SECONDARY SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT

PROGRAMME (SSIP) 2019

GRADE 12

SUBJECT: TECHNIICAL SCIENCE

LEARNER GUIDE

1
SESSION TOPIC PAGE

1 Newton’s laws and Newton’s laws application 4 – 13

2 Momentum and Impulses 14 – 23
3 Consolidation Newton’s law & Momentum and Impulses 24 – 29
4 Work, Energy and Power 30 - 37
5 Elasticity and Viscosity 38 - 46
6 Hydraulics. 47 - 57

2
SESSION NO: 1

 TOPIC: NEWTON'S LAWS AND APPLICATION OF NEWTON'S LAWS

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

The following concepts are very important. You must be able to define each of the
following:

 Weight
 Normal Force
 Frictional Force
 Static Frictional Force
 Kinetic Frictional Force
 Tension

It is also important to distinguish between mass and weight

NEWTON’S First Law

 Define inertia
 Define mass
 State Newton’s first law
 Give examples to illustrate Newton’s first law

NEWTON’S SECOND LAW

Definitions and law

 State Newton's second law

Diagrams

Force diagrams, free-body diagrams

 Define a force diagram.
 Define a free-body diagram.
 Draw force diagrams.
 Draw free-body diagrams.
 Draw force diagrams and free-body diagrams for objects that are in
equilibrium or accelerating.
 Determine the resultant or net force of two or more forces.

Calculations of Newton 2

Use the equation, Fnet = ma to solve problems involving force, mass and acceleration
in the content of technology. (Do not include pulley problems and lift problems).
 Apply Newton's laws to a variety of equilibrium and non-equilibrium problems
including:
o A single object:

3
 - Moving on a horizontal plane with or without friction.
- Moving in the vertical plane.
o Two-body systems (joined by a light inextensible string):
- Both on a flat horizontal plane with and without friction.

NEWTON’S THIRD LAW

 State Newton's third law

 Identify and give examples of action-reaction pairs.
 List the properties of action-reaction pairs.

Example 1

A and B are two crates, each with a mass of 3 000 kg, made of different materials. They are
connected with a strong, but light steel cable – the mass is relative light and not of a significant
amount. The crates are pulled over a rough surface by a tractor with a normal force of 15 000 N,
that acts precisely horizontally on crate B, as indicated in the diagram. The tension in the cable is 8
000 N. The acceleration of both crates is 2 m.s-2. What is friction force each crate experiences?

Possible solutions

For A:
The force with which it is being pulled to the right = the tension force, T in the cable. The
crate experiences a friction force of fA to the left.
Fnet = ma
T – fA = ma
8 000 – fA = (3 000)(2)
fA = 2 000 N to the left

For B:
Fnet = ma
F – (T – fB) = ma
15 000 – (8 000 + fB) = (3 000)(2)
fB = 1 000 N to the left

4
EXAMPLE 2

The diagram below shows a 3 kg block connected to a 1 kg block by a light inextensible string. A
constant horizontal force of 20 N pulls the system along a rough horizontal surface.

Q P

1 kg 3 kg 20
N
rough horizontal surface

The frictional force between the blocks P and Q and the surface is 2 N and 1 N respectively.

1.1 State, in words, Newton’s Second Law of Motion. (2)

1.2 Draw a labelled force diagram showing ALL the horizontal forces acting on

the 3 kg block. (3)

1.3 1.3.1 Calculate the magnitude of the acceleration of the 3 kg block. (5)

1.3.2 Hence, determine the magnitude of the tension in the string. (2)

SOLUTION

1.1 When a net force is applied to an object, the object accelerates in the

direction of the net force. The acceleration is directly proportional to the (net)

force and inversely proportional to the mass of the object.  //

2N
1.2
3 kg 20 N

T
 

(3)


5
1.3 1.3.1 Consider the 1 kg block:

1N

1 kg T


Fnet = ma = T + f 

1a = T – 1

T = a+1 ……….. equation 1



Consider the 3 kg block:

FR = ma = Fapplied + T + Ff 

3a = 20 – T – 2 ……….. equation 2


Substituting for T:

3a = 20 – (a + 1) – 2

4a = 17

a = 4,25 m.s–2 (5)

OR/ OR

Fnet = ma

(F – f) = (M + m) a
 


20 – (2 +1) = 4a

a = 17/4 = 4,25 ms–2 (5)

1.3.2 T = a + 1 = 4,25 + 1 = 5,25 N (2)

6
LEARNER ACTIVITY

MULTIPLE CHOICE

Four options are provided as possible answers to the following questions. Each question has
only ONE correct answer. Write only the letter (A-D) next to the question number (1.1-1.3) in
the ANSWER BOOK, for example 1.6 D.

1.1. Net force is the measure of the …..

A change in energy
B rate of change in energy
C change in momentum
D rate of change in momentum (2)

1.2 Four forces act on a point, as indicated in the diagram.

The magnitudes of the resultant forces in the horizontal (Fx) and vertical (Fy) plane, are…

A. Fx = 3N and Fy = 5N

B. Fx = 8N and Fy = 1N

C. Fx = 3N and Fy = 1N

D. Fx = 8N and Fy = 5N (2)

1.3 Which ONE of the following forces always acts perpendicular to the surface on which a
body is placed?

A Normal force

7
 B Frictional force

C Gravitational force

D Tension force

1.4 Thabiso lifts a mass of 200kg, with uniform velocity, through a certain height in 2s. What
is the magnitude of the force that he exerts on the mass?

A 4000N

B 1960 N

C 1000 N

D 400 N

1.5 A learner is sitting on a chair. According to Newton’s Third law, the reaction force to the
learner’s weight is:

A the force of the learner on the chair

B the force of the chair on the learner

C the force of the earth on the learner

C the force of the learner on the earth

QUESTION 2

A man, on frictionless roller-skates, is standing at rest on the back of a truck which is

travelling at a constant velocity of 10 km • h–1, horizontally to the left.

2.1 While the truck is moving, in which direction and with what speed must the man
move, relative to the truck, (2)
in order to be stationary relative to the ground ?

8
2.2 If the man is initially at rest on the truck, in which direction, relative to the truck,
will the man be displaced (if at all ) if the truck slows down ? (1)

2.3 Name and describe, in words, the law used in Question 2.2 (2)

QUESTION 3
The diagram below shows the VW Polo that has a mass of 1 264 kg. The force of
friction on each wheel is 700 N while the car is moving to the left (at constant
velocity) and the normal reaction force on each wheel is 3 160 N.

3.1. Draw a force diagram (not to scale) of all the forces acting on the left
front wheel. (3)
3.2. Calculate the co-efficient of kinetic friction. (3)
3.3. Describe the difference between the co-efficient of kinetic friction and
the co-efficient of static friction. (2)
3.4. Modern motor cars are an example of the use of science to develop
technology that has impacted on humans. Make separate lists of the
positive impact and negative impact of cars on humans and the
environment. (4)

9
QUESTION 4
A force of 80 N is exerted on two frictionless trolleys that are on a horizontal track, as
indicated in the diagram. The trolleys are connected with a piece of rope (of
negligent mass).

4.1 State Newton’s Second Law of motion (2)

4.2 Draw two force diagrams, one for each trolley. Indicate and name all the forces
exerted on both trolleys. (7)
4.3 Calculate the acceleration of the two trolleys. (4)
[13]

QUESTION 5

You pull a block along a rough horizontal table with a force of 14 N and a
constant velocity. When you increase the pulling force to 31 N, the block
accelerates at 8,5 ms–2.

Calculate the following.

5.1 the frictional force between the block and the table (2)

5.2 the mass of the block (4)

5.3 the coefficient of kinetic friction, k, between the block and the table (4)

[10]

10
QUESTION 6

In your workbook, redraw the following table and fill in the missing information.

Net force Mass Acceleration

(N) (kg)
(m∙s–2)

1. 100 50

2. 50 50

3. 50 25

4. 100 2

(4)

6.1 Which law of motion did you use to complete the table? (2)
6.2 How does the acceleration change if the force is halved and the mass
is kept constant? (2)
6.3 How does the acceleration change if the mass is doubled and the force
is kept constant? (2)
6.4 What is the mathematical relationship between force and
acceleration (constant mass)? (2)
6.5 What is the mathematical relationship between mass and
acceleration (constant force)? (2)
[14]

QUESTION 7

A pencil lies on the dashboard of a car

7.1 What happens to the pencil when the car suddenly stops? (2)
7.2 What happens to the pencil when the car suddenly accelerates? (2)
7.3 Name the law that describes the behaviour of the pencil (2)
7.4 Name the property of the pencil that causes its behaviour (2)

11
QUESTION 8
A man pushes against a box of mass 2000 kg standing on the floor, with a force of
980N. If the frictional force with the floor remains at a constant 588N
8.1.1 State Newton ‘s second Law (2)
8.1.2 Define Acceleration (2)
8.1.3 Calculate the acceleration of the crate (4)
8.2 What happens to the acceleration of an object if:
8.2.1 the mass and net force both decreases by a factor of 4? (1)
8.2.2 the mass and net force both increases by a factor of 4? (1)
8.2.3 the mass increases by a factor of 4, but the net force decreases by the same
factor? (2)
8.2.4 the mass decreases by a factor of 4, and the net force is zero (1)
[11]

QUESTION 9

A boy pulls an object, mass 5 kg, over a carpet. The light, inextensible rope is
parallel to the floor.

The boy exerts a constant horizontal force of 3 N on the rope and the object moves
with a constant acceleration of 0,5 m•s–2.
9.1 Draw a sketch and by means of labelled arrows, show all the forces acting on the
object. (4)
9.2 Name each of the forces clearly and determine the magnitude of each. (4)

9.3 Keeping the force on the object a constant 3 N, the angle between the rope and
the horizontal is increased from 0° to 20°. Without doing any calculation state
HOW each of the forces indicated in your sketch is influenced by this. Use only
the words LARGER, SMALLER or UNCHANGED to say what has happened to
each of the forces.
(4)
[12]

12
QUESTION 10

During a journey, a truck is travelling at a speed of 6 m•s–1 when it collides with a

concrete wall and decelerates at 11,25 m•s–2 as it comes to rest. the box on the
back of the truck slides forward through a distance of 1,6 m on the back of the truck
before coming to rest.

10.1 Name, and explain in words, the property of the box that causes it to slide
forward on the back of the truck. (3)

10.2 Calculate the magnitude and direction of the average frictional force which
brings the box to rest. (4)
[7]

13
SESSION NO: 2

TOPIC: MOMENTUM AND IMPULSE

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

The following concepts are very important. You must be able to define each of the
following:

Momentum

Change in momentum

Impulse

Net force

Isolated system

 State the following:

Principle of conservation of momentum.

Newton’s second law in terms of Momentum

 Explain the relationship between the net force and the change in Momentum
for a variety of motions.
 Express the principle of conservation of momentum as an equation in all
situations, explosion or collision using  pi =  pf
 Draw vector diagrams to illustrate the relationship between the initial
momentum, final momentum and the change in Momentum
 Do calculations on:

 Momentum of a moving object using 𝑝 = 𝑚𝑣.

 Change in momentum using ∆𝑝 = 𝑚∆𝑣.
 All types of collisions (Elastic and inelastic collisions) using the following
equations:
o 𝑚1 𝑣𝑖1 + 𝑚2 𝑣𝑖2 = 𝑚1 𝑣𝑓1 + 𝑚2 𝑣𝑓2
o 𝑚1 𝑣𝑖1 + 𝑚2 𝑣𝑖2 = (𝑚1 + 𝑚2 )𝑣𝑓
o (𝑚1 + 𝑚2 )𝑣𝑓𝑖 = 𝑚1 𝑣𝑓1 + 𝑚2 𝑣𝑓2
 Impulse using 𝐹𝑛𝑒𝑡 ∆𝑡 = ∆𝑝 = 𝑚(𝑣𝑓 − 𝑣𝑖 )
 Proving that collisions are elastic or inelastic by comparing the total
kinetic energy of the system before and after collision by using:

1 1
𝑚𝑣𝑖 2 + 𝑚𝑣𝑖 2 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑡𝑤𝑜 𝑜𝑏𝑗𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑠
2 2

14
 1 1
𝑚𝑣𝑓 2 + 𝑚𝑣𝑓 2 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑡𝑤𝑜 𝑜𝑏𝑗𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑠
2 2

If the energies are the same then the collision is elastic BUT if not then
the collision is inelastic

 Solve impulse problems based on a graph.

MOMENTUM AND IMPULSE PROBLEM SOLVING STRATEGY

1 Read the problem as many time as you need, draw a sketch or diagram of the
situation described if not provided.
2 From the reading collect the data and write it in symbolic form (not only numbers
are part of the data
3 Draw a free body diagram for each object and clearly define the system you are
going to work with.
 If possible choose a system which is isolated ( F net  0 ) and closed (m=constant).
If the interactions are sufficiently short and intense you can ignore external
forces.
 If it is not possible to choose an isolated system, try to divide the problem into
parts (SCENARIOS).

4 Select the law (principle), theorem, equation or formula that will answer your
question.

 If the mathematical representation is based in the law of conservation of

momentum  p initial

  p final . Write it in component form.
5 Substitute the values into the equation or formula (the system of units must be
homogeneous)

6 Check your answer

 Is the unit correct?

 Is the value of the answer reasonable?

: Check that your result has the correct units, is reasonable and answers the
question.

WORKED EXAMPLES
Example 1
To improve the safety of motorists, modern cars are built so the front end crumples
upon impact. A 1200 kg car is travelling at a constant velocity of 8.0 m∙s -1. It hits an
immovable wall and comes to a complete stop in 0.25 s.

15
 Figure 1

1.1 Calculate the impulse provided to the car.

1.2 What is the average net force exerted on the car?
1.3 For the same impulse, what would be the average net force exerted on the car if
it had a rigid bumper and frame that stopped the car in 0.040 s?

Analysis and Solution

When the car hits the wall, the final velocity of the car is zero.
vf = 0 m∙s-1
During each collision with the wall, the net force on the car is not constant, but the
mass of the car remains constant.

Use the equation of impulse to calculate the impulse provided to the car.

1.1 Fnetave∆t = m∆v

= m(vf - vi )
= (1200 kg)[0 - (8.0)]
= (1200)(8.0)
= 9.6 ×103 kgm∙s-1
impulse = 9.6 ×103 N∙s [W]

Fnetave∆t = 9.6 ×103 N∙s

9,6 ×103
Fnetave = ∆𝑡

9,6 ×103
Fnetave = 0,25

= - 3.8 ×104 N

= 3.8 ×104 N [W]

9,6 ×103
1.3 Fnetave = ∆𝑡

16
 9,6 ×103
Fnetave =
0,040

= - 2.4 ×105N

= 2.4 ×105 N [W]

Example 2

Two billiard balls each with a mass of 150 g collide head-on in an elastic collision.
Ball 1 was travelling at a speed of 2 m·s-1 and ball 2 at a speed of 1,5 m·s-1. After the
collision, ball 1 travels away from ball 2 at a velocity of 1,5 m·s-1.

1.1 Calculate the velocity of ball 2 after the collision.

1.2 Prove that the collision was elastic. Show by calculations.

Solution

Step 1: Choose a frame of reference

Choose to the right as positive.

Step 2: Draw a rough sketch of the situation

Step 3: Decide how to approach the problem.

Since momentum is conserved in all kinds of collisions, we can use

conservation of momentum to solve for the velocity of ball 2 after the collision.

Step 4: Solve problem

∑ 𝐹⃗𝑒𝑥𝑡 = ⃗0⃗
∆𝑝⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 = ⃗0⃗
𝑝⃗𝑇𝑓 − 𝑝⃗𝑇𝑖 = ⃗0⃗
𝑝⃗𝑇𝑖 = 𝑝⃗𝑇𝑓
𝑝⃗𝑖1 + 𝑝⃗𝑖2 = 𝑝⃗𝑓1 + 𝑝⃗𝑓2
𝑚1 𝑣⃗𝑖1 + 𝑚2 𝑣⃗𝑖2 = 𝑚2 𝑣⃗𝑓2 + 𝑚2 𝑣⃗𝑓2
(0,15)(2) + (0,15)(−1,5) = (0,15)(−1,5) + 0,15𝑣⃗𝑓2
0,3 − 0,225 = −0,225 + 0,15𝑣⃗𝑓2

17
 𝑣⃗𝑓2 = 3 𝑚 ∙ 𝑠 −1 to the right.

Step 5: Elastic collisions

The fact that characterises an elastic collision is that the total kinetic energy of
the particles before the collision is the same as the total kinetic energy of the
particles after the collision. This means that if we can show that the initial kinetic
energy is equal to the final kinetic energy, we have shown that the collision is
elastic.

Step 6: Calculating the initial total kinetic energy.

2 2 (0,15)(2)2 (0,15)(−1,5)2
𝑚1 𝑣𝑖1 𝑚2 𝑣𝑖2
𝐸𝐾𝑇𝑖 = + = + = 0,469 𝐽
2 2 2 2

Step 7: Calculating the final total kinetic energy

2 2
𝑚1 𝑣𝑓1 𝑚2 𝑣𝑓2 (0,15)(−1,5)2 (0,15)(2)2
𝐸𝐾𝑇𝑓 = + = + = 0,469 𝐽
2 2 2 2

So 𝐸𝐾𝑇𝑖 = 𝐸𝐾𝑇𝑓 and hence the collision is elastic.

18
LEARNER ACTIVITY

QUESTION 1 : MULTIPLE CHOICE

1.1 When an airbag inflates in a car during a collision, the chances of serious injury to a
passenger is reduced because the

A passenger is brought to rest in a shorter distance

B net force acting on the passenger is reduced

C passenger’s change in momentum is reduced

D passenger’s change in momentum is increased

1.2 A truck of mass 2m collides with a car of mass m. If the truck exerts a force of
magnitude F on the car during the collision, then the magnitude of the force that the
car exerts on the truck is…

A 0

B ½ F.

C F

D 2F

1.3 A block, being pulled by a force F, and moving to the left on a rough horizontal
surface, is slowing down.

The directions of the resultant force and the acceleration are …

DIRECTION OF DIRECTION OF
RESULTANT FORCE ACCELERATION
A to the right to the left
B to the right to the right
C to the left to the left
D to the left to the right

19
1.4

1.5

STRUCTURED QUESTIONS

QUESTION 2

Car A of 2000 kg moving at 8 m.s-1 to the east collide with Car B of mass 4000 kg
moving at 1 m.s-1 to the west.

VA = 8m.s-1 VB = 0 m.s-1 VA = 4m.s-1

2.1 State the principle of conservation of linear momentum (2)

2.2 Calculate the change in momentum of the 2000 kg car. (3)

20
2.3 What will be the velocity of car B if car A moves with velocity of 4 m.s-1 after
collision? (5)

QUESTION 3

A cannon has a mass of 1 500 kg and is a 1 000 times heavier than the cannon ball
that

it fires during a routine training exercise. The cannon ball leaves the barrel at a
horizontal velocity of 70 m.s–1.

1500 kg

70 m.s–1

The cannon comes to rest 1 second after being fired.

3.1 Define, in words, the term impulse. (2)

3.2 Calculate the:

3.2.1 Maximum velocity with which the cannon moves backwards (5)

3.2.2 Magnitude of the average net force that causes the cannon to

come to rest (4)

QUESTION 4

4.1 A rubber ball with a mass of 800 g is dropped and hits the floor with an
initial downward velocity of 6m.s-1. The ball bounces back with a final
velocity of 4m.s-1. Calculate the change in momentum of the ball. (4)
4.2 Serena Williams hits a tennis ball of mass 400g approaching her at a
velocity of 10m.s-1 east. The ball leaves his racket at a velocity of 15m.s-1
west. Calculate
4.2.1 the impulse of the ball
(3)
4.2.2 The force that the racket applies on the ball if the time of contact
is 0.01 seconds.
(3)
4.3 Explain the importance of the crumple zone (3)

21
QUESTION 5

The diagram below shows two trolleys, P and Q, held together by means of
a compressed spring on a flat, frictionless horizontal track. The masses of
P and Q are 300 g and 500 g respectively.

P Q

300 g 500 g

When the trolleys are released , it takes 0,5 s for the spring to unwind to its natural
length. Trolley Q then moves to the right at 2 m∙s-1.

5.1 State the principle of conservation of linear momentum in words. (2)

5.2 Calculate the:

5.2.1 Velocity of trolley P after the trolleys are released (4)

5.2.2 Magnitude of the average force exerted by the spring on trolley Q (4)

5.3 Is this an elastic or Inelastic collision? (1)

[11]

QUESTION 6

The diagram below shows a bullet of mass 20g that is travelling

horizontally. The bullet strikes a stationary 7kg block and becomes
embedded in it. The bullet and block together travel on a rough horizontal
surface a distance of 2m before coming to a stop
20 g
7 kg

2m

At the moment of impact the bullet and the block begin to move with a velocity of
2,39 m•s‒1.

6.1 State the principle of conservation of linear momentum in words. (2)

22
 6.2 Calculate the magnitude of the velocity with which the bullet hits the block. (4)

QUESTION 7

A trolley, mass 5 kg, moves at 4 m·s-1 east across a frictionless horizontal surface.

A brick of mass 1,5 kg is dropped onto the trolley.

1,5 kg

4 m·s-1
5 kg

7.1 Define in words the Law of Conservation of Momentum. (2)

7.2 State the condition for an elastic collision. (1)
7.3 Calculate the change in momentum of the 5 kg trolley. (5)
[8]

QUESTION 8

8.1 A 65-kg girl is driving a 535 kg snowmobile at a constant velocity of 11.5 m∙s -1
[60N of E]. Calculate the momentum of the girl-snowmobile system. (3)

8.2 The combined mass of a bobsled and two riders is 390 kg. The sled-rider system
has a constant momentum of 4.68 x 103 kgm∙s-1 [W]. Calculate the velocity of the
sled. (4)
[7]

23
SESSION 3
CONSOLIDATION NEWTON’S LAW, MOMENTUM & IMPULSE

QUESTION 1 : MULTIPLE CHOICE

1.1 Two blocks, X and Y, masses m and 2m respectively, are in contact with
each other. The blocks are accelerated by a horizontal force F along a
frictionless, horizontal surface. What is the magnitude of the force that Y
exerts on X?

A 2𝐹
B 𝐹
C 2⁄ 𝐹
3
D 1⁄ 𝐹
3

1.2 A constant force Fa acts on an object, causing it to move at a constant

speed over a rough horizontally surface as shown in the diagram below.

How does the force of friction Ff compare to Fa?

A Ff = Fa
B Ff> Fa
C Ff< Fa
D Ff = 0

1.3 A block, being pulled by a force F, and moving to the left on a rough
horizontal surface, is slowing down.

24
 The directions of the resultant force and the acceleration are …
DIRECTION OF DIRECTION OF
RESULTANT FORCE ACCELERATION

A to the right to the left

B to the right to the right

C to the left to the left

D to the left to the right

1.4 A 1 kg mass has a constant acceleration. Which ONE of the following

sketch graphs correctly shows the relationship between the net force, Fnet
and acceleration, a?
A B
Fnet Fnet

a a
C D
Fnet Fnet

a a

1.5 When a spaceship moves at constant velocity, it means that the resultant
force acting on the body is zero. This phenomenon is best explained by
A Newton’s First Law
B Newton’s Second Law
C Newton’s Third Law
D Newton’s Universal Gravitational Law

1.6 Which ONE of the following forces always acts perpendicular to the
surface on which a body is placed?
A Normal force
B Frictional force
C Gravitational force

25
 D Tension force

1.7 Two forces, F1and F2 , are applied on a crate lying on a frictionless,

horizontal surface, as shown in the diagram below.

The magnitude of force F1is greater than that of force F2.

The crate will...
A accelerate towards the east.
B accelerate towards the west.
C move at a constant speed towards the east.
D move at a constant speed towards the west.

QUESTION 2
Peter and John are standing on a trolley, which is moving to the right at 2 m·s-1 as
shown below. Peter has a mass of 70 kg and John a mass of 60 kg. The total
mass of the trolley and both boys is 160 kg.
-1
2 m·s

John jumps off the trolley at 2,5 m∙s-1 in the direction of the motion of the trolley.
When he lands on the ground he falls forward.

2.1 Name the principle (law) of Physics which explains why he falls forward
after landing on the ground. (1)

2.2 State the principle of conservation of linear momentum in words. (2)

2.3 Calculate the magnitude and the direction of the velocity of the
combination of Peter and the trolley immediately after John has jumped
off. (5)
[8]

26
 QUESTION 3

.A truck of mass 3 000 kg is travelling at 29,17 m∙s−1to the right. At the same time a car

of mass 1 000 kg is travelling at 22 m∙s−1 in the same direction ahead of the truck

29,17 m•s−1 22 m•s−1

Ignore the effects of friction.

The truck collides with the car and they stick together after the collision.

3.1 State the principle of conservation of linear momentum in words. (2)

3.2 Calculate the velocity of the truck-car system immediately after the collision. (5)

3.3 Is the collision between the truck and the car elastic or inelastic? (1)

3.4 On impact the truck exerts a force of magnitude F on the car and the car
experiences an acceleration of magnitude a.

3.4.1 Will the magnitude of the force that the car exerts on the truck, on impact, be
GREATER THAN, LESS THAN or EQUAL TO, F. (1)

3.4.2 Name and state the Law of motion that explains the answer to question 3.4.1
(3)

[8]
QUESTION 4

Collisions happen on the roads in our country daily. In one of these collisions, a car
of mass 1 600 kg, travelling at a speed of 30 m·s-1 to the left, collides head-on with a
minibus of mass 3 000 kg, travelling at 20 m·s-1 to the right. The two vehicles move
together as a unit in a straight line after the collision.

3 000 kg 1 600 kg

20 m·s-1 30 m·s-1

4.1 Calculate the velocity of the two vehicles after the collision. (6)

27
 Do the necessary calculations to show that the collision was inelastic.
4.2 (6)

4.3 The billboard below advertises a car from a certain manufacturer.

Safety first!
Both in one package!

Airbag Crumple zone

Before impact
After impact

Use your knowledge of momentum and impulse to justify how the safety
features mentioned in the advertisement contribute to the safety of
passengers. (3)
[15]

QUESTION 5

The most common reasons for rear-end collisions are too short a following distance,
speeding and failing brakes. The sketch below represents one such collision. Car A of
mass 1 000 kg, stationary at a traffic light, is hit from behind by Car B of mass 1 200
-1
kg, travelling at 18 m·s . Immediately after the collision Car A moves forward at
12 m·s-1.
Before
Car A Car B
18 m·s-1

After
Car A Car B
12 m·s-1 ?

28
5.1 Assume that linear momentum is conserved during this collision. Calculate
the speed of Car B immediately after the collision. (4)

5.2 Modern cars are designed to crumple partially on impact. Explain why the
assumption made in QUESTION 4.1 may NOT be valid in this case. (2)

5.3 A traffic officer appears at the scene of the accident and mentions the dangers
of a head-on collision. He mentions that for cars involved in a head-on
collision, the risk of injury for passengers in a heavier car would be less than
for passengers in a lighter car. Use principles of Physics to explain why the (3)
statement made by the traffic officer is correct.
[9]

QUESTION 6

6.1 A ball of mass 450 g collides with a wall at a horizontal velocity of 12m.s -1. The
ball bounces back at a horizontal speed of 8m.s-1.

6.1.1 Calculate the change in momentum of the ball (4)

6.1.2 Calculate the impulse of the ball (1)

6.1.3 Calculate the force that the wall applies on the ball if the time of contact
between the wall and the ball is 0.02 s. (3)

6.2 Why do you bend your knees as you land when you jump off a low wall? (3)

6.3 Why do golf players follow through on their swing with a golf club? (3)

6.4 Why are airbags built into carts as a safety device? (3)

6.5 Are there any similarities between crumple zone of cars and the foam rubber
mattresses used by high jumpers? If you think there are, explain similarities. (3)

[20]

29
SESSION 4

TOPIC: WORK, ENERGY AND POWER

WORK

Definition

Work is the product of the product of the force applied on the object and the
displacement in the direction of the force.

Work is measured in Joules.

Work is a scalar quantity.

1J = 1N.m
For work to be done: W = F .Δx .cos θ

When is work done on an object?

 The force doing work on the object and the displacement are in the same direction. Θ= 0o
 If the force is perpendicular to direction of the displacement, no work is done on the object.
Θ= 90o

The main steps involved in problem-solving :

 identify the force(s) acting on the object,

 draw the free-body diagram,
 and then use the equation ( W = F .Δx .cos θ).

EXAMPLES

1 In which one of the following case(s) is/are work done?

1.1 A man is pushing a ridge on a flat surface in the kitchen.
1.2 A teacher is walking across the class holding a briefcase.
1.3 Thabo is supporting a huge box preventing it from falling.
1.4 Paramedics are lifting an injured player on a stretcher.
2 Themba pushes a crate by applying a constant a force of 400N towards a wall 1,8m away.

30
 Calculate the work done on the box.
Solutions
1.1 Work is done on the fridge.
1.2 Work is not done on the briefcase. The force exerted on the briefcase is perpendicular to the
displacement.
1.3 Work is not done on the box. There is zero displacement.
1.4 Work is done.
2 W = F∆x cos Ɵ
W = 400(1,8)Cos0o
W = 720J

ENERGY

Definition:
Energy is the ability to do work.

The two main forms of energy are kinetic and gravitational potential energy.
1
Ep = mgh KE = 2
mv2

An object in a state of motion possesses kinetic energy whereas an object at some height
above the ground possesses gravitational potential energy.
Energy is a scalar quantity.
SI unit is the Joule (J)
When doing calculations, necessary conversion of units needs to be done.

EXAMPLES
A worker at a construction site accidentally drops concrete block of mass 8kg from a scaffold which
is 10m above the ground. Ignore the effects of air resistance.
1. Calculate the mechanical energy of the block.
2. Calculate much gravitational potential energy does the block possess when it is has fallen
half the distance.
3. Calculate the speed of the block when it reaches the ground.
Solutions
When the block drops, it starts from rest, that is, its speed is 0m/s, therefore its kinetic energy just
before it falls, is zero:
1
1. ME = mgh + mv2
2
ME = 8(9,8)10 + 0
ME = 784J

31
 2. Ep = mgh
Ep = 8(9,8)5
Ep = 392 J
1
3. ME = mgh + 2
mv2
1
784 = 0 + 2 (8)v2

V = 14m.s-1

CONSERVATION OF MECHANICAL ENERGY

Definition

Mechanical energy of an object is the sum or total of its gravitational potential and kinetic energy.

Principle of conservation of mechanical energy:

The total mechanical energy of an object in an isolated system remains constant.

Mechanical energy of an object

Mechanical energy : ME = Ek + Ep

An object is said to have potential energy if it has the ability to do work by way of its position
or state and the same object will possess kinetic energy due to its state of motion.
Kinetic energy is a form of energy associated with the motion of a particle, single body, or
system of objects moving together.

𝟏
Ep = mgh and KE = 𝟐
mv2
𝟏
Thus, ME = mgh + 𝟐
mv2
Relationship between object’s mass, potential energy and height.
• EP α h (For a constant mass)
• EP α m (From the same height above the ground)

Relationship between object’s mass, kinetic energy and velocity :

• EK α v2
• EK α m

Between any two points, mechanical energy of an object remains constant

Emi = Emf

32
POWER

Definition

Power is the rate at which work is done.

Power can be also thought of as the rate at which energy is transferred or amount of work
done per unit time.

𝑾 ∆𝑬
𝑷 = ∆𝒕 or 𝑷= ∆𝒕

SI unit of power is the Watt (W)

1Watt = 1J.s-1

When an object travels at a constant velocity,

P = F.v

Practical units of power in Technology are:

1kW = 1000 W
1 Horse power (hp) = 726 W

Because work is energy transfer, power is also the rate at which energy is expended.
A 100-W light bulb, for example, expends 60 J of energy per second.
Great power means a large amount of work or energy developed in a short time. For
example, when a powerful car accelerates rapidly, it does a large amount of work and
consumes a large amount of fuel in a short time.

EXAMPLES

1. If a motor is rated at 5.60 kW, how much work can it do in 20 min?

2. A tow-truck is pulling a trailer up a steep-hill. If it has a 5hp engine, how much work does the
truck do in 1 minute?

SOLUTIONS

𝑊
1. 𝑃 =
∆𝑡

𝑊
5,6 x 1000 = 20𝑥60

W = 6720000

33
 W = 6720 kJ

𝑊
2. 𝑃 = ∆𝑡
𝑊
5 x 746 = 60
W = 223,8 kJ

LEARNER ACTIVITY

Question 1: MULTIPLE CHOICE

1.1 In which one of the following cases is work NOT done on the object?
A. A crane lifts a pile of tiles from the floor to the roof
B. A boy drags a loaded suite case along the floor
C. An fruit falls from a tree
D. A man applies a force on a fridge, preventing it from falling.
(2)
1.2 Which one of the following is equivalent to the SI unit of energy?
A. A mass of 1 kg falls down for 1 m.
B. A force of 1 N moves an object for 1 m in its direction.
C. A Joule of work is done per second.
D. An applied force of 1 N acts on a stationary object
(2)
The figure below shows an applied force F that acts on an object of mass m, at an angle of 600.
The object moves horizontally to the left on a rough surface.
Refer to the figure, to answer Questions (1.3 and 1.4)

34
1.3 Which one of the following about the magnitude and direction of the horizontal component of
force F is CORRECT?
A. Fsin600 to the right.
B. Fsin600 to the left.
C. Fcos600 to the right.
D. Fcos600 to the left.
(2)
1.4 Which one of the combinations of forces listed below does work on this object in motion?
A. Weight, friction.
B. Normal force, friction
C. Friction, horizontal component of force F
D. Force due to gravity, vertical component of force F
(2)
1.5 Which one of the following is equivalent to a horse power?
A. 1 kW
B. 1 J.s-1
C. 1 N.m
D. 746 J.s-1 (2)
[10]

SECTION B

Question 2

A worker pulls a crate of mass 30 kg from rest along a horizontal floor by

applying a constant force of magnitude 50 N at an angle of 30° to the
horizontal. A frictional force of magnitude 20 N acts on the crate whilst
moving along the floor.

2.1 Define the term work. (2)

2.2 Draw a labelled free-body diagram showing all the forces that act on the block. (4)

2.3 Calculate the

2.3.1 magnitude of the horizontal component of the applied force. (3)

2.3.2 work done by the horizontal component of the applied force. (3)

2.3.3 work done due to the frictional force acting on the box. (3)

35
2.4 Briefly explain why the normal force does no work on the box. (2)

Question 3

The figure below shows a boy who skates from rest at point A to point B on an uneven
frictionless surface. The combined mass of the boy and the skateboard is 75 kg. Ignore the
effects of air resistance.

3.1 State the principle of conservation of mechanical energy, in words. (2)

3.2 Calculate the magnitude of gravitational potential energy of the boy and the skateboard
at point A. (3)

3.3 It is observed that the boy moves at the highest speed while he moves past the lowest
point of the track. Using energy principles, briefly explain this observation. (3)

3.4 Calculate the speed of the boy and the skateboard when he reaches point B. (4)

Question 4

A lift of mass 800 kg has a maximum load of 600 kg. In full capacity, the lift cable pulls it 30
m up, at a constant speed of 5 m/s. Ignore air resistance.

36
4.1 Define the term power. (2)

4.2 The weight of the lift is doing negative work on the lift. Briefly explain. (2)

4.3 Calculate the average power of the motor as it lifts the elevator 30 m upwards. (4)

Question 5

A racing motorbike has a mass of 450 kg, at most it has a maximum power output of 3 hp.

5.1 Convert the power output of the motorbike to Watts. (2)

5.2 Calculate the work done by the engine if the motorbike moves for 5 seconds at maximum
power output. (3)

37
SESSION 5

ELASTICITY

Definitions
A deforming force is a force that changes the shape and size of the object
A restoring force develops inside the body and tries to bring back the original shape and size of the
object
Elasticity of a body is the property of the body by virtue of which the body regains its original shape
and size when the deforming force is removed.
The internal restoring force per unit area of body is called stress.

Strain is the ratio of change in dimension to the original dimension.

Hooke’s law states that, within the limit of elasticity, stress is directly proportional to strain.

Young’s modulus: is a measure of the forces between the particles of the material. These forces
resist a tensile force.

A spring constant is a measure of the force exerted by a spring as it tries to return to its
equilibrium position.
The restoring force can be calculated using :
⃗𝑭⃗ = -k𝒙
⃗⃗
During deformation, two forces act on an object simultaneously – deforming force and
restoring force
Deforming force and restoring force have equal magnitudes and opposite direction.
Deforming force is directly proportional to the restoring force
Perfectly plastic body:

A body which does not show a tendency to regain its original shape and size when the
deforming force is removed is a perfectly plastic body.

Stress

To calculate stress in a material, we use the equation:

𝑭
𝝈=
𝑨

SI unit of stress is the Pascal

1 Pa = 1 N.m-2

38
Examples

A 15 m marble column of cross sectional area 3 𝑚2 support a mass of 15 000 kg. The column
measures 14,7 m after the load is applied. Calculate the stress within the column.

𝐹
𝝈=
𝐴

𝐹 = 𝑚𝑔

𝐹 = 15 000 × 9,8

𝐹 = 147 000 N
147000
𝜎= 3

𝜎 = 49 000 Pa

𝜎 = 49 000 𝑁 ∙ 𝑚−2

Strain

𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒊𝒏 𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒈𝒕𝒉
𝑺𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒊𝒏 =
𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒊𝒏𝒂𝒍 𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒈𝒕𝒉

The equation

∆𝒍
𝜺=𝑳 , is used to calculate strain
𝒐

strain has no units, since it is a ratio of two same dimensions.

The graph below shows the relationship that exists between the restoring force of an object
that is subjected to some degree of deformation.

39
The demonstration of a ruler can be used to explain the following observations:

 As the size of the deforming force increases, so does the size of the force that opposes
deformation (stress).
 It is exactly when the ruler experiences elastic deformation.
 As the magnitude of the deforming force reaches the yield point, the size of the restoring
force remains more or less constant until the ruler snaps (rapture point)
 Beyond the yield point, it is important to note that the ruler is now experiencing an
irreversible from of deformation (plastic deformation).

Hooke’s law is given by:

F = kΔL

Rearranging this to:

𝑭
∆𝑳 =
𝑲

, makes it clear that the deformation (ΔL ) is proportional to the applied force (F).
Hooke’s law is applicable to most solids from iron to bone but is only valid up to a certain
point.

The graph below shows a region where Hooke’s law is obeyed and where it is not obeyed:

40
 tensile stress
Youngs modulus, Y = represented mathematically as
tensile strain
𝝈 𝝈
𝑲= 𝜺
OR 𝜸= 𝜺

Unit: 1 N∙m-2 or 1 Pa

Examples

A vertical steel beam in a building support a load of 6,0 × 104 𝑘𝑔. The length of the beam is 4,0 m
and its cross sectional area is 8,0 × 10−3 𝑚2 . The elastic (young’s ) modulus is 2,0 × 1011 𝑃𝑎 and
the ultimate stress of steel is 5,0 × 108 𝑃𝑎.

1.1 Calculate the amount of compression in the beam.

1.2 Find the maximum load the beam can support.

Solution

1.1 𝜎 = 𝑌𝜀
𝐹 ∆𝑙
𝐴
=𝑌𝐿
𝑜

6,0×104 ∆𝑙
8,0×10−3
= 2,0 × 1011 (4,0)

∆𝑙 = 1,5 × 10−4 m

1.2 Set the compressive stress equal to the ultimate compressive strength.

𝐹 𝐹
= = 5.0 × 108 .
𝐴 8.0 × 10−3

𝐹 = 4,0 × 106 N

Example on Hookes law

A 1,5 m long steel piano wire has a diameter of 0,2 cm. It is stretched 0,2 m when tightened.

1.1 State Hooke’s law in words.

1.2 Calculate the tension in the wire.

Solutions

41
 1.1 Hooke’s law states that, within a limit of elasticity, stress is directly proportional to strain.
1.2

𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑚𝑒𝑡𝑒𝑟
𝑟𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑢𝑠 =
2

0,2 × 10−2
𝑟𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑢𝑠 =
2

= 0,001 𝑚

𝐴 = 𝜋𝑟 2

𝐴 = 3,14(0,001)2

𝐴 = 3,1 × 10−6 𝑚2

𝜎 = 𝑌𝜀

𝐹 ∆𝑙
=𝑌
𝐴 𝐿𝑜

𝐹 0,2
3.1×10−6
=2.0 × 1011 (1.5)

𝐹 = 8,27 × 104 𝑁

42
LEARNER ACTIVITY

Question 1: MULTIPLE CHOICE

1.1 Which one of the following is the correct regarding a deforming force?
A. Changes the volume of object.
B. Changes the mass of the object.
C. Changes the size and shape of the object.
D. Size and shape remain constant.
(2)

1.2 Which one of the following is an example of a perfectly plastic body?

A. Aluminium can
B. Foam rubber
C. Glass
D. Tennis ball (2)

1.3 The SI unit of stress is equivalent to

A. 1 kg.m.s-1
B. 1 N.m-2
C. 1 J.s
D. 1 W (2)
1.4 A force of 2 kN is exerted on a cubicle object, the stress experienced by the object is 500Pa. The
area on which the force acts is:
A. 340 m2
B. 3,4 m2
C. 0,29 m2
D. 29 m2

(2)

1.5 Consider the graph below showing the stress-strain for different materials :

43
Which one of the following materials has the greatest modulus of elasticity?

A. Aluminium
B. Brass
C. Composite
D. Steel (2)

[10]

Question 2

Consider the situation below wherein a learner applies a force on a spring. The force
meter measures the force applied

2.1 define the following terms

2.1.1 deforming force (2)
2.1.2 restoring force (2)
2.2 What is the reading on the force meter which measures the applied force? (1)
2.3 How does the magnitude and direction of the applied force compare to that of the restoring
force? Write down only LESS THAN, EQUAL TO or GREATER THAN. Explain briefly
(3)
2.4.1 In another demonstration, a learner applies a deforming force on a string with a
constant of 40N.m-1 for a distance of 20cm.
Calculate the magnitude of the restoring force? (3)
2.4.2 If the force applied to deform the spring is doubled, what will be the new restoring
force. (2)

Question 3

A metal strip has a diameter of 25 cm and is 2m long. A force of 12 N is applied on the

circular cross sectional area.
3.1 Assume that the material is elastic. Calculate the stress within the metal strip. (3)
3.2 A rectangular concrete beam carries a load of mass 400kg. The rectangular cross-sectional
area of the beam has dimensions, 1,5 m x 2,5 m. Assume that the concrete is elastic.
Determine the magnitude of stress in the beam. (4)

44
 3.3 How much force would create a stress of 750 Pa on a cubic rubber material with a length of
200 mm? (4)
3.4 In most real-life applications, beams are usually I-shaped.

Give TWO reasons for this. (2)

Question 4
A metal strip has a diameter of 40mm and is 3 m long. A constant force acts on the strip and
stretches it by 5mm.
4.1 Determine the strain in the strip (3)
4.2 A steel bar is 10 mm in diameter and 2 m long. It is stretched by a force of 20 kN and extends to
2,03 m. Calculate the strain of the bar (3)
4.3 A rod is 0,5 m long and 5 mm in diameter. The rod is stretched 0,06 mm by a force of 3 kN.
Calculate the strain. (3)

Question 5

5.1 What is the magnitude of required to stretch a 20 cm long spring with a spring
constant of 100 N/m to a length of 21 cm? (3)
5.2 What is the spring constant of a spring that needs a force of 3 N to be compressed
from 40 cm to 35 cm? (3)
5.3 A spring stretches 5 cm when a load of 20 N is hung on it. If instead, we put a load of
30 N, how much will the spring stretch? What is the spring constant? (3)
5.4 A spring has a spring constant that is equal to 3.5. What force (in kilograms) will
make it stretch 4 cm? (4)

Question 6
A steel wire 10m long and 2mm in diameter is attached to the ceiling and a 200N weight is
attached to its end.
6.1 What is the magnitude of the applied stress? (3)

45
6.2 It is noted that the wire stretches 3,08 mm due to the 200N load. Calculate the strain on the
wire. (3)
8
6.3 The elastic limit of the steel wire is 2,48 x 10 Pa. Determine the maximum weight that can be
supported without exceeding the elastic limit of the wire. (3)
6.4 Calculate the modulus of elasticity of the wire (3)
Question 7

The diagram below shows a setup of apparatus done by the teacher.

Different masses are suspended and the corresponding elongations are obtained.

Table of results

Mass (g) 0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200

X (cm) 0 1 2 3 4 5 8

W (N)

7.1 Copy and complete the table of results. (7)

7.2 What NAME is given to the force causing the spring to elongate? (1)
7.3 Using a graph paper, plot a graph of weight (N) versus elongation (cm). (6)
7.4 Briefly explain why the pattern changes from the fifth reading (2).

46
SESSION 6

VISCOCITY

Definition
viscosity is the property of the fluid to oppose relative motion between two adjacent layers.

In figure below:

a. Laminar flow occurs in layers without mixing. Notice that viscosity causes drag
between layers as well as with the fixed surface.
b. An obstruction in the vessel produces turbulence. Turbulent flow mixes the fluid.
There is more interaction, greater heating, and more resistance than in laminar flow.
Viscosity is the property of the fluid to oppose relative motion between the two adjacent
layers, thus a fluid with high viscosity will tend to have the greatest resistance to flow

Viscosity varies from one fluid to another by several orders of magnitude.

Effect of temperature on viscosity:

 As you might expect, the viscosities of gases are much less than those of liquids and these
viscosities are often temperature dependent.
 The viscosity of liquids decrease with increasing temperature, while that of gases increases
with increasing temperature

47
Motor oil viscosity grades

Motor oil, engine oil, or engine lubricant is any of various substances that is used as a
substance that reduces friction between moving parts of an internal combustion engines.

The main function of motor oil:

 To reduce wear and tear on moving parts.

 Prevent corrosion
 Cools the engine by carrying the heat away from the moving parts.

HYDRAULICS

Definitions

Thrust is the normal force exerted by a liquid at rest on a given surface in contact with it.

Pressure at a point is the thrust force acting per unit area.

Pascal’s Law states that, in a continuous liquid at equilibrium, the pressure applied at any point is
transmitted equally to the other parts of the liquid.

Pressure (P) can be thought of as, the force divided by the area perpendicular to the force
over which the force is applied. The mathematical expression of pressure is given by:

𝑭
𝑷=
𝑨

where F is a force applied to an area A that is perpendicular to the force.

Force must be in Newtons (N) and area in square metres (m2)

The SI unit for pressure is the Pascal, P where

1 Pa = 1 N∙m-2.

48
In addition to the Pascal, there are many other units for pressure that are in common use. In
meteorology, atmospheric pressure is often described in units of millibar (mb), where

100 mb = 1×105 Pa .

Other units used in technology are:

 1 atmosphere (atm) = 1,01105 Pa

 1 bar = 105 Pa
 1 torr = 133 Pa

𝟏
P𝜶 , Pressure and area are inversely proportional.
𝑨

a. While the person being poked with the finger might be irritated, the force has little
lasting effect.
b. In contrast, the same force applied to an area the size of the sharp end of a needle is
great enough to break the skin.

General properties of liquids:

 Liquid substances are generally incompressible

 Pressure of a liquid increases with depth
 The fluid pressure exerted by a static fluid depends only upon the depth of the fluid,
the density of the fluid and the acceleration due to gravity.

 Fluid pressure does not depend upon the total mass or total volume of the liquid.

Fluid pressure is calculated by the following equation:

𝑷 = 𝝆𝒈𝒉

, where ρ is the symbol for density, g is the gravitational acceleration , and h is the average
depth of the liquid

Pascal’s law

The equation :

49
 𝑭𝟏 𝑭
𝑨𝟏
= 𝑨𝟐 ,
𝟐

is used to calculate force and area in hydraulic systems such as lifts, jacks, etc.

A typical hydraulic system with two fluid-filled cylinders, capped with pistons and connected
by a tube called a hydraulic line.

A downward force 𝑭𝟏 on the left piston creates a pressure that is transmitted undiminished to
all parts of the enclosed fluid.

This results in an upward force 𝑭𝟐 on the right piston that is larger than 𝑭𝟏 because the right
piston has a larger area.

Relationship Between Forces in a Hydraulic System

𝑭𝟏 𝑭
𝑨𝟏
= 𝑨𝟐 Where 𝑨𝟐 > 𝑨𝟏
𝟐

Hydraulic lift

Hydraulic lift is used to lift heavy loads.

Examples:

(a) Car lifts and jacks

(b) Hydraulic brakes

50
Example 1

The surface of a water in a storage tank is 30 m above a water faucet in the kitchen of a house.
Calculate the pressure of the water on the faucet.

Solution

Water is practically incompressible, so ρ is constant. For water ρ= 1,0 × 103 𝑘𝑔 ∙ 𝑚−3.

𝑃 = 𝜌𝑔ℎ

𝑃 = (1,0 × 103 )(9,8)(30)

𝑃 = 2,9 × 105 Pa

OR

𝑃 = 2,9 × 105 𝑁 ∙ 𝑚−2

Example 2

The dam is 500 m wide, and the water is 80.0 m deep at the dam.

2.1 What is the average pressure on the dam due to the water?
2.2 Calculate the force exerted against the dam and compare it with the weight of water in the dam
(previously found to be 1.96×1013 N ).

Solution

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2.1 The average pressure due to the weight of a fluid is

P = ρhg.

P = (103) (40.0) 9.8)

= 3.92×105 Nm2 = 392 kPa.

2.3 The force exerted on the dam by the water is the average pressure times the area of contact:
F = P. A

We have already calculated the value for P . The area of the dam is A = 80.0 m×500 m

A = 4.00×104 m2 , so that

F=P A

F = (3.92×105 )(4.00×104)

= 1.57×1010 N.

Example 3

A force of 100 N is applied to the brake pedal, which acts on the cylinder—called the master—
through a lever. A force of 500 N is exerted on the master cylinder. Pressure created in the master
cylinder is transmitted to four so-called slave cylinders. The master cylinder has a diameter of 0.500
cm, and each slave cylinder has a diameter of 2.50 cm. Calculate the force F2 created at each of the
slave cylinders.

Solution

52
 𝐹1 𝐹2
= can be used to find the force F2 .
𝐴1 𝐴2

𝐹1 𝐹2
=
𝐴1 𝐴2

𝐹1 𝐹2
2
= 2
𝜋𝑟 𝜋𝑟
500 𝐹2
=
0,2502 1,252

𝐹2 = 1.25 × 104 N.

Example 4

In a car lift use in service station, compressed air exerts a force on a small piston of circular cross
section having a radius of 5,0 cm. This pressure is transmitted by an incompressible liquid to a
second piston of radius 15,0 cm. What force must the compressed air exert on the small piston in
other to lift a car weighing 13 300 N?

Solution

𝐹1 𝐹2
=
𝐴1 𝐴2

The area of the piston are unknown, but 𝐴 = 𝜋𝑟 2

𝐹1 𝐹2
2 =
𝜋𝑟1 𝜋𝑟22

𝐹1 13 300
−2 2
=
(3,14)(5.0 × 10 ) (3,14)(15.0 × 10−2 )2

𝐹1 =1,48 × 103 N

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LEARNER ACTIVITY

1.1 A liquid with a high viscosity:

A. Has a definite volume.
B. Flows faster.
C. Flows slowly.
D. Fills the container. (2)

1.2 The ______________ is responsible for resistance to flow.

A. Tension force.
B. Gravitational force.
C. Pressure.
D. Intermolecular forces. (2)

1.3 Which one of the following quantities or property is used in application of hydraulic lifts?
A. Thermal conductivity.
B. Pressure of fluids.
C. Viscosity of fluids.
D. Stiffness of material. (2)

1.4 Which one of the following statements is INCORRECT?

A. All liquids are generally incompressible.

B. Pressure of a liquid increases with depth

C. The fluid pressure exerted by a static fluid depends only upon the depth of the fluid, the
density of the fluid and the acceleration due to gravity.

D. Fluid pressure does depends upon the total mass or total volume of the liquid.

(2)

1.5 The correct SI unit of fluid pressure is :

A. 1 bar
B. 1 atm
C. 1 Pa
D. 1 kPa (2)
[10]

54
Question 2

Grade 12 learners are performing an experiment to compare the rate of flow of three
different fluids as show in the figure below.

Study the figure carefully and answer the questions that follow.

2.1 Which property of fluids are the learners comparing between the three substances?(1)
2.2 Why is it important that learners keep track of time during the experiment? (2)
2.3 Identify any THREE apparatus used in this experiment. (3)
In a separate experiment compare the rate of flow of milk, motor engine oil and honey, the
following results were obtained:
Table of results

Type of Fluid Time taken to reach

100ml mark (s)

Milk 142

Motor engine oil 267

Honey 276

2.4 Identify the substance with:

2.4.1 the highest rate of flow (1)
2.4.2 greatest resistance to flow (1)
2.5 What conclusion(s) can be drawn for this experiment? (2)

Question 3

Study the figure below is a simplified illustration of a hydraulic lift. A1 has an area of 0,25 m2
and A2 is 1,75 m2.

55
 3.1 State Pascal’s law, in words. (2)
3.2 Which property of fluids allows them to be used in hydraulics to lift heavy loads? (1)
3.3 If a mass of 5 kg is placed on F1, calculate the output force F2 (3)
3.4 What mass must be placed on A1 so that the output force F2 is double the force calculated in
(3.3)? (3)
3.5 List and three uses of hydraulic lifts in technology. (3)

Question 4

The figure below shows a simple hydraulic lift. Study the diagram carefully and answer the
questions that follow.

4.1 NAME and STATE the principle on which this hydraulic lift operates. (3)

4.2 If an external force of 10 N is applied on the smaller piston of diameter 2 cm, determine
the maximum weight that can be lifted on the larger piston of diameter 12 cm. (3)

4.3 What property of fluids makes it possible for the hydraulic lift to operate? (1)

Question 5

Different motor oils are used for lubrication purposes and temperature has an effect on the
viscosity of motor oil. Study the figure below and answer the questions that follow.

56
5.1 Define the term viscosity. (2)

5.2 Briefly explain the meaning of the code “10W-40” as shown in the figure above. (2)

5.3 At a temperature above 40 degrees Celcius, how will the viscosity of this motor oil be
affected? (2)

57