + 1.6𝐽 = 4.1𝐽
At t = 0.5s; 𝑀. 𝐸 = 𝐾. 𝐸 + 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸 = 0𝐽 + 4.1𝐽 = 4.1𝐽
At t = 1.14s; 𝑀. 𝐸 = 𝐾. 𝐸 + 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸 = 4.1𝐽 + 0𝐽 = 4.1𝐽
3 Graph.
4.1 At t = 0s; 𝐾. 𝐸0 = 4.1𝐽
1 2𝐾.𝐸 2×2.5
𝐾. 𝐸0 = 2 𝑚𝑉02 ⟹ 𝑉0 = = = 25 = 5𝑚/𝑠
𝑚 0.2
At t = 0s; 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸0 = 1.6𝐽
𝐺.𝑃.𝐸 1.6
𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸0 = 𝑚𝑔𝑕 ⟹ 𝑕 = 𝑚𝑔 0 = 0.2×10 = 0.8𝑚 = 80𝑐𝑚
4.2 At t = 1.14s.
𝐾. 𝐸 = 4.1𝐽
1 2𝐾.𝐸 2×4.1
𝐾. 𝐸 = 2 𝑚𝑉 2 ⟹ 𝑉 = = = 6.4𝑚/𝑠
𝑚 0.2
Exercise 10:
Part Answer
1 The mechanical energy is conserved since the friction forces are neglected.
2 𝑀. 𝐸𝐴 = 𝐾. 𝐸𝐴 + 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸𝐴 = 0𝐽 + 𝑚𝑔𝑕𝐴 = 𝑚𝑔𝐿 1 − cos 𝜃0
𝑀. 𝐸𝐴 = 0.1 × 10 × 0.5 × 1 − cos 60° = 0.25𝐽
3 By applying the law of conservation of mechanical energy between A and B:
𝑀. 𝐸𝐴 = 𝑀. 𝐸𝐵 ⟹ 0.25 = 𝐾. 𝐸𝐵 + 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸𝐵 with 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸𝐵 = 0
1 1
0.25 = 2 𝑚𝑣𝐵2 ⟹ 0.25 = 2 × 0.1 × 𝑣𝐵2 ⟹ 𝑣𝐵2 = 5𝑚/𝑠
4 Curve 1: M.E since it is constant with respect to time
Curve 2: G.P.E since at 𝜃 = 60°; 𝐾. 𝐸 = 0𝐽 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸 = 𝑀. 𝐸 = 0.25𝐽
Curve 3: K.E since at 𝜃 = 0°; 𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸 = 0 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐾. 𝐸 = 𝑀. 𝐸 = 0.25𝐽
5 C and D correspond to the position where the kinetic energy and the gravitational potential energy of
the ball are equal.
𝐺. 𝑃. 𝐸𝐶 = 𝐾. 𝐸𝐶 = 0.125𝐽 (Similarly for D).
At these positions 𝑀. 𝐸𝐶 = 𝑀. 𝐸𝐷 = 0.25𝐽 the mechanical energy is conserved.