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Physical Sciences Grade 11 Notes

Phisical Sciences (High School - South Africa)

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PHYSICAL SCIENCES
GRADE 11
NOTES

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Table of contents
1 Vectors in One Dimension – Revision 2

2 Vectors in Two Dimension 6

3 Solutions to Vectors activities 25

4 Newton’s Law’s and Application of Newton’s Laws 28

5 Newton’s Laws Activities 47

6 Solutions to Newton’s Laws Activities 60

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Vectors in One Dimension – Revision

Vector – physical quantity having magnitude and direction.

Scalar – physical quantity having magnitude only.

Examples:

Vector Scalar
Force Time
Energy
Weight Mass
Velocity Speed
Displacement Distance
Acceleration
Graphical Representation of a vector

 Vector is represented by an arrow

 The length of an arrow represents the size (magnitude) of the vector
 The arrow-head represents the direction of the vector.

Direction of a horizontal or vertical vector

A positive sign (+) or a negative sign (–) is used to indicate the direction of a vector
that are either horizontal or vertical. For each example you must select the sign.

Examples

a) right is + +5N

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b) left is – -3N

Three methods to describe the direction of a vector that is not horizontal or

vertical

On a graph

FA : 10 N at 30o above the positive x- axis (horizontal axis)

FB : 8 N at 12o left of the negative y- axis (vertical axis)
FC : 5 N at 65o above the negative x- axis (horizontal axis)
Bearing

 Only for vectors in the horizontal plane i.e parallel to the surface of
the Earth
 Use North as 0o and always measure clockwise

FA : 10 N on a bearing of 60o
FB : 8 N on a bearing of 192o
FC : 5 N on a bearing of 335o

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Compass (Cardinal points or directions)

FA : 10 N at 30o North of East

FB : 8 N at 12o West of South
FC : 5 N at 65o North of West

RESULTANT OF VECTORS

Define a resultant as the vector sum of two or more vectors, i.e. a single vector
having the same effect as two or more vectors together.

 Resultant vector is greatest when vectors are in the same directions

 Resultant vector is smallest when vectors are in the opposite directions

1. Two vectors acting in the same direction :( one dimension)

A girl walks 120m due East and then 230m in the same direction. What is her
resultant displacement?

By calculation:

Sign of direction: Take to East to be +

R = 120m + 230m = 350m East

By construction:

120 m East 230 m East

R = 350 m

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2. Two vectors acting in opposite direction (one dimension)

A boy walks 210m due East. He then turns and walk 60m due West. Determine his
resultant displacement.

By calculation: (taking East as positive)

R = 210m + (- 60m) = 150m East

210 m East

60 m West
R = 150 m

3. Multiple vectors acting in different directions (one dimension)

Determine the resultant(net) force when 8 N force acts to the right, a 10 N force
acts to the right, a 25 N force acts to the left and a 12 N force acts to the left

Let to the right be positive

𝐹𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 𝐹1 + 𝐹2 + 𝐹3 + 𝐹4

𝐹𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 8 + 10 + (−25) + (−12)

𝐹𝑛𝑒𝑡 = −19 𝑁

𝐹𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 19 𝑁 𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡

Fnet = 19 N left
F1 = 8 N right F2 = 10 N right

F4 = 12 N left F3 = 25 N left

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Vectors in Two Dimension

Resultant of perpendicular vectors

 Perpendicular vectors are at right angles to each other.

 A horizontal force of 30 N and a vertical force of 40 N that act on an object
are an example of two forces that are perpendicular to each other.
Diagram

FV = 40 N

FH = 30 N

Adding co-linear vectors

 Vectors that act in one dimension are called co-linear vectors

 The net x-component (Rx ) is the sum of the vectors parallel with the x-
direction: 𝑅𝑥 = 𝑅𝑥1 + 𝑅𝑥2
 The net y-component (Ry) is the sum of the vectors perpendicular to the x-
direction: 𝑅𝑦 = 𝑅𝑦1 + 𝑅𝑦2

Worked Example
Two forces of 3N and 2N apply an upward force to an object. At the same time two
forces each of 2N act horizontally to the right. Find the resultant force acting on the
object.
Step 1: Draw a diagram and calculate the net vertical and net horizontal forces

𝑅𝑦 = 𝑅𝑦1 + 𝑅𝑦2 3N

𝑅𝑦 = 2 + 3
𝑅𝑦 = 5 𝑁 𝑢𝑝𝑤𝑎𝑟𝑑𝑠 2N

2N 2N

𝑅𝑥 = 𝑅𝑥1 + 𝑅𝑥2
𝑅𝑥 = 2 + 2
𝑅𝑥 = 4 𝑁 𝑟𝑖𝑔𝑕𝑡

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Step 2: Graphical representation of Rx and Ry

Ry = 5

Rx = 4 N
Step 3: To find resultant (R) of the above vectors, one can using tail-to-tail
drawing of vectors

Tail to tail method or Parallelogram:

Note: When vectors are drawn tail-to-tail, a parallelogram must be completed in

order to determine their resultant.

R = 6,9N
Ry= 5 N

Rx= 4 N

 Phythagoras theorem is used to calculate the magnitude of the resultant.

 Considering the vector diagram above we can use Pythagoras theorem as
follows:
𝑅2 = 𝑅𝑥2 + 𝑅𝑦2
𝑅2 = 42 + 52

𝑅 = √42 + 52
𝑅 = 6.40 𝑁

 Use trigonometry to find the direction of the resultant as follows:

Ry 5
tanθ = =
Rx 4

∴ 𝜃 = 51,34°

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Worked Example:

A force of F1 = 5N is applied to a block in a horizontal direction. A second force F2 =

4N is applied to the object at an angle of 30⁰ above the horizontal. Determine the
resultant of the two forces, by accurate scale drawing.

Step 1: Draw rough sketches of the vector diagrams:

Note: Forces are NOT perpendicular

Step 2: Choose the suitable

scale. e.g 1cm : 1N

Step 3: Draw the first vector (F1) on the horizontal, according to the scale.

Step 4: Draw the second scaled vector (F2) 30⁰ above the horizontal.

Step 5: Complete the parallelogram and draw the diagonal (which is the
resultant)

Step 6: Use the protractor to measure the angle between the horizontal and the
resultant.

Step 7: Apply scale and convert the measured length to the actual magnitude.

The resultant is 8,7N, 13,3⁰ above the horizontal.

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GRAPHICAL DETERMINATION OF THE RESULTANT VECTOR

Tail-to-head method is used to find the resultant of two or more consecutive vectors
(vectors that are successive)

Steps to be followed:

 Choose the suitable scale e.g. 10mm : 10N

 Accurately draw the first vector as an arrow according to chosen scale and in
the correct direction
 Draw the second vector by placing the tail of the second vector at the tip of the
first vector { tail – to – head method}
 Complete the diagram by drawing the resultant from the tail of the first vector
to the head of the last vector.
 Make sure that you measure the angles correctly with a protractor.
 Always add arrow heads to vectors to indicate the direction.
 Measure the length and direction of the resultant vector.
Use the scale to determine the real magnitude of the resultant.

Worked Example 1:

A ship leaves a harbour H and sails 6km north to port A. From here the ship
travels 12 km east to port B, before sailing 5,5 km at 450 south-west to port C.

Determine the ship’s restaurant displacement using the tail-to-head technique.

Rough sketch:

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Using a scale 1cm : 2km, the accurate drawing of vectors is:

Measure the angle between the North line and the resultant with a protractor to
find that the direction of the resultant displacement:

Resultant displacement of the ship is 9,2 km on a bearing of 72, 3⁰.

Example 2:

A man walks 40m East, then 30m North. Use a scale of 1 cm: 10 m and
answer the following questions:

1. What was the total distance he walked?

2. Determine by construction his resultant displacement?
3. Calculate determine the direction of the resultant.
4. Calculate the magnitude of resultant displacement
Solutions:

1. Rough sketch

Total distance = 40m + 30m

= 70m

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2. Scale: 1cm : 10m

The resultant is 50m, 37⁰ from the horizontal

3. Tan Ф= 30
40

Ф=36,87⁰

4. R2 = x2 + y2
= 402 + 302

= 2500

R = 50m

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THE TRIANGLE RULE FOR FORCES IN EQUILIBRIUM

Closed vector diagram

 When drawing force vectors at equilibrium, a closed quadrilateral such as

triangle (closed vector diagram) will be obtained. In that case, the resultant
is zero and all vectors are drawn from head-to-tail.
 The forces F1, F2and F3 act on the same object and keep it in equilibrium so
that the object does not move, or continues moving with the constant
velocity. (No change in motion occurs).
 These three forces can be shifted to form a close triangle, where the sides
of the triangle still represent the magnitude and direction of the forces.
The triangle rule for forces in equilibrium is as follows:
When three forces acting at the point are in equilibrium, they can be
represented in both magnitude and direction by the three sides of a triangle
taken in order.
 The triangle is formed because the three forces are in equilibrium.
F1+F2+F3=0
For example: when the forces F1, F2 and F3 are in equilibrium, they can be
represented by a closed triangle as:

or

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RESOLUTION OF A VECTOR INTO ITS PARALLEL AND PERPENDICULAR

COMPONENTS

 The process of breaking down the vector quantity into its components that
are at right angles to each other is known as resolving a vector into its
components.

Worked Example

A force of 400N acts at an angle 600 to the horizontal.

Horizontal component: Vertical component:

adjacent opposite
cos θ = sin θ =
hypotenuse hypotenuse

Rx R𝑦
cos 60o = sin 60𝑜 =
400 N 400 N

Rx = 400N ∙ cos60o Ry = 400N ∙ sin60o

Rx = 200N Ry = 346,41N

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Finding resultant of vectors acting at angles (using component method)

Step 1: Find horizontal and vertical components of each force.

Components of F1: Components of F2: Components of F3:

Horizontal (Fx) Horizontal (Fx) Horizontal (Fx)

(Fx) = F1sinФ (Fx) = F2sinФ (Fx) = F3 cosФ

= 100 sin40⁰ = 80 sin30⁰ = 90 cos20⁰

= 64,28N (right) = 40N (right) = 84,57N (left)

Vertical (Fy) Vertical (Fy) Vertical (Fy)

(Fy) = F1 cosФ (Fy) = F2 cosФ (Fy) = F3 sinФ

= 100 cos40⁰ = 80 cos30⁰ = 90 sin20⁰

= 76,60N (up) = 69,28N (down) = 30,78N (down)

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Step 2: Hence, the new situation is:

Step 3:
Thus, the sum of horizontal components = 64,28+40+ (-84,57)
= 19,71N to the right

And the sum of vertical components = 69,28+30,78+ (-76,20)

= 23,46N downwards
Step 4:

The resultant of the two vectors (at right angles to each other) is:

R2 = Rx2 + Ry2
= 19,712+23,862
= 30,64N
tan Ф = 23,86/19,71

Ф = 50,47⁰
Thus, the resultant of the three forces is 30,95N in a bearing of 50,47⁰ from the
horizontal.

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QUESTION 1: MULTIPLE-CHOICE QUESTIONS

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 (1.1–1.10) in the ANSWER BOOK, for example 1.11 D.

1.1 Consider the following vector diagrams. Which ONE of these vector
diagrams represents a zero resultant?

A B

C D

1.2 If the resultant of two forces acting at a point is zero, the forces …

A are of equal magnitude and act perpendicular to each other.

B are of different magnitudes, but act in opposite directions.
C are of equal magnitude and act in the same direction.
D are of equal magnitude, but act in opposite directions.

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1.3 Two forces of magnitudes 3 N and 4 N respectively act on a body. The

maximum magnitude of the resultant of these forces is …

A 12 N.
B 7 N.
C 5 N.
D 1 N.

1.4 Three forces of magnitude 20 N each act on object P as shown below.

20 N

20 N
P

20 N

The resultant force on object P is …

A zero.
B 20 N to the left.
C 20 N upwards.
D 20 N downwards.

1.5 Two forces of magnitudes 15 N and 20 N act at a point on an object. Which

one of the following magnitudes CANNOT be the resultant of these forces?

A. 35 N
B. 10 N
C. 4N
D. 18 N

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1.6 Three forces, each of magnitude 7 N, act on object P as shown.

7N

7N 7N
P

The resultant force on object P is …

A zero.
B 7 N to the left.
C 7 N upwards.
D 7 N downwards.

1.7 Two forces of magnitude 50 N and 70 N respectively act on a body. The

maximum magnitude of the resultant force on the body is ...

A 20 N.
B 60 N.
C 120 N.
D 140 N.

1.8 Two forces of magnitudes 8 N and 6 N are added to each other.

Which of the following values CANNOT be a resultant of these two
forces?

A 2N
B 3N
C 14 N
D 16 N

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1.9 You can replace two forces, P and Q, with a single force of 7 N. If the
magnitude of force P is 3 N, which one of the following can be the
magnitude of force Q?

A 2N
B 3N
C 8N
D 13N

1.10 Consider the following vector diagram:

The vector which represents the resultant of the other two, is …

A. AB.
B. AC.
C. CB.
D. BA.

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STRUCTURED QUESTION
QUESTION 1
The diagram below shows TWO forces P and Q of magnitude 250 N and 150 N
respectively acting at a point R.

1.1 Calculate the horizontal and vertical components of vector P.

1.2 Calculate the vector sum of horizontal components of P and Q.

1.3 The vector sum of the vertical components of these forces is 129,45 N.

Using the vector sums of the horizontal and vertical components of P and Q,

draw a labeled force vector diagram to show the resultant force acting on

the point R.

1.4 Calculate the magnitude of the resultant of forces P and Q.

1.5 Calculate the direction (measured clockwise from the positive Y axis) of the

resultant of vectors P and Q.

1.6 If vector P was fixed but the direction of vector Q could be changed, for which

value of ϴ will the resultant force have a maximum value?

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QUESTION 2

Force vectors P and Q were drawn to scale on the Cartesian plane shown
below.

2.1. Define the term resultant of a vector.

2.2. From the graph, without using a scale drawing, CALCULATE the (no units
are required):

2.2.1 Magnitude of the horizontal component of vector P

2.2.2 Magnitude of the horizontal component of the resultant of vectors P

and Q

2.2.3 Magnitude of the vertical component of the resultant of vector P and

Q

2.2.4 Resultant of vectors P and Q.

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QUESTION 3

Three forces, F1, F2 and w, act on point O as shown in the diagram below.

F1 F2
80 N
58 N
60° O

w
3.1 Define the term resultant of forces.

3.2 By means of an accurate scale drawing, determine the vertical component

of F1. Use a scale where 10 N is represented by 10 mm.

3.3 The horizontal and vertical components of F2 are equal to 40 N and 42 N

respectively.

3.3.1 Prove with calculations that the horizontal components of the forces are in
equilibrium.

3.3.2 Calculate the magnitude and direction of force w.

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QUESTION 4

The diagram below shows a rope and pulley arrangement of a device being used to lift
an 800 N object. Assume that the ropes are light and inextensible and also that the pulley
is light and frictionless.

Deter mine the:

2.1 Magnitudes of the tensions T1 and T2

2.2 Magnitude and direction of the reaction force at pulley P

QUESTION 5
The diagram below shows a rope and pulley system of a device being used to lift a 122,5 kg
container upwards at a constant velocity. Assume that the ropes are light and inextensible
and the pulley is frictionless.

5.1 Calculate the weight of the container.

5.2 The system is moving upwards at a constant velocity as indicated above.

5.2.1 Draw a vector diagram of all forces acting on the container and indicate
the angles represented in the diagram.

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5.2.2 Determine the magnitudes of the forces T1 and T2.

5.3 The system is moving upwards at a constant velocity.

5.3.1 What does the statement above tell us about forces acting on the
container?

5.3.2 Which Newton’s law support your answer in QUESTION 5.3.1?

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Solutions to Vectors activities

QUESTION 1: MULTIPLE-CHOICE

1.1 C
1.2 D
1.3 B
1.4 B
1.5 C
1.6 C
1.7 C
1.8 D
1.9 D
1.10 B

STRUCTURED QUESTION

QUESTION 1:

1.1 FPX = FP . cosϴ

= 250 x cos 100 

= 246,20 N 

FPY = FP . sinϴ

= 250 x sin 100 

= 43,41 N

1.2 FQX = F cosϴ

= 150 cos350

= 122,87 N to the right 


FRx = FXp + FXQ

= -246 + 122,87 

= -123,13N

= 123,13 N to the left

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1.3 1.3

FR 
Fry = 129,45 N 




 

 
Frx = 123,13 N  


1.4 FR 2 = FRx 2 + FRy 2 

FR 2 = (123,13)2 + (129,45)2 

FR 2 = 15161 + 16757,30

FR 2 = 31918,30

FR = 178,66 N 

1.5 tan θ = FRx / FRy

θ = 123,13/ 129,45 tan-1 

θ = 43,570 

Direction = 360o – 43,57o = 316,43o

1.6 0o

QUESTION 2

2.1. The vector with same effect as all the vectors together.

2.2.1 2

2.2.2 RH = PH +QH = 2 + (-3) = -1

2.2.3 RV = PV +QV = 4 + 2 = 6

2.2.4 R2 = RH2 + RV2 = (-12) + 62 = 37

∴R = 6,08 

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

RH 1 
tan      0,17
RV 6  ∴θ = -9,65°

Φ = 360° - 9,65° = 350,35°


Resultant = 6,08 N; 350,35°

QUESTION 3

3.1. The vector with same effect as all the vectors together.

3.2 Scale 10 mm:10 N Up +

Fy = 69,2 N, 90° F1 = 80 N Fy = 69,2 N, 90°
Direction of F1 60° above x-axis 

Length of F1 80 mm 

Lines prependicular to the x- or y- 

axis from arrowhead of F1
Length of Fy between 66 mm < Fy < 
60° 72 mm
Fy between
(5) 
66 N, 90° < Fy < 72 N, 90°
3.3.1 To the right as positive: 

FxNET = F1x + F2x 
= F1 x cos 60°+ F2x


= - 80 x 0,5 + 40  
= - 40 + 40 

3.3.2 POSITIVE MARKING FROM QUESTION 3.2.

w = F1y + F2y
w = 69, 2 + (42) 
w = 111, 2 N; downwards

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Newton’s Law’s and Application of Newton’s Laws

Different kinds of forces:

Normal force (N) is the force or the component of a force exerted by the surface on an
object in contact with.

Normal force is always perpendicular to the surface irrespective of whether the plane is
horizontal or inclined.

Frictional force is the force that opposes the motion of an object and acts parallel to
the surface the object is in contact with.

Know that a frictional force is proportional to normal force and independent to area of
the surface that are in contact with each other

Static friction is the force that opposes the tendency of motion of a stationary object
relative to the surface.

Maximum static friction is the force which can overcome static friction and just cause an
object to slide.

Kinetic friction is the force that opposes the motion of a moving object relative to the
surface.

Gravitational force or weight ("g or w) is a force with which the earth attract an object
towards itself.

Applied forces (push or pull)

Tension ("FT or ") is the force that is transmitted through a rope, string or wire when
pulled by forces acting from opposite sides.

Objects exert push (repulsion) or pull (attraction) forces on each other.

A force can be classified as either a contact force or a non-contact force

Objects can exert a force on each other when they are in contact (touching each other)
e.g. friction and normal forces

OR

Objects can exert a force on each other when they are not in contact (i.e. are apart from
each other) e.g. magnetic, electrostatic and gravitational forces.

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The following equations are used to calculate maximum static friction (fsmax)
and kinetic friction:
fsmax = µsN
fk = µkN

 µs is coefficient of static friction

 µk is coefficient of kinetic friction
 µs and µk have no units
for an object to move, fk›fs

QUANTITY NAME QUANTITY UNIT NAME UNIT

SYMBOL SYMBOL

Maximum static fsmax Newton N

friction

Normal force N Newton N

Kinetic friction fk Newtons N

Net force Fnet Newton N

Mass m kilogram Kg

Acceleration a metres per m∙s-2

second squared

FN = mg
Fk = μk N
Fk = μk mg

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For a pulling force: For a pushing force:

FN + FY = W FN - FY = W
FN = W - FY FN = W + FY
Fk = μk N Fk = μ k N
Fk = μk (W - FY) Fk = μk (W +FY)
= μk( mg – Fa sin θ) = μk( mg +Fa sin θ )

EFFECT OF A CHANGING ANGLE

For a pulling force:
- When the angle is increased, the normal will decrease, hence the frictional force
will also decrease.
- When the angle is decreased, the normal force will increase, hence the frictional
force will also increase.
For a pushing force:
- When the angle is increased, the normal will increase, hence the frictional force
will also increase.
- When the angle is decreased, the normal force will decrease, hence the
frictional force will also decrease.
Any change made on an angle will affect the co-efficient of kinetic friction (μk)

FN = Fg┴
FN = mg cos θ
Fk = μk N
= μk (mg cos θ)

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EFFECT OF A CHANGING ANGLE

- When an angle is increased, the normal force will decrease, hence the
frictional force will also decrease.
- When an angle is decreased, the normal force will increase, hence the
frictional force will also increase.

Force diagrams and free body diagrams

A force diagram is a picture of the object(s) of interest with all the forces acting
on it (them) drawn in as arrows

How to draw a force diagram

 draw a picture of the object
 draw all arrows from the object outwards(the length of the arrow indicate the
magnitude of the force)

Examples:
1. A book is at rest on a tabletop. A force diagram for this situation looks like this:

2. A force is applied to the right to drag a crate across the floor with a rightward
acceleration. A force diagram for this situation looks like this:

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A free body diagram is a picture of an object of interest drawn as a dot and all the
forces acting on it are drawn as arrows pointing away from the dot (in a free body
diagram the object is represented by a dot)

Example
Step 1: A force is applied to the right to drag a crate across the floor with a
rightward acceleration. A free body diagram for this situation looks like this:

Step 2: The resultant or net force in the x-direction is a vector sum of all the
components in the x-direction and the resultant or net force in the y-direction is
a vector sum of all the components in the y-direction.

 Ax in the above diagram is resultant or net force in the x-direction.

 AY in the above diagram is resultant or net force in the y-direction.

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Resolving weight into its components

The following is a force diagram for a box of mass 50 kg at rest on an inclined plane.
The weight has been resolved to its x component (parallel to the plane) and y
components (vertical to the plane).

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NEWTON’S LAWS OF MOTION

Newton’s first law

A body will remain in its state of rest or motion at constant velocity unless a non-zero
resultant/net force acts on it.

 Inertia is the resistance of an object to any change in its state of motion. The
mass of an object is a quantitative measure of its inertia.

Application: The importance of wearing seatbelts:

 We wear seat belts in cars. Why?

 This is to protect us when the car is involved in an accident. If a car is travelling
at 120 km.h-1 (33.33m.s-1), the passengers in the car are also travelling at 120
km.h-1.(33.33m.s-1)
 When the car suddenly stops a force is exerted on the car (making it slow down),
but not on the passengers. The passengers will carry on moving forward at –
according 120 km.h-1 (33.33m.s-1) to Newton first law.
 If they are wearing seat belts, the seat belts will stop them and therefore prevent
them from getting hurt.

Newton’s second law

When a net force is applied to an object of a certain mass, 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.

Unit conversion:

1000g = 1kg

Examples
1. Determine the acceleration that result when a 12N net force is applied to a 3kg
object.
Fnet = ma
12 = 3a
a = 4 m∙s-2 in the direction of the force

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Examples of objects in equilibrium:

1. A girl is suspended motionless from the ceiling by two ropes. A force diagram for
this situation looks like this:

2.

a)

b)

 In the above diagrams there is no change in velocity. Thus no acceleration. We

call this equilibrium.
 The forces applied on the same object are equal in magnitude but acts in
opposite direction.

 At constant velocity, the acceleration is equal to zero, therefore Fnet = 0, since

the forces acting on an object are balanced.

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EXAMPLE 2
A learner constructs a push toy using two blocks with masses 1,5kg and 3kg
respectively. The blocks are connected by mass-less, inextensible cord.
The learners then applies the force 25N at an angle 30⁰ to the 1,5kg block by
means of a light rigid rod, causing the toy to move across a flat, rough, horizontal
surface, as shown in the diagram below.

The co-efficient of kinetic friction( μk) between the surface and each block is
0,15.
2.1 State Newton’s Second Law of Motion in words.

When a net/resultant force acts on an object, the object will accelerate to the
direction of the net force/ resultant force. The acceleration is directly
proportional to the net force and inversely proportional to the mass of an
object.

2.2 Calculate the magnitude of the kinetic frictional force acting on the 3kg block.

𝐹𝑘 = 𝜇𝑘𝑁

𝐹𝑘 = 𝜇𝑘𝑚𝑔

𝐹𝑘 = (0,15)(3)(9,8)

𝐹𝑘 = 4,41 𝑁

2.3 Draw a labelled free-body diagram

Without showing components of weight

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Showing components of weight

2.4 Calculate the magnitude of the :

2.4.1 Kinetic frictional force acting on the 1,5kg block.

Option 1

𝐹𝑘 = 𝜇𝑘𝑁

𝐹𝑘 = 𝜇𝑘 (25sin 30𝑜 + 𝑚𝑔)

𝐹𝑘 = (0,15)[(25 sin 30𝑜) + (1,5)(9,8)]

𝐹𝑘 = 4,08 𝑁

Option 2

𝐹𝑘 = 𝜇𝑘𝑁

𝐹𝑘 = 𝜇𝑘 (25cos 60𝑜 + 𝑚𝑔)

𝐹𝑘 = (0,15)[(25 cos 60𝑜) + (1,5)(9,8)]

𝐹𝑘 = 4,08 𝑁

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2.4.2 Tension in the cord connecting the two blocks

For the 1,5 kg block

𝐹𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 𝑚𝑎

𝐹𝑥 + (−𝑇) + (−𝑓𝑘) = 𝑚𝑎

(25 cos 30𝑜) − 𝑇 − 4,08 = (1,5)𝑎]

17,571- T = 1,5a ................. (1)

For the 3kg block

T – fk = 3a

T- 4,41 = 3a ................... (2)

(1) +(2)

13.161= 4,5a

a= 2,925m∙s-2

T = 13,19N

EXAMPLE 3
In the diagram below, a 2kg block is connected to a 1kg block by
means of alight inextensible string. The blocks are pulled up an
inclined plane, which form an angle of 28⁰ to the horizontal. The sides
of the blocks which touch

The kinetic frictional force between the 1kg block and the inclined
plane is 4N while the kinetic frictional force between the 2kg block and
the inclined plane is 8N.

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3.1.1 Draw a labelled free-body diagram sowing ALL forces acting on the
1kg block.
Free-body diagram:

Option 1 (without components)

Note:
 Use a dot
T  Lines must touch the dot
 All lines must have arrows
 Do not show components
together with the force

Option 2 (with components of weight)

Fg par = component of
FN / N FA weight parallel to slope

Fg par Fg perp = component of

T weight perpendicular t o
Ff Fg perp slope

3.1.2 Calculate the tension on the string connecting the blocks

Fnet =ma

30-( T+ mg Sin 28⁰ + fk) = ma

30- (T+(1)(9,9)(Sin28⁰) +4) = (1)a

21,399 – T = a ............................... (1)

For the 2kg block

Fnet =m

T-{(2)(9.8)(Sin28⁰)+4)}=2(a)

T-17,201=2a ..................... (2)

Substitute for T from equation (1)

(21,399-a)-17,2011 = 3a

a=1,4m∙s-2

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Substitute a=1,4m•s-2 in (1)

21,399 –T= (1,4)

T= 20N

3.1 In the diagram below, a 2 kg block is connected to a 1 kg block by means of

a light inextensible string. The blocks are pulled up an inclined plane, which
forms an angle of 28o to the horizontal. The sides of the blocks which touch
the inclined plane have the same area.

The kinetic frictional force between the 1 kg block and the inclined plane is 4
N while the frictional force between the 2 kg block and the inclined plane is 8
N

3.1.1 Draw a labelled free-body diagram showing All forces acting on the
1 kg block

3.1.2 Calculate the magnitude of the tension in the string connecting the
. blocks.

Ans. The two blocks are interchanged so that the SAME 30 N force is now
acting on the 2 kg block along the inclined plane, as shown in the
diagram below.

Fnet = ma
30 − (T + mg sin 28o + fk) = ma
30 − (T + (1)(9,8)(sin 28o) + 4) = (1)a
21,399 − T = a......................(1)

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For the 2 kg block

Fnet = ma 21,399 − T = a ..................... (1)
T − (mgSin 28o + fk) = ma T − 17,201 = 2a ................ (2)
T − [((2)(9,8)(sin 28o) + 8)] T − 17,201 = 2(21,399 − T)
= (2)a T = 20 N
T − 17,201 = 2a...................... (2)

Substitute for T from equation (1)

(21,399 − a) − 17,201 = 3a
4,198 = 3a
a = 1,4 m ∙ s− 2
From (1) From (2)
T = 21,399 − a T = 17,201 + 2(1,399)
T = 21,399 − 1,399 T = 20 N
T = 20 N
3.1.3 How will the acceleration of the system change? Write down only
INCREASE, DECREASE or REMAIN THE SAME

Remain the same

3.1.4 How will the acceleration of the system change? Write down only
INCREASE, DECREASE or REMAIN THE SAME

Remain the same

3.2. In the diagram below, a 1 kg mass and a 2 kg mass are connected by an

inextensible string of negligible mass. The string is passed over a light
frictionless pulley so that the masses hang down as shown. Initially the
system is held stationary

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3.2.1 Draw a labelled free-body diagram showing ALL the forces acting on
the 2 kg mass.

3.2.2 Calculate the time it will take the 1 kg mass to move a distance of 1 m
when the system is released.

SOLUTIONS
3.1.3 Remains the same
3.1.4 Remains the same
3.2.1
3.2.2

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Newton’s third law of motion

 When object A exerts a force on object B, object B SIMULTANEOUSLY
exerts an oppositely directed force of equal magnitude on object A. (The
forces are therefore an interaction between two bodies.)

Identification of action-reaction pairs:

Scenario 1:
You are given a vase resting on a table, as shown below.

(a) Identify all the actionreaction forces for the vase.

(b) Identify all the actionreaction forces for the table.

Note:
A vase on the table exerts a force, (W = mg) on the table downwards, and the table
exerts equal but upwards force on the vase. It is important to note that whilst the two
forces are equal in magnitude and opposite in direction, they cannot cancel
since they do not act on the same object.

Scenario 2:

A donkey is pulling a cart along a road (as shown above). We know from Newton’s
third law that the force exerted by the donkey on the cart is equal and opposite to the
force exerted by the cart on the donkey.

Which force/forces cause the motion here (above sketch)?

Further applications of Newton’s third law

i) When swimming, the swimmer pushes the water backwards with his/her
hands, and the water then pushes the swimmer forward.

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ii) When a person walks, his legs and toe muscles exert a force on the floor in
a slanted, downward direction. The floor exerts an equal but opposite force,
which pushes the person forward.
iii) Space rockets are propelled by recoil. The rapidly expanding gases which
escape from the combustion chamber experiences a downward force, this
escaping gas will then exert an equal force, which pushes the rocket
upwards.

Properties of action-reaction pairs

 They act simultaneously.
 They act on different objects.
 They are equal in magnitude.
 They act in opposite directions.

Newton’s law of Universal Gravitation

Every particle in the universe attracts every other particle with a gravitational force
which is directly proportional to the product of their masses and inversely proportional
to the square of the distance between them.
In a form of an equation, the law is written as:

F = Gm1m2
d2

QUANTITY NAME QUANTITY UNIT NAME UNIT SYMBOL

SYMBOL

Force F Newton N

Gravitational G Newton metre Nm2kg-2

constant squared per
kilogram squared

Mass m kilogram kg

Distance d metres m

Weight
Weight is the gravitational force the earth exerts on any object on or near its surface.

Weight can be calculated using the formula: W = mg

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QUANTITY NAME QUANTITY UNIT NAME UNIT

SYMBOL SYMBOL

Weight W Newton N
Mass M kilogram kg
Gravitational acceleration G Metres per second ms-2
squared

The value of g is 9.8 ms-2

Acceleration due to gravity on earth can be calculated using the formula

gearth = GMearth
r2

F = mg = GmM
r2

(Mearth = 5.97219x1024kg, radiusearth = 6 378.1km)

Note: The same formula can be used to calculate g on any planet using the
appropriate planetary data. Weight is force and therefore a vector quantity and mass
is a scalar quantity.

Weight is measured in Newtons and mass is measured in kilograms.

EXAMPLE

1.1

1.2

1.3

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SOLUTIONS
1.1

1.2

1.3

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Newton’s Laws Activities

Activity 1

A 5 kg mass is suspended by a rope. A horizontally directed force F is applied to

the mass.

The magnitude of force is needed to produce an angle of 65o is N.

A. 21
B. 23
C. 44
D. 110

Activity 2

2 A motorist is travelling at 30 m·s-1 when he sees a tree lying across his

path.
He brakes suddenly and the car comes to rest in 3,3 s.

2.1 Explain what happens to the driver in the car.

2.2 Name and state the law used to explain this

phenomenon.

Activity 3

3 A car tows a trolley with the aid of a strong cable over a flat surfaced road.
The system is accelerated at a rate of 4ms-2. The trolley experiences a
frictional force of 1N.

M2 = 880 kg m1 = 900 kg

3.1 . Draw all the forces acting on the trolley and name
them.

3.2 Determine the tension (T) in the cable

3.3 How will the magnitude of T be affected if the

friction on the trolley is increased?

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Activity 4

Learners are given the task of determining the relationship between the
acceleration produced and the mass of a body. The learners then completed the
above task and obtained the following results:

Mass of trolleys Acceleration

(kg)
(m.s-2)

1 0,96

2 0,49

3 0,31

4.1 In order to make the relationship between acceleration and

mass more obvious, one would prefer a straight line graph.
Draw the graph showing all working on how
4.2 1 the
values were obtained. a vs
m
4.3 Determine the gradient of the graph.
4.4 What physical quantity does the gradient of the graph
represent?

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Activity 5

5.1 Two science learners, Steve and Charles, are doing experiments to verify
Newton’s Second Law. They accelerate a trolley, attached to a ticker timer and a
ticker tape, along a horizontal surface. They measure the accelerating force by
means of a spring balance, which they have attached to the trolley. They do
several runs with the trolley, each time increasing the applied force. They record
their results:

Ticker timer
Trolley

FORCE (N) ACCELERATION (m∙s-2)

5 0,600

4 0,455

3 0,315

2 0,175

1 0,035

5.1.1 Use their results and plot a graph of Force versus Acceleration.

5.1.2 Explain the position of the intercept of the graph on the x-axis.

5.1.3 Use the graph to determine the mass of the trolley.

5.1.4 If the experiment was repeated by using the same trolley on a

much smoother surface, how would a graph obtained from such
an experiment differ from the graph obtained from the experiment
done by Steve and Charles?

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5.2 A little boy plays with his toy train. He ties the engine to the first truck of the train,
using a piece of string. He ties a second piece of string to the engine. He pulls the
train to the right on a horizontal surface, with a force of 10 N.

The masses of the engine and the truck are 1,8 kg and 1,4 kg respectively.

Frictional force of 2,4 N acts between the engine and the surface and a frictional
force of 1,2 N acts between the truck and the surface.

14 N 18 N

10N

1,2N 2,4N

14N 18N

5.2.1 Draw two separate, labelled free-body diagrams, indicating all the
forces acting on the truck and on the engine.

5.2.2 Calculate the acceleration of the train

5.2.3 Calculate the force that the engine exerts on the truck.

5.2.4 Calculate the coefficient of static friction for the engine on the surface.

5.3 A force F acts on a body and the body accelerates. If the mass of the body is
doubled and the force is halved, how would the acceleration of the body be
affected? Write down ONLY increased, decreased or remain the same.

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ACTIVITY 6

6.1

6.2

6.3
6.3.1

6.3.2

6.3.3

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ACTIVITY 7
7.1

7.1.1

7.1.2
7.1.3
7.1.4
ACTIVITY 8
8.1 A space capsule of mass 300 kg lands on a planet that has a mass
twice that of Earth, and a radius three times that of Earth.
Calculate the weight of the space capsule on this planet.
8.2

sun Eart
h

The mass of the moon is 7.4 x 1021 kg. The mass of the sun is 1.98 x1030 kg.
The centre of the moon is an average distance of 3.8 x108 m from the surface of
the Earth

8.2.1 State Newton’s Law of Universal Gravitation.

8.2.2 Calculate the magnitude of the gravitational force that the moon
would exert on the bucket of water of 10kg on Earth.

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ACTIVITY 9
9.1 Two asteroids, X and Y, are in outer space. Their centres are p metres
apart. Each has a mass of m kg. A gravitational force F exists between X
and Y.
X Y
(m kg) (m kg)

p metres

By what factor would F change when:

i) the mass of X is doubled; and then

ii) the distance between X and Y is decreased to ⅓ of the original?
9.2 The sun exerts an average force of 3,57 × 1022 N on the earth.
9.2.1 What force does the earth exert on the sun?
9.2.2 Calculate the mass of the sun. Take the mass of the earth as 6
×1024 kg and the average distance between the centre of the earth
and the sun as 1,5 × 108 km
9.3 A learner makes the following statement:

Two rocks fall from the same height above the earth. The first rock has
twice the mass of the second rock. The first rock will fall with double
the acceleration of the second rock.

 Evaluate this statement.

 Is it true or false?
 Explain your answer.
 Include a formula derived from Newton’s Laws, to prove your answer.

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ACTIVITIES
QUESTION 1
A 4 kg block B, resting on a flat, rough horizontal table, is connected by a light
inextensible string to a 6 kg block A. The string is passed over a light frictionless
pulley in such a way that block A hangs vertically downwards as shown in the
diagram below.

1.1 Write down Newton’s Second Law of motion in words.

1.2 Draw a free-body diagram of all forces acting on block B.
1.3 The kinetic frictional force experienced by block B is 32,53 N to the
left.
Calculate the magnitude of the acceleration.
1.4 Calculate the coefficient of kinetic friction between the surface of the
table and
block B.
1.5 How will the frictional force on the block be affected if the 4 kg block
is pulled at
an angle of 30° to the horizontal?
Write down INCREASE; DECREASE or REMAIN THE SAME.
Explain your answer.

QUESTION 2 (FREE STATE PRELIM 2016)

A 5 kg block, resting on a rough horizontal surface, is connected by a light inextensible

string passing over a light frictionless pulley to a second block of mass 3 kg hanging
vertically.
An applied force F is acting on the 5 kg block as shown in the diagram below and the
coefficient of kinetic friction between the 5 kg block and the surface is 0,2.
The 5 kg block accelerates to the left.

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2.1 Define the term frictional force.

2.2 Calculate the magnitude of the:
2.2.1 Vertical component of F if the magnitude of the horizontal component
of F equals 38 N

2.2.2 Normal force acting on the 5 kg block

2.3 State Newton’s Second Law of motion.

2.4 Draw a labeled free-body diagram to indicate all the forces acting on
the 3 kg
block.
2.5 Calculate the magnitude of the tension in the string connecting the
two
blocks.

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QUESTION 3

Block X of mass 4 kg is connected to block Y of mass 8 kg by a light, inextensible

string. Another light, inextensible string attached to block X runs over a frictionless
pulley. The system is pulled by means of a constant force of 180 N as shown in the
diagram below. Ignore the effects of air resistance.

3.1 State Newton's second law of motion in words.

3.2 Draw alabelled free body diagram showing ALL the forces acting on
object X. Calculate the:

3.2.1 tension T in the string connecting the two blocks.

3.2.2 magnitude of the acceleration of block X.
QUESTION 4

4.1 Write down Newton’s Second Law in words.

4.2 A block of mass 12 kg resting on a rough horizontal table is connected by a light
inextensible string which passes over a frictionless pulley to another block of
mass 7,5 kg. The 7,5 kg block hangs vertically as shown in the diagram below.
A force of magnitude F is applied to the 12 kg block at angle of 30 0 to the
horizontal to prevent the blocks from moving.

The maximum co-efficient of static friction( μs ), between the 12 kg block and the
surface of the table is 0,45. Ignore the effects of air friction.

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4.2.1 Calculate the tension, T, in the string.

4.2.2 Calculate the minimum value of F that will prevent the blocks
from moving.
4.3 A satellite of mass 650 kg is in orbit around the Earth. The Earth
exerts a force of magnitude 6346,07 N on the satellite. Calculate
the height, in kilometres, of the satellite above the surface of the
Earth.

QUESTION 5

A man applies a constant pulling force on a heavy parcel of mass 50 kg using a light
inextensible rope which passes over a light frictionless pulley as shown in the diagram
below. The coefficient of static friction between the parcel and the rough table surface is
0,34. The magnitude of the maximum static frictional force is 120 N. Ignore the mass of
the rope.

5.1 Draw a free-body diagram showing all forces exerted on the parcel.
5.2 State, in words, Newton’s Second Law of Motion.
5.3 When the static frictional force is at its maximum, show that the magnitude
of the vertical component of the tension force in the rope is 137,06 N.
5.4 Hence, determine the angle (Ɵ ) that the rope forms with the horizontal as
well as the magnitude of the tension force in the rope (T).
5.5 The man now increases the magnitude of his pulling force. Under the action
of
this new constant force, the parcel begins to slide horizontally along the
table.
5.5.1 How will the magnitude of the normal force change as the parcel
slides across the table surface? State only INCREASES,
DECREASES or REMAINS THE SAME.
5.5.2 Give a reason for your answer to QUESTION 5.5.1.

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QUESTION 6

A block Q of mass 70 kg is at rest on a table. It is connected to block P by means of

two light inextensible strings knotted at S. A third string is arranged in such a way
that the string connecting block Q is horizontal as shown in the diagram below.
The coefficient of static friction between block Q and the surface of the table is 0,25.
The knot S is in equilibrium.

The tension in the string connecting block Q is T2 and that for the string that pulls at
35O is T1 as shown in the diagram.

6.1 Define the term static frictional force in words.

6.2 Explain what is meant by the knot S is in equilibrium.
6.3 Draw a labelled free-body diagram to show all the forces acting on:
6.3.1 The knot at S
6.3.2 Block Q
6.4 Calculate the maximum weight of block P for which block Q will just begin
to slip.

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QUESTION 7

In the diagram below, a 1 kg mass on a rough horizontal surface is joined to a 2 kg

mass by a light, inextensible string running over a frictionless pulley. The coefficient of
kinetic friction between the 1 kg mass and the surface is 0,13.

7.1 State Newton's second law of motion in words.

7.2 Calculate the magnitude of the:
7.2.1 Kinetic frictional force acting on the 1 kg mass
7.2.2 Acceleration of the 1 kg mass

The rough horizontal surface is now replaced with a smooth frictionless surface. The 2
kg mass is again released and strikes the ground before the 1 kg mass reaches the end
of the horizontal surface.

7.3 Will the 1 kg mass move at a LOWER, a HIGHER or a ZERO

ACCELERATION?
Briefly explain the answer by referring to Newton's laws of motion.

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Solutions to Newton’s Laws Activities

QUESTION 1
1.1 When a resultant/net force acts on an object, the object will accelerate in the
direction of the force at an acceleration that is directly proportional to the
force and inversely proportional to the mass of the object.

1.2

1.3 On 6 kg:
Fnet = ma
Fg + (-T) = ma
(6 × 9,8) – T = 6 × a
58,8 – T = 6a
T = 58,8 – 6a (1)
On4 kg:
Fnet = ma any one
(-f) + T = ma
(-32,53) + T = 4 × a T
= 32,53 + 4a (2)
(1) - (2): 0 = (58,8 – 6a) – (32,53 + 4a)
a = 2,63 m∙s-2
1.4 Positive marking from QUESTION 2.3
fk = fk N any one
fk = k mg
32,53 = μk × 4 × 9,8
μk = 0,83
1.5 DECREASE
At an angle of 30° the tension force will have a component in the vertical
direction and the block will be slightly lifted up. The normal will decrease and
friction is directly proportional normal.

QUESTION 2
2.1 It is the force that opposes the motion of an object and which acts

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parallel to the surface

2.2.1
tan 200 =FV/FH
FV = (tan 200)(38) 
= 13,83 N

2.2.2 FN = Fg - Fv
= (5)(9,8) - 13,83 
= 35,17 N

2.3 When a resultant force acts on an object the object will accelerate in
the direction of the force at acceleration directly proportional to the
force and inversely proportional to the mass of the object.

2.4

2.5 Option 1
Left/upwards as positive:
5 kg block: Fnet = ma 
-T + FH - f = ma
-T + 38 - (0,2)(35,17) = 5a (1)
3 kg block : -Fg + T = ma
-(3)(9,8) + T = 3a (2)
Substitute 2 into 1:
a = 0,196 m·s-2
Substitute a into 2:
-29,4 + T = (3)(0,196) 
T = 29,99 N 

2.5 Option 2
Right/downwards as positive:
5 kg block: Fnet = ma 
T - FH + f = ma
T - 38 + (0,2)(35,17) = -5a (1)
3 kg block : Fg - T = ma
(3)(9,8) - T = -3a (2)
Substitute 2 into 1:
a = 0,196 m·s-2

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Substitute a into 2:
29,4 - T = -(3)(0,196) 
T = 29,99 N

QUESTION 3
3.1 When a resultant/net force acts on an object, the object accelerates in the
direction of the (net) force at an acceleration directly proportional to the force and
inversely proportional to the mass of the object. 


3.2.

3.3
3.3.1
For block X
Fnet = ma 
180 - w – T = ma
180 - (4)(9,8) – T = 4a 
140,8 – T = 4a .........................(i)
For block Y:
Fnet = ma
T - w = ma
T - (8)(9,8) = 8a 
-78,4 +T = 8a .........................(ii)
281,6 – 2T = 8a
-78,4 + T = 8a
360 – 3T = 0
T = 120 N
T = 120 N upwards 
Note:
• If the system approach is used to first calculate acceleration and then acceleration
is substituted to obtain T:
Max. 2/4
3.3.2
POSITIVE MARKING FROM QUESTION 3.3.1

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OPTION 1
-78,4 +T = 8a
-78,4 + 120 = 8a 
a = 5,2 m∙s-2
OPTION 2
140,8 – T = 4a
140,8 – 120 = 4a 
a = 5,2 m∙s-2
OPTION 3
281,6 -2T = 8a
281,6 + 220 = 8a 
a = 5,2 m∙s-2

QUESTION 4
4.1 When a resultant/net force acts on an object, the object will accelerate in the
direction of the force. This acceleration is directly proportional to the net force
and inversely proportional to the mass of the object.

4.2.1 For the 7,5 kg mass

T - Fg = ma
T - (7,5)(9,8) = 0
T = 73,5 N

4.2.2 For the 12 kg mass

F cos300 + ff - T = ma
0,866 F + μsN - 73,5 = 0 
0,866 F + 0,45(12)(9,8) - (0,45)F
sin300 - 73,5 = 0
0,64 F + 52,92 - 73,5 = 0
F = 32,16 N 
(accept range: 32,106 – 32,16)

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4.3 F= Gm1m2
r2 
6346,07 = 6,67 x 10-11 x 5,98 x 1024 x 650
(R+ h)2 
R + h = 6391720,24 m
h= 6391720,24 – 6,38 x 106
=11720,24m
=11,72 km (Range: 10,00km – 11,72 km)

QUESTION 5
5.1

5.2 When a resultant (net) force acts on an object, the object will accelerate in the
direction of the force. This acceleration is directly proportional to the force and
inversely proportional to the mass of the object.

5.3 fs max = µs N
120= (0,34) N
N= 352,9412 N
Vertical forces; taking up as positive
Fnet y = 0
Ty + FN + Fg=0 
Ty + FN – mg = 0
Ty + 352,9412 – (50)(9,8) =0
Ty= 137,06 N ............. (A)

5.4 Horizontal forces; taking left as positive

Fnet x = 0
Tx + fs max =0 
Tx-120= 0
TX =120 N .......................... (B)
(A)/(B) :

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tanθ = 137,06
120
= 1,14215
θ= 48,80° 

Sub into (B) OR sub into (A)
T cos 48,8° =120
T= 182,18 N 
OR
T sin(48,8°) = 137,06
T = 182,16 N

5.5.1 DECREASES

5.5.2 From: Ty = T sin θ. The angle (θ) increases, so the vertical component of the
tensional force (Ty) will increase . OR
From: FN + Ty = Fg
θ increases/ Ty increases 
The parcel will not push as hard into the table surface , so the normal force will
decrease in magnitude.

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QUESTION 6

6.1 When a resultant/net force acts on an object, the object will accelerate in the
direction of the force. This acceleration is directly proportional to the force and
inversely proportional to the mass of the object.

6.2 Remains the same

6.3 6.3

6.4 6.4
6.4.1 Up the incline as positive:

Fnet = ma
FT + fk + w// = ma
FT + μkN + wsin30° = ma
FT + μkmgcos30° + mgsin30° = ma Any one
FT – (0,2)(6)(9,8)cos30° - (6)(9,8)sin30° = (6)(4) 
∴FT = 63,58 N

6.4.2 Up the incline as positive:

Fnet = ma
F + fk(6 kg) + fk(3 kg) + w// = ma
F + μkN(6 kg) + μkN(3 kg) + mgsin30° = ma
F – (0,2)(6)(9,8)cos30° - (0,1)(3)(9,8)cos30° - (9)(9,8)sin30° = 0 
∴F = 56,83 N

6.5 Decreases

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QUESTION 7

7.1 When a resultant force acts on an object, the object accelerates in the direction
of the force. This acceleration is directly proportional to the force and inversely
proportional to the mass of the object.
7.2

7.2.1 fk= µkN 

= (0,13)(1)(9,8) 
= 1,27 N

7.2.2 For the 2 kg mass (to the right/downwards as positive):

Fnet = ma 
w + FT = ma
(2)(9,8) + FT = 2a
FT = 2a – 19,6
For the 1 kg mass (to the right as positive):
Fnet = ma
FT + f = ma
-(2a – 19,6) + (- 1,27) = 1a FT(1 kg) = -FT(2 kg)
∴ a = 6,11 m·s -2

7.3 Zero acceleration.

Fnet on the 1 kg mass is zero. 
According to Newton's second law of motion, its acceleration will be zero. According
to Newton's first law of motion, it will continue to move at constant velocity (until it
reaches the edge of the surface).

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