Side 1 of 13

UNIVERSITY OF
WATERLOO The 56th Sir Isaac Newton Physics Contest
Department of Physics & Astronomy
University of Waterloo
Waterloo, ON, N2L 3G1, Canada

Level and Discipline: Grade 12 Physics

In memory of Professor Rohan Jayasundera
nd
Date of Contest: May 2 , 2024 1954-2023
Award winning Professor of Physics
Duration of Contest: 2 Hours

General Instructions
1. This is a prize contest, not a university entrance exam. The results are only used to
decide SIN prize awards. It is meant to be both fun and challenging.
2. If you wish to be eligible for a prize, it is important to include legible Written Solutions
(see below).
3. Some numerical answers may be "rounded off" and may differ from yours. Choose the
closest answer.
4. Calculators are permitted.
5. You have two hours to write this contest. Good Luck!

SIN Checklist
If you intend to hand in your Written Solutions, you will need,
• At least 12 pages of blank paper. Start each question on a new page.
• Smartphone/camera – Hopefully your teacher can Photocopy Scan.
• Pencils/pens
• Calculator

Written Solutions – (Only needed if you wish to be eligible for a prize)

Download the sample coversheet and carefully follow the instructions.
Please hand in your written solutions to your teacher – 1st page is your coversheet.
If your score is high enough, your written solutions will be hand marked.

Resources
Examples of Significant Zeros Handy Triangles
Number 10 10.
# of Significant Digits 1 2
m Nm2
Use 𝑔 = 9.81 2
unless otherwise stated, 𝐺 = 6.67 × 10−11
s kg2
Marking Scheme
All questions are of equal value:
Correct Answer = +4, Unanswered = 0, Incorrect Answer = −1 (discourages guessing)
 Side 2 of 13

Q1. King Pong

m
King Pong hits a ping pong ball giving it a speed 𝑣 = 30. along the horizontal roof of a building of height ℎ1 = 31.25 m. After leaving
s
the rooftop, the ball falls until it reaches a height ℎ3 = 11.25 m, where it strikes the left-most end of the bottom of a box of length 𝐿 =
100. m and height ℎ2 = 15 m. It bounces an unknown number of times between the bottom and top of the box before it re-emerges at
the opposite end and falls to the ground. How much time elapses, in seconds, before the ball reaches the ground after it leaves the
m
rooftop? For simplicity, treat the ball as a point mass and use 𝑔 = 10. 2.
s

If it takes 1. 0 s to bounce from the B to C, then it will take the same time to bounce from C to D.
So, how many bounces can it make inside the box?
𝐿 100
∆𝑡𝐼𝑛 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝐵𝑜𝑥 = 𝑣 = = 3.33 s
𝐻𝑜𝑟𝑖𝑧𝑜𝑛𝑡𝑎𝑙 30
So, after its first bounce, at its left-most end, it will make 3 more bounces in the box, making the last
bounce at the top of the box. Therefore, it will bounce B, C, D and E in the box and land at G. (at F it
is out but at box bottom)
∆𝑡𝑇𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 = ∆𝑡𝐴𝐵 + ∆𝑡𝐵𝐶 + ∆𝑡𝐶𝐷 + ∆𝑡𝐷𝐸 + ∆𝑡𝐸𝐹 + ∆𝑡𝐹𝐺
∆𝑡𝑇𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 = 2.0 + 1.0 + 1.0+ 1.0+1. 0 + 0.5
∆𝑡𝑇𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 = 6.5 s
Another way
y-direction → ℎ = 20 m that ball falls.
m
The speed when it reaches the box bottom is 𝑣𝑓 2 = 𝑣𝑖 2 + 2𝑔ℎ = 0 + 2(10)(20) giving 𝑣𝑓 = 20 s .
𝑣 −𝑣 20−0
The time to reach box bottom is 𝑡 = 𝑓𝑎 𝑖 = 10 = 2.0 s
Inside of box, ℎ′ = 15 m and
m
The speed of ball on top of box is 𝑣𝑇𝑜𝑝 2 = 𝑣𝐵𝑜𝑡 2 − 2𝑔ℎ′ = 202 − 2(10)(15) = 100 and 𝑣𝑇𝑜𝑝 = 10 s
𝑣𝑓 −𝑣𝑖 20−10 1
The time for first bounce is 𝑡 = = = 1.0 s. Time to return to box floor is 𝑑 = 𝑣𝑖 𝑡 + 2 𝑎𝑡 2 or
𝑎 10
1 −2±ඥ22 −4(1)(−3) −2±ξ4+12
15 = 10𝑡 + 2 (10)𝑡 2 → 𝑡 2 + 2𝑡 − 3 = 0 → 𝑡 = = = −1 ± 2 → 𝑡 = 1.0 s
2(1) 2
Each bounce takes 1.0 s.
m 100
x-direction → Because ball moves horizontally at a constant 𝑣 = 30. s , ball spends 30 = 3.33 s in box
corresponding to 3 traverses before emerging to then fall to ground.
1
y-direction → The final ball path is from top of box to floor yielding 𝑑 = ℎ = 𝑣𝑖 𝑡 + 2 𝑔𝑡 2
1 −2±ඥ22 −4(1)(−5.25) −2±5 3
(15 + 11.25) = 10𝑡 + (10)𝑡 2 → 𝑡 2 + 2𝑡 − 5.25 = 0 giving 𝑡 = = →𝑡=2 s
2 2(1) 2
Overall time is 2 + 3 + 1.5 = 6.5 s.
 Side 3 of 13

Q2. Lord of the Precious Ring

The top of a circular wire, with diameter 1.0 m, is firmly connected to a vertical steel rod. The wire passes through the hole in the center
of a precious red ring, initially situated almost at the lowest point (point 𝐴). As the rod spins up slowly about its vertical axis, the ring
moves slowly upward along the wire, toward point 𝐵, as shown. Find the maximum angular speed, in rotations per second, at which the
ring remains in the position where the angle 𝜙 = 45o. Assume the coefficient of friction between the ring and the wire is 0.4.
An expanded and well labelled diagram is the key to
success for any challenging problem (but it’s good practice
even for simple problems). Also notice how useful the
dotted lines are (we drew most of them for you, but we
wouldn’t have had to) – it takes some experience to get
good at this (again, practice on easier questions makes the
difficult ones easier).

Since forces are involved, use Newton’s 2nd Law but separate
them into the 𝑥 and 𝑦 directions.
Remember: When an object is in circular motion, then the
sum of the forces on it, in the plane of the circle, must be the
centripetal force!
If possible, clarify your 𝒙 − 𝒅𝒊𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒌 𝒚 − 𝒅𝒊𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒌
work with Asides and/or ∑ 𝐹𝑥 = 𝐹𝐶 = 𝑚𝑎𝐶 ∑ 𝐹𝑦 = 𝑚𝑎𝑦 = 0
𝑣2 𝑁 cos 𝜙 − 𝐹𝑓 sin 𝜙 − 𝐹𝑔 = 0
Givens 𝑁 sin 𝜙 + 𝐹𝑓 cos 𝜙 = 𝑚 𝑅 sin 𝜙
𝑣2
𝑁 cos 𝜙 − 𝜇𝑆 𝑁 sin 𝜙 − 𝐹𝑔 = 0
Givens: 𝑁 sin 𝜙 + 𝜇𝑆 𝑁 cos 𝜙 = 𝑚 𝑅 sin 𝜙
1 𝑁(cos 𝜙 − 𝜇𝑆 sin 𝜙) − 𝑚𝑔 = 0
𝑅=2 𝑣2
2 𝑁(𝑠𝑖𝑛 𝜙 + 𝜇𝑆 𝑐𝑜𝑠 𝜙) = 𝑚 𝑅 sin 𝜙
𝜇𝑆 = 0.4 = 5 𝑁 = ቂ(cos 𝜙−𝜇
𝑚𝑔
ቃ
𝑆 sin 𝜙)
𝜙 = 45°
𝑚𝑔 (2𝜋(𝑅 sin 𝜙)𝑓)2
Aside 1: ቂ(cos ቃ (sin 𝜙 + 𝜇𝑆 cos 𝜙) = 𝑚
ξ2 ξ2 𝜙−𝜇𝑆 sin 𝜙) 𝑅 sin 𝜙
sin 45° = 2 cos 45° = 2 𝑔(sin 𝜙+𝜇𝑆 cos 𝜙)
= 4𝜋 2 𝑅 sin 𝜙 𝑓 2
So/Or, here* sin 𝜙 = cos 𝜙 (cos 𝜙−𝜇𝑆 sin 𝜙)
Aside 2: ξ2
𝑔 (1+𝜇𝑆 ) 𝑔(1+𝜇 )
𝑑 𝐶𝑖𝑟𝑐𝑢𝑚𝑓𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒 or here* ξ22 = (1−𝜇 𝑆) = 4𝜋 2 𝑅 sin 𝜙 𝑓 2
𝑣= = (1−𝜇𝑆 ) 𝑆
𝑡 𝑃𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑜𝑑 2
2𝜋(𝑅 sin 𝜙) 2
𝑣= (1+𝜇𝑆 ) 𝑔 ቀ1+ ቁ 𝑔 7
𝑇 𝑓 = ට(1−𝜇 ) 2 = ඨ 52 = ට 𝑔
𝑣 = 2𝜋(𝑅 sin 𝜙)𝑓 𝑆 4𝜋 𝑅 sin 𝜙 ቀ1−5ቁ 4𝜋2 1 ξ2 3ξ2𝜋2
2 2

7 Rotations
𝑓=ට 10. = 1.2929 = 1.3 = 1.3 Hz
3ξ2𝜋2 s
 Side 4 of 13

Q3. Shark Friendsy

A 75 kg high-thrill adventurer leaps from a plane and parachutes to Earth. Unfortunately, the wind conditions force him to land at point 𝐏
on a massless rope suspended across an ocean inlet. Terrifyingly, the ocean inlet contains two ravenously hangry (hangry = hungry + angry)
megalodon friends. What is the minimum breaking strength required in the rope to support the adventurer until they are rescued, and to
prevent them from making an easy meal for the megalodons? The slopes of the rope on either side of the adventurer, relative to the
horizontal are 𝜃 = 35° and 𝜙 = 20. °, as shown. (Answer in N)
Use your FBD (left diagram) to help you to mindfully label
each component of each force (diagram below).

Instantaneous thoughts of a Physicist

Thought 1:
This is a static situation. In other words, there is no acceleration. This means that the net force
on the adventurer must be zero. So, we use Newton’s 2nd Law in the 𝑥 and 𝑦 directions.
The 𝑥 − 𝑑𝑖𝑟𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 forces to the right must balance the 𝑥 − 𝑑𝑖𝑟𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 forces to the left.
And the 𝑦 − 𝑑𝑖𝑟𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 forces up must equal the 𝑦 − 𝑑𝑖𝑟𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 forces down.
Describing this mathematically is easy if we use our completely labelled Free-Body Diagram.
Thought 2:
The cable that has the greatest tension is the one with the greatest angle from the horizontal.
(to prove it to yourself, consider the tension, 𝑇1 if 𝜃 = 90°. Then 𝑇1 = 𝑀𝑔 and 𝑇2 = 0).
Therefore, 𝑇1 must be able to support the minimum breaking stregth.
𝒙 − 𝒅𝒊𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒌 𝒚 − 𝒅𝒊𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒌
𝑇1 sin 𝜃 + 𝑇2 sin 𝜙 = 𝑀𝑔  𝑇1 cos 𝜃 = 𝑇2 cos 𝜙 
Solve  for 𝑇2 cos 𝜃
𝑇2 = 𝑇1 
cos 𝜙
Sub  into  cos 𝜃
𝑇1 sin 𝜃 + 𝑇1 cos 𝜙 sin 𝜙 = 𝑀𝑔 
Solve  for 𝑇1 cos 𝜃
൬sin 𝜃 + sin 𝜙൰ 𝑇1 = 𝑀𝑔
cos 𝜙
𝑀𝑔 𝑀𝑔
𝑇1 = cos 𝜃 = sin 𝜃+cos 𝜃 tan 𝜙
ቀsin 𝜃+ sin 𝜙ቁ
cos 𝜙
(75)(10.) 750
𝑇1 = sin 35+cos 35 tan 20 = 0.8717
𝑇1 = 860.36
𝑇1 = 860 N
 Side 5 of 13

Q4. Eur-a-peein’ Kvass

An abandoned Polish space station, a rigid cylindrical tube of length 𝐿 and mass 𝑀, is stationary in outer space. Its last functioning
instrument is a kvass dispenser, which upon losing power emits a single photon from its control panel. The photon of energy 𝐸 is emitted
at one end and then absorbed at the other end bringing the tube to rest again. Derive the center of mass quadratic equation for the
mass, 𝑚, associated with the photon during its flight across the space station by using simple conservation laws. Recall: according to
ℎ 𝐸
Maxwell, a photon’s momentum is given by 𝑝 = = . Use the center of mass equation, 𝑀𝑥 = 𝑚𝐿 where 𝑥 is the recoil distance of the
𝜆 𝑐
tube.

If 𝑚 is the inertia to be associated with the photon, then the mass of the recoiling tube is
(𝑀 − 𝑚). Let the distance that the Tube recoils be 𝑥.
𝐸
Since the momentum of the photon is 𝑝 = 𝑐 , then Conservation of 𝑷 requires that
𝐸
𝐸 𝑐
(𝑀 − 𝑚)𝑣 = or 𝑣 = (1)
𝑐 (𝑀−𝑚)
(𝐿−𝑥)
The time of flight of the photon is 𝑡 = 𝑐
𝑥
This must be the same as the time for the ‘rigid’ tube’s recoil 𝑡 = 𝑣
(𝐿−𝑥) 𝑥 𝑥𝑐
Therefore =𝑣 or 𝑣 = (𝐿−𝑥) (2)
𝑐
Combining (1) and (2) gives
𝐸
𝑐 𝑥𝑐 𝐸
= (𝐿−𝑥) or (𝐿 − 𝑥) = 𝑥(𝑀 − 𝑚)
(𝑀−𝑚) 𝑐2
𝐸𝐿
ቀ 2ቁ 𝑬
𝑐
Solving for 𝑥 we get 𝑥 = 𝐸 = (𝑴𝒄𝟐 −𝒎𝒄𝟐 +𝑬) 𝑳
ቀ𝑀−𝑚+ 2 ቁ
𝑐
Like the movement in a floating boat, the center of the tube/photon mass won’t change.
𝑀𝑥
So, the Center of Mass Equation gives 𝑀𝑥 = 𝑚𝐿 or 𝑚 = (3)
𝐿
𝐸𝐿 𝐸
𝑀 ቀ 2ቁ 𝑀 2
𝑐 𝑐
By using the Center of Mass Equation (3) we get 𝑚 = or 𝑚 =
𝐿 ቀ𝑀−𝑚+ 𝐸2 ቁ 𝐸
ቀ𝑀−𝑚+ 2 ቁ
𝑐 𝑐
𝐸 𝐸
Creating a quadratic equation in 𝑚 we get 𝑚2 − ቀ𝑀 + ቁ 𝑚 + 𝑀 𝑐2 = 0
𝑐2

Double-Checking, using the quadratic formula, gives us

𝐸 𝐸 𝐸 𝐸 𝐸 𝐸2
ቀ𝑀+ 2 ቁ ± ටቀ𝑀+ 2 ቁ 2 −4(1)ቀ𝑀 2 ቁ 𝑀+ 2 ± ට𝑀2 − 2𝑀 2 + 4
𝑐 𝑐 𝑐 𝑐 𝑐 𝑐
∴𝑚= =
2(1) 2
𝐸 𝐸 2 𝐸 𝐸
𝑀+ 2 ± ටቀ𝑀− 2 ቁ 𝑀+ 2 ± ቀ𝑀− 2 ቁ
𝑐 𝑐 𝑐 𝑐
𝑚= =
2 2
𝐸 𝐸 𝐸 𝐸
𝑀+ 2 + ቀ𝑀− 2 ቁ 𝑀+ 2 − ቀ𝑀− 2 ቁ
𝑐 𝑐 𝑐 𝑐
𝑚= or 𝑚 =
2 2
𝐸
𝑚 = 𝑀 (reject) or 𝑚 = 𝑐 2 
 Side 6 of 13

Q5. Relative’s Velocity

Two sibling motorcyclists, Speedy and Breezy, are cruising eastward, maintaining a distance of 4.00 m between their paths. At a particular
km km
instant, Speedy is 20.0 m behind and racing at 120. , while Breezy is breezing along at 84.0 . In a daring move to inject some thrill
h h
into the ride, Speedy hurls a small water balloon directly due North. The water balloon's speed is precisely calibrated to make a splash
on Breezy's head without causing any disruption to his speed or balance. Determine the speed of the water balloon relative to Earth, in
m
, ignoring the air resistance, friction and gravitational forces.
s
 Side 7 of 13

Q6. Ballerina Arena

A very capable Ballerina, holding a 2.0 m diameter green hula hoop with her outstretched arms, twirls (or spins) in a clockwise direction
inside of a circular arena that is 14.0 m across. She twirls continuously and simultaneously circulates around the arena making sure to
keep the hula hoop in contact with the wall and never letting it skid along the wall. How many rotations will she complete as she twirls
once around the arena?

Solution:
The Ballerina’s path has a radius of 𝑅 = 6.0 m.
Hence the distance she covers is, 2𝜋𝑅 = 2𝜋(6) = 12𝜋 m.
And one twirl requires a path length of 2𝜋𝑟 = 2𝜋(1) = 2𝜋 m.
2𝜋𝑅 𝑅 6
Consequently the # of twirls are 2𝜋r = 𝑟 = 1 or 𝟔 complete rotations.
 Side 8 of 13

Q7. Freedom Flighters

Freeda M’s convoy truck was somehow parked on top (!) of the 40. m high Lord Elgin Hotel. Freeda, mass 110 kg, was accompanied by
her young child, mass 20 kg. After some careful deliberation, Freeda decided that this was not the place for her child, so they both
stepped onto a platform suspended by a spring. The platform descended exactly to ground level before it came momentarily to rest, at
which point Freeda gave her child to a friend in the hot tub before the platform (with Freeda on it) went back up. How high above the
top of the hotel will the mother trucker rise? (Answer in m)

Another way to solve it

1. Drop to ground level – Gravitational Potential Energy is converted to Elastic Potential Energy
∆𝐸𝜀𝑙𝑎𝑠𝑡𝑖𝑐 = −∆𝑈𝑔
1 1
𝑘(∆𝑥)2 = −((𝑚 + 𝑀)𝑔∆𝐻) where ∆𝐻 = 0 − 𝐻 = −𝐻 so you could say 𝑘(𝐻)2 = (𝑚 + 𝑀)𝑔𝐻
2 2
2(𝑚+𝑀)𝑔
Therefore, 𝑘 = 𝐻
2. Freida’s rise back to top of building – Elastic Potential Energy is converted back into Gravitational Potential
Energy and Kinetic Energy
1 1 1 2(𝑚+𝑀)𝑔 1
𝑘𝐻 2 = 𝑀𝑔𝐻 + 2 𝑀𝑣 2 → 2 ቀ ቁ 𝐻 2 = 𝑀𝑔𝐻 + 2 𝑀𝑣 2
2 𝐻
1 1
(𝑚 + 𝑀)𝑔𝐻 = 𝑀𝑔𝐻 + 𝑀𝑣 2 → 𝑚𝑔𝐻 = 𝑀𝑣 2
2 2
𝑚
Therefore, 𝑣 2 = 2𝑔𝐻 𝑀 where 𝑣 is initial speed at building top
3. Freida’s height above building – Kinetic Energy is converted into Gravitational Potential Energy above the
building where Freida’s speed is zero
𝑣′2 = 𝑣 2 + 2𝑎𝑑 where 𝑑 = ℎ, Freida’s height above the building top
𝑚
0 = 2𝑔𝐻 + 2(−𝑔)ℎ
𝑀
𝑚
ℎ=𝐻 𝐖𝐨𝐰! 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐚 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐮𝐥𝐭 − 𝐈𝐭 𝐝𝐨𝐞𝐬𝐧′ 𝐭 𝐝𝐞𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐞𝐭!
𝑀
20. 20. 80.
ℎ = 40. × = 40.× = = 6.154 = 6.2
(110 + 20. ) 130 13
 Side 9 of 13

Q8. Kirchhoff’s Laws – ElectriciTree

A large maple tree forms a root structure, which begins from its trunk (at ℓ = 0), and continues with two roots branching off at regular
intervals downward through each level ℓ. The roots begin below the trunk at ℓ = 1 and terminate at ℓ = 6 along every root path.
Suddenly, lightning strikes the trunk, subjecting it to a voltage. Assuming that the end of each root is grounded, estimate the resistance
along one of the root paths from ℓ = 0 to ℓ =6. Assume each root of the network can be modelled by a resistor of 𝑅 = 1.00 Ohms.
(Answer in Ohms)

The key to solving this question is to,

1. Understand equipotential.
2. Be able to redraw an equivalent
circuit.
Equipotential simply means “places” that
are at the same (equal) Potential (or
Voltage).
The equivalent circuit (Figure 1) has
Potentials (or Voltages) that have been
colour coded. For example, everything
connected to node 𝓵 = 𝟐 is experiencing
the same voltage, 𝑽𝟐 .
Looking at Figure 2, we have connected all
the places that are experiencing equal
voltages, 𝑉2, together with a purple
conductor. Similarly, we connect all equal
voltage “places” together with 𝑉1, 𝑉3, 𝑉4, 𝑉5,
𝑉6 and in so doing have created an
equivalent circuit to Figure 1. Now, it is
easier to see that all the resistors in ℓ = 2
are in parallel with each other just as all of
the resistors in ℓ = 3 are in parallel with
each other and so on.
Which means that we could redraw the circuit
one more time to get Figure 3.
At ℓ = 1 we have two equal resistors in parallel.
1 1 1 2 𝑅
So, 𝑅 = 𝑅 + 𝑅 = 𝑅 → 𝑅1𝑇𝑜𝑡 = 2
1𝑇𝑜𝑡
𝑅 𝑅
Similarly, 𝑅2𝑇𝑜𝑡 = 4 or in general 𝑅𝑛𝑇𝑜𝑡 = 2𝑛
𝑅 𝑅 𝑅 𝑅 𝑅
Anyway, now we get 𝑅𝑇𝑜𝑡 = 𝑅 + 2 + 4 + 8 + 16 + 32
32 + 16 + 8 + 4 + 2 + 1 63
𝑅𝑇𝑜𝑡 = 𝑅= 𝑅 = 1.97𝑅
32 32
 Side 10 of 13

Q9. R&D’s Fishy Optics

Donna is positioned on top of a glass fish tank that has a mirrored bottom and is filled with water to depth 𝐻. Rohan tells Donna that
1
their fish is at a depth of 𝐻. Then Donna tests Rohan by asking him for the depth of its image from the water’s surface. Rohan, knowing
2
4
the index of refraction of water and air to be and 1 respectively, wisely assumes that the light paths are nearly vertical. What should
3
Rohan’s correct answer be?

The key to solving this problem is to

spend time creating a detailed ray
diagram.

It is easy to determine, by observation, that the location,

3
𝐷, of the Optical Image in the water is 𝐷 = 2 𝐻.
However, the observer perceives a different location, 𝐷′,
which can be calculated using Snell’s Law.

But first, what can we conclude if the light paths are

nearly vertical?
a) The light rays are nearly parallel, so
sin 𝜃 ~ tan 𝜃 ~ 𝜃
b) The observer isn’t looking straight down, so the
image won’t be eclipsed by the object itself.

Note: The diagram is exaggerated in the horizontal

direction.

From Snell we get,

𝑛 sin 𝜃 = 𝑛′ sin 𝜃′

For small angles we get,

𝑛 tan 𝜃 = 𝑛′ tan 𝜃′
4 4𝑑 𝑑
tan 𝜃 = 1 tan 𝜃′ → 3 𝐷 = 𝐷′
3

3
So 𝐷′ = 𝐷
4
3 3 9
𝐷′ = × 𝐻= 𝐻
4 2 8
 Side 11 of 13

Q10. Elon’s Rocket Man w one solution

While Elon and Elton were planning a future Mars mission, an appropriately planned gravitational slingshot maneuver past Venus will
assist in speeding up the rocket, Hermes, heading to Mars. After this maneuver, what will happen to the planet Venus’ speed? Estimate
in a simple linear fashion the speed change of Venus. Note: the slingshot maneuver is a perfectly elastic interaction.
m
The mass and speed, 𝑣𝑖 , of the Hermes near Venus are respectively estimated at 3.0×106 kg and 8.0×104 ; the mass and orbital velocity, 𝑉𝑖 , of
s
m fm
Venus are respectively 4.87×1024 kg and 3.5×104 . Answer in Femtometers/s ቀ ቁ where 1 fm = 10−15 m
s s

One Solution
The speed of rocket, Hermes, is 𝑉R while the average orbital velocity of Venus is 𝑉V. Consequently,
following the fly-by sling shot maneuver, Hermes will have a speed of 𝑉′R = 𝑉R + 2𝑉V
Note for those unfamiliar, Relative to Venus, Hermes approaches at 𝑉R + 𝑉V but will also need to
recede at the same speed relative to Venus. BUT Venus is still moving at 𝑉V . Hence 𝑉′R = 𝑉R +
2𝑉V just like a small ball bouncing off a very large ball (or wall) as you will learn in Phys 121.
You can also conclude the same by considering the conservation of KE and 𝑃⃑.
The difference in the Rocket’s 𝐾𝐸 before and after the Venus fly-by is
• ∆𝐾𝐸R = 𝐾𝐸′R − 𝐾𝐸R
1 2 1
• ∆𝐾𝐸R = 2 𝑚𝑅 𝑉′R − 2 𝑚R 𝑉R 2
1 m m 1 2m 2
• ∆𝐾𝐸𝑅 = 2 (3.0 × 106 kg) ቀ8.0 × 104 s + 2 × 3.5 × 104 s ቁ − 2 (3.0 × 106 kg) ቀ8.0 × 104 s ቁ
• ∆𝐾𝐸𝑅 = 3.375 × 1016 − 9.6 × 1015 = 3.375 × 1016 − 0.96 × 1016
• ∆𝐾𝐸𝑅 = 2.415 × 1016 J
This gain in kinetic energy by the rocket must be Venus’s loss in KE.
So, ∆𝐾𝐸V = −∆𝐾𝐸R = 𝐾𝐸′V − 𝐾𝐸V
1 1
• −∆𝐾𝐸R = 2 𝑀(𝑉 ′ V )2 − 2 𝑀(𝑉V )2 → +2∆𝐾𝐸R = 𝑀(𝑉V )2 − 𝑀(𝑉 ′ V )2
Note: Below we assume 𝑉V + 𝑉 ′ V ≈ 2𝑉V
2∆𝐾𝐸R
• = (𝑉V )2 − (𝑉 ′ V )2 = (𝑉V − 𝑉 ′ V )(𝑉V + 𝑉 ′ V ) ≈ (𝑉V − 𝑉 ′ V )(2𝑉V )
𝑀
2∆𝐾𝐸R ∆𝐾𝐸R 2.415×1016
• (𝑉V − 𝑉 ′ V ) = = = 4.87×1024 (3.5×104)
𝑀(2𝑉V ) 𝑀𝑉V
m 𝐟𝐦
• ′
(𝑉V − 𝑉 V ) = 1.417 × 10−13 s = 𝟏𝟒𝟐 𝐬
 Side 12 of 13

Q10. Elon’s Rocket Man w another solution

While Elon and Elton were planning a future Mars mission, an appropriately planned gravitational slingshot maneuver past Venus will
assist in speeding up the rocket, Hermes, heading to Mars. After this maneuver, what will happen to the planet Venus’ speed? Estimate
in a simple linear fashion the speed change of Venus. Note: the slingshot maneuver is a perfectly elastic interaction.
m
The mass and speed, 𝑣𝑖 , of the Hermes near Venus are respectively estimated at 3.0×106 kg and 8.0×104 ; the mass and orbital velocity, 𝑉𝑖 , of
s
m fm
Venus are respectively 4.87×1024 kg and 3.5×104 . Answer in Femtometers/s ቀ ቁ where 1 fm = 10−15 m
s s

Another Solution
 Side 13 of 13

Q11. Domino Effect

A platform 26 m long with mass 16 kg balances atop a pillar with width 2.0 m as shown. Four thin dominoes with height 0.80 m and mass
0.20 kg are placed 80. cm apart on the platform, along with a ball with diameter 0.80 m and mass 2.0 kg, placed with its contact point
1.0 m to the left of the leftmost domino, in such a way that the whole setup is as far to the right as possible so that the platform does not
tip. Someone sets the dominoes in motion so that each falls to the left, just touching the next domino and coming to rest without sliding,
which sets the ball in motion to the left. Ignoring the temporary effect of the vertical force of the falling dominoes, and any rotational effects
of the ball, how far from the leftmost edge will the centre of the ball be when the platform begins to tip? (Answer in cm)

Below is a completely labelled diagram using logical variable gleaned from the question. The values
4 1
given are: 𝐿 = 26, 𝑀 = 16, 𝑊 = 2.0, ℎ = 0.8 = 5 , 𝑚 = 0.2 = 5 , 𝑚𝑏 = 2.0, 𝑐 = 1.0

Positioning of Dominos & Ball – Finding 𝑑0 using 1st Pivot Point

1 1 1 3 1 1
ቀ2 𝑊ቁ 𝑀 = ቀ2 𝐿 − 2 𝑊 − 𝑑0 − 2 ℎቁ (4𝑚) + ቀ2 𝐿 − 2 𝑊 − 𝑑0 − 3ℎ − 𝑐ቁ 𝑚𝑏 
(𝐿−𝑊−3h)(4𝑚)+(𝐿−𝑊−6h−2𝑐)𝑚𝑏 −𝑊𝑀
𝑑0 =
2(4𝑚+𝑚𝑏 )
4 1 4
ቀ26−2−3× ቁቀ4× ቁ+ቀ26−2−6× −2×1.0ቁ×2−2×16 123
5 5 5
𝑑0 = 1 = = 3.5143
2ቀ4× +2ቁ 35
5
After Dominos Fall – Finding 𝑑 using 2nd Pivot Point
1 1 1 1 1 4ℎ
ቀ2 𝐿 − 2 𝑊 − 𝑑ቁ 𝑚𝑏 = ቀ2 𝑊ቁ 𝑀 + ቀ2 𝑊 + 2 𝐿 − 𝑑0 − 2 ቁ (4𝑚)
(𝐿 − 𝑊 − 2𝑑)𝑚𝑏 = 𝑊𝑀 + (𝑊 + 𝐿 − 2𝑑0 − 4h)(4𝑚)
(𝐿 − 𝑊)𝑚𝑏 − 2𝑑𝑚𝑏 = 𝑊𝑀 + (𝑊 + 𝐿 − 2𝑑0 − 4h)(4𝑚)
123 4 1
(𝐿−𝑊)𝑚𝑏 −𝑊𝑀−(𝑊+𝐿−2𝑑0 −4h)(4𝑚) (26−2)×2−2×16−ቀ2+26−2× −4× ቁቀ4× ቁ
35 5 5
𝑑= →𝑑 =
2𝑚𝑏 2×2
78
𝑑 = 175 = 0.4457 m = 45 cm

Sometimes, however, solutions can be simplified by redefining variables that you’d rather use, like in
the diagram, below. It is also important to choose a reference point (the origin).
4 1
𝐿 = 26, 𝑀 = 16, 𝑊 = 2.0, 𝑟 = 1.0, ℎ = 0.8 = 5 , 𝑚 = 0.2 = 5 , ℓ = 12, 𝑚𝑏 = 2.0, 𝑐 = 1.0

3
𝑟𝑀 = ቀℓ − 𝑑0 − 2 ℎቁ (4𝑚) + (ℓ − 𝑑0 − 3ℎ − 𝑐)𝑚𝑏 ← Notice how much simpler this is than  above!
 Side 14 of 13

Q12. Untied States

An excited electron of a gaseous hydrogen atom, in the n = n* state, reduces its energy by emitting a photon having the shortest possible
wavelength of l1 = 93.06 nm. The electron is then excited to the n = n* + 3 state, and again, reduces its energy by emitting a second
photon having the longest possible wavelength l2. Determine the wavelength, l2, of the second emitted photon. (Answer in 𝜇m; use all
significant figures given for constants.)
Useful Constants and Formulas
Description Related constants and formulas
Rydberg constant for hydrogen, 𝑹𝑯 𝑅𝐻 = 2.179 × 10−18 J
Planck’s Constant, 𝐡 h = 6.626 × 10−34 Js
Wave equation for a photon of speed, 𝒄, frequency, 𝝂, and 𝑐 = 𝜈𝜆
m
wavelength, 𝝀 where 𝑐 = 2.9979 × 108 s
𝑅𝐻
Energy, 𝑬𝒏 , of electron in each energy level, 𝒏 𝐸𝑛 = − 2
𝑛
Change in energy, ∆𝑬, between 𝟐 energy levels ∆𝐸 = 𝐸𝑃h𝑜𝑡𝑜𝑛 = h𝜈

Another Solution

The shortest 𝜆 or largest 𝐸 is an emission to ground state so that,

𝑅 𝑅 1 ℎ𝑐 1 ℎ𝑐 ℎ𝑐 1 𝑅𝜆−ℎ𝑐 1
∆𝐸 = 𝐸𝑛∗ − 𝐸1 = − 𝑛∗2 − ቀ− 1 ቁ = 𝑅 ቀ1 − 𝑛∗2 ቁ = or ቀ1 − 𝑛∗2ቁ = 𝑅𝜆 → 1 − 𝑅𝜆 = 𝑛∗2 → = 𝑛∗ 2
𝜆 𝑅𝜆
𝑅𝜆 2.179×10−18 ×93.06×10−9 202.7777×10−27
So, 𝑛∗ = ට𝑅𝜆−ℎ𝑐 = ට2.179×10−18 ×93.06×10−9−6.626×10−34 ×2.9979×108 = ට202.7777×10−27 −19.864×10−26 = 7.00

Next the electron is excited to 𝑛∗ + 3 or the 10th state and then deexcited to 𝑛 = 9.
𝑐 𝑅 𝑅 𝑐 1 1
So, ∆𝐸 = 𝐸9 − 𝐸10 = ℎ𝜐 = ℎ 𝜆′ → − 102 − ቀ− 92 ቁ = ℎ 𝜆′ → 𝑅 ቀ92 − 102 ቁ 𝜆′ = ℎ𝑐
′
ℎ𝑐 6.626 × 10−34 × 2.9979 × 108
∴𝜆 = = = 3.8864 × 10−5 m = 38.9μm
1 1 −18 1 1
𝑅 ቀ81 − 100ቁ 2.179 × 10 ቀ81 − 100ቁ