3 4 1 8-Conservation-Of-Energy

Colonel Frank Seely School
Exampro A-level Physics Name:
(7407/7408) Class:
3.4.1.8 Conservation of energy
Author:
Date:
Time: 325
Marks: 273
Comments:
Page 1
Q1.(a) Figure 1 shows a skier descending the ramp of a ski jump. Figure 2 shows a graph of
the distance travelled along the ramp against time, from the time the descent starts
until the skier leaves the end of the ramp.
Figure 1
Figure 2
The skier of mass 80 kg (including equipment) skis down the ramp and leaves it
horizontally. The skier gains 55% of the available gravitational potential energy as
kinetic energy when descending the ramp.
acceleration of free fall, g = 9.8 m s–2
(i) One energy transformation which occurs as the skier skis down the ramp is
from gravitational potential energy to kinetic energy of the skier. State two
other energy transformations that occur as the skier skis down the ramp.
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
Page 2
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
(2)
(ii) Use Figure 2 to show that the speed at which the skier leaves the ramp is
about 23 m s–1. Show your reasoning clearly.
(2)
(iii) Determine the height of the ramp.

(3)
(b) Figure 1 shows the path taken by the skier after leaving the ramp.
Assuming that there was no lift or drag due to the air during this jump, calculate:
(i) the time for which the skier was in flight;

(2)
(ii) the horizontal distance jumped by the skier before landing.

(2)
(c) On landing the skier has considerable vertical momemtum that has to be reduced to
zero. The surface on which the skier lands is hard-packed snow. To reduce the
force experienced by the skier, the landing surface is angled at 40° to the horizontal.
Explain briefly how angling the landing surface reduces the vertical component of
the force, experienced by the skier.
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
(3)
(Total 14 marks)
Page 3
Q2.A stone is projected horizontally by a catapult consisting of two rubber cords. The cords,
which obey Hooke’s law, are stretched and released. When each cord is extended by x,
the stone is projected with a speed v. Assuming that all the strain energy in the rubber is
transferred to the stone, what is the speed of the stone when each cord is extended by
2x?
A v
C 2v
D 4v
(Total 1 mark)
Q3.A raindrop of mass m falls to the ground at its terminal speed v. The specific heat capacity
of water is c and the acceleration of free fall is g. Given that 25% of the energy is retained
in the raindrop when it strikes the ground, what is the rise in temperature of the raindrop?
(Total 1 mark)
Q4.To determine the force and power involved when a football is kicked, a student suspended a
ball from the roof of a gymnasium by a long string as shown in Figure 1.
Page 4
Figure 1
When the ball of mass 0.45 kg was kicked it rose to a maximum height of 9.0 m. The
student measured the contact time between the ball and the boot as 0.12 s.
the acceleration of free fall, g = 9.8 m s–2
(a) Assume that air resistance was negligible so that all the initial kinetic energy given
to the ball was converted into gravitational potential energy.
Calculate:
(i) the velocity of the ball immediately after being kicked;

(2)
(ii) the average force exerted on the ball when in contact with the boot;
(2)
(iii) the average useful power developed by the student when the ball was kicked.
(2)
(b) (i) The ball is kicked so that its initial motion is horizontal. Explain why the tension
in the supporting string increases when the ball is kicked.
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
(2)
Page 5
(ii) Calculate the tension in the string immediately after the ball is kicked.
(3)
(c) When it reached half its maximum height the ball was moving at 51° to the
horizontal as shown in Figure 2.
Figure 2
(i) Calculate the velocity of the ball in this position.

(2)
(ii) In one test the string broke when the ball was in the position shown in Figure
2. Explain why the ball reached a lower maximum height on this occasion than
it did when the string did not break.
(2)
(Total 15 marks)
Q5.A car of mass M travelling at speed V comes to rest using its brakes. Energy is dissipated in
the brake discs of total mass m and specific heat capacity c. The rise in temperature of
the brake discs can be estimated from
Page 6
(Total 1 mark)
Q6. A bungee rope of unstretched length 50 m is designed to allow a 70 kg man to come

to rest 85 m below the platform from which he jumps.
(a) Calculate the energy stored in the rope when the man has come to rest.
Ignore the weight of the rope.
Gravitational field strength, g = 9.8 N kg –1
Energy stored ........................................

(2)
(b) Calculate the gravitational potential energy lost by the man when he has come to
rest.
Gravitational potential energy ..............................................

(3)
(Total 5 marks)
Page 7
Q7. The diagram below shows a child coming down a slide in a playground. The vertical
height of the slide is 3.0 m. The angle between the main slope of the slide and its vertical
support is 50°.
acceleration of free fall g = 9.8 m s –2
(a) The child has a mass of 41 kg. Calculate the gain in gravitational potential energy as
the child climbed to the top of the slide.
Gravitational potential energy gained ......................................

(2)
(b) Assume that the slide is frictionless.
(i) Use your answer to part (a) to calculate the speed of the child when reaching
the bottom of the slide.
Speed ...................................
(2)
(ii) Calculate the resultant force acting on the child when in the position shown in
the diagram above.
Page 8
Resultant force ............................

(2)
(Total 6 marks)
Q8. The diagram below shows the principle of a hydroelectric pumped storage plant.
During times when there is a low demand for electricity, the spare capacity of other power
stations is used to pump water from the lake into the reservoir. The potential energy of the
water is then converted into electricity when needed to satisfy peak demands.
Page 9
For this plant the water falls a mean distance of 370 m between the reservoir and the
generator. The mass of water stored in the reservoir when it is full is 1.0 × 10 kg. 10
gravitational field strength g = 9.8 N kg -1
(a) (i) Show that the useful gravitational potential energy stored when the reservoir is
full is about 4 × 10 J.
13
(2)
(ii) Calculate the speed of the water as it reaches the generator assuming that no
energy is lost as the water falls.
Speed of water ......................................................

(2)
(iii) The pumped storage plant has four 100 MW generators. Calculate the longest
time, in hours, for which the stored energy alone could provide power at
maximum output. Assume that all the stored gravitational potential energy can
be converted into electrical energy.
Time ......................................................
(3)
(b) In practice not all the stored energy that is put into the system during the night can
be retrieved as electrical energy during the day. State and explain how energy is lost
in the system.
Page 10
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
(3)
(Total 10 marks)
Q9. Figure 1 shows a spring loaded with a mass of 0.15 kg. When the mass is displaced
vertically it oscillates up and down. A and C show the extreme positions of the mass and
B is its equilibrium position.
Figure 1
(a) The 0.15 kg mass extends the spring by 0.040 m. Calculate the elastic potential
energy stored in the spring when it is extended by this amount.
gravitational field strength, g = 9.8 N kg –1
Page 11
Elastic potential energy = ..................................

(2)
(b) (i) Mark and label on the diagram the amplitude of the motion.
(1)
(ii) Describe the energy changes that occur during one cycle when the mass is
pulled down to position C and then released. You should consider the motion
to be undamped during this cycle.
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
(2)
(Total 5 marks)
Q10.
Page 12
A 150 g mass is attached to one end of a light inextensible string and the other end of the
string is fixed at a point P as shown in the diagram above. The mass is held at point A so
that the string is taut and horizontal. The mass is released so that it moves freely along a
circular arc of 250 mm radius.
When the string moves through the vertical position, the mass is at point B. Neglecting the
effect of air resistance, calculate
(a) the kinetic energy of the mass,
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
(b) the velocity of the mass,
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
(c) the centripetal force acting on the mass,
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
(d) the tension in the string.
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
(Total 6 marks)
Q11.A cyclist rides along a road up an incline at a steady speed of 9.0 m s–1 . The mass of the
rider and bicycle is 70 kg and the bicycle travels 15 m along the road for every 1.0 m
Page 13
gained in height. Neglect energy loss due to frictional forces.
(a) (i) Calculate the component of the weight of the bicycle and the rider that acts
along the incline.
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
(ii) Calculate the power developed by the cyclist in riding up the slope.
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
(4)
(b) The cyclist stops pedalling and the bicycle freewheels up the incline for a short time.
(i) State the energy change taking place as the bicycle freewheels up the slope.
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
(ii) Calculate the distance travelled along the slope from when the cyclist stops
pedalling to where the bicycle comes to rest.
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
(3)
(Total 7 marks)
Page 14
Q12.(a) The diagram shows an object at rest at the top of a straight slope which makes a
fixed angle with the horizontal.
(i) The object is released and slides down the slope from P to Q with negligible
friction. Assume that the potential energy is zero at Q. Sketch a graph showing
the potential energy at different distances measured along the slope, and label
it A. On the same set of axes, sketch a second graph showing the kinetic
energy of the object at different distances along the slope and label it B.
(ii) Using the same axes as in part (i), sketch a third graph, labelled C, showing
the kinetic energy at different distances along the slope when there is a
constant frictional force between the object and the surface.
(iii) Use your knowledge of the principle of conservation of energy to explain the
important features of the graphs you have drawn in part (i) and part (ii).
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
Page 15
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
(6)
(b) In a theme park ride, a cage containing passengers falls freely a distance of 30 m
from A to B and travels in a circular arc of radius 20 m from B to C. Assume that
friction is negligible between A and C. Brakes are applied at C after which the cage
with its passengers travels 60m along an upward sloping ramp and comes to rest at
D. The track, together with relevant distances, is shown in the diagram. CD makes
an angle of 20° with the horizontal
(i) Calculate the speed of the cage at C.
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
(ii) Calculate the force required on a passenger of mass 80 kg for circular motion
at C and state the direction of this force.
...............................................................................................................
Page 16
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
(iii) If the mass of the cage and passengers is 620 kg, determine the gain in
gravitational potential energy in travelling from C to D.
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
(iv) Calculate the average resistive force exerted by the brakes between C and D.
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
(9)
(Total 15 marks)
Q13.The figure shows the track of a funfair ride.
Page 17
Carriages are pulled up to the highest point, A, of the ride and then released so that they
follow the path ABC.
(a) Point A is 18 m above the ground and point C is 12 m above the ground. Show that
the maximum possible speed of the carriage at C is 11 m s–1.
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
(b) The actual speed at C is less than 11 m s–1. Describe the energy changes that take
place as the carriage moves from A to B to C.
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
Page 18
(4)
(Total 7 marks)
Q14.(a) An egg of mass 5.8 × 10–2 kg is dropped from a height of 1.5 m onto a floor.
Assuming air resistance is negligible, calculate for the egg
(i) the loss of potential energy,
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
(ii) the kinetic energy just before impact,
...............................................................................................................
(iii) the speed just before impact,
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
(iv) the momentum just before impact.
...............................................................................................................
(7)
(b) On hitting the floor, the egg is brought to rest in a time of 0.010 s. Calculate the
magnitude of the average decelerating force on the egg.
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
(2)
(c) The egg is now placed in a container that crumples on impact. Explain why this type
of container makes it far less likely that the egg will break.
Page 19
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
(2)
(Total 11 marks)
Q15.A hydroelectric power station has a power output of 2.0 MW when water passes through its
turbines at a rate of 1.4 m3 s–1 . The water is supplied from a reservoir which is 750 m
above the power station turbines, as shown in the diagram below.
density of water = 1000 kg m–3
(a) Calculate
(i) the mass of water passing through the turbines each second,
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
(ii) the loss of potential energy per second of the water flowing between the
reservoir and the power station turbines,
...............................................................................................................
Page 20
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
(iii) the efficiency of the power station.
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
(6)
(b) The turbines drive generators that produce alternating current at an rms potential
difference of 25 kV which is then stepped up to an rms potential difference of 275 kV
by means of a transformer.
(i) Calculate the rms current supplied by the generators to the transformer when
the power output of the generators is 2.0 MW.
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
(ii) The transformer has an efficiency of 95%. Calculate the output current of the
transformer.
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
(4)
(Total 10 marks)
Page 21
Q16. A simple pendulum consists of a 25 g mass tied to the end of a light string 800 mm
long. The mass is drawn to one side until it is 20 mm above its rest position, as shown in
the diagram. When released it swings with simple harmonic motion.
(a) Calculate the period of the pendulum.
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
(2)
(b) Show that the initial amplitude of the oscillations is approximately 0.18 m, and that
the maximum speed of the mass during the first oscillation is about 0.63 m s . –1
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
(4)
(c) Calculate the magnitude of the tension in the string when the mass passes through
the lowest point of the first swing.
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
Page 22
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
(2)
(Total 8 marks)
Q17. Tidal power could make a significant contribution to UK energy requirements. This
question is about a tidal power station which traps sea water behind a tidal barrier at high
tide and then releases the water through turbines 10.0 m below the high tide mark.
(i) Calculate the mass of sea water covering an area of 120 km and depth 10.0 m. 2
density of sea water = 1100 kg m –3
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
(ii) Calculate the maximum loss of potential energy of the sea water in part (i) when it is
released through the turbines.
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
Page 23
(iii) The potential energy of the sea water released through the turbines, calculated in
part (ii), is lost over a period of 6.0 hours. Estimate the average power output of the
power station over this time period. Assume the power station efficiency is 40%.
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
(Total 7 marks)
Q18. A skydiver of mass 70 kg, jumps from a stationary balloon and reaches a speed of
45 m s after falling a distance of 150 m.
–1
(a) Calculate the skydiver’s
(i) loss of gravitational potential energy,
.............................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................
(ii) gain in kinetic energy.
.............................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................
(4)
(b) The difference between the loss of gravitational potential energy and the gain in
kinetic energy is equal to the work done against air resistance. Use this fact to
calculate
Page 24
(i) the work done against air resistance,
.............................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................
(ii) the average force due to air resistance acting on the skydiver.
.............................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................
(3)
(Total 7 marks)
Q19. A fairground ride ends with the car moving up a ramp at a slope of 30° to the
horizontal as shown in the figure below.
(a) The car and its passengers have a total weight of 7.2 × 10 N. Show that the 3
component of the weight parallel to the ramp is 3.6 × 10 N. 3
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
(1)
(b) Calculate the deceleration of the car assuming the only force causing the car to
decelerate is that calculated in part (a).
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
(2)
Page 25
(c) The car enters at the bottom of the ramp at 18 m s . Calculate the minimum length
–1
of the ramp for the car to stop before it reaches the end. The length of the car
should be neglected.
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
(2)
(d) Explain why the stopping distance is, in practice, shorter than the value calculated in
part (c).
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
(2)
(Total 7 marks)
Q20. The figure below shows a skateboarder descending a ramp.
Page 26
The skateboarder starts from rest at the top of the ramp at A and leaves the ramp at B
horizontally with a velocity v.
(a) State the energy changes that take place as the skateboarder moves from A to B.
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
(2)
(b) In going from A to B the skateboarder’s centre of gravity descends a vertical height
of 1.5 m. Calculate the horizontal velocity, v, stating an assumption that you make.
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
(3)
(c) Explain why the acceleration decreases as the skateboarder moves from A to B.
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
Page 27
......................................................................................................................
(2)
(d) After leaving the ramp at B the skateboarder lands on the ground at C 0.42 s later.
Calculate for the skateboarder
(i) the horizontal distance travelled between B and C,
.............................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................
(ii) the vertical component of the velocity immediately before impact at C,
.............................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................
(iii) the magnitude of the resultant velocity immediately before impact at C.
.............................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................
(5)
(Total 12 marks)
Q21. The following figure shows an athlete of mass 65 kg about to perform a pole vault.
Page 28
The centre of mass of the athlete rises 4.2 m during the vault.
(a) Calculate the change in potential energy of the athlete between take off and
reaching the highest point.
change in potential energy .................. J

(2)
(b) Assuming that the centre of mass falls the same distance when falling. Calculate the
vertical speed, in m s , of the athlete when he lands.
−1
vertical speed .............................. m s −1
(2)
(c) Explain how the landing mat reduces the force experienced by the athlete to an
acceptable level when landing.
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
(2)
(Total 6 marks)
Q22. The table below indicates some positions of a person carrying out a bungee jump
from a high bridge.
Tick the appropriate box(es) to show the forms that the jumper’s energy takes at the
different stages of the jump.
Page 29
(Total 3 marks)
Q23. The diagram below shows the path of a skier who descends a slope AB.
The skier starts from rest at A and eventually comes to rest again at C on the horizontal
surface BC.
(a) (i) The slope AB has a vertical height of 35 m. The total mass of the skier is 65
kg.
Show that the skier’s loss in gravitational potential energy is about 20 kJ.
Page 30
(1)
(ii) The kinetic energy of the skier at point B is 11 000 J.

Show that the skier’s speed at point B is about 18 m s . –1
(2)
(iii) The average retarding force acting on the skier is 140 N.

Calculate the distance travelled between A and B.
distance travelled .................................................... m

(2)
(iv) Describe two ways in which the retarding force may arise.
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
(3)
(b) The skier decelerates uniformly between B and C at 2.8 m s . –2
(i) Calculate the time taken to travel from B to C.
Page 31
time ................................ s
(2)
(ii) Calculate the distance BC.
distance .................................... m
(2)
(Total 12 marks)
Q24. A cyclist pedals downhill on a road, as shown in the diagram below, from rest at the
top of the hill and reaches a horizontal section of the road at a speed of 16 m s . The total –1
mass of the cyclist and the cycle is 68 kg.
(a) (i) Calculate the total kinetic energy of the cyclist and the cycle on reaching the
horizontal section of the road.
Page 32
answer ............................ J
(2)
(ii) The height difference between the top of the hill and the horizontal section of
road is 12 m.
Calculate the loss of gravitational potential energy of the cyclist and the cycle.
answer ........................... J
(2)
(iii) The work done by the cyclist when pedalling downhill is 2400 J. Account for
the difference between the loss of gravitational potential energy and the gain
of kinetic energy of the cyclist and the cycle.
.............................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................
(3)
(b) The cyclist stops pedalling on reaching the horizontal section of the road and slows
to a standstill 160 m further along this section of the road. Assume the deceleration
is uniform.
(i) Calculate the time taken by the cyclist to travel this distance.
answer................................. s
(3)
Page 33
(ii) Calculate the average horizontal force on the cyclist and the cycle during this
time.
answer ........................... N
(3)
(Total 13 marks)
Q25. It has been predicted that in the future large offshore wind turbines may have a
power output ten times that of the largest ones currently in use. These turbines could have
a blade length of 100 m or more. A turbine such as this is shown in the diagram below.
(a) At a wind speed of 11 m s the volume of air passing through the blades each
–1
second is 3.5 × 10 m .
5 3
(i) Show that the mass of air that would pass through the blades each second is
about 4 × 10 kg.
5
The density of air is 1.2 kg m –3
Page 34
(2)
(ii) Calculate the kinetic energy of the air that would enter the turbine each
second.
answer = ...................................... J
(2)
(iii) It has been predicted that the turbine would produce an electrical power
output of 10 MW in these wind conditions. Calculate the percentage efficiency
of the turbine in converting this kinetic energy into electrical energy.
answer = .................................... %
(2)
(b) State one advantage and one disadvantage of wind power in comparison to fossil
fuel.
Advantage ....................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
Disadvantage ...............................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
(2)
(Total 8 marks)
Page 35
Q26. Deep space probes often carry modules which may be ejected from them by an
explosion. A space probe of total mass 500 kg is travelling in a straight line through free
space at 160 m s when it ejects a capsule of mass 150 kg explosively, releasing energy.
–1
Immediately after the explosion the probe, now of mass 350 kg, continues to travel in the
original straight line but travels at 240 m s , as shown in the figure below.
–1
(a) Discuss how the principles of conservation of momentum and conservation of

energy apply in this instance.
The quality of your written communication will be assessed in this question.
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
Page 36
(6)
(b) (i) Calculate the magnitude of the velocity of the capsule immediately after the
explosion and state its direction of movement.
magnitude of velocity = ....................................... m s –1
direction of movement ............................................................

(3)
(ii) Determine the total amount of energy given to the probe and capsule by the
explosion.
answer = ....................................... J
(4)
(Total 13 marks)
Q27. In a castle, overlooking a river, a cannon was once employed to fire at enemy ships.
One ship was hit by a cannonball at a horizontal distance of 150 m from the cannon as
shown in the figure below. The height of the cannon above the river was 67 m and the
cannonball was fired horizontally.
Page 37
(a) (i) Show that the time taken for the cannonball to reach the water surface after
being fired from the cannon was 3.7 s. Assume the air resistance was
negligible.
(2)
(ii) Calculate the velocity at which the cannonball was fired. Give your answer to
an appropriate number of significant figures.
answer = ............................ m s –1
(2)
(iii) Calculate the vertical component of velocity just before the cannonball hit the
ship.
answer = ............................ m s –1
Page 38
(2)
(iv) By calculation or scale drawing, find the magnitude and direction of the
velocity of the cannonball just before it hit the ship.
velocity = ............................. m s –1
direction = ......................................
(4)
(b) (i) Calculate the loss in gravitational potential energy of the cannonball.
mass of the cannonball = 22 kg
answer = ................................... J
(1)
(ii) Describe the energy changes that take place from the moment the cannonball
leaves the cannon until just before it hits the water. Include the effects of air
resistance.
.............................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................
(2)
(Total 13 marks)
Page 39
Q28. The figure below shows a rollercoaster train that is being accelerated when it is pulled
horizontally by a cable.
(a) The train accelerates from rest to a speed of 58ms in 3.5 s. The mass of the fully
–1
loaded train is 5800 kg.
(i) Calculate the average acceleration of the train.
answer = ...................................... ms –2
(2)
(ii) Calculate the average tension in the cable as the train is accelerated, stating
an appropriate unit.
answer = ...............................................
(3)
(iii) Calculate the distance the train moves while accelerating from rest to 58ms . –1
Page 40
answer = ...................................... m
(2)
(iv) The efficiency of the rollercoaster acceleration system is 20%.

Calculate the average power input to this system during the acceleration.
answer = ..................................... W
(3)
(b) After reaching its top speed the driving force is removed and the rollercoaster train
begins to ascend a steep track. By considering energy transfers, calculate the height
that the train would reach if there were no energy losses due to friction.
answer = ...................................... m
(3)
(Total 13 marks)
Q29.An ‘E-bike’ is a bicycle that is assisted by an electric motor. The figure below shows an E-
bike and rider with a total mass of 83 kg moving up an incline.
Page 41
(a) (i) The cyclist begins at rest at A and accelerates uniformly to a speed of 6.7 m s –
1
at B.
The distance between A and B is 50 m.
Calculate the time taken for the cyclist to travel this distance.
answer = .................................. s
(2)
(ii) Calculate the kinetic energy of the E-bike and rider when at B. Give your
answer to an appropriate number of significant figures.
answer = .................................. J
(2)
(iii) Calculate the gravitational potential energy gained by the E-bike and rider
between A and B.
answer = .................................. J
(2)
Page 42
(b) Between A and B, the work done by the electric motor is 3700 J, and the work done
by the cyclist pedalling is 5300 J.
(i) Calculate the wasted energy as the cyclist travels from A to B.
answer = .................................. J
(2)
(ii) State two causes of this wasted energy.
Cause 1 ................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
Cause 2 ................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
(2)
(Total 10 marks)
Q30. In the 17 century, when thinking about forces, Galileo imagined a ball moving in the
th
absence of air resistance on a frictionless track as shown in Figure 1.
Figure 1
(a) Galileo thought that, under these circumstances, the ball would reach position C if
released from rest at position A. Position C is the same height above the ground as
A.
Using ideas about energy, explain why Galileo was correct.
........................................................................................................................
Page 43
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
(3)
(b) Galileo then imagined that the track was changed, as shown in Figure 2.
Figure 2
The slope beyond B was now horizontal.
On the axes below, sketch a speed – time graph for the ball from its release at A
until it reaches the position X shown in Figure 2. Indicate on your graph the time
when the ball is at B.
(3)
(c) Newton later published his three laws of motion.
Page 44
Explain how Newton’s first law of motion is illustrated by the motion of the ball
between B and X.
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
(2)
(Total 8 marks)
Q31.A snowboarder slides down a slope, as shown in the diagram below. Between B and C her
acceleration is uniform.
(a) The snowboarder travels 1.5 m from B to C in a time of 0.43 s and her velocity down
the slope at C is 5.0 ms . −1
Calculate her velocity down the slope at B.
velocity = ............................ ms −1
Page 45
(3)
(b) The combined mass of the snowboarder and snowboard is 75 kg and the angle of
the slope is 25 . o
(i) Calculate the component of the weight of the snowboarder and snowboard
acting down the slope.
weight component = ................................. N

(2)
(ii) At D the snowboarder has reached a constant velocity. She moves a distance
of 2.0 m at constant velocity between D and E.
Calculate the work done against resistive forces as she moves from D to E.
work done = ................................... J

(1)
(c) State and explain what happens to the gravitational potential energy lost between D
and E.
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
(3)
(Total 9 marks)
Page 46
Q32.The following figure shows a roller coaster car which is accelerated from rest to a speed of
56 m s on a horizontal track, A, before ascending the steep part of the track. The roller
–1
coaster car then becomes stationary at C, the highest point of the track. The total mass of
the car and passengers is 8300 kg.
(a) The angle of the track at B is 25° to the horizontal. Calculate the component of the
weight of the car and passengers acting along the slope when the car and
passengers are in position B as shown in the image above.
component of weight .......................................... N

(2)
(b) (i) Calculate the kinetic energy of the car including the passengers when
travelling at 56 m s .
–1
kinetic energy ........................................... J

(2)
Page 47
(ii) Calculate the maximum height above A that would be reached by the car and
passengers if all the kinetic energy could be transferred to gravitational
potential energy.
maximum height .......................................... m

(2)
(c) The car does not reach the height calculated in part (b).
(i) Explain the main reason why the car does not reach this height.
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................
(2)
(ii) The car reaches point C which is at a height of 140 m above A. Calculate the
speed that the car would reach when it descends from rest at C to its original
height from the ground at D if 87% of its energy at C is converted to kinetic
energy.
speed ..................................... m s –1
(2)
(Total 10 marks)
Page 48
M1.(a) (i) (kinetic) energy of air / snow (pushing it out of the way)
(not internal energy)
B1
melting / internal energy of snow / ice

or internal energy of air / skis (condone heat)
award 1 mark only for “heat and sound”

award zero marks for sound alone even if explained
B1
(2)
(ii) clear attempt to draw tangent to graph at end of run

B1
correct co-ordinates and manipulation for tangent

or use of 2 points on curve ≥ t = 7s
(no unit penalty) (no significant figure penalty)

B1
(2)
(iii) potential energy loss = 100 / 55 × KE

B1
final KE = 0.5 × m × 232
or
equates any KE to mgh

C1
height = 49 m allow e.c.f. from (ii)

A1
(3)
(b) (i) s = ½ at or s = ut + ½at or correct numerical equivalent

2 2
C1
4.0 s or 4.04 s
A1
(2)
(ii) s = vt or numerical equivalent

C1
Page 49
92 m – 93 m
allow e.c.f. from (a)(ii) and (b)(i)

A1
(2)
(c) force is lower because F =

B1
skier has vertical momentum after landing

B1
change in momentum is reduced

B1
or
F=
B1
skier takes longer time to reduce (vertical) momentum

B1
compare with time when surface is flat

B1
or
F=
B1
skier moves though longer distance (vertically) to come to rest

B1
compare with distance to come to rest when surface is flat

B1
or
F = ma
B1
time to come to rest (vertically) is increased

B1
acceleration is reduced
allow 1 mark for idea that “(vertical) component of normal reaction is reduced”
B1
(3)
[14]
Page 50
M2.C
[1]
M3.D
[1]
M4.(a) (i) mgh = ½ mv2 or correct numerical substitution

M1
13.3 m s–1
no marks for use of equation of motion for constant acceleration
allow gh = mv2 / 2 or v2 = 2gh) but not v2 = 2as

A1
(2)
(ii) mv = Ft (or F = ma and a = v / t)
(or numerical equivalent)

C1
48.8 to 50.0 N e.c.f. from (i) {3.75 × (i)}

A1
(2)
(iii) power = energy transformed / time

C1
or power = average force × average velocity
or P = Fv leading to (i) × (ii) (664 W if (i) and (ii) are correct)
330 to 332 W e.c.f. from (i) and / or (ii) {(i) × (ii) / 2}

A1
(2)
Page 51
(b) (i) the ball accelerates toward centre (of circular path) /
the point of suspension / upwards
or the ball is changing direction upwards

B1
centripetal force / resultant force upwards /

force towards centre of circular path
or string initially stretches producing an elastic force

B1
(2)
(ii) T – mg = mv2 / r or F = mv2 / r (or numerical equivalent)
or F = ma and a = v2 / r
C1
centripetal / resultant accelerating force = 6.6 N
e.c.f. from (i) (0.0375 × (a)(i)2 )

C1
tension = their centripetal force + 4.4 N (11 N)

A1
(3)
(c) (i) m(13.3)2 = ½ mv2 + mg × 4.5
or velocity is same as when falling 4.5 m so ½ mv2 = mg × 4.5

or KE at bottom = KE at half way + PE
allow ½ mv2 = mg × 4.5

B1
9.4 m s–1 (no marks if 9.4 m s–1 arrived at using equation of motion)
B1
(2)
(ii) horizontal velocity is constant after string breaks
or continued movement in the horizontal direction
oridea of KE due to horizontal motion

B1
at max height the ball still has KE so acquires less PE
ornot all KE becomes (gravitational) PE

B1
(2)
Page 52
orupward velocity = 9.4 sin 51

B1
use of equation of motion leading to 2.72 m after the break

B1
orafter string breaks downward force increases /

the upward force ceases to exist
B1
there is greater vertical deceleration

B1
[15]
M5.C
[1]
M6. (a) ½ × (70 × 9.8) × 35
M1
= 1.2 × 10 J
4
A1
2
(b) use of mgΔh
C1
= 70 × 9.8 × 85
C1
= 58.3 × 10 J 3
A1
3
[5]
Page 53
M7. (a) PE = mgh
C1
= 41 × 9.8 × 3.0 =
1200 or 1210 J
A1
2
(b) (i) mgh = 0.5mv 2
C1
v = 7.7 ms –1
A1
2
or ecf from (a)
(ii) F = mgcos50
C1
= 258N
A1
2
[6]
M8. (a) (i) PE = mgΔh or mgh or correct numerical substitution

(condone g = 10 m s ) –2
B1
3.6(3) × 10 J (accept 3.6 or 3.7)(NB not only 4.0 × 10 J)

13 13
B1
2
no up
(ii) mgΔh = ½ mv or E = ½ mv or numerical substitution

2 2
n.b. not v = u + 2 as
2 2
M1
Page 54
85 (84.9) m s or use of 4 × 10 J giving 89 m s
–1 13 –1
A1
2
(iii) E = Pt or t = ½ mv /P or numerical substitution

2
i.e. time = their (i)/400 × 10 6

or 4 × 10 /400 × 10
13 6
or time = their (i)/100 × 10 or 4 × 10 /100 × 10

6 13 6
(allow attempt using incorrect v from (ii) for this mark only)
(note no further ecf for incorrect v)
C1
90 000 s or 1 × 10 s5
or 3.6 × 10 s or 4 × 10 s 100 – 112 hours

5 5
(i.e. forgetting to include factor of 4)
C1
25 hours or 27.8 (28 h) (using 4 × 10 )

13
A1
3
(b) inefficiency of the pump or generator/turbines with no

further detail
(This is a compensation mark and is not awarded
if any of the next three marks are given)
B1
work done/power/energy/heat lost due to friction in pumps or

generators/turbines
B1
energy/power/heat lost in transmission/generator/pump due to

current/resistance in wires
I R heating
2
collisions of electrons with lattice etc

not just energy lost in the wires
B1
KE of water not reduced to zero in the generator/not

all KE converted to electrical energy
B1
Page 55
energy lost
due to friction between water and ground/pipes
or moving stones as water falls
or due to turbulence in water or viscosity of water
B1
distance from reservoir to generator < lake to reservoir

not water evaporation/sound/resistance in pipes
B1
max 3
[10]
M9. (a) ½ Fx or ½ kx 2
C1
29.4 mJ
A1
2
(b) (i) amplitude clearly marked on diagram - must touch

lines or be an accurately drawn equivalent distance
B1
1
(ii) idea of interchange of p.e. and k.e.
B1
appropriate use of elastic p.e. at start of cycle and of

gravitational p.e. highest point + some k.e. in between.
B1
2
[5]
Page 56
M10.(a) kinetic energy = mgh (1) = 0.37 J (1)
(b) υ= (1) = 2.22 ms–1 (1)
(c) F = 2.9 N [or 3.0 N if g = 10 used] (1)

c
(d) T = F + W = 4.4 N (1)

c
[6]
M11.(a) (i) F = W sin θ = W × (1) correct angle (1)
= 46 N (1)
[2 out of 3 if no working shown]
(ii) P (= Fυ ) = 410 W (1)

(4)
(b) (i) kinetic energy of bicycle + rider ⇒ gravitational potential energy (1)
(ii) initial Ek = gain in gravitational Ep = 2.8 × 103 (J) (1)
h = 4.1 m (1)
distance = 62 m (1)
alternative:
(F = ma) a = = 0.657 (m s–2) (1)
Page 57
v = u = 2as (1)
2 2
s= = 62 m (1)
(max 3)
[7]
M12.(a) (i) and (ii)
(iii) A + B = constant (1)

loss in potential energy = gain in kinetic energy for A and B
[or potential energy at P = kinetic energy at Q for A and B] (1)
reason for C being below B e.g. transfer to heat
[or work done against friction] (1)
(6)
(b) (i) clear reference to energy υC (1) = 31(.3) m s–

1
(1)
(ii)
= 3.9(2) × 103 N
towards centre of circle (1)
Page 58
(iii) gain in gravitational potential energy

( = mgh sin θ) = 620 × 9.8 × 60 × sin 20° (1)
= 1.25 × 105 J
(iv) 620 × 9.8 × 50 = (F × 60) (1) + 1.25 × 105 (1)

F = 3000 N (1)
alternative (iv)
calculation of acceleration = (–)8.0 m s–2 (1)
use of F + mg sin θ = ma (1)
F = 3000 N (1)
(max 9)
[15]
M13.(a) loss of potential energy = m × 9.81 × 6.0 (1)

gain in kinetic energy = loss of potential energy (1)
½ mv = 58.9 m gives v = 10.8 (m s ) (≈ 11m s )
2 –1 –1
(b) loses potential energy (as it moves to B) (1)

gains kinetic energy (as it moves to B) (1)
regains some potential energy at the expense of kinetic energy
as it moves from B to C (1)
some energy lost as heat (due to friction) (1)

4
The Quality of Written Communication marks are awarded for the quality of
answers to this question.
[7]
M14.(a) (i) E = mgΔh (1)

p
= 5.8 × 10 × 9.8(1) × 1.5 = 0.85 J

-2 ✓
(ii) 0.85 J (1)

Page 59
(allow C.E. for value of Ep from (i))
(iii) (use of E = ½mv gives) 0.85 = 0.5 × 5.8 × 10 × v (1)

k
2 -2 2
(allow C.E. for answer from (ii))

(v = 29.3) v = 5.4 m s (1)
2 -1
(iv) (use of p = mv gives) p = 5.8 × 10 × 5.4 (1)

-2
(allow C.E. for value of v from (iii))

= 0.31 N s (1)
7
(b)
(allow C.E. for value of p from (iv))

= 31 N (1)
[or a = = 540 (m s ) (1)

-2
F = 5.8 × 10 × 540 = 31 N (1)]

-2
(c) egg effectively stopped in a longer distance (1)

hence greater time and therefore less force on egg (1)
[or takes longer to stop
hence force is smaller as
[or acceleration reduced as it takes longer to stop

thus force will be smaller]
[or some energy is absorbed by container

less absorbed by egg]
2
[11]
M15.(a) (i) mass per sec ( = density × vol per sec) = 1000 × 1.4 (1)
= 1400 kg (s ) –1
(ii) loss of E per sec

p = 1400 × 9.8 × 750 (1)
= 1.0 × 10 J (s ) (1) (1.03 × 10 J s )

7 –1 7 –1
(allow C.E. for value of mass per sec from (i))
Page 60
(iii) efficiency
= 0.2 (1)
(allow C.E. for value (ii))
6
(b) (i) (use of P = IV gives) I = rms (1)
= 80 A (1)
(ii) power output = (0.95 × power input) = 0.95 × 2.0 (MW) = 1.9 (MW) (1)
= 6.9 A (1)
[or I for 100% efficiency = 7.3 (A) (1)
I for 95% efficiency = 95% of 7.3 = 6.9 A]

4
[10]
M16. (a) (use of T = 2π gives) T = 2π (1)
= 1.8 s (1)
2
(b) mgh = ½ mv (1) 2
v= (1) (= 0.63 m s ) -1
v = 2πfA =
max (1)
A= (1) (= 0.18m)
[or by Pythagoras A + 780 = 800

2 2 2
gives A = (1) ( = 180 mm)
Page 61
(or equivalent solution by trigonometry (1) (1))
v = 2πfA or =
max (1)
= (1) (= 0.63 m s )
-1
(c) tension given by F, where F – mg = (1)
F = 25 × 10 -3
= 0.26 N (1)
2
[8]
M17. (a) (i) area = 120 × 10 (m ) (1)

6 2
mass = 120 × 10 × 10 × 1100 = 1.3 × 10 kg (1)

6 12
(ii) (use of E = mgh gives) ΔE = 1.3 × 10 × 9.8 × 5 = 6.4 × 10 J (1)

p p
12 13
(allow C.E. for incorrect value of mass from (i))
(iii) power (from sea water) =
[or correct use of P = Fv]

= 3000 (MW) (1)
(allow C.E. for incorrect value of ΔE from (ii))
p
power output = 3000 × 0.4 (1)

= 120 MW (1)
(allow C.E. for incorrect value of power)
[7]
Page 62
M18. (a) (i) (use of E = mgh gives) E = 70 × 9.81 × 150 (1)

p p
= 1.0(3) × 10 J (1) 5
(ii) (use of E = ½mv gives) E = ½ × 70 × 45 (1)

k
2
k
2
= 7.1 × 10 J (1) (7.09 × 10 J)

4 4
(b) (i) work done (= 1.03 × 10 – 7.09 × 10 ) = 3.2(1) × 10 J (1)

5 4 4
(allow C.E. for values of E and E from (a)p k
(ii) (use of work done = Fs gives)

3.21 × 10 = F × 150 (1)
4
(allow C.E. for value of work done from (i)

F = 210 N (1) (213 N)
3
[7]
M19. (a) component (parallel to ramp) = 7.2 × 10 × sin 30 (1) (= 3.6 × 10 N)

3 3
(b) mass = = 734 (kg) (1)
a= = 4.9(1) m s (1) –2
(c) (use of v = u + 2as gives) 0 = 18 – (2 × 4.9 × s) (1)

2 2 2
s = 33(.1) m (1)
(allow C.E. for value of a from (b))
2
(d) frictional forces are acting (1)

increasing resultant force [or opposing motion] (1)
hence higher deceleration [or car stops quicker] (1)
energy is lost as thermal energy/heat (1) 
Max 2
[7]
Page 63
M20. (a) potential energy to kinetic energy (1)

mention of thermal energy and friction (1)
2
(b) (use of ½ mv = mgh gives) ½ v = 9.81 × 1.5 (1)

2
h
2
v = 5.4(2)ms (1)
h
–1
(assumption) energy converted to thermal energy is negligible (1)

3
(c) component of weight down the slope causes acceleration (1)

this component decreases as skateboard moves further down
the slope (1) air resistance/friction increases (with speed) (1)
2
(d) (i) distance (= 0.42 × 5.4) = 2.3m (1)

(2.27m)
(allow C.E. for value of v from (b))
h
(ii) v = 9.8 × 0.42 (1)

v
= 4.1(l) m s –1 (1)
(iii) v = 4.1 + 5.4 (1)

2 2 2
v = 6.8 m s (1) –1
(6.78 m s ) –1
(allow C.E. for value of v from (b))

h
5
[12]
M21. (a) use of E = mgh (1)
2680 J (1)
2
(b) use of v = 2 as (1)

2
9.1 m s (1) -1
Page 64
2
(c) increases the time taken for the athlete to come to rest/reduced
deceleration
force = mass × acceleration/mass × change in velocity/time (1)
or momentum argument
or energy argument (1)

2
[6]
M22. correct boxes ticked
gravitational potential energy (1)
B1
potential energy and kinetic energy (1)
B1
elastic potential energy ( in ‘rope’) (1)

(condone gravitational PE in addition)
B1
[3]
M23. (a) (i) 65 × 9.8 × 35 seen and evaluated to 22295 or 2231

or 22300J
B1
Page 65
(ii) correct substitution of 65 kg and either 11000J or
18 m s in ke formula seen
–1
B1
18.4 (18.397) (m s ) to at least 3 sf

–1
B1
(iii) distance = energy loss/force or work done/force or

numerical equivalent
C1
64-64.3 using E = 20kJ or 79 – 81(m) using 22.3 kJ

p
A1
(iv) friction
B1
air resistance
B1
further detail eg friction at ski-ice surface
or caused by need to move air when passing through it
B1
8
(b) (i) time = Δv/a or numerical equivalent
C1
6.4(3) – 6.6(6.57) (s)
A1
(ii) use of appropriate kinematic equation
C1
(57.8 – 60.4) 58 m or 60 (m) to 2 sf
A1
Page 66
4
[12]
M24. (a) (i) (E = ½ mv =) 0.5 × 68 × 16 (1) = 8700 or 8704(J) (1)

K
2 2
(ii) (ΔE = mgΔh =) 68 × 9.8(1) × 12 (1) = 8000 or 8005 (J) (1)

P
(iii) any three from
gain of kinetic energy > loss of potential energy (1)
(because) cyclist does work (1)
energy is wasted (on the cyclist and cycle) due to air resistance
or friction or transferred to thermal/heat (1)
KE = GPE + W – energy ‘loss’ (1) (owtte)
energy wasted (= 8000 + 2400 - 8700) = 1700(J) (1)

7
(b) (i) (u = 16 m s , s = 160 m, v = 0, rearranging s = ½ (u + v) t gives)

–1
160 = ½ × 16 × t or t = or correct alternative
(gets 2 marks) (1) = 20s (1)
(ii) acceleration a = ecf (b) (i) (1) = (–) 0.80 (m s )

–2
resultant force F = ma = 68 × (–) 0.80 (1) = (–) 54 (N) (1) or 54.4

or (work done by horizontal force = loss of kinetic energy
work done = force × distance gives)
Page 67
force =
ecf (a) (i) (1) = 54 (N) (1)

6
[13]
M25. (a) (i) (m = ρV) = 1.2 × 3.5 × 10 must be seen (1)

5
4.2 × 10 (kg) seen (1)

5
(ii) (E = k mv ) =
2
× 4.2 × 10 × 11 (1)
5 2
2.5 or 2.4 × 10 (J) (1) (25.4 or 24.2 MJ)

7
(iii) (1) allow ecf from (a) (ii)
39 to 41.6 (%) (1) allow ecf from (a) (ii) unless percentage is
greater than 100
2
(b) advantages, any one:
wind has: no fuel cost/causes no air pollution/no CO /is renewable (1)

2
disadvantages, any one from:
wind: varies/is intermittent/unreliable/causes visual pollution/noise/

danger to birds/has a high capital cost/high ‘start up’ cost/requires
changes to National Grid need (1) allow ‘unpredictable’
2
[8]
Page 68
M26. (a) The candidate’s writing should be legible and the spelling,
punctuation and grammar should be sufficiently accurate for the
meaning to be clear.
The candidate’s answer will be assessed holistically. The answer will be

assigned to one of three levels according to the following criteria.
High Level (Good to excellent): 5 or 6 marks
The information conveyed by the answer is clearly organised, logical and

coherent, using appropriate specialist vocabulary correctly. The form and
style of writing is appropriate to answer the question.
The candidate states that momentum is conserved, supported by reasoning

to explain why the conditions required for momentum conservation are
satisfied in this case.
The candidate also gives a statement that total energy is conserved, giving
detailed consideration of the energy conversions which take place,
described in the correct sequence, when there is an explosion on a body
that is already moving.
Intermediate Level (Modest to adequate): 3 or 4 marks
The information conveyed by the answer may be less well organised and
not fully coherent. There is less use of specialist vocabulary, or specialist
vocabulary may be used incorrectly. The form and style of writing is less
appropriate.
The candidate states that momentum is conserved, but the reasoning is

much more limited.
and/or
There is a statement that (total) energy is conserved, with basic

understanding that some energy is released by the explosion.
Low Level (Poor to limited): 1 or 2 marks
The information conveyed by the answer is poorly organised and may not
be relevant or coherent. There is little correct use of specialist vocabulary.
The form and style of writing may be only partly appropriate.
The candidate indicates that either momentum or energy is conserved, or

Page 69
that both are conserved. There are very limited attempts to explain either
of them.
The explanation expected in a competent answer should include a

coherent selection of the following points concerning the physical
principles involved and their consequences in this case.
Momentum
• momentum is conserved because there are no external forces

acting on the overall system (probe plus capsule) – or because it’s
free space
• they are moving in free space and are therefore so far from large
masses that gravitational forces are negligible
• during the explosion, there are equal and opposite forces acting
between the probe and the capsule
• these are internal forces that act within the overall system
• because momentum has to be conserved, and it is a vector, the

capsule must move along the original line of movement after the
explosion
Energy
• total energy is always conserved in any physical process because

energy can be neither created nor destroyed
• however, energy may be converted from one form to another
• the probe is already moving and has kinetic energy
• in the explosion, some chemical energy is converted into kinetic

energy (and some energy is lost in heating the surroundings)
• the system of probe and capsule has more kinetic energy than the
probe had originally, because some kinetic energy is released by
the explosion
max 6
(b) (i) conservation of momentum gives (500 × 160)

= 150 v + (350 × 240) (1)
from which v = (−)26(.7) (m s ) (1)
−1
direction: opposite horizontal direction to larger fragment

[or to the left, or backwards] (1)
Page 70
3
(ii) initial E = ½ × 500 × 160 (1) (= 6.40 × 10 J)

k
2 6
final E = (½ × 350 × 240 ) + (½ × 150 × 26.7 ) (1) (= 1.01 × 10 J)

k
2 2 7
energy released by explosion = final E − initial E (1)k k
= 3.7 × 10 (J) (1)

6
4
[13]
M27. (a) (i) t= (evidence for correct rearrangement or substitution) (1)
= (correct substitution leading to answer) (1)
(= 3.7 (3.696) (s))

2
(ii) = 41 (m s ) (1) 2sf (1)

–1
(iii) (1) = 36 (1) (m s )–1
(iv) (or correct scale drawing) (1)
= 54 (m s ) (1)
–1
ecf from (ii) (iii) [for scale drawing allow range 53 → 56]
tan θ = (1) or correct alternative
(angle from horizontal =) 42 (°) or correct alternative angle
Page 71
and clear indication of direction (1)
[for scale drawing allow range 40 → 44 (1)

for scale drawing: quality of construction (1)]
4
(b) (i) (= mgh = 22 × 9.81 × 67) = 14000 (14460) (J) (1)

1
(ii) (G)PE → KE (1)
(KE to) internal/thermal/‘heat’ (energy) (1)

2
[13]
M28. (a) (i) = 17 (m s )

–2
(ii) (F = ma) = 5800 × 16.57 ecf (a)(i)
= 96000
allow 98600 or 99000 for use of 17
N
3
(iii)
= 100 (101.50, 102, accept 101 m)
or use of v = u + 2as (= 101 m. 98.9 for use of 17) 2

2 2
or s = ut + at (= 101.7, use of 17 gives 104) (ecf from (a)(i))

2
Page 72
(iv) (W = Fs) (a)(ii) × (a)(iii) or use of mv 2

(= 13.6 to 14.7)
= 2.8M (W) ecf (a)(ii), (a)(iii)
or use of their answer × 5 = 14,000,000 = 14 M (W)

3
(b) (m) v = (m) g (Δ) h or (loss of) KE = (gain in) PE

2
allow their work done from (iv) used as KE
h= or h =
accept use of kinematics equation
= 170
3
[13]
M29.(a) (i) (s = ½(u + v) t) t = 2s/v (correct rearrangement, either symbols or values)
(= 100/6.7) = 15 (s) (14.925)
or alternative correct approach

2
(ii) (KE = 1/2mv2 = ½ × 83 × 6.72) = 1900 (1862.9 J)
2 sf
2
(iii) GPE = 83 × 9.81 × 3.0 penalise use of 10, allow 9.8
= 2400 (2443 J) do not allow 2500 (2490) for use of g = 10
Page 73
2
(b) (i) 5300 + 3700 (or 9000 seen)
or – 2443 – 1863 (or (–) 4306 seen)
= 4700 (J) (4694) ecf from parts aii & aiii

2
(ii) mention of friction and appropriate location given
mention of air resistance (or drag)
do not allow energy losses or friction within the motor
do not allow energy losses from the cyclist
must give a cause not just eg ‘heat loss in tyres’

2
[10]
M30. (a) GPE to KE to GPE
no energy lost (from system) / no work done against resistive forces
initial GPE = final (GPE) / initial (GPE) = final GPE
OR h = GPE /mg and these are all constant so h is the same

3
(b) Initial curve with decreasing gradient and reaching constant maximum speed
before X and maintaining constant speed up to X
B labelled in correct place
B labelled in correct place AND constant speed maintained for remainder of

candidates graph and line is straight
Page 74
(c) (first law) ball travels in a straight line at a constant speed / constant velocity
/ (maintains) uniform / no change in motion / zero acceleration
there is no (external) unbalanced / resultant force acting on it

2
[8]
M31.(a)
Correct answer with no working gets 2 out of three.
OR substitution in above equation OR

= 6.9767 – 5.0 = 2.0 (1.98 m s ) −1
Full credit for use of gsin25 = acceleration down slope. This

yields answer 3.22 m s −1
Allow 1sf answer (2).

3
(b) (i) (F = 75 × 9.81 ×) sin25 ( )

o
= 310 ( 311, 310.94) (N)

use of g = 10 not penalised here
‘sin25’ on its own
Use of g = 10 yields 317
Allow cos65
2
Page 75
(ii) W = Fs
= 311 × 2.0 = 620 (622 J) ecf (2bi) × 2.0
1
(c) Idea that GPE is ultimately transferred to: internal (energy) / 'heat'/ 'thermal' (energy
in the surroundings)
Allow transfer of GPE to KE and then to ‘thermal’ etc
Do not allow reference to ‘sound’ on its own
Correct reference to a named resistive force: friction / drag / air resistance

Don’t accept implication that a resistive force is a form of
energy
All GPE becomes 'heat', etc OR no (overall) increase in KE OR reference to

work done against or by a resistive force
Do not allow references to loss of body heat.
Allow: ‘(GPE) not converted to KE’
3
[9]
M32.(a) 8300 × 9.81 OR = 81423 ✓

(8300 × 9.81 sin 25)
= 3.4 × 10 (N) ✓ (34 411 N) ecf from first line unless g not used
4
msin25 gets zero

Penalize use of g = 10 here only
(35 077 N)
Allow 9.8 in any question
Correct answer only, gets both marks for all two mark
questions
2
(b) (i) (E = ½mv )

k
2
= ½ × 8300 × 56 ✓
2
= 1.3 × 10 (J) ✓ (13 014 400) allow use of 8300 only

7
In general: Penalise transcription errors and rounding errors

in answers
2
(ii) mgh = KE (13 014 400) for mgh allow GPE or E p
OR 13 014 400 / 81 423 ✓

h = 160 (m) ✓ (159.8) ecf 1bi
Allow use of suvat approach
2
Page 76
(c) (i) (work done) by friction \ drag \ air resistance \ resistive forces ✓
(energy converted) to internal \ thermal energy ✓
Allow ‘heat’
2
(ii) 0.87 x (8300 x 9.81 x 140 = 9 917 000) OR V = ✓

= 49 ( = 48.88 ms ) ✓
-1
87% of energy for 140m or 160m only for first mark.

Use of 160 (52.26) and / or incorrect or no % (52.4) gets max
1 provided working is shown
Do not credit suvat approaches here
2
[10]
Page 77
E1.(a) (i) Most answers referred simply to 'heat and sound'. More detail was expected for
full credit. Candidates could have explained where or why heating occurs.
(ii) Many candidates drew an appropriate tangent and used it correctly. Some
simply used the data from the final linear portion of the graph. There were
many instances of careless reading of graph scales.
There were some who applied equations of motion incorporating the 80 m

fallen after leaving the ramp into their calculations.
(iii) The majority of the candidates attempted to equate P.E. to K.E. but the 55%
factor was frequently applied incorrectly, yielding a wide range of answers.
Some used the equation for uniformly accelerated motion which was not
appropriate in this case.
(b) (i) This was often well done. The most common error was to include 23 m s–1 as
an initial vertical speed.
(ii) Allowing errors carried forward many completed this successfully but incorrect
answers to (i) produced ski jump distances of up to 500 in!
(c) Surprisingly few took the hint in the stem that momentum change needed to be
considered. The expected response was that the skier retains some vertical
momentum on impact, reducing the change in momentum and hence, from Ft =
∆(mv), reducing the force. Although such an approach was considered by the more
able candidates the thinking of the majority was more muddled. Many took the view
that somehow the vertical component of the force was split into a vertical and
horizontal component, which consequently reduced the vertical component. Others
took the view that vertical momentum was transformed into horizontal momentum.
Page 78
E6. There were many significant figure errors in the scripts here (the unrounded answer of
12005 J was often quoted as such). Too many candidates thought that they should be
carrying out a gravitational potential energy calculation. Use of the wrong value for the
change in length of the rope was common too.
Many more candidates scored well here than in part (a) although the wrong value for the
change in height was again evident. Some candidates rather curiously subtracted the
value determined in part (a) from their (correct) answer. Again significant figure penalties
were present and trapped many who had not lost the mark already in part (a).
E7. All but the weakest candidates scored some marks on this question.
In part (a) most candidates who calculated the energy correctly, lost one of the two marks
on offer by quoting too many significant figures in their answer.
In part (b) (i), some candidates were penalised for not using their answer from part (a).
Part (b) (ii) proved to be too difficult for many candidates.
E8. (a) (i) Most candidates completed this successfully.
(ii) The majority did this correctly using mgh = ½ mv . The situation was not one of
2
free fall with constant acceleration so the use of v = u + 2as, although giving
2 2
the same answer, was inappropriate.
(iii) There was a good proportion of correct responses but many did not know the
relationship between energy and power. Others failed to get the correct
answer because they ignored the fact that there were four generators or
because they could not convert correctly from MW to W.
(b) It was disappointing that many candidates failed to identify losses due to physical
factors in the pumping, generating and transmission systems. When friction was
mentioned, answers lacked depth and commonly included phrases such as ‘energy
is lost to friction’. Relatively few stated clearly where the frictional force existed.
Inefficiency in the pump or generator was often mentioned without any detail of the
causes. Weak responses included evaporation of water, leakage though soil or
Page 79
animals drinking some of the water.
E9. (a) Use of p.e. = mgh was common here but the majority of candidates did use ½kx 2
or ½Fx to calculate the correct elastic potential energy. A significant minority of

candidates were penalised for quoting the answer to a single significant figure
(0.03J).
(b) (i) Although most candidates appeared to be able to distinguish the amplitude
from twice its value, many failed to gain this mark be marking a vague
distance that clearly was not equivalent to the distance between two adjacent
arrow lines.
(ii) Too often candidates were vague regarding use of the terms elastic potential
energy and gravitational potential energy – calling them both “potential
energy”. Other candidates made no mention of the conversion between
potential energy and kinetic energy. A few weaker candidates made no
mention of energy at all – simply writing about the period of oscillation and
damping.
E10.Candidates failing to equate kinetic energy with change in potential energy in part (a) made
little useful headway. Such candidates attempted to use the expression for the velocity of
a particle performing harmonic motion in terms of amplitude and angular frequency. Since
the amplitude of the oscillator is equal to 90° the mass does not perform harmonic motion
and such a calculation is invalid.
In part (b) the velocity of the mass is easily determined from the kinetic energy.
Most candidates were able to determine the magnitude of the centripetal force in part (c).
Page 80
In part (d) the magnitude of the tension in the string is equal to the sum of the centripetal
force and the weight of the oscillating mass. Many candidates assumed, incorrectly, that
the tension in the string was equal to the weight of the mass.
E11.Candidates had problems with this question. The majority did not resolve the weight and
simply quoted the actual weight. There was some confusion as to the meaning of 1.0 m in
15 m. Those candidates who did resolve the weight often gave the component at right
angles to the slope rather than along the slope.
The calculation of power in part (a)(ii) proved easier for most candidates and, with the
allowance of an error carried forward, the majority of candidates picked up marks here.
Part (b) also caused much confusion. Many candidates were not sure how to begin.
Those candidates who had some idea often used the equations of motion with the
acceleration equal to 9.81 m s–2.
E12.Only a few candidates scored high marks on this question. In parts (a)(i) and (a)(ii) the
more able candidates drew the three graphs correctly, taking more care than has been the
case in the past. It was often not possible to establish exactly which of the three graphs
was being referred to in the many confused answers to part (a)(iii).
Part (b)(i) caused much confusion and many candidates did not know how to include the
effects of the circular track. Attempting to work out angular velocity was a common error.
Parts (b)(ii) and (iii) were much belier. Most candidates found part (b)(iv) to be
conceptually very difficult.
Page 81
E13.The responses to this question were generally good and candidates were able to obtain the
correct answer to part (a) and conduct a meaningful discussion in part (b) in terms of
energy changes. Unfortunately a minority of candidates did use the equations of uniform
acceleration in an incorrect context in this question.
E14.The calculations in parts (a) and (b) were well done although the unit for momentum
produced the usual problems. Explaining the crumple zone in part (c) was often well
answered although some candidates’ answers did tend to lack focus. The idea that the
time duration of the collision was increased and that this was important, seemed to be well
understood.
E15.The majority of candidates gained maximum marks in both parts (a)(i) and (a)(ii), but a few
candidates, who scored reasonably well elsewhere, lost marks in part (ii) as a result of
attempting unnecessarily complicated solutions involving expressions for loss of potential
energy and gain of kinetic energy. In part (iii), candidates often knew the correct equation
for efficiency but used incorrect data.
Candidates often gained both marks in part (b)(i) but gave confused and incorrect
answers in part (ii), with many of the weaker candidates attempting to convert from rms to
peak values or vice versa. Some candidates failed to recognise that the output current
from the generators was the input current to the transformer.
E16. Answers to part (a) caused no serious difficulty and usually gained both marks by
correct substitution of values into the well-known equation. Part (b) provided a greater
challenge, but was usually met with partial success by the use of v = 2πfA. Many
max
candidates attempted to produce the required two values by using this equation twice,
once for v (by substituting 0.18 m) and then for A (by substituting 0.63 m s , which was
max
–1
also given in the question). This gained only two marks. It was necessary to break into the
circular argument, either by energy conservation (giving v ) or by use of Pythagoras
max
(giving A), to access all four marks.
Most candidates were unable to marry oscillatory motion with the circular motion content
Page 82
of Unit 4 in order to solve part (c). In the vast majority of the work submitted this was
treated as an equilibrium problem, with the tension equated to mg. A small minority of
candidates, realising that centripetal force was involved, introduced mω r rather than mv /r.
2 2
This approach was seldom successful, because of confusion between ω as the angular
frequency of the SHM (which is constant) and ω as the angular velocity of the circular
motion of the mass (which is not constant in this case).
E17. This question produced many high marks. The usual error was failing to calculate the
area correctly in m , usually through multiplying by 10 instead of 10 . Only the very best
2 3 6
candidates realised in part (ii) that the centre of gravity of the water dropped by 5 m and
not 10 m. In part (iii) most candidates knew how to calculate the average loss of
gravitational potential energy per second and how to use the efficiency correctly.
E18. A significant proportion of weaker candidates were not able to select the correct
equations to calculate the loss in potential energy and gain in kinetic energy, which is a
little surprising given that these have been tested frequently in the past and do not usually
cause problems. Significant figure errors were very common in this question with many
candidates quoting the changes in kinetic and potential energies to five and six significant
figures respectively. Part (b) proved to be successful with a pleasing number of
candidates able to calculate the force of air resistance from the energy differences.
E19. This question provided excellent discrimination and more able candidates analysed
the situation successfully. Less able candidates were confused with the distinction
between mass and weight and consequently calculated the acceleration as 0.50 m s . –2
Calculating the stopping distance proved more straightforward, although there was the
usual confusion of signs for acceleration and whether the given velocity of 18 m s was –1
the initial or final velocity. Most candidates were able to identify friction as a reason for the
stopping distance being shorter in practice, but were less confident when explaining why.
Page 83
E20. Parts (a) and (b) of this question involved a familiar theme of energy conversion that
has been assessed before. For the most part, candidates identified the energy changes
correctly. The calculation of the horizontal velocity did however, cause problems. This was
because many candidates applied the equations of uniform acceleration which were not
appropriate in this situation as the acceleration changed.
Parts (c) and (d) proved to be challenging. Only a few of the more able candidates were
able to identify the component of the weight parallel to the slope as the cause of the
acceleration. A significant proportion of candidates concentrated on the changing frictional
forces as an explanation of decreased acceleration. Part (d) proved to be too difficult for
less able candidates who became very confused by the horizontal velocity and tried to use
it in calculations for motion in the vertical plane.
Projectile questions of a similar type have been asked before but the impression given
was that candidates found the analysis more difficult this time round. The diagram did,
unfortunately, include an incorrect label of a vertical height of 1.0 m. There was, however,
no evidence that this caused confusion and candidates were given full credit if they used
this value for vertical displacement.
E22. Those who gained one mark usually had the first line correct. Those who gained two
marks usually forgot the gravitational PE in the second line.
E23. Most candidates successfully completed part (a) (i).
Part (ii) was also successfully completed by a majority of the candidates.
The use of the equation for uniform decelerated motion was inappropriate in part (iii). Only
a minority of the candidates appreciated that the work done had to be equated to the
gravitational potential energy that had been transferred to forms other than to kinetic
energy.
Only a small minority did not gain some credit in part (iv) and most stated friction and air
resistance. A significant proportion of these did not identify where the friction was
occurring. Vague answers such as between the skier and the ground were not accepted.
Most candidates completed part (b) (i) successfully.
Part (ii) was also done well by the majority of the candidates.
Page 84
E24. Part (a) (i) was straightforward and was answered very well.
Again, part (a) (ii) proved to be a particularly accessible question and candidates
performed well.
In part (a) (iii), most grasped the concept that energy was wasted but less able candidates
did not realise that the cyclist did work, believing it to be a simple transfer of potential
energy to kinetic energy. Many candidates perhaps did not realise that marks could be
gained by performing the relevant calculation.
In part (b) (i), a surprising number of candidates used time = distance/speed = 160/16 =
10 s. They did not appreciate that the situation involved uniform deceleration and
therefore a kinematics equation should be used.
Part (b) (ii) was generally done well, with most calculating the acceleration and then using
F = ma. It was possible to gain full marks even with the use of an incorrect answer from
the previous question.
E25. Part (a) (i) was a fairly easy two marks for the majority of candidates. Most gave
420000 but about 10% omitted this and lost one mark.
Part (a) (ii) was straight forward for most but a common error was the use of the volume
instead of the velocity.
For part (a) (iii), perhaps 10-20% didn’t know ‘M’ was 10 . Quite a few divided by 10 × 10 .
6 –6
About 14% left this question out, either indicating that they had run out of time or they had
forgotten how to calculate efficiency. About 43% gained full marks.
Perhaps candidates pressed for time had spotted part (b) and sensibly decided to skip
part (a) (iii) and pick up this little gift instead; still a little surprising that only 56% managed
to get both marks even though 95% attempted the question.
E26. It was evident from their attempts at part (a) that during their courses many
candidates had considered the application of conservation of momentum to events
involving an explosion. It was less clear that they had ever considered an explosion that
takes place in a moving object, or considered how conservation of energy applies in an
explosion. Consequently, part (a) of the question proved to be difficult, not least because it
was unfamiliar territory for so many. Part (b), which was formulaic and involved much less
original thinking, brought much more success for the majority.
Page 85
In part (a) only a very small proportion of the candidates were able to produce answers
that were well organised, coherent, detailed and contained correct physics to merit a ‘high
level’ mark of five or six. More answers fell into the ‘intermediate level’ (three or four
marks) and even more into the ‘low level’ (one or two marks). A major failing in most
answers was to overlook the question’s requirement to address the two conservation laws
‘in this instance’. For a high level answer, it was necessary to consider an explosion on a
moving space vehicle travelling in a straight line in deep space. All of the italicised section
is significant. The system has momentum before exploding (unlike a straightforward recoil
example); this momentum has to be conserved because there are no external forces in
deep space. Hence the probe speeds up and the capsule must be ejected along the
original line of movement (although it may not be possible to tell that this is ‘backwards’
until the calculation has been done). Forces between probe and capsule during the
explosion are equal and opposite, but they are internal forces for the system. When
considering momentum, it was common for candidates to conclude that ‘momentum must
be conserved because momentum is always conserved’.
In the explosion, chemical energy is converted into kinetic energy; this increases the total
kinetic energy of the system, which is shared between probe and capsule. Examiners saw
many very weak answers that showed total confusion – such as momentum being
converted into energy, mass being converted into energy, or energy not being conserved.
A serious omission in many answers was that of the word ‘kinetic’ before ‘energy’, whilst
many answers referred to the event as an ‘inelastic collision’. There was seldom any
.reference to conservation of the total energy of the system taken as a whole
Most candidates recovered from their poor attempts at part (a) to gain all three marks for
the calculation in part (b) (i). There were also many awards of full marks in part (b) (ii),
where the main mistake was to calculate only the kinetic energy of the system (probe +
capsule) after the explosion, and to regard this as the answer to the question. Apparently,
.the candidates who did this had not realised that the system had an initial kinetic energy
E27. The majority of candidates were successful in part (a) (i). A few worked backwards
by substituting 3.7 and getting 67.15 m. This only received two marks if there was a clear
statement that this showed 3.7 to be the correct time. Candidates should be encouraged
to write down their answer to more than two significant figures for ‘show that’ questions
.like this one, although this was not penalised here
A very large number of candidates expressed their answer to part (a) (ii) to three
significant figures (eg 40.5) rather than two significant figures. Many used 67 m instead of
.150 m. As a result, few gained both marks
Page 86
The majority gained two marks in part (a) (iii). A common incorrect answer was v = 67/3.7
= 18, where candidates were not aware that this was not appropriate for constantly
.accelerated motion
Most candidates realised that Pythagoras’ theorem was needed in part (a) (iv). However,
a surprising number incorrectly used the values 150 m and 67 m, rather than their
answers to parts (a) (ii) and (a) (iii). Many candidates gave bearings from north instead of
an angle from the horizontal or vertical. The best way to convey direction here would be to
calculate the angle and then show this on a sketch and also write ‘angle from horizontal’.
If there is not a clear diagram then the candidate would need to say ‘from the horizontal
.and downwards to the right’ or words to that effect
.Very few candidates had a problem with part (b) (i)
For part (b) (ii), there was some confusion about energy changes. Most candidates
mentioned transfer of PE to KE but did not go beyond ‘energy lost due to air resistance’
and did not gain the second mark. The question asks for ‘energy changes’ so they needed
to say kinetic energy changes to internal energy (heat/thermal are also accepted at AS).
Some described the motion in terms of forces, velocity and acceleration – these gained no
marks. Quite a few described the kinetic energy changing to gravitational as the
.cannonball emerges from the cannon
.E28. Part (a)(i) was answered correctly by a very high proportion of candidates
Another straight-forward question followed with part (a)(ii); incorrect or missing units
accounted for most of the lost marks. ‘Pa’ and ‘Nm’ were frequently quoted wrong units.
.Inappropriate use of 9.81 for acceleration was also seen
There were very few mistakes in part (a)(iii), apart from the occasional use of s = vt = 58 ×
.’3.5 instead of using ‘suvat
Candidates found part (a)(iv) tricky, with many using P = Fv with v as the final velocity
rather than the average. This would give twice the average power. Many candidates found
20% of the power output and didn’t realise that the power output is 20% of the input power
.and they should therefore multiply by five rather than divide
A surprisingly number of candidates made no attempt at part (b) because they did not
know where to start. Most of those candidates who knew how to approach the question,
gained full marks. The use of ‘suvat’ could only gain two marks out of three. Marks were
often lost here due to arithmetic errors in calculations; typically, forgetting to square the
.speed
Page 87
E29.A common error in part (a) (i) was to use t = s/v = 50/6.7. Students are not always aware
that, for uniform acceleration, the ‘suvat’ equations must be used. Another common error
.was to use t = √(2s/a) with the speed used as the acceleration
Nearly all students were successful with the calculation in part (a) (ii). However, a large
.number stated an answer to more than two significant figures and lost a mark
.Part (a) (iii) was very straightforward and most students got this right
A pleasingly large number of students were successful in part (b) (i). It was necessary to
fully understand the situation to get both marks. There were errors such as subtracting the
KE from the GPE rather than adding them, or only taking one of them from the input
.energy of 9 kJ
Energy losses within the motor are not a cause of the energy loss calculated in part (b) (i).
This is because the work done by the motor is the energy output from the motor. The
energy losses from the rider also are not relevant here. The energy losses are therefore
due to drag and friction. However, the candidate must make it clear that the frictional
losses are between tyre and road or between other moving parts of the bike other than
within the motor. Many students did not state where the friction was acting and many
mentioned the losses within the motor. Many gained a mark for mentioning air resistance
.or drag
E30. The answers to part (a) were generally very detailed with many students continuing
to write to the bottom of the page. Answers could have been more succinct perhaps. eg
No energy lost, so all GPE at A is converted to KE at B which is converted to back to an
equal amount of GPE at C. Some students explained that GPE transfers to KE but then
failed to mention the conversion back to GPE. eg ‘all the GPE is converted to KE at B, so
it gets to the same height at C’. Often the law of energy conservation was quoted but they
.did not explicitly state that there were no energy ‘losses’ due to no friction or drag
In part (b) there was some carelessness in the positioning of the label for B. Many
students had a significant straight section at the start and showed the ball decelerating
.after point X
In part (c) students often stated that the speed was constant but did not point out that the
ball would move in a straight line. They often explained the motion in terms of there being
.’‘no forces’ acting on the ball rather than ‘balanced forces
Page 88
E31.(a) This was quite well done. A few used v = s / t = 1.5 / 0.43 and there was some use of
a = 9.81. Those who had practiced less of these questions got confused because u
.was not zero. Incorrect rearranging of the equation was also quite common
.A common error was to use cos25 rather than sin25 for resolving along the slope )b(
This was very poorly answered. It was expected that candidates would realise that )c(
kinetic energy was not changing, and therefore, the transfer could be easily summed
up as gravitational potential energy transferred to internal / thermal energy. Most did
not pick up the more subtle points that the GPE ultimately all ends up as internal /
.thermal energy and the KE stays constant
It was not enough to say that some of the GPE transfers to KE and some to heat.
That doesn’t answer the question and could apply to many situations. Candidates
should always name the forces. ‘Resistive forces’ did not score the mark, ‘friction’ or
.‘drag’ was needed
Many candidates have learnt that ‘loss of GPE is equal to the gain in KE’ and they
.believe this applies to all situations
E32.(a) The number of mistakes on this question was surprising. Most candidates knew it was
something to do with ‘cos’ or ‘sin’ but they resolved incorrectly. Common errors included
resolving the mass rather than the weight (8300sin25), finding the wrong component
(mg cos25), incorrect trigonometry (mg / sin25) or simply calculating the weight without
resolving (8300 × 9.81). Plenty of practice and assessment on resolution of forces on
.inclined planes is needed for many students
These presented few problems apart from an occasional power of ten error or )i( )b(
.use of weight instead of mass
.As above )ii(
There were lots of really good answers on this question with correct )i( )c(
descriptions of energy transformations and mention of friction and ‘thermal
.’energy
However, some mentioned the appropriate force (friction, drag, etc.) but not
the form of energy (internal, ‘thermal’, ‘heat’) and vice versa. Some candidates
do not know the difference between a form of energy and the process that
causes the transformation: ‘kinetic energy is converted to friction’ being a
.typical comment
.This was generally well done, but some used 160 m instead of 140 m )ii(
Some candidates used a ‘suvat’ equation but this is incorrect physics due to
the fact that the acceleration is not constant. Students must first identify if a
situation involves constant velocity, uniform acceleration or changing
acceleration. If the acceleration is changing, the kinematics equations used at
.AS will not be applicable
Page 89
Page 90

3 4 1 8-Conservation-Of-Energy

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

3 4 1 8-Conservation-Of-Energy

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

3 4 1 8-Conservation-Of-Energy

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Colonel Frank Seely School

Exampro A-level Physics Name:

3.4.1.8 Conservation of energy

acceleration of free fall, g = 9.8 m s–2

(iii) Determine the height of the ramp.

(i) the time for which the skier was in flight;

(ii) the horizontal distance jumped by the skier before landing.

the acceleration of free fall, g = 9.8 m s–2

(i) the velocity of the ball immediately after being kicked;

(i) Calculate the velocity of the ball in this position.

Q6. A bungee rope of unstretched length 50 m is designed to allow a 70 kg man to come

Ignore the weight of the rope.

Gravitational field strength, g = 9.8 N kg –1

Energy stored ........................................

Gravitational potential energy ..............................................

acceleration of free fall g = 9.8 m s –2

Gravitational potential energy gained ......................................

(b) Assume that the slide is frictionless.

Resultant force ............................

gravitational field strength g = 9.8 N kg -1

Speed of water ......................................................

gravitational field strength, g = 9.8 N kg –1

Elastic potential energy = ..................................

(a) the kinetic energy of the mass,

(b) the velocity of the mass,

(c) the centripetal force acting on the mass,

(d) the tension in the string.

(i) Calculate the speed of the cage at C.

Q13.The figure shows the track of a funfair ride.

(i) the loss of potential energy,

(ii) the kinetic energy just before impact,

(iii) the speed just before impact,

(iv) the momentum just before impact.

density of water = 1000 kg m–3

(iii) the efficiency of the power station.

(a) Calculate the period of the pendulum.

density of sea water = 1100 kg m –3

(a) Calculate the skydiver’s

(i) loss of gravitational potential energy,

(ii) gain in kinetic energy.

component of the weight parallel to the ramp is 3.6 × 10 N. 3

Q20. The figure below shows a skateboarder descending a ramp.

Calculate for the skateboarder

(i) the horizontal distance travelled between B and C,

(ii) the vertical component of the velocity immediately before impact at C,

(iii) the magnitude of the resultant velocity immediately before impact at C.

change in potential energy .................. J

vertical speed .............................. m s −1

(ii) The kinetic energy of the skier at point B is 11 000 J.

(iii) The average retarding force acting on the skier is 140 N.

distance travelled .................................................... m

(b) The skier decelerates uniformly between B and C at 2.8 m s . –2

(i) Calculate the time taken to travel from B to C.

(ii) Calculate the distance BC.

mass of the cyclist and the cycle is 68 kg.

The density of air is 1.2 kg m –3

(a) Discuss how the principles of conservation of momentum and conservation of

The quality of your written communication will be assessed in this question.

magnitude of velocity = ....................................... m s –1