Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises

Chapter 7

More about Force

Checkpoint 3 (p.143)
Checkpoint
1. dummy
Checkpoint 1 (p.135)

1. B The tension in thread L balances the total weight

of the 3 shells beneath it, and this is equal to 30 N.

2. B The spring in the spring balance is stretched

until it reads 100 N. The spring balance experiences
two horizontal forces of 100 N, i.e. a leftward and
a rightward pulling force. This is why it remains
stationary. Nonetheless, the tension in the spring
must be exactly 100 N in order to balance the 100 N
weight on the right. Resultant force = 2.41 N (N48.4W)

When you weigh an object vertically, you have to hold the 2. (a) No
spring balance still, so that the tension in the spring shows the (b) Yes
force exerted on its hook. (c) Yes
(d) No
Checkpoint 2 (p.138)
3. (a) x -component = 8 sin 30 = 4N

1. A Take the direction to the right as positive. y -component = 8 cos 30 = 6.93 N

Consider the two blocks as a single system. By (b) x -component = 5 cos 50 = 3.21 N

F net = ma , we get y -component = 5 sin 50 = 3.83 N

3 = (1 + 2)a a = 1 m s2
Checkpoint 4 (p.146)
So the acceleration of the 1 kg block is 1 m s2 . .
1. C Adding the forces algebraically, we get
2. C The force F does not act on B , and hence option
42 + (3 2)2 N.
A is incorrect. p
2. Sum of x -components = 2 cos 30 = 3 N
As A remains at rest, the friction acting on A by B
points to the right in order to balance the leftward Sum of y -components = 2 sin 30 1 = 0
p
force F . By Newtons third law, the friction acting Resultant F = 3N (towards the +x -direction)
on B by A , denoted by f A , points to the left. Hence,
option B is incorrect. Checkpoint 5 (p.155)
Similarly, as B remains at rest, the friction acting
on B by the ground, denoted by f g , points to the left 1. A As the cart moves at a constant speed, there is
in order to balance the rightward force f A . Hence, no net force acting on it.
option C is correct.
2. B Since the string is held still, all the horizontal

force components balance each other. Hence we get

F = T cos + T cos = 2T cos

2 | More about Force Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises

3. (a) C sum of clockwise moment = sum of anticlock-

Option A is incorrect because the normal wise moment.
reaction R should be perpendicular to the
supporting surface (i.e. the water chute). (600)(1.2) = (550)(0.6 + 0.4) + W (0.4)
720 550
Option B is incorrect because the direction W= = 425 N
0.4
of the friction f should be opposite to the
direction of motion of the girl. (b) In equilibrium, the net force acting on the
(b) B Adding up all the forces acting on the girl
seesaw is zero.
along her direction of motion, we get R = 550 + 425 + 100 + 600 = 1675 N

F net = mg sin f .

Exercise
Checkpoint 6 (p.164)

Exercise 7.1 (p.138)

1. (a) Net moment = (5)(0.2) = 1 N m (clockwise)
(b) Net moment = (5 sin 30)(0.2) = 0.5 N m 1. B Consider the boxes as a single system. By
(anticlockwise) F net = ma , we have
(c) Net moment = (5)(0.1) (2)(0.1 + 0.1) = 0.1 N m
6 3 = (2 + 1)a a = 1 m s2
(anticlockwise)

2. Since the lever is balanced, its net moment is zero. 2. A Let T A and TB be the tensions in strings A and B

Taking moments about O , we get respectively.

sum of clockwise moments = sum of anticlockwise Consider the blocks as a single system. By Fnet = ma ,
moments we have
TB
TB = (2 + 1)a a =
3
(1)(9.81)(0.4) + m(9.81)(0.4 + 0.4) = (2)(9.81)(0.8)
Consider the 1 kg block alone. By Fnet = ma , we have
1.6 0.4
m=
0.8 TB
T A = (1)(a) =
= 1.5 kg 3

Therefore T A : TB = 1 : 3.
Checkpoint 7 (p.173)
OR: Let a be the common acceleration of the blocks.
For the 1 kg block, T A = (1)(a) = a .
1. (a) T
For the 2 kg block, TB T A = (2)(a) = 2T A TB = 3a .
(b) F The c.g. of a metal ring lies at its centre,
which is outside the ring itself. 3. B Consider the boxes as a single system. By
(c) T F net = ma , we have

(d) An object experiencing a zero net force

3 = (1 + 1 + 1)a a = 1 m s2
F

may undergoing uniform motion. Similarly,

an object experiencing a zero net moment may
Consider A alone.
undergoing uniform rotational motion.

2. Bus A will topple, because its c.g. lies outside of its

supporting base.

3. (a) In equilibrium, the net moment on the seesaw

is zero.
Taking moments about the pivot O , we get By Fnet = ma , we have

f B = (1)(1) = 1 N
Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises More about Force |3

Consider B alone. The new acceleration is 2.5 m s2 towards the

right.

7. (a) Take the direction to the right as positive.

Consider the blocks as a single system. By
F net = ma , we have

4 = (2 + 1 + 1)a a = 1 m s2
We have f A = f B = 1 N because the forces form an
actionreaction pair. By Fnet = ma , we have The common acceleration is 1 m s2 towards
the right.
fC f A = (1)(1) fC = 2 N
(b) (i) Consider P alone. By Fnet = ma , we have
So the ratio is 1 : 2.
TPQ = (2)(1) = 2 N
4. B In Fig. a, we have T = W , where W is the weight
of the block. In Fig. b, we have 2T = W T = T2 . The tension in the string connecting P and
Q is 2N .
5. (a) Take the direction to the right as positive.
(ii) Consider P and Q as a single system. By
Consider the trolleys as a single system. By
F net = ma , we have
F net = ma , we have

TQR = (2 + 1)(1) = 3 N
1 = (0.2 + 0.2)a a = 2.5 m s2

The tension in the string connecting Q and

The common acceleration of the trolleys is
R is 3 N .
2.5 m s2 towards the right.
(c) Consider the blocks and the plasticine as a
(b) dummy
single system. By Fnet = ma , we have

4 = (2 + 1 + 1 + 3)a a = 0.5714 m s2

Consider P alone. By Fnet = ma , we have

Consider trolley A alone. By Fnet = ma , we have
TPQ = (2)(0.5714) 1.14 N
1 T = (0.2)(2.5) T = 0.5 N
The tension in the string connecting P and Q is
The tension in the string is 0.5 N . 1.14 N .

6. (a) Take the direction to the right as positive. Consider P and Q as a single system. By
Consider the blocks as a single system. By F net = ma , we have

F net = ma , we have
TQR = (2 + 1 + 3)(0.5714) 3.43 N
2
15 = (4 + 1)a a = 3 m s
The tension in the string connecting Q and R is
3.43 N .
Consider B alone. By Fnet = ma , we have
8. Consider the mass and the block as a single system.
F = (1)(3) = 3 N

The force acting on B by A is 3N towards the

right.
(b) Consider the three blocks as a whole system.
By Fnet = ma , we have

15 = (1 + 1 + 4)a a = 2.5 m s2
4 | More about Force Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises

Take the direction of motion of the mass as positive. (b) dummy

By Fnet = ma , we have

mg f = (M + m)a
(0.25)(9.81) f = (0.5 + 0.25)(2)
f = 0.9525 0.953 N

The friction acting on the block is 0.953 N towards

the left. Consider C alone. By Fnet = ma , we have

9. (a) The 0.4 kg mass will fall. T 1 mC g = mC a

(b) Take the direction of motion of the 0.4 kg mass T1 (0.4)(9.81) = (0.4)(0.481)
as positive. T1 4.12 N
Consider the masses as a single system. By
F net = ma , we have Therefore the tension in the string connecting
B and C is 4.12 N .
M g mg = (M + m)a
Consider A alone. By Fnet = ma , we have
(0.4)(9.81) (0.2)(9.81) = (0.4 + 0.2)a
a = 3.27 m s2 m A g T2 = m A a
(0.6)(9.81) T2 = (0.6)(0.481)
Consider the 0.4 kg mass alone. T2 5.60 N

Therefore the tension in the string connecting

A and B is 5.60 N .

By Fnet = ma , we have Exercise 7.2 (p.147)

(0.4)(9.81) T = (0.4)(3.27) T 2.62 N 1. (a) dummy (b) dummy

The tension in the string is 2.62 N .

10. (a) Take the direction to the right as positive.

Consider the blocks as a single system.

2. (a) dummy (b) dummy

By Fnet = ma , we have

m A g mC g f = (m A + m B + mC )a
m A g mC g f
a=
m A + m B + mC
(0.6 0.4)(9.81) 1
= 3. (a) x -component: T cos 30
0.6 + 1 + 0.4
2 y -component: T sin 30
= 0.481 m s
(b) x -component: mg sin 30
2
The acceleration of B is 0.481 m s towards the
y -component: mg cos 30
right.
Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises More about Force |5

4. (a) dummy (c) dummy

Hence, the resultant is 1N upwards. Hence, the resultant is 0 .

(b) dummy 5. (a) If = 0, then the magnitude of the resultant

#
force F is F = 1 + 1 = 2 N .
(b) If = 45, we have

#
x -component of F :

F x = 1 + (1)(cos 45) = 1.707 N

#
y -component of F :

F y = (1)(sin 45) = 0.7071 N

#
Magnitude of F :

F= F x 2 + F y 2 = 1.7072 + 0.70712 1.85 N

(c) If = 90, by Pythagoras theorem, the

Hence, the resultant is 1N downwards. #
magnitude of F

F= 12 + 12 1.41 N

(d) If = 135, we have

#
x -component of F

F x = 1 (1)(cos 45) = 0.2929 N

6 | More about Force Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises

#
y -component of F 8. By symmetry, we may only consider the nail in the
top left-hand corner. The magnitude of the resultant
F y = (1)(sin 45) = 0.7071 N force acting on the nail is
#
Magnitude of F F= 0.52 + 0.52 0.707 N

F= Fx 2 + F y 2 = 0.29292 + 0.70712 0.765 N Let be the angle between the resultant force and
the horizontal.
6. De ine the x and y -direction as shown. 0.5
tan = = 45
0.5

Due to symmetry, the resultant forces on the four

nails are 0.707 N and they all point to the centre of
the board.

x -component of the resultant force: 9. Let the direction of F1 be the +x direction as shown.

F x = 1500 + 1200 cos 75 = 1811 N

y -component of the resultant force:

F y = 1200 sin 75 = 1159 N

Magnitude of the resultant force:

Since F1 has no y -component, F1x = 12 N and F1y = 0.
F= Fx 2 + F y 2 = 18112 + 11592 2150 N The y -component of F must be solely provided by
F 2 . Hence, we have
Let be the angle between the resultant force and
the +x direction. The direction of the resultant force
is given by

Fy 1159
tan = = 32.6
Fx 1811

The resultant force is 2150 N and makes an angle

of 32.6 with the 1500 N force.
F 2y = F sin 30 = 20 sin 30 = 10 N
7. (a) The forces are opposite to each other. Hence, F 2x = F cos 30 F 1x = 20 cos 30 12 = 5.321 N

F = F 2 F 1 = 15 8 = 7 N Magnitude of F2 :

(b) The forces are perpendicular to each other. F2 = F 2x 2 + F 2y 2 = 5.3212 + 102 11.3 N
Hence,
Direction of F2 :
F = F 1 2 + F 2 2 = 82 + 152 = 17 N
F 2y 10
tan = = 62.0
F 2x 5.321
(c) The forces are acting in the same direction.
Hence, So F2 has a magnitude of 11.3 N and makes an
angle of 62.0 with F1 .
F = F 1 + F 2 = 8 + 15 = 23 N
Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises More about Force |7

Exercise 7.3 (p.156) (b) dummy

1. (a) dummy

x -direction: mg sin 30 f = ma ;
y -direction: R = mg cos 30
(b) dummy
3. (a) F increases a increases
(b) increases a decreases
(c) m increases a decreases
F cos
F cos = ma a = m

4. A The friction in region 1 is zero because the block

moves together with the belt without slipping. The

(c) dummy
friction in region 2 is non-zero because it balances
the component of the weight of the block along the
slope.

5. D For the bee to be at rest or moving at a constant

speed, all the forces acting on it must be balanced,

and this is possible in the given situation.
(d) dummy 6. dummy

2. (a) dummy
.

Take the direction to the right as positive.

Consider the horizontal forces acting on the
suitcase. By Fnet = ma , we have

100 cos 40 f = (20)(1) f 56.6 N

So the friction acting on the suitcase is 56.6 N

x -direction: R sin 30 f cos 30 = ma cos 30; towards the left.

y -direction: mg R cos 30 f sin 30 = ma sin 30 7. Consider the vertical forces acting on the painting.
By Fnet = ma , we have

2T sin mg = 0
8 | More about Force Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises

Rearranging the equation, we have Since the T-shirt is at rest, the forces acting on
it are balanced.
mg (1)(9.81)
sin = = 37.8 Considering the horizontal components of the
2T (2)(8)
forces, we have
8. (a) Since the normal reaction R balances out the
component of the weight perpendicular to the T A cos 45 TB cos 30 = 0
p p
ramp, it is given by 2T A 3TB
=0
2 2
p p
R = mg cos 2T A 3TB = 0 (1)
= (3000)(9.81) cos 6
Considering the vertical components of the
= 2.93 104 N
forces, we have
(b) dummy
T A sin 45 + TB sin 30 = (1.2)(9.81)
p
2T A TB
+ = 11.772
2 2
p
2T A + TB = 23.544 (2)

(2) (1), we obtain

p
(1 + 3)TB = 23.544 TB = 8.618 8.62 N

Take the direction up the ramp as positive. Putting TB = 8.618 N into (1), we get
Consider the forces along the ramp when the
p p
block moves at a constant speed. By Fnet = ma , 2T A 3(8.618) = 0 T A = 10.6 N
we have
So the tensions in strings A and B are 10.6 N
F mg sin f = ma and 8.62 N respectively.
18 000 (3000)(9.81) sin 6 f = 0 (b) If the weight of the T-shirt decreases, both T A
f = 14 920 14 900 N and TB decrease.

The friction acting on the block is 14 900 N.
Consider the forces along the ramp when the
block accelerates. By Fnet = ma , we have
F mg sin f = ma
F (3000)(9.81) sin 6 14 920 = (3000)(0.2)
F 18 600 N
Therefore, the pulling force required is
18 600 N up the ramp.
9. (a) dummy
10. The angle between the track and the horizontal
decreases along the track. Besides, the only force
acting on the block is its weight.
As the block slides down the track, the component
of its weight along the direction of motion (i.e.
mg sin ) decreases. Hence, the component of its
acceleration in that direction also decreases.
11. Weigh yourself on a scale placed on level ground.
Record your weight W .
Weigh yourself again on a scale placed on a slope of
inclination . Record the normal reaction R exerted
on you by the ground.
When you are at rest, the normal reaction R is equal
to the component of your weight perpendicular to
the slope, i.e. R = W cos , and hence we can ind .
Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises More about Force |9

12. (a) The doll is swinging to the right in the car due Exercise 7.4 (p.173)
to inertia, and so the car is travelling to the left.
(b) dummy 1. (a) F increases increases
(b) d increases increases

2. (a) d = 6002
300 = 4m

5004
(b) W = 5 = 400 N

3. A The moment about the hinge is given by =

F sin , and so increases with increasing .

4. A Taking moments about the pivot, we get

Considering the vertical components of the
forces acting on the doll, we have (30g
)(x) + (60g
)(2x) = (30g
)y
150x = 30y
T cos = mg (1)
x : y =1:5

Considering the horizontal components of the

5. A Increasing the load increases the clockwise mo-
forces acting on the doll, we have
ment on the crane about the pivot. To maintain the
T sin = ma (2) equilibrium of the crane, the counterweight should
be moved to the left to increase the anticlockwise
(2) moment on the crane about the pivot.
(1) , we have

a 3 6. The moment of the couple is given by

tan = = 17.0
g 9.81 ( ) ( )

=F sin + F sin = F sin
2 2
(c) The following shows the free body diagram
of the doll if air resistance is taken into the
7. (a) The vertical net force on the plate = 2 2 = 0.
account.
The horizontal net force on the plate = 1 N
towards the right.
So the net force acting on the plate is 1N

towards the right.

(b) The sum of the clockwise moment about O
= 2 0.5 = 1 N m.
The sum of the anticlockwise moment about O
= 1 0.5 = 0.5 N m.
Considering the horizontal direction, we have
The net moment about O is 0.5 N m

T sin f = ma T sin > T sin (clockwise).

(c) The sum of the clockwise moment about P
Hence, the horizontal component of the
= 2 0.5 = 1 N m.
tension increases.
The sum of the anticlockwise moment about P
On the other hand, the vertical component of
= 1 1 = 1 N m.
the tension remains unchanged:
The net moment about P is 0 .

T cos = T cos
8. (a) Simon is incorrect .

Combining the above two conditions, we have From the information given, we can only
conclude that the c.g. of the stick must be
tan > tan located along the dashed line between points X
and C . The c.g. of the stick may not necessarily
Hence, the value of would increase. be located at C .
10 | More about Force Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises

(b) The stick swings back and forth about point X 11. (a) dummy
until it comes to rest again.

9. dummy

In equilibrium, the net moment on the plank

about any point is zero. Taking moments about
trestle A , we have

In equilibrium, the net moment about the left end of

m K g (2.5) + m p g (2) = F B (3)
the platform is zero. Hence we have
(50)(9.81)(2.5) + (20)(9.81)(2) = 3F B
T2 (3) = mg (1) + M g (1.5) FB = 539.55 540 N
3T2 = (60 9.81)(1) + (100 9.81)(1.5)
In equilibrium, the net force on the plank is
T2 = 686.7 N
zero. Hence, we have
In equilibrium, the net force acting on the platform
F A + FB = mK g + mp g
is zero. Hence we have
F A + 539.55 = (50)(9.81) + (20)(9.81)
T1 + T2 = mg + M g F A = 147.15 147 N
T1 + 686.7 = (60)(9.81) + (100)(9.81)
T1 = 882.9 N So the forces F A and FB are 147 N and 540 N

respectively.
So the tensions in the left cable and the right cable (b) When she walks towards the right, F A
are 882.9 N and 686.7 N respectively. decreases. Suppose, after she walks for a
distance x , the plank topples as F A = 0.
10. Let W be the weight of Horace. In equilibrium, the
net moment on Horace about any point is zero.
Taking moments about balance A , we have

W x = (250)(2)
W x = 500 (1)

Taking moments about balance B , we have

W (2 x) = (550)(2)
W (2 x) = 1100 (2)

(2)
(1) , we have Taking moments about trestle B , we have

2 x 1100 m p g
(1) = m K g
(x 0.5)

=
x 500
20 = 50(x 0.5)
x= 0.625 m
x = 0.9 m
Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises More about Force | 11

She can walk for a distance of 0.9 m without .

toppling the plank.
2. The parcel accelerates while moving from A to B ,
C
12. (a) Let T be the tension in the rope. The c.g. and the only force acting on it is the friction exerted
of the plank is 1 m away from the hinge. In by the belt. Hence, the friction points to the right.
equilibrium, the net moment on the plank The parcel moves at a constant velocity from B to
about any point is zero. Taking moments about C , and so the net force acting on the parcel is zero.
the hinge, we have The belt does not exert any friction on the parcel,
because they move together without any sliding
(40 9.81)(1) = (T sin 45)(2)
motion between their surfaces.
T 277 N
3. B For the object to remain at rest, the three forces

The tension in the rope is 277 N . must balance each other.

(b) The angle between the rope and the plank is The resultant force of the two forces shown is 1 N to
the y -direction. Hence, the third force is 1 N to the
180 45
= = 67.5 +y -direction.
2
4. C Statement (1) is correct. The block moves at a
Taking moments about the hinge, we have
constant velocity, and so the net force acting on it is
(40 9.81 sin 45)(1) = (T sin 67.5)(2) zero.

T 150 N Statement (2) is correct. Lubricant decreases the

friction acting on the block. Therefore, the block will
The tension in the rope is 150 N . accelerate down the inclined plane.

13. (a) The force can produce the largest moment Statement (3) is incorrect. If the angle of inclination
when the force is applied in a direction increases, the block accelerates down the inclined
perpendicular to the handle. plane.

(b) In equilibrium, the net moment on the hammer 5. D

about any point is zero. Taking moments about

P , we have

F d Y P = 600d X P
( )
dY P
F = 600
dX P
F (15) = 600
F = 40 N

So the minimum pulling force is 40 N .

Chapter Exercise Since the block is at rest, the net force acting on the
block is zero.
Multiple-choice Questions (p.178) Forces on the block perpendicular to the force F :

1. A In Fig. Q1a, the force exerted on Q by P is the T = W cos 30 < W

only force acting to accelerate the less massive Q .
This force has the same magnitude as the force Forces on the block along the force F :
exerted on P by Q .
F = W sin 30
In Fig. Q1b, the force exerted on P by Q is the only
force acting to accelerate the more massive P . As cos 30 < sin 30, we get F < T .
Hence, this force is greater than that in Fig. Q1a.
12 | More about Force Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises

6. If X moves towards the right end of the plank,

C Subsequently, decreases and increases, and
the supporting force exerted by X must increase to both of them lead to the decrease of F , and so
produce the same clockwise moment about the right F < 0.94M g .
end in order to maintain the equilibrium.
11. C Consider the blocks and the spring balance as a
If the supporting force exerted by X increases, the single system.
supporting force exerted by Y must decrease, such
that the net force acting on the plank is zero.

7. A Since the dumbbell falls at a constant speed,

the net force acting on the dumbbell is zero. As the

dumbbell remains horizontal, the net torque on the
dumbbell is also zero. Therefore, the dumbbell is in By Fnet = ma , we get
equilibrium. F1 F2
F 1 F 2 = (3m)a a =
8. DThe net force acting on the block is zero because 3m

it is moving with a constant velocity. Consider P alone.

Considering the vertical forces, we have

R + F sin = W R < W

R is smaller than W .
By Fnet = ma , we get
9. Let be the required length. To balance the bar,
C

the net moment on the bar about any point must be F 1 T = ma

zero. Taking moments about the left hand end, we
have Solving for T , we have
( )
(3) = 
mg (10 ) +
mg (5 ) = 3 units
mg F1 F2 2F 1 + F 2
 T = F 1 
m =
3m 3

10. D Consider the forces acting on the gangplank. 2F 1 + F 2

The reading of the spring balance = .
3
12. D See the following steps.

Taking moments about P , we get

M g = F sin 1.5
Mg
F =
1.5 sin

Initially, = 1 m and = 45. Hence, we get

M g (1)
F= 0.94M g
1.5 sin 45
Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises More about Force | 13

13. A In equilibrium, all the forces acting on the second compartment. By Fnet = ma , we get
weight are balanced. Considering the vertical forces
acting on the weight, we have T2 f 2 = m 2 a
( ) ( )
T2 1.8 105 = 6 104 (1.167) (1M)

W = 30 sin + 20 sin
T2 = 2.5 105 N
< 30 + 20 sin ( sin < 1 for 0 < < 90)
< 30 + 20 ( sin < 1 for 0 < < 90) So the tensions in the irst and the sec-
ond chains are 5 105 N and 2.5 105 N
Hence, W < 50 N. respectively. (1A)

(c) If the chain connecting the irst and the

Structured Questions (p.180) second compartments is suddenly broken, the
mass of the system decreases, and hence the
14. (a) dummy acceleration of the system increases. (1A)

Considering the horizontal forces acting on the

locomotive, we have

F T1 f 1 = ma T1 = F f 1 ma

Therefore, the tension in the chain connecting

. the locomotive and the irst compartment will
Consider the locomotive and the compart- decrease. (1A)

ments as a single system.

15. Put ive weights on the weight rack of the rider.
The total mass of the locomotive and the Release the system. Record its acceleration a and
compartments is the net force Fnet acting on it (i.e. the weight of the
( ) ( ) weight holder). (1A)
M = 1.2 105 + 2 6 104 = 2.4 105 kg
Transfer one weight from the rider to the weight
Take the direction to the right as positive. By holder. Release the system again and record a and
F net = ma , we get F net (i.e. the new weight of the weight holder). (1A)

Repeat the above steps until all the weights are

F f1 2 f2 = M a transferred. (1A)
( ) ( ) ( )
10 3.6 10 2 1.8 105 = 2.4 105 a
6 5
(1M)
Plot a graph of Fnet against a . Newtons second
a = 1.167 law is veri ied if a straight line passing through the
1.17 m s2 origin is obtained. (1A)

In the experiment, the weights are transferred within the

The acceleration of the train is 1.17 m s2 to
system so as to keep the total mass m of the system unchanged.
the left. (1A)

16. (a) Take the direction of motion of the blocks as

(b) Let T1 and T2 be the tensions in the irst and
positive.
the second chains respectively.
Consider the blocks as a single system. By
Consider the horizontal forces acting on the
F net = ma , we have
locomotive. By Fnet = ma , we get

m B g + mC g f = (m A + m B + mC )a
F T1 f 1 = m 1 a
( ) ( ) (1)(9.81) + (1)(9.81) 4 = (1 + 1 + 1)a
10 T1 3.6 105 = 1.2 105 (1.167)
6 (1M)
(1M)
2
a = 5.207 5.21 m s
T1 = 5 105 N

The common acceleration of the blocks is

Consider the horizontal forces acting on the
5.21 m s2 . (1A)
14 | More about Force Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises

(b) Consider A alone. By Fnet = ma , we have Considering the horizontal forces acting on the
helicopter, we have
T AB f = m A a
T AB 4 = (1)(5.207) (1M)
L sin T sin 10 = M a

T AB 9.21 N
Rearranging the equation,

Consider C alone. By Fnet = ma , we have L sin = M a + T sin 10

( )
= (2500)(1.730) + 1.992 104 sin 10
mC g TBC = mC a
= 7784 N
(1)(9.81) TBC = (1)(5.207) (1M)

TBC 4.60 N Considering the vertical forces acting on the

helicopter, we have
Therefore, the tension in the string connecting
A and B is 9.21 N , and the tension in the L cos = M g + T cos 10
string connecting B and C is 4.60 N . (1A)
= (2500)(9.81) + 19 923 cos 10
17. (a) dummy = 4.415 104 N

Set up the equations: 1M

Magnitude of L :

( )2
L= 77842 + 4.415 104 4.483 104 N

Direction of L :
By Newtons second law, we have
7784
tan = 10.0
T cos 10 = mg 4.415 104
T cos 10 = (2000)(9.81) (1M) Combine the equations to ind the unknowns: 1M
T = 1.992 10 1.99 10 N
4 4
The lifting force has a magnitude of 44 800 N
and makes an angle of 10.0 with the vertical.
The tension in the cord is 1.99 104 N . (1A)
(1A)

(b) Considering the horizontal forces acting on the

18. (a) (i) dummy
bucket, we have

T sin 10 = ma
( )
1.992 104 sin 10 = 2000a (1M)

2
a = 1.730 1.73 m s

Since the bucket and the helicopter have the When the box is raised steadily, the
same acceleration, the acceleration of the magnitude of the pulling force balances
helicopter is 1.73 m s2 forwards. (1A)
the weight of the box, i.e. F = mg . (1M)

(c) dummy Since that the pulley remains stationary,

all the forces acting on the pulley must
be balanced. By symmetry, we know that
= 30 . (1A)

(ii) The tension in the string is

T = 2(100 cos 30) 173 N (1M+1A)

(b) No. (1A)

Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises More about Force | 15

If = , then the tension T and the pulling From the graph, when = 90, F = 700 N.
force F will be parallel to each other, like this: Hence,
700
W= = 700 N (1A)
sin 90

(b) (i) As the player has given two incorrect

answers, we have = 20.
. From the graph, when = 20, f > F .
Thus the frictional force acting by the track
The net force acting on the pulley is no longer
f = 240 N , and the net force acting on the
zero because no force can balance the weight
cart is 0 . (2A)
mg of the box. (1A)
(ii) By Newtons third law, the normal reaction
19. (a) The normal reaction acting on A is R acting on the cart by the track is equal
to the force acting on the track by the cart,
R A = mg cos which is W cos . (1M)

= (0.5)(9.81) cos 15 Therefore,

= 4.737 4.74 N
R = W cos
= 700 cos 20 (1M)

The friction acting on A is = 657.8 658 N

f A = mg sin The normal reaction R is 658 N . (1A)

= (0.5)(9.81) sin 15 (c) From the graph, if > 30, F will be greater
= 1.270 1.27 N than f . (1A)

Hence, the player can only give 3 incorrect

So the normal reaction and the friction answers before he slides into the pool. (1A)

acting on A by B are 4.74 N and 1.27 N

respectively. (2A)
21. (a) Let F A and FB be the supporting forces
provided by workers A and B respectively.
(b) (i) Consider the books as a single system. By
In equilibrium, the net moment on the pipe
F net = ma , we have
about any point is zero. Taking moments about
f = M g sin 45 the point where worker B supports the pipe,
we have
= (0.5 + 1)(9.81) sin 45 (1M)
( )
L
10.4 N mg = F A d AB
2
5
The limiting friction between book B and (80 9.81) = F A 4.2 (1M)
2
the inclined plane is 10.4 N . (1A)
F A = 467.1 467 N
(ii) Consider book A alone. By Fnet = ma , we
have In equilibrium, the net force acting on the pipe
is zero. Considering the vertical forces only, we
f = mg sin 60
have
= (0.5)(9.81) sin 60
4.25 N F A + F B = mg
467.1 + F B = (80)(9.81) (1M)

The limiting friction between the books is

FB 318 N
4.25 N . (1A)

20. (a) Since F is the component of W parallel to the The forces exerted on the pipe by A and B are
track, we get F = W sin . (1A) 467 N and 318 N respectively. (1A)
16 | More about Force Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises

(b) Worker A should hold the pipe farther from Taking moments about B , we have
worker B . (1A)

Consider the moment about the point where (mg cos )(1.5) = (R A sin )(3)

worker B supports the pipe. Worker A could

Rearranging the equation, we have
exert a smaller supporting force but still
produce the moment for the pipe remains in 1.5mg cos mg
R A = = (1M)
equilibrium. (1A) 3 sin 2 tan

22. (a) dummy If decreases, then tan decreases and hence

R A increases. Therefore, both the answers in
(b) and (c) will increase. (1A)

23. (a) In equilibrium, the net moment on his spine

about any point is zero. Taking moments about
point J , we have

(F sin 10) (0.25) = (W sin 60) (0.25)+(L sin 60) (0.4)

In equilibrium, the net force acting on the
board is zero. Considering the vertical forces
Rearranging the equation, we have
only, we have
(400 sin 60) (0.25) + (100 sin 60) (0.4)
F= (1M)
R B = W = 100 N (sin 10) (0.25)
2790 N (1A)

The normal reaction exerted by the ground on

the board is 100 N . (1A)
(b) In equilibrium, the net moment on his spine
(b) In equilibrium, the net moment on the board about any point is zero. Taking moments about
about any point is zero. Taking moments about point J , we have
B , we have
(F sin 10) (0.25) = (W sin 30) (0.25)+(L sin 30) (0.4)
(mg )(1.5) = (R 
45 
cos A sin 45)(3)
Rearranging the equation, we have
(100)(1.5) = (R A )(3) (1M)

R A = 50 N (400 sin 30) (0.25) + (100 sin 30) (0.4)

F= (1M)
(sin 10) (0.25)
The normal reaction exerted by the wall on the 1610 N (1A)

board is 50 N . (1A)
p
Note that cos 45 = sin 45 = 2 (c) Standing as close to the object as possible
2 .
while lifting reduces the angle between your
(c) In equilibrium, the net force acting on the
spine and the vertical. (1A)
board is zero. Considering the horizontal
Lifting with such posture requires less force
forces only, we have
and hence reduces the burden of the back
f = R A = 50 N muscle. (1A)

24. (a) For an object that does not rotate, we get

The friction between the board and the ground
sum of clockwise moments = sum of anticlock-
is 50 N . (1A)
wise moments. (1A)

(d) dummy
Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises More about Force | 17

(b) (i) dummy (c) Taking moments about P , we have

F A d AP = W dC P
F A 0.10 = 160 0.40 (1M)

FA = 640 N (1A)

(d) The minimum force becomes smaller. (1A)

Correct label: 1A The distance of A from the pivot (Q ) is longer

(ii) In equilibrium, the net moment on the than before. (1A)

forklift truck about any point is zero. (1A) By exerting a smaller force at A , the clockwise
Taking moment about P , we have moment it produced can still balance the
anticlockwise moment produced by the
mg d b = W d t weight. (2A)
( )
m(9.80)(2.6 0.4) = 2 104 (1.25) (1M)
26. (a) (i) The negative sign indicates that the force
25 000
m= (1M) acts upwards. (1A)
21.56
Under normal working conditions, the
1160 kg
scale measures the weight of the object
. to ind its mass. But since the scale reading
shows the tension in the string, we have
The mass of the block is 1160 kg . (1A)

(iii) Yes, it would be possible. (1A) T = mg

The distances of the centres of gravity of = (0.0094)(9.81) = 0.092 21 0.1 N (1A)

both the concrete block and the truck from

P are the same as in (a)(ii). Hence, the (ii) dummy
block can be raised to that point without
toppling the truck. (1A)

(iv) Any of the following: (1A)

Increase the mass of the truck.

Reduce the length of the forklift arm.
Move the centre of gravity of the truck
backward.
Tension in the string: 1A
25. (a) The point at which the weight of an object
Weight of the balloon: 1A
appears to act (2A)
Since the net force acting on the balance is
The c.g. of an object may lie outside its body.
zero, we have
(b) (i) In equilibrium, the net moment on the
W = F T
trolley about any point is zero. Taking
moments about Q , we have = 0.16 0.092 21 = 0.067 79 0.07 N (1A)

F P d PQ = W dCQ (b) (i) dummy

F P 0.90 = 160 0.50 (1M)

FP = 88.89 88.9 N (1A)

(ii) In equilibrium, the net force on the trolley

is zero. Considering the vertical forces
only, we have

FQ = W F P = 160 88.89 71.1 N (1A)

Weight of the balloon: 1A

Air resistance acting on the balloon: 1A
18 | More about Force Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises

(ii) T cos 43 (1A) (iii) Applying the equation of uniformly

(iii) Since the balloon is moving at a constant accelerated motion, we have
speed, the net force acting on it is zero.
s =*+0 1 at 2 s = 1 at 2 t 2 = 2 s

ut
Hence, we have 2 2 a

T cos 43 = 0.16 0.068 (1M) So the slope of the graph is a2 . (1M)

Solving for the acceleration a , we get

T 0.126 N
2
The tension in the string is 0.126 N . = 1.556 a = 1.286 1.29 m s1 (1A)
(1A)
a
(c) When the child walks faster, the air resistance
(b) dummy
exerted on the balloon increases. (1A)

Therefore, the horizontal component of the

tension has to increase in order to overcome
the increase in air resistance. (1A)

27. (a) (i) dummy

D /m t /s t 2 / s2

0.4 0.79 0.62 Correct arrows: 1A

0.8 1.12 1.25 Correct labels: 1A

1.2 1.37 1.88 (c) Take the direction down the slope as positive.
1.6 1.59 2.53 Considering the forces acting along the slope,
we have

Refer to the igure below. mg sin f = ma (1M)

Solving for f , we have

f = mg sin ma
= m(g sin a)
= (0.178)(10 sin 25 1.285)
= 0.524 N

Hence, the friction acting on the block is

0.524 N (up the slope). (1A)

28. (a) Without a ixed base, the model will topple in

the anticlockwise direction, (1A)

due to the net moment on the model about the

Correct axes and labels: 1A
base. (1A)
Correct scale: 1A
Correct data points: 1A (b) Considering the moments produced by the
Correct best- it line: 1A
weights of the counterweight and arm C D
about O , we have
(ii) The slope of the graph is
{
1.4 0
 moment = 4 10 0.2 = 8 N m
slope = (1A)
0.9 0 moment = 50 10 0.5 = 250 N m
= 1.556 1.56 m s1 (1A)

So the anticlockwise moment is much greater

than the clockwise moment. However, in
Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises More about Force | 19

equilibrium, the net moment about any point Shoot-the-stars Questions (p.185)
on the steel rod must be zero, and so wire
1 has to be taut in order to provide an extra 1. B The lifting force F balances the weight of

clockwise moment. (1A) the plate. (Note that the mass of the strings is
The normal reaction R acting on the arm is negligible.)
shown below.
2. (a) The mass of Q is

4
mQ = 10 (4)3 = 2681 g = 2.681 kg
3

Free body diagram of Q :

mg
we have F cos = mg F = cos . (1M)

Considering the following right-angled triangle,

Correct arrow: 1A
R balances the other forces acting on the arm.
(c) Taking moments about O , we have (1M)

p
11
 moment = (40 sin 29)(0.5) + (4 10)(0.2) we have sin = 10 5
12 = 6 cos = 6 . (1M)

= + (33 10)(0.9) Hence,

= 314.7 N m mg (2.681)(9.81)
F= = p 47.6 N
moment = (T sin 17)(0.9) + (50 10)(0.5) cos 11
6

= (0.2631T + 250) N m
The force exerted on Q by P is 47.6 N . (1A)

Since the rod is balanced, we have (b) If the length of the container decreases, the
value of decreases. (1A)

0.2631T + 250 = 314.7 (1M)

Therefore, the answer in (a) will decrease. (1A)

T 246 N
3. (a) (i) The c.g. of X must lie on top of Y . (1A)

The tension in wire 2 is 246 N . (1A)

(ii) The c.g. of the system of X and Y as a
whole must lie on top of the table. (1A)

(b) First consider brick X .

20 | More about Force Active Physics Full Solutions to Textbook Exercises

If the c.g. of X is not supported by Y , its weight of the table. (1M)

will produce a moment about P (the edge of Taking moments about Q , we have
Y ), but there is no force acting on X to balance
the moment. Hence, the farthest position a 2 = 
mg (12 a2 ) a2 =
mg 6 cm (1A)

which X can be placed is where its c.g. is just

above P . Therefore, (c) Consider brick Z .

24
a1 = = 12 cm (1A)
2

Then consider brick Y .

If the three bricks do not topple over the table,

the overall c.g. of X , Y and Z is located just
above Q .
Similarly, if the bricks do not topple over the
Taking moments about Q , we have
table, the farthest position is where the overall
c.g. of X and Y is located just above Q , the edge 2a 3 = 
mg (12 a3 ) a3 =
mg 4 cm (1A)