SOLVED PROBLEMS IN

PHYSICS VOLUME – 1

S.L. SRIVASTAVA
M.Sc., Ph.D.
Prof. Of Physics
D.D.U. Gorakhpur University
Gorakhpur
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 PREFACE
While teaching various courses in physics to the B.Sc. and M.Sc.
students over the last thirty-seven years, it has been my experience that
a large number of students do not have a clear understanding of the
basic concepts of the subject. A slight deviation from what had been
taught to them is generally beyond the grasp of average students. It is
my firm belief that solving numerical problems can go a long way in
aiding comprehension of the underlying basic principles of physics
provided that these are suitably designed and properly arranged. It has
been my endeavour to fulfil these requirements.

In our country, Intermediate Science (+2 level) is the minimum

qualification for appearing in the entrance examinations to different
courses in engineering and medical institutions. The minimum
qualification for those appearing in civil services examination is
graduation and for those appearing in the national eligibility test is a
master degree from a recognised University. Students appearing in these
examinations will find this book particularly useful. It offers more than
two thousand solved problems with complete solutions in a very lucid
style and has been written keeping in mind the special needs of aspiring
students. It is hoped that the book will also be very useful for those
students who seek to make career in the fields of medicine, engineering,
biology and earth science. I will consider my efforts amply rewarded if
the book is able to instil in the students a sense of confidence and
inspiration for these examinations.

S.L. SRIVASTAVA
 CONTENTS

Preface v

Volume 1
1. Kinematics in One and Two Dimensions 1
2. Particle Dynamics 39
3. Circular Motion and Gravitation 104
4. Collision and Rigid Body Rotation 184
5. Fluid Pressure and Buoyancy 313
6. Elasticity 333
7. Simple Harmonic Motion 366
8. Surface Tension and Flow of Liquids 466
9. Sound 525

Volume 2
10. Heat 583
11. Electrostatics 711
12. Simple Circuit and Electrolysis 822
13. Electromagnetism 882
14. Electromagnetic Induction and Alternating Current 939
15. Optics 1012
16. Atomic Physics 1142
17. Valve and Semiconductor 1267
 1
KINEMATICS IN ONE AND TWO DIMENSIONS

1.1. A man walks 15 km north and then 14.1 km south-east. What is his
resultant displacement from the origin?
y axis
Solution: Let us represent the
displacement along the x axis and
N
y axis, keeping the x axis to the east
and y axis to the north as shown in
Fig. 1.1. For the first part of the y1
journey the displacement is along W E x axis
the positive side of the y axis and is
given y1 = 15 km.
For the second part of the
journey the displacement 14.1 km S
has two components. Fig. 1.1
The x component of the displacement is
1 14.1
14.1 cos 45 = 14.1 × = = 10 km
2 1.41
The y component of the displacement is
1
– 14.1 sin 45 = – 14.1 × = – 10 km
2
Net displacement along x axis = 10 km
Net displacement along y axis = 15 – 10 = 5 km
Resultant displacement = 100 25 = 5 5 km
1.2. Two objects are approaching a point O as 2 V
shown in Fig. 1.2 with equal velocities V. O
Determine the relative velocity of one with
respect to the other.
V
Solution: In Fig. 1.2 the two velocities are with
1
respect to the earth. If we assume that object
2 is at rest, then the earth moves with a
Fig. 1.2
2 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

velocity V towards object 2. Now the velocity of object 1 with respect to

the earth + velocity of the earth with respect to object 2 will be equal to
the velocity of object 1 with respect to object 2, i.e.
V12 = V – V
Thus the velocity of object 1 with respect to object 2 is equal to
difference in their velocities with respect to the earth. The speed is worked
out as
V12 = V2 V 2 = 2V
1.3. An object covers distance AB in the following manner. Half of the
distance AB, viz. AB/2 = AC, is covered with velocity v0. Of the remaining
half, distance CD is covered with velocity v1 for half of the time and DB
with velocity v2 for the other half of the time. Find the mean velocity of
the object.
Solution: Let the total distance AB shown in Fig. 1.3 be equal to x. AC will
now be equal to x/2.
x
Time taken to cover distance AC = A C D B
2v0
Fig. 1.3
CD
Time taken to cover distance CD =
v1
DB
Time taken to cover the distance DB =
v2
CD DB x
Now in view of the problem, = and CD + DB =
v1 v2 2
Total distance covered = x
x
 Mean velocity =
x CD DB
2v0 v1 v2

x CD DB
= since =
x 2CD v1 v2
2v0 v1

x
=
x xv1 1
2v0 v1 v2 v1

2v0 (v1 v2 )
=
v1 v2 2v0
KINEMATICS IN ONE AND TWO DIMENSIONS 3
1.4. The velocity time graph of a particle is a parabola as shown in the
Fig. 1.4. The maximum value of velocity is equal to V. Calculate the distance
T
covered by the particle in time .
2
Solution: The velocity of the particle is given by the equation.
4V T  v
v = 2 t  t
T 2 
4
dx 16V T
or = ·t t2
dt T2 2
v
16V  T 
T T
S 2 2

0 dx = T 2  2  tdt   t 2 dt 
 o t
 0 0
 T/2

16 V T 3 T 3 Fig. 1.4
S =
T2 16 24
TV
S =
3
1.5. A particle of mass m moves linearly under the action of a time varying
force. The force time diagram is a parabola as shown in the Fig. 1.5. The
maximum value of the force is equal to X. Calculate the displacement of
the particle in time T.
Force

Solution: The force F acting on the

particle is given by
4X
F = 2 t (T – t)
T x
4X
acceleration a = t (T  t )
mT 2 time
2 3
T
4X t t
velocity v = 2
T· Fig. 1.5
mT 2 3

4X T 1 3 
S T T

 
 dx = 3 0
· t 2
dt  t dt 
0
mT 2  2 0 
4X T4 T4
S =
mT 2 6 12
XT 2
S =
3m
1.6. Two bodies P & Q connected through light rigid rod of length L are
placed as shown in the Fig. 1.6. Body P moves toward O with a constant
speed v. Find the velocity of Q.
4 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution: Let the position of P and Q from O be X and Y respectively. Let P

moves through dx then the displacement of Q is obtained by the relation.
L2 – (X – dx)2 = (Y + dy)2 y axis

L – X + 2Xdx = Y + 2Y · dy
2 2 2

or X · dx = Y · dy
X dx dy
or = = v' Q
Y dt dt L
or v' = v cot 30
 = 30°
x axis
= v· 3 O
P
= 1.732 v Fig. 1.6
1.7. A point moves in the xy plane according to the equation x = t and
y = t (1 – t) where  and  are positive constant. Find (i) the equation
of the trajectory (ii) the velocity and acceleration of the particle at an
instant t.
Solution:
 x 
(i) y = x 1  
  

= x – · x2

  2  
=– x   ·x
  

   
2
2 
=–  x    
  2  42 

    
2
  
 y   =–   x   
 4    2  
This is the equation of parabola with concavity downward and
   
vertex at  , 
 2 4 
dx dy
(ii) = vx = , =  – 2 t = vy
dt dt
v 2y =  1  1  2 t 
2
v = v x2

d2x d2 y
2 = ax = 0, = ay = – 2
dt dt 2
a = ax2 a 2y = 2
KINEMATICS IN ONE AND TWO DIMENSIONS 5
1.8. A particle is moving in a plane with velocity given by u = u0i + (a
cos t) j, where i and j are unit vectors along x and y axes respectively. If
particle is at the origin at t = 0. (a) Calculate the trajectory of the particle.
3
(b) Find the distance from the origin at time .
2
Solution:
dx
(a) vx = = u0
dt
 x = u0 dt = u0t
dy
vy = = a cos t
dt
y =  a cos t dt = a sin t
Path of the particle is given by
·x
y = a sin
u0
3
(b) At t =
2
3
x = u0 ·
2
3
y = a sin  · =–a
2
 Distance of the particle from the origin = x2 y2
1
  3 u0   2
2

= a    
2

  2   
1.9. Starting from the point O along the road OA a person is interested to
reach to the point B located in the field at a distance l from A by scooter in
the shortest time. The speed of the scooter in the field reduces  times
that on the road. Calculate the distance of the point C (see Fig. 1.7) from A
at which he will leave the road in order to reach to the point B.
Solution: Let OC = x
x
time t1 for the part OC =
v
v = velocity of the scooter on the road
2 
time t2 for the part CB = OA x l2 ·
v
6 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

O C A
x   · (OA  x)2  l 2
total time t = x
v
l
dt 1    2(OA  x )   1 
Now =0= 1  
dx v  2 (OA  x )2  l 2 
  B
 (OA  x ) Fig. 1.7
or 1=
(OA  x )2  l 2
or AC 2 + l 2 = 2 · AC 2
l
or AC =
 1
2

1.10. A ship goes from A to B at v 1 = 10 km/hr and from B to A at

v2 = 16 km/hr. Find (i) The average velocity of the ship (ii) the velocity of
the river current.
Solution:
(i) Let x be the distance between A and B.
Time for the entire path (up and down journey)
x x 13 18x
t = + =
10 5 16 5 400
18 18
2 x 400
Average velocity = = 3.42 m/sec
13 18x
5 5
(ii) 10 × + u = 16 × –u
18 18
5
2u =
3
5
u = = 0.83 m/sec
6
1.11. A boat moves perpendicular to the bank with velocity of 7.2 km/hr
(2 m/sec). The current carries it 150 m down stream. Find (i) the velocity
of the current (ii) the time required to cross the river. The river is 0.5 km
wide.
u 150
Solution: tan  = =
2 500
u = 0.6 m/sec
500
t = = 250 sec
2
Fig. 1.8
KINEMATICS IN ONE AND TWO DIMENSIONS 7
1.12. A ship is moving towards east with a velocity v0. Wind blows at an
angle  to the east in the south-east direction with a velocity v. Find (i) the
wind velocity relative to the ship (ii) the wind direction in the frame of
reference of the ship. N
Solution: (i) Let v' be the wind velocity
relative to the ship see Fig. 1.9.
v' cos ' = v0 + v cos  W v0
  E
v' sin ' = v sin 

v0  v cos  
2 v
v' =  v 2 sin 2 
v
v sin  S
(ii) tan ' =
v0  v cos  Fig. 1.9

1.13. Two swimmers starting from A wants to reach to the point B by

crossing the river in which the current velocity is v0 by two approaches.
One of them crosses the river along the path AB with a velocity v' relative
to water while the other swims at right angles to the stream with the same
velocity and reaches to the point C (Fig. 1.10b) lying on the other bank. At
what velocity u he should run along CB so that both the swimmers reaches
B simultaneously.
l
v0 u
C B B C
v0

y v  2  v02 v
v


A A
Fig. 1.10a Fig. 1.10b

Solution: In view of Fig. 1.10a one swimmer moves along AC with

velocity v'. Due to the current having velocity v0 it will have a resultant
2
velocity v v02 along AB. Time taken t is given by
y
y y
t= = ; y = width of the river..
v 2 2
v v2
0
v  1  02
v
The other swimmer moves along AB with velocity v' and therefore the
y
time t1 taken for the journey =
v
Due to the current it will reach to point C.
8 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

v0 l
tan  = =
v y
v0 ·y
 l= ; l = BC.
v
Time taken for the path CB with velocity u is given by
l v ·y
t2 = = 0
u v ·u
t = t1 + t2
y y v ·y
or = + 0
v 2
0
v vu
v 1 2
v

1 v0
or = 1+
v 2 u
0
1 2
v

v0
or u = 1
2 2
v 0
1 2
1
v

5
1.14. A boat takes min to cross a 100 m wide river with a speed
4
of V = 4 m/sec relative to the water. Assuming the current speed
u = 2 m/sec find possible up stream or down stream point where the boat
will reach on the opposite shore.
100 4
Solution: V sin  = v = =
5 3
60
4
1
 sin  = Fig. 1.11a
3
8
cos  =
3
For up the stream the required velocity
= V cos  – u (see Fig. 1.11a)
8
–2 =4·
3
= 1.77 m/sec Fig. 1.11b

Distance moved = 1.77 × 75 = 132.8 m

KINEMATICS IN ONE AND TWO DIMENSIONS 9
For down the stream the required velocity= V cos  + u (see Fig. 1.11b)
8
=4· + 2 = 5.77 m/sec
3
Distance moved = 5.77 × 75 = 432.8 m
1.15. A motor boat moving up streams meets a raft moving down stream.
After travelling for a period of t1 = 30 min the boat reaches a landing place
where it stops for a period of t2 = 1 hr. The boat then travels down stream
and meets the raft in t3 = 45 min. Find the current velocity u by assuming
the speed of the boat relative to the water V = 8 km/hr.
Solution: In view of Fig. 1.12
we have
u (t1 + t2 + t3) + (V – u) t1
= (V + u) t3 ;
u = current velocity.
ut2 = V (t3 – t1)
V t3 t1
u=
t2 Fig. 1.12

8(0.75 0.5)
On putting the values u = = 2 km/hr
1
1.16. The width of a river is 25 m and in it water is flowing with a velocity
of 4 m/min. A boatman is standing on the bank of river. He wants to sail
the boat at a point to the other bank which is directly opposite to him. In
what time will he cross the river if he can sail the boat at 8 m/min relative
to the water.
Solution: The boatman will sail the boat along AC (see Fig. 1.13)
u 4 1
sin  = = =
V 8 2
 = 30º
3 25
cos  = =
2 AC
50
 AC =
3
AC 50 Fig. 1.13
time t = = = 3.6 min.
8 3 8
1.17. Two boats A and B move in perpendicular direction to a buoy
anchored at some point O on a river. They travel with velocity 1.2 v, where
v is the stream velocity, boat A moves along the river, whereas boat B moves
10 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

perpendicular to it. After traversing an equal distance from O the two boats
return. Find the ratio of the time taken by the two boats.
Solution: Boat A travels along OX and boat B moves along OY (Fig.1.14).
Let OX = OY = l. The times of journey of boat A from O to X and from X
l l
to O are and , respectively..
1.2v  v 1.2v v
Total time taken by boat A is given by
y v
l l
tA = +
1.2v  v 1.2v v
o
2 1.2l x
= 2
v 1.2 1 Fig. 1.14

For boat B to move from O to Y its velocity must be at an angle to the

direction of the stream velocity in such a way that the resultant velocity is
directed towards Y. The magnitude of the resultant velocity is given by
1
2 2l
v 1.2 1 2 . The total time taken by boat B is given by tB = 1
.
2 2
v 1.2 1

tA 1.2
 = = 1.81
tB 1.2
2
1

1.18. In Fig. 1.15 what should be the angle  at which a swimmer should
swim to reach to point B, starting from point A. The speed of the swimmer
is v, that of the stream u and the angle  is known.
Solution: A is the point from which the swimmer moves at an angle 
with respect to the width of the river AC. On resolving v along x and y axes
we have v cos  as the speed along the y axis and u + v sin  along the
x axis.
u  v sin 
Now tan  =
v cos 
or v cos  sin  = u cos  + v sin  cos 
or v [sin ( – )] = u cos 
u
or sin ( – ) = cos 
v
u 
or  =  – sin–1  cos  
v  Fig. 1.15
KINEMATICS IN ONE AND TWO DIMENSIONS 11
1.19. A man swimming at rate of 5 km/h wants to cross a 120 m wide
river in a direction perpendicular to the stream. If the stream speed is
4 km/h then find the direction in which the man swims, and the time he
takes to cross the river.
Solution: In Fig. 1.16 OA represents the stream speed of 4 km/h and OB
the swimming speed of 5 km/h. The swimming direction is 90 +  with
respect to the stream.
4
Now sin  =
5
4
cos (90 + ) = – sin  = –
5
Therefore, the direction in which
the man swims is given by
 4
cos–1    .
 5
In triangle BOC, we have OC = 120 m.
3 OC Fig. 1.16
cos BOC = cos  = =
5 OB
5 5
 OB = × OC = × 120 = 200 m
3 3
200
Time taken to cross the river = × 3600 = 144 s
5 1000
1.20. Two particles are projected in the xy plane with equal speeds of
v = 14.1 m/s from the reference point O at angles 1 = 60° and 2 = 30° as
shown in Fig. 1.17. What will be their separation after t = 3 s?
Solution: x component of velocity of the particle projected at angle 1= v
cos 1 (on positive side of x axis) x component of velocity of the particle
projected an angle 2 = v cos 2 (on negative side of x axis)
Relative velocity along y axis
x axis = v (cos 1 + cos 2)
v
y component of velocity of particle
projected at an angle 1= (v sin 1 – gt)
(on positive side of y axis)
y component of velocity of particle 2 1
x axis
projected at an angle 2 = (v sin 2 – gt)
Fig. 1.17
(on positive side of y axis)
Relative velocity along y axis = v (sin 1 – sin 2)
12 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

 cos 1  cos 2    sin 1  sin 2 

2 2
Resultant velocity V = v

= v 2  2cos  1  2 

 1  2 
= 2v cos
2
Separation between the two particles after time
   2 
t = 2v cos  1  t
 2 
On substituting the values of 1; 2; v and t we have,
 30  60 
Separation between the two particles = 2  14.1  cos  3
 2 
= 2 × 14.1 × cos 45 × 3
1 3
= 2 × 14.1 ×
1.41
= 60 m
1.21. A particle initially at rest starts moving from the reference point
x = 0 along the x axis, with a velocity v that varies as v =  x where  is
constant. (a) How do the velocity and acceleration of the particle vary
with time? (b) What is the average velocity of the particle over the first s
metres of its path.
Solution: (a) The velocity of the particle is given by
v= x
On differentiating it with respect to t we have
dv  1 dx  2 dx
= · · = ·v= ; v velocity
dt 2 x dt 2 x 2 dt
2
or dv = dt
2
On integration, we have
2
v= t
2
This is the required equation for velocity.
On differentiating the above expression for velocity with respect to t
dv 2
we have acceleration a = = .
dt 2
The above equation is independent of time and therefore suggests
that the acceleration of the particle remains constant.
(b) Let us start with the equation
KINEMATICS IN ONE AND TWO DIMENSIONS 13
dx 2
v= = t
dt 2
2
or dx = t dt
2
On integration, we have
 2t 2
x=
4
Let t1 be the total time taken by the particle to cover a distance of
s metres. Then
 2t12
s =
4
4s
or t1 =
2
s s · 
Average velocity = = = s
t1 2 s 2
1.22. A particle having an initial velocity v0 moves along a straight line
with deceleration a represented by the equation a =  v , where  is
constant. After what time and after covering what distance will the particle
be brought to rest.
dv
Solution: Acceleration a = =   v (given)
dt
dv dv ds dv ds
Now = · = ·v=– v ; v velocity
dt ds dt ds dt
or v dv = –  ds
Integrating the above equation, we have
0 1 s

v 2 dv =  ds
v0 0

2 3/2 2 3/2
or v0 =  s or s  v0
3 3
dv
Again =– v
dt
or v –1/2dv = –  dt
Integrating the above equation, we have
0 t

v 1/2
dv =    dt
v0 0

2
or v0 = t

14 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

1.23. A small block of mass m slides down an inclined plane forming an

angle  = 30° with the horizontal. The coefficient of friction k between the
block and the plane is no longer constant but varies with x, the distance
travelled by the block on the plane, according to the equation
k = ax, where a is a constant. Find the distance travelled and the maximum
velocity attained by the block before coming to rest.
Solution: The equation of motion of the N KN
block along the plane (see Fig. 1.18) is
given by
dv
mg sin  – k mg cos  = m 
dt sin
mg
mg
dv dx 
or g sin  – kg cos  =
dx dt Fig. 1.18

dv dx
or g sin  – kg cos  = v ; v
dx dt
or (g sin  – g a x cos ) dx = vdv
On integrating the above equation, we have
ax 2 v2
g sin  · x – g cos  =
2 2
This is the equation for the velocity of the block.
On settig v = 0 we have
2 2 1
x= tan  or x = ×
a a 3
dv
For obtaining the maximum value of v, we equate to zero
o
dx
vdv
i.e., g sin  – a g x cos  = =0
dx
tan 
or x =
a
tan 
i.e., at a distance x = the velocity of the block will be maximum.
a
1 2 tan  a · g tan2 
Now v = g sin  · – cos 
2 max a 2 a2
g sin  · tan  g
= – sin  · tan 
a 2a
g
= sin · tan 
2a
KINEMATICS IN ONE AND TWO DIMENSIONS 15

g
 vmax = sin  · tan 
a
On putting  = 30°, we have
1/2
g 1 1 g
vmax = × =
a 2 3 2a 3
1.24. Two particles a and b initially at distances l1 = 4 m and l2 = 3 m
from the point O, begin to move towards O with velocities v1 = 3 m/s and
v2 = 4 m/s along two mutually perpendicular straight path intersecting
at O (see Fig. 1.19). After what time will the distance between the two
particles be minimum ? What will be the value of this minimum distance ?
Solution: After time t the distance between the
particles is given by x2 = (l1 – v1t)2 + (l2 – v2t)2
On differentiating this with respect to t and
setting the differential to zero we have
dx
2x =0
dt
= 2 (l1 – v1t) × – v1 + 2 (l2 – v2t) × – v2
or l1v1 – v12 t = – l2v2 + v22 t Fig. 1.19

l1v1 l2v2
or t =
v12 v22
On substituting the values of l1, l2, v1 and v2, we have
4 3 3 4 24
t = = s
16 9 25
In view of the value of t the starting equation takes the form
2 2
2 l1v1 l2v2 lv l v
2
x = l +l –
2
1
2
2
+ 1 12 2 22
v12 v22 v1 v2
2
lv l v
= l + l – 1 12 2 22
2
1
2
2
v1 v2
2
lv l v
= 1 22 2 21
v1 v2
l1v2 l2v1 16 9 7
or xmin = = = = 1.4 m
v v 2
16 9
2 5
1 2

1.25. The equation of motion of an object moving in the xy plane with

constant acceleration a acting along the negative y axis is governed by
16 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

the relation y = x – x2, where  and  are constants. Find the initial
velocity of the object.
Solution: y = x – x2 (given)
On differentiating this with respect to t, we have
dy dx dx
= – 2x
dt dt dt
A further differentiation with respect to t yields
2
d2 y d2x d2x dx
2 = 2 – 2x 2 – 2
dt dt dt dt
2
d x d2 y
In view of the problem we have = 0 and =–a
dt 2 dt 2
Substituting these values in the above equation, we get
2
dx dx a
– a = – 2 or =
dt dt 2
dx dy
With this value of , at x = 0 becomes
dt dt
dy a
=
dt 2
2 2
dx dy a a
 v02 = + = + 2
dt dt 2 2

1    a2

 v0 =
2
1.26. A stone is thrown horizontally with a velocity of 10 m/sec from a
height of h above the ground. Find the radius of curvature of its trajectory
in 3 sec after the motion begins.
1 2
Solution: x = 10t, y = gt = 4.9t2
2
4.9 x 2
or y =
100
dy 4.9 x d2 y 4.9
= and =
dx 50 dx 2 50

1 d 2 y /dx 2
= 3
 dy
2 2

1 Fig. 1.20
dx
KINEMATICS IN ONE AND TWO DIMENSIONS 17

4.9
1 50
= 3 ; x = 10 × 3 = 30 m
   4.9  3   2
2

1    
  5  
1 4.9
=
 50 9.6436 3.1
 = 305 m
1.27. The equation for the parabola is of the form x2 = 2py where p is +ve
constant. Find the radius of curvature of the parabola at each point.
Solution: x2 = 2py
dy d2 y
p = x and p =1
dx dx 2
1 d 2 y / dx 2 1
= 3 =
  
2 2
3

 dy   x2  2
1
    p 1  2 
  dx    p 
3
 x2  2
or  = p 1  2 
 p 
1.28. A ball is thrown vertically upward from the top of a tower with an
initial velocity u reaches the foot in time t1. When it is thrown vertically
downwards with the same initial velocity from the same point it takes
time t2. Calculate the free fall time.
Solution: Let h be the height of the tower then the equation of motion of
the ball is given by
1
h = – ut1 +g t12
2
1
and h = + ut2 + g t 22
2
1
h (t1 + t2) = g t1 t2 (t1 + t2)
2
1
or h = g t1 t2
2
1
In case of free fall h = gt2
2
On comparing the two we have
t = t1t 2
18 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

1.29. Two particles are projected in the earths gravitational field from a
point with initial velocities v1 and v2 and at angles 1 and 2 with the
horizontal respectively. What will be the path of one particle as seen from
the other.
Solution: The separation betwen the two particles along x axis (taken as
horizontal) is equal to
x = x2 – x1 = (v2 cos 2 – v1 cos 1) t
Similarly the separation between the particles along y axis is equal to
 1   1 
y =  v2 sin 2 t  gt 2  –  v1 sin 1 t  gt 2 
 2   2 
y = (v2 sin 2 – v1 sin 1) t
These separations are in fact the coordinates of a point on one
trajectory relative to the other
y v sin 2  v1 sin 1
= 2 = constt. = m
x v2 cos 2  v1 cos 1
 y = mx
The path will therefore be a straight line.
1.30. A spherical ball is located at a point A (see Fig. 1.21) at a height h
above the earth’s surface. As it starts falling freely another similar ball is
thrown from the earth’s surface from the point O. With what initial velocity
and at what angle should the ball be thrown from O in order to collide
with the first one at B at an altitude h1 = h/2 after covering a horizontal
distance l ?
Solution: Time taken by the first ball for the path AB is the same as that of
the second ball for the horizontal distance l.
h 1 2
Now AB = = gt
2 2 A

h
or t =
g
h
Distance l = v cos  · t; v is the initial velocity
B
h
= v cos 
g v h1
h 1 2
Further = v sin  · t – gt
2 2 
O
h h h l
or = v sin  · –
2 g 2 Fig. 1.21
KINEMATICS IN ONE AND TWO DIMENSIONS 19

h
or h = v sin  ·
g
or v sin  = hg
l2g
v 2 (sin2  + cos2 ) = gh +
h
g 2
or v= l h2
h
gh h
tan  = h =
l g l
1.31. An aeroplane P initially located at O moves along the path OB
inclined at 30° with the horizontal with a constant velocity of 30 m/s. At
the same time a bomber Q moving from left to right with a constant
horizontal velocity of 126 m/s at a certain height above the ground release
a bomb which hits the plane P at B (see Fig. 1.22). Find the height of the
bomber Q assuming it was 500 m behind P when it released the bomb.
Solution: The time of journey for the path
QB is the same as that of path OB, i.e.,
500 x x x
= =
126 30 cos 30 15 3
or 500 × 15 3 + 15 3 x = 126 x
or 500 × 15 3 = (126 – 26) x ; 15 3 = 26
or x = 75 3 Fig. 1.22

Let t be the time taken by the aeroplane in going from O to B. Then we

have
x = 75 3 = 30 cos 30 × t = 15 3 t
t=5s
1 2 1
Height AQ = gt = × 9.8 × 25 = 122.5 m
2 2
1
Height O'B = 30 sin 30 × t = 30 × × 5 = 75 m
2
Height of the bomber above the ground = 197.5 m
1.32. A batsman lifts a ball almost from the ground with an aim of
providing the maximum horizontal range to it. At the same time a fielder
40 m away from the batsman runs at the speed of 10 m/sec along the line
of the hit and catches the ball. Find the velocity of the ball just after it is
struck, g = 10 m/s2.
20 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution: First part : When the fielder is going away from the batsman.
The time taken by the ball to traverse path AD = time taken by the
fielder to move distance BD = t (see Fig. 1.23).
Let u be the velocity of the ball at the hit. Then 40 + 10 t = u cos 45 × t
u
or 40 + 10 t = t.
2
Moreover t will be the time of flight, i.e.,
2 u sin 45 u 2
t= =
g 10
On substituting the value of t in the above equation, we have
u2
40 + u 2 =
10
or u2 – 10 2 · u – 400 = 0
10 2 200 1600
or u =
2
14.14 1800
=
2
14.14 42.43 Fig. 1.23
= = 28.28 m/s
2
Second part : When the fielder is coming close towards the batsman.
Time taken by the ball to traverse path AC = time taken by the fielder
to travel distance BC = t
Let v be the velocity of the ball when hit. Then
v v 2
40 – 10 t = v cos 45 t = t; here t = exactly as above.
e.
2 10
On substituting the value of t we have
v2 + 10 2v – 400 = 0
10 2 200 1600
or v =
2
14.14 42.43
or v = = 14.14 m/s
2
1.33. A ball is thrown from the point O at an angle  to the horizontal with
an initial velocity of v0. Find (i) range (ii) maximum height (iii) time of
dv
flight (iv) equation of trajectory in the coordinates x' and y' (v) and
dt
KINEMATICS IN ONE AND TWO DIMENSIONS 21
d
v at the apex of the trajectory (vi) radius of curvature of the trajectory
y
dt
at point O and O'. y y
Solution: x
v02 sin 2 O
(i) v0
g
v02 sin 2 
(ii)
2g

x
2 v0 sin  O
(iii)
g Fig. 1.24

1 x2
(iv) y = x tan  – g· 2
2 v0 cos2 
v cos  · v0 sin  v02 sin 2 
x= 0 + x' and y = y' +
g 2g
 v02 sin 2    v0 
 y    =  v0 cos  · sin   x   tan 
 2g   g 
2
g  v0 sin  
– v
 0 cos  ·  x  
2 v02 cos2   g 
g
or y' = – x' 2
2 v02 cos2 
dv d
(v) = 0, (v) = 0
dt dt
g x2
(vi) y = x tan  –
2v cos2 
2
0

dy gx
= tan  – 2
dx v0 cos2 
At O, x = 0, y = 0
dy
 = tan 
dx
d2 y g
2 =
dx v0 cos2 
2

g
1 v02 cos2 
= 3
 1  tan2   2
22 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

v02
 at O =
g cos 
dy  gx 
= 2 = 0 at O'
dx v0 cos2 
d2y g
2 =
dx v0 cos2 
2

v02 cos2 
 ' = –
g
1.34. An object is situated on a hill h metres high has an elevation . In
order to hit this object show that the initial velocity of projection should
not be less than gh (1  cosec ) .
Solution: Let O be the point from which
an object is projected with an initial
velocity u in order to hit the object
positioned at A. In view of Fig. 1.25, we
have
OA = h cosec  Fig. 1.25
Now if u is minimum then OA will be the maximum range, i.e.,
u2
h cosec  = OA =
g 1  sin  
or u = gh 1  cosec  
1.35. Two particles A and B starts moving from a high point O at t = 0 in
the opposite direction with horizontal velocities of 3 m/s and 4 m/s
respectively. Due to earth’s gravitational field the two particles experiences
uniform acceleration g = 9.8 m/s2. How far apart are the particles when
their velocity vectors become mutually perpendicular.
Solution: Let us assume that v1 = 3 m/s and v2 = 4 m/s.
In view of the geometry of the
Fig. 1.26 we have the following:

1 + 2 =
2
gt
sin 1 =
2 2
g t v12
gt
sin 2 =
g 2t 2 v22
Fig. 1.26
KINEMATICS IN ONE AND TWO DIMENSIONS 23
v1
cos 1 =
2 2
g t v12
v2
and cos 2 =
g 2t 2 v22
gtv2 gtv1
Now sin (1 + 2) = sin 90 = 1 =
2 2 2
g t v 1 g 2t 2 v22

or g 2t 2 v12 g 2t 2 v22 = g2t2 v12 v22 + 2g2t2v1v2

or g4t4 + g2t2 v12 v22 + v12 v22 = g2t2 v12 v22 + 2g2t2v1v2

or g4t4 – 2g2t2v1v2 + v12 v22 = 0

or (g2t2 – v1v2)2 = 0
or g2t2 = v1v2
v1v2
or t =
g
v1 v2
Separation between the particles = (v1 + v2 ) t = v1v2 at
g
time t
On substituting the values of v1, v2 and g we have
(3 4) 12
Separation between the particles =
9.8
2 3
=
1.4
1.73
= 2.47 m =
0.7
1.36. Two successive shells fired with velocity v = 200 m/s from a point at
angles 1 = 60° and 2 = 30° to the horizontal collide in space. Assuming
the air drag to be negligible. Calculate the lapse of time between the two
firings.
Solution: Let t1 and t2 be the time taken
by the shells fired at angles 1 and  2
respectively. In view of Fig. 1.27, we have
l = v cos 1t1 = v cos 2t2
v
and v h
1 
h = v sin 1t1 – g t12 1 2
2 l
1 2
= v sin 2t2 – g t 2 Fig. 1.27
2
24 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

In the light of the second equation, we have

1
v (sin 1t1 – sin 2t2) = g t12 t 22
2
 l sin 2 ·l  1  l l 
or v sin 1 ·   = g (t1 – t2)   
 v cos 1 v cos 2  2  v cos 1 v cos 2 
sin  1  2  1 t1  t 2  cos 1  cos 2 
or = g
cos 1 ·cos 2 2 v cos 1 · cos 2

2v sin  1  2 
or t = t1 – t2 =
g  cos 1  cos 2 
On substituting the values of the various terms occurring in the above
equation we get t as follows:
2 200 sin (60 30) 200 200
t = = = = 14.9 sec..
9.8 (cos 60 cos 30) 4.9 1 3 4.9 2.73

1.37. A triangular frame OAB with base angles  and  as shown in the
Fig. 1.28 is located in xy plane. At what angle  a projectile be projected
from O so as to graze the vertex A and fall at the base B.
Solution: For the frame we have.
y y
tan  + tan  = + ; R = Range
x R x
y = AC
yR
=
x (R x )
For the projectile we have
gx 2
y = x tan  – ; v = velocity of projection.
2v cos2 
2

 gx 
= x tan  1  2 
 2v cos  · tan  
2

x
= x tan  1
R
R x
y = x tan 
R
yR
tan  = = tan  + tan 
x (R x )
  = tan–1 [tan  + tan ] Fig. 1.28
KINEMATICS IN ONE AND TWO DIMENSIONS 25
1.38. A particle is projected from the top of a tower of height H at an
angle  with the horizontal. It strikes the ground at A lying at a distance D
from the foot of the tower (see Fig. 1.29). Calculate the maximum height
attained by the particle.
v
Solution: Let t be the time of flight.
h
t · v cos  = D; 
v = velocity of projection.
D H
t=
v cos 
A
Further D
1 2 Fig. 1.29
– H = v sin  · t – gt
2
v sin  · D 1 D2
or –H = – g· 2
v cos  2 v cos2 
1 D2
or – H = D tan  – g 2
2 v cos2 
gD2
or = H + D tan 
2v 2 cos2 
Now v2 sin2  = 2gh ; h is the maximum height above the tower
v 2 sin 2  sin 2  g D2
h= = ×
2g 2g 2 ( H  D tan )  cos2 
D 2 tan 2 
=
4( H  D tan )
D 2 tan 2 
 Maximum height = H +
4( H  D tan )
1.39. Two walls AB & CD each of height h are at a distance 2h from each
other (see Fig. 1.30). A particle projected from the point O with a velocity
v = 2  gh just clears the two walls and strike the ground at E. Calculate
the time taken by the projectile in passing between the two walls.
Solution: Let us assume that the projectile attains a height h in time t.
1 2 y axis
h = 2  gh · sin  · t – gt
2
v A C
This is a quadratic
equation in t, therefore it h
will have two roots t1 and 
t2. Now x axis
O B D E
4  gh 2h
t1 + t2 = sin  Fig. 1.30
g
26 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

h
and t1t2 = 2
g
Now (t2 – t1)2 = (t1 + t2)2 – 4 t1 t2
16h 8h
(t2 – t1)2 = sin2  –
g g
1
 8h 2
(t2 – t1) =  (2 sin 2   1)
g 
Further 2  gh · cos  × (t2 – t1) = 2h

h 1
or t2 – t1 = ·
g cos 
1
h 1  8h 2
 ·
g cos 
=   2 sin 2   1 
 g 
h 8h
= (2 sin2  – 1)
g cos2  g
1 = 16 sin2  cos2  – 8 cos2 
1 = 16 (1 – cos2 ) cos2  – 8 cos2 
1 = 16 cos2  – 16 cos4  – 8 cos2 
16 cos4  – 8 cos2  + 1 = 0
or (4 cos2  – 1)2 = 0
1
or cos2  =
4
3
sin2  =
4
With these values
1
 8h  2  3  2 4h h
t2 – t1 =    1  = = 2
 g 4  g g
1.40. A ball is projected in xy plane with a velocity v0 and at an angle 
with the horizontal. During motion it experiences an air resistance equal
to + v where  is a positive constant and v is the instantaneous velocity.
Find (i) the time taken to attain the highest point (ii) the maximum height
attained by the ball.
Solution:
(i) The equation of motion of the ball along y axis is given by
mdv
= – (mg + v)
dt
KINEMATICS IN ONE AND TWO DIMENSIONS 27
0 t
mdv
or – 
v0 sin  mg  v
= dt
0

m  v0 sin  
log 1   =t
  mg 
mdv
(ii) = – (mg + v)
dt
dv dh
or m· · = – (mg + v)
dh dt
0 h
m ·vdv
or – 
v0 sin  (mg   v )
= dh
0

mv0 sin  m g
2
  v0 sin  
or h= – 2 log 1  
   mg 
1.41. A particle of mass m is projected vertically upward with a velocity v0
in a medium whose resistance is kv2. Determine the time at which the
particle will come to rest.
Solution: The equation of motion of the particle is given by
mdv
= – (mg + kv2)
dt
0 t
mdv
or – = dt
v0 mg kv 2 0
v0 t
m dv
= = dt
k mg
0 v2 0
k

m k k
t = · tan–1 vo
k mg mg
m k
= · tan–1 vo
kg mg
1.42. At what initial speed and at what angle with the horizontal a particle
be projected in order to attain a maximum height H and horizontal
range R?
Solution: Let the particle be projected at an angle  with the horizontal
with an initial speed v.
v 2 sin 2  2v 2 sin  cos 
H = and R =
2g g
28 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

4v 4
R2 =  sin 2  1  sin 2   
g2  
4v 4
=  sin 2   sin 4  
g2 
4v 4  2Hg 4H 2 g 2  8Hv 2
= 2  2  4  = – 16H2
g  v v  g

g R2 16 H 2
 v =
8H
2
2gH 2gH · 8H 16H
sin2  = = = 2
g  R  16 H   16 H 2
2
v 2 2 R
4H
sin  =
2
R 16 H 2

4H
or  = sin–1 2
R 16 H 2

1.43. A particle is projected up an incline plane of inclination 

(see Fig. 1.31). At what elevation  to the horizontal the particle will strike
the plane at right angles.
Solution: Time of flight for path OA is given by
2v sin     
t=
g cos 
Initial velocity of the particle = v cos ( – )
Final velocity at A = 0 = v cos ( – ) – g sin  · t.
The particle is striking the plane at A at 90°.
v cos     
t=
g sin 
2v sin      v cos      v
 = 90°
g cos  g sin  A
or 2 tan ( – ) = cot 
 
 tan   tan  
2   = cot  O
 1  tan  · tan  
Fig. 1.31

or 2 tan  – 2 tan  = cot  + tan 

tan  = cot  + 2 tan 
or  = tan–1 (cot  + 2 tan ]
KINEMATICS IN ONE AND TWO DIMENSIONS 29
1.44. A projectile is fired from point O with initial velocity v and angle of
elevation  along an incline plane of inclination . For what value of  the
range on the incline plane is maximum.
Solution: In Fig. 1.32 the coordinates of point A is given by
x = v cos  · t = r cos 
1 2
y = v sin  · t – gt = r sin ; r = range OA
A
2
r cos  1 r 2 cos2 
r sin  = v sin  · – g· 2
v cos  2 v cos2 
gr cos 
tan  = tan  –
2v 2 cos2 
2v 2 cos2 
 r = (tan  – tan ) ·
g cos 
2
dr 2v
Now = [sec2  · cos2  + tan  × – 2 cos  sin 
d g cos 
– tan  × – 2 cos  · sin ] = 0
or 1 – 2 sin  cos  (tan  – tan ) = 0
1
or tan  – tan  =
2 sin  cos 
1
or tan  – = tan 
2 sin  cos 
or – cot 2  = tan 
 
or  = + Fig. 1.32
4 2
1.45. A bullet of mass M is fired with a velocity of 50 m/sec. at an angle 
with the horizontal. At the highest point of its trajectory it collides head
on with a bob of mass 3M suspended by a massless string of length
10/3 metres and gets embedded in the bob. After the collision the string
moves through an angle of 120°. Find (i) the angle  (ii) the vertical and
horizontal co-ordinates of the initial position of the bob with respect to
the point of firing the bullet (take g = 10 m/sec2). (I.I.T. 1988)
Solution: At the point P (see Fig. 1.33), ux = x component of velocity
= u cos  and uy = 0.
According to conservation of momentum we have
M · ux = Mu cos  = (M + 3M) v;
v = final velocity acquired by the bob + bullet
30 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

According to conservation of energy

1
· (4M) v2 = 4M · gh = 4Mg (l + l sin 30)
2
v2 = 2gh = 2g · (l + l sin 30)
v2 = 3gl
Now u2 cos2  = 42 · 3gl
16 3 10 10
cos2  = 3
502
40 4
cos  = =
50 5
4
 = cos–1 = 37°
5 Fig. 1.33
u sin  50  0.6
(ii) Time of ascent t = = = 3 sec
g 10
x = u cos  · t
4
= 50 × × 3 = 120 m
5
1 2
y = u sin  · t – gt
2
1
= 50 × 0.6 × 3 – × 10 × 9
2
= 90 – 45
= 45 m
1.46. A particle projected from the origin (x = y = 0) moves in a path lying
in the xy plane with a velocity V = 2i + 4xj, where i and j are the unit vectors
along x and y axes. Find the equation of motion of the particle.
Solution: V = 2i + 4xj
or iVx + jVy = 2i + 4xj
or Vx = 2 and Vy = 4x
dy dy dx dy dx
We know that = · ; = 4x and = 2.
dt dx dt dt dt
On substituting these values, we have
dy
4x = ·2
dx
or 2xdx = dy
On integrating the above, we get
x2 = y
This is the required equation for the trajectory of the particle.
KINEMATICS IN ONE AND TWO DIMENSIONS 31
1.47. A lift starts going up with a uniform acceleration a = 1.4 m/s2. After
t = 2.0 s of its journey a bolt from its ceiling starts falling freely. Assume
the floor-to-ceiling distance of the lift to be equal to 2.8 m, find the
displacement and the distance travelled by the bolt.
Solution: As the lift is going up with an acceleration a, the acceleration of
the bolt relative to the lift = g + a. Let the time of free fall of the bolt be t.
1
Then, 2.8 = (g + a)t2
2
or
2 2.8 5.6
t= 9.8 1.4 = = 0.5 = 0.707 s
11.2
The velocity of the lift after 2.0 s = 1.4 × 2 = 2.8 m/s
Now the distance covered by the lift (Fig. 1.34)
1 2 S1
S2 = 2.8t + at
2
1
= 2.8 × 0.707 + × 1.4 × 0.5
2
= 1.98 + 0.35 = 2.33 m S

Displacement of the bolt S = 2.8 – 2.33 = 0.47 m

On considering the motion of the bolt we have
0 = (2.8)2 – 2 × 9.8 × S1 S2
(2.8)2
or S1 = = 0.4 m Fig. 1.34
2 9.8
Distance covered by the bolt = 2S1 + S = 2 × 0.4 + 0.47 = 1.27 m
1.48. A particle moves along a straight line with an acceleration a = 6 3 s .
At t = 2 sec its displacement is 27 m and its velocity is 27 m/sec. Find the
velocity and acceleration at t = 4 sec.
1
dv
Solution: = 6 s3
dt
1

vdv = 6 s 3 ds
On integration
4

v2 = 9 s 3 + C
4
272 = 9 · (27)3 + C
C = 0
2
Now v = 3 s3
32 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

2
ds
= 3 s3
dt
2

s 3 ds = 3 dt
On integration we have
1
s 3 = t + C1
At t = 2 sec s = 27 m
 C1 = 1
1
 s3 = t + 1
At t = 4 sec
s = (4 + 1)3 = 125 m
2
v = 3 × (125)3 = 75 m/sec
1
a = 6 × (125)3 = 30 m/sec2
1.49. A particle moves along a verticle line with an acceleration a = 2  v .
64
At t = 2 sec its displacement s = m and its velocity v = 16 m/sec. Find
3
displacement, velocity and acceleration at t = 3 sec.
1
dv
Solution: = 2v2
dt
1

or v 2
dv = 2 dt
On integration
v = t+C
At t = 2 sec v = 16 m/sec
C = 2
 v = t+2
ds
Now v = = t2 + 4t + 4
dt
ds = t2 · dt + 4t · dt + 4 · dt
On integration
t3
s = + 2t2 + 4t + C1
3
64 8
= + 8 + 8 + C1
3 3
8
C1 =
3
KINEMATICS IN ONE AND TWO DIMENSIONS 33

t3 8
Therefore s = + 2t 2 + 4t +
3 3
At t = 3 sec
8
s = 27 + 18 + 12 +
3
= 41.7 m
v = (3 + 2)2 = 25 m/sec
a = 2  25 = 10 m/sec2
1.50. A particle initially at rest completed N = 1.5 revolutions around a
circle of radius R = 5 m at a constant tangential acceleration during time
 = 10 sec. Calculate (i) the mean value of speed v (ii) the magnitude of
the mean velocity |V | (iii) the magnitude of the mean acceleration |a|.
Solution:
Total distance travelled 1.5  2  R 3 R
(i) v = = = = 4.7 m/sec
Total time  
Displacement 2R
(ii) |V | = = = 1 m/sec
Time 
Change in velocity 2V 2 2 RN
(iii) |a| = = = ·
Total time   
6 R
= 2 = 0.942 m/sec2.

1.51. A disc D and a fix vertical
cylinder C of radius R = 0.25 m
connected through a horizontal
thread CD of length l = 2 m lies in a
horizontal plane. On imparting an
initial velocity of v = 2 m/s to the disc
it starts moving on the path shown in
the Fig. 1.35a. What time will the disc
take to strike the cylinder ? Fig. 1.35a
Solution: As the thread moves it
describes an angle. Let us assume
 to be the total angle described by
the thread till the disc strikes the
cylinder. Consider a section of the
path AB described by the disc (see
Fig. 1.35b). The length of the path
AB = (l – R) d
Fig. 1.35b
34 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Total distance covered by the disc = (l  R) d 

0

R2
= l –
2
Further, l = R
l
=
R
On substituting the value of  the total distance covered by the disc
l2 l2 l2
= – =
R 2R 2R
Length covered l2
Time taken by the disc t = =
Velocity v 2 Rv
On substituting the values of various terms we have
l2 4
t= = = 4s
2 Rv 2 0.25 2
1.52. A ball, initially at rest, starts falling down
a smooth plane inclined at angle  = 30° with
the horizontal. After falling through the dis-
tance h = 4 m, the ball rebounds elastically off
the plane (Fig. 1.36a). At what distance from
the point of impact will the ball rebound for
the second time ?
Solution: The ball strikes the inclined plane
with a velocity v = 2gh where h is the
distance travelled by the ball in air. The initial Fig. 1.36a
velocity of the ball at the first impact is v. In
view of the Fig. 1.36b, v makes an angle  with
the y-axis. Velocity v will have two
components, v sin  = vx along the plane and
v cos  = vy perpendicular to the plane.
Let l be the distance travelled along the
plane between the first and second impact.
Then, according to the laws of motion,
1
l = v sin  · t + · g sin  · t2; g sin  is the
2
component of acceleration due to gravity
along the plane. Here t is the time of flight.

Fig. 1.36b
KINEMATICS IN ONE AND TWO DIMENSIONS 35
1
Further, v cos  · t – g cos  · t2 = 0
2
2v
t =
g
2v 2 · sin  1 4v 2
With this value of t, l = + g · sin  · 2
g 2 g
4v 2 sin  4
= = sin  × 2gh
g g
= 8 h sin 
On substituting the value of  = 30° and h = 4 m, we have
1
l =8×4× = 16 m
2
1.53. A particle is projected from a point P on the earth with a velocity v0
at an angle of 45° with the horizontal at any instant t = 0. Find out the
magnitude and direction of the angular momentum of the particle about
v
the point P at the instant t = 0 . (IIT, 1984)
g
Solution: The particle will
describe a parabolic path in
the earth’s gravitational field
(see Fig. 1.37). After a lapse of
v
time t = 0 the particle will be at
g
some point Q(x, y). The two
components of velocities at Q are
given by
Fig. 1.37
v0
vx = v0 cos 45 =
2
v
and vy = v0 sin 45 – gt = v0 sin 45 – v0; since 0 = t
g
v0
= 1 2
2
The position of point Q is given by
v0 v02
x = v0 cos 45 × = and
g g 2
2
v0 1 v
y = v0 sin 45 × – g 0
g 2 g
v02
= 2 1
2g
36 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

The angular momentum is defined as

L = mr × v
= m ix  jy  kz   iv x  jv y  kv z  
= m i  y · v z  v y · z   j v x · z  x · v z   k v y · x  v x · y  
Since the particle is moving in the xy plane the only component of L
that will exist is m (x · vy – y · vx) along the z axis.
 v02 v0 v02 v0 
 Lz = m (x·vy – y·vx) = m  1  2  
2g
  
2 1 · 
g 2 2 2
mv03 mv03
= 2 2 2 1 =
2g 2 2g 2
The negative sign indicates that the angular momentum will be along
the negative side of z axis.
1.54. A body projected with an initial velocity v = 50 m/s from the point O
at an angle  to the horizontal is hurled at a horizontal disance l = 125 m
from the edge of a platform and hits the ground at a distance x from the
vertical edge (see Fig. 1.38). At what value of , will x be minimum, given
g = 10 m/s2.
Solution: In view of Fig. 1.38, x will be minimum only when l corresponds
to the maximum horizontal range, i.e.,
v · cos  · 2v sin  2 v sin 
l= ; = time of flight
g g
v2
l= sin 2
g
Now l will be maximum with larger value of 
lg
sin 2 = 2
v v

1 lg
 = sin –1 2 
2 v O
l
1 125 10
= sin–1
2 50 50
1 x
= sin–1 (0.5) = 15° or 75°
2 Fig. 1.38
The maximum value of  is thus 75°.
1.55. Two identical spherical balls are simultaneously thrown towards
each other from points P and Q horizontally separated by 8 m, and situated
at heights 4 and 8 m above the ground. One ball is thrown from P
KINEMATICS IN ONE AND TWO DIMENSIONS 37
horizontally with a speed of 8 m/s while the other is thrown downward
with an initial speed of v at an angle of 45° to the horizontal (Fig. 1.39).
The two balls collide in space. Calculate (i) the initial speed of ball thrown
from the point Q, (ii) coordinates of the point of collision and (iii) velocities
of the two balls before collision. g = 10 m/s2.
Solution: The paths of the two balls are shown in Fig. 1.39. The equation
of motion of ball projected from P is given by
1 2
8t = x and 4 – y = gt ; t = time taken
2
Similarly the equation of motion of
the ball projected from Q is given by
v cos 45 · t = (8 – x) and
1 2
8 – y = v sin 45 · t + gt
2
1 2 vt 1 2
Now 8 – 4 + gt = + gt
2 2 2
or 4 2 = vt Fig. 1.39

On substituting the value of vt in the equation of motion of the ball

projected from Q along the x axis, we have
4 2
=8–x
2
x=4m
Now 8t = x is the equation of motion of the ball thrown from P along
the x axis. On substituting the value of x in this equation we have
x
t= = 0.5 s
8
Further vt = 4 2
4 2
v= = 8 × 1.41 = 11.28 m/s
0.5
Now 4 – y is the coordinate of the point of collision O with respect
to P.
1
4–y= × 10 × 0.25 = 5 × 0.25 = 1.25 m (downward)
2
Thus the coordinate of point of collision O is (4, 2.75)
vP = velocity of ball projected from P at the point O (point of collision)
= 64 20 1.25 = 89 = 9.434 m/s
38 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

vQ = velocity of ball projected from Q at the point O (point of collision)

2 2
= 11.28 cos 45 11.28 sin 45 2 10 5.25

= 63.62 63.62 105

= 232.24
= 15.24 m/s
1.56. Three tortoises are located at the vertices of an equilateral triangle
of side a = 3 m. They start moving simultaneously with constant velocity
v = 1 m/s. The first heads for the second, the second for the third and the
third for the first, i.e., all the time they move in cyclic order. After what
time will they meet ?
Solution: Let three tortoises be located at the corners of the triangle ABC
(Fig. 1.40). A is moving towards B, B towards C and C towards A. In triangle
2 a a B
ABC, OA = OB = OC = 3 · =
3 2 3
The velocity of the tortoise at A can be
resolved along AO and perpendicular to AO.
Similarly the velocities of the tortoise at B
and C can be resolved respectively along BO
and perpendicular to BO, and CO and O
perpendicular to CO. The velocity of the
tortoise along AO = velocity along A C
v 3 Fig. 1.40
BO = velocity along CO = v cos 30 = .
2
With this velocity, the three tortoise will meet at O.
distance AO or BO or CO
Time taken by a tortoise = t = =
velocity v 3/2
a 2 2a
= × =
3 v 3 3v
On substituting the values of a and v we have
2 3
t= × = 2s
3 1
 2
PARTICLE DYNAMICS

2.1. Two blocks of mass 3 m and m are placed in contact on a frictionless

horizontal table. A force F is applied to the block of mass 3 m as shown in
the Fig. 2.1. Find the force of contact. What will be the force of contact if
the force is applied on the block of mass m ?
Solution: Let a be the acceleration of the system as a whole. Then we
have
F = (3m + m) a
F
or a =
4m
Force of contact F 1 in this Fig. 2.1
condition = Force exerted on
block of mass m
F F
or F1 = m × = N
4m 4
If the force is applied on the block of mass m, then the force of contact
F2 = foce exerted on block of mass 3m.
F 3F
or F2 = 3m × = N
4m 4
2.2. A sphere of mass m = 3 g fitted on smooth rod of lenth 2l = 1 m can
slide freely along its length. Initially the rod containing the sphere at its
middle is at rest. Now it executes a translational motion with a constant
acceleration a = 2 m/s2 making an angle  = 60°
with it (see Fig. 2.2). Find: (i) the reaction force
exerted by the rod on the sphere and (ii) the time
at which the sphere will leave the rod.
N

a
Solution: (i) The force acting on the sphere is ma.

2l

The component of ma perpendicular to the

length of the rod is the reaction force and is equal
to ma sin , i.e.,
N = m a sin 
3 Fig. 2.2
= 3 × 10–3 × 2 × = 3 × 10–3 N
2
40 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

(ii) The component force ma cos  will provide motion to the sphere
along the length of the rod. The acceleration along the length of the
rod = a cos . Now, according to the laws of motion,
1
l=0+ a cos  t2
2
where t is the time taken by the sphere to traverse a length l.
2l
t= a cos
On substituting the values we have
2 0.5
t= =1s
2 0.5
2.3. Find the magnitude of the force F
required to keep the mass m in equilibrium F
on an incline plane (see Fig. 2.3). The 
coefficient of friction is µ. m

Solution:
F cos  + µ mg cos  = mg sin 
mg  sin    cos  
or F = Fig. 2.3
cos 
2.4. Two masses m1 and m2 connected through a massless and inextensible
strings are placed on a smooth cylindrical surface as shown in Fig. 2.4a & b.
Find the angle of equilibrium.
Solution: In Fig. 2.4a take moment about O.
m2gr sin  = m1g · r cos ; r = radius of cylinder
m
tan  = 1
m2
m1
or  = tan–1
m2

Fig. 2.4a Fig. 2.4b

PARTICLE DYNAMICS 41
In Fig. 2.4b take moment about O.
m2g.r sin  = m1gr
m1
 sin  =
m2
m1
or  = sin–1
m2
2.5. A particle moves along the path r = 3. If the angle  = t 2 rad find the
velocity of the particle when  = 45°.
Solution:  = t2,  = 2t
r = 3t2, r = 6t

r   3 · 2    6  
2 2 2
v=  r2 =

3.143 36 3.14
= 36 3  36  = 36
64 4
= 17.4 28.26 = 6.75 m/sec
2.6. Two incline planes marked as 1 and 2 coincides with the cords of a
circle of radius R (see Fig. 2.5). An object slides down along each plane
without any initial velocity. Show that the time of sliding along both the
planes is same.
Solution: In view of the Fig. 2.5 length of
plane 1 = 2R sin  and length of plane
2 = 2R sin .
Equation of motion of the object
O
along the plane is given by
h2
1
2R sin  = g sin · t12 R
2 2
1 h1 
1
and 2R sin  = g sin · t 22 
2
From the two equation we have Fig. 2.5
t1 = t2.
2.7. A particle moves along a straight path and is acted upon by a resistive
force which is proportional to the cube of the instantaneous speed. The
v
initial speed is v0 and after a lapse of time  the speed is 0 . Find the
2
speed after the time 5.
mdv
Solution: = – kv 3
dt
42 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

vo
2 
dv
v0
m
v3
=   kdt
0

vo
m 1 2
= k
2 v2 v0

m 3
· = k
2 v02
V 5
mdv
Further v v 3 =   kdt
0 0

m  1 1
 2  2  = 5 k
2 V v0 
m  1 1 m 3
or  2  2 = 5× × 2
2 V v0  2 v0
1 16
2 =
V v02
v
or V = 0
4
2.8. A ball of mass m starts moving from rest from the point O along the
track OCB (see Fig. 2.6). Find the reaction R on the ball at C if the curve
 x  l
OCB is defined by equation y = h sin   where h = .
 l 3
 x  O
Solution: y = h sin   x
 l 
l/2
dy h  x  y
= · cos  
dx l  l 
l dy
with x = i.e. at C, =O h
2 dx
x
d2 y h· 2  x 
Now, = – sin  
dx 2 l2  l  B mg y
C
d2 y h 2 2 Fig. 2.6
at C, 2 =– 2 =–
dx l 3l

d2 y
1 dx 2 2
= =– e  is negative..
here
 2
3
2
3l
dy
1
dx
PARTICLE DYNAMICS 43
mv 2
Equation of motion is R – mg =

2mgh 2
or R = mg + ; v = 2gh

l 2
= mg + 2mg · ×
3 3l
 2 2 
= mg 1  
 9 
2.9. A block of mass m slides down a frictionless incline of angle , mass
M and length L which is on a horizonal frictionless plane. The block starts
from rest from the top of the incline. How long the block will take to reach
to the bottom ?
Solution: Let s be the position of the block of mass m at any time t and 
be the position of the centre of mass.
The acceleration along
the plane is given by y axis

d2s d 2  cos  s
2 –
dt dt 2 m
= g sin 
No net force is acting along x M
axis therefore the net momentum 
x axis
along the horizontal direction = 0 Fig. 2.7
d ds
(M + m) – m cos  · =0
dt dt
2 m cos  d 2 s
On differentiation d 2 =
dt ( M  m) dt 2
d 2 s m cos  d 2 s
2

Now – · 2 = g sin 
dt 2 M m dt
2
d s ( M  m) g sin 
 2 =
dt M  m sin2 
On integration we have
1 ( M  m) g sin  2
s=L= ·t
2 M  m sin2 
2L  M  m sin2  
t=
 M  m  g sin 
2.10. A thin uniform chain is held vertically above a table with its lower
end just touching it. The mass of the chain is m and its length is l. The
44 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

chain is released. Calculate the force that the chain exerts on the table t
seconds after it is released.
Solution: Let the upper end moves through x.
velocity v = 2gx
1 2
The length of the chain lying on the table in time t = gt .
2
Now there are two forces which will act (i) the weight of the portion of
the chain lying on the table (ii) the force due to impact.
m
Momentum imparted to the table = · dx v
l
m v mv 2 x
Force due to impact = · dx · = = 2mg l
l dt l l
m
Weight of the chain of length x = ·x·g
l
3mgx 3 m 22
Net force = = · ·g t Fig. 2.8
l 2 l
2.11. Two blocks A of mass 8 kg and
B of 4 kg are attached through a
massless string are placed as shown
in Fig. 2.9. Block B falls through 50 cm
from rest. Determine its speed if
(i) there is no friction (ii) the
coefficient of friction between block
A and the horizontal plane is 0.25.
Solution:
(i) T = 8a Fig. 2.9

4g – T = 4 a
g
On adding the two a =
3
g g
Now v2 = 0 + 2 × × 0.5 =
3 3
v = 1.81 m/sec
(ii) T – 0.25 × 8g = 8a
4g–T = 4a
on adding 2g = 12a
g
a =
6
PARTICLE DYNAMICS 45

g g
v2 = 0 + 2 ×
× 0.5 =
6 6
v = 1.28 m/sec
2.12. Two particle each of mass m are connected by a light string of length
2L as in Fig. 2.10a. A continuous force F is applied at the mid point of the
string (x = 0) at right angles to the initial position of the string. Show that
the acceleration of m is directed at right angles to F is given by
F x
a=
2m L2 x 2
where x is the perpendicular distance of one of the particles from the line
of action of F.

Fig. 2.10a Fig. 2.10b

Solution: Let the mid point O be the displaced downwards through y.

Along this direction we have
2T cos  – F = 0; T = tension in the string.
F
or T =
2 cos 
Further in the horizontal direction we have
T sin  = ma
T sin 
or a =
m
F
= · tan 
2m
F x
= ·
2m L 2
x2
2.13. Two block P & Q of masses 6 kg and 4 kg respectively are connected
through a rope of mass 2 kg. The two masses are placed on a frictionless
46 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

plateform as in Fig. 2.11. The system of the blocks is pulled in the forward
direction by a force of 60 N applied on the block P. Find the acceleration
of the system and tension in the rope at A, B and C.
Solution: The common
acceleration of the system is
given by
F 60
a= = = 5 m/sec2 Fig. 2.11
Total mass 12
Tension at A is the force required to pull the block Q along with the
rope. The total mass = 6 kg.
TA = 6 × 5 = 30 N.
Tension at B is the force requird to pull the block Q along with the
portion BC at the rope. Total mass = 5 kg.
TB = 5 × 5 = 25 N
Tension at C = TC = 4 × 5 = 20 N
2.14. What is the tension in a rod of length L and mass M at a distance y
from F 1 when the rod is acted on by two unequal forces F 1 and
F2 (< F1) as shown in Fig. 2.12. (IIT 1978, 1993)
Solution: The acceleration of the rod is given by
F1 F2
a=
M
Let T be the tension at O. For the motion of part OP we have
M
F1 – T = ·y·a Q O y P
L
M F F2 T T F1
 T = F1 – ·y· 1 F2
L M L
y F2 y Fig. 2.12
T = F1 1 +
L L
2.15. Block A of mass m and block B of mass 2m are placed on a fixed
triangular wedge by means of a massless in extensible string and a
frictionless pulley as shown in Fig. 2.13. The wedge is inclined at 45° to
the horizontal on both sides. The
coefficient of friction between block
2
A and the wedge is and that
3
between block B and the wedge is
1
. If the system of A and B is
3
released from rest, find
Fig. 2.13
PARTICLE DYNAMICS 47
(i) The acceleration of A.
(ii) Tension in the string.
(iii) The magnitude and direction of the force of friction acting on A.
(IIT 1997)
Solution: Equation of motion of the two blocks is given by
1
2ma = 2mg sin 45 – T – 2mg cos 45 ×
3
2
ma = T – mg sin 45 – mg cos 45 ×
3
On adding we have
mg 4 mg
3ma = –
2 3 2
This equation suggests that a is negative, which is not possible. Here
the force of friction is large and therefore the masses will not move.
 Acceleration of A = acceleration of B = 0
2mg
(ii) 2mg sin 45 = T + · cos 45
3
4mg
T=
3 2
4mg mg
(iii) For block A, T = up the plane and down the plane
3 2 2
4mg mg mg
f= – = down the plane..
3 2 2 3 2
2.16. A particle of mass m is moving in a circular path of constant radius
r such that its centripetal acceleration ac is varying with time tc as ac = k2rt2
where k is a constant. What is the power delivered to the particle by the
force acting on it. (IIT 1994)
v2
Solution: ac = = k2rtt2
r
1 1
Kinetic enrgy = mv2 = mk2r2t2
2 2
d 1
Power P = mk 2r 2t 2 = mk2r2t
dt 2
2.17. A smooth semi-circular wire-track of radius R is fixed in a vertical
3R
plane (Fig. 2.14a). One end of a massless spring of natural length is
4
attached to the lowest point O of the wire-track. A small ring of mass m,
which can slide on the track, is attached to the other end of the spring.
The ring is held stationary at point P such that the spring makes an angle
mg
of 60° with the vertical. The spring constant K = . Consider the instant
R
48 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

when the ring is released and (i) draw the free body diagram of the ring
(ii) determine the tangential acceleration of the ring and the normal
reaction.

a b
Fig. 2.14

Solution: OP = 2R cos 60 = R
3R R
Stretch in the spring = R – =
4 4
mg R mg
Spring force F = × =
R 4 4
5g 3
Tangential force = F sin 60 + mg sin 60 =
8
Radial force = N + F cos 60 – mg cos 60
Since the radial force is zero
 N = mg cos 60 – F cos 60
mg 1
= mg ×
4 2
3
= mg
8
2.18. Two small solid spheres of masses m1 and m2 (m1 > m2) are attached
through a thread and thrown over a pulley of mass M. Find (i) the common
acceleration a (ii) the tensions T1 & T2 of the threads.
Solution:
(i) The equation of motion of the spheres is given by
m1g – T1 = m1a
T2 – m2g = m2a
Mr2
and (T1 – T2) r = 
2
PARTICLE DYNAMICS 49
Ma
or (T1 – T2) =
2
(m1 – m2) g – (T1 – T2) = (m1 + m2) a

m1 m2 g
or a =
M
m1 m2
2
m1 m1 m2 g
(ii) T1 = m1g –
M
m1 m2
2
M
m1 g 2m2
2 Fig. 2.15
=
M
m1 m2
2
M
m2 g 2m1
m2 m1 m2 g 2
T2 = m2g + =
M M
m1 m2 m1 m2
2 2
2.19. A ball of mass m attached by a string AB of length l is placed on a
sphere of radius r as shown in the Fig. 2.16. The point of suspension A is
at a distance d from the surface of the sphere. Find (i) the tension in the
string (ii) the reaction force which the sphere acts on the ball.
Solution: In view of the various forces we have
T cos  + N cos  = mg
and T sin  = N sin 
x x
N· =T·
r l
Tr
or N =
l
On substituting this value we have
r
T cos  + T · cos  = mg
l
 d  p r r  p  
T·   ·  = mg
 l l r 
d r
T = mg
l
l
 T = mg ·
d r Fig. 2.16
r
and N = mg ·
d r
50 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

2.20. A particle of mass m is projected vertically upward with a velocity v0

in a medium whose resistance is kv. Determine (i) the time for the particle
to come to rest (ii) the maximum height attained.
Solution: (i) Equation of motion of the particle
mdv
= – (kv + mg)
dt
v0 t1
dv
=  dt
k
0 g v 0
m
m v 0k
t1 = log 1
k mg
mdv mdv
(ii) = · v = – (mg + kv)
dt dh
mvdv
or = – dh
mg kv
Put mg + kv = 
kdv = d 
mg
   mg  h

 m d = dh
mg  kvo
k2 0

m mg kv0
or h = kv0 mg log
k2 mg
2.21. An auto vehicle of mass m moves along a horizontal track. At a certain
instant the engine is turned off. The resistive force that acts on it is  + v2
where  and  are positive constants and v is instantaneous speed. Find
(i) the time taken by the vehicle to come to rest (ii) the distance travelled
by it.
Solution:
mdv
(i) = – ( + v2)
dt
0 t
mdv
v   2  = dt
0
  v  0

 

m  
t= tan–1  vo  
   
PARTICLE DYNAMICS 51

mdv mdv
(ii) =  · v = – ( + v2)
dt d
0 S
mvdv
v   v2 = 0  d
0

m  v 02 
S= log  1   
2  
2.22. A mass m moves along a straight path under the action of a force F.
During motion it experiences a resistive force equal to kv2 where k is
constant and v is the instantaneous speed. Find the distance travelled
when its speed changes from v1 to v2.
Solution:
mdv mdv
= · v = F – kv2
dt dx
v2 S
mvdv
= dx
v1
F kv 2 O

m F kv12
S= log
2k F kv 22
2.23. A point P moves on a circular path in the counter clockwise direction.
The length of the arc sweeped out is defined by relation s = t3 + 3. The
radius of the circle is r = 4 m. Determine the component velocities and
accelerations.
y axis
Solution: Length of the arc = 4 m
S
 = = 1 rad = 57.3°
r P
d 3t 2
 = = = 0.75 rad/sec
dt 4
Now x = r cos  and y = r sin 
dx
vx = = – r sin  
x axis
dt x
= – 4 × 0.75 sin 57.3°
Fig. 2.17
= – 2.52 m/sec
dy
vy = = r cos  = 4 × 0.75 cos 57.3° = 1.62 m/sec
dt
d2 x
ax = = – r2 cos  – r sin · 
dt 2
6t
= – 4 × 0.752 × cos 57.3° – 4 sin 57.3° × 1.5;  = = 1.5
4
= – 1.21 – 5.049 = – 6.26 m/sec 2
52 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

d2 y
ay = = – r sin  + r cos ·
dt 2
= – 4 × 0.752 sin 57.3° + 4 × cos 7.3° × 1.5
= – 1.89 + 3.24 = 1.35 m/sec2
2.24. A body of mass m, thrown at angle  to the horizontal plane with an
initial velocity v0 moves under the action of the force of gravity and the
force of resistance R = – rv. Determine the height h and the distance s to
the base of the maximum height along the horizontal plane.
Solution: For maximum height
mdv
= – (mg + rv v)
dt
mdv
or · v = – (mg + rvv)
dx
mvdv
or – = dx
mg rv
Put mg + rv = p
m p mg
– dp = dx
r2 p
On integration we have
m
– 2 [p – mg log p] = x
r
m
or – 2 mg  rv  mg log (mg  rv ) v sin  = x 0
0 h

r o

m
or – 2 [mg – mg log mg – mg – rv v0 sin  + mg log (mg + rv0 sin )] = h
r
m m2 g rvo sin
or h = v0 sin  – 2 log 1
r r mg
For horizontal distance x
mdv
= – rv
v
dt
mdv
or = rdt
v
rt
log v = – +c
m
At t = 0, v = v0 cos ,  c = log v0 cos 
rt
Therefore log v = – + log v0 cos 
m
or v = v0 cos  e –rt/m
PARTICLE DYNAMICS 53
On integration we have
m
x=– v cos  · e–rtt/m + c
r 0
m
At t = 0, x = 0;  c = v cos 
r 0
m
x= · v0 cos  (1 – e–rtt/m)
r
For vertical distance y
mdv
= – (mg + rv v)
dt
mdv
– = dt
mg rv
On integration we have
m
log (mg + rv v) = – t + c0
r
rt
or log (mg + rv) = – +c
m
At t = 0; v = v0 sin  c = log (mg + r v0 sin )
 mg  rv  rt
 log   =–
 mg  rv0 sin   m
dy  mg  rt mg
or v = =  v0 sin   e m –
dt  r  r
On further integration
m  mg  rt mgt
y=–   v0 sin   e m – + c1
r  r  r
m  mg 
At t = 0, y = 0;  c1 =   v0 sin  
r  r 
m  mg  rt mgt
or y =  vo sin    1 e –
m
r  r  r
For horizontal distance s.
Time of flight t = t1 + t2 where t1 = time for going up and t2 = time for
coming down
mdv
= – (mg + rv v)
dt
mdv
– = dt
mg  rv
54 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

On integration
m
– log (mg + rvv) = t + c1
r
m
At t = 0, v = v0 sin c1 = – v0 sin )
log (mg + rv
r
m  mg  r v0 sin  
or t = log  
r  mg  rv 
At t = t1, v = 0;
m  r vo sin  
 t1 = log  1  
r  mg 
For downward journey
mdv
= mg – rvv
dt
mdv
= dt
mg rv
On integration we have
m
– · log (mg – rvv) = t + c
r
m
At t = 0, v = 0;  c = – · log mg
r
m mg
or t = log
r mg rv
m mg
At t = t2, v = v0 sin ;  t2 = log
r mg  rvo sin 
m  mg  rv0 sin  
 Total time t = t1 + t2 = log  
r  mg  rvo sin  
x
Further s =
2

mv0 cos   mg - rv0 sin   mg  rv0 sin 

= 1  ;1 – = 1 – e– rtt/m
2r  mg  rv0 sin   mg  rv0 sin 

v02 sin 2
=
 rv 
2 g 1  0 sin  
 mg 
PARTICLE DYNAMICS 55
2.25. A mass M with no initial velocity falls from a height H onto a helical
spring. The mass forces the spring to contract by h. What is the time of
contraction if we neglect the action of forces of resistance and consider
the mass of the spring to be negligible?
Solution:
mdv
= mg – Kx;
dt
1
mg (H + h) = Khh2
2
2mg ( H h)
K=
h2
dv 2 g ( H h)
=g– x
dt h2 Fig. 2.18
dv dv 2 g ( H h)x
= ·v=g–
dt dx h2
2g ( H  h)
or  vdv =  g · dx   xdx
h2
2 g (H  h)x 2
v2 = 2gx – +c
h2
At x = 0, v = v0  c = v02

Further v0 = 2gH

dx 2 g ( H h)x 2
v= = 2 gh 2 gx
dt h2

h dx
· = dt
2
2 g (H h) Hh h2 x 2
x
H h H h

h dx
= 1
= dt
2 g (H h) 2 4 2
2 2
Hh h h
x
H h 4( H h)2 2( H h)

On itegration
h
h2
x
h 1 2 ( H h)
t=– sin 1
2g ( H h) h
h2 4( H h) H 2
2( H h) 0
56 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

h  1 h 
=   sin 
2 g (H h)  2 h  2H 

h  h 
  tan
-1
= 
2 g (H h)  2 2 H ( H  h) 

2.26. A mass m falls in air without any initial velocity. Assuming the force
of air resistance to be proportional to the second power of velocity,
R = rv2, find the velocity and position of the mass as function of time.
Solution: The equation of motion is given by
mdv
= mg – rv
v2
dt
dv
or = gdt
r
1 · v2
mg

r
put ·v=p
mg
mg dp
· = gdt
r 1  p2
dp rg
or = · dt
1 p2 m
1  dp dp  rg
   = dt
2 1  p 1  p  m
On integration we have
1 1 p rg
or log = ·t+C
2 1 p m

r
1 ·v
1 mg rg
or log = ·t  C
2 r m
1 ·v
mg
At t = 0, v = 0;  C = 0

r rg
tan h–1 ·v= ·t
mg m
mg rg
or v= tan h ·t
r m
PARTICLE DYNAMICS 57

dx mg rg
v = = · tan h ·t
dt r m
mg rg
dx = · tan h · t · dt
r m

mg
r rg
x = · log cos h · t + Co
rg m
m

m rg
x = log cos h · t + Co
r m
at t = 0, x = 0;  Co = 0
m rg
or x= · log cos h ·t
r m
2.27. A particle of mass m moves in the x y plane under the action of a
force F of constant magnitude rotating clockwise in the plane at a constant
angular velocity . At the initial moment the force is directed along the
x axis and the particles velocity is v0. Find the momentum of the particle
as a function of time.
Solution:
mdv x
= F cos t · i
dt
F
mvx = i · sin t + A

At t = 0, vx = v0;  A = mv0
F
 mvx = mv0 + i · sin t

mdv y Fig. 2.19
= – F sin t . j
dt
F
mvy = cos t · j + B

F
At t = 0, vy = 0;  B = –
F
mvy = – (1 – cos t) j

F F
p = mv0 + i sin t – j (1 – cos t)
 
58 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

2.28. The speed of a particle is determined in terms of distance s that it

has travelled via equation v = v0 – bs where b is constant. Find the value of
s and v as a function of time.
ds
Solution: v = = v0 – bs
dt
ds
or = dt
vo bs
log (v0 – bs) = – bt + C
At t = 0, s = 0;  C = log v0
bs
or log 1 = – bt
v0
vo
or s= (1 – e–bt)
b
ds
= v = v0 e–bt
dt
2.29. A jet of water with a sectional area A = 6 cm2 strikes a wall at an
angle of  = 60° to the normal and rebounds elastically from the wall
without change in velocity. Find the force acting on the wall if the velocity
of water in the jet is v = 12 m/sec.
Solution: Mass of water flowing per sec = Av
Momentum of water flowing per sec = p = Av2
Incident normal momentum per sec = Av2 · cos 60
Reflected normal momentum per sec = – Av2 cos 60
Force = 2 Av2 cos 60 = Av2
= 6 × 10–4 × 1000 × 144 Fig. 2.20
= 86.4 N
x y
2.30. The potential energy of a particle has the form U = a where
e
y z
a is constant. Find (i) the force acting on the particle, (ii) the work done
on the particle is going from (1, 1, 1) to (2, 2, 4).
Solution:
dU a dU a a
(i) Fx = – = – , Fy = – = 2 +
dx y dy y z
dU ay
and Fz = – =– 2
dz z
a a a ay
F=– i+ j – 2k
y y2 z z
PARTICLE DYNAMICS 59
U at 1, 1, 1 = 0
1 a
U at 2, 2, 4 = a 1 =
2 2
a
Work done = –
2
2.31. A block of mass m = 400 kg placed on a 30° incline plane is acted
upon by a force of F = 4800 N at an angle of 30° with the incline see
Fig. 2.21. The coefficient of friction between the block and plane is
µ = 0.2. Find the acceleration of the block.
Solution: The equation of motion of the block is given by
400 a = 4800 cos 30 – 400 g sin 30 – µN m
where N = 4800 sin 30 + 400 g cos 30
F
= 2400 + 3394.72
= 5794.72
400 a = 4156.8 – 1960 – 1158.9
1037.9 30
a=
400
Fig. 2.21
= 2.6 m/sec2
2.32. A particle of mass 2 kg has a velocity of v1 = (3i – 12tj) m/sec and
another particle of mass 3 kg has velocity v2 = 2i m/sec. At an instant
t = 0.5 sec find the velocity and acceleration of the centre of mass.
Solution:
2 3 3 2
x component of the velocity of cm = = 2.4
5
62  30
y component of the velocity of cm = = – 2.4
5
 vcm = (2.4 i – 2.4 j) m/sec
x component of the acceleration of cm = 0
2   12  0
y component of the acceleration of cm =
5
= – 4.8 m/sec2
acm = – 4.8 j
2.33. Two blocks of masses 2 kg & 3 kg connected through a spring are
placed on a frictionless horizontal table (see Fig. 2.22). An initial velocity
of 10 m/sec is imparted to the 2 kg block in the direction of 3 kg block.
Determine (i) the velocity of the centre of mass (ii) the velocities of the
two blocks after the kick in the reference of centre of mass.
60 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution: 2kg 3kg

2 10
(i) vcm = = 4 m/sec
5
Fig. 2.22
(ii) v1 = velocity of 2 kg mass
= 10 – 4 = 6 m/sec
v2 = velocity of 3 kg mass = 0 – 4 = – 4 m/sec
2.34. Two blocks of masses m1 & m2 connected by a spring of force constant
K are placed on a smooth horizontal surface. Initially the blocks are at
rest. A constant horizontal force F is applied on the block of mass m2 as
shown in Fig. 2.23. Neglecting the mass of the spring find the extension
produced in it.
Solution: Acceleration of centre
of mass is given by
F Fig. 2.23
acm =
m1 m2
A force F1 = m1 a acts towards left.
m1 F
F1 =
m1 m2
m2 F
Similarly a force F2 = m2a = acts on block of mass m2.
m1 m2
m2 F m1 F
Net force acting on m2 = F = F – F2 = F – =
m1 m2 m1 m2
Amount of work done by these forces will be equal to
m1 F x1 x2
F1x1 + F' · x2 =
m1 m2
This will be equal to increase in potential energy hence
m1 F x1 x2 1
= K (x1 + x2)2
m1 m2 2
2m1 F
or x1 + x2 =
K m1 m2
2.35. A prism of height h and mass m
M holding a small block of mass m
is kept on a smooth horizontal
surface as shown in the Fig. 2.24. As h
the mass slides the prism starts M
moving. Find the distance covered 
by the prism when the block reaches
Fig. 2.24
at the bottom.
PARTICLE DYNAMICS 61
Solution:
md1 – Md2 = 0
d1 = displacement of block of mass m
d2 = displacement of prism.
d1 + d2 = h cot 
M
d2 1 = h cot 
m
mh cot
d2 =
M m
2.36. A pulley fixed to a support carries a
massless thread with spheres of masses m1
and m2 attached at its ends as shown in the
Fig. 2.25. Neglecting the mass of the pulley
find the acceleration of the centre of mass.
Solution: The position of the centre of mass
is given by
m1 y1 m2 y 2
y cm = ; y 1 and y 2 are the
m1 m2
positions of the two masses.
Velocity of centre of mass is given by
m1 dy1 m2 dy 2

vcm = dt dt
m1  m2
Acceleration of the centre of mass is given
by Fig. 2.25

m1 m2 d 2 y1 d 2 y2
acm = a; a = =
m1 m2 dt 2 dt 2
The equation of motion of the two spheres is given by
m1a = m1g – T
m2a = T – m2g
m1 m2
a= g
m1 m2
On substituting the value of a the acceleration of centre of mass is
given by
2
m1 m2
acm = ·g
m1 m2
62 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

2.37. Two spheres of masses m1 and m2 connected by a massless spring

forms a system as shown in the Fig. 2.26. They fall under earth’s
gravitational field with initial velocities v1 and v2 respectively. Calculate
the total momentum and radius vector of the centre of inertia.
Solution: The position of the centre of mass
is given by
m1 y1 m2 y2
y cm = ; y 1 and y 2 are the
m1 m2
positions of the two masses. Fig. 2.26
dy
(m1 + m2) cm = Total momentum
dt
dy1 dy 2 dy1 dy 2
= m1 + m2 ; and are the velocities
dt dt dt dt
of the two masses after time t.
= m1 (v1 + gt) + m2 (v2 + gt)
= (m1v1 + m2v2) + (m1 + m2) gt
= po + (m1 + m2) gt; po = total initial momentum.
dycm mv m2v2
= 1 1 + gt
dt m1 m2
m v m2v2
= v0 + gt; v0 = 1 1
m1 m2
On integration we have
1 2
ycm = vo t + gt
2
2.38. A closed system consists of two particles of masses m1 and m2 moving
at right angles to each other with velocities v1 and v2 respectively. Calculate
(i) the momentum of the two particles (ii) the total kinetic energy in the
frame of reference of centre of inertia.
Solution: (i) Let us assume that particles of masses m1 and m2 are moving
along x and y axis respectively.
m1v1
x component of vcm =
m1  m2
m2v2
y component of vcm =
m1 m2
x component of velocity of particle of mass m1 in the reference frame
m1v1 v1m2
of centre of mass = v1 – =
m1  m2 m1  m2
m1m2v1
Momentum of particle of mass m1 along x axis =
m1 m2
PARTICLE DYNAMICS 63
m1m2v2
Similarly the momentum of particle of mass m1 along y axis =
m1  m2
m1m2
Net momentum = v12 v22
m1  m2
y component of velocity of particle of mass m2 in the reference frame
m2v2 m1v2
of centre of mass = v2 – =
m1 m2 m1 m2
mm v
Momentum of particle of mass m2 along y axis = 1 2 2
m1 m2
mm v
Similarly the momentum of particle of mass m2 along x axis = 1 2 1
m1 m2
m1m2
Net momentum = v12 v22
m1 m2
(ii) Total kinetic energy of the two particles is equal to
2 2 2
1 m2v1 1 m2v2 1 m1v1
E = m1 + m1 + m2
2 m1 m2 2 m1 m2 2 m1 m2
2
1 m1v2
+ m2
2 m1 m2
1 m1m2
= 2 m2v12 m2v22 m1v12 m1v22
2 m1 m2
1 m1m2
= v12 v22
2 m1 m2
2.39. A 6 kg goat standing on a boat is at a distance of 12 m from the
shore. The goat moved through a distance of 5 m on the boat towards the
shore and then halts. Assuming the mass of boat equal to 24 kg determine
the position of the goat from the shore. Neglect the friction between the
boat and water.
Solution: Let d1 be the displacement of the goat and d2 be the displacement
of the boat, then
d1 + d2 = 5
Further
6 · d1 = 24 (5 – d1)
30 d1 = 24 × 5
24  5
 d1 = =4m
30
Initially the goat was 12 m away from the shore. Its position will now
be 12 – 4 = 8 m from the shore.
64 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

2.40. Three particles of masses m1, m2 and m3 are moving along x, y and z
axes with velocities, v1, v2 and v3 respectively. Find the total kinetic energy
of the system about the centre of mass.
Solution: The x, y and z components of the velocity of centre of mass is
given by
m1v1 m2v2 m3 v 3
Vx = , Vy = and Vz =
m1  m2  m3 m1  m2  m3 m1  m2  m3
The component velocities of particle of mass m1 with respect to centre
of mass is given by
m1v1 m2v2 m3v3
v1 – , ,
m1 m2 m3 m1 m2 m3 m1 m2 m3
Similarly the component velocities of particle of mass m2 and m3 with
respect to centre of mass is given
m1v1 m2v2 m3v3
,v – ,
m1  m2  m3 2 m1  m2  m3  m1  m2  m3
m1v1 m2v2 m3v3
and , ,v –
m1 m2 m3 m1 m2 m3 3 m1 m2 m3
1 2
Total kinetic energy = m1 m2 m3 v12
2  m1  m2  m3 
2

 m1m22v22  m1m32v32 m2 m12v12

2
m2 m1 m3 v22 m2 m32v32 m3 m12v12
2
m3 m22v22 m3 m1 m2 v32
1
= m1m22v12 m1m32v12 2m1m2m3v12 m1m22v22
2  m1  m2  m3 
2

m1m32v32  m2 m12v12  m2 m12v22 + m2 m32 v22  2m1m2m3v22  m2 ·m32v32

 m3 m12v12  m3m2 v2  m3 m1 v3  m3 m2 v3  2m1m2 m3v3 

2 2 2 2 2 2 2

1
= m m m1  m2  m3   m1m3  m1  m2  m3   v12
2  m1  m2  m3 
2 1 2

 v22 m1m2 m1 m2 m3 m2 m3 m1 m2 m3

+ m1m3 m1  m2  m3   m3 m2  m1  m2  m3   v32 

1
=
2 m1 m2 m3
v12 m1m2 m1m3 v22 m1m2 m2 m3 v32 m1m3 m2m3
PARTICLE DYNAMICS 65

1
=
2 m1 m2 m3
2
m1m2 v 1 v22 m1m3 v12 v32 m2m3 v32 v22

1
= m1m2v12
2
 m1m3v13
2
 m2 m3v23
2

2 m1 m2 m3
where v12, v13 and v23 are the relative velocities.
2.41. A block of mass M with a semicircular track of radius R rest on a
horizontal frictionless surface. A uniform cylinder of radius r and mass m
is released from rest at the top point A (see Fig. 2.27). The cylinder slips in
the semi-circular frictionless track (a) How far the block moved when the
cylinder reaches the bottom (point B) of the track ? (b) How fast is the
block moving when the cylinder reaches the bottom of the track.
(IIT 1983)

Fig. 2.27

Solution: (a) The system is initially at rest hence Vcm = 0

Let v1 and v2 be the velocities of the cylinder and block at the point B
relative to the ground.
mv1  Mv2
=0
mM
 mv1 + Mv2 = 0
m r1 M r2
or + =0
dt dt
or mr1 + Mr2 = 0
or md1 = Md2
where r1 = d1 and r2 = d2, here d1 and d2 are opposite to each other.
When the cylinder moves from A to B it has a horizontal displacement
(R – r) towards right relative to the block. Let d2 be the displacement of
the block to the left relative to the ground. The displacement of the cylinder
relative to the ground is given by
66 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

d1 = (R – r) – d2
Now m [(R – r) – d2] = M·d2
m R r
 d2 =
( M m)
(b) According to conservation of energy we have
1 1
mg (R – r) = mv12 + M v22
2 2
2
1  M 2 1
or mg (R – r) = m ·  v2 + M v22
2  m 2
M M
mg (R – r) = 1 v22
2 m
2m2 g ( R r )
 v22 =
M ( M m)
2g ( R  r )
or v2 = m 
M ( M  m)

2.42. Two uniform thin rods A and B of lenth 0.6 m each and of mass
0.01 kg and 0.02 kg respectively are joined, end to end. The combination
is pivoted at the higher end P as shown in Fig. 2.28a such that it can freely
rotate about the point P in a vertical plane. A small object of mass 0.05 kg,
moving horizontally hits the lower end of the combination and sticks to
it. What should be the velocity of the object so that the system could be
raised to the horizontal position. (IIT 1994)
Solution: According to p p
conservation of angular
momentum we have
A MA A
mv · 2l = I
v = velocity of the object
where I is the moment of inertia
of the system about P. 2l

I = IA + IB + IC
IA = moment of inertia of bar B MB B
A about P and is equal to
m
1 v
I A = MA · l 2
3
1 Fig. 2.28a Fig. 2.28b
= × 0.01 × (0.6)2 = 1.2 × 10–3 kg.m2
3
PARTICLE DYNAMICS 67
IB = moment of inertia of bar B about P and is equal to
2
1 3l
IB = M · l 2 + MB
12 B 2
28
= M l2
12 B
28
= × 0.02 × (0.6)2
12
= 1.68 × 10–2 kg.m2
IC = moment of inertia of small object about P is equal to
IC = m · (2l)2
= 0.05 × (2 × 0.6)2
= 7.2 × 10–2 kg.m2
I = 9 × 10–2 kg.m2
m.v.2l
 =
I
0.05 v 2 0.6
=
9 10 2
2v
=
3
1
Further I2 = (m + MA + MB) Y · g, Y = centre of mass
2
l 3l
MA · MB · m · 2l
Y = 2 2
M A MB m
0.01 0.3 0.02 0.9 0.05 1.2
=
0.01 0.02 0.05
81
=
80
On putting the value of Y we have
2
1 2v 81
× 9 × 10–2 × = (0.05 + 0.01 + 0.02) × 9.8
2 3 80
On solving v = 6.3 m/sec
2.43. A rocket rising vertically up attains an altitude of 1500 m and a
velocity of 300 m/sec. It explodes into three fragments of equal mass. One
fragment moves vertically up with a speed of 400 m/sec. The second
fragment moves with a speed of 200 m/sec towards right and right angles
to the initial direction of motion. Find (i) the velocity of the third fragment
68 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

(ii) the position of the centre of mass with respect to the ground 4 sec
after the explosion.
Solution: Let us assume that the rocket is ascending along y axis.
Its initial momentum = M · 300 j; j = unit vector along y axis.
M M M
Final momentum = 200i 400 j v
3 3 3
According to conservation of momentum we have
M M M
M · 300 j = 200i 400 j v
3 3 3
or v = ( – 200 i + 500 j)
(ii) The forces due to explosion are internal. They will not affect the
motion of the centre of mass. The x component of the centre of mass will
not be affected. The y component of centre of mass is given by
1
y = 1500 + 300 × 4 – × 9.8 × 42
2
= (2700 – 78.4) m
= 2.62 km
2.44. A force F = t ( – t) is applied to a stationary body of mass m for a
time . Calculate (i) the momentum of the body when the force was
discontinued, (ii) the distance travelled by the body under the action of
force.
Solution:
m  dv
(i) = t ( – t)
dt
m · dv = t ( – t) dt
On integration we have
 t 2  t
3
mv = –
2 3
On putting  = t we have
3 t 3
mv = –
2 3
3
=
6
m  dx  2  t 3
(ii) = ·t –
dt 2 3
 2  3
m · dx = · t · dt – · t · dt
2 3
PARTICLE DYNAMICS 69
On integration
  t 3 
x= – · t4
6m 12m
On putting  = t, we have
  4   4
x= –
6m 12m
 4

=
12m
2.45. A particle of mass m initially at rest moves under the action of a
periodic force F = F0 sin t where F0 and  are positive constants. Find the
distance covered by the particle in time t.
Solution:
m  d2x
F = = F0 sin t
dt 2
d2x F
= 0 sin t
dt 2 m
On integration, we have
dx F
= – 0 cos t + A; A = constant of integration
dt m
dx
At t = 0, =0
dt
F
 A = 0
m
dx F
 = 0 (1 – cos t)
dt m
X F0  t t

or  0 dx = m   0 dt   0 cos t dt 
F0  sin t 
X = t
m   
F0
= [t – sin t]
m2
2.46. A particle of mass m initially at rest starts moving by an application
of a force F = F0 cos t. Where F0 and  are positive constants. Determine
(i) the time after which it will stop for the first time (ii) the distance moved
by the particle in this time (iii) the maximum velocity attained by the
particle over this distance.
70 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution:
(i) F = ma = F0 cos t
dv F
 = 0 · cos t
dt m
F
dv = 0 cos t · dt
m
On integration, we have
F0
v= · sin t + A
m
at t = 0, v = 0;  A = 0
F0
hence v = · sin t
m

Velocity v will be zero when t =


(ii) Time for the motion =

dx F
Now = 0 · sin t
dt m
/
X F0
 0
dx = 
0 m
· sin t · dt
 /
 F0
X= · cos t
m2 0

2F0
=
m2
F0
(iii) v = · sin t
m
dv F
= 0 = 0 · cos t
dt m
 
This is possible with t = or t =
2 2 
F0 
 vmax = · sin · 
m 2
F
= 0
m
2.47. A motor boat of mass m moving on a lake with velocity v0 experiences
a resistive force of water F = – rv. At an instant t = 0 the engine fails.
Determine (i) the time for which the boat will move after the failure of the
engine (ii) the velocity of boat when it has covered a distance s.
PARTICLE DYNAMICS 71
Solution:
m  dv
(i) F = = – rv
v
dt
v dv t rdt
 v0 v =  0  m
v rt
log =–
v0 m
rt
or v = v0 e m

From the above equation v = 0 when t = 

dv
(ii) m · = – rv
v
dt
dv dx
m· · = – rv
v
dx dt
rdx
– dv = –
m
v r s
 v0 dv = – m  0 dx
rs
v – v0 = –
m
rs
or v = v0 –
m
2.48. A particle of mass m is projected vertically up in the earths
gravitational field with an initial velocity v 0 . During its motion it
experiences a draging force F = kv2 due to air. Determine its velocity when
it comes down.
Solution: In going up the net force acting on the particle = (mg + kv2)
dv
Work done = m · · dx = – (mg + kv 2) dx
dt
0 h
mvdv
or – = dx ; h = height upto which it will reach.
v0 mg kv 2 0

m  mg 
or – log  2  = h
k  mg  kv0 
When the body comes down then the equation of motion is given by
dv
m· = (mg – kv 2)
dt
dv
or m · · dx = (mg – kv 2) dx
dt
72 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

v 0
mvdv
= dx
0
mg kv 2 h

m mg  kv 2
or – log =h
k mg

m mg  kv 2 m mg
hence – log =– log
k mg k mg  kv02

kv 2 mg
or 1 – =
mg mg kv02
mg kv 2
1– =
mg kv02 mg
mg kv02
kv' 2 =
mg kv02

v02
v' =
kv02
1
mg
v0
=
kv02
1 mg

2.49. A grain of sand of mass m initially at rest moves in a bucket of water

in the vertical downward direction. During its motion it experiences
a resistive force equal to kv where k is a positive constant. Determine
(i) the velocity of the grain at an insant t (ii) the force acting on the grain
at that instant.
Solution:
(i) The equation of motion is given by
mdv
= mg – kv
dt
mdv
or = dt
mg kv
m
or – log (mg – kv) = t + c; c = constt. of integration
k
At t = 0, v = 0
m
c=– log mg
k
PARTICLE DYNAMICS 73

m mg kv
or – log =t
k mg
kv kt
or 1 – =e m
mg
mg kt
or v = 1 e m
k
dv mg k kt
(ii) m · =m· × ·e m
dt k m
kt
= mg e m

2.50. Discuss the motion of a rocket with total mass m, moving with a
velocity v under the action of external forces.
Solution: Let v be the velocity of the rocket in
the upward direction. It momentum = mv. In
time t a mass m of gases is ejected from the
rocket. Let – vr be the downward velocity of
the gas ejected relative to the rocket
(see Fig. 2.29). The velocity v' of the gas relative
to the earth is equal to.
v' = – vr + v = v – vr
mv' = – m (vr – v)
At the end of the time t, the mass of the Fig. 2.29
rocket and the unburnt fuel decreases to
(m – m) and the velocity becomes v + v.
Change of momentum = [(m – m) (v + v) – m (vr – v)] – mv
= mv + mv – mv + mv – mvr + mv – mv
= mv – mvr
This must be equal to Fext ·t, hence
Fext · t = mv – mvr
m v m
or Fext = – · vr
t t
m
or ma = Fext + vr ·
t
mdv dm
or = – vr · + Fextxt ; dm = change in mass which is negative.
dt dt
(i) Assending rocket with Fext = mg
74 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Equation of motion is given by

mdv dm
= – vr – mg
dt dt
m0
v
dm t
dv =
m
 m
vr 
– g dt ; m0 is the mass of the rocket only..
0
v0
v0 = initial velocity.
m
v – v0 = vr · loge – gt
m0
m
or v = v0 + vr · loge – gt
m0
(ii) Ascending rocket subjected to thrust only i.e. Fext = 0
Equation of motion is given by
mdv dm
= – vr ·
dt dt
v m0
dm
or dv = – vr
v0 m
m
m0
v – v0 = – vr loge ·
m
m
or v = v0 + vr loge
m0
2.51. A rocket of mass m0 initially at rest moves by ejecting gas with a
velocity u relative to the rocket. The external force is absent. Find its
velocity when its mass becomes m.
Solution:
mdv dm
= –u + Fexternal
dt dt
dv dm
m· = –u ; Fexternal = 0
dt dt
v m
dm
or dv = – u
0 m0 m

m0
v = u loge
m
2.52. A rocket of mass m0 moves with a constant acceleration a in the
absence of external force by ejecting gas at a velocity u relative to the
rocket. In this process the mass of the rocket will continuously reduce.
Find the mass of the rocket at an instant t.
PARTICLE DYNAMICS 75
Solution:
dm
ma = – u + Fext
dt
t m
a dt dm
or = ; Fext = 0
0
u m0 m

at m
or – = loge
u m0
at
or m = m0 e u

2.53. A rocket of mass 3000 kg is set to fire in the vertical up direction.

The gas is ejected at a speed of 500 m/sec. Calculate the mass of the gas
ejected per sec in order (i) to overcome its weight (ii) to provide an initial
acceleration of 9.8 m/sec2 in the upward direction.
Solution:
dm
(i) ma = – u + mg = 0
dt
dm mg
 =
dt u
On putting the values, we have
dm 3000 9.8
= = 58.8 kg/sec..
dt 500
dm
(ii) m (g + a) = u ·
dt
dm m( g a )
or =
dt u
On putting the values, we have
dm 3000(9.8 9.8)
= = 12 × 9.8 = 117.6 kg/sec
dt 500
2.54. A rocket of mass m0 moves in the absence of external force by ejecting
gas with exhaust velocity of 1.6 km/sec. For what ratio of the mass of the
fuel to the mass of rocket it will attain a velocity of 11.2 km/sec.
Solution:
m
v = v0 + vr loge 0
m
v m
= loge 0 ; v0 = 0
vr m
11.2 m
= 7 = loge · 0
1.6 m
76 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

m0
or = e7
m
mass of fuel m m
or = 0 = e7 – 1 = 1096 – 1 = 1095
mass of rocket m
2.55. A cart containing m0 mass of water moves under the action of a
froce F along a horizontal plane. At the bottom of the cart there is a hole
through which water comes out at a constant velocity of µ kg/sec.
Assuming the initial velocity of the cart to be zero. Determine the velocity
and the acceleration of the cart as a function of time by neglecting the
frictional forces.
Solution:
F dv dv dm dv
= =– · =– ·µ
m dt dm dt dm
m0 0
dm
F·
m0 µt
m
=–µ  dv
v

m0
µV = F · loge
m0  t
F m0
V= · loge
 m0  t
dV F m0  t m0
= acceleration = × ×
 0  t )
2
dt m 0 (m
F
=
m0  t
2.56. A flat car of mass m0 initially at rest moves by applying a constant
force F on a horizontal plane surface (see Fig. 2.30). From a stationary
hopper sand spills on the car at a constant rate of µkg/sec. Neglecting the
force of friction determine the velocity and the acceleration of the car in
this process of adding mass every second.
Solution:
d
F= (mv)
dt
or Ft = mv + A
at t = 0, v = 0
A=0
hence F·t = mv
Now F·t = (m0 + µt)v' Fig. 2.30
PARTICLE DYNAMICS 77
F t
 v' =
m0  t
F d   t  
1
dv
Acceleration = = t   1   
dt m0 dt   m0  

F
= 2
 t 
m0  1  
 m0 

2.57. A sphere initially at rest rolls down a smooth hill consisting of curved
and straight paths from the point O situated at height h above the ground
(see Fig. 2.31). At what value of the height AB of the hill will sphere cover
maximum horizontal distance x along the straight path BC. What is this
distance equal to ?
Solution: Let AB = h1. In view of conservation of energy the velocity of the
sphere at A is given by v = 2g h h1

2h1
 x = v.t = 2g h h1 · = 2 h h1 h1 ;
g
t is the time taken for the free fall distance h1.
In the above equation x is a function of h1. Differentiate x with respect
to h1 and equate it to zero.

dx h h1 h1
= =0
dh1 h1 h h1
or h – 2h1 = 0
h
or h1 =
2
For this value of h1
Fig. 2.31
h h
x=2 =h
2 2
2.58. A block of mass m = 1 kg is placed on T
a plane inclined at an angle  = 60° with
the horizontal pulled by a string attached 
to it at an angle  with the plane (see m
Fig. 2.32a). The coefficient of friction k
between the block and the plane is equal
to 0.14. Find the angle  at which the
tension T in the string will be minimum. 
What is it equal to? Fig. 2.32a
78 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution: The various forces acting along 

T

and perpendicular to the plane are in os
Ts Tc
shown in Fig. 2.32b. The normal force N 
N = mg cos  – T sin . Under equilibrium
the forces along the plane are 
os
 mgc
represented by the equation. sin
mg
mg
mg sin  + fs = T cos  

where fs = frictional force Fig. 2.32b

= k (mg cos  – T sin )

On substituting the value of fs in the above equation, we have
mg sin  + k·mg cos  – kT sin  = T cos 
mg sin   k mg cos 
T=
(k sin   cos )
In the above equation T is a function of . Differentiate T with respect
to  and equate it to zero.
dT  (mg sin   k mg cos )(k cos   sin )
=
d (k sin   cos )2
dT
will be zero only when k cos  – sin  = 0
d
or tan  = k = 0.14
 = 8°

mg sin   k mg cos 
Now Tmin =
k /
2
 
1  k 2  1/ 1  k 2 
mg sin   k mg cos 
=
1  k2
On substituting the values of m, g,  and k, we have
3 1
9.8 0.14 9.8
Tmin = 2 2
1 (0.14)2
4.9 1.87
=
1.02
= 9.072 N
PARTICLE DYNAMICS 79
2.59. A body in the form of a small cubical block of mass m can move
freely without friction on a horizontal plane. The body is initially at rest
and starts moving when a force F = t,  being a positive constant applied
at an angle  = 60° with the horizontal at an instant t = 0 (see Fig. 2.33a).
Find (i) the time at which the body will detach from the plane and (ii) the
velocity acquired and the distance travelled by the body at the time of its
breaking off the plane.
Solution: With reference to Fig. 2.33b the
normal reaction force = mg – t sin .
When the body breaks off the plane the
normal reaction force is equal to zero.
Thus
Fig. 2.33a
mg =  t sin 
mg 2mg
or t = = s
 sin   3
In other words the body will break off
2mg
at a time t = s
 3 Fig. 2.33b
From Newton’s second law of motion, we have
d
(mv) =  t cos 
dt
t2
or mv =  cos  t dt =  cos  ·
2
 cos  mg cos 
2
m2 g 2
or v = 2 · =
 sin 2  2m 2  sin 2 
mg 2 2 mg 2
= × = m/s
2 3 3
ds 
Further v = = cos · t2
dt 2m
 cos   cos   t 3  cos  m 3 g 3
s= · t 2 dt = =
2m 6m 6m  3 sin 3 
m 2 g 3 cos 
=
6  2 sin 3 
m2 g 3 4 2m 2 g 3
= = m
6 2 3 3 9 2 3
2.60. A bar of mass m = 600 g lies on a smooth horizontal plane. The
bar is initially at rest but starts moving along the plane when a force
80 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

F = 1.96 N (constant in magnitude) is applied to it. The direction of the

force, making an angle  with the horizontal, is no longer constant but
varies directly with x, the distance covered by the bar according to the
equation  = ax where a is a positive constant. Find the velocity of the bar.
Solution: In Fig. 2.34, the driving force is F cos  = 1.96 cos · (ax). According
to Newton’s second law of motion,
dv
Force = m = 1.96 cos (ax)
dt
dv 1.96
or = cos (ax)
dt m
dv dx 1.96
or = cos (ax)
dx dt m
Fig. 2.34
1.96 dx
or vdv = cos (ax) dx; =v
m dt
On integrating the above equation we have

v2 1.96 2  1.96 98
= sin (ax) or v = sin  = sin 
2 ma 600  103  a 15a
2.61. A body of mass m = 1 kg is slowly pulled up by a force F (constant in
magnitude) along the surface of a hill as shown in Fig. 2.35. The coefficient
of friction k between the body and the plane is 0.1. Find the amount of
work done by this force if the height of the hill h = 4.5 m and the length of
its base l = 5 m.
Solution: A force F is applied on the body of mass m. Under equilibrium
we have
F = mg sin  + k mg cos 
Let the body moves through the dx along the hill. The amount of work
done by the force is given by
F · dx = (mg sin  + k mg cos ) dx
dh dl
dx = mg · dx + k mg · dx;
dx dx
dl dh
cos  = and sin  =
dx dx
Here dl and dh represent the
displacement along x and y axis
respectively.

Fig. 2.35
PARTICLE DYNAMICS 81
h l

Net work done = F dx =  mg dh  k mg dl = mg h + k mg l

0 0
= mg (h + kl)
On substituting the values of h, k, l, m and g, we have
Work done = 1 × 9.8 (4.5 + 0.1 × 5)
= 9.8 × 5
= 49 J
2.62. A body of mass M = 9.8 kg with a small disc of mass m = 200 g placed
on its horizontal surface ab, rests on a smooth horizontal plane (see
Fig. 2.36). The disc can freely move along the smooth groove abc of the
mass M. To what height (relative to its initial position) will the disc rise
after separating from the body M when an initial velocity v = 5 m/s is
given to it in the horizontal direction ? c
Solution: According to the law of
conservation of momentum, we
have mv = (M + m) v'; (v' is the m M
velocity with which the two a v
b
bodies in contact are moving)
mv
 v' = Fig. 2.36
M m
Loss in the kinetic energy of the disc
1 1
= mv2 – (M + m) v' 2
2 2
1 1 m 2v 2
= mv2 – (M + m)
2 2 ( M m)2
2
1 m 1 mMv
= mv2 1 =
2 M m 2 M m
With this energy the disc will move up to a height h after separating from
the body M, i.e.,
2
1 mMv
= mgh
2 M m
v2 M
or h =
2g M m
On substituting the values, we have
5 5 9.8
h= × = 1.25 m
2 9.8 10
82 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

2.63. Body A is placed on a wedge forming an angle  = 30° with the

horizontal (Fig. 2.37a). What is the acceleration that should be imported
to the wedge in the horizontal direction for body A to fall freely ?
Solution: Let an acceleration a be A
imparted to the wedge from right to
the left. The distance travelled by the
wedge in time t = AB = (1/2) at 2 .
During the same time t the body falls 
freely through a distance Fig. 2.37a
AA' = (1/2) gt2 (see Fig. 2.37b). A
AB a B 
Now cot  = =
AA g
 a = g cot  = 9.8 × cot 30 A

= 9.8 × 3  

= 16.97 m/s2 Fig. 2.37b

2.64. A body starting from the top of a right-angled prism slides down
along its hypotenuse AB (see Fig. 2.38a). The length of the base of that
prism is l. The coefficient of friction between the body and the surface AB
of the prism is k = 0.14. At what value of angle  will the body take the
least time for sliding down the surface ?
A
Solution: Various forces acting along and
perpendicular to the surface AB are
shown in Fig. 2.38b.
Normal reaction force = N = mg cos .
Frictional force = fs = k mg cos .
Net downward force along the

surface = mg sin  – k mg cos . B
Net downward acceleration along l
Fig. 2.38a
the surface = g sin  – kg cos .
Time taken to cover the surface AB is A fs
N
given by
1
l sec  = (g sin  – kg cos ) t 2
2
mg cos  m
2l g
si
or t = mg
n

g (sin cos k cos2 )
 B
Here t is a function of . Find out the l
dt Fig. 2.38b
value of and equate it to zero..
d
PARTICLE DYNAMICS 83

dt 2l d
= (sin  cos  – k cos2 )–1/2
d g dt
1 2l (cos 2   k sin 2 )
=–
2 g (sin  cos   k cos2 )3/2
On equating it to zero we have cos 2 + k sin 2 = 0
1 1
or tan 2 = – =–
k 0.14
 a = 49°
2.65. A right-angled triangular block
A has a body B of mass m placed on it
as shown in Fig. 2.39a. Block A is given
a horizontal acceleration a directed
towards the left. What is the
maximum value of this acceleration
so that B is stationary relative to A? Fig. 2.39a
The coefficient of friction µ is such 
sin
that µ < cot . m a N
µN
Solution: The various forces along
and perpendicular to the inclined
ma 
plane are shown in Fig. 2.39b. Normal
reaction force = mg cos  – ma sin .  
s s
The net force along the inclined co  co
a sin m
g
m g mg
plane should be equal to zero since m

there is no motion, i.e., mg sin  + ma
cos  = µN = µ (mg cos  – ma sin ) Fig. 2.39b
or ma (cos  + µ sin ) = mg (µ cos  – sin )
g   cos   sin   g   cot   1
or a = =
cos    sin  (cot   )
2.66. Prism 1 of mass m1 and with angle  (Fig. 2.40a) rests on a horizontal
surface.
Bar 2 of mass m2 is placed on the
prism. Assuming the friction to be
negligible, find the acceleration of the 2
prism.
Solution: The various forces are 1
shown in Fig. 2.40b. During the
descent of the mass m2 a downward
force m2 g sin  acts along the plane.
Fig. 2.40a
84 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Fig. 2.40b

On resolving the force m2 g sin  along two mutually perpendicular axes

we have a force m2 g sin  cos  parallel to the base of the prism and
m2 g sin2  acting perpendicular to the base of the prism. Thus the total
downward force = (m2 g sin2  + m1g).
Mass corresponding to this force = (m2 sin2  + m1).
According to Newton’s third law of motion we have,
m2 g sin  cos  = (m2 sin2  + m1) A
where A is the acceleration of the prism.
m2 g sin  cos 
A=
m2 sin2   m1
g sin  cos 
=
sin2   (m1 /m2 )
2.67. Two blocks of masses M1 and M2 are kept touching each other on
an inclined plane of inclination  with the horizontal (see Fig. 2.41a).
Show that (i) the force of interaction between the blocks is
 1  2  M1 M 2 g cos 
and (ii) the minimum value of  at which the block
M1  M 2
 M  2 M 2
just starts sliding is  = tan–1 1 1
M1  M 2
Where µ1 and µ2 are the coefficients of friction between the block M1 and
the inclined plane and between the block M 2 and the inclined plane
respectively.
Solution: (i) The various forces along and perpendicular to the plane are
represented in Fig. 2.41b.
Let F be the forces of interaction between the block.
The equation of motion of block of mass M1 is given by
M1 g sin  + F – µ1 M1 g cos  = M1 a
Similarly the equation of motion of block of mass M2 is given by
M2 g sin  – F – µ2 M2 g cos  = M2 a
PARTICLE DYNAMICS 85
On dividing the two equations, we have
M1 g sin   F  1 M1 g cos  M M2
= 1
M 2 g sin   F   2 M 2 g cos  M2 M1

or M1 M2 g sin  + M2 F – µ1 M1 M2 g
cos  = M1 M2 g sin  – M1 F – µ2 M1
M2 g cos 
or F (M1 + M2) = (µ1 – µ2) M1 M2 g cos  

 1   2  Fig. 2.41a
or F = M1 M2 g cos 
M1  M 2
(ii) On putting  = 0, the two µ 2N
2

equations of motion take the form N2 N1

µ1
M1g sin  + F – µ1M1 g cos  = 0 and M2
N1
g sin  – F – µ2 M2 g cos  = 0
F
On adding them, we have

(M1 + M2) g sin  = (µ1 M1 + µ2 M2) sin
g
g cos  M 1


sin M1g M2g
1 M1  2 M 2 g

or tan  = M2
M1  M 2
Fig. 2.41b
  M  2 M 2 
or  = tan–1  1 1 
 M1  M 2 
2.68. In the arrangement shown in Fig. 2.42a, the mass of the bar m and
of the wedge M, as well as the wedge angle , are known. The mass
of pulley and the thread are negligible. Find the acceleration of the
wedge M.
Solution: As the bar of mass m slides down the inclined plane through a
distance x it acquires a velocity v relative to the plane. In the same time
the wedge moves through a distance x and gains the speed v (see
Fig. 2.42b). The resultant velocity of the bar is given by
V= v 2  v 2  2v 2 cos(180  ) = 2v 2 (1  cos  )

v
m

M x sin 
v
V
 

Fig. 2.42a Fig. 2.42b Fig. 2.42c

86 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

The loss in potential energy of the bar due to its fall through a height
x sin  is equal to mg x sin . In view of the principle of conservation of
1 1
energy we have mg x sin  = Mv 2 + m [2v 2 (1 – cos )]
2 2
2 mg x sin 
or v 2 =
M  2m (1  cos )
Let a be the acceleration of the wedge. Then v 2 = 2ax
2 mg x sin 
or 2ax =
M  2m (1  cos )
mg sin 
or a =
M  2m (1  cos )
2.69. A block of weight W = 4 kgf lies on a plane of length l = 50 cm inclined
at an angle  = 30° with the horizontal (see Fig. 2.43a). With what force
should the block be pressed against the surface in order to keep it in
equilibrium. The coefficient of friction k between the block and the plane
is 0.5.
Solution: The block will be in
equilibrium when the net force along the
plane is zero, i.e.,
kN = W sin 
Further in the direction
perpendicular to the plane, we have
F + W cos  = N or F = N – W cos  Fig. 2.43a
W KN
= sin  – W cos  N
k
On substituting the values of various
terms, we have
4 1 3
F= × –4× F W
0.5 2 2 sin
W 

=4–2 3
= 4 – 2 × 1.73 = 0.54 kgf Fig. 2.43b

2.70. A wedge of mass m1 = 4 kg and wedge angle  = 30° lies on a smooth

horizontal plane. A rod of mass m2 = 1 kg fixed between the guides and
capable of sliding along that y-axis rests on it (Fig. 2.44a). Find the
acceleration of both the bodies and the reaction of the wedge.
Solution: In Fig. 2.44b the forces acting on the rod are shown: (i) m2 g
= weight of the rod, (ii) F = the force of reaction of the guide, and
(iii) N = the force of reaction of the wedge. Due to the guide the rod is
capable of moving along the y-axis. Its motion is given by the equation:
PARTICLE DYNAMICS 87
N cos  – m2g = m2 ay
Here ay is the acceleration of the rod along the y axis.

Fig. 2.44a Fig. 2.44b

In Fig. 2.44c the forces acting on the wedge are shown: (i) N' = the
force of reaction of the smooth horizontal plane on which the wedge rests,
(ii) N = the force of reaction of the rod, and (iii) the weight m1g of the
wedge.
The equation of motion of wedge along x-axis is given by
– N sin  = m1 ax
Here ax is the acceleration of the wedge along the x-axis.
Further the displacement of the N
rod along the y-axis is given by
1
dy = a t2
2 y N sin 
and of the wedge along x-axis by

1 
dx = ax t2
2 m1g
N
dy a y N cos 
Now = tan  =
dx ax Fig. 2.44c
On dividing the equation N cos  – m2g = m2ay by –N sin  = m1 ax, we
have
m2 g m
– cot  + = 2 tan 
N sin  m1
m2 g m 1
or = 2 tan  +
N sin  m1 tan 

or
m1m2 g
=
m2 tan2   m1  cos 
N sin  sin 
88 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

m1m2 g cos 
or N =
m2 sin 2   m1 cos2 
Substituting the values of various terms, we have

3
4 1 9.8
N= 2 = 10.43 N
1 3
4
4 4
N sin  m2 g sin  cos 
ax = – =–
m1 m2 sin 2   m1 cos2 

13
1 9.8
=– 2 = – 4.9 3 = – 1.3 m/s2
2
1 3 6.5
4
4 4
The negative sign indicates that the wedge will move along the
negative side of the x-axis.
m2 g tan
ay = ax tan  = –
m2 tan m1 cot
1.3
=– = – 0.75 m/s2
3
The negative sign indicates that the rod moved along the negative
side of the y-axis.
2.71. A wedge of mass M = 8.6 kg and wedge angle  = 30° lies on a smooth
horizontal plane. The tip of a rod of mass m = 3.6 kg being properly fixed
between two couplings touches it (see Fig. 2.45a). Due to coupling the
rod can move freely only along y-axis. Initially the rod and the wedge were
both at rest. Calculate (i) the velocity of the wedge at the time the rod
lowers through the height h = 0.2 m (ii) the velocity of the rod relative to
the wedge.
Solution: (i) The velocities of the rod vr and of the wedge vw are related by
the equation.
vr /vw = tan  (Fig. 2.45b)
As the rod is lowered through a y axis
distance h the loss in its potential
energy is balanced by the kinetic
x axis
energy of wedge and rod both, i.e.,
1 1
m vr2 + M vw2 = mgh
2 2 

or m v tan  + M v = 2mgh
2
w
2 2
w Fig. 2.45a
PARTICLE DYNAMICS 89

or vw = 2 mgh/ M  m tan 2 
On substituting the values of
various terms occurring in the
above equation, we have
2 3.6 9.8 0.2
vw = 8.6 3.6 1/3 Fig. 2.45b

2 3.6 9.8 0.2

= = 1.2 m/s
9.8
(ii) From Fig. 2.45b, we have
vrel = vw sec  = sec  × 1.2
2 1.2
= = 0.8 × 3
3
= 1.384 m/s
2.72. Two blocks of mass m1 = 0.7 kg and m2 = 0.5 kg connected by a
spring of force constant k = 1152 N/m lie on a horizontal plane. Of the
two, the block of mass m1 is attached to the wall (see Fig. 2.46). The spring
is compressed by displacing the block of mass m2 towards the left through
distance of x = 10 cm and then released. Calculate the velocity of the centre
of mass of the system when the block of mass m1 breaks off the wall.
1
Solution: Potential energy of compression = kx2. When the block of
2
mass m1 breaks of the wall the spring will come back to its original length.
The velocity of the block of mass m2 can be determined on the basis of
the law of conservation of energy.
1 1
Now m v2 = kx2
2 2 2 2
k
or v2 = x m2
Let us assume that the horizontal
m1 m2
plane on which the two blocks lie is
along x-axis. The x-coordinate of the
Fig. 2.46
centre of mass is given by
m1 x1 m2 x2
X= ; x1 and x2 are taken with reference to the wall.
m1 m2
On differentiating the above equation with repect to t we have
dX m1 dx1 m2 dx2
= +
dt m1 m2 dt m1 m2 dt
90 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

dx1 dx2
= 0 and = v2 = x k /m2
dt dt
dX xm2 k x  m2k
 Velocity of centre of mass = v = = =
dt m1 m2 m2 m1  m2
On substituting the values of various terms, we have
0.1 576
v= 0.5 1152 = = 2 m/s
1.2 12
2.73. Block B and pan P of equal mass M are connected through a spring
of force constant k as shown in Fig. 2.47. The pan rests horizontally. A
block B' having the same mass as that of B is dropped from a height of H
above the pan and sticks to it. Find the minimum value of H at which the
block B will bounce off the ground.
Solution: As the mass B' falls the spring
undergoes a compression Mg/k and from
that an extension x. The tension in the
spring = kx.
When kx > Mg the block B will leave
the ground.
Let H be the minimum height of
the block B' above the pan when the
block B leaves the ground. Then at Fig. 2.47
that instant, Loss in potential energy of
2Mg
B' = Mg H
k
2Mg
Increase in potential energy of the pan = Mg ·
k
Now the block B will bounce off from the ground when
2Mg 2Mg 4Mg
Mg H > Mg or H >
k k k
2.74. A homogeneous and inextensible chain of length l and mass m lies
on a smooth table. A small portion of chain of length x hangs from the
table. Initially the part of the chain lying on the table is held and then
released. Calculate the velocity v with which the chain will leave the table.
Solution: With respect to the plane of the table,
m
Potential energy = – x · g x/2
l
As the chain slides we come across a situation in which the chain is
exactly vertical and leaving the table with velocity v. Then Kinetic energy
1 mgl
is mv2 and Potential energy = .
2 2
PARTICLE DYNAMICS 91
In view of conservation of energy, we have (l-x)

m x2 1 mgl
– ×g = mv 2 –
l 2 2 2 x
2 2
g l x
or v =
l Fig. 2.48

2.75. Two blocks of mass m and 2m connected through a massless rod

slide on a plane inclined at an angle  = 45° to the horizontal. The rod is
parallel to the plane (see Fig. 2.49). The coefficients of friction k1 and k2
between the two masses and the plane, respectively, are 0.2 and 0.1. Find
the common acceleration of the two masses.
Solution: The equation of motion of the two masses along the plane is
given by
2ma = 2mg (sin  – k2 cos ) – T;

K1
N1

N1
k2N2 = 2mg k2 cos 
ma = T + mg (sin  – k1 cos );

T
K2
k1 N1 = mg k1 cos 

N2
N2
Here T stands for the tension in the rod mg
and a for common acceleration.
2mg 
On adding the two equations, we have
3ma = 3mg sin  – mg (k1 + 2k2) cos  Fig. 2.49

g
 a = g sin  – (k1 + 2k2) cos 
3
On substituting the values of the various terms, we have
g g 0.4
a= – ×
2 2 3
g 3 0.4
=
2 3
9.8 2.6
= = 6.02 m/s2
1.41 3
2.76. A block of mass m slides in a right-angled trough inclined at an
angle  = 30° with the horizontal (see Fig. 2.50a). Calculate the acceleration
of the block if the coefficient of friction k between the trough and the
block is 0.141.
Solution: A right-angled trough has two walls at an angle of 90° (see
Fig. 2.50b). During motion there will be friction at the two walls. The total
frictional force fs = 2 k.mg cos  cos 45 = 2 k mg cos .
92 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

The equation of motion of the block is given by

ma = mg sin  – fs
= mg sin  – 2 k mg cos 

a = g sin 2 k cos

On substituting the value of g,  and k, we have
1 2 0.141 3
a = 9.8
2 2
0.141 1.73
= 9.8 0.5 
1.41
= 9.8 [0.5 – 0.173] Fig. 2.50a Fig. 2.50b
= 9.8 × 0.327 = 3.2 m/s2
2.77. Two blocks are tied through a string as shown in Fig. 2.51. Find
(i) the force F exerted by the two blocks in equilibrium. (ii) the force F'
required to carry up the two masses with an acceleration of 2.2 m/s2 and
(iii) the tension in the string lying between the two blocks.
Solution:
(i) F = (2 + 4) × 9.8 = 58.8 N
2 kg
(ii) The equation of motion of the two blocks is given by
F' – 2g – T = 2a T
and T – 4g = 4a (a is the acceleration)
On addition of the two we have 4 kg
F' = 6 (a + g) = 6 (2.2 + 9.8) = 6 × 12 = 72 N
(iii) T = 4 (a + g) = 4 (2.2 + 9.8) = 4 × 12 = 48 N Fig. 2.51

2.78. A piece of ice slides down a plane inclined at an angle  = 30° with
the horizontal in twice the time it takes to slide down a similar frictionless
plane. Find the coefficient of friction k between the ice and the plane.
Solution: Various forces are shown in Fig. 2.52. When friction is present
the equation of motion of ice of mass m is given by
mg sin  – kmg cos  = ma2; a2 is the acceleration of ice along the
plane or a2 = g (sin  – k cos )
If x be the length of the inclined plane, then
1 1
x= a2 t 22 = g (sin  – k cos ) t 22
2 2
where t2 is the total time taken by the ice to slide down the plane.
In the absence of friction the equation of motion is given by
ma1 = mg sin ; a1 is the acceleration of ice along the plane.
PARTICLE DYNAMICS 93
or a1 = g sin 
The distance travelled in time t1 is given by
1
x= g sin  · t12 N
2
KN
On dividing the two equations of x we have
2
sin   k cos   t 2  t 2 sin

1=   ; =2 g

mg cos 
m mg
sin   t1  t1
1 sin   k cos  
or =
4 sin  Fig. 2.52
or 0.25 sin  = sin  – k cos 
or k cos  = 0.75 sin 
or k = 0.75 tan 
= 0.75 tan 30
0.75 0.75
= = = 0.4336
3 1.73
2.79. In the Fig. 2.53 the mass of the blocks A, B and C is 2 kg each.
Neglecting the mass of the pulley and the string find the tension in the
string connecting the two blocks B and C.
Solution: The equation of motion of block C is given by
2g – T = 2a; T is the tension in the string
connecting the blocks B and C. Similarly the
equation of motion of block B and A is given by
2g + T – T1 = 2a; a is the common acceleration.
and T1 – 2g = 2a; T1 is the tension in the string
connecting the blocks A and B.
On adding the three equations, we have
g
2g = 6a or a =
3
2g
Now T = 2g – 2a = 2g –
3
4 9.8 39.2 Fig. 2.53
= = = 13.07 N
3 3
2.80. A massless thread passing over a frictionless and massless
pulley contained two masses m1 and m2 at its end as shown in Fig. 2.54.
Find the tension in the string if the pulley as a whole moves up with an
acceleration g.
Solution: Let a be the acceleration of the two masses m1 and m2. Let us
assume that m1 is going down and m 2 is going up. Now m1 will go
94 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

downwards with a resultant acceleration a – g and m2 will go up with a

resultant acceleration a + g. The equation of motion of the two masses is
given by
m1 (a – g) = m1 g – T; T is the tension in the string
and m2 (a + g) = T – m2g
On adding the two equations, we have
(m1 + m2) a = 2 (m1 – m2) g
2 m1 m2 g
or a =
m1 m2
Now T = 2m1g – m1a
m1 m2
= 2m1g – 2m1 g
m1 m2
4m1m2 g
or T =
m1 m2 Fig. 2.54

2.81. In the arrangment shown in Fig. 2.55a the plane on which the block
A moves is inclined at an angle  = 45° with the horizontal. The coefficient
of friction k between the block A and the plane is 0.141. The ratio of the
m 3
masses of the blocks B and A B =  = . Initially the system is stationary.y.
mA 2
Find the acceleration of the block B when the masses start moving.
Solution: mB =  mA (given)
The various forces acting on the mass mA are shown in Fig. 2.55b. Let
a be the common acceleration of the system. The equation of motion of
the two blocks is given by
T – mA g sin  – k mA g cos  = mA a; T is the tension in string and
 mA g – T =  mA a
On adding the two equations, we have
mA g ( – sin  – k cos ) = ( + 1) mA a

Fig. 2.55a Fig. 2.55b

PARTICLE DYNAMICS 95
g
or a = ( – sin  – k cos )
 1
On substituting the values of , k,  and g we have
9.8 3 1 1
a= 0.141
3 2 2 2
1
2
9.8 2
= [1.5 – 0.707 – 0.1]
5
9.8 2 0.693
= = 2.71 m/s2
5
2.82. In the arrangement shown in Fig. 2.56, block A moves on a
frictionless plane inclined at an angle  = 30° with the horizontal.
Neglecting the masses of the pulley and the connecting strings find the
acceleration of block B whose mass is  = 2 times the mass of block A.
Solution: Let m and m be the masses of the two blocks A and B
respectively. The equation of motion of two blocks is given by mg sin
 – T = ma1; a1 is the acceleration of block A.
mg – T1 = ma; a is the acceleration of block B.
a
On substituting a1 = in the first equation, we have
e
2
ma
– mg sin  + T =
2
or ma = 2T – 2mg sin 
T
and ma = +  mg since T = 2T1
2
On solving the two equations, we have
2 g (2  sin )
a=
41
On substituting the values
of  and , we have
2 g 3.5 7
a = = g
9 9
= 7.62 m/s2 Fig. 2.56
2.83. Calculate the acceleration of the system and the tension in the strings
for the system shown in Fig. 2.57.
Solution: The equation of motion of mass 8 kg is given by
8g – T1 = 8a (i)
Similarly equation of motion of mass 2 kg and 4 kg is given by
96 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

T1 – T2 – 2g cos 60 = 2a (ii)
and T2 – 4g cos 60 = 4a (iii)
On adding the three equations we have
8g – 6g cos 60 = 14a
or 14a = 5g
5g
 a =
14
5 9.8
= = 3.5 m/s2
14
Using equation (i), we have Fig. 2.57
T1 = 8 (9.8 – 3.5) = 8 × 6.3 = 50.4 N
Using equation (iii) we have
T2 = 4a + 4g cos 60 = 4a + 2g
= 4 × 3.5 + 2 × 9.8 = 33.6 N
2.84. In the system shown in Fig. 2.58 block of mass m1 slides on a
frictionless plane inclined at an angle  with the horizontal. Neglecting
the mass of the pulley and connecting strings, find the acceleration of
block of mass m1 moving up along the plane.
Solution: In the arrangement shown in the Fig. 2.58 mass m1 has a
displacement twice that of m2. The acceleration of m1 will therefore be
twice that of m2.
Let a be the acceleration of m1. Then the acceleration of m2 is a/2.
The equation of motion of mass m2 is given by
m2 a
m2g – 2T = (i)
2
Similarly the equation of
motion of mass m1 is given by
T – m1g sin  = m1a (ii)
One eliminating T
from these two
equations
2 g  m2  2m1 sin  
a= Fig. 2.58
4m1  m2
2.85. In the system shown in Fig. 2.59 blocks B and C of mass m1 and m2
rest on a horizontal plane. The coefficient of friction between the blocks
and the plane is k. Neglecting the mass of the pulley and the connecting
strings find (i) the acceleration with which block A of mass m0, comes
down and (ii) the tension T in the string connecting the two blocks B
and C.
PARTICLE DYNAMICS 97
Solution: Let a be the acceleration of the system. Equation of motion of
block C of mass m2 is given by
T – m2gk = m2a (i)
Equation of motion of block B of mass m1 is given by
T1 – T – m1 gk = m1a (ii)
Equation of motion of block A of mass m0 is given by
m0g – T1 = m0a (iii)
On adding the three equations, we have
g [m0 – k (m1 + m2)] = (m0 + m1 + m2) a
g m0 k m1 m2
or a =
m0 m1 m2
On substituting the value of a in
equation (i) we have
Fig. 2.59
T = m2a + m2gk = m2 [a + gk]
gm0 gk m1 m2 g km0 g km1 g km2
= m2
m0 m1 m2
gm2m0 (1 k )
=
m0 m1 m2
2.86. A frictionless cart of mass M carries two other frictionless carts
connected by a string passing over a pulley as shown in Fig. 2.60. Calculate
the force which, when applied to the cart of mass M, will prevent the two
carts of mass m1 and m2 to move relative to it.
Solution: Let a be the acceleration when
the two carts of mass m 1 and m 2 are
moving. Now we have
m2
m1a = T = m2g or a = g
m1
Rrequired force F = (m1 + m2 + M) a
m2
= (m1 + m2 + M) g
m1 Fig. 2.60

2.87. In the arrangment shown in Fig. 2.61, the bodies have masses m0,
m1 and m2, friction is absent, and the mass of the pulleys and the threads
is negligible. Find the acceleration of body m1.
Solution: Equation of motion of mass m0 is given by
m0 a3 = T (i)
Equation of motion of masses m1 and m2 is given by
98 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

m1g – T1 = m1 a1 (ii)
a1 a2
T = 2T1 and = a3
2
T1 – m2g = m2a2 (iii)
On substituting T1 = T/2 = m0 a3/2 in
equation (iii), we have
m0 a3 – 2 m2 g = 2 m2 a2 (iv)
Similarly on substituting T1 = m0 a3/2
in equation (ii), we have
Fig. 2.61
2m1g – m0a3 = 2m1a1 (v)
On substituting a3 as (a1 – a2)/2 in equations (iv) and (v) we have
m0 (a1 – a2) – 4m2 g = 4 m2 a2
and 4 m1g – m0 (a1 – a2) = 4m1 a1
On solving these two equations, we get
 4m1m2  m0 m1  m2  
a1 = g  
 4m1m2  m0 m1  m2  
2.88. In the system shown in Fig. 2.62 the mass ratio of the ball and the
rod (m1/m2) =  = 1.5. The length of the rod l = 1 m. The ball is released
after setting it at the level of the lower end of the rod. Find: (i) the
acceleration of the ball, and (ii) the time after which the ball will be at the
other end of the rod.
Solution: In view of the arrangement shown the mass m2 is displaced twice
as fast as m1. Therefore its acceleration will be twice that of m1. Let a be
the acceleration of m1. Then the acceleration of m2 will be 2a. The equation
of motion of the ball and the rod is given by
2T – m1g = m1a
and m2g – T = 2m2 a
On solving the two equations, we get

2m2 m1
a = g
4m2 m1
2
=  g Fig. 2.62
4
0.5
= × 9.8 = 0.89 m/s2
5.5
1
In view of the equation of motion s = ut + a t2
2 1
PARTICLE DYNAMICS 99

3 (2  ) 2
We have l = 0 + gt (here
e a1 is the relative acceleration = 3a)
2 4
2l (4  ) 2 1 5.5 22
t= = = = 0.865 s
3(2  ) g 3 0.5 9.8 3 9.8
2.89. Two blocks A and B are connected to each other by a string and a
spring; the string passes over a frictionless pulley as shown in Fig. 2.63a.
Block B slides over the horizontal top surface of a stationary block C and
the block A slides along the vertical side of C, both with the same uniform
speed. The coefficient of friction between the surfaces of the blocks is
0.2. The force constant of the spring is 1960 N/m. If the mass of block A is
2 kg, calculate the mass of block B and the energy stored in the spring.
Solution: As the speed of the two blocks is the same, there is no net force
acting on the two bodies, i.e.,
T = µN = µ mg (for block B);
µ is the coefficient of friction (see
Fig. 2.63b).
For block A, we have
2g = kx = T = µmg; k is the force
constant.
2g 2 2
or m = = = = 10 kg
g  0.2
Fig. 2.63a Fig. 2.63b
2 9.8 1
Now x = = m
1960 100
1 1
Energy stored = kx2 = × 1960 × 10–4 = 0.098 J
2 2
2.90. The bodies B and C of equal
mass m are arranged on a block A
as shown in Fig. 2.64. The coefficient
of friction between A and either B
or C is µ. Assuming the pulley and
the string to be massless and the
pulley to be smooth, calculate the
minimum horizontal acceleration
with which block A should move so
that B and C both remain stationary,
relative to it. Fig. 2.64

Solution: Let an acceleration  is applied to the body A.

The equation of motion of body B is given by
T – µ mg = m ( + a) [( + a) is the resultant acceleration of body B.]
100 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

The equation of motion of body C is given by

mg – µ m – T = ma [(µm is the frictional force acting on the body C.)]
On adding the two equations, we have
mg (1 – µ) – µm = m ( + 2a)
Since the bodies B and C have to be stationary, i.e., a = 0, we have
mg (1 – µ) = m (1 + µ)
g (1  )
 =
1 
2.91. A cycle chain AB of length l is placed inside a hollow horizontal
smooth pipe in such a way so that a part of the chain of length h hangs
freely with the end B touching a table (see Fig. 2.65). The end of the tube
A is set free. The chain starts sliding inside the pipe. Find the velocity of
the chain when end A slips out of the pipe.
Solution: Let T be the tension at the highest point of the hanging part of
the chain. The equation of the motion of the chain is given by
mgh – T = mha; m = mass per unit length of the chain.
Let x be the length of the chain inside the pipe at some instant, then
T = x · ma
A
dv
= xm ·
dt
h
dv dx
T = xm · ·
dx dt B
dv
= x · mv ·
dx Fig. 2.65
dv dv
Now mgh – xmv = mh · v ·
dx dx
vdv
or gh = (h + x)
dx
l h V
gh
or 
0
hx
dx =  vdv
0

l h V2
gh log e (h x) 0 =
2
or V = 2gh loge l h

2.92. Two similar buggies a and b each of mass M carrying one man of
mass m moves without friction towards each other. When they are
opposite to each other the men exchange their positions by way of jumping
in a direction perpendicular to their direction of motion. As a result buggy
PARTICLE DYNAMICS 101
a stops whereas buggy b keeping going in the same direction with velocity
v. Find the initial velocities of the two buggies.
Solution: Let v1 and v2 be the initial velocities of the two buggies. Due to
jump there is a change in momentum.
Change in momentum of buggy a = – (mv1 + mv2)
For buggy a we have
(M + m) v1 – m (v1 + v2) = 0; momentum mv1 and mv2 are exchanged
but in opposite direction.
 Mv1 = mv2
For buggy b we have
(M + m)v2 – m (v1 + v2) = (M + m) v
or Mv2 – mv1 = (M + m) v
m 2v 2
or Mv2 – = (M + m) v
M
(M – m) v2 = Mv
Mv
or v2 =
M m
mv
v1 =
M m
2.93. A plank supporting a bar of mass m is placed on a horizontal plane.
One end of a light elastic non-deformed cord of length l is attached to the
bar while its other end to a rigid support O as shown in Fig. 2.66a. The
plank is slowly moved towards the right by applying a force. At the moment
when the cord deviates through an angle  the bar starts sliding over the
plank. Assuming the coefficient of friction between the bar and plank as
µ find the work performed by the frictional force.
Solution: The forces acting on the bar is shown in Fig. 2.66b. Change in
length of the cord


O T
l
R
l T cos 
m T sin 
R
m

mg

Fig. 2.66a Fig. 2.66b

102 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

l = l (sec  – 1)
T sin  = µR
and R + T cos  = mg
 R = (mg – T cos )
With this value of R we have
T sin  = µ (mg – T cos )
 mg
or T =
sin    cos 
T = K · l ; K = force constant
 mg
K=
l  sin    cos    sec   1
1
Work performed = K · l 2
2
1  mg
 l 2  sec   1
2
= ·
2 l  sin    cos   sec   1
l ·  m g 1  cos  
=
2 cos   sin    cos  
2.94. Bar A of mass m placed on a horizontal plane as shown in Fig. 2.67a
is attached to its left by thread to a point P and to its right by a thread
attached to a particle B of mass m passing over a weightless pulley. In
addition to this the bar is attached to a point O by means of spring of
length l and force constt. K = 5 mg/l. On cutting the thread PA the bar
starts moving to the right. Find its velocity when it is breaking off the
horizontal plane.
Solution: When the bar moves towards the right the spring becomes
elongated. When the bar breaking off the plane we have

l
O

P A 

x
B

Fig. 2.67a Fig. 2.67b

PARTICLE DYNAMICS 103

KL cos  = mg ; L = l2 x2 l (see Fig. 2.67b)

5mg l
or · l2 x2 l · = mg
l l 2
x2

or 5 l2 x2 l = l2 x2

or 4  l 2  x 2 = 5l
or 16l 2 + 16x 2 = 25l 2
3l
or x =
4
According to conservation of energy.
Gain in K.E of A + gain in K.E of B + gain in P.E of spring = Loss in P.E
of B
1 1 1
mv 2 + mv 2 + KL2 = mgx
2 2 2
1 5mg 2 3l
or mv 2 + · l 2 x 2 l = mg ·
2 l 4
2
5mg 2 9l 2 3mgl
or mv + 2 l l =
2l 16 4

5mg l2 3mgl
or mv 2 + × =
2l 16 4
3gl 5gl
or v2 = –
4 32
19gl
=
32
19 gl
v =
32
 3
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION
3.1. A particle moves around a circle of radius 15 cm with a constant
tangential acceleration of At = 2.5 cm/sec2. Calculate the time from the
beginning of the motion at which the normal acceleration An will be
equal to the tangential acceleration of the particle.
Solution:
v
At =
t
v2
An =
r
r · An 0.15
t = = = 2.45 sec.
At2 2.5 10 2
3.2. A small particle moves around a circular track of radius 15 cm with
a constant tangential acceleration At. Calculate At if the particle acquires
a velocity v = 88 cm/sec after completing four complete revolutions.
Solution:
d A
= t ; r = radius of the path
dt r
At
 = ·t
r
At
 d = r · t · dt
A ·t 2
 = t +C
2r
At t = 0, = 0
 C =0
At ·t 2
  =
2r
A
2n = t · t 2
2r
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 105

v
On putting t =
At
v2
2n =
2r · At
v2
 At =
2 n ·2r
882 10 4
=
2 3.14 4 2 0.15
= 0.103 m/sec.2
3.3. A small particle moves around a circular path of radius r = 15 cm
with constant tangential acceleration At. Calculate the normal acceleration
of the particle in time t = 15 sec in which the particle has completed
5 revolutions and has acquired a linear velocity of 20 cm/sec.
Solution: In the light of question No. 3.2:
At At ·t 2
 =· t and  =
r 2r
2 2 2 2
At ·t  4 nr  t
An = =  2  ·
r  t  r
Further v = r = At · t
vt 
4

= (4 nr)2
 4  nr 
2

v 4 ·t 2
 An =
16 2 n 2r 3
(0.2)4 225
=
16 3.142 25 0.153
= 0.027 m/sec.2
3.4. A small ball of mass m is attached to one end of a massless elastic
string of unstretched length l0 and elastic constant K. The ball is rotated
in a horizontal circle with an angular velocity 1 by holding the other
end of the string. What amount of work will be done in increasing its
angular velocity to 2?
Solution:
K (l – l0) = ml2
l  K  m12  = Kl0
K l0
 l =
K  m12
106 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

1 1
E1 = Initial energy = m (l1)2 + K (l – l0)2
2 2
1 1 m 2 l 2 14
= ml 2 12 + K·
2 2 K2
1 m 1 l
2 2
=  K  m 12 
2 K
1 m 12 K l0  K  m1 
2 2 2

= ·
 K  m 12 
2
2 K

1 K  m 
2
1
= mK 12 l02
2 K  m  
2 2
1

Further K (l2 – l0) = ml2 22

1 1
E2 = Final energy = m (l2 2)2 + K (l2 – l0)2
2 2
1 K  m  2
2
= mK l02 22
2 K  m  2
2

 K  m 2 
1  2 K  m 12 
Work done = E2 – E1 = mK l0 2 2
 ·2

  K  m 12  
2 1
2 K  m 22 2


3
3.5. A particle travelled th of a circle at a mean speed v during a certain
4
time. Find the magnitude of the mean velocity V of the particle during
the same time.
Solution: Suppose the particle is moving on the circumference of a circle
of radius R and completing one revolution in time .
3 2R 2R
Mean speed v = · =
4 3  
4
R 2 4R 2
Magnitude of mean velocity V  in that time = =
3 3
4
4 2 v  2 2
= = v
3 2 3
3.6. A small body of mass m slides without friction from the top of a
hemisphere of radisu R as shown in the Fig. 3.1. At what height will the
body be detached from the surface of the hemisphere ?
Solution: Let us assume that the body is detached from the hemisphere
after traversing a vertical distance h. At B the velocity is given by
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 107
v2 = u2 + 2gh since u = 0
v = 2gh
At the point B a component of the weight, i.e., mg cos  will be equal
to the centripetal force since the reaction force at B will be equal to zero.
mv 2
or mg cos  =
R
OC v2 2gh
or g = =
R R R
or R – h = 2h
R
or h =
3 Fig. 3.1
3.7. A small sphere of mass m attached to a string of length l is suspended
from O (see Fig. 3.2). A peg P is located at a distance x below the point of
suspension O. What should be the value of x if the ball starting from A
swings full circle with the peg at its centre.
Solution: In order to swing A O
completely in a circle centred on
the peg P the sphere must have a
speed g (l x ) at the point C. In x C
view of conservation of energy the
total energy at C is given by the
potential energy mgl. Therefore,
P
1
mgl = mg (l – x) + 2 mg (l – x)
2
or 2l = (l – x) + 4 (l – x)
or 5x = 3l B
Fig. 3.2
3
or x = l = 0.6l
5
3.8. A small sphere of mass m attached to one end of a rubber cord of
length l revolves in a horizontal circle centred at the other end of the
cord with a frequency n. The tension in the cord is no longer constant
but varies directly with elongation. Find (i) the radius of the circular path
(ii) the tension T' in the cord by taking tension per unit elongation as k.
Solution: The sphere revolves in a horizontal circle. The tension in the
cord is balanced by the centripetal force according to the following
equation:
Tension t = mr 2 = mr · 42 n2
where r is the radius of the circular path.
dt = 42 mn2 dr
108 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Let T be the tension in unstretched condition, i.e., T = 42 mn2 l

T dt Tension
= =k
dr elongation
T dt
or + =k
dr dr
or T = (k – 42mn2) dr
T
 dr =
k  42 mn2
kT k · 4 2 mn 2 l
 T' = T + dt = k · dr = =
k  4 mn
2 2
k  42 mn 2
Further T' = T + dt = 42mn2l + 42mn2dr = 42mn2R
where R is the radius of the circular path = l + dr
T' kl
R= =
42mn2 k  42 mn2
3.9. A small sphere of mass m slides down a plane from point A at height
H and then moves in a circular loop of radius r as shown in Fig. 3.3.
Calculate (i) height H in terms of r, and (ii) pressure exerted by the sphere
at P.
Solution: If the ball has to
cross C it must have a critical
speed of gr . Thus the total
energy at C is given by
1
mgr + mg · 2r
2
In view of conservation of
5
energy, mgH = mgr Fig. 3.3
2
5r
or H =
2
The kinetic energy at P can be obtained as
1 5r
m VP2 + mg (r + r cos ) = mg · ; VP is the velocity of sphere at P.
2 2
or VP = 5gr – 2gr – 2gr cos 
2

or VP2 = (3 – 2 cos ) gr
At P we have
mVP2
mg cos  + F = = (3 – 2 cos ) mg; F is the force of reaction at the
r
point P
or F = 3 mg (1 – cos )
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 109
3.10. A sphere starting from point A moves in a vertical loop from which
a symmetrical section of an angle POR = 2 has been taken out (see
Fig. 3.4). From what maximum and minimum heights should the sphere
be allowed to move so that after losing contact with the track at point P, it
reaches point R via a parabolic path PQR in air?
Solution: Let v be the velocity of
the sphere at point P. In view of
the figure, PR will be the range
of the parabolic path PQR.
 Range = PR = 2r sin 
The time of flight for the
2 v sin 
parabolic path, PQR =
g
2v sin  Fig. 3.4
Therefore, 2r sin  = × v cos 
g
gr
or v2 =
cos 
According to law of conservation of energy we have
1
mgh = mgr + mgr cos  + mv2
2
Substituting the value of v2 from the above we have
mgr
mgh = mgr (1 + cos ) +
2 cos 
h 1
cos  = cos  + cos2  +
r 2
h
Put =b
r
Now 2 cos2  – 2 (b – 1) cos  + 1 = 0
2 (b 1) 4(b 1)2 8 1
cos  = = (b 1) (b 1)2 2
4 2
for  to be real, we must have (b – 1)  2
or b  1 + 2
For cos , we have the identify 0 < cos  < 1, i.e.
b – 1 + (b 1)2 2  2 and b  2.5
i.e., 1 + 2  b  2.5 or 1 2 r  h  2.5r
3.11. A small sphere of mass m starts sliding from height H down a
frictionless inclined groove passing into a half circle of radius H/2 as shown
110 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

in Fig. 3.5. Find the velocity of the sphere at the highest point of its path
after breaking off the groove.
Solution: Suppose at point P the body breaks off the groove. At this point,
then, the reaction force on the groove will vanish. A component of its
weight will provide the centripetal force, i.e.,
mv 2 A
mg cos  =
H /2 P
1
or v =
2
gH cos  
2 H/2
With velocity v the sphere H
will now describe a parabolic
trajectory. The velocity at the
highest point of the trajectory
Fig. 3.5
will be v cos .
In view of the principle of conservation of energy the total energy at
P will be obtained at the cost of potential energy mgH, i.e.,
H H 1
mgH = mg + mg cos  + mv2
2 2 2
H H H
or mg = mg cos  + mg cos 
2 2 4
1 3
or = cos 
2 2
2
or cos  =
3
The velocity at the highest point of the trajectory after breaking off
the groove equals
1
v cos  = v 2 cos2  = gH cos3 
2
1 8 4gH 2 gH
= gH = =
2 27 27 3 3
3.12. A track shown in Fig. 3.6 consists of a straight portion of AB and a
semi-circle BCD of radius r. A particle of mass m moves to the right along
22 gr
the straight path with a constant velocity . After covering the
5
straight track it moves up and after some time it reaches point O where
it loses the contact with the track. How far from B will the particle strikes
the straight track AB?
mv02
Solution: At O we have = mg cos 
r
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 111

or v0 = gr cos 
According to conservation of energy we have
1 22 gr 1
m· = mgr cos  + mgr (1 + cos )
2 5 2
On solving cos  = 4/5 and sin  = 3/5
x = r cos  = 0.8 r
For height EF we have

 
2
gr cos  ·sin  = 2gh
gr cos 
or h = EF = · sin2 
2g
18r
=
125
18r 243r Fig. 3.6
 FB = + 1.8 r =
125 125
gr cos  · sin 
Time for path OF = =t
g
gr cos  · cos · gr cos  ·sin 
Distance OE =
g
= r cos2  · sin 
27 r
Distance EL = r sin  – r cos2  sin  = r sin3  =
125
Time of flight for path FB
243r 1
= g · t 02
125 2
2 243r
 t0 =
125 g
2  243r
Distance EG = gr cos  · cos  ·
125 g
2r 4 2 243
= × ×
5 5 125
8r
= 2 243
125
8r 2 243 27r
Distance BG = –
125 125
= 1.1949 r
112 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

3.13. A simple pendulum is constructed by suspending a sphere of mass

m through a massless string of length l. The pendulum is suspended at O
(see Fig. 3.7). What minimum velocity should be imparted to the point of
suspension O horizontally for the ball to move along the circle about that
point ? What will be the tension in the string when the sphere is at the
point B ?
Solution: In the given figure, O is the point of suspension. In the
equilibrium position the ball of the simple pendulum is at the point A.
Let us assume that a velocity umin is given to the point of suspension in
the direction BO.
With respect to the point of suspension O the sphere will have a
velocity umin and with this velocity it will describe a circular path in the
clockwise direction. In order to cross the point C it must have a speed of
gl at that point.
In the view of the principle of
conservation of energy
1 2
1
m umin = mg · 2l + mgl
2 2
or umin = 5gl
At the point B the string will be
horizontal, and we have the equation
mv B2
= T (T is the tension in the string)
l
Further, in view of conservation of energy,
1 2 1 Fig. 3.7
m 5gl = mgl + m vB2
2 2
3 1
or mgl = m vB2
2 2
or vB = 3gl
In the light of this the tension in the string is given by
m
T= × 3gl = 3 mg
l
3.14. A particle of mass m is placed inside a hemispherical bowl which
rotates about its vertical axis with constant angular velocity . It is just
prevented from sliding down when OP is inclined 45° with the axis (O is
the centre of the sphere and P is the position of the particle). The radius
of the bowl is 10 2 m, coefficient of friction µ between the particle and
the bowl is 0.5. Find  given g = 10 m/s2.
Solution:
Frictional force f = µN
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 113
At P sum of the forces f sin 45 + N sin 45 will be balanced by the weight
of the particle, i.e.,
f sin 45 + N sin 45 = mg
or (µN + N) = mg 2
or N (1 + µ) = mg 2
For the purpose of rotation the necessary centripetal force is obtained
from the force N cos 45 – f cos 45, i.e.,
N cos 45 – f cos 45 = mr2
or N (1 – µ) = 2 ·m2 R cos 45
(r = R cos 45 where R is the radius of
the bowl) = m2R
On dividing the two equations, we
have
2 R 1  
=  
g 2 1  
(1  ) g 2 Fig. 3.8
or  =
(1  ) R
On substituting the values of the various terms, we have
0.5 10 2 1
 = = rad/s
1.5 10 2 3
3.15. A particle of mass 100 g is suspended from one of the end of a
weightless string of length 1 m and is allowed to swing in the vertical
plane. The speed of the mass is 2 m/s when the string is inclined at angle
 = 60° with the vertical. Determine (i) the tension in the string at  = 60°,
and (ii) the speed of the particle when it is in the lowest position.
Solution: At the point B (Fig. 3.9) the equation of motion of the particle is
given by
mv B2
T – mg cos 60 = (r is the
r
radius of circular path = length of the
string, T is the tension in the string,
vB is the speed of the particle)
mv B2
T= + mg cos 60
r
0.1 9.8
= 0.1 × 4 +
2
= 0.40 + 0.49 = 0.89 N Fig. 3.9
114 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

The total energy at A is kinetic and is given by

1 1
m v A2 = mg (r – r cos ) + m vB2 ; vA is the speed of the particle at A
2 2
vA = 2 gr (1  cos )  vB2
1
 vA = 2 9.8 4 = 13.8 = 3.715 m/s
2
3.16. A light metallic chain of mass m = 50 gm and length l = 60 cm is
fitted on an ebonite disc after its ends have been soldered (see Fig. 3.10a).
Find the tension in the chain when the disc rotates with a speed of
n = 60 rps about an axis passing through its centre.
m
Solution: Mass per unit length of the chain =
l
Consider an element of the chain of length R · 2 ; R = radius of the
disc
m
Mass of the length sought = R·2
l
Let T be the tension in the chain. On resolving T in two mutually
perpendicular directions, the component T cos  will vanish (see
Fig. 3.10b). Thus we have
m
R 2  2 R = 2T sin  = 2T  (sin  =  when  is small)
l

T cos  T cos 
 
T   T

  T sin 
T sin 

Fig. 3.10a Fig. 3.10b

m m
or T = R2 42 n2 = n2 l2 ; 42 R2 = l2
l l
= ml · n2
On substituting the values of the terms m, l and n, we have
T = 50 × 10–3 × 60 × 10–2 × 60 × 60 = 108 N
3.17. A sphere of mass m is suspended from a string of length l from the
point O (see Fig. 3.11). The sphere rotates in a circular path in a horizontal
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 115
plane. The string makes an angle  with the vertical. Find the time period
of rotation.
Solution: For the rotation of the sphere in the
circular path a centripetal force m R2 is
required. Further,
m R 2
= tan 
mg
g g R g
or 2 = tan  = × =
R R h h
2 g h
or  = = or T = 2 Fig. 3.11
T h g
3.18. An object is placed at the top of a hemisphere of radius r. What
horizontal velocity should be imparted to it so that it may detach from
the surface of the hemisphere at the initial point of its motion?
Solution: Let v1 be the velocity imparted to the object. Let its velocity be
v2 after it has decend through h.
According to conservation of energy we have
1 1
m v 2 + mgh = m v22 (see Fig. 3.12)
2 1 1 2
2 2
or v2 = v1 + 2gh
At the break off we have Fig. 3.12
mv22
= mg cos 
r
r h
 v22 = g r cos  = g r = v12 + 2gh
r
or gr – 3gh = v12
At the initial point h = 0
 v1 = gr
3.19. A particle of mass m is projected from the point A with a velocity of
1
v0 = 95gr along the inner surface of a smooth vertical circle of radius
5
r as shown in Fig. 3.13. At what angle  from the vertical it will detach
from the track and what will be its velocity at that instant?
Solution:
(i) According to conservation of energy, we have
1 1 1
m· · 95 gr = mg [r + r cos ] + mv2
2 25 2
116 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

mv 2
Further mg cos  =
r
19 1
= 1 + cos  + cos 
10 2
9 3
= cos 
10 2
3
 = cos–1
5 Fig. 3.13
3
(ii) v = gr cos  = gr
2
5
1
v= 15gr
5
3.20. An insect is sitting on a gramophone record rotating on its base at
100
revolution per min. The insect is at a distance of 9.8 cm. from the
3
centre of the record. Calculate the coefficient of friction between the
record and the insect.
Solution:
µmg = mr2
r 2 4 2 ·n2r
µ = =
g g
On substituting the valves we have
42 25
µ = × × 9.8 × 10–2
9.8 81
2
=
81
3.21. A ball of mass m = 250 gm. is fixed at one end of a 1 m long string.
By holding the other end of the string the ball is rotated in a horizontal
circle. Assuming the greatest weight that the string can support is
M = 4 kg. Calculate the maximum number of revolutions/sec that the ball
will make without breaking the string.
Solution:
T = Mg = ml2
1
Mg 2
2n =
ml
1
1 Mg 2
n = ·
2 ml
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 117
On substituting the values we have
1
1 4 9.8 2
n=
2 3.14 0.25 1
= 1.99
= 2 rev/sec.
3.22. Two identical balls of mass m are tied to two weightless strings of
equal length l as shown in the Fig. 3.14. The system thus formed is rotated
in a horizontal circle with A as centre at a constant angular speed . Find
the ratio of the tension in the two strings.
Solution: The equation of motion of ball C is given by
T2 = m · 2l · 2
The equation of motion of ball B is given by
T1 – T2 = ml · 2
or T1 = T2 + ml2 B l
l
= m · 2l · 2 + m · l · 2 A C
T1 T1 T2 T2
= 3 ml · 2
T1 3ml2 Fig. 3.14
= =3:2
T2 2ml2
3.23. A car is moving on a circular road of radius 500 m at a speed of
25 m/sec. It is increasing in speed at a rate of 3 m/sec2 . Calculate its
acceleration.
Solution:
v2 25 25
Radial acceleration ar = = = 1.25 m/sec..2
r 500
dv
Tangential acceleration aT = = 3 m/sec2
dt
 Resultant acceleration a = ar2 aT2 = 1.5625 9 = 3.25 m/sec..2
3.24. At what speed earth should rotate about its own axis so that a person
2
on the equator should have his weight as of its present value?
5
Solution:
2
mg = mg – mr2 ; r = radius of the earth
5
3g
= r2
5
3g
 =
5r
118 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

3.25. A man of mass m = 50 kg is sitting on a conventional swing of length

4 m. supported by two chains. At the lowest point each chain has a tension
of 400 N. Calculate (i) the speed of the man at the lowest point. (ii) the
force of the seat on the man at the lowest point.
Solution:
(i) Let T be the tension in each chain then the equation of motion at
the lowest point is given by
mv 2
2T – mg =
r
r
v= (2T mg )
m
On substituting the values we have
4(2 400 50 9.8)
v=
50
4 310
=
50
= 24.8 = 4.98 m/sec.
mv 2
(ii) Force of the seat on the man = mg +
r
50 4.982
= 50 × 9.8 +
4
= 490 + 310 = 800 N
3.26. In an aircraft a pilot of mass 50 kg executes loop the loop in which
the craft moves in a vertical circle of radius 2.5 km at a constant speed of
200 m/sec. Calculate the force of the seat on the pilot when the craft is at,
B, T and A (see Fig. 3.15) respectively.
Solution:
mv 2
NB = mg +
r
50 2002
= 50 × 9.8 +
2.5 103
= 490 + 800
= 1290 N
mv 2
NT + mg =
r
Fig. 3.15
mv 2
NT = – mg
r
= 800 – 490
= 310 N
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 119

mv 2
NA = = 800 N
r
3.27. A simple pendulum is constructed by using a bob of mass
m = 500 gm and a weightless string of length l = 1 m. Initially the bob of
the pendulum is at A (Fig. 3.16) and the string is horizontal. The pendulum
released from rest swings downwards under the influence of earth’s gravity
and acquires the position B by describing an angle  = 30°. At B find (i) the
velocity of the bob (ii) the tension in the string.
Solution:
(i) At B we have
1
mgl sin  = mv2
2
or v = 2 gl sin 
On substituting the values we have
1
v= 2 9.8 1
2
= 9.8
= 3.13 m/sec. Fig. 3.16
2
mv
(ii) T – mg sin  =
l
T = mg sin  + 2mg sin 
= 3 mg sin 
On putting the valves we have
1
T = 3 × 0.5 × 9.8 ×
2
= 7.35 N
3.28. In Fig. 3.17 the bob of the simple pendulum is at A and the string is
horizontal. The bob falls under the influence of earth’s gravitational
field and strikes a vertical rigid wall W
at B. Assuming the coefficient of
1
restitution e = find the angle 
2
described by the bob after the rebound.
Solution: Let m be the mass of the bob
and l be the length of the string, then in
view of conservation of energy we have.
1
mgl = m vB2 ; vB = velocity of the bob when
2
it strikes the wall.
Fig. 3.17
or vB = 2gl
120 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

1
The velocity at rebound = vB = vB
2
1
= 2gl
2
Now in view of conservation of energy we have
1 1
mg [l – l cos ] = m· 2gl
2 4
1
1 – cos  =
4
cos  = 0.75
 = 41°25'
3.29. In the simple pendulum shown in the Fig. 3.18 the mass of the bob
m = 170 gm and the length of the string l = 1 m. The bob initially at A is at
rest. When the bob is released it swing through an angle  = 30° and strikes
a spring of force constant K = 1960 N/m at B. Find the compression in the
spring.
Solution: According to conservation of energy
1
mg [l – l cos 30] = Kx2 ; x is the compression in the spring
2
3 1
mgl 1 = Kx2
2 2
mgl 2 3 = Kx2
mgl [0.268]
x =
K
On substituting the values of various terms
we have
3
170 10 9.8 1 0.268
x=
1960
= 1.5 cm Fig. 3.18

3.30. A particle travels along a parabolic path given by x = 4ay with a

2

constant speed v. Calculate the value of the maximum acceleration acting

on the particle.
Solution:
x2
y =
4a
dy x
=
dx 2a
d2 y 1
2 =
dx 2a
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 121
The radius of curvature  is given by

d2 y 1
1 dx 2 2a
= = 3
 2
3
2
x
2 2
dy 1
1
dx 2a

For acceleration to be maximum  should be minimum. The same

will be obtained by putting x = 0.
1 1
 =
 2a
v2 v2
or acceleration = =
 2a
3.31. A particle is projected with an initial velocity v at an angle  with the
horizontal in the earth’s gravitational field. Calculate the radius of
curvature of the path when the particle is at the highest point of its
trajectory.
Solution: The particle will describe a parabolic path given by
1 x2
y = x tan  – g 2
2 v cos2 
2
d y gx
= tan  – 2
dx v cos2 
d2 y g
2 = –
dx v cos2 
2

d2 y
1 dx 2
=
 dy
2
3
2

1
dx

dy 1
The value of at the highest point is obtained by putting x =
dx 2
Range
v2
= · sin  · cos 
g
dy v 2 sin  ·cos 
Now = tan  – g · · 2 =0
dx g v cos2 
1 d2 y
 =
 dx 2
122 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

1 v 2 cos2 
or  = 2
=
d y g
2
dx
3.32. A particle moves in xy plane with a velocity v whose magnitude is
constant and describes an ellipse with semi major and semi minor axes
as a & b respectively. Find the acceleration of the particle and the radius
of curvature of the ellipse at the point x = 0.
Solution: The equation of ellipse is given by
x2 y2
+ =1
a2 b2
b
y =± a2 x2
a
b
Let us take y = – a2 x2
a
dy b 1 1 dx b 1 dx
=– × a 2 x 2 2 × – 2x · = a2 x 2 2 x ·
dt a 2 dt a dt
d2 y b 1 2 dx xdx
=    a  x    2x ·
3
2  2

dt 2 a 2 dt dt
1  xd 2 x
 dx   
2
b
 a 2  x 2  2  2    
a  dt  dt   
At x = 0
2
d2 y b dx bv 2
= · a –1
=
dt 2 a dt a2
v2 v 2 ·a 2 a2
Radius of curvature r = = 2 =
acceleration bv b
3.33. A particle initially at the origin moves in xy plane with a velocity
V = ai + bxj. Where a and b are constants. Find (i) the path of the particle
(ii) the radius of curvature of the trajectory.
Solution:
(i) V = ai + bxj
dx
= velocity along x axis = a
dt
 dx = adt
or x = at
dy
= bx
dt
dy = b · at · dt
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 123

abt 2
or y =
2
On combining the two we have
ab x 2
y = · 2
2 a
b
or y = · x2
2a
Thus the particle will describe a parabolic path.
dy b
(ii) = ·x
dx a
d2 y b
=
dx 2 a

d2 y b
1 dx 2 a
= =
 3 3
  dy 2  2   bx 2  2
1     1    
  dx     a  
3

a   bx  
2 2

or  = 1 
   
b   a  
3.34. A scooter moves along a sine curve represented by y = b sin (x/)
where b and  are constants (see Fig. 3.19). Assuming the coefficient of
friction between the road and the tyre as k determine the velocity with
which the scooter rides without sliding.
Solution:
x
y = b sin  

dy b x
= cos  
dx   Fig. 3.19
2
d y b x
2 = – 2 sin   
dx   

d2 y b x
 sin  
1 dx 2 2 
= =
 3 3
  dy  2
 2  b2 2  x 
2

1     1  2 · cos   
  dx       
124 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

The scooter will ride without sliding when

mv 2
Kmg cos  =

dy
or v2 = Kg cos ; = tan 
dx
3
 b2  x  2
Kg 1  2 · cos2   
     1
or v2 = ·
b x 1
sin    b 2
 x   2

1  2 · cos   
2
2 
    
Kg · 2

or v2 
b
Kg
or v  
b
4a 2
3.35. A ball A of mass m moves along a parabolic path y = x as shown
b2
in Fig. 3.20. Calculate the reaction force of the track on the ball when it is
at the point O.
Solution: As the ball decends through a its velocity v is given by
v = 2ga
dy 8a x
=
dx b2
2
d y 8a
= 2
dx 2 b
d2 y 8a
1 dx 2 b2
= =
 3 3
  dy   2 2   8ax 2  2 Fig. 3.20
1     1    
  dx     b  
At the point O x = 0
1 8a
 = 2
 b
At the point O we have
mv 2 8a
R – mg = = m · 2ga × 2
 b
16a 2
R = mg 1
b2
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 125
3.36. A 3 kg ball is attached at the middle of a 2.828 m long weightless
string as shown in Fig. 3.21. The ends of the string are attached to the two
points of a rod A and B which are 2 m apart. The ball is rotated in a vertical
circle at a speed of 4 m/sec. Find the tension in the string when the ball is
(i) at the lowest point (ii) in the horizontal position (iii) at the highest
point.
Solution:
(i) In the lowest position, we have
mv 2
2T1 cos  – mg =
r
mv 2
mg 
 T1 = r
2 cos 
On substituting the values
of various terms we have
3 42
3 9.8
T1 = 1
2 1.414 Fig. 3.21

= 27.37 N.
(ii) In the horizontal position we have
mv 2
2T2 cos  =
r
mv 2
 T2 =
2 r cos 
On substituting the values we have
3 42
T2 =
2 1 1.414
= 16.97 N
(iii) At the highest point we have
mv 2
2T3 cos  = – mg
r
mv 2
 mg
 T3 = r
2 cos 
On substituting the values we have
3 42 3 9.8
T3 =
2 1.414
= 6.57 N
126 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

3.37. A thin circular wire of radius r containing a bead of mass m rotates

about a vertical axis with an angular velocity . Find (i) the angle  at
which the bead rests relative to the wire (ii) the normal reaction force
on the bead.
Solution:
(i) Let N be the normal force then in view of
Fig. 3.22 we have
N sin  = m2r sin 
 N = mr2
m2r sin   2r
tan  = = · sin 
mg g
g
cos  = 2
r
g
 = cos–1 2
r
1
 g 2 2
(ii) N sin  = m2r 1  4 2  Fig. 3.22
 r 
3.38. Two balls of masses m and 2 m suspended through two strings of
same length l forms two pendulums as shown in the Fig. 3.23. The
pendulum of mass m is kept at rest at an angle of 1 = 45° with the vertical.
When the ball is released from its rest position it strikes the ball of the
second pendulum elastically. Calculate the angle 2 through which the
second pendulum will be deflected.
Solution: Let v1 and v'1 and v2 and v'2 be the velocities of the two balls
before and after impact then we have
mv1 + 2m · 0 = mv'1 + 2mv'2
or v'1 + 2v'2 = v1 ... (1)
According to conservation of energy we have
1 1 1 1
m v12 + · 2m · 0 = m v1 2 + · 2m v22
2 2 2 2
or v12 = v1 2 + 2 v22 ... (2)
Now v12 – v1 2 = 2 v22
and v1 – v'1 = 2 v'2
On dividing the two we have
v1 + v'1 = v'2 ... (3)
v1 + v1 – 2v'2 = v'2
or 2v1 = 3v'2
2 Fig. 3.23
or v'2 = v ... (4)
3 1
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 127
In view of conservation of energy we have
1 1
m v12 = mgl [1 – cos 45] = mgl 1
2 2
or v1 = gl 2 2
Again in view of conservation of energy we have
1
· 2m · v22 = 2m · gl [1 – cos 2]
2
1 4
or · · v12 = gl [1 – cos 2]
2 9
2
or × gl 2  2  = gl [1 – cos 2]
9
2
× 0.586 = 1 – cos 2
9
0.13 = 1 – cos 2
cos 2 = 0.87
2 = 29° 30'
3.39. A smooth hollow tube PQ as shown in Fig. 3.24a is one fourth arc of
R
a circle of mean radius R. The tube is filled with a chain of length and
2
mass m. The chain is released from rest. Find the velocity with which it
will move along the frictionless horizontal plane QG after emerging out
of the tube.

Fig. 3.24a Fig. 3.24b

Solution: In Fig. 3.24b, consider an element of length dL, such that

dL2 = dx2 + dy2
For a circle x2 + y2 = R2
 xdx = – ydy
x
 dy = – · dx
y
128 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

x2 R
Now dL = dx 2  · dx 2 = · dx
y2 y
y component of centroid is given by
R R

R
· dx y·
Y= R
0  ydL
=
y 0
=
2R
 R 
0 
dL
2
2R
Thus the y component of centroid is at a distance of from the

centre of the arc.
 2R 
Now in Fig. 3.24a, the centroid is at a height of  R   above Q. In
  
view of conservation of energy we have
1  2
mv 2 = mg · R  1  
2  

 4
or v = gR  2  
 
= 0.727 gR
= 0.85 gR
3.40. A smooth hollow semi-circular tube of mean radius R completely
filled with a chain of mass m is placed in a vertical plane as shown in the
Figure 3.25. A slight disturbance causes the chain to move. Find the
velocity with which the chain will emerge from end Q of the tube.
2R
Solution: The y component of centroid is at a height above O (see

Question No. 3.39).
According to conservation of energy we have
1 2R R
mv2 = mg · + mg ·
2  2
4  y axis
v= g    R
 
Q O P
= 4.414 gR x axis

v = 2.1 gR Fig. 3.25

3.41. A conical pendulum of length l = 40 cm rotates at constant speed v

in a horizontal circle of radius r = 20 cm as shown in the Fig. 3.26. How
much of the string must be pulled through the tube to double the speed
of ball?
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 129
Solution: In view of the forces acting on the ball we have
mv 2
T cos  = mg and T sin  =
r
v2 1
 tan  = =
rg 3
2
v
Similarly tan ' = ; v' is the velocity of the ball when it moves in a
rg
circular path of radius r'.
According to conservation of angular momentum we have
I11 = I22
v v
or mr 2 · = mr' 2 ·
r r
rv = r' · v' = r' · 2v (v' = 2v given)
r
 r' =
2
2 4v 2
tan ' = = 8 tan 
r ·g
8
=
3
r r 8
sin ' = = =
l 2l 67
r 67 Fig. 3.26
 l' =
16
On putting the value of r = 20 cm
20 67 5 67
l' = = = 10.2 cm
16 4
Length of the string pulled = l – l' = 40 – 10.2 = 29.8 cm.
3.42. A ball of mass m is resting on the
straight portion of the track shown in the
Fig. 3.27 at a height h about the lowest point
A. When the ball is released it enters into the
circular part of the track of radius r after
covering the linear portion of the track. Find
(i) the kinetic energy of the ball when it is at
the point O' (ii) the radial and the tangential
accelerations when the ball is at O'. Fig. 3.27
130 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution:
(i) The kinetic energy of the ball at O' is equal to the change in
potential energy.
 K.E. of the ball at O' = mgh – mg [r + r sin ]
= mg [h – r – r sin ]
1 1 7
(ii) Total kinetic energy of the ball = mv 2 + mv 2 = mv 2
2 5 10
7
mv 2 = mg [h – r – r sin ]
10
v2 10g  h 
 radial acceleration = =  1  sin  
r 7  r 
On differentiating the above equation we have
2va 10g d
=– cos  ·
r 7 dt
va 5g d
=– cos  · ; =
r 7 dt
5g
 tangential acceleration a = – cos 
7
3.43. On imparting an initial velocity v0 to the ball shown in the figure it
begins to move in a horizontal circle of radius R on the horizontal plane
abcd as in Fig. 3.28. Assuming the coefficient of friction between the ball
and the plane as  determine the time required for the ball to come to
rest.
Solution:
I = – mgR; m = mass of the ball
m · R 2 dv
or · = – mg
R2 dt
dv
or = – g
dt
0 t

 v0
dv = – g  0
dt
– v0 = – g · t Fig. 3.28

v0
or t =
g
3.44. A small object of mass m placed at the point O on the surface of a
smooth cylinder of radius R slides down along OA. At A it detaches from
the surface and after travelling freely in air it strikes at horizontal plane
at B (see Fig. 3.29). Find the length BC.
Solution: At A we have v2 = 2gR (1 – cos )
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 131

mv 2
and = mg cos 
R
 v2 = R g cos  = 2 gR (1 – cos )
or 3 cos  = 2
2
or cos  =
3
2gR
Velocity at A =
3
2gR
Horizontal component of this velocity vx = · cos 
3
2 2gR
= ·
3 3
2gR
Vertical component of this velocity vy = · sin 
3
10gR
5 2gR 3
= · =
3 3 3
Point A is at a height R + R cos  above the horizontal plane.
Time required to fall from this height is obtained by the equation.
10gR
2R 5R 3 t 1 2
R+ = = + gt
3 3 3 2
10R 40 R t
or = × + t2
3g 3g 3
40 R 1 40 R 40 R
  
3g 3 27 g 3g
t = 
2
40 R 1 20 R
 
3g 3 3 3g
=  Fig. 3.29
2
1 R
= 10 10
3 3g
1 10 R
= 10 1
3 3g
10 R 2.162
= ×
3g 3
132 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

2 2gR 10 R 2.162
Distance BC = × × + R sin 
3 3 3g 3
4 R 5 2.162 R 5
= +
27 3
= R [0.7162 + 0.7453]
= 1.461 R
3.45. A smooth sphere of radius R is
made to translate in a straight line with a
constant acceleration a. A particle A kept
on the top of the sphere is released from
there at zero velocity with respect to the
sphere (see Fig. 3.30). Find the speed of
the particle with respect to the sphere as
a function of angle .
Solution: The sphere moves through a
distance BC = R sin  with an acceleration
a hence velocity v1 is given by
v12 = 2aR sin 
Fig. 3.30
Now AB = R (1 – cos )
Velocity v2 in the vertical direction is given by
v22 = 2gR (1 – cos )
 v 2 = v12 + v22 = 2R [a sin  + g – g cos ]
1
or v = 2 R (a sin   g  g cos )2
3.46. A sleev A can slide freely
along a smooth rod bent in the
shape of a half circle of radius R
as shown in Fig. 3.31a. The
system is set in rotation with a
constant angular velocity 
about a vertical axis OO'. Find
the angle  corresponding to the
steady position of the sleeve.
Solution: Normal force N will act
along AB (see Fig. 3.31b).
N sin  = m2 R sin 
and N cos  = mg
mg
· sin  = m2 R sin 
cos  Fig. 3.31a Fig. 3.31b
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 133
or sin  (2R cos  – g) = 0
when sin  = 0
=0
when 2R cos  – g = 0
g
cos  = 2
 R
When 2R > g, there are two positions of equilibrium one is  = 0 and
the other  = cos–1 g/2R.
When 2R < g then sin  = 0 or  = 0 is possible.
3.47. A particle is projected along the inside of a vertical hoop from its
lowest point with such a velocity that it leaves the hoop and returns to the
point of projection again. Find the velocity of projection and determine
where the particle leaves the hoop.
mv 2
Solution: At point P of Fig. 3.32, we have mg cos  = ; r = radius of
r
the hoop
 v = gr cos 
v 2 sin2  = 2gh
gr cos  r
h= · sin2  = cos  · sin2 
2g 2
r
Time of flight for OO' = T = 2  2 cos   cos  · cos2  
g
Time t to cover a height h is given by
v sin  g
t= = · r cos  · sin 
g g
r cos  · sin 2 
=
g
r cos  · sin 2 
PP' = gr cos  · cos  ·
g
= r cos2  · sin 
a = r sin  – r cos2  · sin  = r sin3 
r
r sin3  = T v cos  =
g
 2  2 cos   cos  · sin2  · gr cos  · cos 

sin6  = 2 cos3  + 2 cos4  + cos4  · sin2 

2 cos3  + 2 cos4  + sin2  (cos4  – sin4 ) = 0
2 cos3  + 2 cos4  + sin2  (cos2  – sin2 ) = 0
134 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

2 cos3  + 2 cos4  + (1 – cos2 ) (2 cos2  – 1) = 0

2 cos3  + 3 cos2  – 1 = 0
1
cos  = – 1 or cos  =
2
1 1
mv = mg (r + r cos ) +
2
mgr cos 
2 2
3r r
= mg
2 4
7
= mgr
4
7gr
V=
2
3r
H = r + r cos  = Fig. 3.32
2
3.48. A solid cylinder of radius R rolls on a plane ABC as shown in figure.
Find the maximum value of the velocity v0 which will allow the cylinder
to roll on the inclined plane section without a jump.
Solution: With respect to the line AB' of Fig. 3.33, we have energy equation
as
2 2
1 1 mR 1 1 mR
2
m v0 + 2
+ mgR = mv +2
2 + mgR cos ;
2 2 2 0
2 2 2

Fig. 3.33

0 = angular velocity when cylinder moves along AB

 = angular velocity when cylinder moves along BC
v = linear velocity along BC
1 1 1 1
or m v02 + m v02 + mgR = mv2 + mv2 + mgR cos 
2 4 2 4
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 135
4
 v2 = v02 + gR (1 – cos )
3
mv 2
For no jump = mg cos 
R
or v2 = gR cos 
4
hence gR cos  – gR (1 – cos ) = v02
3
gR
or v0 = (7 cos   4)
3
3.49. A mass point of mass m is situated at the origin of x-axis. A bar of
length L and mass M lies on the x-axis. The end near the mass is at a
distance a from it (see Fig. 3.34). Find the gravitational force of attraction
between the two masses.

Fig. 3.34
Solution: Let us consider an element of length dx within the rod lying at
a distance x from the origin.
M
Mass of the element = dx
L
Gravitational force of attraction between the element and mass m
is given by
M dx
dF = G · m ·
L x2
GmM L  a dx GmM
Net force on the bar is given by F = dF =
L
 a x 2 =
a ( L a)
3.50. A thin wire of mass m1 bent in the form of
an arc of radius R subtends an angle  at its centre
m1
(see Fig. 3.35). Calculate the force of attraction of
the wire on a point mass m2 placed at the centre
of the arc.
d

m1
Solution: Mass per unit length of the wire =
R /2 
Consider an element subtending an angle d
at the centre.
m2
m1
Mass of the element = · R · d Fig. 3.35
R
136 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

G · m1 Rd
Gravitational field due to the element at the centre =
R ·  · R2
G · m1
= d
R2 
G m1 cos  · d
The effective component of the gravitational field =
R2

Gm
Net gravitational field at the centre = 2 2 1  2 cos  d
R  0
2Gm1 
= · sin
R 
2 2
2Gm1m2 
 Force of attraction of the wire on mass m2 = sin
R2  2
3.51. Find the force of attraction of a solid sphere of mass M and radius
R on a particle of mass m placed at a distance r (r < R) from its centre.
Solution: The mass of the sphere which will cause the force is given by
M 4 Mr 3
· r3 =
4 R 3 3 R3
3
G · Mr 3 m
F = · 2
R3 r
G M mr
=
R3
3.52. A solid sphere of mass M and radius R has a non-uniform density
that varies with r, the distance from the centre by relation  = Ar. Determine
the force on a particle of mass m placed inside the sphere.
Solution: Consider a shell of radius r and r + dr
4
The mass of the shell =  (r dr )3 r 3 Ar
3
4
=  · 3r2 dr · Ar
3
= 4A r3dr
R
Total mass M =  4A r3dr
O
M =  AR 4
M
A =
R 4
Let the particle be at a distance r from the centre of the sphere.
Consider a shell of radius r and r + dr.
4
Mass of the shell =  (r dr )3 r 3 Arr = 4Arr3dr
3
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 137
Mass of the sphere which will cause the force
r
M' = 4 A  0
r 3dr
=  Ar 4
M
=  r4 ·
R4
Mr 4
=
R4
G · Mr 4 m G Mmr 2
Gravitational force = 4
· 2 =
R r R4
3.53. A hemispherical thin shell of mass M and radius R has a small particle
of mass m placed at its centre. Find the force of attraction between them.
Solution: Consider an element of width Rd (see Fig. 3.36).
M
Mass of the element = · 2R sin  · Rd
2 R2
Gravitational force between the particle
Gm M sin  · d
and element =
R2
 GMm
Net gravitational force =  0 sin  cos  d Fig. 3.36
2

R2
GMm
=
2 R2
3.54. A thin rod AB of mass M and length 2l and a particle of mass m is
placed as shown in the Fig. 3.37. Calculate the gravitational force of
attraction between the rod and the particle.
m
y axis
O




C
A B x axis
x
2l

Fig. 3.37
Solution: Consider an element of length dx situated at a distance x from
the point C in the AC portion of the rod.
G·M dx
Gravitational field due to this element at O = · 2
2l a x2
138 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Gravitational force between the element and particle

GMm dx
= · 2
2l a x2
AC GMm · xdx
Net gravitational force along –ve side of x axis = 
2l  a 2  x 2  2
0 3

GMm
= (1 – cos )
2l · a
GM AC a·dx·m
Net gravitational force along –ve side of y axis = 
2l 0
· 3
a2 x 2 2
GMm
= · sin 
2l · a
Similarly net gravitational force between BC portion of the rod and
GMm
particle along +ve side of x axis = (1 – cos )
2l · a
Net gravitational force between BC portion of the rod and the particle
GMm
along –ve side of y axis = sin 
2l · a
Total gravitational force along –ve side of y axis
GMm
= Fy = (sin  + sin )
2l · a
Total gravitational force along +ve side of x axis
GMm
= (cos  – cos )
2l · a
Result gravitational force between the rod AB and particle.
GMm
 sin   sin     cos   cos  
2 2
F=
2l · a
GMm 
= sin  
l·a  2 
3.55. A homogenous rod of mass m1 is turned in the form of semi-circle
of radius R as shown in Fig. 3.38. Calculate the force experienced by a
particle of mass m2 placed at the centre of the semi-circle.
Solution: Mass per unit length of the
m
semi-circle = 1
R
Consider an element of length dL
m dL
mass of the element = 1
R Fig. 3.38
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 139
Gravitational force between the element and the particle of mass m2
m1 dL m2
is given by G · · 2
R R
Out of the two components of the above force the effective component
G · m1 dL m2
is given by · 2 · sin 
R R
 G · m1m2 sin  · Rd

2
Net gravitational force = F = 2 0  R3

2 G · m1m2
 cos  d 
2
=
R 2 0

2Gm1 m2
=
 R2
3.56. A rod of length L is placed along x axis keeping its one end at a
distance l from the origin. The mass per unit length  varies with distance
x by the relation  = k0 + k1 x2 where k0 and k1 are positive constants. Find
the force experienced by a particle of mass m placed at the origin.
Solution: Consider an element of length dx situated at a distance x from
the origin (see Fig. 3.39). Force between the particle and the element is
given by

Fig. 3.39

G · m ·  k0  k1 x 2  · dx
dF =
x2
lL lL
dx
Net force F = dF = G · m · k0 
l
x2
+ G · m · k1  dx
l

1 1
= G · m · k0 + G · m · k1 · L
l l L
G m · k0 · L
= + Gm · k1 L
l (l  L )
3.57. A ring is made of a thin wire of radius r. Find the force of attraction
between the mass point of mass m placed along the axis of the ring of
radius R at a distance x from its centre.
Solution: Consider an element of length dl on the circumference of the
140 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

circle of radius R. The mass of this element = r2dl ·  where  is the density
of the material of the wire.
The force of attraction between the element chosen and the point
Gmr 2dl 
mass is dF =
R2  x2 
This force will have two
components dF sin  and dF
cos . From considerations of
symmetry, dF sin  vanishes.
Therefore the net effective force Fig. 3.40
is given by

 mGr 2  x 2 R
F =  dF cos  = 3  0
dl
R 2
x 2
 2

2  r R Gm x
2 2

= 3

R 2
 x 2 2
3.58. A small particle of mass m' is placed at the axis of a circular wire of
mass m and radius r at a small distance from the centre as shown in
Fig. 3.41. Show that the particle will execute simple harmonic motion.
Find the period of oscillation.
Solution: The gravitational field at O at a distance
x from the centre is given by
G ·m · x
EG = 3

r
 x 2 2
2

Equation of motion of the particle of mass Fig. 3.41

m' for small values of x is given by
G · m x · m
m' · acceleration = –
r3
Gm
acceleration = – 3 displacement.
r
The acceleration is proportional to displacement hence the particle
will execute simple harmonic motion.
2 Gm
 = =
T r3
r3
or T = 2
Gm
3.59. Calculate the intensity of gravitational field at P due to an infinitely
long straight wire of mass per unit length .
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 141
Solution: Consider an element of length dx placed at a distance x from O
as shown in Fig. 3.42. The gravitational field at P due to the element is
given by
G d x
dI =
x 2
r2 
This field will be in the direction PA. This has two components:
dI cos  along PO and dI sin  perpendicular to it. If we consider a similar
element at a distance x below O then we come across similar fields. The
field in the perpendicular direction will vanish. The net field will be along
PO.
 G  dx A dx
 I = dI = 2  x0 2
 r2 
cos 
x

r P
 dx O
=2Gr  3

x  r 2 2
0
2

Fig. 3.42
Let x = r tan 
dx = r sec2 d

r 2G 2G

 /2
Now I = 2Gr cos d =
2
sin  0 =
r3 0
r r
3.60. A solid cylinder of mass M, radius a and height h and a particle of
mass m are placed as shown in the Fig. 3.43. Find the force of attraction
between them.

Fig. 3.43

Solution: Consider an element of thickenss dx situated at a distance x

from mass m. The element will be in the form of disc of radius a and
width dx. Upon this consider an element enclosed between circles of
radii r and r + dr.
Volume of the element = 2rdr · dx
M
Mass of the element = · 2rdrdx
a 2 h
The gravitational field due to this element at the particle of mass m is
given by
142 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

M r dr · dx
dE0 = 2G · ·
a 2h x 2 r 2
Gravitational field due to the element along the axis of cylinder
M r dr · dx
dE1 = 2G · 2 · 2 cos 
a h x r2
M r dr
= 2G · xdx ·
a 2h 3

x 2
 r 2 2
Gravitational field due to the disc considered
2GM a rdr
dE1 = dE =
a 2h
· xdx  3

x  r 2 2
0
2

2GM 1 1
dE = 2 xdx ·
ah x a 2
x2

2GM  h  d hd xdx 

Net gravitational field E = dE = 2
 dx   
a h  d d
a2  x 2 

2GM
2
h = a2 d 2 a2 (h d)2
a h
Force of attraction along the axis of cylinder is given by
2GMm
F = mE = h a2 d 2 a2 (h d)2
a 2h
3.61. A particle of mass m is at the centre of one end of a solid cylinder of
mass M, radius a and height h as shown in Fig. 3.44. The volume of the
cylinder is constant. For what value of a/h the force of attraction between
the particle and cylinder is maximum?
Solution: V = a2h
dV = 0 =  [2a · dah + a2 · dh]
da a
=–
dh 2h
Consider an element of thickness
dx situated at a distance x from the
particle of mass m. The element will
be in the form of disc of radius a and
width dx. Upon this consider an
element enclosed between circles of
radii r and r + dr Fig. 3.44
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 143
Volume of the element = 2rdr · dx
M
Mass of the element = · 2rdr · dx
a 2 h
Effective gravitational field due to element at the particle.
GM rdr · xdx
dE1 = 2 ·
a 2h 3

 x 2  r 2 2
Gravitational field at the particle due to the disc

2G M a rdr
dE1 = dE =
a2h
xdx  3

x  r 2 2
0
2

2G M xdx
= dx
a2h a2 x2
Net gravitational field due to the cylinder

2G M  h h xdx 
E = dE = 2
  dx   
ah  0 0
a2  x2 

2G M
= h a2 h2 a
a2h
Force of attraction between the particle and cylinder is given by
2G M m
F= h a2 h2 a
a2h
2 G M m
F= h a2 h2 a
V
2 G M m ada hdh
Now dF = dh da = 0
V a2 h2
dh  a 2  h 2  h  = da a a2 h2
 

or  a2  h2  h = – a a a2 h2
  2h
a 2 h2 [2h – a] = (2h2 – a2)
On simplification we have
4a2 – 9ah + 4h2 = 0
a 9 17
=
h 8
144 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

3.62. Three thin uniform rods marked as 1, 2 & 3 having same mass M
and length a are placed in the same plane and form an equilateral triangle.
Find the force acting on a particle of mass m placed at the intersection of
the medians of the triangle.
Solution: Consider an element of length dx placed at a distance x from
the centre of the rod 1 (see Fig. 3.45).
Gravitational field at O due to the element
M dx
G· · 2
a l x2
The effective gravitational field
M dx · cos 
due to the element = G ·
a l2  x2 
2 3
G M l dx O
= 3
a l 2  x 2  2
l
Net gravitational field due to the 

2G M l a /2 dx x
rod 1 =
a  3
1

l 
0
Fig. 3.45
2
x 2 2

2G M
=
l a 2 4l 2
The gravitational field due to the other two rods will have the same
value. The resultant field at O is zero. Therefore force acting on the
particle of mass m is equal to zero.
3.63. Two bodies of masses m1 and m2 are d apart. Find the gravitational
potential at a point in between the masses where the field is zero.
Solution: Let us choose a point O in between the two masses at a distance
x from m1.
Gm1 G m2
2 =
x (d x )2
m1 · d
or x =
m1  m2
Gravitational potential at
Gm1 G m2
O =– –
x d x
Gm1 Gm2
=– m1 m2 – m1 m2
m1 · d m2  d
G
=– m1 m2 2 m1m2
d
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 145
3.64. An astronant of mass m = 60 kg is connected to a satellite of mass M
through a L = 70 m long cord. The satellite is moving around earth in the
close vicinity of earth. Calculate the tension in the cord when the satellite
and the astronaut are arranged as in Fig. 3.46.
Solution: For the satellite the equation of motion is
G Me · M 42
= M · R · ;  = period of revolution
R2 2
R = radius of earth
For astronaut the equation of motion is
m 4 2 G Me · m
(R + L) = + T ; T = tension in the cord
d
 R  L
2 2

4 2 R 4 2 L G Me 2L T
+ = 1 +
2
 2
R2 R m
4 2 L 2 GM e · L T
=– +
2
R 3
m
3G Me · L
·m=T
R3
3mgL
or T = ; GMe = gR2
R
On putting the values
3 60 9.8 70 Fig. 3.46
T=
6400 103
= 19.3 × 10–3 N
3.65. A particle of mass m is dropped from a height (h << R) above a hole
drilled along the vertical diameter of earth. Calculate the speed of the
particle at the centre of the earth.
Solution: According to conservation of energy
G Me m 3 G Me m 1
– + mgh = – + mv 2
Re 2 Re 2
1 G Me 1 2
+ + gh = v
2 Re 2
GMe
or v = 2gh
Re
3.66. A body falls to the ground from a great height h. Neglecting the
resistance of the air, find (i) the velocity v with which the body will strike
the surface of earth (ii) the time that the body will take to reach to the
surface of earth.
146 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution:

dv G · Me · m
(i) m = ; x is the vertical height through which the
dt  Re  h  x 2
body falls
dv dv g Re2
= ·v= 2
dt dx Re h x
v x dx
 0
vdv = g Re2  R
0
 h  x
2
e

1 1
v 2 = 2g Re2
Re h x Re h
2g · Re x
v= ·
Re h Re h x
Velocity at the surface of earth will be obtained by putting x = h
2gRe h
v=
Re h
dx 2g · Re x
(ii) = ·
dt Re h Re h x
T Re h 1 h Re  g  x
 0
dt =
2g
·
Re  0 x
dx

Re h 1  Re  h  R h  
T= · · · cos1  e   Re h 
2g Re  2  Re  h  
3.67. Under the influence of a central force at O a particle moves in a
circular orbit passing through O. Find the law of force.
Solution: In polar coordinate the equation of circle of radius a is given
by
r = 2a cos 
1
If the orbit is given by r = r () and u = u () where u = the central
r
force can be found by using the relation.
mh2  d 2r 2  dr  
2

f(r) =  2     r  ; r  = h
2

 d r  d 
4
r 
1  du 2 
or f = – m h2 u2  2  u 
u  d  
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 147
y
1 sec 
Now u = =
r 2a
du sec  tan  p
=
d 2a

d2 u sec3   sec   tan2  o 2a
x
=
d2 2a
1  sec 3   sec  · tan 2  sec  
f = – mh2u2    Fig. 3.47
u  2a 2a 
mh 2u2  sec3 
=–
a
2 2
mh u
=– · 8u3a3
a
8a 2mh2
=–
r5
3.68. A particle of mass m approaches earth from a large distance with an
initial speed v0. Calculate (i) the impact parameter b of the particle so
that it passes off tangentially to the earth surface (ii) the ecentricity of the
orbit.
Solution: Initial angular momentum, L1 = mv0b
1
Initial energy = m v02
2
Angular momentum at B = mvR; v = velocity
1 GMm
Final energy = mv2 – ; R = radius of earth
2 R
In view of conservation of angular momentum we have
vb
v= o
R
1 1 G Mm
m v02 = mv 2 –
2 2 R
b 2
2GM
or v02 = v02 2 –
R R
1
 2GM  2
b = R 1  2  Fig. 3.48
 v0 R 
1
  v  2
2
GM
= R 1  2  c   ; vc =
  v0   R
1 1 e v02 b 2
B is perigee of the orbit at = ;p=
rmin p GM
148 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

2
p v 2b 2 v
Eccentricity e = –1= 0 –1=1+ o
rmin GMR vc
Since v0 > vc
e>1
The path is therefore hyperbola.
3.69. A space vehicle travels along a parabolic path with the earth at its
focus. Calculate its total mechanical energy.
Solution: When the vehicle is at the apex of the parabola, its total energy
mv02 GmM
W= – ; r0 is the distance between earth and vehicle
2 r0
GmM mv02
For curved path we have = ; R0 = radius of curvature.
e.
r02 R0
GMm mv02
= · r0
r0 R0
mv02 mv02r0 1 r0
W = – = m v02
2 R0 2 R0
R0
r0 =
2
 W = O

3.70. A particle of mass m is in a force field of the type F = – e . Where

e
r2 r
 is a positive constant, and er is the unit vector of the particles position
vector. The particle was placed at a point where the position vector is r0
and the initial velocity v0 perpendicular to r0 was imparted to it. Find
the trajectory of the particle.
1
Solution: Taking r = the differential equation for the path of the
u
particle in a central field is
1
f
d2 u u
+u=– wheree h = r2 
d2 mh2 u 2

Potential energy V = – f (r )dr = – = – u

r
General equation of conic is
p 1
r= =
1  cos  1 
 cos 
p p
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 149

1  
Let = 2 ; =C
p mh p
1 
u = = + cos 
r mh2
2
 du  2 (E V )
From conservation of energy   + u2 =
 d   mh 2
On putting the values we have
2
   2E 2   
(–C sin ) + 
2
2
 C cos   = 2 + 2 
 cos  
 mh
2
 mh mh  mh 
 2E
C= 
m2 h 4 mh 2

1   2 E mh 2 
u= =  1  1  cos  
r mh2
  2

2 E mh 2
1 
Eccentricity  = 1  and E = m v02 –
2 2 r0

 = 1   mv02  2  mr04  2
 r0 
 2  mr 2 v 2
= 1   mv 20  0  02 0
 r0  
2 2
For hyperbola m v02 – > 0 since  > 1 or v0 >
r0 mr0
2
For parabola  = 1  v0 =
mr0
2
For ellipse  < 1  v0 <
mr0
3.71. A body of mass m is thrown vertically up with an initial velocity u
from the north pole of the earth. To what height will the body ascend?
Solution: Let us consider a body of mass m. Let it be thrown vertically up
from the north pole N of the earth with an initial velocity u and let it
ascend up to A such that AN = h (see Fig. 3.49). In view of conservation of
energy,
G Me m G Me m 1
– = mu2
Re h Re 2
150 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

where Me = mass of earth

Re = radius of earth
G = gravitational const.
G Me mh 1
or = mu2
Re h Re 2
We know that GMe = g Re2
Fig. 3.49
Therefore,
g Re h 1 2
= u
Re h 2
2 g Re h
or = Re + h
u2
2g Re
or h 1 = Re
u2
Re
or h =
2 g Re
1
u2
3.72. Three particles each of mass m are situated at the vertices of an
equilateral triangle of side length a. The force acting on the particles is
their mutual gravitational force. It is desired that each particle moves
in a circle by maintaining their original separation. Find (i) the velocity
of each particle (ii) the period of the circular motion.
a 3
Solution: (i) From Fig. 3.50 AD = a sin 60 =
2
2 a
r = OA = AD =
3 3
Gm2
The gravitational force acting between the two particles =
a2
Net gravitational force along the
2Gm2
centre of the circle = · cos 30
a2
3 G ·m 2
=
a2
In order to describe a circular path
we must have
3 ·G ·m2 mv 2 mv 2 3
= =
a2 r a
Gm
v= Fig. 3.50
a
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 151
2 r
(ii) Time period =
v
3
2 a 2a2
= · a · = 1
Gm 3
(3Gm)2
3.73. Calculate the magnitude and the direction of the gravitational field
at a point P on the perpendicular bisector of the equal masses separated
by a distance 2l as shown in the Fig. 3.51. For what value of r the field will
be maximum?
Solution: The gravitational field at a point P due to one mass is given by
G m
=
l 2  r 2  2 Gm cos 
Net gravitational field due to both the masses I =
l 2
r2 
2G mr
= 3

l 2
 r 2 2
This will be in the direction PO.
For maxima or minima
  l
dI  1 3 r · 2r  
= O = 2Gm  3
 · 5  O
r
P
2 2
dr  l 2  r 2  2  l  r 
2 2
 l
 
2G m  l 2  2r 2 
= 3

l  r 2 2
2 Fig. 3.51

l
r=
2
d2I l
With this value of r, 2 assumes a negative value hence for r =
dr 2
the gravitational field is maximum.
3.74. Calculate the force of attraction on a particle of mass m placed at
the vertex of a solid cone of mass M, height h and radius R as shown in
Fig. 3.52a.
Solution: Consider an element of thickness dy at a depth y from the vertex.
The element will be in the form of disc. Upon this disc consider an element
of radius x and x + dx.
Volume of the element = 2 xdxdy
3M
Mass of the element = · 2xdx · dy
 R2 h
152 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Fig. 3.52a Fig. 3.52b

Gravitational force between the element and particle of mass m

G · 6M · m xdx
= dy · 2
R2h x y2
G · 6M m xdx
Effective gravitational force = 2 · dy · 2 · cos  (see
Rh x y2
Fig. 3.52b)
y tan  G · 6 M m dy · xdx · y
Net gravitational force due to the disc =  0 R2h
·
 x2  y 2 
6G M m
dF = · dy (1 – cos )
R 2h
6G M m h
dF = · dy 1
R 2h h 2
R2
Net gravitational force between the cone and particle is given

h 6G M m h
F = dF =  0 R2h
1
h 2
R2
· dy

6G M m h
= 1
R2 h 2
R2
3.75. A solid hemisphere of mass M and radius R has a particle of mass m
placed at its centre. Calculate the force of attraction between them.
Solution: Consider an element of thickness dy located at a height y above
the centre (see Fig. 3.53). The element is in the form of disc of radius
a= R2 y 2 . Upon this disc consider an element of radius x and x + dx.
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 153
Volume of the element = 2 xdx · dy
3M
Mass of the element = · 2dy · xdx
2 R3
3M
= dy · xdx
R3
Gravitational force between the element and the particle of mass m
G · 3M · m xdx
= 3
· dy · 2
R x y2
G · 3M · m dy · xdx
Effective gravitational force = · 2 cos 
R3 x y2
G · 3M · m xdx G · 3 Mm · y · dy xdx
= · dy · 3 = 3
R3
R3
x
y  2 2 2
x 2
 y 2 2
Net gravitational force due to disc
G · 3M · m a xdx
dF = · y · dy  3
R3
x  y 2 2
0
2

3G M m 1 1
dF = ydy
R 3
y R
Net gravitational force between
Fig. 3.53
hemisphere and particle
3G M m  R 1 R 
F = dF =
R 3 

 0
dy 
R  0
ydy 

3G M m R
F= R
R 3
2
3G M m
=
2 R2
3.76. A solid hemisphere of mass M and
radius R and a particle of mass m are placed
as shown in the Fig. 3.54. Find the
gravitational force of attraction between
them.
Solution: Consider an element of thickness
dy located at a height y above the centre O.
The element is in the form of a disc of radius
R 2 y 2 . Upon this disc consider an
element of radius x and x + dx.
Volume of the element = 2 xdx · dy
Fig. 3.54
154 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

3M
Mass of the element = 2 xdx · dy
2 R3
Gravitational force between the element and the particle of mass m
G · 3M · m xdx
= 3
· dy · 2
R x ( y R)2

G · 3 Mm xdx · cos 
Effective gravitational force = · dy · 2
R 3
 x  ( y  R)2 
Net gravitational force due to the disc
R2  y 2 G · 3M m xdx
=  0 R3
(R + y) dy · 3
 x 2   y  R 2  2
 
3G M m  1 1 1 
dF = 
(R + y) dy  · 
R3  y  R 2R y  R 
Net gravitational force between the solid hemisphere and the
particle.
3G Mm  R 1 R 
F = dF =   0 dy   y  R · dy 
R 3
 2R 0

GMm
= 2 1
R2
3.77. In Fig. 3.55 a particle of mass m lies at a distance l from a thin
homogenous disc of radius R and mass per unit area  on a line
perpendicular to its plane and passing through its centre. Calculate the
force which the disc acts on it.
Solution: Consider an element of radius x and x + dx on the disc of
radius R.
Area of the element = 2xdx
Mass of the element = 2xdx
Effective gravitational force
between the mass m and the
element is given by
G · 2xd x
dF = · m cos 
x 2
 l2 
xd x
= G · 2xml 3 Fig. 3.55
x 2
 l 2 2
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 155
R xd x
Net force F =  2 Gml 3

x  l 2 2
0
2

1 1
= 2Gml
l l 2
R2

l
= 2Gm 1 2
l R2
3.78. Calculate the gravitational force which a sphere of mass M and
radius a exerts on a particle of mass m placed at a distance r from the
centre of sphere.
Solution: Let  be the mass per unit area then
M
=
4 a2
Consider a slice of thickness ad (see. Fig. 3.56).
Radius of the ring = a sin 
Area of the strip = 2a sin  · ad 
Mass of the strip = 2a sin  · ad ·

Fig. 3.56
Let EP = p i.e. every point on the slice is at a distance p from the
point P.
Gravitational potential at P is given by
2  a 2  sin  · d  · G
dV = –
p
Further p2 = a2 + r2 – 2ar cos 
2pdp = 2ar sin ·d
a · r sin d
p=
dp
156 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

2  a 2  · p · dp · G
 dV = –
p ·a ·r
2  a G · dp
=–
r
2  a G r  a 4  a 2 G GM
V=–
r  r a
dp = –
r
=–
r
G Mm
Gravitational potential energy U = –
r
dU GMm
Gravitational force F = – =–
dr r2
3.79. Calculate the pressure of the gas in the middle of the radius of sun.
The density is everywhere same and the acceleration due to gravity at
this point is half of the value at that of the surface of sun. Mass of sun
MS = 1.98 × 1030 kg, radius of sun = Rs = 7 × 108 m and G = 6.67 × 10–11 m3/kg.s2.
Solution: Assuming the gas to behave as a fluid the pressure can be
determined by the equation.
p = hg
Rs Ms G · Ms 3G · M s2
= · · =
2 4 2 Rs2 16  · Rs4
 Rs3
3
On substituting the values we have
11 2
3 6.67 10 1.98 1030
p= 4
16 3.14 7 108
= 6 × 1013 N/m2
3.80. At what height above the surface of earth the value of g will reduce
by 1%. Radius of earth = 6400 km.
Solution: At a height h the weight of a body is defined by
G Me ·m
mg' = 2
; Re = radius of earth
Re h
g Re2 99 g
g' = 2 =
Re h 100
10 Re = 99 (Re + h)
10 Re = 9.95 Re + 9.95 h
0.05 Re = 9.95 h
0.05  6400
h = = 32.2 km
9.95
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 157

3.81. A body is thrown from the surface of earth with a velocity 1.6 g Re .
How high it will rise.
Solution: When a body is projected with a velocity less than the escape
velocity then it will describe as elliptical path.
According to conservation of angular momentum
m  1.6 g Re · Re = mv (Re + h); h is the height attained
Re
v = 1.6 g Re ·
Re h
According to conservation of energy we have
1 G Me m 1 Re2 G Me m
· m · 1.6g Re – = m · 1.6 g Re · 2 –
2 Re 2 Re h Re h
0.8 g R e3 g Re2
or 0.8g Re – g Re = –
Re  h
2
Re h
or 0.8 Re2 – Re (Re + h) + 0.2 (Re + h)2 = 0
Re2 + 0.4 Re · h + 0.2h2 – Re2 – Reh = 0
0.2h2 – 0.6Reh = 0
0.2h [h – 3Re] = 0
h = 3Re
3.82. A missile is fired from the surface of earth with a velocity of g Re
where Re is the radius of the earth (see Fig. 3.57). At what angle  it should
3Re
be fired so that it may attain a maximum height H = ?
4
Solution: According to conservation of
energy we have

G Me m 1 GM e m
 + mgR e =  +
Re 2 3
Re  Re
1 4
 
2
m g Re · cos  ; g' is the value of g
2
3Re
at a height of .
4
G · Me m 16
Now mg' = 2
=m· ·g
 3 Re  49
 Re  
 4 
16 g
 g' =
49
Fig. 3.57
158 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

4 1 16 g
Now – gRe – 0.5 gRe = – gRe + × · Re · cos2 
7 2 49
8 1
cos2  =
49 14
8 1
or (1 – sin2 ) =
49 14
9
sin  =
2
16
3
sin  =
4
 = 49°
3.83. Calculate the net gravitational force acting on a particle placed inside
a hollow sphere.
Solution: Let P be any point in Fig. 3.58 inside a hollow sphere of surface
density . Through P draw two cones which are intersecting two areas S
and S'. Let S and S' be at a distance r and r' and let the solid angle at P
be .
Area of cone S = r2
Area of cone S' = r' 2
S cos  = r 2 and S' cos  = r' 2
r 2 
Mass of area S =
cos 
r 2 
Mass of area S' =
cos 
Intensity at P due to S in the
r 2  G
direction of PS =
cos  · r 2 Fig. 3.58
G
=
cos 
r 2  G G
Similarly intensity at P due to S' = =
cos  · r 2 cos 
Net intensity at P is zero.
Hence force acting on a particle placed inside is equal to zero.
3.84. Calculate the gravitational potential and gravitational field due to
a solid sphere of mass M and radius R at a point inside it at a distance r
from its centre.
Solution: Let P be a point in Fig. 3.59 at a distance r at which the potential
is to be determined. The solid sphere may be imagined to be made up of
an inner solid sphere of radius r surrounded by number of hollow spheres.
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 159
Therefore the gravitational potential at P is equal to potential due to inner
sphere + potential due to shells lying outside.
Potential at P due to inner sphere
4 r 3 G
of radius r = –  ;  = mass per
3 r
unit volume.
Consider a spherical shell of radius
x and x + dx.
Mass of the shell = 4 x2dx 
We know that potential at any point
inside the shell is equal to potential at
the surface, therefore, potential due to
4  x 2 dx  G
shell = –
x Fig. 3.59
= – 4xdxG
R
Net potential due to shell lying outside = – 4   G  r
xdx
= – 2  G [R – x2] 2

4
Total potential at P = –  r2 G – 2  G (R2 – r2)
3
4 3R 2 r 2
=– G
3 2
4 3R 2 r 2
=– R3G
3 2R 3
3R 2 r 2
V = – GM
2R 3

dV G Mr
Gravitational field = – = 
dr R3
3.85. Calculate the pressure due to gravitational compression inside a
sphere of radius R and mass M as a function of distance r from its centre.
Solution: Let p be the compression pressure at a distance r. Consider an
element of thickness dr and area A (see Fig. 3.60).
Outward force on the element = p · A
4
G · A · dr  · r 3 
Gravitational force =  3
r2
4
dp · A = – G · A · dr · 2 · r
3
160 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

4
3 
p = – G 2 rdr

4 r 2
p = – G 2 · · +C
3 2
at r = R, p = 0
4  R2
 C = G2 ·
3 2
2
p= G · 2 [R2 – r 2]
3
2 9M2
= ·G· [R2 – r2]
3 16 2 R 6 Fig. 3.60
3G M 2 r2
= 1
8R 4 R2
3.86. A chain of length l and mass m is placed on the surface of a smooth
solid sphere of radius R (R > l ) with one end fixed at point O as shown in
Fig. 3.61a. Find (i) the gravitational potential energy of the chain in
reference to the centre of the sphere (ii) the velocity acquired by the chain
after sliding through an angle  (iii) the tangential acceleration of the chain
as it begins to slide.
Solution: (i) Consider a small length dL of the chain.

Fig. 3.61a Fig. 3.61b

dL2 = dx2 + dy2

or dL = dx 2 dy 2
In a circle x2 + y2 = R2
xdx + ydy = 0
x
 dy = – dx
y
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 161

x2 R dx
 dL = 1 · dx =
y2 y
ydL
yc =
dL
R sin  R dx
=  0
y· ·
y l
l 
R2 sin  
R sin  2
R l
= = ;=
l l R

m g · R2 l 
Gravitational potential energy = sin  
l R
(ii) After sliding through an angle  (see Fig. 3.61b)
 l 
R sin    
 R
R · dx
y'c = 
R sin  l
R  2
l  
= sin    R   sin  
l    
Loss in potential energy
mgR 2  l   l 
 sin  R   sin   sin    R  
=
l     
1
= gain in K.E. = mv2
2
2gR 2  l   l 
v=  sin    sin   sin     
l  R  R 
  l 
dv 1 2g cos   cos    R   
  
(iii) = R· · ;
dt 2 l 1
 l   l  2

sin  R   sin   sin    R  

     d v
= =
dt R
1 2g 1
= R· · ·
2 l R
1
  l  2g  l   l 2
cos   cos    R   R · l · sin  R   sin   sin    R  
       
1
 l   l  2
sin  R   sin   sin    R  
    
162 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

g R cos   cos    l  
  
R  
=
l  
As it begins to slide  0
gR   l 
 Tangential acceleration = 1  cos  R  
l   
3.87. A tunnel is dug through the centre of the earth (see Fig. 3.62). A
particle is projected into the tunnel from A with an initial speed of gRe .
How long it will take to reach the other end of the tunnel.
Solution: According to conservation of energy
1 G Me m G Me m 1
mgRe – =– 3 Re2 x2 + m vB2 ; vB = velocity of
2 Re 2 Re3 2
the particle at B.
Further GMe = g Re2
1 g 1 2
 gRe – gRe = – 3 Re2 x2 + v
2 2 Re 2 B
x2
vB = 2 gRe 1
2Re2
0 t
dx
Now 
Re x2
=– 2 gRe
0
dt ; Velocity and displacement is
1 opposite to each other
2Re2
t = time taken by the particle to reach
the centre of the earth.
1
2 gRe · t = 2 Re · sin–1
2

= 2 Re ·
4
 Re
t= ·
4 g
 Re
Total required time = 2t =
2 g Fig. 3.62
3.88. A planet of mass m is moving in an elliptical orbit with the sun at its
focus. The perihelion and aphelion distances are r and R respectively. Find
the period of revolution of the planet considering Kepler’s law of planetary
motion.
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 163
Solution: Let a be the semi-major axis of the ellipse. Then 2a = r + R or
R r
a= . Now consider that the planet is moving round in a circular
2
orbit of radius (r + R)/2. The equation of motion of the planet in this orbit
is given by
GMs m R r 4 2
=m ×
( R r )/2
2
2 T2
where Ms = mass of sun and
G = gravitational constant
R r
3
4 2
or T =
2
2 GM s
( R r )3
or T = 
2G M s
3.89. A planet of mass m is moving in an elliptical orbit with the sun of
mass Ms at its focus. The perihelion and aphelion distances are r2 and r1
respectively. What will be the angular momentum of the planet relative
to the sun?
Solution: When the planet is at A (Fig. 3.63),
its total energy is given by
1 G M sm
m r22 22 –
2 r2 Fig. 3.63
Similarly, when the planet is at B, its
total energy is given by
1 GM s m
m r12 12 – , here 1 and 2 are the angular velocities of the
2 r1
planet. In view of the conservation of energy we have
1 G M sm 1 GM s m
m r22 22 – = m 12 r12 –
2 r2 2 r1
1  m r1 1 m r2 2 
2 4 2 2 4 2
1 1
or    = GMsm
2  mr12 mr22  r1 r2

1   I1 1   I 2 2  
2 2
1 1
or    = GMsm
2  mr1 2 2
mr2  r1 r2

where I1 and I2 are the moments of inertia of the planet about an axis
passing through sun. Further I11 = I22 = J.
J2 1 1 1 1
Therefore = GMsm
2m r12 r22 r1 r2
164 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

1 1
or J2 = 2GMsm2
r1 r2

2G M s m2r1r2
or J =
r1 r2
3.90. A spherical hollow is made in a solid sphere of radius R and mass M
by taking out a mass from it. The surface of the hollow touches the surface
of the sphere (see Fig. 3.64). A small solid sphere of mass m is placed at a
distance x from the centre of the sphere. Find out the gravitational force
of attraction between the two masses.

Fig. 3.64

4
Solution: Volume of the sphere =  R3
3
M
Mass per unit volume =
 4 3
 R
3
3
4 R
Volume of the spherical hollow = 
3 2
3
M 4 R M
Mass taken out = × =
 4 3 3 2 8
 R
3
Net force of attraction = Force due to solid sphere of mass M – force
due to solid sphere of mass M/8.
G Mm GMm
or F = 2 –
x 8( x R /2)2
The centre of the hollow sphere will be at a distance x – R/2 from the
mass m.
G Mm  1 
F= 1  2 
x2  8[1  ( R /2 x )] 
3.91. A double-star is a system of two stars moving around the centre of
inertia of the system due to gravitation. Find the distance between the
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 165
components of the double star, if its total mass equals M and the period
of revolution is T.
Solution: Fig. 3.65 shows a double-star system. The mass of the stars are
m1 and m2 such that m1 + m2 = M. The gravitational force on star of mass
m1 must be equal to the centripetal force required for its motion in a
circular orbit of radus r1,
G m1m2
i.e., 2 = m1 r1
2

r1 r2
Further, about the centre of inertia, we have the identity
m1r1 = m2r2
m1 r
or = 2
m2 r1
m1 m2 M r r
or = = 1 2
m2 m2 r1
Mr1
or m2 =
r1 r2
On substituting the value of m2, we have
G M r1 Fig. 3.65
3
= 2r1
r1 r2
1/3
 GMT 2 
or   = r1 + r2
 4 
2

3.92. Show that the total mechanical energy of a planet of mass m

moving in an elliptical orbit with the sun at its focus depends only on the
semi-major axis of the ellipse.
Solution: The motion of the planet of mass m around the sun is shown
in Fig. 3.66.
dr
Radial velocity of the planet = r =
dt
 d
Transverse velocity of the planet r  = r
dt
Radial angular momentum pr = m r
Fig. 3.66
Azimuthal angular momentum = p = mr2 
1 G M sm
Total energy W = m r 2  r 2  2  –
2 r
2 4 2
1  mr   G M sm
 m r 
2 2
or W = –
2m  r2  r
1  2 p 2  G M s m
=  pr  2  –
2m  r  r
166 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

dr d  mr 2  dr p dr
As pointed out above, pr = m r = m · = 2
· = 2
d dt r d r d
 1 dr 2  G M m
p 2
Now W =    1 – s

2mr 2  r d    r
Let the general equation of ellipse be
1
= c1 + c2 cos 
r
At r = a (1 – ),  = 0 and at r = a (1 + ),  = ; a = semi-major axis.
On substituting these two conditions c1 and c2 can be evaluated. With
these values of c1 and c2 the most general equation of ellipse is
1 1   cos 
=
r a 1   2 
On substituting the value of r in the expression of energy, we have
p2 1   cos   1   2  2  cos   G M m (1   cos )
2

W=   – s

2 ma 2 1   2 2
  1   cos   
2

a 1  2 
p2 G M s m 1   cos  
= 1   2  2 cos   –
2 m a 1   
2 2 2 a 1   2 
Since the total energy is independent of , on equating the coefficients
of  cos  = 0, we have
p2 G Ms m
=
2 m a 1   
2 2 2
2a 1  2  
The expression for energy is
GMsm 1  2  G M sm
W= ·   1 = –
a 1  2
 2   2a
3.93. A satellite revolves from east to west in a circular equatorial orbit
of radius R around the earth. Find the velocity and the acceleration of
the satellite in the reference frame fixed to the earth.
Solution: The velocity of the satellite, v' = v1 + v2
GM 2
where v1 = and v2 = R
R T
M = mass of the earth
and T = period of revolution of earth about its own axis
GM 2
 v' = + R
R T
The acceleration of the satellite, a' = a1 + a2
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 167

GM 2 GM
where a1 = and a2 =
R2 T R
GM 2  GM
 a' = 2 +
R T R
GM  2 R GM 
= 2 1  R · 
R  T GM R 

GM  2R GM 
= 1  
R2  T R 
3.94. Two particles of mass M1 and M2 are at rest an infinite distance apart.
Find the relative velocity of their approach.
Solution: The force exerted by M1 on M2 is given by
G M 2 M1 M1 M2
FM2 M1 = (see Fig. 3.67)
r2 r
GM 1 Fig. 3.67
Acceleration a2 of mass M2 =
r2
Force exerted by mass M2 on mass M1 is given by
G M 2 M1
F M1 M 2 = –
r2
GM 2
Acceleration a1 of mass M1 =
r2
G
Relative acceleration a = a2 – a1 = 2 (M1 + M2)
r
dv dv dr dv
We know that a = = · =– v
dt dr dt dr
On the basis of the above, we have
G M1 M2 dv
– 2 =v
r dr
V x
dr
or vdv = – G M1 M2 (x is the separation between the two
0
r2
particles)
2G M1 M2
or V 2 =
x
2G M1 M2
or V =
x
3.95. A tunnel is dug through the centre of the earth as shown in Fig. 3.68.
A particle of mass m is dropped through it. Find out its velocity at a depth
of 1 km. Radius of earth Re = 6400 km, g = 9.8 m/s2.
168 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution: Gravitational potential at A

GM
=–
Re
Gravitational potential at B
GM 3Re2 x2
=–
2 Re3
G Mm
Gravitational potential energy at A = – Fig. 3.68
Re
3Re2 x2
Gravitational potential energy at B = – GMm
2Re3
1
Change in energy = m vB2
2
GMm 3 G M m G M m x2
=– + –
Re 2 Re 2 Re3
2
1 G Mm G M m x
= –
2 Re 2 Re3
GM GMx 2
 vB =
Re Re3
GM GM Re x Re x
= 1 x 2 Re2 = 2
Re Re R e

g  Re  x   Re  x 
= ; GM = g Re2
Re
Here x = 6399 km. On substituting the value of g and Re we have
9.8 12,799 103 103 1
vB = 3
= 98 12,799 = 140 m/s
6400 10 8
3.96. Two satellites S1 and S2 revolved round a planet in coplanar circular
orbits in the same sense. Their periods of revolution are 1 hour and
8 hours respectively. The radius of the orbit of S1 is 104 km. When S2 is
closest to S1, find (i) the speed of S2 relative to S1, (ii) the angular speed of
S2 as actually observed by an astronaut in S1. (IIT 1986)
Solution: Let R1 and R2 be the radii of the two circular orbits in which the
two satellites S1 and S2 are revolving with periods of revolution T1 and
T2 .
Now according to Kepler’s law of planetary motion, we have
T12 = k R13 and T22 = k R23
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 169
2/3
T1 R1
or =
T2 R2
2/3
T2
R2 = R1 = 104 × 82/3 = 4 × 104 km
T1
 R2 = 4R1
2  R2 2 3.14 4 104
Now speed of S2 = v2 = = = 3.14 × 104 km/h
T2 8
2  R1
Speed of S1 = v1 = = 2 × 3.14 × 104 = 6.28 × 104 km/h
T1
Speed of S2 relative to S1 = |v2 – v1| = 3.14 × 104 km/h
v2 v1
Angular speed of S2 as observed from S1 =
R2 R1
3.14 104 
= 4 = rad/h
3 10 3
3.97. A satellite is revolving in a circular orbit of radius R around the
earth. By external efforts its kinetic energy is suddenly increased by 50%.
What maximum distance measured from the centre of the earth will be
attained by the satellite in its new orbit?
1
Solution: Let the initial kinetic energy be m v02 .
2
The kinetic energy of the satellite after its energy has been enhanced
by 50% is given by
1 1 1 1 3
mv2 = m v02 + · m v02 = m v02
2 2 2 2 4
3
 v = · v0
2
According to conservation of angular momentum
3
mv0 · R = mv'r ; v' is the velocity in the new orbit of radius r.
2
R 3
 v' = v0 ·
r 2
According to conservation of energy we have
3 G Mem 1 m · v02 · 3R2 G Mem
m v02 – = 2 –
4 R 2 2 r r
3 2 R 2
1 1 G Me
v 1 = GMe ; = v02
4 0 r2 R r R
170 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

3 2 R2 R
or v0 1 = v02 1
4 r2 r
3 R
or 1 =1
4 r
r = 3R
3.98. At what angle  with the horizontal should a missile be fired from
the surface of earth with an initial velocity v in order to attain a height
equal to the radius of the earth?
Solution: According to conservation of angular momentum
mv cos  · Re = mV cos  · 2Re
v cos 
 V cos  =
2
In view of conservation of energy we have
1 G Me m G Me m 1 v 2 cos 2 
mv 2 – =– +
2 Re 2 Re 2 4
1 2 Re v2
v – gRe = – g + cos2 
2 2 8
 cos 2  
v2 1   = gRe
 4 
2
cos 2  2 g Re 1 vese
1– = =
4 2v 2
2 v
1
2 2
1 vese
cos  = 2 1
2 v
3.99. Calculate the parking height of a geostationary satellite using
Re = 6400 km and g = 9.8 m/sec2.
Solution: The equation of motion is given by
G Mem
= mr2 ; r = radius of the path measured from the centre of
r2
the earth.
GM e
or = r3
2
1
 GM  3
or  2 e  = r
  
1
 gRe2T 2  3
or   =r
 4 
2
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 171
On substituting the values we have
1
 9.8  6.4  1012  (24  60  60)2  3
r =  
 4  3.142 
= 42.32 × 106 m
Parking height h = (42.32 – 6.4) × 106 m = 35.92 × 106 m
= 35920 km
3.100. The largest and the shortest distance of earth from the sun are R1
and R2. Find its distance from the sun when it is perpendicular to the
major axis from the orbit drawn from the sun.
Solution: For the motion of earth, let us start with the general equation of
1
ellipse = C1 + C2 cos 
r
When  = 0, r = R2 and when  = , r = R1
Using these conditions we have
1
= C1 – C2
R1
1
and = C1 + C2
R2
1 1
on adding 2C1 = +
R1 R2
R1 R2
 C1 =
2R1R2
Let r = R when  = 90
1 R R2
 = C1 = 1
R 2R1R2
2R1 R2
R=
R1 R2
3.101. A satellite is moving in a certain orbit of radius R = 2 × 104 km from
west to east around earth of mass M = 6 × 1024 kg. Calculate the time at
which it will pass over a point at the equator.
Solution: When the satellite is moving downwards east its angular velocity
increases hence.
2
GMm m v1 v2
=
R2 R
2
GM  2 2 
or =R 2  
R T t 
GM 2 2
or – =
R3 T t
172 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

On substituting the values we have

2 6.67 10 11 6 1024 2
= –
t 4 10 14
2 107
24  60  60
= 2.2366 × 10 – 0.726 × 10–4
–4

2 3.14 104
t =
1.5106 60 60
= 11.548 hrs.
3.102. A satellite moving around the earth at a height H = Re above the
surface of earth ejects a packet (see Fig. 3.69). The speed of the packet is
reduced to 1830 m/sec by using external methods. Determine (i) the speed
with which the packet will reach the surface of earth (ii) the angle  with
the vertical at which it will strike surface of earth. Re = 6400 km.
Solution: According to conservation of energy
we have
GM e m 1 GM e m 1
 + m v02 =  + mv2
2 Re 2 Re 2
or gRe v02 = v
On substituting the values we have
v= 9.8 6400 103 18302
= 8.128 × 103 m/sec.
According to conservation of angular
momentum we have Fig. 3.69
m · 1830 × 2Re = m × 8.128 × 103 sin  · Re
3660
sin  = = 0.4502
0.128 103
 = 26.8°
3.103. An artificial satellite of moon is revolving in a circular orbit of radius
 rm where rm = radius of moon. In the state of motion it experiences a
resistive force F = v2. How long it will stay in the orbit until it falls on the
surface of moon?
Solution: The equation of motion of satellite is given by
G · Mm · m mv 2
=
2rm2  rm
1 1 G · Mm
Kinetic energy of satellite = mv 2 = m
2 2 rm
G Mm · m
Potential energy of satellite = 
rm
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 173

G Mm · m g m · rm2 · m g m · rm · m
Total energy E =  =  = 
2 rm 2 rm 2
Now dE = F · dx = F · v · dt
3 3 1
dE g 2 ·r 2  g · r 2
= F · v = v2 · v = v3 =  m 3 m ; v =  m m 
dt
2   
3 3
g · m drm g 2 ·r 2
 m · = · m 3m
2 dt
2
m·  rm 
3
T
 rm 2 drm =  · dt
2  gm rm o

T=
m   1
 
1  m ·  1
 =
 
 g m  rm rm   g m · rm
3.104. An engine burn out a satellite which has reached an altitude h and
has velocity v0 forming an angle  with the vertical as shown in Fig. 3.70.
Calculate the maximum and minimum height attained by the satellite.
Solution: In view of conservation of energy we have
1 GM e m 1 GM e m
m v02  = mv 2  ; r0 = Re + h
2 r0 2 r
r = height attained
2 2
2 g Re R
v02 – = v2 – 2g e
r0 r
According to conservation of angular momentum
mr0v0 sin  = mrv
v 0 r0 sin 
v=
r
2 g Re2 v 2r 2 2 gRe2
v02 – = 0 20 sin2  –
r0 r r
2gR 2
r sin  2 gRe
2 2 2
1– 2 e = 0 2 – 2
v0 · r0 r v0 · r
2
r0v0
Let us put =
g Re2
 2  r 2 sin2  2r
1   = 0 2 – 0
   r r
(2 – ) r2 – 2r0 r +  r02 sin2  = 0
Fig. 3.70
174 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

2 r0  4 r02  4(2  )  r02 sin 2 

r =
2(2  )
r0 
= 1  1  (2  ) sin2  
2  
r0 
Maximum height = 1  1  (2  )  sin 2   – Re
2  
r0  2 
Minimum height = 1  1  (2  )  sin  – Re
2  
3.105. A satellite is launched in a direction parallel to the surface of earth
with a velocity v0 = 10 km/sec from an altitude of x = 0.6 × 106 m (see
Fig. 3.71). Calculate the maximum height attained by it. Radius of earth =
6.4 × 106 m.
Solution: According to conservation of angular momentum
mr0v0 = mr1v1
rv
 v1 = 0 0 ; r0 = (6.4 + 0.6) × 106 m = 7 × 106 m
r1
v0 = 104 m/sec.
According to conservation of energy we have
1 G Me m 1 GMe m
m v02 – = m v12 –
2 r0 2 r1
2 2 2 2
1 g Re 1 r0 v0 g Re
or v02 – = 2 –
2 r0 2 1 r r1
2
1 r 1 1
or v02 1 02 = g Re2
2 r1 r0 r1
1 2  r0  g Re2
or v0 1   =
2  r1  r0
r0 2 g Re2
1+ =
r1 r0 · v02 Fig. 3.71
On putting the value we have
r0 2 9.8 (6.4 106 )2
1+ =
r1 7 106 108
r
1 + 0 = 1.14688
r1
r0 7 106
r1 = = = 47.65 × 106
0.14688 0.14688
 Maximum height = (47.65 – 6.4) × 106 = 41.25 × 106 m
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 175
3.106. A satellite of mass m is revolving in a circular orbit of radius r0 with
speed v0 around earth (see Fig. 3.72). At a certain point in its orbit the
direction of motion of the satellite is changed by turning its velocity vector
through an angle  keeping its magnitude constant. As a result
of it the satellite moves into an elliptical orbit. Calculate the distances
and speeds of satellite both at perigee and apogee of the orbit. Given
3
cos  = .
5
Solution: While moving in the circular
orbit the angular momentum is given by
L0 = mv0r0.
Equation of motion is given by
G Me m mv02
=
r02 r0
G Me m G Mm
K.E. = and P.E.. =  Fig. 3.72
2r0 r0
When the satellite is at A then angular momentum about O is given
3
by mr0v0 cos  = mv0r0
5
According to conservation of angular momentum
3
mvprp = mv0r0
5
1 GM e m
Energy at P = E = m v2 –
2 r
1 9 v 20 r02 mr0 v 20
= m· –
2 25 r2 r
 9 2  r0
=  · x  x  m v02 ; here
ex=
 50  r
According to conservation of energy
9 2 1
x x m v02 = – m v02
50 2
or 9x2 – 50x + 25 = 0
5
x = 5 or
9
with x = 5 r0 = 5rp
r0
rmin = perigee = rp =
5
9 r0
rmax = apogee =
5
176 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

vmax at perigee = 3v0

v
vmin at apogee = 0
3
3.107. Two spaceships move around earth in the same elliptical path
of eccentricity e. At perigee the two ships are separated by a small
distance d. Calculate the separation between them at apogee.
Solution: According to Kepler’s law the areal speed is constant.
 rmin · d = rmax · x
rmin 1 e
x = ·d= d
rmax 1 e
3.108. A satellite while moving around earth has maximum and minimum
orbital speed as vmax and vmin respectively. Calculate the eccentricity of
the orbit.
Solution: According to conservation of angular momentum
m · vmax · rmin = m vmin · rmax
The general equation of conic is
l
= 1 + e cos 
r
l l
From this = 1 – e and =1+e
rmax rmin
l l
Now m · vmax · = m · vmin
1 e 1 e
vmax v
= min
1 e 1e
vmax 1 e 2e
–1= –1=
vmin 1 e 1 e
vmax 1 e 2
+1= +1=
vmin 1 e 1 e
v vmin
 max =e
vmax vmin
3.109. Two equal spheres of radius r and density equal to mean density of
earth are placed at a very large distance. Find the common speed with
which they will collide each other due to their mutual force of attraction.
Solution:
1 1 G · m2
mv 2 + mv 2 =
2 2 2r
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 177
4 3
G· r 
G ·m 3
v2 = =
2r 2r
4 r2
= G··
3 2
2
GMe = g Re
4
G·  Re3 ·  = g Re2
3
4 g
 G·=
3 Re
g
v= r
2Re
3.110. A particle is in a circular orbit of height h above the surface of
earth. Find the value of h if the work done to take the particle to the
orbit is equal to its kinetic energy in the orbit.
Solution:
Re  h
G Me m · dx G Me m · h
Work done = 
Re
x 2 =
Re  Re  h 
G Mem · h 1 mv 2 G Me m
As given = mv2; =
Re  Re  h  2 Re h Re h
2

G · M e mh 1 G Mem
= ·
Re  Re  h  2 Re h
Re
h =
2
3.111. A star with a mass of more than three times that of the sun contracts
so much upon cooling that it is not able to radiate; neither material
particles or light are able to overcome its gravitational field. Such objects
are known as black hole. Find its radius.
Solution: The star will retain light and material particles if its escape
velocity is equal to velocity of light.
G · M star · m 1
= mc 2
Rstar 2
2 G · M star
 Rstar =
C2
2 G · 3M S
=
C2
6G · M S
=
C2
178 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

On putting the values we have

6 6.67 10 11 1.98 1030
Rstar =
9 1016
= 8.8 km
3.112. A cosmic body moves towards sun with velocity v0 from a very
large distance. The arm of vector v0 is at a distance l from the centre of
the sun (see Fig. 3.73). Find the minimum distance rmin by which the body
will get to the sun.
Solution: According to conservation of angular momentum we have
mv0l = mrmin · v
and according to conservation of energy we have
1 GM s · m 1
m v02 =  + mv2
2 rmin 2
2GM s v2 l2
v02 =  + 02
rmin rmin
2 2GM s
rmin + rmin – l 2 = 0
v02
2GM s 4G 2 M s2
rmin =  ± 4l 2 2
v02 v04 Fig. 3.73
1
 GM 2  2
GMS
=  2 S   l 2  –
 v0   v02
2
GM lv02
rmin = 2s 1 1
v0 GM S

3.113. Calculate the amount of work

performed in transferring a particle of
mass m from the centre of hemisphere
of mass M and radius R to infinity.
Solution: Work done = Mass of the
particle × potential at the centre of
hemisphere.
Consider an element at P having
coordinates r,  and  (see Fig. 3.74).
Volume of the element Fig. 3.74
= r 2 sin  · dr · d · d
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 179

3M
Mass of the element = r2 sin  · dr · d · d·
2 R3
Potential at the centre of the hemisphere due to the element
3M d · r 2 dr · d
=–G· · sin 
2 R3 r
G · 3M  2 R 2
Net potential at the centre = –  sin  d   0 rdr ·  0 d
2R 3 0

G · 3M R2
=  3 × 1× × 2
2R 2
3G M
= 
2R
3G Mm
Work done = 
2R
3.114. Earth is moving around sun in a circular orbit. Determine the path
of earth if its velocity at any point of its orbit is increased by 41.4%.
Solution: Equation of motion of earth is given by the relation
G MS Me Me v02
=
R2 R
G MS
v0 =
R
After increasing the velocity by 41.4% its new velocity v = 2 v0
or v2 = 2 v02
Under this condition earth will describe a parabolic path with sun at
its focus.
3.115. A plant is moving around the sun in a circular orbit with a period
of revolution T. Calculate the time in which it will fall into the sun when
it were suddenly stopped into its orbit.
Solution: Let the planet be suddenly stopped at P. Its velocity is zero. It
GM s
will move towards the sun along the line PS with an acceleration
r2
(see Fig. 3.75).
dv dv dr dv GM
= · =v· =  2 s (Since r is decreasing)
dt dr dt dr r
dr
vdv = – GMs ·  2
r
v2 GM s
= +A
2 r
GM s
at r = R, v = 0  A = 
R
180 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

1 1 
v= 2GMs   
r R 
dr 2GM s R r
Now =– · here –ve sign has been introduced since
dt R r
r is decreasing
r 2G M s t

0
 R
 dr
R r
=
R 0
dt

Let us substitute r = R cos2 


2 R · cos  · sin  d  · R · cos  2GM s
 0
2

R sin 
=
R
·t

2GM s
 2
0
R (1  cos 2 ) d  =
R
·t

 2GM s
R· = ·t
2 R
3
R2
t=
2  2GM s
G Ms 4 2
3 = 2 = 2
R T
3
2 R 2
T=
GM s
In view of this Fig. 3.75
1T
t = ·
2 2 2
2T
=
8
3.116. Two particles of masses m1 & m2 moving in
the parabolic path in the same plane around sun P
collides at right angles and coalesce (see Fig. 3.76). 90
At this instant their common distance from sun is
R. Determine the substiquent path of the combined R
particle.
S
Solution: Let V1 and V2 be the velocities of the two
particles at P then we have
2GM s
V12 = V22 =
R
Fig. 3.76
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 181
The above identity shows that the two velocities are equal.
2
Now m1 m2 V 2 = m12 V12 + m22 V22 ; V = velocity of the combined
mass
m12 m222
V2= 2 V1
m1 m2
From the above relation it is observed that
2GMS
V 2 < V12 <
R
Therefore the path of the combined mass is an ellipse.
For point P
2 1
V 2 = GMS ; a = semi-major axis of the ellipse..
R a
m12 m22 m12 m22 2GM s 2 1
V12 = = GMs
m1 m2
2
m m
2
R R a
1 2

1 2 m12 m22 4m1 m2

= 1 2 = 2
a R m1 m2 R m1 m2
2
R m1 m2
 2a =
2 m1 m2
This is the length of the semi-major axis of the ellipse.
3.117. Two satellites A and B of same mass m moves in equatorial plane
of earth close to its surface. A moves in direction of earth’s rotation whereas
B against it. Find the ratio of kinetic energy of B to that of A in the reference
frame fixed to the earth. g = 10 m/sec2 Re = 6400 km.
Solution:
m v 1   R e 
2
G Me m
2
= For A
Re Re

 gR e  R e = v1 
m v 2   R e 
2
G Me m
2
= For B
Re Re

 gR e   R e = v2
1 2
m  gR e   R e 
 Ratio of kinetic energy K = 2
1 2
m  gR e   R e 
2
182 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

On putting the values we have

2
2 3.14 6400 103
10 6400 103
24 60 60
K= 2
2 3.14 6400 103
10 6400 103
24 60 60
2 2
4 3.14 4 3.14
= 8 8
27 27
2
228.56
=
203.4
= 1.263
3.118. A satellite of radius r1 moves around a planet of radius r3 in a circular
orbit with a period T. The distance between their surfaces is r2. Find the
mass of the planet.
Solution: The equation of motion of the satellite is given by
G · Mp · MS
= MS (r1 + r2 + r3) · 2 ; Mp = mass of planet
r1 + r2 + r3 
2

Ms= mass of satellite

G · Mp 42
or =
r1  r2  r3 
3
T2
4 2 · r1  r2  r3 
2

 Mp =
G ·T 2
3.119. The escape velocity on the surface of earth is 11.2 km/s. A
small body is projected out with thrice this speed. What will be the
speed of the body far away from the earth ? Radius of earth = 6400 km,
g = 9.8 m/s2.
Solution: According to the law of conservation of energy, we have
G Me m 1 1
 + m (3ve )2 = mv2
Re 2 2
Me = mass of earth, ve = escape velocity and Re = radius of the earth
2G M e
or v 2 = 9 ve2 –
Re
= 9 ve – 2g Re ; GMe = g Re2
2

v= 9ve2 2 g Re
CIRCULAR MOTION AND GRAVITATION 183
On substituting the values of ve, g and Re, we have
v = 9 11.2 11.2 2 9.8 10 3 6400
= (9 × 11.2 × 11.2 – 2 × 9.8 × 6.4)1/2 km/s
= 31.66 km/s
3.120. What is the angular deflection of a light beam which passes by the
sun at its edge.
Solution: Let the mass of the light beam be ml. The gravitational force
GM m
F = 2 s 2l
l y
Component of the force acting along the x-axis
GM s ml · l
Fx = F sin  = – 3/2 (see Fig. 3.77); MS = mass of sun)
l 2  y 2 

Fig. 3.77
d
Now ml · (v ) = Fx where vx is the velocity along x-axis..
dt x
dy 1
ml vx = Fx dt = Fx = Fx dy ; c = velocity of light
vy c
2 GM s l  dy 2G M s
vx  –  3/2  –
c 0
l  y 
2 2 cl
2G M s
when l = RS (radius of sun), then vx 
c Rs
vx 2GM s
= angular deflection = = 2
c c Rs
 4
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION
4.1. Six particles of mass 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 kg are placed at the corners of
a hexagon of side L. Find out the distance between the centre of the
hexagon and the centre of gravity.
Solution: In view of the geometry of the hexagon, the coordinates of
points A, B, C, D, E and F are shown in Fig. 4.1.
Now
L L L L
1   2  L  3   4   5  L  6
L
x= 2 2 2 2 =–
21 7

Fig. 4.1

L 3 L 3 L L
1  2  30  34 3 5  0 6 L
y=  2 2 2 2 = 3
21 7
Distance between the centre of hexagon and centre of gravity
L2 3 L2 2L
= =
49 49 7
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 185
4.2. A square hole is cut out from a circular uniform disc of radius R (see
Fig. 4.2). The diagonal of the hole is equal to R. Show that the centre of
R
mass of the remaining portion of the disc is at a distance from
2 2 1
the centre of the disc.
Solution: Let OD = L. Then we have L2 + L2 = R2
R
or L =
2
R2
Area of the square =
2
Area of the disc = R2
Area of the remaining portion
R2
= (2 – 1)
2
Taking the moment about the point
O we have
R2 R2 R
 (2 – 1) × OG =  × Fig. 4.2
2 2 2
(here  is mass per unit area)
R
 OG =
2 (2 1)
4.3. A circular plate of uniform thickness has a diameter of 56 cm. A
circular portion of diameter 42 cm is removed from one edge of the plate
as shown in Fig. 4.3. Find the centre of mass of the remaining portion.
(IIT 1980)
Solution: OA = 28 cm.
O'A = 21 cm
 OO' = 7 cm
Mass of the disc of radius 28 cm
= 282 ·  (here  is mass per unit area)
Mass of circular hole of radius 21 cm
=  · 212 
Mass of the remaining portion
=  (282 – 212)  =  × 49 × 7 × 
Fig. 4.3
Taking moment about O, we have
 × 49 × 7 × OG =  × 212  × OO'
212 7
 OG = = 9 cm
49 7
186 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

4.4. A hemisphere of radius R is made up of a nonuniform material. If the

density  at any point at a distance x from the centre is  = 0 x2, find the
centre of mass of the hemisphere.
Solution: Consider a section of the
hemisphere. The section is a circular disc of
radius y and thickness dx (see Fig. 4.4).
Mass of the section
 (R2 – x2) dx 0 x2
If X is the distance of centre of mass from
O, then

0  R 2 x 3 dx   x 5 dx 
R R

R

X=
0
xdm
=
 0 0 
0  R 2  0 x dx   0 x dx 
R R R

2 4
dm
0 
R 6 /4 R 6 /6 5
= = R Fig. 4.4
R /3 5
R /5 5
8
4.5. Two identical spheres of mass m are placed at two of the vertices of
an equilateral triangle. A sphere of mass 2m is placed at the other vertex.
Find the centre of the mass of the system formed.
Solution: Let L be the length of the y axis 2m
triangle. The coordinates of the three (L/2, L/2/ 3)
masses are shown in Fig. 4.5.
Now
L
m 0 m L 2m
X= 2 = L
4m 2 m
m x axis
3
m 0 m 0 2m L (0,0) (L,0)
Y= 2 = L 3
Fig. 4.5
4m 4
4.6. A thin bar of length L is placed along x axis as in Fig. 4.6. The mass
per unit length of the bar varies with x via relation  = ax where a is a
positive constant. Find the x coordinate of centre of mass.
Solution: x component of centre of mass is given by
L L y axis
 0
xdm  0
x · d x
xc = =
 dm
L
 0
 dx
3
L L
a  x2d x 2 dx
= 32 = L
0
= L x axis
a  x dx L 3 x
0 Fig. 4.6
2
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 187
4.7. A wooden board is of mass M is in the form of right angle triangle of
base L1 and height L2 as shown in the Fig. 4.7. The mass per unit area of
the board is constant. Find the y component of centre of mass.
2M L2
·  L1  x  dy
 y·
y dm L1 L2 0
Solution: yc = = L2 2 M
dm
 0 L1 L2 ·  L1  x  dy
L2
 y  L1  x  dy y axis
0
= L2
 0  L1  x  dy
L2 y L2
Further =
L1 x y
x
L1 y x axis
x= L1
L2
On substituting the value of x we have Fig. 4.7
L2

yc =
 y  L  y  dy
0 2

L2
  L  y  dy
0 2

L32
L32
= 23 = L2
L22 3
L22
2
4.8. Find x and y component of centre of mass of a quadrant of a disc of
radius R.
Solution: Consider two concentric circles of radius r and r + dr and two
lines at angles  and  + d.
Area of the element = rd · dr see Fig. 4.8.
4M
 R 2 · x · rd · dr
xc = ; M = mass of the disc
4M
 R 2 · rd  · dr

=
 r cos  · rd · dr
 rd · dr

R
 2
0
cos  · d   r 2 dr
0
xc = 
R
 2
0
d  ·  r dr
0
3
R
3 4R
= 2 =
R 3 Fig. 4.8
·
2 2
188 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

4M
 R 2
· yr d  · dr
yc =
4M
 R 2
· r d · dr

=
 r sin  · r d · dr

 r d · dr
R
 sin  d  r dr
2 2
0 0
= 
R
 0
2 d  ·  r dr
0
4R
=
3
4.9. Find the centre of mass of a right circular cone of height h and semi-
vertical angle .
Solution: Consider a disc perpendicular to the axis of the cone at a depth
y from the vertex.
Radius of the disc = y tan 
Volume of the disc =  y2 tan2  · dy
M
Mass of the disc = ·  y2 tan2 · dy
1 2 2
h tan ·h
3
3M
= 3 y2 · dy
h
3M 3
h h4
 3
· y dy
= 43
0 h
yc =
h 3M h
 0 h3 · y dy 3
2

3
= h
4
4.10. Two uniform spheres composed of
the same material and having radii 3 cm
and 6 cm respectively are united as
shown in the Fig. 4.9. Find the centre of
mass from the centre of the sphere of
radius 6 cm.
4 3 4
 3 ·   15   63    6
Solution: yc = 3 3
4 3 4 3
 3   6 
3 3
Fig. 4.9
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 189

27 15 36 36 45 144
= =
27 36 6 3 24
= 7 cm.
Thus the centre of mass is 7 – 6 = 1 cm above the centre of the larger
sphere.
4.11. Determine the coordinates of the centroid of the area of one
quadrant of an ellipse with semi-major and semi-minor axes a and b
respectively.
Solution: Consider an element of thickness dx as shown in Fig. 4.10.

xc =
 xdA y axis

 dA
=
 x · y · dx
 y · dx b
For an ellipse we have
x2 y2
+ =1 x
a2 b2 x axis
a
y2 x2
= 1  Fig. 4.10
b2 a2
a  x2
2

=
a2
b
y = a2 x2
a
On putting the value of y we have
b
 x a  x · dx
2 2

xc = a
b
a
a 2  x 2 · dx
a
 0 x a  x · dx
2 2

= a
 a  x · dx
2 2
0
3 a

a 2  x 2 2
3 a3
4a
=  0
a = 32 =
1 1 x 
a 3
 x a  x  a sin
2 2 2
 4
2 a 0
4b
On similar lines yc =
3
190 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

4.12. Find the centroid of the area of the circular section AOB of radius r
subtending an angle  at the centre.
Solution: Consider an element subtending an angle d. see Fig. 4.11.
xdA
xc =
dA
d
dA = r2 and x = x component
2
of the centroid of the element
2
= r cos 
3 
2 r 2 d
2  2 r cos  ·
0 3 2
 xc =
 r d
2
2
0 2
4r
= sin
3 2
From symmetry yc = 0 Fig. 4.11

4.13. Find the coordinates of the centroid of the area OAB (see Fig. 4.12)
b
in which part OA is a portion of parabola represented by y = 2 x2.
a
Solution: Consider an element of width dx and height y then

xc =
xdA
=
 x · y · dx
dA  ydx
a b
 0
x·
a2
· x 2 dx
3
= a b
= a
4
 0 a2 · x dx
2

y y
2
dA  2 · ydx
yc = =
dA  ydx Fig. 4.12
a

b 0 2 x 2 dx
= 4 ·
2a b a 2
a2  0
x dx
3
= b
10
4.14. Determine x component of the centroid of the area between the
x axis and the half sine wave OAB as shown in the Fig. 4.13.
x
Solution: The equation of the sine wave is given by y = a sin
b
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 191
Consider an element of width dx and height y.

xc =
 x · ydx
 ydx
b  x 
a  x · sin   dx
0
 b 
=
b  x 
a  sin   dx
0
 b 
b Fig. 4.13
=
2
4.15. Determine the centroid of the length of the arc AB (see Fig. 4.14) of
radius r forming an angle  at the centre.
Solution: The x component of the centroid is given by
xdL B
xc =
dL dL
Now dL2 = dx2 + dy2 x
y
and x2 + y2 = r2

xdx + ydy = 0 O
/2
r
 dL = · dx
y r
xr · dx
 y
 xc = A
 dL Fig. 4.14
rx · dx
 r 2  x2
=
 dL
x = r cos 

r · r cos  · r sin  d 
2 2
0 r sin 
xc =
r
2
2
2r
=sin
 2
On symmetry considerations yc = 0
4.16. A 4 kg mass moving with an initial speed of 5 m/sec collides and
sticks to a 6 kg mass initially at rest. The combined mass then moves to
collide with a 2 kg mass and stick to it. Prior to collision the 2 kg mass was
at rest. Find the speed of the mass formed and the amount of energy lost
in the process.
192 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution: According to conservation of momentum we have

4 × 5 = 10 × v
 v = 2 m/sec
10 × 2 = 12 × v'
10 2 5
 v' = = m/sec
12 3
Amount of energy lost is given by
1 1 25
× 4 × 25 – × 12 × = 33.33 Joule
2 2 9
4.17. A 0.2 kg ball is attached to one end of a 2 m long string. The other
end of the string is pivoted at O (see Fig. 4.15). The ball is released from its
rest position keeping the string horizontal. The ball swings down and
collides with a 0.4 kg block resting on a frictionless surface elastically.
Calculate the speed of the ball and block after collision.
Solution: In view of conservation of energy the velocity of the ball before
collision is given by
1
0.2 × 9.8 × 2 = × 0.2 v12
2
 v1 = 9.8 4
According to conservation of momentum we have
0.2 v1 + 0.4 × 0 = 0.2 v'1 + 0.4 v'2 ; v'1 = velocity of the ball after
collision
v1 = v'1 + 2v'2 v'2 = velocity of the block after
collision.
According to conservation of energy
1 1 1
× 0.2 v12 = × 0.2 v1 2 + 0.4 v22
2 2 2
v12 = v12  2v2 2
2
v1 v1
v = v1 2 + 2
2
1
4
4 v = 4 v1 + 2 v1 + 2 v12 – 4v1v'1
2
1
2 2

6v12 – 4v1v1  2v1

2

4v1 16v12 48 v12

v'1 =
12
8v1  4v1 v 9.8 4
=  =– 1 =–
12 3 3 Fig. 4.15
= – 2.086 m/sec.
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 193
v1
2v'2 = v1 +
3
2 v1 2 2.086
v'2 = = = 1.39 m/sec
3 3
4.18. Three particles A, B and C of equal masses move with equal speed
of v along the meridians of an equilateral triangle as shown in the Fig. 4.16.
They collide at the centroid G of the triangle. After collision A comes to
rest, while B retraces its path with the speed v. What is the velocity of C.
Solution: Before collision the momentum along x axis is given by
mv cos 30 – mv cos 30 = 0
Before collision the momentum
along y axis is given by
mv sin 30 + mv sin 30 – mv = 0
After collision. Let V be the
velocity of C in a direction as shown
in the figure then along x and y axes
we have
mv cos 30 = mV cos 30
and mv sin 30 = mV sin 30 Fig. 4.16
 v =V
i.e. C will move with the velocity of B in the direction BG.
4.19. A moving particle of mass m makes a head on elastic collision with
a particle of mass 2m which is initially at rest. Show that the colliding
8
particle looses th of its energy after collision. (Roorkee 1982)
9
Solution: Let u be the initial velocity of mass m and v1 and v2 be the
velocities of the two masses m and 2m after collision then according to
conservation of momentum we have
mu = mv1 + 2mv2
u = v1 + 2v2
u v1
 v2 =
2
According to conservation of energy we have
1 1 1
mu2 = m v12 + · 2m · v22
2 2 2
or u2 = v12 + 2 v22
2
u v1
or u2 = v12 + 2
4
2 2
or 2 u v12 = u v1
194 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

or 2 (u + v1) = u – v1
u
v1 = –
3
1 u2
 Final kinetic energy of particle of mass m = m
2 9
1 1 mu 2
mu 2
 loss in K.E. of the particle = 2 2 9
1
mu2
2
8
=
9
4.20. A ball of mass m moving with a velocity v collides with another ball
of same mass. Prior to collision the second ball is at rest. If the coefficient
of restitution be e then find the ratio of velocities of the two balls after
collision.
Solution: e is defined as
v v1
e= 2 ; where u1 and u2 are the velocities of the two balls before e
u1 u2
collision and v1 and v2 are the velocities after collision.
v v1
Now e = 2
v
or ev = v2 – v1
According to conservation of momentum we have
mv = mv1 + mv2
 v = v1 + v2
or e (v1 + v2) = v2 – v1
(e + 1) v1 = (1 – e) v2
v 1 e
 2 =
v1 1 e
4.21. A golf ball dropped from rest on a surface from height h. It rebounds
to eight tenths of the height h. Find the coefficient of restitution.
Solution: The velocity with which the ball approaches the surface is given
by
u = 2gh
The velocity with which the ball recedes from the surface is given by
8
v= 2 gh
10
v
e= = 0.8 = 0.89
u
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 195
4.22. A ball of mass m moves with a velocity v and hits a stationary ball of
mass 3m. Assuming the coefficient of restitution e = 0.5, find the velocities
of the two balls after collision.
1 v v1
Solution: e = = 2 ; v1 is the velocity of the ball of mass m
2 v
after impact
or v = 2v2 – 2v1 v2 is the velocity of the ball of mass 3m
after impact.
According to conservation of momentum we have
mv = mv1 + 3mv2
v = v1 + 3v2
v1 + 3v2 = 2v2 – 2v1
3v1 = – v2
v = v1 – 9v1
v
 v1 = –
8
3v
v2 =
8
4.23. Consider a one dimensional elastic collision between a given
incoming body A and body B, initially at rest. How would you choose the
mass of B in comparison to the mass of A in order that B should recoil
with (a) greatest speed (b) greatest momentum and (c) greatest kinetic
energy. (Roorkee 1983)
Solution: Let mA and mB be the mass of the two bodies.
According to conservation of momentum we have
mA v = mA v1 + mB v2 ; v1 is the velocity of A after collision v2 is the
velocity of B after collision
mB
v = v1 + v
mA 2
m
= v1 + K v2 ; K = B
mA
According to conservation of energy we have
1 1 1
m v 2 = mA v12 + m v2
2 A 2 2 B 2
or v2 = v12 + K v22
v2 = v  Kv2   Kv22
2

(K + K2) v22 – 2vKvv2 = 0

(K + 1) v2 = 2v
2v
 v2 =
K 1
196 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

(a) v2 will be maximum when K is min.

or mA >> mB
(b) momentum of B = pB = mB v2
2 mB v 2 K mA v 2 mA v
= = =
1 K 1 K 1
1
K
1
For momentum to be maximum should be min or K should
K
be maximum, hence
mB >> mA
(c) Kinetic energy of B is given by
1
E2 = m v2
2 B 2
2
1 2v
= K · mA
2 K 1
4 K E1
E2 = 2
; E1 = kinetic energy of A
1 K 4K
Now E2 is maximum when 1 – K is minimum and equal to zero
Hence K = 1
or mA = mB
4.24. A steel ball of mass m falls from a height h on a floor. The ball bounces
for quite large number of times. Calculate the cumulative momentum
imparted to the floor if at each collision the velocity of the ball decreases
 times.
Solution: Velocity of the ball when it just strikes the floor = 2gh
Momentum before impact = m 2gh
m
Momentum after impact = 2gh
 Change of momentum of the ball after first impact
m
= m 2gh + 2gh
m m
Similarly change of momentum = 2gh + 2 2gh of the ball
after second impact.
The change of momentum of the ball at each impact is equal to
momentum transferred to the floor.
 Net cumulated momentum of the floor is equal to
m m m
P = m 2gh + 2gh + 2gh + 2 2gh + . . . . . .
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 197

 1 1  1 1 1 
= m 2gh  1    2  . . . . .    1    2  . . . . .  
   

1 1 1
= m 2gh ·
1 1
1 1

1
= m 2gh
1 1
1
= m 2gh 1
4.25. Two identical particles A and B of mass m, A moving with velocity
v = 10 m/s suffers a head-on collision with B. Prior to collision B was at
rest. The collision results in a decrease in kinetic energy of the system by
 = 2%. What will be the velocity of particle A after collision.
Solution: Let VAi and VAf represent the velocities of the partice A before
and after collision and VBf , the final velocity of particle B after collision.
According to the law of conservation of momentum we have
m VAi + 0 = m VAf + m VBf
 VAi = VAf + VBf
Change in kinetic energy as a result of collision
1 1 1
= m V Ai2 – mV Af2 mVBf2
2 2 2
1 1 1
mVAi2 mV Af2 mVBf2
2 2 2
Now we have =
1
mV Ai2
2
or V Ai2 – V Af2 VBf2 =  V Ai2
or V Ai2 (1 – ) = VAf2 + (VAi – VAf)2 (after setting VBf = VAi – VAf )
or V Ai2 (1 – ) = VAf2 + V Ai2 – 2 VAi VAf + VAf2
or 2 VAf2 – 2VAi VAf +  V Ai2 = 0
or 2 VAf2 – 2v VAf + v 2 = 0; VAi = v
2v  4v 2  8v 2 v  v 1  2
 VAf = =
4 2
Now VAf cannot be greater than v, therefore VAf will have the value
v
VAf = 1  1  2  and will be in the same direction as v.
2  
198 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

v v v
VAf = 1  1  2 1/2   (1 – 1 + ) =
2   2 2
On substituting the values of  and v, we have
2 1000
VAf = × = 10 cm/s
100 2
4.26. Particle 1 of mass m moving with velocity v collides with particle 2
of mass M. Prior to collision particle 2 is at rest. As a result of collision
particle 1 deviates through an angle 90° whereas particle 2 recoils at an
angle  = 22° with respect to initial direction of motion of particle 1.
Assuming a mass ratio M/m = 4, find out the percentage change in the
kinetic energy of the system.
Solution: v is the velocity with which particle 1 of mass m moves prior to
colliding with particle 2 of mass M. After collision let v1 and v2 be the
velocities of the two particles of mass m and M respectively (see Fig. 4.17).
In view of the law of conservation of momentum, we have
mv = M v2 cos  v1

and mv1 = M v2 sin 

v
 tan  = 1
v m M
Now the ratio of change of kinetic energy after
v 
collision and kinetic energy before collision is
given by
1 1 1 v2
mv12 Mv22 mv 2 Fig. 4.17
T 2 2 2
= (T stands for kinetic energy)
T 1
mv 2
2
2 2
v1 M v2
= + –1
v m v
2
M v2
v1 m
= tan2  + – 1 = tan2  + sec2  – 1
m v1
v M
m m
= 1 tan2  + –1
M M
On substituting the values of the various terms we have
T
= (1 + 0.25) × 0.16 + 0.25 – 1; tan 22° = 0.4
T
= 0.2 + 0.25 – 1 = – 0.55 = – 55%
4.27. A disc of radius r1 and mass m1 moving at a speed v undergoes an
elastic collision with a stationary disc of radius r2 and mass m2 (see
Fig. 4.18a). After collision the disc of radii r1 and r2 moves at angles 60°
and 30° respectively with respect to the initial direction of motion. Find
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 199
out the velocities of each of the discs after collision and the impact
parameter d.
Solution: Let v1 and v2 be the velocities of the two discs after impacts (see
Fig. 4.18b).
On resolving the momentum along x and y axes we have
m1v1 sin 60 + m2v2 cos 30 = m1v and m1v1 sin 60 = m2v2 sin 30
m1 sin 60 m
or v2 = v = 1 3 v1
m2 1 sin 30 m2

Fig. 4.18a Fig. 4.18b

On substituting the value of v2 in the above equation, we have
1 3 m mv 3
m v + m2 × 1 3 v1 = m1v or 1 1 + m v = m1v
2 1 1 2 m 2 2 2 1 1
v m 3
or  v1 = , v2 = 1 v
2 m2 2
d
Further sin 30 =
r1 r2
r r
Impact parameter d = 1 2
2
4.28. A wooden cylinder of mass M is
suspended horizontally with the help of
two identical threads of length l (see
Fig. 4.19). A bullet of mass m (m < M)  
moving parallel to the axis of the cylinder
l l
gets stuck to it. The two strings swing
through an angle . Calculate (i) the initial
velocity of the bullet, and (ii) the fraction
of kinetic energy of the bullet converted
Fig. 4.19
into heat.
Solution: (i) Let v' be the velocity of cylinder of mass M after collision and
v the initial velocity of the bullet. In view of the law of conservation of
momentum, we have
200 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

mv = Mv'
m
or v' = v
M
1 1 m2 2
Loss in kinetic energy = mv 2 – M · v
2 2 M2
1 m
= mv 2 1
2 M
1 1 m
Gain in potential energy = mv 2 – mv 2 1 = Mgl (1 – cos )
2 2 M
1 m 2v 2 
or = Mgl (1 – cos ) = 2Mgl sin2
2 M 2
2M 
v = gl sin
m 2
(ii) Fraction of energy which will turn into heat
loss in kinetic energy
=
initial kinetic energy of bullet
1 m
mv 2 1
2 M
=
1
mv 2
2
m
= 1
M
4.29. A small sphere of mass m resting at a height h slides down a
frictionless hill and reaches a long flat pieces of wood of mass M at the
base of the hill. Due to large fricton between the sphere and the wood,
the sphere slows down and the two masses move as a single unit. Calculate
the amount of work done by the force of friction in this process.
Solution: The velocity of the
sphere at the base of the hill
is given by
v= 2gh
Let v' be the velocity with
which the two masses are
moving. Then according to
the law of conservation of
momentum, we have
mv = (m + M )v' Fig. 4.20
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 201
1 1
Work done by the frictional forces = (M + m) v' 2 – mv2
2 2
2
1 mv 1
= (M + m) × – mv2
2 M m 2
2
1 m 1 mMv
= mv 2 1 =–
2 M m 2 M m
 m Mgh
= ; v = 2gh
M m
4.30. Three identical particles P, Q and R rest on a smooth horizontal
table. Particle P starts moving with a velocity v and undergoes an elastic
collision with particle Q and R simultaneously, as shown in Fig. 4.21. The
distance between the centres of Q and R before collision is x times as
much as the diameter of each particle. Obtain the velocity of particle P
after the collision. For what value of x will the particle P (i) recoil (ii) stop
and (iii) move on, after collision ?

Fig. 4.21

Solution: Let us assume that after collision P moves in the same direction
with velocity v1, and that Q and R move at an angle  with respect to the
initial direction with velocities v2 and v3.
On resolving the momentum along x and y axes, we have
mv = mv1 + mv2 cos  + mv3 cos ; m is the mass of each particle
and v2 sin  = v3 sin .
In the light of this the above equation is now transformed into the
following form v – v1 = 2 v2 cos .
Further,
1 1 1 1
mv 2 = m v12 + m v22 + m v32
2 2 2 2
or v 2 = v12 + 2 v22
2
2
v v1
or v – v = 2
2
1
2 cos
202 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

v  v1 
or v + v1 =
2 cos2 
or 2 v cos2  + 2v1 cos2  = v – v1
v 2cos2 1
or v1 = 2
1 2 cos
Using R as the diameter of each particle and on substituting cos  =
4R 2 x2R2
we have
e
2R
4R 2 x 2 R 2
v 1
2R 2 2 x2
v1 = – =–v
4R 2 x 2 R 2 6 x2
1
2 R2
P will recoil with smaller value of x (v1 will be negative). When x = 2,
it will stop (v1 = 0).
When x > 2 , it will move on (v1 will be positive).
4.31. The centres of the three spheres A, B and C lie on a horizontal line.
The spheres A and C of mass m1 and m3 respectively are initially at rest.
Sphere A strikes sphere B elastically with an initial velocity v1 (see Fig. 4.22).
As a result of this collision sphere B acquires a velocity v2 and hits the
sphere C elastically. For what value of mass of sphere B with sphere C gain
maximum velocity ?
Solution: Let m 2 be the mass of sphere B. In view of the law of
conservation of momentum, we have
m1v1 = m1vf + m2v2 (vf is the final velocity acquired by sphere A)
m
or v1 = vf + 2 v2 (v2 is the final velocity acquired by sphere B)
m1
From the law of
conservation of energy,
1 1 1
m1 v12 = m1 v 2f + m2 v22
2 2 2
2 m2 2
or v1 = v f +
2
v
m1 2
2 Fig. 4.22
m2 2 m2
2
or v1 – v = v1 v2
m1 2 m1
2
m2 2 2
m2 m22 2
or v –
1 v = v1 – 2v1 v2 + 2 v2
m1 2 m1 m1
m
or – v22 = – 2v1v2 + 2 v22
m1
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 203
2m1
or v2 = v
m1 m2 1
Similarly the velocity v3 acquired by the sphere
4m1m2v1
C=
m1 m2 m2 m3
Now v3 is function of mass m2. For v3 to be maximum find out the
d
value of (v ) and equate it to zero..
dm2 3
d m2 1
 (v ) = 4m1 v1 2
dm2 3 m1 m2 m2 m3 m1 m2 m2 m3
m2
2
m2 m3 m1 m2
4m1 v1 m1 m3 m22
= 2 2
m2 m2 m2 m3
This will be zero when m2 = m1m3
Hence m2 = m1m3
4.32. A molecule collides with another stationary molecule of the same
mass m. Show that the angle of divergence is 90° when the collision is
ideally elastic.
Solution: Let u1 be the initial velocity of the incident molecule. After
collision the two molecules are moving at angles  and  with velocities
v1 and v2 (see Fig. 4.23). On resolving the momentum along the x and
y axes, we have

Fig. 4.23
204 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

mu1 = mv1 cos  + mv2 cos  (i)

and mv1 sin  = mv2 sin  (ii)
1 1 1
Further m u12 = m v12 + m v22 (iii)
2 2 2
or u12 = v12 + v22
2
2
v1 sin
= v +
1
sin

2 2
sin 2 sin 2
or u = v
1 1
(iv)
sin 2
sin
Now u1 = v1 cos  + v1 cos 
sin
or u1 sin  = v1 sin ( + ) (v)
On substituting the value of u1 sin  as v1 sin ( + ), in equation (iv),
we have
sin2 ( + ) = sin2  + sin2 
or sin2  cos2  + cos2  sin2  + 2 sin  cos  sin  cos  = sin2  + sin2 
or 2 sin  cos  sin  cos  = sin2  (1 – cos2 ) + sin2  (1 – cos2 )
= 2 sin2  sin2 
cos cos
or =1
sin sin
or cot  = tan  = cot (90 – )
or  = 90 – 
or  +  = 90°
4.33. A small particle A of mass 20 g moving with a velocity u1 = (i + j)
collides with another particle B of mass 10 g and velocity u = ˆi  4ˆj  6 kˆ
2  
inelastically, and the two coalesce. Find the velocity of the formed
particle AB.
Solution: When two particles of mass m1 and m2 moving with velocities
u1 and u2 collide inelastically and form a new particle moving with velocity
u we have m1u1 + m2u2 = (m1 + m2) u
On substituting the value of m1, m2, u1 and u2, we have
   
2 ˆi  ˆj + 1 ˆi  4ˆj  6 kˆ = 3u
3 û = 3 î + 6 ĵ – 6 k̂
or u = î + 2 ĵ – 2 k̂
u = 1 4 4 = 3 m/s
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 205
4.34. A particle of mass m1 moving with velocity v collides elastically with
a stationary particles of mass m2 (m1 > m2). Through what maximum angle
the particle of mass m1 will deviate from its initial path ?
Solution: Let us assume that the two particles are moving at angles  and
 with velocities v1 and v2 respectively (Fig. 4.24).
According to conservation of momentum we have v1
m1v = m1v1 cos  + m2v2 cos 
and m1v1 sin  = m2 v2 sin 
or m1 [v – v1 cos ] = m2 v2 cos  v 

sin
= cos  · m1 v1
sin
cos  · sin 
or (v – v1 cos ) = v1 v2
sin  Fig. 4.24
or v sin  – v1 cos  · sin  = v1 cos  sin 
v sin 
or v1 =
sin     
According to conservation of energy we have
1 1 1
m v2 – m v2 = m v2
2 1 2 1 1 2 2 2
2 v 2 sin 2 m12 sin 2 v 2 sin2
or m1 v = m · 2 2 ·
sin2 2
m2 sin sin 2
m
or sin2 ( + ) – sin2  = 1 · sin2 
m2
m
or (sin  · cos  + cos  sin )2 – sin2  = 1 · sin2 
m2
or sin2  · cos 2  + cos2  sin2 
m1
+ 2 sin  cos  · sin  cos  – sin2  – · sin2  = 0
m2
or sin2  · cos2  + (1 – sin2 ) sin2 
m1
+ 2 sin  cos  · sin  cos  – sin2  – sin2  = 0
m2
m1
or sin2  · cos 2 – sin2  + sin  1 sin 2 · sin 2 = 0
m2
On differentiating the above equation w.r.t.  and equating it to zero
we have
– sin2  · sin 2 · 2 + sin  1 sin 2 · cos 2 · 2 = 0
1 sin2
tan 2 =
sin
206 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

On substituting the values of sin 2 and cos 2 we have

m
sin2  · sin  – 1 sin2  + sin  · 1 sin 2 · 1 sin 2 =0
m2
m
sin3  – 1 · sin2  + sin  – sin3  = 0
m2
m2
or sin  =
m1
4.35. In a closed system two particles of masses m1 and m2 moving with
velocities v1 and v2 collide inelastically. Find the increment in the kinetic
energy of the system.
Solution: According to conservation of momentum we have
m1 v1 + m2 v2 = (m1 + m2)V ; V is the final velocity of the mass (m1 + m2)
m v m2v2
V= 1 1
m1 m2
Increase in kinetic energy
1 1 1
= E = (m1 + m2) · V2 – m1 v12 – m2 v22
2 2 2
2
1 m1 v1 m2 v 2 1 1
= (m1 + m2) 2 – m1 v12 – m2 v22
2 m1 m2 2 2
m1 m2
=– · v12 v22 2v1v2
2 m2 m2
1 m1 m2
=– µ (v1 – v2)2 ; µ =
2 m1 m2
4.36. A particle of mass mA had a perfectly elastic collision with a particle
of mass mB. Prior to collision the particle of mass mB is at rest. Calculate
the fraction of energy lost by the particle of mass mA when (i) it recoils at
right angles to direction in which it was incident (ii) the collision is head
on.
Solution: Let v be the velocity of the particle of mass mA before collision
and v1 and v2 be the velocities of the two respective masses mA and mB
after collision.
In view of conservation of energy and momentum we have
1 1 1
mA v 2 = mA · v12 + m · v2
2 2 2 B 2
and mAv = mBv2 cos  (see Fig. 4.25a)
mA v1 = mB v2 sin 
2
m v 
mA v = mB · v2 · 1   A 1 
 mB v 2 
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 207

or m A2 v2 = mB2 v22 – m A2 v12

m2A
v2 v12 = v22
mB2
v1

mA v

mB 
mA mB
v
Before Collision
After Collision
v2 v1 mA mB v2

Fig. 4.25a Fig. 4.25b

Now,
m2A
mA v 2 = mA v12 + mB · v2 v12
mB2
mA 2
v 2 = v12 + v v12
mB
mB m A mA mB
v 2 = v12
mB mB
2
mB mA v 1
or = 2
mB mA v
1 1
mAv 2 mAv12
Fractional change in energy = 2 2
1
mAv 2
2
2
v
=1– 1
v
mB mA
=1–
mB mA
2 mA
=
mB mA
(ii) In view of figure 4.25b and according to conservation of
momentum, we have
mA v = mB v2 – mA v1
208 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

mA
or (v + v1) = v2
mB
According to conservation of energy we have
1 1 1
mAv2 = mA v12 + m v2
2 2 2 B 2
After substituting the value of v2, we have
m2A
mAv 2 = mA v12 + mB · 2 (v1 + v)2
mB
m
or v2 = v12 + A (v1 + v)2
mB
mA
or (v – v1) = (v + v)
mB 1
mB mA  m  mB 
or v = v1  A 
mB  mB 
v1 m mA
or = B
v mA mB
2
v1
Fractional change in energy = 1 –
v
2
mB mA
=1–
mA mB
4 m A mB
= 2
mA mB
4.37. A particle A of mass mA experiences a perfectly elastic collision with
m
another stationary particle B of mass mB. Find the ratio A when (i) the
mB
two particles moves in the opposite direction with equal velocity after a
head on collision (ii) the two particles move symmetrically with respect
to the initial direction of motion of A with a divergence angle .
Solution:
(i) According to conservation of momentum we have
mAv = (mB – mA) v1
According to conservation of energy we have
1 1 1
m v2 = m v 2 + mB v12
2 A 2 A 1 2
2
or mAv = (mA + mB) v1
2

mA mB mA2 v 2
= 2
mB mA
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 209
or (mB – mA)2 = mA (mA + mB)
or mB2 – 2mAmB + m A2 = m A2 + mAmB
mA 1
or =
mB 3
(ii) In view of conservation of momentum in the initial direction of
motion we have
mAv = (mAv1 + mBv2) cos (see Fig. 4.26)
2
According to conservation v1
of momentum in a
direction perpendicular to
the initial direction of mA mB
motion we have /2

mAv1 = mBv2 /2

hence mAv = 2mAv1 cos

2
v v2
or v1 =
Fig. 4.26
2 cos
2
mA · v
Now v2 =

2 mB cos
2
According to conservation of energy we have
1 1 1
m v 2 = mA v12 + mB v22
2 A 2 2
2
mA ·v m2A v 2
or mAv 2 = + mB ·
4 cos2 4mB2 cos2
2 2
1 mA
or 1 = 1
mB
4 cos2
2
m
or 4 cos2 –1= A
2 mB
m
or 2 cos  + 1 = A
mB
4.38. Two bodies A and B of masses m and 2m respectively are placed on
a smooth floor. They are connected by a spring. A third body C of mass m
moves with velocity v0 along the line joining A and B and collides elastically
with A. At a certain instant of time t0 after collision it is found that the
instantaneous velocities of A and B are same. Further at this instant the
210 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

compression of the spring is x0. Determine (a) the common velocity of A

and B at time to (b) the spring constant. (IIT 1984)
Solution: Consider the elastic collision between C and A as shown in
Fig. 4.27.
2m
m m

C A B

Fig. 4.27

According to conservation of momentum we have

mv0 = mvA + mvC ; vAand vC are the velocities of A and C after collision
or v0 = vA + vC
According to conser-vation of energy we have
1 1 1
m v02 = m v A2 + m vC2
2 2 2
or v02 = v A2 + vC2

 v A  vC 
2
or = v 2A  vC2
or vA · vC = 0
When vA = 0 that is the case in which there is no interaction between
the blocks A and C. Thus the only possibility is vC = 0.
 vA = v0
(a) Applying the principles of conservation of momentum between
masses A and B we have
mv0 = (m + 2m) V
v
or V = 0
3
(b) According to conservation of energy we have
1 1 1
m v02 = (m + 2m) V 2 + K x02
2 2 2
v2
m v02 – 3m 0 = K x02
9
2 mv02
K=
3 x02
4.39. A ball of mass m executing translational motion collides elastically
with a stationary ball of same mass. At the time of impact the line passing
through the centres of the two balls makes an angle  with the initial
direction of motion (see Fig. 4.28). Assuming the balls to be smooth, find
the fraction of the kinetic energy of the incident ball that turns into
potential at the instant of maximum deformation.
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 211

Fig. 4.28

Solution: Applying the principles of conservations of momentum along

x axis we have
mv cos  = mv1 + mv2; v is the velocity of the striking ball before collision
and v1 and v2 are the velocities of the two balls after collision.
For maximum deformation
v1 = v2
v cos
 = v1
2
1
Initial kinetic energy = mv 2
2
1
Final kinetic energy = 2 × m v12
2
mv 2 cos2 
=
4
mv 2 cos2 mv 2 1
Fraction of kinetic energy = = cos2 
4 2 2
4.40. A bullet of mass m moving with a horizontal velocity v strikes a
stationary block of mass M suspended by a string of length L. The bullet
gets embedded in the block. What is the maximum angle made by the
string after impact. (Roorkee 1988)
Solution: According to conservation of momentum we have
mv = (M + m) V ; v = velocity of bullet
V = velocity of block and bullet
M m
v= V
m
According to conservation of energy we have
1
(m + M) V 2 = (M + m) gh (see Fig. 4.29)
2
 V = 2gh
212 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

M m
v = 2gh
m
2
v2 m
or h =
2g M m
L h
In view of figure, cos  =
L
h
or cos  = 1 –
L
2
v2 m
cos  = 1 –
2 gL M m
2
v2 m Fig. 4.29
or  = cos–1 1
2 gL M m

4.41. A simple pendulum is suspended from a peg on a vertical wall. The

pendulum is pulled away from the wall to a horizontal position and
2
released. The ball hits the wall, the coefficient of restitution being .
5
What is the minimum number of collisions after which the amplitude of
oscillation becomes less than 60°? (IIT 1987)
Solution: When the pendulum is released it will strike the wall with a
velocity v given by
v = 2gL ; L = length of the pendulum
Speed of the pendulum after first collision is given by
v1 = ev = e 2gL
After second collision its velocity is equal to
v2 = e 2 2gL
Velocity after n oscillation will be L
P A
vn = e n 2gL

According to conservation of energy
1
m vn2 = mgh (see Fig. 4.30)
2
1
= m · e 2n · 2gL = mgh
2
h h
or e 2n = = 1 – cos  (see Fig.)
L
2n
B
2 Fig. 4.30
= 1 – cos 
5
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 213
n
4
= 1 – cos 
5
1
 should be less than 60° hence cos  >
2
n
4 1
or <
5 2
n
5
or >2
4
n [log 5 – log 4] > log 2
0.301
n>
0.097
or n > 3.1
The number of oscillations must be whole member hence n = 4.
4.42. A ball of mass m falls from a height h. Assuming the coefficient of
restitution as e find the distance travelled by it before it stops.
Solution: The velocity of the ball when it is going to strike the ground is
given by
v = 2gh
Velocity at the first rebound = ev
(ev )2
The height attained by it = = e 2h
2g
The distance travelled by the ball before second rebound = 2e 2h
Similarly the distance travelled by the before third round = 2e 4h
 Total distance travelled S = h + 2e 2h + 2e 4h + . . . . .
2e 2h (1  e 2 )
=h+ = h
1 e2 1  e2
4.43. A bullet of mass m is fired at an angle  = 60° with the horizontal
with a velocity v on a wooden rod of mas M and length L. The rod is hinged
at its top O (see Fig. 4.31a). Prior to collision the rod is at rest. The bullet
gets embedded into the rod in a short interval of time t. Calculate (i) the
angular velocity of the rod (ii) the reaction at the hinge.
Solution:
(i) Taking the moment about O we have
L L
mv · cos  · = I + MV · ; V = linear velocity of the rod along
2 2
x axis
214 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

R2
R1
 O

L/2
v

C C v
y axis

x axis

Fig. 4.31a Fig. 4.31b

Resolving the momentum along x and y axes (see Fig. 4.31b) we

have
mv cos  + R1 · t = MV ; R1 is reaction at the hinge along x axis
and – mv sin  + R2 · t = 0; R2 is reaction at the hinge along
y axis
L ML2 ML2 L
mv · cos  · = ; V= ·
2 12 4 2
L ML2
or mv cos  · = ·
2 3
3mv cos  3 mv
or  = =
2 ML 4 ML
(ii) R1 t = MV – mv cos 
L
=M· ·  – mv cos 
2
ML 3mv cos
= · – mv cos 
2 2 ML
mv cos 
= 
4
mv cos  mv
 R1 =  = 
4· t 8 t
mv sin mv · 3
R2 = =
t 2 t
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 215
4.44. A wooden rod of mass M and length l pivoted at O is capable of
rotating about it. A bullet of mass m (m << M) moving horizontally with
a velocity v0 strikes at the lower end of the rod and gets embedded into it
(see Fig. 4.32). As a result of this impact the rod moves through an angle .
Calculate (i) the velocity of the bullet (ii) the change in the momentum of
the system.
Solution:
(i) According to the conservation of angular momentum we have
1
mv0l = Ml 2 O
3
3mv0
or  =
Ml
According to conservation of energy we have
1 1 9m2v02 l l
· Ml 2 · = Mg (1 – cos )
2 3 M 2l 2 2
l
= Mg · 2 sin2
2 2
2
M 2 2gl
or v0 = 2 · sin2 m v0
m 3 2
M 2gl 
or v0 = · sin Fig. 4.32
m 3 2
l 3mv0
(ii) Linear velocity of the bullet rod system = v = · =
2 2M
3mv0
Final momentum of the bullet rod system = Mv =
2
3mv0 mv0
p = change in momentum = – mv0 =
2 2
mv0 M 2gl 
p = = · · sin
2 2 3 2
4.45. A rod of mass M and length l is hinged at O. The rod is initially at
rest. A sphere of mass m moving horizontally with a velocity v0 strikes at
the lower end A of the rod (see Fig. 4.33a). Taking the coefficient of
restitution as e determine (i) the angular velocity of the rod (ii) the velocity
of the sphere after the impact.
Solution: (i) According to conservation of angular momentum, we have
l l
mv0l = mv1l + M · Vc · + I ; Vc =  (see Fig. 4.33b)
2 2
Ml 2 Ml 2
mv0l = mv1l +
4 12
Ml
mv0 = mv1 + ·
3
216 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

V'A – v1 = e (v0 – VA) ; VA = velocity of the end A of the rod

before impact
= ev0 ; V'A = velocity of the end A of the rod after
impact
l – v1 = ev0; V'A = l O
 v1 = (l – ev0) O
Ml
Now mv0 = m (l – ev0) + ·
3
M l/2
mv0 (1 + e) = l m 
3 

mv0 (1 e) C C vC
or  =
M
l m
3
(ii) v1 = l – ev0
m v0 m v1
mv0 1 e
= – ev0 A
M
m
3 Fig. 4.33a Fig. 4.33b
eM
v0 m
3
=
M
m
3
4.46. A thin uniform bar lies on a frictionless horizontal surface and is
free to move in anyway on the surface. Its mass is 0.16 kg and length is
3 metres. Two particles each of mass 0.08 kg are moving on the same
surface and towards the bar in a direction perpendicular to the bar, one
with a velocity of 10 m/sec and other with 6 m/sec as shown in Fig. 4.34.
The first particle strikes the bar at a point A and the other at point B. Points
A and B are at a distance of 0.5 m from the centre of the bar. The particle
strike the bar at the same instant of time and stick to the bar on collision.
Calculate the loss of kinetic energy of the system in the above collision
process. (IIT 1989)
Solution: The centre of mass of the system coincides with the mid-point
of the rod. In the process of collision the forces developed will cause the
rod to execute translational as well as rotational motion. Therefore, the
linear momentum as well as the angular momentum both will be
conserved.
According to conservation of linear momentum we have
mu1 + mu2 = (M + 2m) V ; u1 and u2 are the velocities of the two particles
V = velocity of the centre of mass.
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 217
On putting the values of various terms we have
0.08 × 10 + 0.08 × 6 = (0.16 + 2 × 0.08) V
V = 4 m/sec
Moment of inertia of the system about O is given by
 Ml 2 
I=   2 m y 2  ; y = OA
A = OB
 12 
On substituting the values of various terms we have
2
0.16 3
I= 2 0.08 (0.5)2
12

= 0.08 kg m2
According to the conservation of angular
momentum we have
mu1 y – mu2 y = I
mu1 y mu2 y
=
I
On substituting the values we have
0.08 10 0.5 0.08 6 0.5
 =
0.08 Fig. 4.34
= 2 rad/sec
1 1 1 1
Loss in energy = m u12 + m u22 – (M + 2m) V 2 + I2
2 2 2 2
1 1
= × 0.08 × 10 2 + × 0.08 × 62
2 2
1 1
– (0.16 + 2 × 0.08) × 42 + (0.08 × 22)
2 2
= 2.72 Joule.
4.47. A block A of mass 2m is placed on another block B of mass 4m
which in turn is placed on a fixed table. The two blocks have the same
length 4d and they are placed as shown in Fig. 4.35. The coefficient of
friction (both static and kinetic) between the block B and the table is µ.
There is no friction between the two blocks. A small object of mass m
moving horizontally along a line passing through the centre of mass (see
figure) of the block B and perpendicular to its face with a speed v collides
elastically with the block B at a height d above the table.
(a) What is the minimum value of v (call it v0) required to make the block
A topple ?
(b) If v = 2v0, find the distance (from the point P in the Fig. 4.35) at which
the mass m falls on the table after collision (Ignore the role of friction
during the collision). (IIT 1991)
218 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution: When the object of mass m collides with the block B it moves
forward and as a result the block A moves backward. The friction between
the two block is zero therefore velocity of A is zero.
For toppling the block A, the minimum distance traversed by block B
must be 2d.
Force of friction between block B and the table = µ · 6mg
Work done in displacing B through a distance 2d is given by
W = µ · 6mg × 2d = 12µ mgd
On applying the law of conservation of momentum in the collision of
the object of mass m and block B of mass 4m, we have
mv = mv1 + 4mv2; v1 is the velocity of object of mass m after collision
v2 is the velocity of block B after collision.
v = v1 + 4v2
According to conservation of energy,
we have
1 1 1
mv2 = m v12 + · 4m v22
2 2 2
or v2 = v12 + 4 v22
3 2
on solving v1 = – v and v2 = v
5 5 Fig. 4.35
1
Kinetic energy of block B = × 4m · v22
2
2
2  8m 2
= 2m ×  · v0  = v
5  25 0
8m 2
Now v = 12 µ mgd
25 0
5
v0 = 6  gd
2
(b) When v = 2v0 (given)
3 6
v1 =  × 2v0 =  v0
5 5
Time taken by the mass m to fall through a distance d is equal to
1 2 2d
d= gt or t =
2 g
Distance from P at which it will fall is equal to
1
6v 2d 6 5  2d  2
x=  0 · =  ·  6  gd  
5 g 5 2  g 
= – 6d 3
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 219
4.48. A string with one end fixed on a rigid wall, passing over a fixed
frictionless pulley at a distance of 2 m from the wall, has a point mass
M = 2 kg attached to it at a distance of 1 m from the wall. A mass m = 0.5 kg
attached at the free end is held at rest so that the string is horizontal
between the wall and the pulley and vertical beyond the pulley. What is
the speed with which the mass M will hit the wall when the mass m is
released? (IIT 1985)
Solution: When the mass m is released then the block C of mass M moves
in an arc CC' with A as centre (Fig. 4.36b).

M = 2 kg
A
C
B

m = 0.5 kg
Fig. 4.36a Fig. 4.36b
As the mass M descends mass m moves upward through a distance h
given by
2 2
h = BC' – BC = AB AC – BC

= 5 1
Let P be the position of mass M at an instant t then
d
=
dt
d
Speed of mass M at point P = v = r = ;r=1m
dt
Now x = BP – BC = ( BQ)2 ( PQ )2 – BC
1

=  2  cos    sin2   2 – 1

2

1
= 5  4 cos 2 – 1
The velocity of mass m at this instant is given by
dx 1 4 sin d
v1 = = · ·
dt 2 5 4 cos dt
2 sin  · v
=
5  4 cos 
220 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Let V be the speed of mass M at C'

V = v ; here  = 90°
2
v1 = ·V
5
According to conservation of energy, we have
Loss in P.E. of mass M = gain in K.E. of M + gain in P.E. of m + gain in
K.E. of m
1 1
Mg = MV 2 + mg 5 1 + m v12
2 2
On putting the values of various terms we have
2
1 1 2
2 × 9.8 = × 2 · V + 0.5 × 9.8 5 1 +
2
× 0.5 × V
2 2 5
On solving V = 3.36 m/sec.
4.49. A neutron of kinetic energy 65 eV collides in elastically with a singly
ionised helium atom at rest. It is scattered at an angle of 90° with respect
to its original direction. (a) Find the allowed values of the energy of the
neutron and that of the atom after collision (b) If atom gets de-excited
subsequently be emitting radiation, find the frequencies of the emitted
radiation [Given mass of the atom = 4 × mass of neutron, ionisation
energy of H-atom = 13.6 eV] (IIT 1993)
Solution: According to conservation of momentum (see Fig. 4.37) we have
Along x axis mu = 4mv2 cos ; m = mass of neutron
Along y axis mv1 = 4mv2 sin ; u = velocity of neutron before collision
v1 = velocity of neutron after collision
v2 = velocity of helium ion after collision
Now u2 + v12 = 16 v22
1 1 1
or mu2 + m v12 = m · 16 v22
2 2 2
65 + E1 = 4E2 E1 = K.E. of neutron after collision
E2 = K.E. of helium ion after collision
1
Now 65 = E1 + E2 + x ; x = 13.6 × 22 1
n2
1
or 65 = E1 + E2 + 54.4 1
n2
54.4
or E1 + E2 = 10.6 + 2
n
On solving the values of E1 and E2
we have
43.52
E1 = 4.52 eV
n2 Fig. 4.37
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 221
10.88
E2 = 15.12 eV
n2
43.52
E1 is positive which is possible when > 4.52
n2
or n < 3.1
Now when n = 2, E1 = 6.36 eV and E2 = 17.84 eV
when n = 3 E1 = 0.32 eV and E2 = 16.33 eV
The frequency of radiation emitted as a result of transitions is given
by
19
13.6 4 1.6 10 1 1
=
6.63 10 34 n12 n22
When n2 = 3 and n1 = 1  = 11.67 × 1015 Hz
When n2 = 2 and n1 = 1  = 9.84 × 1015 Hz
When n2 = 3 and n1 = 2  = 1.83 × 1015 Hz
4.50. Find the moment of inertia of a solid sphere of mass M and radius R
about an axis passing through its diameter.
M
Solution: Mass per unit volume of the sphere =
4
R3
3
Consider a circular disc of thickness dx at a distance x from the centre
of the sphere (Fig. 4.38).
Volume of the disc =  (R2 – x2) · dx
Mass of the disc
3M
= ·  (R2 – x2) dx
4 R3
3M
= (R2 – x2) dx
4 R3
Moment of inertia of the disc
about AB
1 3M
= · (R2 – x2) dx · (R2 – x2)
2 4R 3
3M
= (R2 – x2)2 dx Fig. 4.38
8R 3
Moment of inertia of the solid sphere about the diameter AB is given by
R 3M
 R 2  x 2  dx
2
I = 2 0
8R 3
3M  R 4
R dx  2 R 2  x 2dx   x 4dx 
R R
= 3 0 
4R  0 0

3M 2 5 R5 3M  15R 5  10R 5  3R 5  2
= R5 R =   = MR2
4R 3 3 5 4R 3  15  5
222 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

4.51. Find out the moment of inertia of a spherical shell of mass M and
radius R about an axis passing through its diameter.
M
Solution: Mass per unit area of the shell =
4 R2
Consider a thin slice of thickness dx at a distance x from the centre O.
The slice under consideration is a ring of radius PE and width dx.
M
Mass of the ring = 2 · PE · EG · (see Fig. 4.39)
4 R2
M
= 2 · PE · Rd ·
4 R2
M
= · dx ; PE
E · d = dx
2R
Moment of inertia of the ring
M
about AB = · dx · (R2 – x2)
2R
Moment of inertia of the
spherical shell is given by
R M
I = 2 0 ·  R2  x 2  dx
2R
M  2 R
R  dx   x 2 dx 
R
=  
R  0 0
3
M R
= R3
R 3
2
= MR 2 Fig. 4.39
3
4.52. A uniform disc of radius R has a round cut of diameter R as shown
in the Fig. 4.40. The mass of the portion left is equal to m. Find the moment
of inertia of the disc about an axis passing through the centre of inertia
and perpendicular to the plane of the disc.
R2
Solution: Area of the portion left = r2 – 
4
3 R2
=
4
4m
Mass per unit area =
3 R2
4m R2
Mass of the portion left = ·
3 R2 4
m
=
3
4m
Total mass of the disc =
3
G is the centre of inertia. Fig. 4.40
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 223
4m m
Now, · OG = · O'G
3 3
R
4x = +x
2
R
or x =
6
Let I1 be the moment of inertia of the whole disc about G then
2
1 4m 4m R
I1 = · · R2 + ·
2 3 3 6
2
2 mR
= mR2 +
3 27
Let I2 be the moment of inertia of the disc to be taken out about G
then
2 2
1 m R m R R
I2 = · · + ·
2 3 2 3 2 6
2
mR 2
m 4R
= + ·
24 3 9
Moment of inertia of the portion left about G is equal to
2 mR2 mR 2 m 4R 2
I G = I1 – I2 = mR2 + – – ·
3 27 24 3 9
37
= mR2
72
4.53. Fig. 4.41 shows a circular disc of mass M and radius R having the
centre at O. From this disc a small circular portion of radius r is removed.
Find out the moment of inertia of the remaining portion about an axis
passing through O and perpendicular to the plane of the disc.
M
Solution: Mass per unit area of the disc =
R2
M
Mass of the area removed = · r 2
R2
Mr 2
=
R2
Moment of inertia of the removed
portion of mass about its centre O'
1 Mr 2
= · r2
2 R2
1 Mr 4
= Fig. 4.41
2 R2
Moment of inertia of the removed portion about O
1 Mr 4 Mr 2
= + · x2
2 R2 R2
224 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Moment of inertia of the portion of the disc left about an axis passing
through O is equal to
1 1 Mr 4 Mr 2 x 2
I= MR2 – –
2 2 R2 R2
M
=  R 4  r 4  2r 2 x 2 
2 R2 
4.54. Find out the moment of inertia of a solid cone of mass M and base
radius R about its vertical axis. A
x x
1
Solution: Volume of the cone = R2h
3  x
3M
Mass per unit volume of the cone = r h
R 2h
Consider a thin disc of radius r and thickness dx
dx lying at a distance x below the vertex A R
O
(Fig. 4.42).
Volume of the disc = x 2dx Fig. 4.42
3M
Mass of the disc = · r 2dx
R 2h
3M
= 2 r 2dx
Rh
Moment of inertia of the disc about OA is given by
1 3Mr 2 dx 2 3 M
· ·r = · tan4  · x 4 · dx; r = x tan 
2 R 2h 2 R2h
Moment of inertia of the cone about its vertical axis is given by
3 M h
I= tan4   x 4 dx
2 R2h 0

3M h4
= 2 tan 
4
2R 5
3 M R4 4
= h
10 R 2 h 4
3 MR2
=
10
4.55. Find the moment of inertia of an elliptical disc of mass M about its
minor axis. Take the length of semi-major and semi-minor axes as a and
b respectively.
Solution: Consider a strip of width dx parallel to minor axis and at a
distance x from it.
Area of the strip = 2y · dx (see Fig. 4.43)
Mass of the strip = 2ydx · ;  = mass per unit area
Moment of inertia of the strip = 2ydx  · x2
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 225
Moment of inertia of the whole elliptical disc about yy' is given by
a
Iy = 2  0
2 y dx  · x 2
a
= 4   0 y x · dx
2

The equation of ellipse is given by

x2 y2
+ =1
a2 b2
b
or y = a2 x2
a
4 b a
·  0 a  x · x dx
2 2 2
 Iy =
a
Let us substitute x = a sin , dx = a cos  · d Fig. 4.43
4 b 2
a 0
Iy = a cos  · a 2 sin2  · a cos  · d


 cos  · sin  
2
= 4 a3b 2
· d
0

= a3b  2
0
sin 2 2 · d

a 3b  2 
 

0   
d 2 cos 4  · d 
= 
2 
0

a 3b Ma 2
= = ;  a b = M
4 4
4.56. A point moves along on arc of a circle of radius r. Its velocity is no
longer constant but varies with the distance covered s via relation
v = a s where a is a positive constant. Calculate the angle  between the
vectors of the total acceleration and velocity in terms of the distance
covered.
Solution: v = a s
v = r = a s
On differentiation we have
rd 1  12
=a· s ·v
dt 2
a = tangential acceleration
rd a a a2
= = ·v= ·a s =
dt 2 s 2 s 2
2
a s
2 = 2 Fig. 4.44
r
a2 s
ar = radial acceleration = 2r =
r
ar a2s 2s
tan  = = ·2= (see Fig. 4.44)
a r ·a2 r
226 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

4.57. A solid body rotates about a given axis with an angular acceleration
which varies linearly with time via relation  = at where a is a positive
constant and equal to 3 × 10–2 rad/s3. Calculate the time from the
beginning during which the angle  between the vectors of the total
acceleration and velocity is equal to 60°.
d
Solution: =  = at
dt
d = at · dt
at 2
or  =
2 2
at 2
ar = radial acceleration = ·r
2
d
a = tangential acceleration = r · = at · r
dt
ar a 2 t 4 ·r
tan  = =
a 4· at ·r
at 3
=
4
1
4 3
 t =  tan  
3 
On substituting the values we have
1
 4· 3 3
t =  2 
 3  10 
1
=  400  3
= 7.37 sec.
4.58. A wheel with the initial angular velocity 0 rotates about a given
axis with an angular retardation  =  where  is constant and  is
angular velocity. Find the mean value of its angular velocity averaged
over the total period of rotation.
Solution:
 = –
d
or = –
dt
0 1 T

or 
0
2
d = –  dt
0
1
22
T = 0


COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 227
1
Now 2 = t is the most general equation
2

4 = 2 t2
d
4 = 2t 2
dt
2 T
d = t 2 dt
0
4 0
2
 = T3
12
2
T3 2
T2 2
4 0
Average angular velocity = = = =
T 12 T 12 12 2

0
=
3
4.59. A flywheel rotates about a given axis in a way in which the angle
described varies with the square of the time taken via relation  = at2
where a is a positive constant. In the state of rotation the linear velocity
at a point on the rim at an instant t is v. Calculate the total acceleration
at that point at that instant.
Solution:  = at2
d
 = = 2at
dt
d
= 2a
dt
dv d
Tangential acceleration aT = =r·
dt dt
v
= · 2a
v · 2a v
= =
2at t
v
Radial acceleration ar =  r =  ·
2 2

= v = v · 2at
v2
Total acceleration a = 4v 2 a 2t 2
aT2 ar2 =
t2
4.60. A body rotates about an axis according to the law  = at – bt 3 where
a and b are constants. Find (i) the mean value of angular velocity and
angular acceleration averaged over the total time during which the body
rotates. (ii) the angular acceleration at the instant when the body stops.
Solution: (i)  = at – bt 3
d
= a – 3bt 2
dt
228 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

a d
at t = 0,  = 0; at t = T = , = 0 i.e. the body stops
3b dt
a
Total time during which the body rotates = T =
3b
aT bT 3
Average angular velocity = =
T T
a 2a
= (a – bT 2) = a – b · =
3b 3
d
at t = 0, = 1 = a
dt
d
at t = a , = 2 = 0
3b dt
a 3b
 = 2 1
= = 3ab
T a
d2
(ii) = – 6bt
dt 2
a
= – 6b
3b
= – 2 3ab
4.61. The angular velocity of a solid body rotating about an axis varies
with the angle of rotation via relation  = 0 – a where 0 and a are
positive constants. Assuming the angle of rotation  = 0 at t = 0 find the
expression for the angle of rotation and angular velocity as a function of
time.
Solution:  = 0 – a 
d
or = dt
0 a
1
– log (0 – a ) = t + A'
a
or log (0 – a ) = – at + A
At t = 0,  = 0,  A = log 0
0 a
 log = – at
0
a
1– = e–at
0

or  = 0
1 e at

a
d
= 0 e–at
dt
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 229
4.62. The angular acceleration of a body rotating with an initial angular
acceleration  0 varies with the angle of rotation  via relation
 = 0 cos . Find the angular velocity of the body as a function of the
angle of rotation.
Solution:  = 0 cos 
d d d
 = = · = 0 cos 
dt d dt
 · d = 0 cos  · d
 =± 2 0 sin
4.63. A particle moves on the circumference of a circle of radius r with
an angular velocity . Its displacement from the initial position
measured along the arc is given by l = b sin t. Where b is a positive
constant. Find (i) the total acceleration of the particle at l = 0 and l = ± b
(ii) the minimum value of total acceleration Amin and the corresponding
displacement lmin.
Solution:
(i) l = b sin t
dl
= b cos t = v = r'
dt
d
Tangential acceleration aT = r · = – b2 sin t
dt
= – 2l
2
v b2 2
Radial acceleration ar = = cos2 t
r r
b2 2
At l = 0, aT = 0 and ar =
r
b2 2
a=
r
At l = ± b; t =
2
aT = b2 and ar = 0
 a = b2
b 2 4
(ii) Total acceleration A = b2 4 · sin 2 t  · cos4 t
r2
b 2 cos4 t
= b2  sin 2 t
r2
 b2 
 r 2 · 4cos t · sin t ·  2sin t · cos t · 
3

dA 1  
Now = b2 =0
dt 2 b2
cos t  sin t
4 2

r2
230 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

r2 r2
cos2 t = 2 , sin t = 1 –
2
2b 2b2
 r2  b 4 4 r 4
 Amin = b 2 4 ·  1  2  2 · 4
 2b  r 4b
r2 4 r2 4
= b2 4

2 4
r2 4
= b2 4

4
2
 r 
Amin = b 2 1 
 2b 
r2 r2
cos2 t = , sin2
t = 1 –
2b 2 2b 2
r2
sin t = ± 1
2b 2
r2
 lmin = ± b sin t = ± b 1
2b 2
4.64. A wheel of radius r rolls without slip along x axis with velocity v. A
point A is located on the rim of the wheel. The wheel starts from the origin
O'. Find (i) the acceleration of the point A (ii) the distance covered by
the point A between two successive intervals at which it touches the
surface.
Solution: (i) After a lapse of time t the centre O of the wheel will move
through a distance vt (see Fig. 4.45). Length of the arc CA is also equal to
vt
vt. Angle AOC = . The x and y coordinates of point A are given by
y
r
vt
x = vt – r sin
r
vt
y = r – r cos
r
The path of the point A is cycloid as shown in the Fig. 4.45.
dx rv vt
= v– cos y
dt r r
vt o v
= v 1 cos
r A vt/r
o
d2x v2 vt
vt C
x
2 = sin
dt r r Fig. 4.45
dy rv vt
Similarly = sin
dt r r
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 231

d2 y v2 vt
2
= · cos
dt r r
d2x d2 y
Resultant acceleration a =
dt 2 dt 2
v2
=
r
The acceleration of point A is constant in magnitude but it is always
directed toward the centre of the wheel.
2 2
dx dy
(ii) Result velocity V =
dt dt
2
vt vt
=v 1 cos sin2
r r
vt
= 2v · sin
2r
2 r 2 r
v v
vt
S =  Vdt
0
= 2v  0
sin
2r
dt
2 r

2r vt v
= – 2v · cos
v 2r 0
= 8r
4.65. A solid cylinder of radius r rolls without slipping on a horizontal
surface with a velocity v. Find the radius of curvature of the path
described by the point A and B marked on its surface.
Solution: The x and y coordinates of point A (see Fig. 4.46a) is given by
vt y axis
x = vt + r sin
r A
vt B A
y = r – r cos
r vt/r
dx vt O O
= x = v + v cos
dt r
x axis
d2x v 2
vt vt
= x = – · sin
dt 2 r r Fig. 4.46a
2 2
dy vt d x v vt
= y = v sin , 
2 = y = · cos
dt r dt r r
3

 x 2
 y 2  2
Radius of curvature  =
 xy  
  xy
232 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

On substituting the values we have

3
 vt 
2
vt  2
v 1  cos   sin 2 
3

 r  r 
= 2 2
 vt  v vt v vt vt
v  1  cos  · cos  sin · v sin
 r  r r r r r
3
 vt 2
r 1  2 cos  1
 r  y axis
=
vt 2 vt vt
cos  cos  sin2
r r r
3 vt/r
 vt  2 B
r  2  2 cos 
 r  B
=
vt x axis
1  cos Fig. 4.46b
r
vt
On putting =0
r
r 3
=
2
 42 = 4r
For point B the x and y coordinates (see Fig. 4.46b) are given by
vt
x = vt – r cos
r
vt
y = r – r sin
r
 vt  v2 vt
x = v  1  sin  , x = cos
 r  r r
vt v2 vt
y = – v cos , y = sin
r r r
3

 x 2
 y 2  2
=
 xy  
  xy
On putting the values we have
3
 vt vt vt  2
v 1  2 sin  sin 2
3
 cos2 
 r r r 
=
v3  vt vt vt 
 sin  sin 2  cos2 
r  r r r 
3
 vt  2
r 2  2 sin 
 r 
=
vt
1  sin
r
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 233
vt
On putting = 0 we have
e
r
 =2 2r
4.66. A particle of mass m moves in xy plane. The motion is defined by
the equation x = a cos t and y = b sin t. Find the angular momentum of
the particle with respect to the origin.
Solution: x = a cos t, x = – a sin t
y = b sin t, y = b cos t
Angular momentum J = m yx  
xy
On putting the values we have
J = m [b cos t · a cos t + a sin t b sin t]
= mab
4.67. A particle of mass m is projected into earth gravitational field with
an initial velocity v0 at an angle  with the horizontal (see Fig. 4.47). Find
the angular momentum about the origin when (i) the particle is at the
highest point of its parabolic path (ii) the particle is just going to hit the
ground.
Solution:
(i) The angular momentum is defined by
J = m  x y  yx 
At the highest point y = 0,
v02 sin 2
x = v0 cos , and y =
2g Fig. 4.47
v02 sin 2
J =–m· · v0 cos 
2g
mv03
=– sin2  cos 
2g
2v02
(ii) In the second case x = 0, y = – v0 sin , x = sin  cos 
g
2v02
J =–m· sin  cos  · v0 sin 
g
3
2mv0
=– sin2  cos 
g
4.68. At what height above the surface a ball of radius
r be struck by a horizontal impact inorder to have no
sliding at the point of contact O.
2
Solution: Angular momentum L = m v · x = mr2
5
(see Fig. 4.48) Fig. 4.48
234 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

2
mr · x = mr2; v = r
5
2
x = r
5
2 7
or h = x+r= r+r= r
5 5
4.69. A ball of mass m is located at the origin O of a frame of reference at
a height h above the earth surface. As the ball starts falling from the point
O without any initial velocity the frame of reference starts moving
horizontally with a constant velocity V. Calculate the increment in the
angular momentum of the ball during the time of its free fall.
Solution: Let O' be the position of O after a lapse of time dt (see Fig. 4.49).
Then OO' = Vdt. Let dy be the downward displacement of the ball after
time dt. Then angular momentum about O' is given by
dy O O
dJ = m · · V · dt
dt
= mV · dy h

Net angular momentum is given by

h
Earth Surface
J = dJ =  0 mVdy = mVh Fig. 4.49

4.70. A particle moves in a closed path under the action of a central field
of force. The potential energy of the particle is Kr 2 where K is constant
and r is the distance of the particle from the centre of the field. Find the
mass of the particle if the minimum distance of the particle from the
centre of the field is r1 and its velocity at the farthest point from the centre
of the field is v2.
Solution: U = Potential energy = Kr 2
dU
Force = – = – 2Krr
dr
m × acceleration = – 2K · r
2K
 Acceleration = – · displacement
m
2K
 =
m
According to conservation of angular momentum we have
mv1r1 = mv2r2 ; r1 and r2 are the distance from the centre of the field
where the velocities are v1 and v2 respectively.
Now v2 = r2 and v1 = r1
v
r12  = v2 · 2

v 22 2K 2K r12
or   = 2 =
2
or m =
r1 m v22
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 235
4.71. A solid sphere of mass m and radius
r starts rolling down an inclined plane at
an angle  with the horizontal. Find the
angular momentum of the sphere
relative to the point of contact at the
initial moment.
d
Solution: Torque = I = mgr sin  (see Fig. 4.50
dt
Fig. 4.50)
Id = mgr sin  · dt
or J = I = mgr sin  · t
4.72. A smooth bar AB of mass M and length l rotates with an angular
velocity 0 about a vertical axis passing through the end A. A sleeve of
mass m initially at A starts sliding along the length of the bar. Find the
linear velocity of the sleeve relative to the bar at the instant when it
reaches the other end B.
Solution: According to conservation of energy we have
2
1 1 1 Ml
· Ml 2 · 20 = ml 2 2
2 3 2 3
3m 2
2
0
= 1 
M
v
or  = = 0

l 3m
1
M
0 l
or v =
3m
1
M
4.73. A solid sphere of mass M and radius R is pivoted at its centre O. A
particle of mass m travelling with velocity v collides and adhere at the
edge of the sphere. Prior to the collision the sphere was at rest. Find (i) the
angular velocity of the system after collision (ii) the amount of energy
lost in the collision.
Solution: (i) According to conservation of angular momentum we have
2
mvR = MR 2 mR 2  (see Fig. 4.51)
5
mv
 =
2
M m R
5
1 1 2
(ii) Loss in energy = mv 2 – M m R2 · 2 Fig. 4.51
2 2 5
236 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

1 1 2 m 2v 2
= mv 2 – M m R2 ·
2 2 5 2
2

M m · R2
5

1 m2
= m v2
2 2
M m
5
Mmv 2
=
2M 5m

4.74. A thin bar BB' of mass m and length l is falling in the vertical plane
with velocity v0. During motion the end B is connected the pivot O as
shown in the Fig. 4.52. As a result of this the bar begin to rotate about B.
Find the angular velocity of rotation.
Solution: Just before the connection at B with pivot O the bar has only
translational motion as shown in Fig. 4.52. Its angular momentum with
l
respect to B = m v0 ·
2
After being connected at B the new angular momentum is given by
l2
m ·
3
According to conservation of vo
angular momentum we have B B
2
l ml
mv0 · = ·
2 3
3v0 O
= Fig. 4.52
2l
4.75. One end of a thin rigid massless wire of length l is fixed to a wooden
block of mass M as shown in the Fig. 4.53. A particle of mass m moving at
right angles to the wire with a velocity v0 strikes the block and adheres
with it. Find (i) the angular momentum of the system (ii) the fraction of
the particles energy lost in the collision.
Solution: (i) According to the conservation of momentum we have
mv0 = (M + m) v
mv0 M
v= l
M m
Angular momentum
mv0 m
J = (M + m) · l = mv0l
M m Fig. 4.53
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 237
(ii) Fraction of energy lost in the collision is given by
1 1 m2v02
mv02 ( M m) 2
2 2 M m M
F= =
1 M m
mv02
2
4.76. One end of a long string of length L and negligible
radius is fixed at the top of a pole of radius r. The other
end of the string carries a small ball of mass m as 
shown in the Fig. 4.54. On imparting the ball an initial
velocity v0 in the horizontal plane the string starts L
winding itself around the pole and as a consequence
the ball moves in a spiral of decreasing radius.
Calculate the angular velocity of the ball after it has
completed ten complete revolution around the pole.
Solution: According to conservation of energy we have Fig. 4.54
1 1
m · L2 sin2  · 20 = m (L – 20r)2 sin2  2 ; 0 = initial angular
2 2
velocity
or L0 = v0 = (L – 20r)
v0
or  =
L 20 r
4.77. A rod of length L and mass M lies on a smooth horizontal surface,
where it can freely move in any manner. A ball of mass m moving with a
velocity v0 collides the rod at a point lying at a depth d below the centre of
the rod (see Fig. 4.55) elastically. What should be the mass of the ball so
that it remains at rest immediately after collision?
Solution: According to conservation of momentum we have
mv0 = m × 0 + MV
According to conservation of angular momentum we have
mv0d = I; I is the moment of inertia of the
rod about an axis passing through its centre.
According to conservation of energy we have
1 1 1
m v02 = MV 2 + I2
2 2 2
2
1 1 1 mv0 d d L
Now m v02 = MV2 + I
2 2 2 I v0
12m 2v02 d 2 m
or m v02 = MV 2 +
ML2
2
mv0 12m2v02 d 2
or m v02 = M · + Fig. 4.55
M ML2
238 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

1 12 d 2
or 1=m
M ML2
ML2
or m = 2
L 12d 2
4.78. An arrow PQ of length l = 75 cm moving with a velocity of v = 15 m/sec
strikes a smooth and a hard wall at an angle  = 30° with the vertical as
shown in Fig. 4.56. The end Q of the arrow slides downward along the
wall without friction. Find the angular velocity of the arrow.
l
Solution: Angular momentum about Q = mv cos 60 × cos 30;
2
m = mass of arrow.
Here the point O will move with new velocity v'.
The angular momentum of the arrow about Q after impact is given by
l ml 2
mv' · cos 30 + '
2 12
 l  ml 
2 2 l P
= m  · cos 30    ' ; v' = 2 cos 30 '
  2  12 
According to conservation of angular
momentum we have
O
l l2 l2
mv cos 60 × cos 30 = m cos2 30 
2 4 12
v 
l l Q
v cos 60 × cos 30 =  · cos 30   
2

2 6
On substituting the values we have
1 3 3 1
15 × · = 0.75    
2 2 8 6 Fig. 4.56
15 3 0.75 13
=
4 24
15 3 6
 ' = = 15.98 = 16 rad/sec
0.75 13
4.79. A bar PQ of length 2l and mass 2m is bent at 90° at its middle point
O as shown in the Fig. 4.57. The bar is hanged from a hinge at the point O
and is capable of rotating in a vertical plane. Initially the bar is at rest and
the arm PO is horizontal. If the bar is released find the maximum angular
velocity acquired by it.
Solution: According to conservation of energy we have
Loss in potential energy of PO = gain in kinetic energy of PO + gain
in kinetic energy of OQ + gain in
potential energy of OQ.
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 239
l 1 l 2 1 l2 l
mg · sin  = m m 2 + mg (1 – cos )
2 2 3 2 3 2
2l 2
or g sin  =  + g (1 – cos )
3
On differentiating it with respect to  and equating it to zero we have
4l d
g cos  = · + g sin  O
3 d P

3 d
or g (cos  – sin ) · = =0 P 
4l d
This is possible with the value of  = 45°
On putting the value of  as 45° we have
2l 1 1 Q
· 2 = g 1 Q
3 2 2
Fig. 4.57
3g
 = 2 1
2l
On putting the value of 2 as 1.414 we have
e
0.414 3g
= = 0.621g /l
2l
4.80. A uniform rod of length 2a stands vertically on a smooth horizontal
plane as shown in Fig. 4.58. If it is just displaced from the vertical and
released from rest it starts rotating. Find the angular velocity of the rod as
a function of angle .
Solution: Rotational kinetic energy about the centre of the rod
1 (2a )2
= m· · 2
2 12
Kinetic energy corresponding to the vertical
component of velocity v is given by
1 1
mv 2 sin2  = m2 a2 sin2 
2 2
Total gain in kinetic energy
ma 2 2 m 2 a 2 sin 2
= + 2a
6 2
Loss in potential energy = mga (1 – cos )
v
According to conservation of energy we have
m 2a2
mga (1 – cos ) = (1 + 3 sin2 ) 
6
6 g (1 cos )
or  =
a (1 3 sin 2 ) Fig. 4.58
240 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

4.81. A thin uniform bar PQ of mass m and length l is falling vertically at

an angle  with the horizontal without rotation. At the moment when
the end P of the bar PQ strikes the surface as shown in the Fig. 4.59, the
centre of gravity of the bar has velocity v0. In the absence of rebound find
the angular velocity of the bar immediately after the impact.
Solution: Before impact the angular momentum of the bar about P is
equal to
l
m · v0 · cos 
2
After impact the point O will move with a different velocity v'0. The
point P will move horizontally and as a result of that the bar will have an
angular velocity . Angular momentum of the bar about P after impact is
given by
l ml 2
mv'0 cos  + ·
2 12
According to conservation of angular momentum we have
l l ml 2
mv0 cos  = mv'0 cos  + ·
2 2 12
6
or  = v0 v0 cos 
l Q
Point C will be the centre of rotation after impact
l
v'0 =  cos  l/2
2
On putting the value of v'0 we have C
O

6 l
= v0 cos cos 
l 2 v0
6
or  (1 + 3 cos ) = v0 cos 
2
l P 
6 v0 cos 
or  =
l 1  3 cos2 
Fig. 4.59

4.82. The two ends of a string of length l is attached to a fixed point O and
one end P of a horizontal bar of mass m and length 2l as shown in the
Fig. 4.60. The bar is released from the rest. It starts rotating around a
vertical axis through O. At what depth h below O a peg R be inserted in
order that on striking it the bar comes exactly at rest.
m (2l )2 ml 2
Solution: Moment of inertia of the bar about C = =
12 3
ml 2
Moment of inertia of the bar about O = + m · (2l)2
3
13ml 2
=
3
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 241
According to conservation of angular
momentum we have
13ml 2
m.v. 2l = ×
3
13ml 2 v
m.v. 2l = ·
3 h
13ml 2
h =
6ml
13l
= Fig. 4.60
6
4.83. The ends P and Q of the bar PQ of length 2l are constrained to move
along y and x axis respectively. Find the path described by the two points
A and B marked on the length of the bar.
Solution: The centre A of the bar is at a distance l from the origin O hence
x = y = l cos 45 (see Fig. 4.61) y axis

 x 2 + y 2 = l 2 is the equation of path

of the point A. This is a circle of radius l. P
The coordinates of point B are l
l a
x = l cos 45 + a cos 45 = A
2
l a l a Bl
and y = l sin 45 – a sin 45 =
2
x2 y2 x axis
 + 2 = 1
O Q
l  a 
2
l a Fig. 4.61
The path of the point B is an ellipse with semi-major axis as (l + a)
and semi minor axis (l – a).
4.84. A rod PQ of length l is fixed at the Crank pin P which moves in a
vertical circle of radius l in xy plane as shown in Fig. 4.62. Find the path
described by the point A marked on the length of the bar at a distance a
from the point P.
Solution: In view of the figure OP = PQ = l
= 45°
x coordinates of the point A is
equal to
x = l cos 45 + a cos 45 = (l + a) cos 45
y coordinates of the point A is
equal to
y = l sin 45 – a sin 45 = (l – a) sin 45 Fig. 4.62
242 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

The path of the point A is given by

2 2
x y
+ =1
l a l a
Which is an ellipse of the semi-major axis (l + a) and semi-minor axis
(l – a).
4.85. Three slender bars PQ, QR and RS each of mass m and length l are
freely joined at point Q and R. All the three bars are placed on a horizontal
surface in the form of a straight line PS (see Fig. 4.63a). All the bars begin
to move with a uniform velocity V on the horizontal surface by
maintaining the line PS. During the course of motion the middle point
of middle rod QR is suddenly fixed. Find (i) the angular velocity with
which the two bars PQ and RS will move (ii) the time elapsed before the
ends P and S of the two rods meets together.
Solution: P Q R S
(i) Angular momentum of RS
about R is equal to v
2
l ml Fig. 4.63a
mV · = · 1
2 3
3V
1 = (see Fig. 4.63b)
2l
Similarly the angular
momentum of PQ about Q is
l ml 2
equal to mV · = · 2
2 3
3V Fig. 4.63b
2 =
2l
3V
1 = 2 =  =
2l
Thus the two bar PQ and RS will move with an angular velocity
3V
=
2l
2
(ii) The two bars will describe an angle in order to meet at O.
3
2
4 l
 time taken t = = 3 =
3V 9V
2l
4.86. Two bars PQ and QR each of mass m and length l are joined at Q
with a hinge such that they can freely rotate with respect to the hinge.
The two bars are placed on a horizontal frictionless table. An impulse F0 is
l
applied at a distance from centre of mass C1 (see Fig. 4.64a). Find (i) the
4
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 243
velocity of centre of mass of the l l
Q
two bars (ii) the angular velocity P
1 C 2 C R
of the two bars about the hinge l/4 Hinge
(iii) the impulsive force F at the F0
hinged end. Fig. 4.64a
Solution: Change in momentum = Impulse
For the bar PQ, mv1 = F0 – F; v1 = velocity of centre of mass C1
For the bar QR; mv2 = F ; v2 = velocity of centre of mass C2
ml 2 l l
For bar PQ · 1 = F0 · –F· (see Fig. 4.64b & 4.64c)
12 4 2
ml 2 l
For bar QR · 2 = F ·
12 2
For the two bars velocity at the hinge will have the same value hence
l l
v1 + 1 = v2 + 2 ·
2 2
F F 3 F0 2 F F 3F
or 0 + = +
m 2 m m m Fig. 4.64b
5 F0
F= F v2
16 2
5 F0 Q C2 R
mv1 = F0 –
16 Fig. 4.64c
11 F0 5 F0
v1 = ,v =
16 m 2 16 m
9 F0 15 F0
1 = , 2 =
8ml 8ml
4.87. The rod OB of length l and mass m hinged at O to another small rod
OA such that it can rotate freely about O (see Fig. 4.65). The rod OB is
rotated at an angular velocity . Calculate the angle  described by the
rod.
Solution: Consider an element of length dx situated at a distance x
from O. A

m
Force acting on the element = · dx 2 · x sin  O
l
Taking the moment about O
x 
l l m
mg · sin  =  dx · 2 · x sin  · x cos  C
2 0 l
m/l dx  x sin 
2
2
l l
or g = 2 cos   0 x dx mg
2

2
B
l3
= 2 cos 
3 Fig. 4.65
244 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

3g
cos  =
2 2l
3g
or  = cos–1
2 2l
4.88. A uniform bar PQ of length l = 8 m is held vertical on the ground by
an auxiliary support. When the end P is released from rest the bar begin
to rotate about Q. In the state of rotation a point C marked at a distance of
b = 0.8 m above the centre of gravity G strikes the step as shown in the
Fig. 4.66a. After the impact of bar rotates about C. Calculate the height of
the step above the ground if the bar after the impact comes to rest for a
moment in the horizontal position.
Solution: In view of conservation of energy
we have
l 1 ml 2 2
mg (1 – cos ) = · 1 ; m mass
2 2 3
of the bar
3g
1 = 1  cos 
l
In moving to the horizontal position
after impact we have gain in potential energy
= loss in kinetic energy Fig. 4.66a
1
or mgb cos  = IC 2 ; IC = moment of inertia of the bar about C.
2
2
1 ml 2
= mb 2 22
2 12
24 g b cos
2 =
l 2 12 b 2
According to conservation of angular momentum we have
I1 – mv1 b = I2 + mv2b ; I = moment of inertia of the bar about C.G.
l
Further v1 = 1 · and v2 = 2 · b (see Fig. 4.66b)
2
On substituting these values we have
ml 2 l ml 2
· 1 – m1 ·b= · 2 + m2 b2
12 2 12
l 2 lb l2
or 1 = b2 2
12 2 12
l2 lb 3g l2 24 gb cos
or (1 cos ) = b2
12 2 l 12 l 2 12b 2
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 245
On substituting the values we have
25.6 71.68 188.16 cos
3.675(1 cos ) =
12 12 71.68
25.62 × 3.675 (1 – cos ) = 71.68 × 188.16 cos 
1 cos 1 P
or = –1
cos cos
Q C 
71.68 188.16
= = 5.6
25.62 3.675 v2
1
= 6.6 G
cos
1 2
cos  =
6.6
l
h = height of the step = b cos 
2 Q
4.8 Fig. 4.66b
= m
6.6
= 0.727 m
4.89. Two small spheres each of mass m/2 attached at the ends of a thin
rod of length l forms a rigid dumbbell as shown in the Fig. 4.67. A ball
of mass m moving with velocity v0 suffers a head on elastic collision with
one of the spheres of the stationary dumbbell. Find the proper angular
momentum of the dumbbell after collision.
Solution: According to conservation of angular momentum we have
m
mv0 = mv1 + v (1);
2 2
v1 = velocity of sphere of mass m after collision
v2 = velocity of sphere of mass m/2 after collision
For perfectly elastic collision m m/2
v 2 v1 v0
=1
v0
or v2 – v1 = v0 (2) l
m
mv0 = m (v2 – v0) + v
2 2
3
2v0 = v2 m/2
2 Fig. 4.67
4v0
 v2 =
3
Velocity of centre of mass of the dumbbell is equal to
m 4v0 m 4v0
·  ·
vcm = 2 3 2 3 = 2v0
m m 3

2 2
246 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

L = proper angular momentum = angular momentum in the frame of

centre of inertia = r1 · p 1 + r2 · p 2
l m 2v0 l m 2v0
= · · + · ·
2 2 3 2 2 3
mv0 l
=
3
4.90. A small object of mass m attached to one end of a non-stretchable
thread moves on a smooth horizontal plane. The other end of the thread
passing through the hole O is being drawn at a constant velocity (see
Fig. 4.68). Assuming the angular velocity of the thread equal to 0 when
the distance r between the body and the hole is equal to r0 find the tension
in the thread as a function of r.
dr
Solution: = v ; v = velocity
dt
or r = vt
Moment of inertia at a distance r0
is given by
I0 = m r02
Initial angular momentum
= m r02 0 Fig. 4.68
Angular momentum after time t = m (r0 – vt)2
According to conservation law we have
m r02 0 = m(r0 – vt)2 
r2
 = 0 2 0 ; r = r0 – vt
r
m · r04 02
T = m2r =
r3
4.91. A homogenous rod AB of length L = 1.8 m and mass M is pivoted of
the centre O in such a way that it can rotate in the vertical plane. The
rod is initially in the horizontal position. An insect S of the same mass
falls vertically with speed V on the point C, midway between O and B.
Immediately after falling, the insect moves towards the end B such that
the rod rotates with constant angular velocity  (a) Determine the
angular velocity  in terms of V and L (b) If the insect reaches the end B
when the rod has turned through 90°, determine V. (IIT 1992)
Solution: (a) Applying the conservation of angular momentum of insect
+ rod about O we have
L 1 ML2 
=  ML 
2
MV ·   (see Fig. 4.69a)
4 2 12 
12 V
or  = ·
7 L
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 247
(b) When the insect moves the moment of inertia of the system
changes (see Fig. 4.69b).
L
Instantaneous torque about O = Mg x cos ;  is the angle
4
of rotation during time t.
2
L ML2
Instantaneous moment of inertia about O = M x +
4 12
d
Torque T = (I)
dt
d    L ML2 
2
L 
or Mg x cos  =  M  x    
4 dt    4  12 
L L dx
or Mg x cos  =  · 2M x S
4 4 dt M
dx dx d dx
or g cos  = 2 = 2 · = 22 V
dt d dt d
 L
2 4 O C
or g  cos  · d  = 22  dx A
L
B
0 0
Fig. 4.69a
L
or g = 2 2

2
4 A N
L O
or g =
2
2 
12V L
or g = × x
7L 2 B
Mg
7 Mg
or V = 2gl Fig. 4.69b
12
4.92. A ball, initially at rest is given an impulse by a cue which is held
horizontally at a height h above the centre of the ball as shown in Fig. 4.70.
The balls moves with a velocity v0. Assuming the radius of the ball equal
9v0
to r find the value of h if the ball acquires a final speed of .
7
Solution: According to conservation of angular momentum we have
2
mv0h = mr2 · 0 ; m = mass of the ball
5
0 = angular velocity at the initial state.
Further force = m · a = – µmg; a = acceleration
µ = Coefficient of friction
dv
or = – µg
dt
or dv = – µg dt
248 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

or v = – µgt + c
at t = 0, v = v0
h
 c = v0 r

or v = v0 – µgt
We know that
I = µ mgr
d mgr
or = Fig. 4.70
dt I
mgr
or  d = · dt
I
mgr
or  = t + c
I
at t = 0,  = 0 hence c = 0
m g rt
or  = 0 +
I
v I 0   g t ·mr
or =
r I
or vI = I0r + mr2 (v0 – v)
2
or v (I + mr 2) = mr 2 0 · r + mr 2v0
5
7 2 0 r  5v0
or v =
5 5
2 0 r 5v0 9v0
or v = = (given)
7 7
 4v0 = 20 r
2v0
or 0 =
r
2 2v0
or mv0h = mr2 ·
5 r
4r
or h =
5
4.93. A solid sphere rolls without slipping on a table. What percentages of
its total energy will in the form of translational kinetic energy and
rotational kinetic energy?
Solution: The moment of inertia of a solid sphere of mass m and radius
r about an axis passing through its diameter is given by
2
I = mr2
5
Total energy of the sphere = translational kinetic energy + rotational
1 1
kinetic energy = mv 2 + I2
2 2
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 249
1 1 2
= mv 2 + × mr 22
2 2 5
1 1 7
= mv 2 + mv 2 = mv 2
2 5 10
100 (1/2) mv 2
Now % translational energy = 71.4%
(7/10) mv 2
100 (1/5) mv 2
and % rotational energy = = 28.6%
(7/10) mv 2
4.94. A rolling solid sphere of mass 0.5 kg strikes a wall with a velocity of
10 m/s and rolls back with a velocity of 8 m/s. Calculate the amount of
heat generated during the impact.
Solution: Total kinetic energy of the solid sphere of mass m moving with
1 1 7
a velocity v = mv 2 + mv 2 = mv2 (see Q. 4.93)
2 5 10
7
Total kinetic energy of the solid sphere before impact = m v12
10
7
Total kinetic energy of the solid sphere after impact = m v22
10
7
Amount of heat generated during impact = × m v12 v22
10
On substituting the values of m, v1 and v2, we have
7
Amount of heat generated = × 0.5 × (102 – 82)
10
= 0.7 × 0.5 × 18 × 2 = 12.6 J
4.95. A mass of 4 kg is fixed at the midpoint of a 2.5 m long string whose
ends are connected to a rod of length 2 m (see Fig. 4.71a). The system
rotates about the length of the rod at a rate of 42 revolutions per minute.
Find the tension in the two portions of the string.
Solution: Considering Fig. 4.71b, we have

T1 cos  = mg + T2 cos ; T1 and T2 are the tensions
1.2

in the two portions of the

5m

string.
or (T1 – T2) cos  = mg
2m 4kg
1
or (T1 – T2) × = 4g
1.25
In view of Fig. 4.71a, cos  = 1/1.25
5m

or T1 – T2 = 5g = 5 × 9.8 = 49 N
1.2

Further (T1 + T2) sin  = m2r; r is the radius of the

circular path in
which the mass is Fig. 4.71a
moving.
250 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

0.75 T1 cos 
(T1 + T2) × = 4 × 2 × 0.75
1.25 T1
T1 T2
or = 2
5
Now  = 2n 
(T1 + T2) sin 
n=
2
42 
or =
60 2
42 2 22
 = × = 4.4 rad/s
60 7 T2
T T2 mg + T2 cos 
2 = 19.36 = 1
5
Fig. 4.71b
 T1 + T2 = 96.80 N
T1 – T2 = 49.0 N
On solving the two we have T1 = 72.9 N and T2 = 23.9 N
4.96. ABC is an inverted L shaped rod in which the length of the portion
BC = 10.3 cm. A sphere of mass 500 g is suspended from the point C with
the help of a string of length 100 cm (see Fig. 4.72a). At what frequency
should the system rotate about AB for the string to make an angle of 60°
with the vertical? What will be the tension in the string?
Solution: With reference to Fig. 4.72b, we have B C
T cos 60 = mg 10.3 cm
T
or = mg 100 cm
2
or T = 2mg = 2 × 0.5 × 9.8 = 9.8 N
Further T sin 60 = mr2
m
3
or 2mg × = mr2
2
A
or g 3 = r2; r = BC + l sin 60;
l is the length of string Fig. 4.72a

3
= 10.3 + 100 · = 96.8 cm
2
9.8 1.73
 =
96.8 10 2

Now n = × 60
2
(here n in represented in rev/min)
30 9.8 1.73 102 Fig. 4.72b
= = 40 rev/min
96.8
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 251
4.97. A solid sphere of radius r = 5 cm is rolling on a rough horizontal
plane. Its centre O moves with constant acceleration a = 5 cm/s2. After a
lapse of time t = 2s, its position is represented by Fig. 4.73a. Find out the
velocities and accelerations at point P, Q and R.

a b c d
translational motion rotational motion combination of the two
Fig. 4.73
Solution: From Fig. 4.73d the velocity of point
P = 2at = 2 × 5 × 2 = 20 cm/s
Velocity at point Q = 2 at = 1.41 × 5 × 2 = 14.1 cm/s
Velocity at the point R = 0
2
a 2t 2
Acceleration at point P = (2a )2
r
2
at 2
= 2a 1
2r
2
20
=2×5 1 = 10 5 = 22.37 cm/s2
10
2 2
a 2t 2 at 2
Acceleration at point Q = a2 a =a 1 1
r r
2
20
=5 1 1 = 5 10 = 15.81 cm/s2
5
a 2t 2 25 4
Acceleration at point R = = = 20 cm/s2
r 5
4.98. Two blocks of mass M1 and M2 are linked by a thread passing over a
disc of mass M and radius R pivoted at O (see Fig. 4.74). The thread is
slipping. Find the regular acceleration of the disc and the ratio of the two
tensions.
Solution: Let us assume that the block of mass M1 is going down. The
equation of motion of the two blocks is given by
M1g – T1 = M1a
252 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

and T2 – M2g = M2a

where a is the common acceleration.
Due to the difference in tension, the disc will
rotate. Now (T1 – T2) R = I where I is the moment
of inertia of the disc about an axis passing
through O, I = (1/2) MR2
a
 = angular acceleration =
R
Now (T1 – T2)R = [(M1 – M2)g – (M1 + M2) a]
1 a
R= MR2 ×
2 R
M
or (M1 – M2)g = M1 M 2 a
2
M
or a = (M1 – M2)g / M1 M 2 Fig. 4.74
2
M
or  = (M1 – M2)g / R M1 M 2
2
M1  M1  M 2  g
Now T1 = M1g –
M1  M 2  M /2
M g  M1 M 2 g  M1 ( M /2)g  M12 g  M1 M 2 g
2
1
=
M1  M 2  M /2
= 2 M1 M2  M1(M /2) g M1  M2  M /2
M 2  M1  M 2  g
Similarly T2 = M2g +
M1  M 2  M /2
M1 M 2 g  M 22 g  M 2 ( M /2)g  M1 M 2 g  M 22 g
=
M1  M 2  M /2
 2 M1 M 2  M 2 (M /2) g
=
M1  M 2 M /2
T1 M1 4 M2 M
 =
T2 M2 4 M1 M
4.99. A solid sphere and a solid cylinder having the same mass m and
radius r roll down an incline plane. Initially they were at rest. (i) Which of
the two bodies will reach the bottom first ? (ii) Which body will have the
greater translational kinetic energy at the bottom.
Solution: (i) In view of Fig. 4.75 the equation of motion along the plane is
given by: mg sin  – fs = ma; fs = force of friction
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 253
Now fs r = I where I is the
moment of inertia and
 = angular acceleration = a/r
Further a = r
Ia
thus fs = 2
r
2
For sphere I = mr2
5
2
 fs for sphere = ma
5 Fig. 4.75
1
Moment of inertia of a cylinder = mr2
2
1
 fs for cylinder = ma
2
The acceleration for the sphere can be obtained by the relation
2 5
mg sin  – ma = ma or a = g sin 
5 7
Similarly we can determine the acceleration of cylinder as
2
a = g sin 
3
The acceleration of the sphere is more than that of the cylinder.
Therefore, sphere will reach the bottom first.
(ii) In view of the law of conservation of energy
1 1
mgh = mv 2 + I2
2 2
For the sphere
1 1 2 7
mgh = mv 2 + × mv 2 = mv 2
2 2 5 10
For the cylinder
1 1 1 3
mgh = mv 2 + × mv 2 = mv 2
2 2 2 4
The rotational energy for the cylinder is more
than that of the sphere. Thus the sphere will
have more translational kinetic energy at the
bottom.
4.100. A light string with a body of mass m tied to its
end is wound on a pulley of radius R = 10 cm. Initially
at rest, the body begins to descend with an
acceleration a = 5 cm/s2. (i) What will be the angular
velocity of the pulley when the body has descended
through a distance s = 10 cm? (ii) What will be the
acceleration of a point O marked at the rim of the Fig. 4.76
pulley at that moment (see Fig. 4.76).
254 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution: The velocity v after a descent of 10 cm,

2as = 2 5 10 = 10 cm/s
v 10
Angular velocity  = = = 1 rad/s
R 10
2
2 v2
Acceleration of point O = a
R
= 25 100 = 125 = 5 5 cm/s2
4.101. A particle of mass m = 500 g resting on the top of a sphere of radius
R = 100 cm begins to slide down along its surface. The sphere starts rotating
about its vertical diameter with an angular velocity  = 3 rad/s. Calculate
the centrifugal force at the time the particle breaks off from the surface of
the sphere.
Solution: At the point of break-off there will be no reaction force and
mv 2
mg cos  =
R
v2
or g cos  = ; v = 2gh
R
2h
or cos  =
R
R h 2h
or = (see Fig. 4.77) Fig. 4.77
R R
R
or h =
3
4R 2 5
r = R2 =R
9 9
5
Centrifugal force mr2 = m2 R
9
On substituting the values of m,  and R, we have
5
Centrifugal force = 0.5 × 9 × 1 × = 1.5 × 5 = 1.5 × 2.237 = 3.35 N
3
4.102. According to Bohr first postulate an electron of charge e and mass
m moving around the nucleus experiences a force F = ke 2/r 2 where k is
constant and r is electron nuclear distance. According to Bohr’s second
postulate, among infinite circular orbits only those are allowed in which
nh
the angular momentum L of the electron is equal to . Calculate the
2
possible radii of the circular orbits in which the electron can move.
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 255
Solution: The equation of motion of electron in the circular orbit is given
by
ke 2 v2
F = 2 =m
r r
ke 2
or r =
mv 2
ke 2mr
or 1 =
(mvr )2
n2 h 2
or (mvr)2 = L2 = = ke 2mr
4 2
n 2 h2
or r =
4  2 kme 2
4.103. A horizontal circular table of radius r = 1 m carrying a gun at its
rim rotates about a vertical axis passing through O, the centre of the table
(see Fig. 4.78). The combined moment of inertia about this axis is
19.9 kg m2. During rotation of the table a bullet of mass m = 100 g is fired
tangentially with a velocity v = 200 m/s. Calculate the increment in the
angular velocity.
Solution: Let I be the combined moment of inertia of the circular table
and gun about an axis passing through O. The initial angular momentum
of the system is (I + mr 2) 1
where 1 is the initial angular velocity.
After it is fired, the velocity of the bullet is v – r2
where 2 is the final angular velocity. Now
final angular momentum of the system
= I2 – m (v – r2)r
r
In view of the law of conservation of angular
O
momentum, we have
(I + mr 2) 1 = I2 – m (v – r2) r
or (I + mr 2) 1 = (I + mr 2) 2 – mvr 

or mvr = (I + mr 2) (2 – 1)

Fig. 4.78
mvr
 =
I mr 2
On substituting the values of m, v, r and I, we have
0.1 200 1 20
 = = = 1 rad/s
19.9 0.1 1 20
4.104. A uniform wire is bent in the form of a circle of radius r = 9.8 cm. It
is initially at rest and its diameter OA is horizontal. It is swinging about O
in the vertical plane. Calculate its angular velocity  when its diameter
occupies the position OB (see Fig. 4.79).
256 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution: On rotating the wire about O its centre of gravity is lowered by a

distance r. The loss in potential energy = mgr; m being the mass of the wire.
This energy is balanced by the gain in
kinetic energy (1/2) I2, where I is the moment
of inertia about an axis passing through O. O
A
I = mr 2 + mr 2 = 2mr 2 G
1
 I2 = mr 2 2 = mgr
2 G
g
or  =
r
On substituting the values of g and r, we have B
9.8 Fig. 4.79
= 2 = 10 rad/s
9.8 10
4.105. Fig. 4.80 shows a rough track consisting of a straight portion and
a curved portion of radius R. A solid sphere of mass m and radius r is
placed on the straight portion of the track. What minimum speed should
be imparted to the spheres at rest. So that it may go around the circle
after rolling on the horizontal part of the track.
Solution:
1 1 2
Total energy of the sphere at A = mv 2 + · mr 22
2 2 5
1 1
= mv 2 + mv 2
2 5
7
= mv 2
10
Total energy of the sphere at B
= Translational kinetic energy + potential energy
+ rotational kinetic energy
1 1 2
= mg (R – r) + mg 2 (R – r) + × mg (R – r)
2 2 5
In view of conservation of energy we have
7 27 g ( R r )
mv2 =
10 10
27 Fig. 4.80
or v = g (R r )
7
4.106. A ball of radius r initially at rest rolls without slipping down from
the top of a sphere of radius R. Calculate the angular velocity of the ball
at the instant it break off the sphere.
1 1 7
Solution: Total kinetic energy of ball = I2 + mv 2 = mr 22
2 2 10
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 257
As the ball rolls down the gain in kinetic energy = loss in potential
energy
7
or mr 22 = mg (r + h) (see Fig. 4.81)
10
When the ball breaks off from the sphere, we have
mv 2
= mg cos 
R r
x
or v 2 = (R + r) g ·
R r
= gx
= g [R – h]
7
Now mr 22 = mgr + m [gR – v 2]
10
7
mr 2 2 + mr 2 2 = mg (R + r); v = r 
10 Fig. 4.81
10g ( R  r )
or =
17r 2
R
4.107. A ball of mass m and radius is placed inside a spherical shell of
4
mass m and radius R. The ball is released from the position a. Find the
distance covered by the shell when the ball acquires the position b as
shown in Fig. 4.82.
Solution: Here no external force is acting hence centre of mass will not
change.
R
mx m x R
4
Xcm =
2m
3R
=x–
8
mx mx
Final centre of mass X cm = = x'
2m
3R
Now x' = x –
8 Fig. 4.82
3R
The displacement of the shell = x – x' =
8
4.108. A boy of mass m is at the edge of a horizontal disc of mass M and
radius R. The disc is capable of rotating about a vertical axis passing
through its centre. The boy starts moving along the edge of the disc with
a velocity v which varies with time and stops after describing the angle 
relative to the disc. Find (i) the angle through which the disc has turned.
(ii) the moment of the force with which the boy acted on the disc.
258 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution: (i) Let 1 be the angle of rotation of the disc and 2 be the actual
angle described by the boy, then  = 1 + 2
Further in the absence of the external force we have
1
MR 2 · 1  mR2    1 
2 =0
1
MR2  mR2
2
mR 2
or 1 =
1
MR 2 mR2
2
2m
=
2m M
d 1 1 d2 1
(ii)  = MR 2 = MR2 ·
dt 2 2 dt 2
1 2m d2
= MR2 · ·
2 2m M dt 2
mMR 2 d2
= ·
2m M dt 2
R · d
Now v =
dt
dv Rd2
 =
dt dt 2
m MR dv
 = ·
M  2m dt
4.109. A man of mass 60 kg is standing at the edge of a disc of mass 100 kg
and radius 1.5 m. The disc rotates at a rate of 10 rpm about a vertical axis
passing through its centre. (i) With how many rotations per min the disc
will rotate if the man moves from the edge of disc to its centre ? (ii) What
work will be performed by the man in going from edge to the centre?
Solution:
(i) Here I should be constant.
1 2  1
 ·100r  60r  × 2 × 10 = 2 × 100 r × 2n
2 2

2 
110 10
n= = 22 rpm
50
2 2
1 100 r 2 22 1 1 10
(ii) E = × × 4 ×
2
– 100r 2 60r 2 · 42 ×
2 2 60 2 2 60
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 259
On putting r = 1.5 m
E = 163.25J
4.110. A boat is travelling with a speed of 27 km/hr due east. An observer
is situated at 30 m south of the line of travel. Calculate the angular
velocity of the boat relative to the observer in the position shown in
Fig. 4.83.
Solution: v = 27 km/hr = 7.5 m/sec
In view of Fig. 4.83 we have L
r = Li + 30j 30 m
j
= 30 tan  i + 30 j
° r
dr 45
Now v = = 30 sec2  ·  i =
dt
7.5 = 30 × 2 · ;  = 45° i
7.5 Fig. 4.83
 = = 0.125 rad/sec
60
4.111. A vehicle is moving towards south with an absolute velocity of
27 km/hr. An observer is positioned at O (to the east of line of travel) at a
distance of 20 m. After moving 20 m it reaches point B see Fig. 4.84. What
is the angular velocity relative to the observer.
A 20 m
Solution: 27 km/hr = 7.5 m/sec O

7.5
vBO = 27.5 cos 45 =
2 20 m
7.5
vBO = = OB × BO
2
7.5 B
 BO = vBO
2 OB
7.5 7.5 Fig. 4.84
= = = 0.188 rad/sec
2 20 2 40
4.112. Two identical dumbells prepared l l
by using four identical masses and two m m
massless rods of length l = 0.5 m are
v v
arranged as shown in Fig. 4.85. They
come towards each other with a linear
velocity of v = 2 m/sec and collide
inelastically. Find (i) angular speed of
rotation (ii) the period during which the
rotation occurs.
m m
Solution: (i) As a result of collision
the two dumbells will rotate in the Fig. 4.85
260 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

clock-wise direction about their centres. The angular velocity of rotation

v 2v 2 2
is given by  = = = = 8 rad/sec
l l 0.5
2
r r
(ii) The time in which the rotation occurs = =
v r
 3.14
= =
= 0.4 sec
 8
4.113. Find the acceleration of an object O which moves without initial
velocity along a helical grove of pitch h and radius r after completing n
turns.
Solution: Velocity after n turns is given by relation
1 r
mv 2 = mg · nh
2 o
or v = 2gnh
Let  be the inclination of the grove. The h
particle will execute circular motion with velocity
v cos . The normal acceleration is given by
v 2 cos2 
An =
r
h
In view of Fig. 4.86b; tan  =
2 r Fig. 4.86a
 2 r 
2
v2
An = · 2
r h  4  2r 2
nh
gh
At = g sin  = g
h 2  4  2r 2 2rn 

v 4  2 r 
4
g 2h 2 Fig. 4.86b
A= An2 At2 = 
r 2 h2  4  r2 2 2
 h 2  4 2r 2
gh
= 2 64  4n 2 r 2  h 2 4  2r 2
h  4  2r 2
4.114. A ball of radius r = 0.25 cm rolls without slipping on a horizontal
table with a constant speed v = /10 m/sec. The ball rolls off the edge of
the table and falls vertically below a distance h = 19.6 cm. Calculate the
number of revolution made by the ball while it is moving in air.
2h
Solution: The time for free fall = t =
g
2h
The distance covered with velocity v = v
g
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 261
In one revolution the distance covered by the ball = 2r
v 2h
 no. of revolutions n = ·
2 r g
2
1 2 19.6 10 1
n= × 2 = =4
10 2 0.25 10 9.8 0.25
4.115. A wheel of radius 2 m rolls to the right on a horizontal plateform
with an angular velocity  = 8 rad/sec and an angular acceleration of
 = 3 rad/sec2 in the anticlockwise direction. Calculate the linear velocity
and acceleration of the point B marked on the rim.

Fig. 4.87a Fig. 4.87b

Solution: OO = r 
Velocity of centre = r = 2 × 8 = 16 m/sec
vB = 2vO = 32 m/sec
At = r = 2 × 3 = 6 m/sec2
An = r2 = 2 × 64 = 128 m/sec2
Horizontal acceleration Ah = Ao + At = 2 × 3 + 6 = 12 m/sec2
Vertical acceleration An = 128 m/sec2
A= Ah2 An2 = 1282 12 2 = 128.56 m/sec2
4.116. Four equal masses m are placed at quarter points of a thin massless
rim of radius r. Find the angular momentum relative to the centre.

a b c
Fig. 4.88
262 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution: J = jr × i 2mv + ir × – jmv + – ir × jmv

= – 2 mvrk – mvrk – mvrk = – 4 mvrk
4.117. An artificial satellite of mass m is moving in a circular orbit of radius
r around earth. Express the angular momentum in terms of kinetic,
potential and total energy of the satellite.
1
Solution: K.E. = K = mv2
2
K
v = 2
m
1
J =  2mr 2 K  2

G Me m U
P.E. = U = – ; =v
r m
1
U
J = mr ·  =   mr U  2
2

m
1 1
Total energy E = mv 2 – mv 2 = – mv 2
2 2
2 E 1
J = mr · =   2mr 2 E  2
m
4.118. A solid sphere B of mass M and radius R is situated at the top of
another sphere A of radius 2R as in Fig. 4.89. On displacing the sphere B it
begins to roll down the surface of sphere A. Assuming the coefficient of
sliding friction as µ find the angle  at which the sphere B begins to slide
on the surface of sphere A.
Solution: Let  be the angle which describes
the rotation of the sphere B about its own
axis.
The centre O' of sphere B moves in a
circular path of radius 3R.
The kinetic energy of sphere B is given by
1 1 2
EK = M (3R  )2 + · MR2  2
2 2 5
1 2 2
= MR2 9  2 Fig. 4.89
2 5
Potential energy at an angle  is given
EP = Mg · 3R cos 
According to conservation of energy we have
1 2 2
3MgR = Mg · 3R cos  + MR2 9  2
2 5
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 263
2 2 6g
or 9  2 +  = (1 – cos )
5 R
The centre of the sphere B moves with a velocity vo given by
y
vo = 3R  = R 
or  = 3 
2 6g
9 2 + · 9 2 = (1 – cos )
5 R
 2 = 10 g (1 – cos ) and  = 5 g · sin 
21 R 21 R
2
Further fr · R = µ N · R = MR2 
5
The equation of motion of the sphere is
Mg cos  – N = M · 3R ·  2
10 g
N = Mg cos  – 3MR · (1 – cos )
21 R
Mg
= (17 cos  – 10)
7
Mg 6 6 5g
µ· (17 cos  – 10) = MR  = × MR × (sin )
7 5 5 21 R
or 2 sin  = µ (17 cos  – 10)
2sin
17 cos  – 10 = =0
17
= = 54°
10
4.119. A thin hoop of mass m and radius r starts from rest from A and
rolls down along a cylindrical surface of radius R as in Fig. 4.90. Find the
1
angle  at which the hoop will begin to slip. Coefficient of friction µ = .
3
Solution: At the point B we will have
mv 2
mg cos  – Ro = ; R = reaction force
R r o
mv 2
or Ro = mg cos  –
R r
Force of friction = µ Ro
mv 2
= µ mg cos
R r
Fig. 4.90
mv 2
Further mg sin  – µ mg cos = mA; A = acceleration
R r
264 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

µRo · r = I = mr 2
µRo = mA
In view of this
mv 2
mg sin  = 2 mg cos µ
R r
According to conservation of energy
1 1
mv 2 + · I2 = mg (R + r) (1 – cos )
2 2
1 1
mv 2 + mv 2 = mv 2 = mg (R + r) (1 – cos )
2 2
3 mg sin  = 2 [mg cos  – mg (1 – cos )]
3 sin  = 4 cos  – 2
(3 sin  + 2)2 = 16 (1 – sin2 )
or 25 sin2  + 12 sin  – 12 = 0
12  144  25  4  12
sin  = 
50
= 0.4932
 = 29° 32'
4.120. A cylinder of mass m and radius r rolls without slipping down an
incline plane of mass M which lies on a frictionless horizontal table (see
Fig. 4.91). The angle of inclination is . Find the acceleration of the plane
while the rolling takes place.
Solution: Let the cylinder
acquires a velocity v with
respect to the wedge and V
is the instantaneous
horizontal velocity of the
plane.
MV = m (v cos  – V )
Fig. 4.91
( M m) V
v=
m cos
Let the cylinder moves through x along the plane then
1 1 2 1
K= MV 2 + m v cos V v 2 sin 2 + I2
2 2 2
1 1 3
= MV 2 + mV 2 + mv 2 – mvV cos 
2 2 4
1 3 ( M m)2 V 2 mV cos  ( M  m) V
(M + m) V 2 + m · – = mgx sin 
2 4 m2 cos2 m cos 
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 265

1 3( M m)
(M + m)V 2 1 = mgx sin 
2 4m cos2
4m2 g · cos2  · sin  · x
V2 =
( M  m )  3( M  m)  2 m cos2 )
4m 2 g · cos2  · sin  · x
=
(M  m)  3( M  m)  m (1  cos 2 )
4m 2 g · cos2  · sin  · x
=
( M  m)(3 M  2m  m cos 2 )
On differentiation we have
4m 2 g · cos2  · sin  · v
2V · A =
( M  m)(3 M  2m  m cos 2 )
4m2 g · cos2  · sin  ( M  m) V
=
m cos  3 M  2m  m cos 2  ( M  m)
mg sin 2 
A =
3 M  2m  m cos 2 
4.121. A cylinder of mass m and radius r is rotated with an angular
velocity o about its own axis and is gently placed on the inclined plane.
Find (i) the distance cylinder moves before sliding stops (ii) the maximum
distance it moves on the slope. The coefficient of sliding friction between
the cylinder and plane is µ (µ > tan ).
Solution: Along the plane we have
µmg cos  – mg sin  = ma
 a = (µ cos  – sin ) g
V = at = g (µ cos  – sin ) t
V > o or µ cos  > sin  or µ > tan 
1
Further µ mg cos  · r = mr2 ·  Fig. 4.92
2
2 g cos
or  =
r
now  = o – a to ; to = the time at which the rolling begins.
g (µ cos  – sin ) to = 0 r – 2 µg cos  · to
r
 to = o

g (3 cos sin )
266 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

The distance moved by the cylinder is given by

2 2
1 1 or
l1 = a · t o2 = (µ cos  – sin ) g · 2 2
2 2 g 3 cos sin
2 2
r
o cos sin
= 2
2 g 3 cos sin
At the moment pure rolling set up the kinetic energy of the cylinder.
1 1 3
K.E. = mv 2 + mv 2 = mv 2
2 4 4
or
v = ato = (µ cos  – sin ) g ·
g 3 cos sin
cos sin o r
=
3 cos sin
K.E. = mgl2 sin  ; l2 = further moved distance
3m v 2
l2 =
4 mg sin
2 2 2
3 or cos sin
= · 2
4 3 cos sin g sin
2 2 2
2 2
o r cos sin 3 or cos sin
l = l1 + l2 = 2 + 2
2 g 3 cos sin 4 3 cos sin g sin
2 2
r
0 cos sin
=
4g sin 3 cos sin
4.122. A hollow cylindrical disc of mass m and radius r moving with a
constant speed vo comes to an incline plane making an angle  with the
horizontal. If there is no slipping then to what height it will rise up the
plane.
Solution: When it is going up the plane the equation of motion is given by
– (mg sin  + fs ) = ma; a = acceleration
Further mr 2 ·  = fs · r
 fs = ma
g sin
a = –
2
1 2
g sin
Now m v0 = m · ·h
2 2
v02
h =
g sin
Fig. 4.93
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 267
4.123. In the above problem calculate the height h if the disc is replaced
by solid sphere of mass m and radius r.
Solution: The equation of motion is given by
– (mg sin  + fs ) = ma
2
Further mr2 ·  = fs · r
5
2
ma = fs
5
5
a = g sin 
7
1 5
Now m v02 = m · g sin  · h
2 7
7v02
h=
10 g sin 
4.124. A solid sphere of radius r and mass m rolls down an incline without
sliding. Find the amount of work done by the force of friction with the
minimum value of µ.
Solution: Equation of motion of the sphere is given by
mg sin  – µ mg cos  = ma
2
Further mr 2 ·  = µ mg cos  · r
5
2
ma = µ mg cos 
5
5 5
a = g sin ,  = g sin 
7 7r
In view of conservation of energy Fig. 4.94
1 1 7
W + mgh = mv 2 + I2 = mv 2; W = work due to force of friction
2 2 10
7 7 5
W + mg l sin  = m · 2 al = m · 2 l × g sin  = mgl sin ;
10 10 7
l = distance covered along the plane
W=0
4.125. A particle of mass m is thrown at an angle  to the horizontal with
an initial velocity vo. The path of the particle lies in xy plane (see Fig. 4.95a).
Find (i) the torque acting on the particle at an instant t (ii) the angular
momentum of the particle. Evaluation should be made relative to the point
of projection.
Solution:
(i) The displacement of the particle along x axis is (vo cos  · t) i
268 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Fig. 4.95a Fig. 4.95b

Force acting on the particle = (mg) · – j
 = r × F = (vo cos  · t) × mg (i × – j)
= – k mgvo cos  · t
(ii) In view of Fig. 4.95b
L1 = (vo cos  · t) i × mvo sin  · j
= m v02 sin  cos  · t · k
 1 
L2 =  vo sin   t  gt 2  j × mvo cos  · i
 2 
 1 2
= –  mv0 sin   cos   t  mv0 g cos   t  k
2

 2 
1
Net angular momentum = mvo g cos  · t2 · k
2
4.126. A body of mass m = 200 gm is thrown from a height h in a
horizontal direction with a speed of vo = 25 m/sec. Calculate the increase
in the angular momentum of the body relative to the point of projection
in the time t = 3 sec.
1 2
Solution: In the period of t sec it will fall through gt .
2
1 2
L = gt × – j × mvoi
2
1
= mvo gt2 · k
2
On substituting the values we have
1
L = × 0.2 × 25 × 9.8 × 9
2
= 220.5 kg m2/sec. Fig. 4.96
4.127. A particle of mass 0.5 kg is thrown vertically upward along z axis
with a speed of v = 20 m/sec from the point (0, 3, 0). Find the increase in
angular momentum relative to the origin during the entire time of flight.
Solution:
Initial angular momentum = 3j × (0.5 × 20k) = 30i
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 269
Final angular momentum = 3j × (0.5 × 20 × – k) = – 30i
Increase L = – 30i – 30i = – 60i
4.128. An object of mass m slides down an incline without friction. Relative
to the point O determine (i) the torque on the body (ii) the angular
momentum after a lapse of time t.
Solution:
(i)  = r × F
= h cos  × mg sin  · n;
n is the normal directed
away from the paper.
1
= mgh sin 2 · n
2
Fig. 4.97
(ii) J = h cos  × mg sin  · t · n
1
= mgh sin 2 · t · n
2
4.129. Two particles of mass m1
m2
and m2 are moving rectilinearly in
opposite direction with velocities v2
v1 and v2 as shown in Fig. 4.98. The
l1 l2
distance between the path 1 L 2
y
followed by the two particles is L.
Find the total angular v1 x
momentum of the particle
m1 z
relative to the points 1 and 2.
Solution:
Fig. 4.98
L1 = l1 i × m1 v1 j + (l1 + L) i × m2v2 × – j
= (m1v1l1 – m2v2l1 – L m2v2) k
[l1 (m1v1 – m2v2) – Lm2v2] k
L2 = – l2 i × – m2 v2 j – (l2 + L) i × m1v1 j
= [l2m2v2 – l2m1v1 – L m1v1] k
= [l2 (m2v2 – m1v1) – Lm1v1] k
4.130. Due to cooling the linear dimensions of a solid homogenous sphere
uniformly rotating about its diameter diminishes by 0.1%. What effect
will this have on the angular velocity?
Solution: According to conservation of angular momentum
2 2
mr2  = m (r – dr)2 ·
5 5
2 dr
 = 1
r
270 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

 2 dr 
= =  1  
2 dr  r 
1
r
dr
Now × 100 = 2 ×
× 100 = 0.2%
r
4.131. A cylinder of mass m and radius r is placed on a horizontal plate-
form which is moving with a constant acceleration A. In the absence of
slip determine the acceleration of the centre of the cylinder. If µ = 0.3
then what will be the maximum acceleration of the plateform without
slip between them?
Solution: Ao = r + A
Further F = mAo
Taking the moment about O (see Fig. 4.99).
1
– mAor = mr 2 
2
– 2 Ao = r = Ao – A Fig. 4.99
 A = 3Ao
A
or Ao =
3
A
F = 0.3 mg = m ·
3
 A = 0.3 × 3 × 9.8
= 8.82 m/sec2
4.132. A solid sphere of mass m and radius r is released from rest from
the top of a rough incline plane. The coefficient of friction is µ. What
maximum angle the slope will have with the horizontal for the sphere to
roll down the plane without sliding?
Solution: Let the required angle be . The equation of motion is given by
mg sin  – µ mg cos  = ma
2
Further mr 2 = µmg cos  · r
5
5
or ma = µ mg cos 
2
7
mg sin  = µ mg cos 
2
7
tan  =
2
 7 
 = tan–1  
 2 
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 271
4.133. A bar AB of length 2l and mass m is rotating with an angular
velocity  about the shaft OO' (see Fig. 4.100). The axis of the bar makes
an angle  with the shaft. Find the torque acting on the shaft.
Solution: Consider elements of length dx
at a distance x from the axis. Force acting O
on both the elements is equal to
m B
· dx · x · sin  · 2
2l x
Torque acting on the element
x l
m
d = · dx · x · sin  · 2 · 2x cos 
2l 
m
d = · sin 2  ·  · x dx
2 2
A dx
2l
Net torque  =  d 
O
l
m
= sin 2 · 2 x 2 dx Fig. 4.100
2l 0
ml 2 2

= sin 2
6
4.134. A point mass m is attached at B at the rim of a disc of mass m and
radius r. The disc rolls without sliding on a horizontal plane. During
motion the angular velocity of the disc is 4 when point B is directly
below A. Find the angular velocity  of the disc when the point B is
directly above the centre A.
Solution: The centre of mass is at O and is at a distance of 0.5 r from the
centre A (see Fig. 4.101).
The total moment of inertia = 2m · (0.5 r)2 = 0.5 mr 2
According to conservation of energy
1 1
[0.5 mr 2] 162 + × 2m (0.5 r × 4)2
2 2
1 1
= [0.5 mr 2]2 + × 2m (0.5 r)2 + 2mgr
2 2
4 mr 22 + 4 mr 22 – 0.25 mr 22
– 0.25 mr 22 = 2mgr
7.5 mr 22 = 2mgr
2g
 = Fig. 4.101
7.5r
4.135. A bar of mass m and L can freely rotate about an axis passing
through the point O. The bar is deflected from the vertical by an angle 
272 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

and released. Calculate the velocity of the lower end of the bar when it
makes an angle  from the vertical.
Solution: According to conservation of energy
1
mgh1 = mgh2 + I2
2
L L
mg 1 cos 1 cos
2 2
1 mL2
= · · 2
2 3
mL 2
mg [cos  – cos ] = 
3
3g
or  = ·  cos   cos  
L
Fig. 4.102
v = L = 3gL cos cos
4.136. A solid sphere of mass m and radius r rolls down an incline plane
of length L and slope angle . Calculate the speed of the centre of mass
of the sphere when it reaches at the bottom of the plane.
Solution: According to conservation of
energy
mg [L sin  + r cos ] – work against force
1 1 2
of friction = mv 2 + × mr 22
2 2 5
Fig. 4.103
7
mg [L sin  + r cos ] – µ mg cos  · L = mv2
10
10g
v= L sin r cos L cos
7
4.137. A fly wheel of mass m and radius r is rotating about its own axis
with an angular velocity . What force should be applied to stop the
wheel in t sec? Coefficient of friction is µ.
Solution: Loss in kinetic energy should be equal to work against friction.
1 2 mr 2 2 r r
I = =µ·F· · t; = average velocity
2 4 2 2
mr
F =
2 t
4.138. A linear velocity V is given to a hoop of mass m and radius r placed
on a rough horizontal surface. Calculate the angular velocity of the hoop
when it stops slipping.
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 273
Solution: m (V – v) = at ; a = acceleration
mV 2 V
– mv 2 = a · t
2 2
On dividing the two we have
V v 1
2 2 =
V 2v V
V 2 – Vv = V 2 – 2v 2
V
v =
2
v V
 = =
r 2r
4.139. A sphere of mass m and radius r is projected along a rough
horizontal plane with an initial velocity vo. Calculate its speed when it will
roll without sliding.
2
Solution: mr 2 = µmgr
5
5 g
 =
2r
mg
acceleration a = = µg
m
now v = vo – µgt and  = o + t
5
vo – µgt = r o + rt = µgt ; o = 0
2
2 vo
or t =
7 g
2 vo 5
v = vo – µg · = vo
7 g 7
4.140. A solid sphere of mass m and radius r rotating with an angular
velocity o is placed gently on a rough incline plane of angle  and
coefficient of friction µ. The sphere moves up the plane. Determine (i) the
time at which the sphere starts to roll without slipping up the plane
(ii) the distance through which the ball subsequently rolls without slipping
up the plane.
Solution: When the sphere makes contact with the plane then slipping
occurs till v = r
The equation of motion is given by
µmg cos  – mg sin  = ma
or a = µ g cos  – g sin 
2
Further µ mg cos  × r = mr2 
5
274 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Fig. 4.104a Fig. 4.104b

2
or µ g cos  = r
5
 = o – t

or o
=
t
v r
µ cos  – g sin  = a = =
t t
2
µg cos  = r· o

5 t
2 0 r
= g cos g sin
5 t
7 2 2 or
or µg cos  – g sin  =
5 5 5 t
2 or
or t =
g 7 cos 2 sin
2 or
v = at = (µg cos  – g sin ) ×
g 7 cos 2 sin
2 r
o cos sin
=
7 cos 2 sin
The ball continues to move up till loss in K.E. = gain in P.E.
1 1
mg S sin  = mv 2 + I2
2 2
7
2mg S sin  = mv 2
5
7v 2
or S =
10 g sin 
 2 or   cos   sin  
2
7
=  
10 g sin   7  cos   2 sin  
2 2 2
14 0r cos sin
= ·
5 g sin 7 cos 2 sin
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 275
4.141. A solid disc of radius r has a circular hole of radius r1 whose centre
is at a distance l from the centre of the disc. Find its acceleration if it rolls
down an incline plane of angle .
Solution: Let m be the mass of the disc
m r12
Mass of the hole created =  r 2
= m
r 2 1
r2
m
Mass of the remaining portion of the disc = 2 r 2 r12
r
Moment of inertia of the portion
taken out of the disc about its centre
1 r14
= m 2
2 r
Moment of inertia of the portion
taken out of the disc about the centre
1 r4 r12l 2
of the disc = m 12 + m 2
2 r r
2
1 r Fig. 4.105
= m 12 r12 l 2
2 r
1 1 r2
Moment of inertia of the disc with hole = mr 2 – m 12 r12 l 2
2 2 r
Equation of motion of the disc moving down the plane
m m 2 m
r 2 r12 g sin  – µ 2 r r1 g cos  = 2 r r1 A;
2 2 2

r2 r r
A = acceleration
m 2 m r 4 r14 r12l 2
Further µ r r12 g cos  · r = ·r
r2 2 r3
m m
µ r2 r12 g cos  = r4 r14 r12 l 2 A
r2 2r 4
m m 2 m 4
Hence r2 r12 g sin  = r r12 r r14 r12 l 2 A
r2 r2 2r 4
2 r2 r12 r 2 g sin
A=
3r 4 2r 2r12 r12l 2 r14
4.142. A hemisphere of mass m and radius r is released from the position
as shown in Fig. 4.106a and acquires the position as shown in Fig. 4.106b.
Assuming that the hemisphere rolls without sliding determine (i) the
angular velocity of the sphere after it has rolled through 90° (ii) the normal
reaction force at the surface at the same instant.
276 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution: (i) Moment of inertia of the hemisphere about an axis passing

2
through O = mr 2
5
According to the theorem of parallel axis
2
3r 2 3r
IG + m · = mr 2; OG =
8 5 8
2 9 83
 IG = mr 2 = mr 2
5 64 320 Fig. 4.106a
Energy coservation leads to
1 83 1 25 2 2 3
· mr 22 + m · r  = r · mg
2 320 2 64 8
240 g
 =
2
208 r
Fig. 4.106b
g
or  = 1.074
r
3r
(ii) N = mg + m · × 2
8
3r 240 g
= mg + m · · ·
8 208 r
= 1.433 mg
4.143. A half cylinder of mass m and radius r is released from rest from
the position shown in Fig. 4.107. Assuming that half cylinder rolls without
sliding determine (i) the angular velocity of half cylinder after it has
rolled through 90° (ii) the normal reaction force at the surface at the same
instant.
Solution:
4r  3  4 r
(i) OG = ,  GB =
3 3
1 16r 2
Now IG = mr2 – m · = 0.32 mr 2
2 9 2
According to conservation of energy
2
1 1  3  4  2 2 4r
× 0.32 mr 22 + m   r = · mg
2 2  3  3
Fig. 4.107
0.4246 g
2 =
1.67 r
g
 = 0.5
r
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 277

4r
(ii) N = mg + m · · 2
3
4r 0.4246 g
= mg + m · · ·
3 1.67 r
= 1.1 mg
4.144. A hemisphere of mass m and radius r is released from rest in the
position shown in Fig. 4.108. Find (i) the minimum value of µ for which
the hemisphere starts to roll without sliding, (ii) the corresponding
acceleration of point B.
Solution:
3r 2
(i) µ mg × = mr 2
8 5
3 g 2
= a; a = acceleration of the centre.
e.
8 5
2
2 3r 83
IG = mr2 – m = mr2
5 8 320
Fig. 4.108
83 73 448
IA = · mr2 + mr2 = mr2 = 1.4 mr2
320 64 320
3
Now 1.4 mr 2 = mgr
8
30 g 15 g
 r = =
14 8 56
15g
With this value of a = r = we havee
56
16 15 g 2
µ= × = = 0.2857
15g 56 7
15 g
(ii) Acceleration of the point B = 2r =
28
4.145. Solve the above problem by using a half
cylinder of length l, mass m and radius r instead of
hemisphere.
Solution:
4r
(i) OG =
3
4r 1
µmg · = mr 2 
3 2
3 r
µ=
8g Fig. 4.109
278 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

2
1 4r
Now IG = mr 2 – m ·
2 3
16
= mr 2 0.5 = 0.32 mr 2
9 2
l2 16r 2 2 ml 2
IA = 0.32 mr +
2
m = 0.5 mr 4
4 9 2
2 ml 2 4r
Now 0.5 mr  = mg ·
4 3
16 gr
 =
3 2mr 2 ml 2
With this value of  we have
3 r 16 gr 6r 2
µ= · =
8g 3 2mr 2 ml 2 2mr 2 ml 2
16 grl
(ii) Acceleration of the point B = l =
3 2mr 2 ml 2
4.146. A rotor of weight W and radius r rests in a V shaped support as
shown in the Fig. 4.110. The coefficient of friction at the contact is µ. Find
the couple required to produce rotation (i) by way on maintaining the
contact at the point O, (ii) in the absence of contact at point O.
Solution:
(i) Torque T1 = (µR1 + µR2) r ; R1 and R2 are reactions.
W = (R1 + R2) sin  + µ (R2 – R1) cos 
In the horizontal direction (R2 – R1) cos  = µ (R1 + R2) sin 
 W = (R1 + R2) (1 + µ2) sin 
 W r
 T1 =
1  2  sin 
(ii) R1 = 0  T = µR2r
W = R2 (sin  + µ cos )
W
or R2 =
sin cos
In the horizontal direction
R2 cos  = µ R2 sin 
or µ = cot 
cot   W  r
T= = Wrr cos 
sin   cos 
2
Fig. 4.110
sin 
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 279
4.147. A uniform disc of radius r0 lies on a smooth horizontal plane. A
similar disc spinning with the angular velocity 0 is gently lowered on
the first one. How soon the two discs spins with the same velocity.
Solution: Consider a ring of radius r and r + dr (Fig. 4.111)
m
Mass of the ring = · 2rdr
r02
m
Force of friction df = 2 · 2rdr · µg
r0
2m g
Torque acting on it = d = r · df = · r2 dr
r02
r
2m g 0 2 2m g r0
Net torque  = d = · r dr =
r02 0 3
2m g r0 1
 = = m r02 
3 2
4 g
  =
3r0
According to conservation of angular momentum
1 1 1
mr02 mr02  = m r02 ·0 ;
2 2 2
 = final and common angular
velocity of the two discs.
0
=
2
Further  = 0 – ·t
4 g
0
= 0 – ·t
2 3r0
3r0 o
t= Fig. 4.111
8 g
4.148. A coin of radius r is spinning about a vertical axis as in Fig. 4.112a
with an angular velocity . Find the condition in which its motion will be
stable.

Fig. 4.112a Fig. 4.112b

280 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution: In Fig. 4.112b if we take the moment about C' then

mr 2
·  = mgr sin  = mgr . For small angles.
4
4g
2 =
r
For equilibrium we must have
4g
2 >
r
4.149. A semi-circular thick disc of radius r and mass m rests on a
horizontal surface and is pulled by a horizontal force F applied at the
end B. Find the angle  that the diameter AB makes with the horizontal
just before sliding begins if the coefficient
of friction is µ.
Solution: Taking the moment about O'
µ mg O'D = mg · OC sin 
4r
µ mg r (1 – sin ) = mg · sin 
3
3  µ = (3 µ + 4) sin 
3
sin  = Fig. 4.113
3 4
4.150. A homogenous and uniform bar of
length L is pivoted about a point at a
distance l from one end as shown in l
Fig. 4.114. The bar is released from rest
when it makes an angle  with the vertical. L
Find the angular speed when the bar

becomes vertical.
Solution: In view of conservation of energy
we have
1 m m 2
 ·l ·l 
2
 L  l   L  l   2 Fig. 4.114
2  3L 3L 
2
m L l m l2
= · g [1 – cos ] – · · g [1 – cos ]
L 2 L 2
1 m m g
· L3 3 L2 l 3l 2 L 2 = · (1 – cos ) L2 2 Ll
2 3L L 2
3g L 2l 1 cos
=
L2 3 Ll 3l 2
4.151. Two portions of a rod of lengths l1 and l2 are rigidly fixed at O at an
angle of 90°. The vertex O is connected to a vertical shaft which rotates
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 281
with an angular velocity . For what value of  the rod of length l1 will
make an angle  with the vertical?
Solution: Consider an element of length dx situated at a distance x from
m
O on the bar of length l1. Force acting on the element = dx · x sin  · 2
l1
Taking in moment about O
l1
l1 m
mg ·
2
sin  = l
0 1
dx · x sin  · 2 · x cos 

3 g l12
= 2 l13 · 2
cos
Similarly for the other rod of length l2
l22
will have 3g · = 2 l23 · 2
sin
On substracting the two we have
3g l22 l12
2 =
2 l23 l13 sin cos

3g l22 l12
or  =
2 l 3
2 l 3
1
sin cos Fig. 4.115

4.152. A uniform bar of length L and mass m is rotating at a constant

angular velocity  about a vertical axis through a point at a distance l
from one end. Determine the horizontal and vertical components of the
reaction of the support on the bar.
Solution: Consider an element of length
dx situated at a distance x from O. Force
acting on the element is given by
m
dF = · dx · x sin  · 2
L
L l
m
F = Rh = – sin  · 2 xdx
L l

L
= –m l 2 sin 
2
RV = mg Fig. 4.116

4.153. A uniform bar of length l is pivoted about a horizontal axis through

its lower end and is allowed to fall from its vertical position. Find (i) its
angular velocity (ii) the normal and tangential acceleration.
Solution: Taking the moment about point O.
282 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

l ml 2 y axis
mg · sin  = 
2 3
3g
or  = · sin 
2l

d d 3g
 = = ·= · sin 
dt d 2l mg
3g
d = sin ·d O x axis
2l
2 Fig. 4.117
3g
=– cos  + C
2 2l
At  = 0,  = 0
3g
 C =
2l
3g
or  = 1 cos
l
3g
at = tangential acceleration = l = sin ,
2
an = normal acceleration = l = 3g (1 – cos )
2

4.154. A sphere of mass m and radius r rotating with an angular velocity

0 is placed on a horizontal plateform so that its rotational axis is at an
angle  with the vertical (see Fig. 4.118). Find the velocity v and the angular
velocity  of the sphere as soon as it stops slipping on the plateform.
Solution: Here I0 cos  = constt. since the moment of all external forces
is zero.
I0 sin  = I + mvr
= (I + mr2)horizontal
I 0 sin 2
or horizontal = 2
=  sin 
I mr 7 0
vertical = 0 cos 
2
velocity =  r sin 
7 0 1
and  =  2horizontal  2vertical  2 Fig. 4.118

4.155. A solid and hollow cylinder of mass m and radius r are placed on a
rough inclined plane making an angle  with the horizontal. Find the linear
acceleration of the cylinder. The coefficient of friction between them is
equal to µ.
Solution: For hollow and solid cylinders the equation of motion is
mg sin  + f1 – µ1 mg cos  = ma
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 283
and mg sin  – f2 – µ2 mg cos  = ma
f1 and f2 are the forces acting between the cylinders, µ1 = coefficient of
friction between the plane and hollow cylinder and µ2 = coefficient of
friction between the plane and solid cylinder.
On adding the two we have
2mg sin  + f1 – f2 = 2ma + (µ1 + µ2) mg cos 
1
Further r · f1 = µ × mr 2
2
 f1 = · ma
2
and r · f2 = µ × mr2
 f2 = µ · ma
Now µ1 mg cos  · r = mr 2
or µ1 mg cos  = ma
1 Fig. 4.119
and µ2 mg cos  · r = mr2
2
1
or µ2 mg cos  = ma
2
With these values now
ma
2mg sin  + mg – µma = 2ma + ma +
2 2
7
2mg sin  = ma
2 2
4 g sin
a=
7
4.156. Two identical discs are placed as shown in the Fig. 4.120. Find the
velocity of the centre of mass of the falling disc as a function of height h
through which it has fallen.
Solution:
2 2
1 1 1
mgh = mv 2 + I + I
2 2 2 2 2
1 2
mgh = mv 2 + I
2 4
1 1 mv 2
= mv 2 + ·
2 2 4
5mv 2
mgh =
8
8 gh
v = Fig. 4.120
5
284 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

4.157. A bar held at an angle  with the horizontal is released. For what
value of µ the lower end of the bar will not slip.
1 l
Solution: ml 2 ·  = mg · cos ;
3 2
l = length of the bar
m = mass of the bar
3g
= cos 
2l
l
Tangential acceleration a =  ·
2
3
= g cos  Fig. 4.121
4
3 mg
Now mg cos  – N cos  + f sin  = ma = cos 
4
and along the length of the bar we have
mg sin  – N sin  – f cos  = 0
N = mg – f cot 
3 3
= mg – · mg sin  cos  · cot ; f = a sin  = mg cos  sin 
4 4
mg
= [4 – 3 cos2 ]
4
mg 3
f = µN = µ · [4 – 3 cos2 ] = · mg · cos  · sin 
4 4
3 sin cos
µ 
1 3 sin 2
4.158. A block of mass m = 20 gm is attached by a weightless spring of
force constant K = 100 N/m and of length 19.6 cm. At time t = 0 a constant
angular acceleration  = 0.5 rad/sec2 is imparted to the cone. Find (i) the
position of the block from the top of the cone when the contact is lost
with the surface of cone (ii) the time when the block will leave the contact
with the surface.
Solution:
(i) Let l be the elongation of the spring. On
equationg the forces we have
mr2 cos 30 + mg cos 60 = Kl
mg sin 60 – mr2 cos 60 = N = 0
therefore 3 · g = r
2

With this identity we have

3 1
m· 3g· + mg · = Kl Fig. 4.122
2 2
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 285

2mg 2 20 10 3 9.8
or l = = = 0.392 cm
K 100
 total length = 19.6 + 0.392 = 19.992 = 20 cm
r
(ii) sin 60 =  r = 0.1 × 3
0.2
3·g
2 = = 10g = 98
0.1  3
 = 98
 · t = 0.5 t = 98
98
t = = 19.8 sec
0.5
4.159. A thin rod PQ of length L and mass m
is pivoted at P to an axle OO' which rotates
with an angular velocity . The end Q of the
rod is connected to the axle with the help of
thin wire QR. Under these conditions the rod
makes an angle  with the horizontal (see
Fig. 4.123). Find the tension in the wire QR.
Solution: Consider an element of length dl
situated at a distance l from P. Fig. 4.123
m
dF = Force acting on the element = · dl · l cos  · 2
L
m
Torque acting on the element = · dl · l cos  · 2 · l sin 
L
L
m
Torque acting on the rod = · 2 sin  cos  ·  l 2 dl
L O
m L2 2
= sin  cos 
3
On taking the moment about P, we have
L m 2 2
T · L sin  = mg · cos  + L  sin  cos 
2 3
1 m
 T = mg cot  + L2 · cos 
2 3
4.160. One end of a homogenous rod PQ of mass m and length l rests on
a rough horizontal surface. The rod is maintained at an angle of 60° by
means of a string attached to its other end Q. The string is suddenly cut.
Assuming that the friction between end P of the rod and the surface is
large enough to prevent sliding. Determine (i) the angular acceleration
286 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

of the rod immediately after the string is cut, (ii) the normal reaction
and force of friction at P, (iii) the minimum value of coefficient of
friction.
Solution:
(i) On taking the moment about P we have
ml 2 l l
 = mg · cos 60 = mg
3 2 4
3g
 =
4l
l 3g
(ii) Acceleration of the centre a =  =
2 8
3 mg
Intertial force =
8
3mg 3mg 13mg
N = mg – cos 60 = mg – =
8 16 16
3g 3
Force of friction = ma cos 30 = m · ·
8 2
3 3 mg
=
16
(iii) µN = force of friction
mg
3 3
Force of friction 16
µ= =
N 13mg
Fig. 4.124
16
3 3
= = 0.4
13
4.161. A rectangular plate of dimensions l1 × l2 and mass m is suspended
from two pins A and B (see Fig. 4.125a). If the pin B is suddenly removed
determine (i) the angular acceleration of the plate (ii) the components of
the reaction force at A.

Fig. 4.125a Fig. 4.125b

COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 287
Solution: (i) In view of Fig. 4.125b, we have
l1
mar + I – mg · =0
2
l1
(mr2 + I) = mg ·
2
l1
mg
= 2
I mr 2
l12  l22 m
On putting r = and I = l12 l22
2 12
l1
mg
= 2
m 2 2  l2  l 2 
· l1  l2   m  1 2 
12  4 
3 mgl1 3 g l1
= 2 2
=
2m l1 l2 2 l12 l22
Inertial force of gravity = ma = mr
m 3 g l1
= l12 l22 ·
2 2 l12 l22
3 mg l1
=
4 l12 l22
(ii) Rx + ma sin  = 0
Rx = – ma sin 
3m g · l 1 l2
=  ·
4 l12  l22 2
l
1 l22
3 m g · l1 l2
=–
4 l12  l22 
Ry + ma cos  – mg = 0
 Ry = mg – ma cos 
3mgl1 l1
= mg – ·
4 l12 l22 l  l22
2
1

4l12 4l22 3l12

= mg
4 l12 l22
mg l12 4l22
=
4 l12 l22
288 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

4.162. A solid cylinder 1 m in diameter and having mass of 100 kg is

rolled up a 30° incline by a force of 1200 N as in Fig. 4.126. Assuming no
slipping, determine the speed of the cylinder after 5 sec if the initial speed
is zero.
Solution: Let F be the force of friction then
1200 – F – mg sin 30 = ma
1 a
Further 1200 × r + F × r = I = mr2 ·
2 r
1
 1200 + F = ma
2
1 mg
2400 – ma – = ma
2 2
mg 3 ma
2400 – =
2 2
dv 2 2400 g
=
dt 3 m 2
2 2400 g
v= ×t
3 m 2
2 Fig. 4.126
= [24 – 4.9] × 5
3
19.1 10
= = 63.7 m/sec
3
4.163. A solid cylinder of mass 100 kg and radius 150 mm is attached to
a spring of force constant K = 500 N/m and of length 500 mm. The
cylinder can roll without sliding on the horizontal surface. Find the
angular speed of the cylinder when its centre has moved by 500 mm
toward right from the position shown in the Fig. 4.127.
Solution:
Initial K.E. = 0
3 3
Final K.E. = mv 2 = mr 22
4 4
= 0.75 × (0.15 )2 × 100
= 1.6875 2
Initial length of the spring
= 0.52 1 = 1.1180 m Fig. 4.127
1
Initial P.E. = × 500 [1.118 – 0.5]2
2
= 250 × 0.6182 = 95.48 J
Final length of the spring = 0.52 0.52 = 0.707
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 289
1
Final P.E. of the spring = × 500 [0.707 – 0.5]2
2
= 250 [0.207]2
= 10.71 J
According to conservation of energy
1.6875 2 = 95.48 – 10.71
84.77
2 = = 50.23
1.6875
 = 7.08 rad/sec
4.164. A disc of radius r rolls without slipping and the inside of a fixed
cylinder of radius R. The angular velocity  of the disc is constant. Point
P of the disc is in contact with the cylinder. Calculate the velocity and
acceleration of point P at any time t.
Solution: Here the acceleration
  of the point P will be a coriolis
acceleration given by 2 × v
   
= k ; s = i r sin t = k r (1 – cos t)
 
v = r i cos t  k sin t 
ap = acceleration
  
= 2 · r · k  i cos t  k sin t 

or ap = 2r2 cos t j
dvp
= ap
dt
dvp = 2r2 cos t · dt Fig. 4.128
On integration
vp = 2r sin t + C
At t = 0, vp = 0  C = 0
 vp = 2r sin t
4.165. A bullet of mass 150 gm is fired horizontally in the north direction
with a velocity of 400 m/sec at 30°N latitude. Calculate (i) the horizontal
component of coriolis acceleration and the deflection of the bullet on
hitting a target 300 m away (ii) the vertical displacement of the bullet
due to gravity (iii) the coriolis force.

Solution: v = 400 k
  
=  k cos 30 i sin 30
2
= = 7.2 × 10–5 rad/sec
24  60  60
290 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Coriolis acceleration = 2 × v
  
= 2 k cos 30 i sin 30 × 400 k
400
= – 2 × 7.2 × 10–5 × j
2
= 0.0288 m/sec towards west
2

2
1 1 300
Deflection = at2 = × 0.0288 ×
2 2 400
= 8.1 × 10–3 m
1
(ii) Vertical displacement = gt2 = 4.9 × (0.75)2
2
= 2.756 m
(iii) Coriolis force = – 2 m × v
1 
= 2 × 0.15 × 7.2 × 10–5 × 400 × i
 2
= 4.32 × 10–3 i towards east
4.166. A stone is allowed to fall under gravity from the top of a h meter
high tower at the equator. Find the horizontal displacement of the stone
due to the rotation.
Solution: Let us choose z axis along the
earth’s axis, x axis vertical and y axis
perpendicular to x and z.
  
– i · g = ar + 2 × vr
  d 2 x  d 2 y  d2z
ar = i + j + k
dt 2 dt 2 dt 2
  dx  dy  dz
vr = i + j +k
dt dt dt Fig. 4.129
  d x2  d y2  d z 2   dx  dy  dz
– i·g = i 2 +
j 2 +
k 2 + 2k ×
i j k
dt dt dt dt dt dt
  d2 x  d2 y  d2 z  dx  dy
– i·g = i + j +k + 2 j – 2 i
dt 2 dt 2 dt 2 dt dt
dy
On neglecting 2 we have e
dt
d2 x d2 y dx d2z
= – g, + 2 = 0, and =0
dt 2 dt 2 dt dt 2
dx
On integration = – gt + C
dt
dx
At t = 0, = 0,  C = 0
dt
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 291
dx
= – gt
dt
gt 2
On further integration x = – +C
2
At t = 0, x = h  C = h
1 2
or x = h – gt
2
At time t = T the stone touches the ground i.e. x = 0

2h
T =
g
d2 y dx
= – 2 = 2gt
dt 2 dt
dy
On integration = gt2
dt
gt 3
On further integration y =
3
displacement will attain a maximum value at t = T
3
g  2h  2
y= · 
3  g 
4.167. A solid sphere of radius r and mass m is thrown on a plane
horizontal surface with an initial velocity v0 and angular velocity 0 (see
Fig. 4.130). If v0 > r0 then calculate the time t after which the sphere moves
with a constant velocity.
Solution: The frictional force F = mg
The equation of motion is given by
m x = – mg
or x = – g
On integration we have
x = – gt + C
at t = 0
x = v0
Fig. 4.130
 x = v0 – gt
For rotational motion
I = mgr
2 d2
or mr2 · 2 = mgr
5 dt
292 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

2 d
On integration we have r· = gt + C
5 dt
d 2
at t = 0, = 0  C = r0
dt 5
5
or  = 0 + gt
2r
d
These results are valid as long x = r
dt
5
or x = v0 – gt = r0 + gt
2
v0 r 0
t =
5
g 1
2
2
= (v0 – r0)
7 g
4.168. A solid cylinder of radius r and mass m is placed on a horizontal
surface. With an aim of pulling the cylinder on the surface a horizontal
force F is applied to the end of the string wound over the surface of
cylinder. Assuming no slip find (i) the acceleration of the centre (ii) the
coefficient of friction between the cylinder and plane surface in order to
prevent slipping.
Solution: (i) The applied force rotates the cylinder. It is the tendency of
the point of contact to slip toward left therefore the static friction on the
cylinder acts toward right (see Fig. 4.131).
Now F + mg = ma
For rotation we have
1
(F – mg) r = mr2
2
1
or F – mg = ma
2
F + mg = ma
3
2F = ma
2 Fig. 4.131
4F
a =
3m
(ii) mg = ma – F
4F
mg = –F
3
F
or  =
3 mg
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 293
4.169. A homogenous thin metallic hoop of radius r rolls without slip
along a horizontal plane with a velocity vc and strikes an incline plane
 = 45° (see Fig. 4.132). With what velocity V will the hoop starts moving
up the incline plane?
Solution: Just before reaching the point B the hoop has a linear velocity vc
vc
and angular velocity . Point A is the instantaneous centre of rotation.
r
In going up the plane the new centre of rotation is B.
In case of a body performing plane motion, the total angular
momentum is made up of two parts (i) moment of momentum with
respect to that axis of the body considered as a particle of mass m
concentrated at centre of gravity C (ii) the angular momentum of the body
with respect to a parallel axis through the moving centre of gravity of C.
Before moving up
vc
JA = mr 2 + mvc · r cos 45
r
V
After moving up JB = mr 2 + mV · r
r
mvc r
mrvc + = 2mrV
2
1 vc
V = 1
2 2
= 0.8536 vc Fig. 4.132

4.170. A solid cylinder of mass m and radius r is placed on a  = 30°

incline plane. The cylinder is pulled up the incline by applying a constant
force F = mg/2 at the end of the string wound over its circumference as
shown in Fig. 4.133. There is no slip at the point of contact A. Find the
acceleration of the centre of gravity C of the cylinder up the plane.
Solution: For motion, we have
F + mg cos  – mg sin  = ma
1
and F – mg cos  = ma
2
On adding the two we have
3
2F – mg sin  = ma
2
mg 3
mg – = ma
2 2
g Fig. 4.133
or a =
3
294 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

4.171. A string is wound around the circumference of a solid cylinder of

mass m and radius r. The cylinder is placed on a  = 60° incline and is
supported by fixing the end of the string at the point A of a rigid support
(see Fig. 4.134). Assuming the coefficient of friction  at the point of contact
B equal to 1/3 find the acceleration of the cylinder down the plane.
Solution: The equation of motion is given by
mg sin 60 – (T + mg cos 60) = ma
1
and T – mg cos 60 = ma
2
On adding the two we have
3
mg sin 60 – 2mg cos 60 = ma
2
2  3 1 1
or a = g   2 · 
3  2 3 2
2
= g [0.866 – 0.333] Fig. 4.134
3
= 0.355g
4.172. A solid cylinder and a hoop of same mass m and radius r are placed
on a  = 30° incline by connecting them through a bar PQ whose mass is
negligible (see Fig. 4.135). Assuming that there is no slip find (i) the
acceleration of the system down the plane (ii) the tension in the bar.
Solution: The equation of motion of the cylinder and the hoop is given by
mg sin  – T – 1 mg cos  = ma; 1 = coefficient of friction between
the incline plane and cylinder
and
2 = coefficient of friction between
the incline plane and the hoop
T + mg sin  – 2 mg cos  = ma
Further we have
1
r · 1 mg cos  = mr 2
2
1
or 1 mg cos  = ma; a = r
2
and r · 2 mg cos  = mr 2
or 2mg cos  = ma
On substituting these values
we have
3
mg sin  – T = ma Fig. 4.135
2
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 295
T + mg sin  = 2ma
On adding the two equations we have
7
2mg sin  = ma
2
4
or a = g sin 
7
On putting  = 30° we have
2
a= g
7
2g mg
T = 2m · –
7 2
4 1
= mg
7 2
mg
=
14
4.173. A solid sphere of mass m and radius r is placed on a horizontal
rough surface. A tangential force P as shown in the Fig. 4.136 is applied
the sphere. Find the acceleration of the centre of the sphere.
Solution: The applied force P rotates the sphere. Here the point of contact
slips towards the left therefore the frictional force acts toward the right.
For translational part of motion we have
P + mg = ma ;  is the coefficient of friction beween the horizontal
surface and the sphere.
For rotation
2
(P – mg) r = I = mr2
5
2
or P – mg = ma
5
7 ma
or 2P = Fig. 4.136
5
10 P
or a =
7m
4.174. A solid cylinder of radius r rotating about its own axis with an
angular velocity 0 is placed into the corner of the two walls. Assuming
the coefficient of friction between the two walls and the cylinder as  find
the number of rotations made by the cylinder before it stops.
Solution: Let R1 and R2 be the reactions at the point of contact then the
required resisting torque is equal to (R1 + R2)r (see Fig. 4.137)
296 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

On equating the forces in the vertical direction we have

(R2 + R1) = mg; m = mass of cylinder.
In the horizontal direction we have
R1 = R2
Torque =  [R1 + R2] r =  [R1 + R1] r
=  ( + 1) R1r
In the vertical direction we have
2R1 + R1 = mg
mg
 R1 =
1  2
mg
Torque =  ( + 1) · r Fig. 4.137
1  2
 (  1) mg · r 1 d 1 d d
Torque = – = I = mr 2 · = mr 2 · ·
1  2
2 dt 2 d dt
1 d
= mr 2 ·
2 d
2 ( 1)  0
or – 2
g ·  0 d = r   · d  ;  is the total angle described.
1 0

2 ( 1) g · r · 20
or 2
=
1 2
2 (  1) g · 2n r 02
= ; n = number of rotations made by the
1  2 2
cylinder before it stops.
r 20 (1   2 )
n=
8  (  1) g
4.175. A solid spherical rotor of radius
r = 25 cm and mass m is connected through
a thin wire OA as shown in the Fig. 4.138.
The rotor can freely rotate about an axis
passing through its centre O with an
angular velocity 0 = 60 rad/sec. The rotor
is sudden allowed to form a contact at C
with a vertical wall AB. Assuming the angle
 = 20° and the coefficient of friction
between the wall and the rotor as  = 0.25,
find the time elapsed before the rotor
comes to rest.
Solution: On equating the forces in the
horizontal and vertical directions we have Fig. 4.138
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 297
T sin  = R1; R1 is the force of reaction.
T = tension in the wire
and mg + R1 = T cos 
Now mg + T sin  = T cos 
mg
T =
cos sin
mg · sin 
and R1 =
cos    sin 
 · mg sin  2 d
Torque = – R1 · r = – · r = I = mr 2 ·
cos    sin  5 dt
5  · g sin 
 d = – dt
2 r  cos    sin  
0 5  · g sin  0
or  0 d = – 2 r cos    sin    t dt
5  g sin  · t
or 0 =
2 r  cos    sin  
2 r · 0  cos    sin  
or t =
5  g sin 
On substituting the values we have
2 0.25 60(0.9397 0.3420 0.25)
t=
5 0.25 9.8 0.3420
= 6.116 sec
4.176. A uniform disc of radius r and mass m rotating clockwise with an
angular velocity 0 is carefully placed on a horizontal plane as shown in
the Fig. 4.139. Coefficient of friction between the disc and plane is .
Determine (i) the time t1 at which the disc will start rolling without sliding
(ii) the linear and angular velocities of the disc at time t1.
Solution:
(i) mg = ma; a = acceleration of the disc
 a = g
Further I = – mgr
1
mr 2 ·  = – mgr
2
2 g
 = –
r
at t = 0, v = 0 + gt and
2 g
 = 0 – ·t Fig. 4.139
r
298 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

The disc will start rolling without sliding when the velocity of the
point of contact O is zero. At that time t = t1 point O becomes the
instantaneous centre of rotation and we have
 2 g 
g · t1 = r  0  · t1 
 r 
or 3gt1 = r0
r 0
or t1 =
3 g
(ii) velocity at that time
r 0 r 0
vt1 = g · t1 = g · =
3 g 3
1
r0 = r t1
3
0
or t1 =
3
4.177. A spool with thread wound on it, of mass m rest on a rough
horizontal plane. Its moment of inertia relative to its own axis is equal to
I = kmR2 where k is a positive constant and R is the outer radii of the spool.
The radius of the wound thread layer is equal to r. The spool is pulled
without sliding by a force F as shown in the Fig. 4.140. Find
(i) the acceleration of the spool along x axis (ii) the work performed by
the force F in time t1.
Solution:
(i) For translational motion we have
F cos  – mg = ma; a = acceleration and  = coefficient of friction
between spool and
the surface
and mg · R – F · r = kmR · ;  = angular acceleration
2

a
For no slip  =
R
r
 mg = kma + F ·
R
r
or F cos  – kma – F · = ma
R
r
F cos F·
or a= R
m k 1
r
F cos
R
= Fig. 4.140
m k 1
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 299
r
F cos
dv R
(ii) a = =
dt m (k 1)
 r 
F  cos    t1
 R
or v=
m (k  1)
1 1
Total work performed = mv 2 + I2
2 2
1 1
= mv 2 + k · mR 2 2
2 2
1
= (1 + k) mv 2
2
2
1  r
(1  k ) m · F 2  cos    t12
2  R
=
m2  k  1
2

2
1 2 2 r 
F t1  cos   
2  R
=
m  k  1
4.178. A plank of mass m holding a solid sphere of mass M and radius r
rests on a smooth horizontal surface. A constant horizontal force P is
applied to the plank. Assuming no sliding between the plank and the
sphere find (i) the acceleration of the plank (ii) the acceleration of the
centre of the sphere.
Solution: For the plank (see Fig. 4.141) we have
P – f = ma1; f = frictional force between the plank and the horizontal
surface.
a1 = acceleration of the plank.
For the sphere we have
f = M · a2; a2 = acceleration of the sphere
2
and f · r = Mr 2
5
and a1 = a2 + r
On substituting the value of f we have
P – Ma2 = ma1
or P – Ma2 = m (a2 +  · r)
5 f
P = (M + m)a2 + m · r ×
2 Mr
5m
= (M + m)a2 + · Maa2 Fig. 4.141
2M
300 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

or 2P = (2M + 7m)a2
2P
or a2 =
2 M 7m
2P 5 f
a1 = +
2 M 7m 2 M
2P 5 Ma2
= + ·
2M 7m 2 M
2P 5P
= +
2M 7m 2M 7m
7P
=
2 M 7m
4.179. A small cylindrical tube of radius r and negligible mass is connected
to two hoop of radius R by means of massless spokes. The mass of both
the hoops is M. A string wound over the circumference of the tube passes
over a weightless pulley. For the purpose of providing the tension in the
string a weight W of mass m is attached to the end of the string as shown
in the Fig. 4.142. Find (i) the acceleration of the weight (ii) the tension in
the string (iii) the frictional force between the hoop and the surface by
assuming that the hoop does not slip.
Solution:
(i) The velocity v of the
weight and the velocity
of the centre of gravity
of the hoop v 0 are
connected by the
relation
v0 v
=
R R r
vR Fig. 4.142
or v0 =
R r
Let the weight W lowers itself through a
distance h then according to
conservation of energy we have
1 1 1
mgh = mv 2 + M v02 + MR22
2 2 2
1
= mv 2 + M v02 ; v0 = R
2
1 M · R2  2
or mgh =  m  v
 2  R  r 2 
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 301

2mgh
or v = 2
R
m 2M
R r
2mgh
v2 = 2ah = 2
R
m 2M
R r
mg
a = 2
R
m 2M
R r
(ii) mg – T = ma; equation of motion of the weight W
or T = m (g – a)
2
 R 
2m · M · g  
mg  Rr 
=m g 2 = 2
R  R 
m 2M m  2M  
R r  R r 
R
(iii) v0 = v
R r
dv0 R dv
Acceleration of the centre of gravity of the hoop = = ·
dt R r dt
aR
=
R r
M · aR
T–f = ; f = force of friction between the hoop and the
R r
surface
MR
f = T– ·a
R r
2
R
2 m Mg
R r MR mg
= 2 – · 2
R R r R
m 2M m 2M
R r R r
r
mMg 1
R
= 2
r
m 1 2M
R
302 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

4.180. A disc of mass m slides from rest down a plane AB inclined at an

angle  with the horizontal and then moves through a distance l along
the horizontal plane BC (see Fig. 4.143). Assuming the coefficient of
friction between the disc and each of the two planes AB and BC as , find
the work performed by the force of friction for the path AC.
Solution: Work done by the frictional
force along AB + BC is equal to
–  mg cos  · x –  mgl; x is the length
of the plane AB
Further
mg [sin  –  cos ] x = mgl
l
or x = Fig. 4.143
sin cos
l
 Work done = – mgl – mg cos  ·
sin cos
mgl
=  sin    cos    cos 
sin    cos 
mgl sin 
= 
sin    cot 
mgl
= 
1   cot 
4.181. Two thin walled cylinders of mass m and radius r are placed on a
horizontal surface. A board of mass M is placed over these two cylinders
see Fig. 4.144. Initially the system is at rest. A force P is applied to the
board in the horizontal direction. Find (i) the accleration of the board
(ii) the force of friction between the cylinders and the board (iii) the force
of friction between the cylinders and the horizontal surface.
Solution:
(i) Let v be the velocity of F F P
the board. The velocity
F F
of centre of gravity of r r
f f
each of the cylinders is
v
Fig. 4.144
2
Kinetic energy of the board + the two cylinders is
1 2 mv 2 M m v2
Mv 2 + =
2 4 2
Let x be the distance covered then
M m 2
· v = 2 Px
2
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 303
2P
or v2 = ·x
M m
P
 acceleration of the board a =
M m
(ii) equation of motion of the board is given by
M · a = P – 2F ; F is force of friction between the board and the
cylinders.
M ·P
 2F = P –
  m
M
mP
F =
2( M m)
a
(iii) m · = F – f is the equation of motion of a cylinder
2
ma
f = F–
2
mP m·P
= – =0
2 M m 2  M  m
4.182. A uniform disc of radius R spinning about its own axis with an
angular velocity  is carefully placed on the horizontal rough surface.
How long the disc will be rotating on the surface if the coefficient of
friction is equal to .
Solution: Consider an element of radius r and r + dr. (See Fig. 4.145).
Area of the element = 2rdr
m
Mass of the element · 2rdr ; m = mass of the disc..
R2
m
Weight of the element = 2 2rdr · g
R
m
Frictional force on the element = 2 · 2rdr · g
R
Torque d on the element is given by
m
d = 2 · 2rdr · g · r
R
2 mg R 2
Net torque  =  d =
R2
 0 r dr
2 mgR 3
=
3 R2
2 mg R
=
3
1 2 mg R
 = I = mR2 ·  = Fig. 4.145
2 3
304 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

4 g
 =
3R
3 R
Time t = =
4 g
4.183. A spool with a thread wound on it, of mass m and moment of
inertia relative to its own axis as I, is placed on a smooth plane inclined
at an angle  with the horizontal. The free end of the thread is attached
to a rigid base as shown in the Fig. 4.146. Assuming the radius of the wound
thread layer as r, find the accleration of the spool axis.
Solution: Equation of motion of the spool is given by
mg sin  – T = ma
I ·a
and T · r = I =
r
I ·a
T = 2
r
Ia
Now mg sin  – 2 = ma
r
mg sin 
or a=
I
m 2
r
g sin 
=
I
1 Fig. 4.146
mr 2
4.184. Thin threads are tightly wound on the ends of a uniform solid
cylinder of mass m. The free ends of the threads are connected to the
ceiling of an elevator. The elevator is going up with an acceleration a0.
Find (i) the acceleration of the cylinder relative to the elevator (ii) the
force exerted by the cylinder on the ceiling of the elevator.
Solution: The equation of motion of cylinder is given by
mg + ma0 = 2T + ma; a is the acceleration of the cylinder relative to
the elevator.
and 2T × r = I;
r = radius of the cylinder
I = moment of inertia of the cylinder
about its own axis.
1 a
2T × r = mr 2 · (see Fig. 4.147)
2 r
ma
 2T =
2 Fig. 4.147
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 305
On substituting the value of T we have
ma
m (g + a0) = + ma
2
2
a = (g + a0)
3
4.185. In the arrangement shown in the Fig. 4.148 two blocks of masses
M1 and M 2 are connected by a massless thread which passes over a
frictionless pulley of mass m. The coefficient of friction between the block
of mass M 1 and the horizontal
plane is . Initially the system is
at rest. At t = 0 the body of mass
M2 is decending. Find the work
performed by the force of friction
for a period of t sec from the
beginning of the motion.
Solution: Let the block of mass
M2 descends to a distance x then
according to conservation of Fig. 4. 148
energy we have
1 1 1
M2g · x = M2v 2 + I2 + M1v 2 + M1g · x
2 2 2
1 1 1
or (M2 – M1)gx = M2v 2 + mv 2 + M1v 2
2 4 2
On differentiating it with respect to t we have
1
(M2 – M1) gv = M2v · a + mv · a + M1 vaa
2
2 M2 M1 g
or a =
m 2 M1 M2
1 2
Now x = at
2
1 2 M2 M1 g
= · · t2
2 m 2 M1 M2
 M2   M1  g · t 2
=
m  2  M1  M 2 
Work done by the force of friction = – M1gx

 M1  M 2   M1  g 2t 2
= 
m  2  M1  M 2 
306 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

4.186. A man of mass m stands on the edge of a horizontal uniform disc

of mass M and radius R which can rotate about an axis passing through
its centre. At an instant the man moves along the edge through an angle
relative to disc and then stops. Neglecting the dimensions of the man
find (i) the angle through which the disc has turned by the time the man
stopped (ii) the torque with which the man acted on the disc in the
process of motion.
Solution:
(i) The distance travelled along the edge = R
d
Linear velocity = R ·
dt
According to conservation of angular momentum we have
d 1 d
mR ·R+ MR 2 mR 2 =0
dt 2 dt
d 2m d
or =– ·
dt M 2m dt
2m
or =– · 
M  2m
d 2m d
(ii) R =  ·R
dt M  2m dt
2m
v= · v ; v = velocity of the man
M 2m
dv 2m dv
=  ·
dt M  2m dt
2m dv
or R =  ·
M  2m dt
1 M · R2 2m dv
I = Torque = ×  ·
2 R M  2m dt
mM R dv
=  ·
M  2m dt
4.187. A thin circular disc of mass m and radius r is rolling over a plane
horizontal surface. Discuss the cases and determine the parameter
involved. A
Solution: Let v the linear velocity of D
2
the centre O of the disc and its plane l
O
r
mv /a

AB be inclined at an angle  with the  mg 

E
vertical. The various torques acting a G B
on the disc are: R

Fig. 4.149
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 307
(i) Gyrostatic torque T1: This is due to its simultaneous rotation
about its point of contact and about E (see Fig. 4.149). T1 is given
by
T1 = I;
I = moment of inertia of the disc about OE
 = angular velocity about OE
 = rate of precession
I = mk2; k = radius of gyration about OE
v
v = r and  =
l
v v v2
T1 = – mk 2 · = – mk 2 2 · tan 
r l r
–ve sign shows that the torque acts in clockwise.
(ii) Gravitational torque T2: This is due to the weight acting at O
T2 = –mgr sin 
It acts clockwise.
(iii) Centrifugal torque T3: This is due to rotation about E.
mv 2 mv 2
T3 =  · OG =  · r cos ; EG = a.
a l cos 
a OG
In triangle OGE; cos  = =
l r
r
T3 = – mv 2 · = – mv 2 tan 
l
It acts clockwise
For equilibrium we have
v2
–mgr sin  – (–mv 2 tan ) = – mk 2 2 · tan 
r
2
v
or mv 2 tan  + mk 2 tan  = mgr sin 
r
k2
or v 2 tan  1 = gr sin 
r2
k2
or v2 1 = gr cos 
r2
v2 k2
or  = cos–1 1 2
gr r
This angle  is known as angle of lean of the disc for a given
velocity v.
308 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

The minimum velocity known as critical velocity at which the disc

can follow a straight path keeping its plane vertical i.e.  = 0 is
given by
gr
vc =
k2
1
r2
r2
For a disc k2 =
2
2g r
 vc =
3
When the velocity v is less than vc the vertical position will be
unstable and the disc will be tilted over by the force of gravity and
attains an angle .
In the given figure EB = R = radius of curvature of the path of the
disc.
In right angled triangle EOB
OB r
sin  = =
EB R
r r
R = =
sin 1 cos2
r
= 2
4
v k2
1 1
g 2r 2 r2

r2
On putting k 2 = , the radius of curvature R is given by
y
2
r
R=
9v 4
1
4 g 2r 2

4.188. A particle of mass m can slide without friction along the card AB of
a circular disc of radius r rotating in a horizontal plane about an axis
passing through its centre with an angular velocity  (see Fig. 4.150). Find
the period of oscillation of the particle if it is attached between the point
A and B by two similar springs each of force constant k/2.
Solution: The base velocity and the base acceleration of the particle
displaced through x from its original position O is given by
vb =  h 2 x2
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 309

ab = 2 h 2 x2
The supplementary acceleration is
equal to 2x and is perpendicular to AB.
The equation of motion of the particle
along x axis is given by
mx = – kx + m2x
= – (k – m2) x
 k  m2 
 accln. = –   × displacement
 m 
2
2 k m Fig. 4.150
 = =
T m
m
or T = period of oscillation = 2 2
k m
4.189. A disc of radius r = 1 m has a cord AB at a distance h = 0.5 m from
the centre. A particle moves with uniform relative velocity vr = 12 m/sec
along the cord of the disc when the disc rotates with uniform angular
velocity  = 20/sec. Assuming that the prticle is moving in the direction
of rotation of the disc determine the absolute velocity and acceleration of
the particle of the position shown in Fig. 4.151.
Solution:
v = vr + h
= 12 + 20 × 3.14 × 0.5
= 12 + 31.4
= 43.4 m/sec
Base acceleration = 2h
Fig. 4.151
Supplementary acceleration = 2vr
 Net absolute acceleration = 2h + 2vr
= (20)2 × 0.5 + 2 × 20 × 12
= 3479.1 m/sec2
4.190. A block X of mass 0.5 kg is held by a long massless string on a
frictionless inclined plane of inclination 30° to the horizontal. The string
is wound on a uniform solid cylindrical drum Y of mass 2 kg and of radius
0.2 m as shown in Fig. 4.152a. The drum is given an initial angular velocity,
such that the block X starts moving up the plane: (i) Find the tension in
the string during motion (ii) At a certain instant of time, the magnitude of
the angular velocity Y is 10 rad/sec. Calculate the distance travelled by X
from that instant of time until it comes to rest. (IIT 1994)
310 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Fig. 4.152a Fig. 4.152b

Solution: Equation of motion of block X along the plane is given by
T – mg sin  = ma (i) (see Fig 4.152b)
1
Torque  = I = MR2; M = mass of the drum and R is its radius
2
1 a
Further T · R = MR2 ·
2 R
2T
a = (ii)
M
On putting the value of a in the first equation, we have
2T
T – mg sin  = m ·
M
m g sin
T =
2m
1
M
On substituting the values of various terms we have
0.5 9.8 0.5
T = = 4.9 N
2 0.5
1
2
(ii) The block will stop when the kinetic energy of drum and mass is
converted in gravitational potential energy of the block. Therefore
1 2 1 s
I + mv 2 = mg · ; s is the distance moved by the block.
2 2 2
1 1 1 mgs
MR2 2 + mR22 =
2 2 2 2
1 2 2 M mgs
or R m =
2 2 2
M 2m 2 2
or s= R
2mg
On putting the values we have
2
2 2 0.5 0.2 102
s= = 1.224 m
2 0.5 9.8
COLLISION AND RIGID BODY ROTATION 311
4.191. A rectangular rigid fixed block has a long horizontal edge. A solid
homogenous cylinder of radius r is placed horizontally at rest with its
length parallel to the edge such that the axis of the cylinder and the edge
of the block are in the same vertical plane. There is a sufficient friction
present at the edge so that a very small displacement causes the cylinder
to roll off the edge without slipping. Determine (a) the angle  through
which the cylinder rotates before it leave contact with the edge (b) the
speed of the centre of mass of the cylinder before leaving contact with
the edge and (c) the ratio of translational to rotational kinetic energies of
the cylinder when its centre of mass is in horizontal line with the edge.
(IIT 1995)
Solution: When the cylinder rotates through an angle  the loss in potential
energy is equal to mgr (1 – cos ) and this will turn into kinetic energy,
hence
1 1
mgr (1 – cos ) = mv 2 + I2 (see Fig. 4.153)
2 2
1
Further I = mr 2 and v = r
2
3
 mgr (1 – cos ) = mv 2
4
3 2
or v = gr (1 – cos )
4
For circular motion of cylinder about the edge we have
mv 2
mg cos  – R = ; R = reaction force
r
When the cylinder will leave the contact R = 0
v2
 g cos  =
r
3
or · gr cos  = gr (1 – cos )
4
4
or cos  =
7
4
(a) or  = cos–1
7
4
(b) v = gr Fig. 4.153
7
1 2 1 mgr
(c) E1 = rotational kinetic energy = I + mv 2 =
2 4 7
1
Further mgr = mgr + Translational kinetic energy E2
7
312 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

6
 E2 = mgr
7
E2
 =6
E1
4.192. A solid sphere of mass m and radius r, rotating with an angular
velocity 0 is placed on a rough inclined plane as shown in Fig. 4.154.
The ball moves up the plane. Assuming the coefficient of friction between
the sphere and plane as  discuss the motion of the ball and calculate the
time at which the ball starts rolling up the plane without slip.

Fig. 4.154

Solution: The slipping will happen when v = r

For linear motion we have
 mg cos  – mg sin  = ma; a = acceleration
or g cos  – g sin  = a
For rotational motion we have
2
mgr cos  = mr 2 · 
5
2
or r = g cos 
5
now v = at and  = 0 – t
2r 2 r 0
 g cos  = (0 – ) = g cos g sin
5t 5 t
2 0r
or t =
g 7 cos 2sin
2 0r
v = at = (g cos  – g sin ) ×
g 7 cos 2sin
2 0r cos sin
=
7 cos 2sin
 5
FLUID PRESSURE AND BUOYANCY

5.1. A cubical block of wood 10 cm along each side floats at the interface
between an oil and water with its lower surface 2 cm below the interface.
The heights of the oil and water columns
are 10 cm each. The density of oil is
0.8 gm/cm3 and the density of water is
1 gm/cm3. Find (i) the mass of the block,
and (ii) the pressure at the lower surface 8 cm oil
of the block.
2 cm
Solution:
(i) In Fig. 5.1, water

mg = 100 × 8 × 0.8 × g
+ 100 × 2 × 1 × g Fig. 5.1

or m = 640 + 200 = 840 g

(ii) Total pressure at the lower surface = 10 × 980 × 0.8 + 2 × 980 × 1
= 980 × 10 = 9800 dyne/cm2
5.2. A solid sphere of density  and volume V floats at the interface of
two liquids (Fig. 5.2). The liquids are immiscible and have densities 1
and 2, 1 <  < 2.
What fraction of the volume of the sphere will lie in the two liquids ?
Solution: Let v1 and v2 be the volumes of the portions of sphere lying in
the liquids of densities 1 and 2 respectively. Then V = v1 + v2.
In the condition of equilibrium, we have
(v1 + v2) = v11 + v22
or v1 ( – 1) = v2 (2 – )
Further v1 + v2 = V
or v1 ( – 1) = (V – v1) (2 – )
1

or v1 ( – 1 + 2 – ) = V (2 – )
2

V 2
or v1 =
2 1 Fig. 5.2
314 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

V 1
Similarly v2 =
2 1

v1
Fraction of volume lying in the liquid of density 1 = = 2

V 2 1
v
Fraction of volume lying in the liquid of density 2 = 2 = 1

V 2 1

5.3. A tube floats vertically in water having density of 1 g/cm3 such that 4
cm of the tube lies above the surface (see Fig. 5.3). What will be the length
of the tube if it is filled completely with a liquid of density
0.9 g/cm3.
h = 4 cm
Solution: Let l be the length of the tube
and A its area of cross-section. On
equalizing the pressure at the bottom of
the tube, we have
l × 0.9 × A × g = (l – 4) × 1 × A × g
(All in the C.G.S. system.)
or 0.9l = l – 4
or 4 = 0.1l
or l = 40 cm Fig. 5.3
5.4. Water is filled to a height H behind a width b of a dam. Determine the
resultant force on it.
Solution: Pressure P at a depth y is given by
P = g [H – y];  = density of water
Consider a layer of thickness dy at a height
y above the bottom.
dF = P · bdy = gb [H – y] dy (see Fig. 5.4)
F H
 dF =  gb  H  y dy
0 0
Fig. 5.4
H2 1
= gb H 2 = gbH2
2 2
5.5. A container full of water has a base area of
a1 = 20 cm2 and top area as a2 = 10 cm2, height
25 cm contains 2 litre of water (see Fig. 5.5).
Calculate the force at the base of the container.
Atmospheric pressure = 105 N/m2.
Solution: Net force at the base is given by
F = Pa2 + mg
On putting the values we have Fig. 5.5
FLUID PRESSURE AND BUOYANCY 315
F = 105 × 10 × 10–4 + 20 × 10–4 × 0.25 × 1000 × 9.8
= 100 + 4.9 = 104.9 N
5.6. A tank is filled with a heterogeneous liquid whose density varies with
y
depth y via relation  = 0 . Calcualte the total pressure at a distance y
k
below the surface of the liquid. Atmospheric pressure is P0.
Solution: Consider a thin layer of width dx at a depth x. Density at this
x
depth = 0
k
 xdxg
Pressure dp = 0
k
Net pressure at a depth y due to liquid = P = dp
y g 0 g 0y2
=  0 k
· xdx =
2k
2
0 gy
Total pressure = P0 +
2k
5.7. A hollow metallic sphere of inner and outer radii as 3 cm and 5 cm
respectively floats in water of density  = 103 kg/m3 with 50% of its
volume inside water. Calculate the density of the material of the sphere.
Solution: In equilibrium we have
4 4
 [53 – 33] × 10–6 · g = 0.5 ×  · 53 × 10–6 × 103 × g;
3 3
 = density of the material of the sphere.
(125 – 27) = 62.5 × 1000
62.5 1000
= = 637.75 kg/m3
98
5.8. A jeweller prepares an ornament of weight 57.9 gm in air with a
claim that he has used only 3 gm of copper. In view of the colour of the
ornament his statement seems to be doubtful. In order to know the exact
amount of copper the ornament was weighed in water and it was found
to have a weight of 54.5 gm. Assuming the specific gravity of the gold and
copper as 19.3 and 8.9 respectively. Calculate the amount of copper.
Solution: Let x be the mass of copper in the ornament then
57.9 x x
+ = 57.9 – 54.5 = 3.4
19.3 8.9
1 1
or 3 + x = 3.4
8.9 19.3
0.4 8.9 19.3
or x = = 6.6 gm
10.4
316 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

5.9. A cubical block of ice having a piece of metal of mass 100 gm at its
top floats in water. Calculate the minimum edge of the block so that it
does not sink in water, specific gravity of ice = 0.9.
Solution: 100 × 980 + L3 × 0.9 × 980 = L3 × 1 × 980; L = length of the block
in cm.
0.1 L = 100
3

L3 = 1000
L = 10 cm
5.10. A piece of lead is fastened underneath of a wooden block of mass
184 gm. For what value of the mass of lead piece the wooden block just
float in water? Specific gravity of wood = 0.8 and specific gravity of
lead = 11.3.
Solution:
184 m
184 × 980 + m × 980 = × 1 × 980 + × 1 × 980;
0.8 11.3
m = mass of lead piece.
1 1
m 1 = 184 1 = 46
11.3 8
10.3m
= 46
11.3
46 11.3
m = = 50.47 gm
10.3
5.11. An iceberg floats in sea water of density  = 1.03 × 103 kg/m3. What
percentage of its total volume is above the surface of water? Density of
ice  = 0.92 × 103 kg/m 3.
Solution: In the conditions of equilibrium, we have
Vg = V g ; V = total volume of ice
V = volume of ice inside water
V
1– = 1–
V
V V
× 100 = × 100
V
1.03 0.92
= × 100
1.03
= 10.68%
5.12. A piece of ice is floating in water. What will happen to the level of
water when all the ice melts? What will happen if the beaker is filled not
with water but with liquid (a) denser than water (b) lighter than water.
(IIT 1974, 1977; Roorkee 1976)
FLUID PRESSURE AND BUOYANCY 317
Solution: Let M mass of ice is floating in a liquid of density  then in
equilibrium
Mg = VLg ;  is the density of liquid
VL = volume of liquid displaced
M
 VL =
If the ice melts to form water then
M
VW = ; VW = volume of water
 = density of water
Here  =  hence VL = VW i.e. under this condition the level of water
will be unchanged.
(a) If  >  then VW > VL
Due to this the level of liquid in the beaker will rise
(b) If  <  then VL > VW
Due to this the level of liquid in the beaker will fall.
5.13. A cubical block of iron 5 cm on each side is floating on mercury in a
vessel. (a) What is the height of the block above mercury level? (b) Water
is poured into the vessel so that it just covers the iron block. What is the
height of water column? Relative density of mercury = 13.6 and relative
density of iron = 7.2. (IIT 1973)
Solution: Let l be the length of the iron cube
(a) l 3g = (l – h) l 2g (see Fig. 5.6a & 5.6b)
l h h h
= =1–
l l
h=l 1

On substituting the value we have Fig. 5.6a

7.2 5 6.4
h=5 1 = = 2.35 h1
13.6 13.6
(b) l 3g = l 2h1wg + l 2 (l – h1) g
l = h1 w + l – h1
h1 ( – w) = l ( – )
Fig. 5.6b
l
 h1 =
w

On substituting the values we have

5 13.6 7.2
h1 = = 2.54 cm
13.6 1
318 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

5.14. A piece of metal of mass 210 gm

and density 7 × 103 kg/m3 is placed in a
glass filled with water. The glass is
kept in a vacuum chamber (Fig. 5.7).
Calculate the normal force exerted by the
bottom of the glass on the metal. Take
g = 10 m/sec2.
Solution: Volume V of the metal
210 10 3
= = 3 × 10–5 m3 Fig. 5.7
7 103
Upward thrust = 3 × 10 × 10 × 10 = 0.3 N
–5 3

Weight of metal = 210 × 10–3 × 10 = 2.1 N

Normal force = 2.1 – 0.3 = 1.8 N
5.15. To what height should a cylindrical vessel is filled with a
homogeneous liquid to make the force, with which the liquid presses
on the side of the vessel equal to the force exerted by the liquid on the
bottom of the vessel. (IIT 1976)
Solution: Let r be the radius of the cylinder and h be the height of the
liquid (See Fig. 5.8).
Mass of the liquid in the cylinder = r 2h;
 = density of the liquid.
Weight of the liquid = r 2hg
1
Mean pressure on the wall = gh
2
1
Force on the wall = gh × 2rhh = rgh2
2
On equalising the two forces we have
r2hg = rgh Fig. 5.8
or r =h
i.e. the liquid should be filled upto a height equal to the radius of the
cylinder.
5.16. A vertical spring of force constant K = 60 N/m is fixed between the
bottom of a vessel and the underneath of a cubical block of wood of edge
4 cm (see Fig. 5.9). The vessel is filled with water and the wooden block
floats in it. Calculate the maximum weight that can be put on
the wooden block without wetting it. Density of wood = 800 kg/m3 and
g = 10 m/sec2.
Solution: Let h be the height of block inside water then
4 × 4 × 4 × 0.8 × 980 = 4 × 4 × h × 1 × 980
 h = 3.2 cm
FLUID PRESSURE AND BUOYANCY 319
Height of the block outside water = 0.8 cm
Upward thrust = 64 × 10–6 × 1000 × 10
= 0.64 N
Force due to spring = 0.8 × 10–2 × 60
= 0.48 N
Weight of the wooden block = 64 × 10–6 × 800 × 10
= 0.512 N Fig. 5.9
Weight W placed = 0.64 + 0.48 – 0.512 = 0.608 N
5.17. A piece of metal floats on mercury. The coefficient of volume
expansion of the metal and mercury are 1 and 2 respectively. If the
temperature of both mercury and metal are increased by an amount
T, by what factor the fraction of the volume of metal submerged in
mercury changes. (IIT 1991)
Solution: In equilibrium we have
Vg = V  g ; V = volume of metal
 = density of metal
V = volume of metal inside mercury
 = density of mercury
V
f= =
V
On increasing the temperature the fraction f changes due to change
of the two densities.

f =
f f f f
 Change = = = –1
f f f

= · –1

1   2 T
= –1
1   1 T
  2  1  T
=
1  1 T
5.18. A body floating in water has volumes v1, v2, v3 above the surface
where the densities of the surrounding air are 1, 2 and 3. Show that
2 3 3 1 1 2
+ + =0
v1 v2 v3
320 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution: Let the body be allowed to float in water such that a volume v1 is
above the surface of water and let the density of the surrounding air be 1.
The weight of the body is given by
W = (v – v1) m + v1 g1
Here m is the weight per unit volume of the water displaced and v is the
volume of the body
W vm
or + m – 1g = 0 (i)
v1
We can have similar equations when the volumes v2 and v3 of the body
are above water and the densities of the surrounding air are 2 and 3
respectively.
W vm
+ m – 2g = 0 (ii)
v2
W vm
and + m – 3g = 0 (iii)
v3
On multiplying equation (i) by (2 – 3), equation (ii) by (3 – 1) and
equation (iii) by (1 – 2) and then adding the three, we get

(W – vm) 2 3 3 1 1 2
+ m (2 – 3 + 3 – 1 + 1 – 2)
v1 v2 v3
– g [1 (2 – 3) + 2 (3 – 1) + 3 (1 – 2)] = 0

2 3 3 1 1 2
or (W – vm) 0
v1 v2 v3
Since W – vm  0,
2
3
+ 3 1
+ 1 2
=0
v1 v2 v3
5.19. Three liquids whose densities are in AP series are filled in a
semicircular tube whose bounding diameter is horizontal. Show that
the depth ON of one of the common surfaces is double that of OM (see
Fig. 5.10).
Solution: Let the densities of the liquid in the
parts AE, EF and FB be , ( + ) and ( – )
respectively. The depth of the common
surfaces F and E are OM and ON respectively.
On equating the pressure at O we have, Fig. 5.10

OM · g ( – ) + O M · g ( + ) = O N · g ( + ) + ON · g · 
or OM ( – ) + (r – OM) ( + ) = (r – ON) ( + ) + ON
here r = radius of the tube
or OM ( –  –  – ) = ON ( –  – )
or 2 OM = ON
FLUID PRESSURE AND BUOYANCY 321
5.20. A tube in the form of a parabola held with its vertex downwards and
axis vertical is filled with liquids of densities 1 and 2 as shown in Fig.
5.11. If the distances of the free surfaces of the liquids from the focus are
l1 and l2 respectively, calculate the distance of their common surface from
the focus of the parabola.
Solution: In Fig. 5.11, S and O represent focus and the vertex of the
parabola.
Here, l2 = SC = C C + a
l = SB = B B + a
and l1 = AS = A A + a
On equating the pressure at O, we have
1 · g · A A = 1 g B B = 2 CC BB
or 1 AA BB = 2 CC BB
Fig. 5.11
or 1 (l1 – l) = 2 (l2 – l)
or (1l1 – 2l2) = l (1 – 2)
l
1 1 2 2 l
or l =
1 2

5.21. A hollow cone whose axis is vertical and base downwards is filled
with equal volumes of two liquids whose densities are in the ratio 3:1.
 1

Show that the thrust on the base is  3  4 3  times as much as it is when
 
the vessel is filled with the higher liquid.
Solution: In Fig. 5.12 let AO = h1 and OF = r1. The volume of the portion
AEF = (1/2) × volume of the cone ABC, i.e.,
1 1 1
 h2 tan2  · h1 = · h2 tan2  · h;
3 1 2 3
here h = AD and DAC = 
1
 1 3
or h1 = h  
2
Total pressure of the liquid at the base is
given by Fig. 5.12

P = ( g · AO + 3  g · OD) h2 tan2 

  
1 1 
=  gh3  1  3  1  1   tan2 
 3  
2  23 
322 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

 2
or P = gh3 3  1  tan2 
 
 23 
If the cone is filled by a liquid of density  alone then the pressure at
the base is given by
P = gh · h tan 
2 2

P  2

 = 3  2 3 
P  
P  1

or = 3  43 
P  
5.22. Two identical cylindrical vessels with their base at the same level
each contain a liquid of density . The area of either base is A, but in one
vessel the liquid height is h1 and in the other h2. Find the work done by
gravity in equalizing the levels when the two vessels are connected.
Solution: Let us assume that h1> h2. For the purpose of equalizing the
levels let the liquid from the height h1 come down through a distance x.
In the other vessel the liquid column will go up through the same
distance.
Thus we have h1 – x = h2 + x
h1 h2
or =x
2
Work done
h h2 h h2
= weight of the liquid column of height 1 × 1
2 2
h1 h2 h1 h2 1
= A g = A g (h1 – h2)2
2 2 4
5.23. A body floats in a liquid of specific gravity  with as much of its
volume out of the liquid as would be immersed in a second liquid of
specific graity . If it floated in that liquid show that the specific gravity
of the body is / .
Solution: Let V be the volume and  be the specific gravity of the body
when it floats in the first liquid of specific gravity . Let v1 be the volume
of the body outside the liquid. In equilibrium
V  g = (V – v1)  g
When the body floats in the second liquid,
V  g = v1 g
 
Now V = V 1  or   1   =  or  =
  
FLUID PRESSURE AND BUOYANCY 323
5.24. A uniform bore U tube AOB contains a column of mercury. In the
arm AO water has been poured until it stands at a height h = 44.8 cm
above the mercury level. The remaining space in the two arms of the tube
is filled with kerosene. Calculate the difference in the level of the mercury
column in the two arms, given the density of mercury = 13.6 g/cm3 and
density of kerosene = 0.8 g/cm3.
Solution: Let h1 and h3 respectively be the lengths
of mercury and kerosene columns in the arm
containing water and h 2 be the length of the
mercury column in the other arm. Now pressure at
C = pressure at D (see Fig. 5.13).
Now h1 × 13.6 × g + h × 1 × g + h3 × 0.8 × g
= h2 × 13.6 × g + (h1 + h + h3 – h2) × 0.8 × g
or h + 0.8h3
= (h2 – h1) × 13.6 + 0.8h3 + 0.8h – (h2 – h1) × 0.8
or 0.2h= (h2 – h1) [13.6 – 0.8]
0.2 h 0.2 44.8 Fig. 5.13
or h2 – h1 = = = 0.7 cm
12.8 12.8
5.25. A hollow cylinder of radius r and height h is half filled with liquid
of density 1 and the remaining half with a liquid of density 2 (1> 2).
Find the ratio of the pressure on the base and the total pressure on the
curved surface.
Solution: Pressure on the base is given by
h h
P = r2 1 g 2 g (see Fig. 5.14)
2 2
r 2 gh
= (1 + 2)
2
Pressure on the curved surface of the lower
half is given by
h h Fig. 5.14
P1 = rh 2 g 1g
2 4
 h
Pressure on the curved surface of the upper half P2 = rh  g 2 · 
 4
 h 3h 
Net pressure P3 = P1 + P2 = rh 1 g  2 g
 4 4 
rh 2 g
= [1 + 32]
4
324 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

P r 2 gh  1  2   4
 =
P3 2 r h 2 g ·  1  32 
2 r  1  2 
=
h  1  32 
5.26. A solid sphere of radius r floats just immersed in three liquids whose
densities are , 2 and 3. The thickness of each of the two upper liquids
is equal to r/2. Calculate the density of the sphere.
Solution:
Volume of segment AEF of the sphere
r4 1r
= r
4 32
3
5r
=
24
r
Volume of segment GCH = r 2 r
3
2 r 3 Fig. 5.15
= (see Fig. 5.15)
3
4 r3 5 r3 2 r3
Volume of segment EFHG = – –
3 24 3
3
11 r
=
24
In equilibrium, we have
4 5 r3 11  r 3 2 r3
r 3g = g + · 2 · g + · 3g
3 24 24 3
4 8
 =
3 3
 = 2
5.27. A cylinder of radius r, density 2 and
height h floats in two immersible liquids of
densities  and 3 by keeping its axis vertical.
The depth of the upper liquid is equal to h.
Calculate the ratio of the pressure at the two
ends of the cylinder.
Solution: EH = BD = h
Let BH = x, BE = h – x
In the conditions of equilibrium
r2h · 2· g = r2 (h – x)  · g +  r2 3 xg
(see Fig. 5.16) Fig. 5.16
FLUID PRESSURE AND BUOYANCY 325
2h = (h – x) + 3x
h
or x =
2
h
P1 = pressure at the base AB = r2 · g
2
P2 = pressure at the lower base CD
h 5
= r 2 h g 3 g = r 2h g
2 2
P1 1
 =
P2 5
5.28. A cylinder of density  and height h floats with its axis vertical in a
liquid of density 1; if now the density of the air increases from 2 to 3
find by much the cylinder will rise or sink.
Solution: Let x be the length of cylinder inside the liquid then we have
r 2hg =  r 2 x1 g +  r 2 (h – x) 2 g ; r = radius of the cylinder
2 = density of the surrounding
air
or h [ – 2] = x (1 – 2)
On changing the density of surrounding air from 2 to 3 we have a
similar equation.
 r 2hg =  r 2 x 1g + r 2 (h – x )3 g ; x is length of cylinder inside
the liquid
or h [ – 3] = x (1 – 3)
2 3 h 1 3 2
Now x – x = h =
1 2 1 3 1 2 1 3

5.29. A, B & C are three balls of equal weight W. A balances B and C when
all are suspended in a liquid of density 1; B balances C and A in a liquid
of density 2; C balances A and B in a liquid of density 3. Find the specific
gravity of A, B & C.
Solution:
W W W
W · 1 = W · 1 + W · 1 ; d 1 , d 2 & d 3 are the
d1 d2 d3
specific gravity of
the three balls.
1 1 1 1
or – + + = (i)
d1 d2 d3 1
326 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

In liquids of densities 2 and 3 we have

W W W
W 2 = W 2 + W 2
d2 d1 d3
W W W
and W 3 = W 3 + W 3
d3 d1 d2
From these two relations we have
1 1 1 1
– + = (ii)
d1 d2 d3 2
1 1 1 1
and + – = (iii)
d1 d2 d3 3

On adding equations (ii) & (iii) we have

2 2 3
=
d1 2 3

2 2 3
or d1 =
2 3

2 1 3 2 1 2
On similar lines d2 = and d3 =
1 3 1 2

5.30. A hollow and weightless cone of height h and semi-vertical angle 

filled with water is suspended from a point B as shown in the Fig. 5.17.
Calculate the pressure on the base.
Solution: A vertical through B will pass
through centre of gravity of the cone G.
h
G divides OD such that OG =
4
3h
and GD =
4
Let BC makes an angle  with the
vertical then
h h 1
tan  = = = ;
4r 4h tan 4 tan
Fig. 5.17
 = semi-vertical angle of the cone.
4tan 4sin
cos  = =
1 16 tan2 1 15 sin 2
Pressure on the base =  g r 2 · BM ;  = density of water
=  g  r 2 r cos 
FLUID PRESSURE AND BUOYANCY 327
4sin
=   g r3 ·
1 15 sin 2
4  g h 3 tan3  · sin 
=
1  15 sin 2 
5.31. A hollow weightless hemisphere with a plane base is filled with water
and hung up by means of a string, one end of which is attached to a point
of the rim of its base. Find the inclination to the horizontal of the resultant
thrust on its curved surface.
Solution: Let r be the radius of the hemisphere. In view of Fig. 5.18
3r
OG =
8
In OAG
3
cot  =
8
8 3
 sin  = and cos  =
73 73
8r
O A = h = r sin  =
73
Pressure on plane circular base
is given by Fig. 5.18
8r
P = r 2 · g
73
64
PX = P sin  =  r 2 r g
73
24
PY = P cos  = r 2 · r g
73
2
Weight of the liquid in the hemisphere  r 3g
3
2
Resultant thrust on the curved surfaces =  r 3g
3
2
Further PX = RX and RY – PY =  r 3g
3
24 2
 RY =  r  g +  r g
3 3
73 3
218
=  r 3g
219
3
R 218 r g 73 109
tan  = Y = 3 =
RX 219 64 r g 96
109
 = tan–1
96
328 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

5.32. W1 and W2 are the weight of a body in air and water respectively.
If 0 be the specific gravity of air, calculate the weight of the body in
vacuum.
Solution: Let W be the required weight then the volume of the body
W
=
·
where  is the specific gravity of vacuum and  is weight of unit volume.
W
Apparent weight in air W1 = W – · (i)
 0
W
Apparent weight W2 in water = W – (ii)

W 1 0
Now W1 – W2 = (iii)

W W1 W2
or = (iv)
1 0
W
On substituting the value of in equation (i) we have
e

0
W1 = W – (W1 – W2)
1 0

 W = W1 + 0
(W1 – W2)
1 0

5.33. A body of specific gravity  when weighed against weight of specific

gravity  in water, the whole balance being immersed appears to have a
weight W, show that the true weight is
1
· ·W
1
Solution: Let X be the actual weight of the body
Actual weight of the body – weight of water displaced = actual weight
of the weights – weight of water displaced.
X W
X– ·=W– ·  ;  = weight of unit volume

1 1
X 1 =W 1

1
X=W· ·
1
5.34. A rod of length 6 m has a mass of 12 kg. It is hinged at one end at a
distance of 3 m below the water surface. (i) What weight must be attached
to the other end of the rod so that 5 m of the rod is submerged? (ii) Find
FLUID PRESSURE AND BUOYANCY 329
the magnitude and the direction of the force exerted by the hinge on the
rod. The specific gravity of the material of the rod = 0.5. (IIT 1976)
Solution: Let PQ be the rod of length 6 m. PC is the length of the rod
submered under water (PC = 5 m). The buoyancy force F acts at G such
that P G = 2.5 m. The weight W of the rod acts at G such that PG = 3 m. Let
us suppose that a mass m is attached at the end Q. Then
PG · W + PQ · mg = F · P G (see Fig. 5.19).
weight in air 10 g
Weight of the part PC = Force F = = = 20g
specific gravity 0.5
3 × 12g + 6 × mg = 20g × 2.5
or 6m = 50 – 36 = 14
7
or m = kg
3
Let R be the reaction at the
hinge.
Then R + F = mg + W
 R = mg + W – F
7
= g + 12 g – 20 g
3
43 60 g Fig. 5.19
=
3
17 g
=– = – 55.5 N
3
Thus force exerted by the hinge = 55.5 N
5.35. A uniform rod of length 2a can turn freely about one end which is
fixed at a height h above the surface of a liquid. In the conditions of
equilibrium the rod makes an angle  to the vertical. Show that
h
cos  =
2a
where  and  represent the densities
of the rod and liquid respectively.
Solution: Apart from the reaction
force at Q there are two forces acting
on the rod (see Fig. 5.20).
(i) Weight W = 2a Ag  acting
downward; A = area of
Fig. 5.20
cross-section of the rod.
(ii) Buoyancy force F on the portion PC lying in the liquid of density
 = PC · Ag = (2a – h sec ) A · g · 
330 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

On taking moment about the point Q, we have

W · QG sin  = F · Q G sin 
or W · QG = F · Q G
1
2a A g  = (2a – h sec ) A g  · (2a + h sec )
2
or 4a2  = (4a2 – h2 sec2 ) 
or h2 sec2  = 4a2 ( – )
h
or cos  =
2a
5.36. A uniform rod of length 2a and density  is moveable in a vertical
plane about one end which is fixed in a liquid of density at a depth 2h
below the free surface. A liquid of lower density  is added on the top of
the first liquid. If in the oblique position of equilibrium the rod is
just covered by the liquid, show that its inclination to the vertical is
h
cos–1 /
a
Solution: In view of Fig. 5.21 apart
from the reaction force R at P there
are three other forces acting on the
rod.
(i) Weight W = 2a A  g acting
downward; A = area of
Fig. 5.21
cross-section of the rod.
(ii) Buoyancy force F1 acts upward on the portion PC lying in the
liquid of density = PC · Ag = 2h sec  g A
(iii) Buoyancy force F2 acting upward on the portion CQ of the rod
lying in the liquid of density  = CQ A g  = (2a – 2 h sec ) A g .
On taking the moment about P we have
W · PG sin  = F1 · PG1 sin  + F2 · PG2 sin 
or W · PG = F1 · PG1 + F2 · PG2
2a2 = 2 h2 sec2  · + (2a2 – 2h2 sec2 ) 
or a2 ( – ) = h2 sec2  ( – )
2
h
or cos2  =
a2
h
 = cos–1
a
FLUID PRESSURE AND BUOYANCY 331
5.37. A thin uniform rod of weight W has a particle of mass m attached to
one end. It is floating in an inclined position in water with this end
mg
immersed. Show that the length of the rod above water is times
mg W
W2
its whole length and that the specific gravity of the rod is 2 .
mg W
Solution: There are three forces acting on the rod :
(i) Weight W of the rod acting downward.
(ii) Buoyancy force F acting on the
portion PC lying in the liquid.
(iii) Weight mg acting downward.
On taking the moment about P
(see Fig. 5.22), we have
W · PG sin  = F · P G sin 
or W · PG = F · P G Fig. 5.22
In equilibrium we have F = W + mg
 W · PG = (W + mg) P G
W PC 2a  l
or = = ; 2a = whole length of the rod and l
W mg 2a 2a
is the part of the length of the rod outside the liquid.
W
 2a – 2a =l
W mg
W
or 2a =l
W mg
Let us assume that  be the specific gravity of rod. The weight of
the rod is given by W = 2a A  g
F = (2a – l ) A × 1 × g
2a mg
= 2a Ag
W mg
2a W
F= Ag = W + mg
W mg
or 2a A Wg = (W + mg)2
W2 W
or = (W + mg)2; on puting 2a Ag =

W2
or = 2
W mg
332 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

5.38. A wooden plank of length 1 m and uniform cross-section is hinged

at one end to the bottom of a tank. The tank is filled with water upto a
height of 0.5 m. The specific gravity of the plank is 0.5. Find the angle 
that the plank makes with the vertical in the equilibrium position (exclude
the case  = 0). (IIT 1984)
Solution: Let A be the area of cross-section of the plank. In view of
Fig. 5.23, apart from the reaction force at P there are two forces acting on
the rod.
Q

0.5m

P
Fig. 5.23
(i) Weight W of the rod = 1 × A × 0.5 × g acting downward.
(ii) Buoyancy force F acting on the rod PC = A × 0.5 sec  × 1 × g acting
upward. On taking the moment about the point P we have
W · PG sin  = F · P G sin 
or W · PG = F · P G
0.5 sec
or A × 0.5 × g × 0.5 = 0.5 Ag sec  ×
2
or 2 = sec2 
1
or cos2  =
2
1
or cos  =
2
  = 45°
 6
ELASTICITY

6.1. A uniform ring of radius r1 = 50 cm of a wire of area of cross-section

a = 2 mm2 is tightly fitted on a circular steel rod of radius r2 = 50.15 cm.
Calculate the force which will cause the ring to expand. The Young’s
modulus of the material of the wire = 12 × 103 kgf/mm2.
Force F
Solution: Stress = =
area a
change in length 2  r2  r1 
Strain = =
original length 2  r1
stress F · r1
Y = =
strain a · r2  r1 
On putting the values of various terms, we have
r2 r1 12 103 2 0.15
F=Y·a· = = 72 kgf
r1 50
6.2. A steel rod of length l = 100 m is suspended from the top of a tower
through one of its ends. Calculate:
(i) the elongation of the rod by virtue of its own weight, and
(ii) the relative increment of its volume.
Young’s modulus of steel = 20 × 1010 N/m2
Density of steel = 7.8 × 103 kg/m3 and Poisson’s ratio = 0.29
Solution:
stress F ·l
(i) Young’s modulus Y = = ; F = force = a · l ·  · g
strain a · l
a = area of cross-section of the rod
 = density of the material (steel)
l = elongation
al g l 1 g l2
l = · =
aY 2 2 Y
l
The entire mass of the rod is concentrated at a length .
2
334 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

On substituting the values of various terms, we have

1 7.8 103 9.8 104
l = ×
2 20 1010
= 3.9 × 4.9 × 10–4 m
= 0.39 × 4.9 mm
= 1.9 mm
(ii) The initial volume of the rod, V1 =  r2l ; r is the radius of the rod.
Let us assume that the radius of the wire is reduced by an amount
r and increases the length by l. The new volume of the rod
V2 =  (r – r)2 (l + l)
= (r 2 – 2r r + r 2) (l + l)
 r 2 l –  2r rl + r 2 l
Change in volume V = V2 – V1 =  r 2 l – 2 rl r
V l r
= –2
V1 l r
per unit decrease of diameter
Poisson’s ratio is defined as  =
per unit increase of length
r /r
=
l /l
V l l
 = – 2
V1 l l
l
= (1 – 2)
l
3.9 4.9 10 4
= (1 – 2 × 0.29) ×
102
= 0.42 × 3.9 × 4.9 × 10 = 8.026 × 10–6
–6

6.3. A homogeneous plank of length L and surface area A moves over a

horizontal frictionless surface under the action of a constant force F
distributed uniformly on the end. Assuming the Young’s modulus of
the material of the plant as Y determine the strain in the direction of the
force.
L
Solution: Consider an element of F x dx
O O
length dx at a distance x from O (see
Fig. 6.1). Fig. 6.1
Tension T at a distance x is given by
F T
= ; at the end O tension is F and at O tension is zero.
o.
L L x
F
(L – x) = T
L
ELASTICITY 335

T F x
Strain on the element = = 1
AY AY L
F x
Change in the length of the element l = 1 dx
AY L
L F L x
Total change in length l =  0 l = 
AY 0 
1   dx
L
FL
=
2 AY
l F
 Strain = =
L 2 AY
6.4. A uniform rod of length l and mass m is allowed to rotate in a
horizontal plane about a vertical axis O O passing through one of its
ends with an angular velocity . (i) Derive an expression for the tension
in the rod in terms of distance x measured from the axis of rotation.
(ii) If the rod is made of copper then find out the elongation in it. l = 5 m,
density of copper 8.9 × 103 kg/m3,  = 30 rad/s, and Young’s modulus of
copper = 13 × 1010 N/m2.
Solution:
(i) Let A be the area of cross-section of the rod. Consider an element
of length dr lying at a distance r from the axis of rotation O O (see
Fig. 6.2). The tension is given by
m
dT = dr · r · 2 O
l
m 2 l dr
or T = dT =
l
 x
rdr
r
1 m 2 2 2
= [l – x ]
2 l
1 x2 O
= m2l 1 2 Fig. 6.2
2 l
stress dT r
(ii) Young’s modulus Y = =
strain A dl
On substituting the value of dT from the above, we have
2
m rdr
Y = r
l Adl
m 2r 2 dr
or dl =
AlY
m 2 l 1 m 2l 3
Elongation of the rod = l = dl =
AlY  0
r 2 dr =
3 A lY
336 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Now l A = m where  is the density of the rod.

2 3
1 l
l =
3 Y
On substituting the values of the various terms, we have
3 2 3
1 8.9 10 30 5
l = × 10
3 13 10
1 8.9 9 125
= × × 10–5
3 13
= 2.57 mm
6.5. A uniform copper rod of length l = 80 cm is allowed to rotate in a
horizontal plane about a vertical axis O O passing through its centre.
Calculate the frequency of rotation per sec at which the rod ruptures.
The ultimate strength of copper is 3000 kgf/cm 2 and its density is
8.9 g/cm3.
Solution: Consider an element of length dx at a distance x from the axis
of rotation (see Fig. 6.3). O
Total mass of the rod = m
dx
m
Mass per unit length of rod =
l x
m
Tension dT = dx · x2
l
m 2 l /2 ml 2 O
T = dT =
l  0
xdx =
8
Fig. 6.3
Now m = A l  where A is the area of cross-section of the rod and  its
density.
A l2 2
Al 2 4 2n2
T= = where
e n is the frequency of rotation per
8 8
second.
1/2
8T 2T 1 T
or n = = × ; = m = ultimate strength
Al 2 4 2
A l A
2 1
n = m
×
l
2 3000 980 103 1
= ×
8.9 80
= 102.3 rps
= 102 rps
6.6. A lead ring of radius r = 11.5 cm rotates about a vertical axis
O O passing through its centre and perpendicular to the plane of the
ELASTICITY 337
ring (Fig. 6.4). Calculate the number of rotations per second at which the
ring breaks. The ultimate strength of lead is 150 kgf/cm2 and its density
is 11.3 g/cm3.
Solution: Consider a part of the ring subtending an angle  at the centre.
m
Mass of the element = × r  ; m = mass of the ring.
l
Let T be the tension on the ring. Of the two components only T sin
/2 is operational. The net force is (Fig. 6.4b)
 m
2T sin = T = r   r 2
2 l
2
m 2 2 m 2 2 mr
or T = r  = r  =
l 2 r 2
O

O

Fig. 6.4a Fig. 6.4b

Mass of the ring m = 2  r A  where A is the area of cross-section of

the wire.
2 r
T= A  r 2
2
T
= r2  4 2 n2 = m = ultimate strength
A
1
n= m
×
2 r
On substituting the values of various terms, we have
150 980 103 1
n= ×
11.3 2 11.5
1.5 98 1
= × 103 ×
11.3 23
= 49.95
= 50 rps
6.7. A stone of 0.5 kg mass is attached to one end of a 0.8 m long
aluminium wire of 0.7 mm diameter and suspended vertically. The stone
338 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

is now rotated in a horizontal plane at a rate such that the wire makes an
angle of 85° with the vertical. Find the increase in the length of the wire.
Young’s modulus of aluminium = 7 × 1010 N/m2, sin 85° = 0.9962 and
cos 85° = 0.0872. (Roorkee 1990)
Solution: On resolving the tension T in the two mutually perpendicular
directions we have
T cos  = mg (see Fig. 6.5)
and T sin  = mr2 ;
r = radius of the circular path.
T L
Now Y = ·
A L
TL
L = Fig. 6.5
AY
mg L
= 2 ; r0 = radius of the aluminium wire e
r0 Y cos
On putting the values of various terms we have
0.5 9.8 0.8
L = 2
3.14 0.35 10 3 7 1010 0.0872
= 1.668 × 10–3m
6.8. What is the maximum load that a steel wire of diameter 2 mm can
hold? The ultimate stress of steel 1.25 × 109 N/m2.
Solution: The Young’s modulus of the material of wire is given by
T L
Y=
A l
where T is the tension applied, A is the area of cross-section, l is the
increase in length and L is the original length.
Y = W L/l where W is the ultimate stress.
We can have another expression for Y when tension T has been
applied on a wire of diameter d.
4T L
Y=
d2 l
On dividing the two equations for Y, we have
W d2
1=
4T
W d2
or T=
4
On substituting the values of various terms, we have
1.25 109 3.14 22 10 6
T = = 1.25 × 3.14 × 103
4
= 3.924 × 103 N
ELASTICITY 339
6.9. A chandelier of mass 550 kg is attached to an aluminium rod with
an ultimate stress of 1.1 × 108 N/m2. What should be the cross-sectional
area of the rod for the safety factor to be 3? What is the strain in the rod?
Young’s modulus of aluminium = 7 × 1010 N/m2.
mg
Solution: Stress F1 =
A
ultimate stress F
Now safety factor n = =
admissible stress F1
F mg
 F1 = =
n A
mgn 550 9.8 3
or A = =
F 1.1 108
= 14.7 × 10 m2
–5

l F 1.1 108
Strain in the rod = = = = 5.2 × 10–4
L nY 3 7 1010
6.10. The longitudinal waves starting from a ship returns from the buttom
of the sea to the ship after 2.0 s. If the bulk modulus of water is 220 kg
mm–2 and the density of sea water 1.1 × 103 kg/m3, calculate the depth of
the sea.
B
Solution: Velocity of sound = v =
d
where B is the bulk modulus of elasticity and d is density.
220 9.8
v=10 6 1.1 103
= 1400 m/s
Depth of the sea = 1400 × 1 = 1400 m
6.11. A wire of density 9 g/cm3 is stretched between two clamps 100 cm
apart while being subjected to an extension if 0.05 cm. What is the lowest
frequency of transverse vibrations in the wire, assuming the Young’s
modulus of the material of wire to be 9 × 1011 dyne/cm2.
stress T /A
Solution: Young’s modulus = =
strain l/L
where T is the tension applied, A = area of cross-section of wire,
l = change of length and L = original length.
TL
Y =
Al
Yl T
or =
L A
340 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Yl T
or = where d is the density of the material of the wire..
Ld Ad
1 T 1 Yl
n = =
2 L l A d 2 L l L d
On substituting the values of the various terms, we have
1 9 1011 0.05
n=
2 100.05 100 9
1
= × 103 50
200.1
= 35.34 Hz
6.12. A copper wire of negligible mass, 1 m length and cross-sectional
area 10–6 m2 is kept on a smooth horizontal table with one end fixed. A
ball of mass 1 kg is attached to the other end. The wire and the ball are
rotating with an angular velocity of 20 rad/sec. If the elongation in the
wire is 10–3 m, obtain the Young’s modulus. If on increasing the angular
velocity to 100 rad/sec, the wire breaks down, obtain the breaking stress.
(Roorkee 1992)
Solution: Force developed in the wire due to rotation.
F = mr2
On putting the values we have
F = 1 × 1 × 202 = 400 N
400
Stress = = 4 × 108 N/m2
10 6
Strain = 10–3 m
stress 4 108
Young’s modulus Y = = = 4 × 1011 N/m2
strain 10 3
Breaking force F = mr 12
On putting the value we have
F = 1 × 1 × 1002 = 104 N
104
Breaking stress = = 1010 N/m2
10 6
6.13. A load of 31.4 kg is suspended from a wire of radius 10–3 m and
density 9 × 103 kg/m3. Calculate the change in temperature of the wire if
75% of the work done is converted into heat. The Young’s modulus
and specific heat of the material of the wires are 9.8 × 1010 N/m2 and
490 J/kg.K. respectively. (Roorkee 1993)
1
Solution: Work done W = Mg · l; l = increase in length.
2
ELASTICITY 341
Mg · L
Y = ; L = Length of the wire
r 2 · l
r = radius of the wire
1 M 2g 2 · L
W = ·
2 r 2 · Y
0.75 W = m · s ·  = ( r 2 L ) s ;  = density of the material
of the wire
2 2
0.75 W 0.75 M g L
 = =
2
r L s 2 r Y ·  r 2 L  s
2

0.75 M 2 g 2
=
2 2r 4 sY
On substituting the values we have
0.75 31.42 9.82
 = 4
2 3.142 10 3 9 103 490 9.8 1010
1
= C
120
6.14. A body of mass 3.14 kg is suspended from one end of a wire of length
10.0 cm. The radius of the wire is changing uniformly from
9.8 × 10–4 m at one end to 5 × 10–4 m at the other end. Find the change
in the length of the wire. What will be the change in the length if the
ends are interchanged? Young’s modulus of the material of the wire is
2 × 1011 N/m2. (Roorkee 1994)
r2 r1
Solution: tan  = (see Fig. 6.6)
L
r r  y
r = r1 + 2 1 · y
L
Stress on the wire at a depth y L
dy
Mg Mg r
= 2
= 2
r  r r 
 r1  2 1 · y 
 L  r1
Consider an element of length dy. r2
Stress Fig. 6.6
Change in the length of the element l = dy
Y
M g · dy
l = 2
 r r 
Y ·  r1  2 1 · y 
 L 
L Mg L dy
Net increase in length = l =  0 l 
Y  0  r2  r1 
2

r
 1  · y 
L
MgL
=
Y r1r2
342 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

On putting the values we have

3.14 9.8 0.1
l=
3.14 2 1011 5 10 4 9.8 10 4
= 10–5 m
On changing the two ends change in length will have the same value.
6.15. A solid steel cylinder of length l = 1 m is placed on a horizontal
surface. A vertically downward compression force of F = 1500 N distributed
uniformly over the end face is applied on it. Calculate the change in
volume of the cylinder. Young’s modulus of steel = 2 × 1011 N/m2. Poisson’s
ratio = 0.29.
per unit increase in diameter r /r
Solution: Poisson’s ratio  = =
per unit increase in length l /l
Initial volume of the cylinder V1 = r 2l
Final volume of the cylinder V2 =  (r + r)2 (l – l)
=  (r 2l + 2r r · l – r 2 · l)
V = V1 – V2 = – 2r · r · l + r 2 · l
2 r l
= r 2 l
r l
l
= r 2 l [1 – 2]
l
F
= r 2 l [1 – 2]
r2 Y
F
= l [1 – 2]
Y
On substituting the values we have
1500
V = 1 [1 – 2 × 0.29] ×
2 1011
= 3.15 mm3
6.16. Find the value of Poisson’s ratio at which the volume of a wire does
not change when the wire is subjected to a tension.
Solution: Consider a wire of length l and radius r. Initial volume
V1 = r 2l
Let the wire be subjected to a tension. Its volume is given by
V2 =  (r – r)2 (l + l) =  (r 2 – 2rr + r 2) (l + l)
Now V1 = V2
r 2l = r 2l – 2r · r · l + r 2 · l
or 2r · r · l = r 2 · l
ELASTICITY 343

2 r l
=
r l
l l
2 =
l l
1
or  = = 0.5
2
6.17. A steel wire of diameter d = 1.0 mm is stretched horizontally
between two clamps located at a distance l = 2.0 m from each other. A
load of m = 0.25 kg is suspended from the midpoint of the wire. What is
the vertical distance through which the midpoint of the wire will move
down? Young’s modulus of steel = 20 × 1010 N/m2 and g = 9.8 m/s2.
Solution: In Fig. 6.7 the resolve part of T perpendicular to the length of
the wire is 2T sin  and is balanced by the weight, mg, i.e.,
mg
T=
2 sin
Tl
Young’s modulus Y = where A is the area of cross-section of the
A l
wire and l is the change in length.
2 l l 1 cos
From the geometry of the figure, l = –l=
2 cos cos
T l cos T cos mg cos
Y= = = ;
r 2l 1 cos r 2 1 cos 2 r 2 sin 1 cos
r = radius of the wire
2 m g cos
Y=
d 2 sin 1 cos
When  is small,
sin  = , cos  = 1 – 2 sin2 /2 = 1 – 2/2
sin 1 cos 3
2m g
= =
cos 2 d 2Y
1/3
4mg 2x
 = =
d 2Y l
1/3 1/3
4m g mg Fig. 6.7
x=l =l
8 d 2Y 2 d 2Y
On substituting the values of the various terms, we have
1/3
250 980
x = 200  2.5 cm
2 3.14 0.01 20 1011
344 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

6.18. A light rod of length 200 cm is suspended from the ceiling

horizontally by means of two vertical wires of equal length tied to its ends.
One of the wires is made of steel and is of cross-section 0.1 cm2 and the
other is of brass of cross-section 0.2 cm2. Find out the position along the
rod at which a weight may be hung to produce:
(i) equal stress in both wires,
(ii) equal strain in both wires,
Young’s modulus of elasticity of brass and steel are 10 × 1011 dyne/cm2
and 20 × 1011 dyne/cm2 respectively. (IIT 1974)
Solution: (i) Let the weight W be hung at O (Fig. 6.8) such that PO = x.
On taking moment about O, we have
T1 · x = T2 (200 – x); T1 and T2 are the tensions in the two wires.
T1 200 x
or =
T2 x
T1 T
For producing equal stress in both the wires we have = 2 ; A1
A1 A2
and A2 are the areas of cross-section of the steel and the brass wire
respectively.
T1 A 200 x
 = 1 =
T2 A2 x
1 200 x
or =
2 x
or x = 400 – 2x
or x = 400/3 = 133.3 cm
(ii) The Young’s moduli of the two Fig. 6.8
materials can be represented by the
following equations.
T L T L
Y1 = 1 1 and Y2 = 2 2
A1l1 A2 l2
where l 1 and l2 are the increase in length of the two wires
respectively.
l T l T
Now 1 = 1 and 2 = 2
L1 Y1 A1 L2 Y2 A2
For there to be equal strains,
T1 T2
=
Y1 A1 Y2 A2
T1 YA 200 x
 = 1 1 =
T2 Y2 A2 x
ELASTICITY 345

20 1011 0.1 200 x

or =
10 1011 0.2 x
or x = 200 – x
or x = 100 cm
6.19. A sphere of radius 10 cm and mass 25 kg is attached to the
lower end of a steel wire which is suspended from the ceiling of a
room, the point of support being 521 cm above the floor. When the
sphere is set swinging as simple pendulum its lowest point just
grazes the floor. Calculate the velocity of the ball at its lowest position.
Y = 20 × 1011 dyne/cm2, L = 500 cm, radius of the steel wire = 0.05 cm.
Solution: Length of the wire, L = 500 cm
(L + l) = 501 cm (see Fig. 6.9)
 l = 1 cm (increase in length)
l 1
Strain =
L 500
F
Y= L
Al
YAl 20 1011 3.14 (0.05)2 1
or F= =
L 500
= 31.4 × 106 dynes
At the lowest point A, the equation of motion is
Fig. 6.9
v2
F – mg = m
r
v2
or F = mg + m
r
On substituting the values of the various terms, we have
25,000
31.4 × 106 = 25,000 × 980 + × v 2;
511
m = 25000 g, r = 521 – 10 = 511 cm
v = 375 cm/s
6.20. A copper cylinder is heated up to 100°C. What is the pressure
required to keep its length constant? Young’s modulus of copper
= 13 × 1010 N/m2, coefficient of linear expansion of copper = 17 × 10–6/°C.
Fl
Solution: Y =
A L
where A is the area of cross-section, l is the change in length,
l = original length.
Increase in length, l = l  t ;  = coefficient of linear expansion
346 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

t = change in temperature
l
 =  t
l
force F l
Pressure P = = =Y = Y t
area A l
On substituting the values of various terms, we have
P = 13 × 1010 × 17 × 10–6 × 102
= 13 × 17 × 106
= 2.21 × 103 × 105
= 2.21 × 103 atmospheric pressure (1 atmos = 105 N/m2)
6.21. A copper wire of diameter 0.4 mm heated up to 220°C is clamped at
its ends in the same condition. On reducing its temperature a tension
develops in it. Calculate the force exerted on the clamps when its
temperature falls to 20°C. Young’s modulus of copper = 13 × 1011 dyne/cm2,
coefficient of linear expansion of copper = 17 × 10–6/°C.
Solution: Change in length = l  ·t = 200 l
F
Y = ; F is force exerted on the clamps
area · strain
 F = Y × area × strain
F = 13 × 1011 ×  × (0.02)2 × 17 × 10–6 × 200
= 13 × 3.14 × 17 × 8 × 103 dynes
= 5.55 × 106 dynes
6.22. A uniform rod of area of cross-section 2 mm2 is heated from 0°C to
40°C. Calculate the energy stored per unit volume. Coefficient of linear
expansion of the rod  = 12 × 10–6/°C and Young’s modulus = 1011 N/m2.
Solution: Strain produced in the rod =  t = 12 × 10–6 × 40 = 48 × 10–5
Force required to prevent the rod from expanding = Y · A · strain
= 1011 × 2 × 10–6 × 48 × 10–5 = 96 N
1
Energy stored per unit volume = stress × strain
2
1 96
= × × 48 × 10–5
2 2 10 6
= 11,520 J/m3
6.23. A heated steel tyre is fitted on a wheel of radius 0.4 m. If the tension
produced in the tyre on cooling to 17°C is within elastic limits, then to
what temperature should the tyre be heated? Calculate the tension
developed in it if the tyre is 3 cm wide and 3 mm thick. Young’s modulus
ELASTICITY 347
of steel = 2 × 104 kg/mm2, coefficient of linear expansion = 1.1 × 10–5/°C
and the limit of elastic tensile stress = 28 kg/mm2.
Solution: Let the tyre be heated up to t°C.
Strain produced =  (t – 17)
tensile stress
Young’s modulus Y =
strain
tensile stress
 Strain =  (t – 17) =
Y
tensile stress 28 9.8 106
 t – 17 = =
Y 1.1 10 5 2 104 9.8 106
1400
=  127.3°C
11
 t = 144.3°C
Let F be the tension developed in the tyre. Then,
F
= 28 × 9.8 × 106
3 3 10 5
or F = 9 × 280 × 9.8
= 2520 × 9.8
= 2520 kg wt
6.24. A copper wire is clamped at its two ends between two rigid supports.
When the temperature is 30°C then there is no tension in the wire. What
will be the speed of the transverse wave in the wire at 10°C. Young’s
modulus of copper = 1.3 × 1011 N/m2, coefficient of linear expansion of
copper = 1.7 × 10–5/°C and density of copper = 9 × 103 kg/m3.
(IIT 1979)
Solution: Let l be the length of the wire at 30°C.
Reduction in length = l  (30 – 10) = 20  l
Strain produced = 20  = 34 × 10–5
T
Y =
A strain
T
 = Y × strain = Y × 20  = 1.3 × 1011 × 34 × 10–5
A
T T
Speed of the transverse wave =
m Ad

1.3 1011 34 10 5

=
9 103
10
= 13 34 × = 70.08 m/s
3
348 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

6.25. A composite rod is made by joining a copper rod to another rod of

different material but of same area of cross-section. At 25°C the length of
the composite rod is 1 m while that of copper rod 30 cm. At 125°C the
length of the composite rod increases by 1.91 mm. Find the coefficient of
linear expansion of the second rod (for copper,  = 1.7 × 10–5/°C).
When the composite rod is not allowed to expand by holding it between
two rigid walls, it is found that the length of the two constituents do not
change with rise in temperature. Find the Young’s modulus of the second
rod (for copper Y = 1.3 × 1011 N/m2). (IIT 1979)
Solution:
(i) Total length of the composite rod at 125°C is given by
L = l1 [1 + 1 (t2 – t1)] + l2 [1 + 2 (t2 – t1)]; l1 is the length of other rod
and l2 is the length of copper rod.
Increase in length = L – (l1 + l2) = (l11 + l22) (t2 – t1)
L l1 l2 0.191
or = = (70 1 + 30 × 1.7 × 10–5)
t 2 t1 125 25
or 191 × 10–5 = 70 1 + 51 × 10–5
or 140 × 10–5 = 70 1
or 1 = 2 × 10–5/°C
(ii) In the second case, since there is no increase in length, i.e., no
net force is acting; in other words, the same amount of force is
exerted by the two rods.
Therefore,
Y1 A l1 Y A l2
F = = 2
l1 l2
l2 l1
or Y1 = Y2
l1 l2
l1 = 70 × 2 × 10–5 × 100 = 14 × 10–2 cm
l2 = 30 × 1.7 × 10–5 × 100 = 5.1 × 10–2 cm
1.3 1011 5.1 10 4 0.7
Y1 = = 1.1 × 1011 N/m2
14 10 4 0.3
6.26. A steel wire of length 1 m, mass 0.1 kg and uniform cross-sectional
area 10–6 m2 is rigidly fixed at both ends. The temperature of the wire is
lowered by 20°C. If transverse waves are set up by plucking the wire in the
middle, calculate the frequency of the fundamental mode of vibration
(Young’s modulus of steel = 2 × 1011 N/m2, coefficient of linear expansion
of steel = 1.21 × 10–5/°C). (IIT 1984)
Solution: The tension produced in the wire by lowering the temperature
is given by
ELASTICITY 349
T = Y · A · T
= 2 × 1011 × 10–6 × 1.21 × 10–5 × 20
= 48.40 N
1 T 1 48.4 22
Fundamental frequency n = = = = 11 Hz
2l m 2 1 0.1 2
6.27. A rod AD consisting of three segments AB, BC and CD joined
together, is hanging vertically from a fixed support A. The lengths of the
segments are respectively 0.1 m, 0.2 m and 0.15 m. The cross-section of
the rod is uniformly 10–4 m2. A weight of 10 kg is hung from D. Calculate
the displacements of points B, C and D. Neglect the weight of the rod.
Given YAB = 2.5 × 1010 N/m2, YBC = 4 × 1010 N/m2 and YCD = 1.0 × 1010 N/m2.
(Roorkee, 1986)
Solution: The four points A, B, C and D are shown in Fig. 6.10.
10 9.8 AB
YAB =
10 4 l1
10 9.8 0.1
l1 = = 3.92 × 10–6 m
10 4 2.5 1010
Thus, B will shifted downward by 3.92 × 10–6 m
10 9.8 BC
YBC =
10 4 l2
10 9.8 0.2
l2 = = 4.9 × 10–6 m
10 4 4 1010
Therefore, C will be shifted downward by
l1 + l2 = 8.82 + 10–6 m
10 9.8 CD Fig. 6.10
YCD =
10 4 l3
10 9.8 0.15
or l3 = = 14.7 × 10–6 m
10 4 1.0 1010
Thus D will be shifted downward by l1 + l2 + l3 = 23.52 × 10–6 m
6.28. Calculate the twisting couple per unit angle of twist of a hollow
cylindrical tube of length l and having inner and outer diameters as d1
and d2 respectively.
Solution: Let the upper end of the tube be fixed and a couple be applied
in a plane perpendicular to its length so as to twist it through an angle 
radian. In this case of twisting there is neither a change in the length nor
the radius of the tube.
In view of Fig. 6.11. BB = l  = x · 
x
 =
l
350 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

F
 = ;  = modulus of rigidity
x
or F =  = 
l
Consider a shell of radius x and x + dx
Face area = 2  xdx
x
Total shearing force = 2  xdx  ·
l
2
= · x2dx
l
2
Moment of this force about OO = · x3dx
l
Net twisting couple on the cylinder
Fig. 6.11
d2
2  3
N=  d1
2
2
l
· x dx

= d24 d14
32l
N
C = = d24 d14
32l
6.29. Calculate the power that can be transmitted through a steel shaft
of length l = 1 m, radius r = 1.5 cm, rotating about its own axis with an
angular velocity of 90 rad/sec. The permissible torsional angle  = 2°.
Modulus of rigidity of steel  = 8.1 × 1010 N/m2.
Solution: A shaft is basically a cylinder. Torque acting on a cylinder of
radius r and length l is given by
r4
C= ;  = torsional angle..
2l
Work done dw = c · d
dw d
Power =C· =C·
dt dt
r4 ·
P =
2l
On substituting the values of various terms we have
3.14 2 3.14
P= × 8.1 × 1010 × 1.54 × 10–8 × × 90
2 180
= 2.02 watt
6.30. Calculate the internal pressure sustained by a glass tube of
wall thickness r = 1 mm and radius r = 2 cm. Breaking stress of glass
 = 0.05 × 109 N/m.
ELASTICITY 351
Solution: Let us consider a half of the cylindrical tube of length l
The force keeping the two half parts together = 2 (r · l)
In case of equilibrium p · 2rl = 2 ·r · l
r
p=·
r
On substituting the values we have
0.05 109 10 3
p=
2 10 2
= 2.5 × 106 N/m2
6.31. Calculate the amount of work to be performed to construct a hoop
out of a steel sheet of length l = 3 m, width h = 5 cm and thickness
 = 1.5 mm. Young’s modulus of steel = 2 × 1011 N/m2.
Solution: Consider a shell of radius x and x + dx
2 x l
Strain on the layer of radius x =
l
2 x l
Stress on this layer = Y ·
l
1 2 x l 2 x l
Energy per unit volume at the layer = Y
2 l l
2
1 x
= Y 1 ; 2 R = l
2 R
Volume of the shell = 2 x · dx · h
1 Y
Energy in the shell dU = (x – R)2 · 2 xdx
dx · h
2 R2
Y h R  2
2 R   
x  R x d x
2
U = dU =
R 2
Let x – R = p

Y h 
U=  
2
p2  R  p  d p
R2 
2

2 Y h  2 2 

= 2
R 
  0
p R d p   0
2 p3 d p


2 Yh 3 3
= 1
24 R 8R
For small value of  we have
2
Yh 3
U=
6l
352 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

On substituting the values we have

1 3.142
U= × × 2 × 1011 × 5 × 10–2 × 1.53 × 10–9 = 18.49 J
6 3
6.32. A steel rod of length l = 1 m and radius r = 8 mm is fixed at one end
while the other end is twisted through an angle  = 3°. Calculate the elastic
deformation energy. Modulus of rigidity of steel = 8.1 × 1010 N/m2.
Solution: Twisting couple per unit angle of twist is given by
r4
C = ;  = modulus of rigidity
2l
r 4 · 
Torque T =
2l
 r 4 
2l  0
Work done = W =  T · d  = ·d
0

r 4 · 2
=
4l
On substituting the values we have
3.142
W = 3.14 × 8.1 × 1010 × (0.8 × 10–2)4 ·
3600
= 0.7 J
6.33. When a steady current flows through a moving coil dead beat
galvanometer its frame is acted upon by a twisting moment equal to
2 × 10–13 N/m. The work done in twisting the frame through a small angle
 is 8.5 × 10–16 J. Over what distance will the reflection from the mirror of
the galvanometer shift on a scale placed at a distance of 1 m from the
galvanometer?
Solution: Torque = C  = 2 × 10–13
1
Work done = C · 2 = 8.5 × 10–16
2
2 8.5 10 16
 = = 8.5 × 10–3
2 10 13
The reflection from the mirror of the galvanometer will be obtained
at an angle 2  given by
l
2  = ; l = distance moved on the scale placed at a distance L from
L
the galvanometer.
l=2·L
On putting the values we have
l = 2 × 8.5 × 10–3 × 1
= 17 × 10–3 m
= 17 mm
ELASTICITY 353
6.34. A load suspended from a steel rope is lowered from a ship to
measure the depth of a sea. Neglecting the weight of the load as
compared with that of the rope, find the maximum depth that can be
measured by this method. Density of sea water = 1000 kg/m3, Breaking
stress of steel = 7.85 × 108 N/m2, density of steel = 7700 kg/m3.
Solution: Net stretching force = Mg – hgA;  = density of sea water
h = depth of sea
A = area of cross-section
Mass of rope M = Ah;  = density of steel
Net stretching force = Ahg ( – )
Net stretching force
Breaking stressT =
A
= hg ( – )
T
or h =
g
On putting the values we have
7.85 108
h =
9.8 (7700 1000)
= 11.955 km.
6.35. A rubber hose 50 cm long and with an internal diameter of 1 cm is
stretched until its length becomes greater by 10 cm. Find the internal
diameter of the stretched hose. Poisson’s ratio of the rubber  = 0.5.
dD
lateral strain D
Solution: Poisson’s ratio  = =
longitudinal strain dL
L
L dD
 = ·
D dL
 · D · dL
 dD =
L
On putting the values of various terms we have
0.5 10 2 10 1
dD = = 10–3 m = 1 mm
0.5
 Final diameter = D – dD = (10 – 1) mm = 9 mm
6.36. The minor of a galvanometer is suspended on a wire L = 10 cm
long and d = 0.01 mm in diameter. Find the twisting moment which
corresponds to a deviation of the reflection of l = 1 mm on a scale
removed from the mirror by D = 1 m. The shear modulus of the material
of the wire  = 4 × 1011 dyne/cm2.
r4
Solution: Torque T =
2L
354 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

1
here  = × 10–3 = 5 × 10–4
2
r = 0.005 mm = 5 × 10–6 m
10 5
 = 4 × 1011 × = 4 × 1010 N/m2
10 4
On substituting the values
3.14 4 1010 54 10 24
5 10 4

T =
2 0.1
= 1.96 × 10–13 N/m
6.37. A hollow tube of length 2L open at both ends is rigidly fastened in
the middle to the wire of length l and radius r and is suspended vertically
from a support as shown in the Fig. 6.12. Two hollow and two solid
metal cylinders of equal length and diameter can be filled into the tube
such that, put end to end they just fill it completely. Mass of each hollow
cylinder is m1 and that of each solid cylinder m2. When the solid cylinders
are put into the inner position and the hollow ones in the outer position
the period of torsional vibration is T1. When the solid and the hollow
cylinders are interchanged in position the period of torsional vibration is
T2. Find the modulus of rigidity of the material of the wire.
Solution:
I1
T1 = 2 ·
C
I2
and T2 = 2 ·
C
where I1 and I2 are the moment of inertia of the loaded tube about the
wire as axis and C is the twisting couple per unit angle of twist.
4 2
T22 T12 = (I – I )
C 2 1
9 L2 L2
I2 = I1 + 2 (m2 – m1)
16 16 l
L2
= I1 + 2 (m2 – m1)
2
or I2 – I1 = (m2 – m1) L2
4 2
 T22 T12 = · (m2 – m1) L2
C
4 2 · 2l 2L
or T22 T12 = (m2 – m1) L2
r 4 Fig. 6.12

8 l ·(m2  m1 ) L2
  =
T22  T12 r 4
ELASTICITY 355
6.38. A thin uniform metallic rod of length 0.5 m and radius 0.1 m rotates
with an angular velocity 400 rad/sec in a horizontal plane about a vertical
axis passing through one of its ends. Calculate tension in the rod and the
elongation of the rod. The density of material of the rod is 104 kg/m3 and
the Young’s modulus is 2 × 1011 N/m2. (Roorkee 1995)
Solution: Consider an element of
length dx situated at a distance x 
from the axis of rotation (see
Fig. 6.13).
Centripetal force dT on the dx
element is given by
dT =  Adx · x · 2 ; A = area of x
L
cross-section of the rod.
Tension in the rod at a distance
x from the axis of rotation will be Fig. 6.13
due to the mass of the rod between x
and L
L 1
T = dT =  A 2 x d x =  A 2 [L2 – x2]
x 2
On substituting the values we have
1
T = × 104 ×  × 10–2 × 4002 [0.25 – x2] N
2
= 8 × 106 0.25  x 2  N
Let dl be the elongation in the element of length dx situated at a
distance x from the axis of rotation then
dl T
= ; Y = Young’s modulus
dx AY
1 2 2
or dl =  L  x 2  dx
2 Y 
2 L 2 1 2 L3
or l =  dl 
2Y 0   L  x 2  dx 
3 
On putting the values we have
1
 104   400    0.5 
2 3

3 1
l =   103 m
2  1011
3
6.39. Two blocks of mass m1 and m2 connected through a light string of
area of cross-section A arranged as shown in the Fig. 6.14. The block of
mass m1 is pulled to the left by a force F = m2g/3. The Young’s modulus of
the material of string is Y. In the absence of the frictional force find the
strain developed in the string.
356 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution: The equation of motion of the blocks is given by

F – T = m1a
and T – m2g = m2a
m2
or T – m2g = (F – T)
m1
m2 m2
or T 1 = F + m2g
m1 m1
m1 m2 m2 m2 g
T = + m2g Fig. 6.14
m1 m1 3
m2 g m2 3m1
T =
3 m1 m2
T mg m2 3m1
 Stress = = 2
A 3A m1 m2
Stress m2 g m2 3m1
Strain = =
Y 3 AY m1 m2
6.40. A steel bar 1 cm square in cross-section is supported by two knife
edges 1 m apart. Calculate the depression of the centre of the bar
when a load of 2 Kg is applied at that point. Young’s modulus of steel
Y = 2 × 1011 N/m2.
Solution:
W · L3
Y= ; W = weight suspended
4 y bd 3
L = distance between the knife edges
y = depression produced
b = breadth of the bar
d = depth of the bar
W L3
 y=
4 · Y · bd 3
On substituting the values we have
2 9.8 1
y=
4 2 1011 10 2 10 6
= 2.45 mm
6.41. A ring of radius 0.1 m is made out of a thin metallic wire of area of
cross-section 10–6 m 2 . The ring has a uniform charge of  Coulomb.
Find the change in the radius of the ring when a charge of 10–8 Coulomb
is placed at centre of the ring. Young’s modulus of the metal is
2 × 1011 N/m2.
ELASTICITY 357
Solution: Consider an element of length l.
Downward force F is given by (see Fig. 6.15).
l
F = 2T · sin = T ·  = T · ;
2 R
For small angles sin =
2 2
F· R
T=
l
Charge on the element of length l = × l Fig. 6.15
2 R
l
= = 5 l
2  0.1
1 5 ·  l  108
Force on the element = F = ·
4 0 (0.1)2
= 9 × 10 × 5 l × 10–6
9

= 4.5 × 104 l
4.5  104  l  0.1
T= = 4.5 × 103 N
l
Change in circumference = strain × circumference
T
= × 2R
A ·Y
Change in circumference
 Change in radius r =
2
TR
r =
A ·Y
On putting the various values we have
4.5 103 0.1
r = = 2.25 × 10–3 m
10 6 2 1011
6.42. A ring of mass m and outer radii r2 is firmly fixed on a shaft of
radius r1 . The shaft rotates about its own axis with constant angular
acceleration . Find the torque in the ring as a function of distance from
the axis of rotation.
Solution: Consider a ring of width dx and radius x.
Turning force = S × 2xdx; S is the shear stress at a distance x
x
S= ·;  = maximum shear stress
r2
x
 Turning force = · 2xdx
r2
358 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

2  2
 Torque on the element d = ·x dx ·x
r2
2  3
= ·x dx
r2
2  r2
 = d =
r2  r
x 3 dx
2
 = r24 r4
4r2
ma m ·r2
 = = ; a = linear acceleration
r22 r12 r22 r12
 = angular acceleration
 m  · r2
 = · · r24  r 4 
2r2  r22  r12 
m r24 r4
 =
2 r22 r12
6.43. Find the maximum pressure produced when water freezes.
ice = 0.92 gm/cc, Young’s modulus = 2.8 × 1010 N/m2 , Poisson’s ratio
 = 0.3.
Solution: Relative change in volume is given by
V 31 2
= · p ; p = pressure e
V Y
m m m  water  ice 
Now V = – =
ice water  water ·  ice
V water ice
31 2
= = ·p
V water Y
Y  water  ice 
p =
water · 3 1  2 
2.8  1010  1  0.92 
p =
1  3 1  0.6 
2.8 1010 0.08
=
3 0.4
= 1.867 × 109 N/m2
6.44. Calculate the % change in volume of a solid glass sphere if it is
placed in the vacuum than in air. Atmospheric pressure = 75 cm of
mercury. Compressibility of glass  = 0.025 GPa–1.
ELASTICITY 359
Solution:
dv
 =–
vdp
dv
 × 100 =  · dp × 100
v
= 0.025 × 10–9 × 0.75 × 13.6 × 103 × 9.8 × 100
= 2.5 × 10–4
6.45. A ball of mass m = 0.5 kg is attached to an iron wire of length 25 cm
and radius 0.5 mm. At what maximum number of revolutions per sec can
the wire rotate uniformly in a vertical plane so that the wire does not break.
iron = 2.94 × 108 N/m2.
Solution: The equation of motion is given by
T – mg = ml 2
T mg
A = ml2; A = area of cross-section of the wire
e
A A
8 0.5 9.8 108
25 × 10–8 2.94 10 = 0.5 × 0.25 · 2
25
230.79 4.9
= 0.5 0.25
= 42.5
4.25
n= = 6.77 rps
6.28
6.46. N rods of torsional rigidities C1, C2 . . . CN are joined end to end. Find
the torsional rigidity of the combination.
Solution: Let us fix the upper end of the combination by a rigid support
and rotate the lower end. Let  be the angle of twist at the lowest end. Let
1 , 2 , 3 . . . etc. be the twists at the first second and the successive
junctions respectively. The location of the junction is with respect to
the lower end.
C0 = C1 ( – 1) = C2 (1 – 2) . . . = C 
C = torsional rigidity of the combination
C C C
Now  – 1 = 0 , 1 – 2 = 0 . . .  = 0
C1 C2 C
C0 C C C C
 = = ( – 1) + (1 – 2) . . . = 0 + 0 + 0 + . . . 0
C C1 C2 C3 CN
1 1 1 1
or = + +...
C C1 C 2 CN
360 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

6.47. Find the torsional rigidity of a tapered wire of length L having end
radii as r1 and r2. The modulus of rigidity of the material of wire is .
Solution: Consider a slice of thickness dx at a distance x from the apex O.
(See Fig. 6.16)
From the geometry we have
r2 r r1
= =
l2 x l1
r4
Torsional rigidity of the slice d  =
2d x
1 2d x
=
d r4
1 1 l2 2d x
= = l
d 1 r4
 14 · x 4
l1
l2
2l14 1 Fig. 6.16
= 
3 r14 x 3 l1

4 3
2l1 l 2 l13
=
3 r14 l13 l23

2 l1 l2 l1 l22 l1l2 l12

=
3 r14 l23

2L l1 l12 l13
=
3 r14 l2 l22 l23
2 3
2L r1 r1 r1
= 4
3 r1 r2 r2 r2
2L
= r22 r1r2 r12
3 r13r23
3 r13 r23
or =
2 L r12 r1r2 r22
6.48. A cylindrical rod of length L mass m and area of cross-section A is
suspended from the ceiling of a room. Find the elastic deformation energy
of the rod.
Solution: Consider an element of length dx situated at a distance x from
the lower end.
ELASTICITY 361

m 
Force =  · x  g
L 
mx g
Stress =
LA
Stress mg x
Strain = = ; Y = Young’s modulus x
Y L AY
1 1
Elastic energy/volume = stress × strain = strain2 × Y
2 2 Fig. 6.17
1 m2 g 2 x 2
=
2 L2 A 2Y
1 m 2 g 2 x 2 A · dx
dU = Energy associated with the element =
2 L2 A 2Y
1 2 2
m g
U =  dU = 2 2
L
·  x 2 dx
L AY 0

m2 g 2 L
=
6 AY
6.49. A wire of diameter 0.32 mm elongates by 1 mm when
stretched by a force of 0.33 kgf and twists through 1 rad when a torque of
145 × 10–7 N/m is applied. Find the value of Poisson’s ratio.
Solution:
F ·L 0.33 9.8 L
Y = = 2
A ·l 0.16 10 6 10 3

r 4

 =
2L
 · 2L 2 145 10 7 L
 = =
r 4 (0.16)4 10 12
Y
= 2.85 = 2 + 2
 = 0.43
4.50. A metal bar soldered to the lower end of a wire as shown in Fig. 6.18
performs torsional oscillations. How the period of oscillation will change
by reducing (i) the length of the wire by 50% (ii) the length of the bar by
50% (iii) the length of the wire and bar both by 50%.
Solution:
I
T = 2 · ; I = moment of inertia of the bar about an axis passing
C
through the wire.
C = Twisting couple per unit angle of twist.
362 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

m L2 r4
I= ,C=
12 2l
m L2 2l
Now T = 2 · 
12 r 4

m L2 l
= 2 ·
6 r 4

m L2 ·l /2 T
(i) T1 = 2 · = Fig. 6.18
6 r 4
2
2
m· L ·l
(ii) T2 = 2 · 4 = T
6 r 4
2
2
m· L ·l T
4 2
(iii) T3 = 2 · =
6 r 4
2 2
6.51. Two cylindrical bars of length l and radius r are attached through a
steel wire AB. A loop of thread is attached at the ends C and E of the two
bars. The system is suspended through the two threads AA and BB as
shown in Fig. 6.19. When the thread is burnt out the two rods starts
oscillating simple harmonically. Find the Young’s modulus of the wire AB.
Solution: Let  be the angular deflection of the two bars
YA K 2
Bending moment on each rod M =
R
A = area of cross-section, K = radius of
gyration, R = radius of curvature.
l 2YA K 2
= 2 ; M =
R l
d 
2
2YA K 2
Now I 2 = – · ;
dt l
I = moment of inertia of the bar.
2 2YA K 2
= =
T Il
Il
T = 2 ·
2YA K 2

I ·l
= 2 · Fig. 6.19
2Y ·  r 2 · r 2
4
ELASTICITY 363
2
Il8
T2 =
Y r4
8 Il
Y = 2 4
T r
6.52. A highly rigid cubical block A of small mass m and side L is fixed
rigidly on another cubical block B of the same dimension and of low
modulus of rigidity  such that the lower surface of A completely covers
the upper surface of B. The lower face of B is rigidly held on a horizontal
surface. A small force is applied perpendicular to one of the faces of A.
Find the period with which A will execute oscillations when the force is
withdrawn.
Solution:
F x
= ;= (see Fig. 6.20)
A L
Ax
F= =  L x; A = L2
L
m · acceleration = –  L · x
2 L
= =
T m Fig. 6.20

m
T = 2 ·
L
6.53. Two cylinders A and B of radii r and 2r are soldered coaxially. The
free end of A is clamped and the free end of B is twisted by an angle .
Calculate the twist at the junction taking the materials of the two cylinders
to be same and of equal lengths.
Solution: Let T be the couple applied at the free end of B. Let  be the
twist at the junction. The relative twist between the ends of the rod A = 
and the relative twist between the ends of the rod B =  – .
r4  ·(2r )4 (   )
T = =
2l 2l
17  = 16 
16 
 =
17
6.54. Two solid cylinders of same material having lengths l and 2l and
radii r and 2r are joined coaxially. When a couple is applied between the
free ends, the shorter cylinder shows a tiwst of 30°. Find the twist of the
longer cylinder.
364 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution:
r4  ·(2r )4 · 
T= =
2l 2  2l
 = 8
30
 = =
= 3.75°
8 8
6.55. A thin walled circular tube of mean radius 10 cm and thickness
0.05 cm is melted and recast into a solid cylinder of the same length.
Compare their torsional rigidities.
Solution:
0.05
Inner radius = r1 = 10 – = 9.975 × 10–2 m
2
0.05
Outer radius = r2 = 10 + = 10.025 × 10–2 m
2
r22 r12 l =  r2 l
or r = r22 r12

C1
=  
r24  r14  2 l
· =
r22 r12
C2 2l r 4 r2
r22 r12 100.5 99.5
= = = 200
r22 r12 100.5 99.5
5.56. A suspension thread consists of a wire of length l and radius r
carrying below it a wire of length l/10 and radius 10 r. Each time the
material is the same. The top end is clamped and the lower end is twisted
about a vertical axis. Calculate (i) the torsional rigidity of the whole
suspension. (ii) the ratio of the angles through which the lower ends of
each part of the suspension are twisted.
Solution:
1 2l 2l 1 10 5
(i) = = 2l
r4 r 4 10 104 r4
r4
t = 5
2 l 1 10
r 4   r 4  105 
(ii) T = 
2l 2l

 = 105

6.57. A hollow cylinder of length l and inner and outer radii r1 and r2 is
fixed rigidly at one end. The other end of the cylinder is rotated through
ELASTICITY 365
. Find (i) the torque developed (ii) the amount of work done (iii) compare
the modulus of rigidity of a hollow and solid shaft.
Solution:
(i) BB = x  = l  (see Fig. 6.21)
x
or  =
l
shearing stress f f ·l
 = =
x
x
f =
l
Consider a shell of radius x and x + dx
Area of the shell = 2 xdx
Shearing force tangential to the surface
x
of the cylinder = · 2xd x
l
Torque acting on the cylinder Fig. 6.21
2  2
d = · x dx · x
l
2  r2 3
l  r1
Net torque = d = x dx

 r24  r14 

=
2l
r24  r14  r24  r14  2
(ii) Work done = d =  ··d =
2l 4l
r24 r14
(iii) Torsional rigidity C = for hollow cylinder
2l
4
r
and C = for solid cylinder
2l
C r24 r14 r22  r12 r22  r12 
= =
C r4 r4
If masses of both the cylinders are same then
r22 r12 l = r 2 l 
 r22 r12 = r2
C r2 r12 2r12
Now = 2
C r2
2r 2
= 1 + 21
r
 C > C
 7
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION

7.1. Show that a particle moving on the circumference of a circle executes

simple harmonic motion.
Solution: Let a particle be at A (see Fig. 7.1). It starts moving on the
circumference of the circle with an angular velocity  and reaches B after
time t. Its displacements along the x and y axes is given by
x = a cos t
y = a sin t
where a is the radius of the circle.
The acceleration along the x and
y-axes is given by
d2 x d2 y
2 = –  x and = – 2y
2
dt dt 2
The acceleration is proportional
to displacement along the two axes;
hence the particle executes simple
harmonic motion.
Fig. 7.1
2 acceleration
Now  = =
T displacement
displacement
or T=2 
acceleration
7.2. A particle is executing simple harmonic motion. Its amplitude is
4 cm and time period 3 s. What is the time it will take to travel from its
position of maximum displacement to one corresponding to half its
amplitude?
Solution: The equation of motion of a particle executing simple harmonic
motion is x = a sin t
dx
then = a  cos t =  a 2 x 2
dt
dx
or =  · dt
a x2
2
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 367
Integrating the above equation within the limits given, the required
time is as follows:
4 t
dx 2
2 42 x 2
= 
3 0
dt

4
1 x 2
or sin = ·t
42 3
1 2
or sin–1 1 – sin–1 = ·t
2 3
2
or = ·t
2 6 3
2
or = ·t
3 3
or t = 0.5 s
7.3. Two linear simple harmonic motions of different amplitudes and
same frequency are imposed on a particle along the x and y axes
respectively. Find out the resultant path followed by the particle if the
initial phase difference between them is 0,  and /2 respectively.
Solution: Let the equation of motion of a particle along x and y axes be
x = a sin t
y = b sin (t + )
where  is the initial phase.
y
Now = sin t cos  + cos t sin 
b
y x x2
or = cos  + 1 · sin
b a a2
2
y x x2
or cos = 1 sin2
b a a2
y 2 x 2 2 xy
or cos = sin 2
b2 a2 ab
(i) When  = 0 we have
y x b
– = 0 or y = x, i.e., the particle will describe a straight
b a a
line in the first and third quadrants.
(ii) When  = , we have
y x b
+ = 0 or y = x, i.e., the particle will describe a straight
b a a
line in the second and fourth quadrants.
368 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

(iii) When  = /2, we have

x2 y 2
1 i.e., the particle will describe an ellipse.
a 2 b2
When a = b, the above equation is transformed into the equation
of the circle x2 + y2 = a2
7.4. Two linear simple harmonic motions of equal amplitudes and
frequencies  and 2 are imposed on a particle along the axes of x and y
respectively. If the initial phase difference between them is /2, then find
the resultant path followed by the particle. (Roorkee 1985)
Solution: Let the equation of the particle along the x and y axes be

x = a cos t and y = a cos 2 t

2
Now y = – a sin 2t
= – 2a sin t cos t
x2 x
= – 2a 1  ·
a2 a
x2
or y 2 = 4x2 1
a2
7.5. A particle executes a simple harmonic motion with time period T1 = 3s
under a constraining force F1, with time period T2 = 4s under a similar force
F2. What will be its time period when the two forces acts together?
Solution: Let m be the mass of the particle. Suppose the first force F1
causes an acceleration a1 and the second force F2 and acceleration a2 in it.
Also, assume that the sum of these forces produces an acceleration a in
the particle.
Then, according to Newton’s second law
F F F F2
a1 = 1 ; a2 = 2 and a = 1
m m m
 a = a1 + a2
Since the particle executes simple harmonic motion,
a1 = – 12 x , a2 = – 22 x and a = – 2x
2 2 2
where 1 = , 2 = and  = and x is the displacement.
T1 T2 T
Now 2 = 2
1
2
2

1 1 1
or = 2
T2 T1 T22
T1 T2
or T =
T12 T22
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 369
On substituting the values of T1 and T2, we have
3 4 12
T= = = 2.4 s
2
3 4 2 5
7.6. A block is resting on a piston which is moving vertically in simple
harmonic motion of period 1.0 s. At what amplitude of motion will the
block and piston separate? What is the maximum velocity of the piston
at this amplitude? (Roorkee 1985)
Solution: Let us assume that the piston holding the block is executing
simple harmonic motion along the y-axis. The equation of motion is
given by
y = a sin t
dy
= velocity = a  cos t
dt
d2 y d2 y
and 2 = acceleration = –  y; = – 2a
2
dt dt 2 max
The maximum value of acceleration at which the block separates
should be equal to g, i.e.,
2a = g
g g 9.8
or a = 2
· T2 = 2
= = 0.248 m
4 4 4 (3.14)2
The maximum velocity of the particle is equal to
2
a = · a = 2 × 3.14 × 0.248 = 1.56 m/s
T
7.7. A particle starting from the origin executes simple harmonic motion
along x axis. Its velocity at any instant t is given by vx = 22 cos t/2 cm/sec.
Calculate the total distance covered by the particle in time t = 4.5 sec.
Solution:
2
=
T 2
 T = 4 sec
dx
vx = = 22 cos · t
dt 2
22
x = 2× · sin t
2
or x = 14 sin · t cm
2
Distance travelled in 4 sec = 4 × 14 = 56 cm
Distance travelled in remaining 0.5 sec = x = 14 sin × 0.5
2
14
= = 7 2 = 9.898 cm
2
370 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

 Total distance covered = 56 + 9.9 = 65.9 cm

= 0.659 m.
7.8. A particle participates simultaneously in two simple harmonic
35 t 35
oscillations in the same direction; x1 = cos cm and x2 = cos t cm.
2
Calculate the maximum velocity of the particle.
Solution:
dx1 35  dx2 35
=– · sin t ,    · sin  t
dt 2  2 dt 
35     
v = –  sin t  4 sin t · cos t 
2  2 2 2 
t
Put =
2
35
v =– [sin  + 4 sin  · cos ]
2
dv 35
= 0=– [cos  + 4 cos2  – 4 sin2 ]
d 2
cos  + 4 cos2  – 4 (1 – cos2 ) = 0
8 cos2  + cos  – 4 = 0
1 1 128
cos  = = 0.6474
16
sin  = 0.762
35
vma x = [0.762 + 4 × 0.762 × 0.6474]
2
= 47.86 cm/sec
7.9. A spring of force constant K suspended from the ceiling of an elevator
contains a ball of mass m at its other end. At an instant t = 0 the elevator
is at rest and at the origin. It starts going up with an acceleration a = t.
Where  is constant. Find the law of motion of the ball relative to the
elevator.
Solution: The ball will execute simple harmonic motion with frequency
K
=
m
Let the acceleration be given by
d2 y
= A2 sin t
dt 2
On integration
dy
= – A cos t + C
dt
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 371
at t = 0, v = 0  C = A
dy
 = A  (1 – cos t)
dt
On integration we have
y = A [t – sin t] + C
at t = 0, y = 0  C = 0
 y = A [t – sin t]
Now a = t
da
=  = A3 cos t = A3
dt
A = 3

y = 3 [t – sin t]

7.10. A particle of mass m located at the origin and having an initial

velocity v0 along y axis moves in the xy plane due to the force F = a ( y i – x j).
Find (i) the law of motion of the particle (ii) the trajectory of the particle.
Solution:
(i) mx = ay and my = – ax
a a
x = y y and 
y x x
m m
In view of the boundary condition x = y = 0 at t = 0 and y = v0 at t = 0.
Let the solution of the above equation be
x = A (1 – cos t) and y = B sin t
y = B  cos t
at t = 0, v0 = B
v
B = 0
v0
y = · sin t
Now x = A2 cos t =  · v0 cos t
v
A = o
vo
x = (1 – cos t)
2 2
v0 v0
(ii) x y2 =
v0
This is the equation of circle with centre ,0
372 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

7.11. A plank having a body of mass m on it starts going up and

its displacement from the initial position is given by the relation.
y = a (1 – cos t) where a is constant. Find (i) the force exerted by the body
on the plank at an instant t (ii) the amplitude of oscillation of the plank at
which the body starts falling behind the plank (iii) the amplitude of
oscillation of the plank at which the body jumps upto a height h with
respect to its initial position.
Solution:
(i) y = a (1 – cos t)
dy
v = = a  sin t
dt
d2 y
= a 2 cos t
dt 2
Force due to motion = ma 2 cos t
Force exerted by the body = mg + ma 2 cos t
 a 2 
= mg 1  · cos t 
 g 
(ii) g = amin · 2
g
 amin = 2
(iii) Maximum velocity v = A; A = amplitude
A22 = v2 = 2gh
2gh
A = 2

2gh g
Maximum amplitude = A – amin = 2 2

 2h  g
=   ·  1  2
 g 
7.12. A ball of mass m is suspended by a massless spring of force constant
K. The ball is set free without any push. Find (i) the displacement of the
ball from its equilibrium position as a function of time (ii) the maximum
value of the tension produced in the spring.
Solution:
(i) The equation of motion of the ball is given by
md 2 x
= – Kx
dt 2
K
=
m
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 373
Let the displacement of ball be represented by the equation
y = A (1 – cos t)
dy
= A  sin t
dt
d2 y
= A 2 cos t
dt 2
d2 y
at t = 0 =g
dt 2
g = A2
g mg
or A= 2 =
K
mg
y = (1 – cos t)
K
(ii) T – mg = ma
T = m (g + a)
Tmax = 2 mg
7.13. A particle of mass m having an initial displacement r0 along x axis
and initial velocity v0 along y axis moves under the action of a force
F = – am (ix + jy) where a is a positive constant. Find the path of the particle.
Solution: The acceleration along x axis is given by
d2 x
= – ax
dt 2
Let x = x0 cos t be the solution of the equation
d2 x
= – 2 · x = – a x
dt 2
 = a
x = x0 cos a · t
at t = 0, x = r0  x 0 = r0
 x = r0 cos a · t
The acceleration along y axis is given by
d2 y
= – ay
dt 2
Let y = y0 sin t be the solution of the equation
dy
then = y0  cos t
dt
dy
at t = 0, = v0
dt
v0 = y0 
374 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

or y =
a
v0
sin a · t  
The path of particle is given by
2 2
x y
a =1
r0 v0
7.14. A particle of mass m is executing simple harmonic motion about its
equilibrium position with an amplitude a. During oscillation when it is at
a distance x from the equilibrium position the particle receives a blow in
the direction of motion and as a consequence of that its velocity becomes
1.5 times the velocity at that point. Find the new amplitude of the particle.
Solution: The velocity in simple harmonic motion is given by
v =  . a2  x2
As a result of receiving the blow the velocity becomes 1.5v.
or 1.5v =  . A2  x2 ; A is the new amplitude of motion.

or 1.5 . a2  x 2 = A2  x2
2.25 a2 – 2.25 x2 = A2 – x2
or A = 2.25 a 2  1.25 x 2
7.15. A particle of mass m performs simple harmonic motion with an
amplitude a. The angular frequency of oscillation is . In the state of
oscillation when it is at a distance x from the mean position an impulse I is
given to the particle in the same direction. Find the new amplitude of
oscillation.
Solution: The velocity of a particle executing simple harmonic motion is
given by
v =  · a2  x 2
Now I = mv 
I
v  =
m
I
or v + v = v + =  · A2  x2
m
v I
+ = A2  x 2
 m
2
 I 
or  a2  x 2 + = A2 – x2
 m 
2
 I 
or A= x2 +  + a2  x 2 
 m 
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 375
7.16. A particle of mass m starts moving from a point where x = x0 with an
initial velocity u along a straight line under the action of an attraction force
m2x toward a point O lying on the line where x is the distance from O.
Find the displacement.
Solution: Here acceleration and displacement are inter related by the
equation
Acceleration = –2 · x
This is the case of simple harmonic motion.
Let the solution be
x = A sin t + B cos t
dx
at t = 0, x = x0 and = u (given)
dt
Now B = x0
dx
= A  cos t – B cos sin t
dt
u = A
u
A =

u
x = x0 cos t + sin t

7.17. Describe the simple harmonic motion when the displacements are
3 3
0, cm and  cm at t1 = 0, t2 = 2 sec and t3 = 3 sec.
2 2
Solution: Let the equation of the simple harmonic motion be
x = a sin (t + )
o = a sin ( + )  = – 
3
= a sin (2 + )
2
= a sin 
3
Similarly  = a sin (3 + )
2
= a sin 2
3
 = 2 cos  · a sin 
2
3
= 2 cos  ·
2
3
 cos  = 
2
5
or =
6
376 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

3 5
Now = a sin  a = 3 cm
2 6
 5 
 x = 3 sin  ·t  
 6 
5
= 3 sin (t – 1) cm
6
7.18. A particle moves simple harmonically along a straight line. It starts
from equilibrium without any initial velocity and travells a distance l1 in
the first second and l2 in the second second in the same direction. Find
the amplitude of oscillation.
Solution: Let the equation of motion of the particle be
x = a (1 – cos t); a = amplitude
In view of the conditions given
l1 = a (1 – cos )
l1 + l2 = a (1 – cos 2) = 2 a sin2 
2
 l1  l1 + l 2
 1  a  + 2a = 1
 
2
l 2 l l +l
1 + 12 – 1 + 1 2 = 1
a a 2a
l 12 3l1 + l 2
– =0
a 2
2 l12
or a=
3 l1  l2
7.19. A particle oscillates simple harmonically along x axis. At times t, 2t
and 3t it is located at a distance a, b and c respectively from the equilibrium
position. Find the period of oscillation.
Solution: In the light of equation x = A sin t we have
a = A sin t
b = A sin 2t
c = A sin 3t
Now a + c = A [sin t + sin 3t]
= 2 A sin 2t cos t
= 2b cos t
a+c
t = cos–1  
 2b 
2 t a+c
= cos–1  
T  2b 
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 377
2 t
or T =
a+c 
cos 1  
 2b 
7.20. A particle oscillating simple harmonically has velocities v1, v2 and v3
respectively when it is at a distance of x1, x2 and x3 from the equilibrium
position. Find its period of oscillation.
Solution:
v12 = 2  a  x 1  , v 22 = 2  a  x 2  and v 23 = 2  a  x 3 
2 2 2 2 2 2

v12 v 22 v 23
x1 x2 x3 = 2  a 2  x 12  (x2 – x3) + 2  a 2  x 22  (x3 – x1)
1 1 1
+ 2  a  x 3  (x1 – x2)
2 2

= 2  a 2  x2  x3  + a 2  x3  x1  + a 2  x1  x2   x12 x2

+ x12 x3  x22 x3 + x22 x1  x32 x1 + x32 x2 

= 2 [(x1 – x2) (x3 – x1) (x2 – x3)]

 x1  x2   x3  x1   x2  x3 
T = 2 ·
v12 v22 v32
x1 x2 x3
1 1 1

7.21. A particle of mass m is executing simple harmonic motion along

x axis under the action of a force F = – kx with a period of 16 sec. In the
course of motion it crosses the equilibrium position at t = 2 sec and acquire
a velocity of 4 m/sec at t = 4 sec. Find (1) the equation of motion (ii) the
amplitude of oscillation.
Solution: m · acceleration = – kx
k
 =
m
Let the equation of motion be x = a sin (t – 2) where a = amplitude of
motion.
dx
Now = a cos  (t – 2)
dt
4 = a  cos 2
4
a =
 cos 2
378 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

2 2 
= = =
T 16 8
4
a =
 1
·
8 2

32 2
=

32 2 
x = sin (t – 2)
 8
7.22. A particle of mass m is located in a unidimensional potential where
the potential energy of the particle depends on the coordinate x as U(x)
a b
= 2  . Find the period of small ocillations that the particle executes
x x
about the equilibrium position.
Solution: The particle executes motion about the position of minimum
energy.
dU 2a b 2a
=  3 + 2 = 0 or x =
dx x x b
a b
Now U= – ; p = displacement
 2a 
2
 2a 
 + p  + p 
 b   b 
dU
F = m × acceleration = –
dp
2a  3b  b  2b 
= 3 
1 p – 2 
1 p
8a  2 a  4a  2 a 
b3 b2
b4
m × acceleration =  ·p
8 a3
b4
 acceleration =  · displacement
8 ma 3
2 b2
= =
T 2a · 2ma
4 a
or T = 2 ma
b2
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 379
7.23. Two particles executes simple harmonic motion of same amplitude
and frequency along a straight line. They pass one another, when going in
opposite direction each time their displacement is half of their amplitude.
Find the phase difference between them.
Solution: The equation of motion of the two particles is given by
y1 = a sin t and y2 = a sin (t + )
a
Now = a sin t
2
t = 30°
1
= sin t cos  + cos t sin 
2
1 1 3
= cos  + sin 
2 2 2
1 = cos  + 3 1  cos  
2

(1 – cos )23 (1 – cos2 )

=
1 – 2 cos  + cos2 3 – 3 cos2 
=
4 cos2  – 2 cos  – 20 =
4 cos2  – 4 cos  + 2 cos  – 2 0 =
4 cos  ( cos  – 1) + 2 (cos  – 1)0 =
(4 cos  + 2) (cos  – 1)0 =
cos 1 or  = 0
=
1
cos  =  or  = 120°
2
7.24. Find the average value of the potential and kinetic energy of a
particle executing simple harmonic motion. When (i) the averaging is
done with respect to position over one period (ii) the averaging is done
over one period.
Solution:
(i) Let the force acting on the particle be F = –Kx
Now m × acceleration = – K · displacement
K
 =
m
Let the equation of motion of the particle be
x = A cos t; A = amplitude of oscillation
1
U = Potential energy = Kx2
2
380 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

1 A 1
Average value of potential energy = U av =
2A  A 2
Kx 2 dx
KA 2
=
6
1
Total energy of the particle = KA2
2
 Average value of kinetic energy = K ·E av
1 A 1 KA 2
=  K  A 2  x 2  dx =
2 A A 2 3
1 T1 2
T 0 2
(ii) U av = KA cos2 t · dt

1 KA 2 T
1+ cos 2 t  dt
2 2T  0
=

KA 2
=
4
1 T1
T 0 2
K · E av = KA 2 sin 2 t ·dt

KA 2 T KA 2
 
4T  0
= 1  cos 2  t dt =
4
7.25. A weightless wooden stick whose one end is fixed at O is kept
horizontal (Fig. 7.2). A m = 0.5 kg load is applied at the other end produces
a depression of  = 1 cm. The stick is further depressed a little and released.
Find the period of oscillation.
Solution: Let c be the twisting couple per unit depression then in
equilibrium, we have
c ·  = mgl; l = length of the stick
Let the stick be further depressed by y then torque is given by
mgl – c ( + y) = – cy
The equation of motion is given by
d2  y 
– c · y = m · l2 ·  
dt 2  l 
d2y
or ml · = – cy
dt 2
d2 y g Fig. 7.2
= – ·y
dt 2 
2 g
= =
T 
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 381


 T = 2 .
g
On substituting the values of g and  we have
102
T = 2  3.14 ·
9.8
2 × 3.14
=
31.30
= 0.2 sec
7.26. A point particle of mass 0.1 kg is executing simple harmonic motion
of amplitude of 0.1 m. When the particle passes through the mean position,
its kinetic energy is 8 × 10–3 Joule. Obtain the equation of motion of this
particle if the initial phase of oscillation is 45°. (Roorkee 1991)
Solution: Let the equation of simple harmonic motion be
y = a sin (t + )
dy
Velocity = a  cos (t + )
dt
When the particle passes through the mean position its velocity is
maximum and is equal to a.
1
Now m · 2 a2 = 8 × 10–3 J
2
1
× 0.1 × 2 × 0.12 = 8 × 10–3
2
= ± 4
 Required equation is y = 0.1 sin (± 4t + /4) meter
7.27. A cylindrical piece of wood of mass m and area of cross-section A is
floating erect in a liquid density  (see Fig. 7.3). It is pressed down slightly
and then released. Show that its motion is simple harmonic, and calculate
the time period of this motion.
Solution: Let the cylinder be pressed
vertically through a depth y. The volume
of liquid displaced by it is given by
V = Ay
Upward thrust = weight of liquid
displaced = A  g y
This force is acting vertically upward,
i.e., opposite to the displacement y.
The equation of motion of the
cylinder is given by Fig. 7.3
382 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

d2 y
m = –Agy
dt 2
d2 y Ag
or 2 =– ·y
dt m
d2 y
This acceleration is proportional to the displacement y. The
dt 2
motion of cylinder is therefore simple harmonic.
Ag
Now =
m
m
T = 2 Ag
7.28. The graduated cylindrical stem of a lactometer has an area of cross-
section A = 2 × 10–3 m2. Its mass m including the mass of the lead shots
confined in a spherical space at its bottom is 100 g. It is immersed in water
of density  = 103 kg/m3 to at a slightly greater depth than actually needed
for equilibrium, and then released. Show that it will execute simple
harmonic motion. Calculate its time period.
Solution: Let the lactometer be pressed to a depth greater than that required
for equilibrium in the vertical direction. Volume of water displaced = Ay.
Upward thrust = A  g y
This force is acting vertically upward, i.e., opposite to the displacement
y.
The equation of motion of the lactometer
is given by
d2 y
m = –Agy
dt 2
d2 y Ag
or 2 =– ·y
dt m
The acceleration is proportional to the
displacement y. The motion is therefore simple
harmonic.
2 A g
Now = = Fig. 7.4
T m
m
 T = 2
Ag
On substituting the values of the various terms occurring in the above
equation, we have
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 383

0.1
T = 2 3
2 10  103  9.8
2 
=  s
14 7
= 0.45 s
7.29. A string of length l = 1 m containing a small particle of mass m = 4 g
at its middle point O is fixed vertically between points A and B (Fig. 7.5).
The string is stretched by a tension T = 9.86 × 10–3 N. The particle at O is
slightly pulled to one side at right angles to the string and let go. Show that
the particle will execute simple harmonic motion. Find its time period.
Solution: The particle of mass m was initially at O. It is displaced up to C
by a distance x. The force acting on the particle in the horizontal direction
2x
is given by F = 2T cos  = 2T ·
l
This force is acting along CO and will bring the
particle to its initial position O. Also, it acts opposite
to the displacement x. The equation of motion of
the particle is given by
md 2 x 4T
=– x
dt 2 l
d2 x 4T
or 2 = – x
dt ml Fig. 7.5
d2 x
The acceleration is proportional to the displacement x. The
dt 2
motion of the particle is therefore simple harmonic.
2 4T
Now = 
t ml
ml
t = 
T
On substituting the values of the terms occurring in the above equation
we have
4  103  1
t = 3.14
9.86  103
2  3.14
= =2s
3.14
384 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

7.30. Two non-viscous, incompressible and immiscible liquids of densities

 and 1.5  are poured into two limbs of a circular tube of radius R and
small cross-section kept fixed in a vertical plane as shown in the Fig. 7.6.
Each liquid occupies one fourth the circumference of the tube. (a) Find
the angle  that the radius vector to
the interface make with the vertical in
equilibrium position. (b) If the whole
liquid is given a small displacement
from the equilibrium position, show
that the resulting oscillations are
simple harmonic. Find the time
period of these oscillations.
(IIT 1991)
Solution:
(a) In equilibrium we have
Fig. 7.6
1h1g = 2h2g + 1h3g
1.5  R (1 – sin ) = R (sin  + cos ) + 1.5 R (1 – cos )
or 2.5 sin  = 0.5 cos 
1
 = tan–1   = 11.3°
5
(b) Displacement of the liquid is given by
y=R
Change in height of liquid column = h = R [sin ( + ) – sin ]
h = R {[sin  cos  – cos  sin ] – sin ]
= R  cos ; here cos  = 1 and sin  = 
y
Restoring force = – 2.5  A R g cos  · ; A = area of cross-section
R
= – 2.5  A g cos  · y
2.5  A g cos  = k (force constant)
F = m × acceleration = – ky
K 2
= 
m T
m
 T = 2
2.5  A g cos 
2R
m = A· [1.5  + ] = 1.25  R 
4
R
T = 2
2 g cos 
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 385
cos 11.3° = 0.98
R
T = 2 = 2.54 R
2  9.8  0.98
7.31. One end of a long metallic wire of length L is tied to the ceiling. The
other end is tied to a massless spring of spring constant K. A mass m hangs
freely from the free end of the spring. The area of cross-section and the
Young’s modulus of the wire are A and Y respectively. Find the time period
with which mass m will oscillate if it is slightly pulled down and released.
(IIT 1993)
Solution: F = KC y
Where KC is the total force constant and y is total elongation
y = y1 + y2
y1 = elongation of the spring
y2 = elongation of the wire
F
y1 =
K
FL
Y =
Ay2
FL
 y2 =
AY
F FL
y = +
K AY
 AY  KL 
=  F
 AKY 
 AKY 
F=  y
 AY  KL 
 AKY 
m × accelerationn = –  y
 AY  KL 
2 AKY
= 
T m  AY  KL 
m  AY  KL 
T = 2
AKY
7.32. Two identical balls A and B each of mass 0.1 kg are attached to two
identical massless springs. The spring-mass system is constrained to move
inside a rigid smooth pipe bent in the form of a circle as shown in Fig. 7.7.
The pipe is fixed in a horizontal plane. The centres of the balls can move
in a circle of radius 0.06 m. Each spring has a natural length of 0.06 m
and force constant 0.1 N/m. Initially both the balls are displaced by an
386 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

angle  = /6 radiation with respect to diameter PQ of the circle and released
from rest. (a) Calculate the frequency of oscillation of the Ball B. (b) What
is the total energy of the system? (c) Find the speed of ball A when A and B
are at the two ends of the diameter PQ. (IIT 1993)
Solution:
(a) The reduced mass m of the
system is given by
0.1  0.1
m= = 0.05 kg
0.1  0.1
Combined force constant
K = K1 + K2 = 0.1 + 0.1 = 0.2
Frequency of oscillation
1 K
n=
2 m
1 0.02 1 Fig. 7.7
=  Hz
2  0.05 
1 1
(b) E = K1 y2 + K2 y2
2 2
where y = 2R = 2R/6 = 2 × 0.06 × /6 = 0.02 m
1
Energy E = [0.1 + 0.1] × (0.02 )2
2
= 0.1 × (0.02 )2
= 3.94 × 10–4 J
1 1
(c) mv 2 + mv 2 = 3.94 × 10–4
2 2
mv 2 = 3.94 × 10–4
3.94
v =  102
0.1
= 6.277 × 10–2 m/s
7.33. A solid cylinder of mass M is attached to a horizontal massless
spring of force constant K so as to roll without slipping along a horizontal
surface as shown in the Fig. 7.8. The spring is stretched by x and released
show that the centre of mass of the cylinder executes simple harmonic
3M
motion of period T = 2 .
2K
Solution:
1 1 1
Total energy = Mv 2 + I 2 + Kx2
2 2 2
Fig. 7.8
= Constant
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 387
3 1 1 1 1 1
Mv 2 + Kx2 = constant; I 2 = · Mr 22 = Mv 2;
4 2 2 2 2 4
r = radius of the cylinder
On differentiation
3 dv
Mv · = – kx · v
2 dt
dv 2K
acceleration = = · displacement
dt 3M
Hence the centre of mass will execute S.H.M.
2 2K
= 
T 3M
3M
 T = 2
2K
7.34. An ideal gas is enclosed in a vertical cylindrical container and supports
a freely moving piston of mass M. The piston and the cylinder have the
same area of cross-section A. Atmospheric pressure is P and when the
piston is in equilibrium, the volume of the gas is V. The piston is now
displaced slightly from the equilibrium position and left. Assuming that
the system is completely isolated from its surroundings, show that the
piston executes simple harmonic motion and find the frequency of
oscillation. (IIT 1981)
Solution: P and V are, respectively, the pressure and volume of the gas
enclosed in the cylinder-piston system under conditions of equilibrium
(Fig. 7.9). Let the piston be pressed through a depth y. This will cause an
increase of pressure and decrease in volume. Let the new pressure and
volume P + dP and V – dV respectively. The process is adiabatic since the
system is completely isolated.
In an adiabatic process,
PV  = constant
On differentiating the above, we have
dP · V  +  P · V  – 1 · dV = 0 y

P P
or dP = – dV   · A·y
V V
Restoring force = F = dP · A
P 2
F=– A y Fig. 7.9
V
d2 y P 2
or 2 =– A y
dt MV
388 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

d2 y
The acceleration is proportional to displacement y. Therefore the
dt 2
motion is simple harmonic.
 PA 2
 = 2  n=
MV

1  PA 2
n =
2 MV

7.35. Fig. 7.10 shows a large glass bottle B fitted air-tight with a glass
tube at the top. The glass tube has a uniform bore in which a steel ball of
mass m fits perfectly. If the ball is dropped into the tube it begins to oscillate
up and down. Find the period of this oscillation.
Solution: Let A be the area of cross-section of the glass tube and v be the
volume of the bottle. Under the conditions of equilibrium the pressure
inside the bottle when a ball of mass m is dropped is given by
mg
P = P0 +
A
where P0 is the atmospheric pressure. If now the ball
moves downwards through a vertical distance y the
pressure inside the bottle increases to P + dP. The
equation of motion of the ball is given by
md 2 y
= – AdP
dt 2
The system is completely isolated from the
surroundings. Therefore, the process is adiabatic, in
which the pressure P and volume v are related by
Pv = constant
Fig. 7.10
On differentiating this equation, we have
dP · v +  P · v – 1 · dv = 0
dv
or dP = – P
v
On substituting the value of dP in the equation of motion, we have
md 2 y dv
2
= –AP
dt v
d2 y P 2
or =– A · y; dv = A · y
dt 2 mv
d2 y
The acceleration 2 is proportional to the displacement y; hence the
dt
motion is simple harmonic.
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 389

 PA 2
Now =
mv
mv
 T = 2  PA 2
7.36. An enclosure of length 2l containing a gas has a piston of mass m and
area of cross-section A at its middle. The piston divides the enclosure into
two compartments having equal pressure P and volume V. Keeping the
temperature of the gas constant the piston is slightly displaced to the right
and released (Fig. 7.11). Show that it will execute simple harmonic motion
and calculate the frequency of its oscillation.
Solution: The volume of the gas in each compartment is V = Al and the
pressure of the gas in each compartment = P. On displacing the piston to
the right through a distance x, let the pressures in the first and second
compartments be P1 and P2 respectively.
According to Boyle’s law,
1 2
P1V1 = P2V2 = PV
or P1 (l + x) A = P2 (l – x) A = PlA
Force F acting on the piston = (P2 – P1) A Fig. 7.11

PlA PlA 2 PlA · x

=  
(l  x ) (l  x ) l 2  x 2
2 PVx
= 2
l  x2
This force will bring the piston to its original position. If we assume
that x is very small in comparison l, then we have
2 PVx
F=
l2
Under this condition, the equation of motion of the piston is given by
md 2 x 2PV
=– 2 x
dt 2 l
d2 x 2PV
or 2 =– x
dt ml 2
d2 x PV
The acceleration 2 is proportional to the displacement x since
dt ml 2
is constant. Therefore the piston executes simple harmonic motion.
2PV
Now  = 2  n=
ml 2
1 2PV
n =
2 ml 2
390 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

7.37. A cylinder of length 2l enclosed at both ends contains a gas and a

piston of mass m and area of cross-section A at its middle (Fig. 7.12). The
piston divides the cylinder into two compartments having equal pressure
P and volume V. The piston is slightly displaced to the left suddenly and
released. Show that it will execute simple harmonic oscillation. Find the
frequency of oscillation assuming the processes in the gas to be an adiabatic.
Solution: Volume of the gas V = A · l
Pressure of the gas = P
On displacing the piston to the left
horizontally through a distance x, let P1 and
P2 be the pressures in the first and second
Fig. 7.12
compartment. As the process is an adiabatic,
we have
P1 [(l – x) A] = P2 [(l + x) A] = P (lA)
or P1 (l – x) = P2 (l + x) = Pl 
 l    l  
Force F acting on the piston = (P1 – P2) A = PA     
 l  x   l  x  
2P  Ax
= PA 1  x /l   1  x /l   
 
  l
This force will bring the piston to its equilibrium position. The
equation of motion of the piston is given by
md 2 x  Ax
= – 2P
dt 2 l
d2 x 2 P A
or =– ·x
dt 2 ml
 2 P  A2
= ·x
mV
d2 x
The acceleration is proportional to the displacement x since
dt 2
2 P  A2
is constant. Therefore the piston will execute simple harmonic
mV
motion.
2P  A 2
Now =
mV
A 2P 
n =
2 mV
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 391
7.38. A point of mass M is suspended by a weightless wire of length L and
area of cross-section A. If Y is the Young’s modulus of the material of the
wire, then determine the frequency of simple harmonic motion of the
mass in the vertical direction.
Solution: The suspended mass will elongate the wire by a length l.
According to Hooke’s law,
Mg
Y = L
Al
YAl
or Mg =
L
The weight Mg will be equal to the tension in the wire. Therefore
YAl
T = Mg =
L
On pulling the mass M vertically through a distance y, the tension will
increase. The tension at that instant is given by
AY
T1 = (l  y )
L
AY
Net force acting on the mass = T – T1 = – y
L
The equation of motion of the mass is given by
d2 y AY
M 2 = – ·y
dt L
d2 y AY
or =– ·y
dt 2 ML
d2 y
The acceleration is proportional to displacement y. Therefore
e
dt 2
the mass will execute simple harmonic motion.
YA
Now  =
ML
1 YA
or n =
2 ML
7.39. Show that a particle dropped into a tunnel dug along the diameter
of the earth (see Fig. 7.13) will execute simple harmonic motion. Find its
time period.
Solution: Let a particle of mass m be dropped through the tunnel and let
it be at a distance y from the centre of the earth. For the purpose of
gravitation only the mass of the unshaded portion of the earth will be
392 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

4
effective. The mas of this portion is M' =  y3 ·  where  is the mean
3
density of the earth.
The force of attraction between m
and M´ is given by
GM m
F=– (the force is directed
y2
towards the centre of the earth)
4
or F = – G ·   m y
3
Fig. 7.13
The equation of motion of the particle is given by
2
d y 4
m = –G·  m · y
dt 2 3
d2 y 4
or = – G y
dt 2 3
d2 y
The acceleration 2 is proportional to the displacement y since (4/3)
dt
 G is constant.
Therefore the particle will execute simple harmonic motion.
2 G 
Now  = =2
T 3
3
or T = G

On substituting the mean density of earth  = 5.51 × 103 kg/m3 and

G = 6.67 × 10–11 Nm 2/kg2 in the above, T = 84.2 min.
7.40. Show that a particle dropped into a tunnel AB dug through the earth
(Fig. 7.14) will execute simple harmonic motion. Find its time period.
Solution: Let m be the mass of particle
and O be the centre of the earth. Force
acting on the particle towards the centre
of the earth in mg. Due to the force mg
cos  the particle will move towards B. In
the course of motion its velocity will go
on increasing and it will have the highest
value at C. As it moves from C towards B
its velocity will continuously decrease
and at B its velocity will be zero. At this
stage the component force mg cos  will
act in the direction BA and the particle Fig. 7.14
will start moving up.
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 393
mgy
Thus restoring force = – mg cos  = – ; Re = radius of the earth
Re
md 2 y mg
The equation of motion of the particle is 2 =– ·y
dt Re
d2 y g
or =– ·y
dt 2 Re
d2 y
The acceleration 2 is proportional to the displacement. Therefore
dt
the particle will execute simple harmonic motion.
2 g
Now = 
T Re
Re
or T = 2 =
g
On substituting Re = 64 × 105 m; T = 84.4 min
7.41. A small rectangular board is placed horizontally on two cylinders
spinning about their own axes in the opposite sense (Fig. 7.15a). The axes
are separated by a distance l = 30 cm. The coefficient of friction between
the board and cylinder is k = 0.15. Show that the board will perform simple
harmonic motion. Find its time period.

Fig. 7.15a
Solution: Let P 1 and P 2 be the
pressures of the board on the
respective cylinders (Fig. 7.15b).
The friction forces acting on the
board are given by
F1 = k P1 and F2 = k · P2
On displacing the board to the
left through a small distance x, the Fig. 7.15b
two pressures P1 and P2 will be
represented as
l /2  x  mg l /2  x  mg
P1 = and P2 =
l l
where mg = weight of the board.
394 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

The resultant force acting on the board is given by

2 k · mg x
F = F1 – F2 = k (P1 – P2) =
l
It is evident from the Fig. 7.15b that the resultant force will be opposite
to the displacement x.
The equation of motion of the board is given by
md 2 x 2k · g
2 =– · x ·m
dt l
d2 x 2kg
or 2 =– ·x
dt l
d2 x
The acceleration 2 is proportional to the displacement x. Therefore
dt
the board will execute simple harmonic motion.
2 2kg
Now = 
T l
l
or T = 2
2kg
2l
=
kg
On substituting the values of l, k and g, we get
2  0.3
T = 3.14
0.15  9.8
= 2.006 s
= 2s
7.42. The right arm B of a uniform-bore U-tube of cross-sectional area
A = 0.6 cm2 makes an angle  = 60° with the vertical. Mercury of mass
m = 306 g is introduced in it. If the mercury in one limb is depressed and
then released, show that it will perform simple harmonic oscillations. Find
its time period.
Solution: On pressing the mercury in column A through a depth y the
mercury in column B rises vertically through a distance y cos . In column
B there is an additional mercury column of length y (1 + cos ). When the
pressed mercury level is set free the entire mercury column starts oscillating.
Restoring force = – Ay (1 + cos )  g
where A = area of cross-section of the tube
 = density of mercury
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 395
The equation of motion is
md 2 y
= – A  g (1 + cos ) y
dt 2
d2 y A g
or 2
=– 1  cos   y
dt m
d2 y
The acceleration is therefore
dt 2
proportional to the displacement. The motion
is therefore simple harmonic.
A  g 1  cos  
Now =
m
m Fig. 7.16
or T = 2 A  g 1  cos  
On substituting the values of various terms,
306
T = 2 × 3.14 0.6  13.6  980(1  1/2) (all in the CGS system)

= 1.003 s
= 1s
7.43. Two identical and massless threads of length l = 120 cm hold a thin
and uniform rod of mass m = 2.0 kg horizontally as shown in Fig. 7.17a.
On rotating the rod through a small angle about a vertical axis passing
through its midpoint, it is observed that the threads are deviated through
an angle  = 9°. When the rod is released from this position it starts
oscillating. Find (i) the time period of oscillation, and (ii) the rod’s oscillation
energy.
2d

 
T cos 
  T
l l B
O  T sin 
B

O mg

Fig. 7.17a Fig. 7.17b

396 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution:
(i) Let us concentrate on Fig. 7.17b. Let T be the tension in the thread.
The vertical component of tension 2T cos  is balanced by the weight of the
rod and the horizontal component T sin  will provide a couple.
Now 2T cos  = mg; when  is small cos  = 1
mg
T=
2
Restoring couple = T sin  · 2d; BO = d
= T ·  · 2d; sin  = 
BB BB
From the figure,  = and  =
l d
 ·d
 =
l
 ·d d 2
In the light of this, restoring couple = T · 2d · = mg ·
l l
I d2 d 2
The equation of motion of the rod = = – mg
dt 2 l
where I = md2/3 is the moment of inertia of the rod about an axis
passing through O.
Substituting this value of I in the equation of motion,
md 2 d 2  d 2
2 = – mg
3 dt l
d2 3g
or =– ·
dt 2 l
d 2
The angular acceleration 2 is proportional to the angle described
dt
. Therefore it is a case of simple harmonic motion.
2 3g l
Now =  or T = 2
T l 3g
On substituting the value of l = 120 cm,
120
T = 2 × 3.14 = 1.269 s = 1.27 s
3  980
1
(ii) Work done = C  where C is the restorting couple
2
1 d 2 2 1 d 2 2 l 2 1
= mg  mg  mg · l 2
2 l 2 l d2 2
2
1  9  
= × 2.0 × 9.8 × 1.20 ×  
2  180 
= 0.2898 J  0.29 J
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 397
7.44. If the inertial mass mi and the gravitational mass mg of the bob of a
simple pendulum of length l are not the same what will be the time period
of the pendulum ?
Solution: Let us consider a simple pendulum of length l. The mass of the
bob mg. Let the bob be displaced through an angle  (Fig. 7.18). On
resolving its weight into two mutually perpendicular components we have
mg · g cos  parallel to the thread and directed opposite to the tension. The
other component mg · g sin  is perpendicular to the thread. It is this force
which will bring the pendulum to its original position.
Thus the restoring force is given by
F = mg g sin 
x
= – mg g where AB = x
l
The equation of motion of the bob is
d2x g
mi = – mg · ·x
dt 2 l
d2 x mg g
or 2 =– · ·x
dt mi l Fig. 7.18
d2 x
The acceleration 2 is proportional to the displacement x. Therefore
e
dt
the motion is simple harmonic one.
2 mg g
Now =  ·
T mi l
mi l
or T = 2 m · g
g

7.45. What will be the time period of a simple pendulum of length l = 1 m

which hung against a wall inclined at angle  = 45° to the horizontal.
Solution: Let l be the length of the pendulum and m the mass of the bob.
Let it be displaced to a position A (Fig. 7.19).
Restoring force = mg sin  cos 
x
= – mg sin  ·
l
The equation of motion of the bob x A
is given by 

md 2 x mg sin  · x mg cos 
mg
=–
dt 2 l Fig. 7.19
398 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

d2 x g sin 
or 2 =– ·x
dt l
2 g sin 
 = 
T l
l
 T = 2 g sin 
On substituting the values of l,  and g, we have
1 2 1.41
T = 2 × 3.14 = 2 × 3.14 ×
9.8 9.8
= 2.38 s
7.46. A simple pendulum of length l = 1 m is properly placed on a small
cart rolling down a frictionless plane inclined at an angle  = 30° with the
horizontal. Find out the time period of oscillation of the pendulum.
Solution: As the cart rolls down the inclined plane, the force mg sin 
provides a translational motion to the pendulum, whereas the force mg
cos  provides an oscillatory motion to it.
Restoring force = mg cos  · sin 
x
= – mg cos  · , where x is the displacement of the pendulum
l
d2 x x
or m · = – mg cos  ·
dt 2 l
2
d x g cos 
or 2
=  ·x
dt l
2 g cos 
= 
T l
l
T = 2
g cos 
On substituting the values, we get Fig. 7.20
1 2
T = 2 × 3.14 = 2.157 = 2.16 s
9.8  1.73
7.47. A simple pendulum of length l has its point of suspension S on a
wall which is inclined at an angle  with the vertical. In conditions of
equilibrium the bob of the pendulum lies at B. On displacing the bob, the
thread of the pendulum makes an angle  > . If the bob is released from
this point it moves along the path AB and collides with the wall elastically
at C and returns through the path CBA (Fig. 7.21). Determine the time
period of oscillation of the pendulum.
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 399

Solution: Time taken by pendulum to traverse the path AB = T/4 = l /g
2
where T is the time period of the conventional simple pendulum.
Length of arc BC = l 
Length of the arc AB = l 
For the part BC let the equation of motion of
the bob be
x = a sin  t
Here x is the displacement and is equal to l 
and a is the amplitude equal to l . On substituting
the values of x and a, we have
l  = l  sin t
 2
or sin–1   = ·t Fig. 7.21

  T
T  l 
t = sin 1    sin 1  
2  g 
 l l 
Total time for the path AC is equal to ·  sin 1  
2 g g 
l  1    
 Time period = 2   sin   
g 2   
7.48. Figure 7.22a shows a simple pendulum suspended at a point S,
designed using a thin metallic wire and a hollow metallic sphere of radius
r = 10 cm filled with liquid. The distance between the point of suspension
and the point of oscillation is l = 100 cm. The time period of the pendulum
is T1 = 2 s. Calculate the time period T2 of the pendulum when the liquid
contained in the sphere freezes.
Solution: When the sphere is filled with liquid the pendulum
will execute a translational motion. The equation of motion is
well-known and is given by
md 2 x x
= – mg sin  = – mg ; x = displacement
dt 2 l
2
d x g
or =– ·x
dt 2 l
2 g
Now 1 = 
T1 l
l
or T1 = 2 =2s Fig. 7.22a
g
400 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

when the liquid freezes then it will execute rotational motion. The
equation of motion is given by
I d2
= – mgl sin  = – mgl  (see Fig. 7.22b)
dt 2
where I is the moment of inertia of the solid sphere about an axis passing
through S and is given by
2
I= mr 2 + ml 2 (using the theorem of parallel axes)
5
d 2 gl
 2 =  2
dt l  (2/5)r 2
2 g /l
Now 2 = 
T2 1  (2/5)(r /l )2

1  (2/5)(r /l )2
or T2 = 2
g /l
On substituting the values of r, g and l, we have
1  (2/5)  (1/100)
T2 = 2 × 3.14
9.8 Fig. 7.22b

1  (1/250)
= 2 × 3.14 ×
9.8
251
= 2 × 3.14 × 250  9.8 = 2.01 s
7.49. A simple pendulum suspended at a point S is designed using a non-
conducting thread and a hollow metallic sphere of mass m = 49 g lying
above a large horizontal conducting platform at a height h = 15 cm (see
Fig. 7.23). On imparting a charge Q to the sphere the time period of the
pendulum is reduced by  = 2.5 times that in the absence of the charge.
Calculate the amount of charge imparted to the sphere.
Solution: Let l be the length of the pendulum. Had there been no charge
on the ball the time period of the pendulum would be
ml
T1 = 2  mg
After a charge Q is imparted to the sphere, the conducting plane will
provide an electrical image of the charge, i.e., it will provide a charge – Q at
a distance h below the surface of the conducting plane. Thus net downward
force acting on the sphere is
1 Q2
F = mg + · 2
4 o 4h
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 401

ml
The new time period T2 = 2
1 Q2
mg  · 2
40 4h
Now T1 =  · T2 (given)

l ml
or 2 =  · 2
g 1 Q2
mg  · 2
40 4h
Fig. 7.23
Q2
or mg + = 2 · mg
4  0 · 4h 2
or Q = 4h 0 mg  2  1
On substituting the values of the various terms, we have
22
Q = 4 × 0.15  8.85  1012  49  103  9.8  (6.25  1)
7
= 5.02 C
7.50. In the arrangement shown in Fig. 7.24 a disc of mass M = 500 g and
radius r = 20 cm is pivoted at O and is capable of rotating about an axis
passing through it. One end of a tightly wound thread is attached to the rim
of the disc and the other to a mass M' which is balanced against a point
mass m = 200 g placed at the rim of the disc at an angle  = 30° with the
vertical. If the mass M' is pulled down a little and then released the disc
starts oscillating. Find out the period of oscillation.
Solution: The two masses m and M' are related to
each other by the equation M' gr = mgr sin  or
M' = m sin . Let the mass M' be pulled down a
little. The mass m moves up through a small angle
 with respect to the reference line OB. According
to the law of conservation of energy we have
1 1 1 1
mr 22 + · Mr22 + M'r 22
2 2 2 2
= M'gr sin  – mgr [cos  – cos ( + )]
1 1 1
or mr 22 + Mr 22 + m sin  · r 22 = mgr Fig. 7.24
2 4 2
[(sin  · sin  – cos  + cos  cos  – sin  sin )]
1 1 1
or mr 22 + Mr 22 + m sin  r 22 = mgr (cos  cos  – cos )
2 4 2
402 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

On differentiating the above equation with respect to t, we have

 2 1 2  d d
 mr   Mr   m sin  r  
2
= – mgr sin  · cos  · ; =
 2  dt dt
d
or [Mr + 2 mr (1 + sin )] = – 2mg cos  · ; sin  =  when  is small.
dt
The angular acceleration d/dt is proportional to the angle described
(). Therefore, this is a case of simple harmonic motion.
2 2 mg cos 
Now 0 = 
T Mr  2mr (1  sin )
Mr  2mr (1  sin )
or T = 2
2 mg cos 
On substituting the values of the various terms we have
0.5  0.2  2  0.2  0.2  1.5
T = 2 × 3.14
2  0.2  9.8  3/2
0.5  0.6
= 2 × 3.14
9.8  1.73

1.1
= 2 × 3.14
9.8  1.73
= 1.6 s
7.51. A block of mass m = 200 g is attached with two springs of force
constant k1 = 1.06 N/m and k2 = 0.9 N/m, as shown in Fig. 7.25. On displacing
the block towards the right and set free, it starts oscillating. Find the period
of oscillation, neglecting friction.
Solution: Let the block of mass m
m
be displaced towards the right
k1 k2
through a distance x. The restoring
force developed in the two springs
is given by
Fig. 7.25
F1 = – k1x and F2 = – k2 x
Net restoring force = F = F1 + F2 = – (k1 + k2) x
The equation of motion of the block is given by
md 2 x
= – (k1 + k2) x
dt 2
d2 x  k  k2  x
or 2
=  1
dt m
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 403

d2 x
The acceleration is proportional to the displacement x. Therefore
dt 2
the block will execute simple harmonic motion.
2 k  k2
Now =  1
T m
m
or T = 2
k1  k2
On substituting the values we have
0.2 1
T = 2 × 3.14 = 2 × 3.14 = 2.0 s
1.06  0.9 9.8
7.52. A block of mass m = 200 g falls from a height of h = 9.8 cm on the pan
of a spring balance (Fig. 7.26). The mass of the pan and the spring is
negligible. The block gets stuck to the pan and starts oscillating simple
harmonically in the vertical direction. Find the amplitude and energy of
oscillations. Force constant of the spring of the balance k = 1960 N/m.
mg
Solution: Compression x' in spring with weight mg =
k
After travelling a distance h the block of mass m touches the pan of the
spring balance, sticks to it, and brings about a compression of x in the
spring.
In view of the conservation of energy, we have
1
mg (h + x) = kx2
2
2mg 2mgh
or x2 – ·x =0
k k
mg 1 4m2 g 2 8mgh
or x =  
k 2 k2 k
mg mg 2hk
or x =  1
k k mg
Fig. 7.26
Amplitude of oscillation A = x – x'
mg mg 2hk mg
=  1 
k k mg k
mg 2hk
= 1
k mg
404 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

On substituting the values of h, m, g and k, we have

0.2  9.8 2  9.8  102  1960
A= 1
1960 0.2  9.8
= 10–3 × 197 = 1.4 cm
1
Energy of oscillation E = mgh + k x´2
2
2
1  mg 
= mgh + k 
2  k 
m2 g 2
= mgh +
2k
 mg 
= mg  h  
 2k 
On substituting the values of various terms, we get
 0.2  9.8 
E = 0.2 × 9.8  9.8  102  
 2  1960 
= 19.3 × 10–2 J
7.53. One mole of a Vander Waal’s gas whose constant b is known is
enclosed in a vertical cylinder and supports a freely moving piston of
mass M. The piston and the cylinder have the same area of cross-section S.
Calculate the period of oscillations of small amplitude under the
assumption that the compression and rarefaction takes place at a constant
temperature T = 2TC and the gas volume under equilibrium is equal to 3b.
Solution:
 a  R  2  8a
 P  2  (3b – b) =
 9b  27 Rb
 a  8a
P  2  =
 9 b  27 b2
5a
or P = = 5PC where PC = critical pressure
27b 2
 a 
Further  P  2  (v – b) = RT
 v 
a ab
Pv + – Pb – 2 = RT
v v
On differentiating we have
a 2ab
Pdv + vdp – 2 dv – bdp + 3 dv = 0
v v
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 405

 a 2ab 
(v – b) dp = –  P  2  3  dv
 v v 
 5a a 2ab 
2bdp = –  2
 2   dv
 27 b 9b 27 b3 
4a
= dv
27b2
2a 2a
dp =  dv =  · S · y ; y = vertical displacement.
27b3 27b 3
2aS 2 y
Force = M × acceleration = dp · S = 
27b3
5aS
Under equilibrium = Mg
27b 2
2Sg · y
 acceleration = 
5b
acceleration is proportional to displacement
2 2Sg
= 
T 5b
5b
or T = 2
2Sg
7.54. A sphere of mass m = 5 kg is suspended from the dome of a hall by a
light inextensible string of length g/4 m. The sphere has been moved along
x axis upto a distance x = A = 30 cm. and a momentum of P = 1.00 kg m/sec
was imparted to it along y axis. Neglecting friction find the path described
by the centre of the sphere.
Solution: The sphere will execute simple harmonic motion of angular
g
frequency  = = 2 rad/sec in the xy plane.
l
Let the equation of motion of the sphere be
x = A sin t and y = B cos t where A = 30 cm
dy 1
Now = velocity along y axis = = 0.2 m/sec = 20 cm/sec
dt 5
dy
= B  = 20 cm
dt
20
B= = 10

x2 y2
or  =1
302 102
The path described will be an ellipse. Fig. 7.27
406 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

7.55. A solid circular thin disc of mass m and radius r is suspended in the
vertical plane about the axis A1A2 passing through its cord. For what value
of x (see Fig. 7.28) the frequency of small oscillation of the disc about this
axis will have the maximum value.
Solution: The equation of motion of the disc is given by
 
mr 2
 mx 2
   = – mgx · sin  = – mgx · 
 4 
gx
 = 2 n = 2 2
r  4x 2
1 gx Fig. 7.28
or n =
 r  4x 2
2

 x 12   1  8x  g
dn 2 1
Now = 0=   
 
 r 2  4x 2 3 2
 
2 2  
1
dx 2 · x r 2
 4 x
 
2 2 2
or – 8x + r + 4x = 0
r
or x = ±
2
7.56. A simple pendulum as shown in the Fig. 7.29 oscillates simple
harmonically. In the state of motion the angle  varies as  = m cos t.
Find the tension in the string at an instant t.
Solution: When the pendulum moves from its
equilibrium position A it acquires a position B at
an instant t.
The equation of motion at B is given by
mv B2
TB – mg cos  = ; l = length of the string.
l
ld
Now vB = l  = = – l  m sin t
dt Fig. 7.29
 TB = mg cos [m cos t] + ml2 m2 sin2 t

7.57. Find the equation of motion of a simple pendulum of length l when

the point of suspension O moves along a horizontal line according to the
law x = a cos  t.
Solution: The restoring force F1 = mg sin  = mg . [For small oscillations]
Torque = mg  · l
Force F2 due to displacement of the point of suspension
= – a 2 m cos  t
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 407
Torque due to force F2 = – a 2 l m cos  t
The equation of motion is given by
ml 2 ·  = – mgl ·  – a 2 ml · cos  t
g a 2
or  = – ·  · cos t
l l
or  + 02  + A cos t = 0
g a 2
where 0 = and A = Fig. 7.30
l l
7.58. A mass m is attached at the end of a cantilever beam of length l.
Neglecting the mass of the beam find the natural frequency of oscillation.
Solution: The mass placed at the end of the cantilever will produce a static
deflection  (see Fig. 7.31) given by
mgl 3
=
3YI
Where Y is the Young’s modulus of the
material of the beam and I is the geometrical
moment of inertia of the beam about the neutral
axis.
Fig. 7.31
g
 = = 2 n

1 g 1 3Y I
or n =  Hz
2  2 ml 3
7.59. A conical object of mass m floats with its axis vertical and vertex
downwards in a tank of water as in Fig. 7.32. In the conditions of
equilibrium the length of the axis of the cone immersed in water is h. When
the object is depressed a little downwards and released it starts oscillating.
Neglecting force due to friction find the period of oscillation.
Solution: In the conditions of equilibrium, we have
1
mg =  r  h  g ;
2

3
m = mass of the conical object
 = density of water
Let it be depressed through y then
1
m × acceleration =  r  h  × acceleration
2

3
= –  r' 2 yg
Fig. 7.32
3g
 acceleration = – · displacement
h
408 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

2 3g
 = 
T h
h
or T = 2
3g
7.60. A uniform solid sphere of radius r and mass m is suspended vertically
downwards from a point P on its surface (see Fig. 7.33). Find (i) the period
of small oscillations in the plane (ii) the equivalent length of a simple
pendulum.
Solution:
(i) Moment of inertia of the solid sphere about P is given by
2 7
I= mr 2 + mr 2 = mr 2
5 5
The equation of motion is given by
7
mr 2  = – mgr sin  = – mgr 
5
5g
 =
7r Fig. 7.33
2 5g
or  = 
T 7r
7r
or T = 2
5g
l
(ii) On comparing it with the equation T = 2 the equivalent length
g
7r
is equal to
5
7.61. What must be the length of a rod suspended from one end so that it
will be a second pendulum on making small vibrations in a plane.
Solution: Consider a rod of mass m and length l suspended from one end
in a vertical plane. If it is rotated through a small angle  from the vertical
then equation of motion is given by
1 l l
ml 2 = – mg · sin  = – mg 
3 2 2
3g 2
 = = = ; T = 2 sec
2l T
22 l = 3g
3g
or l =
2 2
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 409
On putting the values
3  9.8
l=
2  3.142
= 1.49 m
7.62. In a lapse of time of 1 sec. the amplitude of oscillation reduces to
half of its initial value. Calculate the time during which the amplitude
diminishes to 1/10th of its initial value.
Solution:
A = Ao e–t
Ao
= Ao e–
2
or e = 2
or  = 2.303 log102
Ao
Now = Ao e– · ;  = required time
10
e = 10
 = 2.303 log1010
2.303
 =
2.303 log102
1
= = 3.3 sec
0.3010
7.63. One end thin and uniform bar of mass M and length l is attached to
a bob of mass m. The radius of the bob is very small. The other end of the
bob is fixed at O (see Fig. 7.34). Find the period of small oscillations in the
vertical plane.
1 l2
Solution: Moment of inertia I about O = ml 2 + Ml 2 = (M + 3m)
3 3
l
M·  ml
Distance of centre of mass from O = 2
M m
 M  2m  · l
=
2  M  m
The equation of motion is given by
l2  M  2m l · 
(M + 3m) ·  = – (M + m) g ·
3 2  M  m Fig. 7.34

2 3  M  2m  g
= 
T 2  M  3m  l
410 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

2  M  3m  l
or T = 2 
3  M  2m  g
7.64. A cube of side a and mass m is suspended vertically from one of its
edges as shown in Fig. 7.35. Find (i) the period of small oscillations (ii) the
length of equivalent simple pendulum.
Solution:
2
(i) Moment of inertia of the cube about O = ma2
3
Equation of motion
2 a
ma2 ·  = – mg · · sin  ;  = angle from the vertical
3 2 O
3g
 =– ·
2 2a a

2 3g
 =  C
T 2 2a
2 2a
or T = 2
3g
Fig. 7.35
2 2a
(ii) Length of equivalent simple pendulum =
3
7.65. A V tube having a uniform bore of cross-section S is kept vertical as
shown in the Fig. 7.36. The two arms are making an angle  with the vertical.
The tube is filled with water and the total length of water column is equal
to l. If the water level in one of the two arms is displaced a little from its
original position the entire column starts oscillating. Find the period of
oscillation.
Solution: Let the water column be depressed
through y in one arm and let l1 and l2 be the
length of water column in the two arms at that
time then
(l1 sec  + l2 sec ) S  · acceleration
= – 2y S  g
or l sec  · acceleration = – 2g · displacement
2 2g
= 
T l sec 
l sec 
or T = 2
2g Fig. 7.36
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 411
7.66. A disc of mass M = 200 g is pivoted at O and is free to rotate about a
horizontal axis passing through it (Fig. 7.37). A mass m = 20 g and a spring
of force constant k = 1960 N/m are connected by a string passing over the
disc. The string does not slide over it. If the mass m is pulled down a little
and set free the disc starts oscillating. Find out the frequency of oscillation.
Solution: On compressing the spring through a distance x, and energy
(1/2) kx2 is stored in it. The source of this energy in the present arrangement
is the kinetic energy of translation of mass m plus the kinetic energy of
rotation of the disc, i.e.,
1 1 1
mv 2 + I 2 = kx2
2 2 2
where I is the moment of inertia of the disc
about an axis passing through O.
1 1 1 1
or mv 2 + · MR2 2 = kx2
2 2 2 2
1
I= MR2
2
where R is the radius of the disc
 M 2
or  m   v = kx2
 2 
On differentiating the above with respect to
t, we have
Fig. 7.37
 M dv dx
m   · 2v · = 2kx ·
 2  dt dt
dv kx dx
or =– ; = v. The negative sign has been introduced
dt m  M /2 dt
because the acceleration and displacement are in opposite directions.
k
Now 0 =
m  M /2
1 k
or n =
2 m  M /2
On substituting the values of k, m and M we have
1 1960
n=
2  3.14 (20  100) 103
10 490
=
2  3.14 3
= 20.35 c/s
412 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

7.67. A solid cylinder of mass M performs oscillations due to the action of

two springs whose combined force constant is k. Find the period of
oscillations in the absence of sliding.
Solution: On slightly rotating the cylinder about an axis passing through
1
O and perpendicular to the plane of Fig. 7.38, an energy kx2 is stored in
2
the spring. Owing to conservation of energy
1 1
I 2 = kx2
2 2
where I is the moment of inertia of the
cylinder about an axis passing through O.
1 3
I= MR2 + MR2 = MR2 in view of
2 2
theorem of parallel axes. Here R is the
radius of the cylinder.
1 3 1
Now × MR2 2 = kx2
2 2 2 Fig. 7.38
3 1
Mv 2 = kx2; v = 2R 
16 2
On differentiating the above with respect to t, we have
3 dv dx dx
M ·v · = kx · ; v
8 dt dt dt
dv 8k
or =– x since acceleration and displacement are in opposite
dt 3M
directions.
2 8k
Now 0 = 
T 3M
3M
or T = 
2k
7.68. Two solid spheres A and B of mass M1 = 1.5 kg and M2 = 2.5 kg
connected by a spring of force constant k = 60 N/m are slipped on a rod
over which they can slide without friction (Fig. 7.39). When an initial
velocity V = 20 cm/s is imparted to sphere A through external means, the
two spheres start oscillating. Find (i) the angular frequency of oscillations,
and (ii) the amplitude and energy of oscillation.
Solution:
(i) The two masses can be replaced by their reduced mass
M1 M 2
=
M1  M 2
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 413
When a velocity is imparted to mass A there happens to be a
compression x in the spring. According to the law of conservation
of energy,
1 1
 v2 = kx2
2 2
dv dx dx
or v = kx = k xv; =v Fig. 7.39
dt dt dt
dv k
or acceleration =– x
dt 
k 16
 =  60  = 8 rad/s
 15
V 20
(ii) amplitude a =  = 2.5 cm
 8
1 1 15
Energy E = V 2 = × × 20 × 20 × 10–4
2 2 16
= 18.75 m J
7.69. A sphere of mass m = 200 g fixed between two springs of total force
constant k = 28.8 N/m can slide over a frictionless circular rod PQ placed
horizontally. The system rotates with an angular velocity of  = 8 rad/s
about a vertical axis OO' (Fig. 7.40). Show that the mass will execute simple
harmonic motion, and find the period of oscillation. At what value of 
the mass will not oscillate ?
Solution: In the state of rotation of
the system as a whole there are two
forces which act on the sphere:
(i) elastic and (ii) centripetal.
The equation of motion of the
sphere is Fig. 7.40

md 2 x
= – kx + m 2 x; (here x stands for displacement)
dt 2
d2 x k 
or 2 =– 
 2  x
dt m 
2
d x
The acceleration is proportional to the displacement, and
dt 2
therefore the sphere will execute simple harmonic motion.
k
Now 0 =  2
m
414 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

2 2  3.14 2  3.14
T=   = 0.70 s
k /m   2
 28.8/0.2  64 80
The oscillation with stop when T = . This is possible when
k 28.8
=  = 12 rad/sec
m 0.2
7.70. A cylindrical solid block of mass m = 500 g attached to a spring of
force constant k = 30 N/m slides on a horizontal rod fixed on a wall
(Fig. 7.41). The coefficient of friction  between the block and the rod is
0.1. If the block is pressed up to 20 cm from its equilibrium position and
set free, it starts oscillating. Calculate the number of swings the block will
complete before coming to rest, assuming that in one swing it will move
from its equilibrium position to a distance equal to its amplitude or vice
versa. g = 10 m/s2.
Solution: This is a case of damped simple harmonic motion. Due to
damping the amplitude will no longer be constant. Let us assume that the
block moves from one state of amplitude a0 to another of amplitude a1.
Owing to the conservation of energy, we then have
1 2 1
k a0   mg a0  k a12   mg a1
2 2
1
or k  a1  a0  = –  mg (a0 + a1)
2 2

2
2  mg
or a1 – a0 = –
k Fig. 7.41
2  mg
or a1 = a0 –
k
Since the amplitude will be in progression, it can be identified by
following a general expression.
2n  mg
an = a0 –
k
The block will cease to move when an = 0
k a0
i.e., n =
2  mg
The number of swings N = 2n – 1 since during oscillations all
amplitudes except the first will pass through twice the number of swings.
Owing to the friction the amplitude will reduce at a faster rate and finally
the oscillations will cease.
k a0
N= 1
 mg
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 415
On substituting the values of k, a0, , m and g, we have
0  0.2
N=  1 = 11
0.1  0.5  10
7.71. A thin uniform rod of mass m and length l with one end fixed at a
point S is kept vertical with the help of two springs whose combined force
constant is k (Fig. 7.42a). The rod is displaced a little to the right and set
free. It starts oscillating simple harmonically. Find the frequency of
oscillation.
x
Solution: In view of Fig. 7.42b we have =  where x is the distance
l
through which compression occurs during motion of the rod.

Fig. 7.42a Fig. 7.42b

Id 2  l
Now = – mg sin  cos  · – kxl; I is the moment of inertia of
dt 2 2
the rod about an axis passing through one end.
ml 2 d 2   l 
or · 2 =   mg ·   kl 2   ; cos  = 1; sin  =  when  is small.
3 dt  2 
d 
2
3g  2kl 
 2 =– 1  
dt 2l  mg 
d2
Angular acceleration is proportional to the angle described .
dt 2
Therefore, this is a case of simple harmonic motion.
1/2 1/2
3g  2kl  3g  2kl 
Now  = 2n = 1   or n = 1  
2l  mg  4 l  mg 
7.72. A spring of force constant K, length l and mass m is suspended from
the point O as shown in the figure 7.43. A mass M is attached at the free
end and set in motion. Find the period of oscillation.
416 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution: Let a be amplitude and  be the angular velocity. Consider an

element of length dx at a distance x from O.
Velocity of mass M in the mid position = a
x
Velocity of the element in the mid position =  a 
l
Kinetic energy of the element in the mid position
2
1 m  x 
=  · dx   · a 
2 l  l 
Fig. 7.43
Total kinetic energy of the spring in the mid position
1m 2 2 l 2
=  a  x dx
2 l3 0

1 mv 2
= m 2 a 2 
6 6
1 1 1
Total kinetic energy of the system = Mv 2  mv 2   M  m/3  v 2
2 6 2
This energy is balanced by the potential energy stored in the spring
1 1
 M  m/3  v 2 = Ky 2
2 2
(M + m/3) v · A = K · y · v; A = acceleration
K
A =– · displacement
 M  m/3
2 K
 = 
T M  m/3
M  m/3
T = 2
K
7.73. A thin bar of mass m and length l is hinged at O. The bar is supported
in a horizontal position of equilibrium by a spring of force constant K
attached between O' and A (see Fig. 7.44). The end of the bar A is displaced
downwards and then released. It executes oscillatory rotation about the
axis through O. Find the period of oscillation.
Solution: Let  be the angular displacement. The upward reaction force
exerted by the spring on the end A is equal to.
mg
F=  Kl
2
The equation of motion is given by
1 l  mg 
ml 2 ·  = mg ·    Kl  · l
3 2  2 
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 417
1 2
or ml ·  = – K l 2 
3
3K
or  =– ·
m
angular acceleration = – 2 angle described
2 3K
 = 
T m
m
T = 2
3K
Alternative Solution:
Extension in the spring = l  Fig. 7.44
According to conservation of energy
1 1 1
· ml 2 · 2 + K l2 2 = Constant
2 3 2
On differentiation we have
1
ml 2 ·  ·  = – K l 2  · 
3
3K
or  =– ·
m
3K
 =
m
m
or T = 2
3K
7.74. A thin bar of mass m, length l hinged at O carries a small sphere of
mass M as shown in the Fig. 7.45. The bar is supported in a horizontal
position by a spring of force constant K attached between the middle point
of the bar A and O'. The bar is displaced downwards and then released. It
executes simple harmonic motion. Find the period of oscillation.
Solution: Let  be the angular displacement of the bar. The extension in
l
the spring is equal to .
2
Net moment of inertia of the system
 ml 2 
I=   Ml 2 
 3 
Taking the moment about O we have
 ml 2  l l
  Ml 2   =  K · ·
 3  2 2
418 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

3 M  m K
 =– 
3 4
3K
=– ·
4  3M  m 
2 3K
= 
T 4  3 M  m Fig. 7.45

3 M  m
or T = 4 
3K
7.75. A thin bar AB of length l and mass m is hinged at A. It is kept horizontal
with the help of two springs of force constant K1 and K2 attached to the
bar at C and D lying at a respective distance of l1 and l2 from A. The bar is
displaced downwards and released. Find the period of harmonic
oscillations.
Solution: Let  be the angular displacement of the bar. The elongation in
the two springs are l1 and l2 (see Fig. 7.46).
Taking the moment about A we have
ml 2
·  = – [K1l1  · l1 + K2 l2  · l2]
3
3 K 1l12  K 2 l22 
or  =–  ·
ml 2

2 3  K 1l12  K 2 l22 
 = 
T ml 2
ml 2
or T = 2
3  K 1l12  K 2l22  Fig. 7.46

7.76. A T-shaped thin bar of mass m is hinged at C and is kept horizontal

with the help of a spring of force constant K attached to it at O as shown in
the Fig. 7.47. The end of A of the bar is slightly depressed downward and
released. Find the period of rotational oscillations of small amplitude.
m l2
Solution: Moment of inertia of section AB of the bar about D =
3 12
m l2 m
Moment of inertia of AB about C =  · 4l 2
3 12 3
2 m 4l 2
Moment of inertia of the horizontal bar CD about C = ·
3 3
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 419

m  l2 8l 2 
  4l 
2
Total moment of inertia of the bar about C = 
3 12 3 
81ml 2
=
36
Let an angular displacement  be given to the bar. Extension of the
spring = l .
Taking moment about C
81ml 2
· = – K l  · l
36
36 K
 =– ·
81m
2 36 K 2 K
 =  
T 81m 3 m Fig. 7.47
m
T = 3
K
7.77. A small disc of radius r/2 = 5 cm and mass m = 3 kg is supported at
its centre by a thin light rigid rod of length 2r. The other end of the rod is
fixed at O. One end of the two springs each of force constant K = 1900 N/m
is attached to the centre of the rod and the other to points A and B of a
rigid support. The system oscillates as a pendulum. Find (i) the frequency
of oscillation of the system when the rod and the disc are joined together
with a pin L (ii) the frequency of oscillation of the system when the rod
and the disc are not joined (iii) the ratio of the frequency of oscillation in
the two conditions.
Solution: Let the rod be displaced through an angle  from the vertical
then according to conservation of energy we have
1 2 2 1  1 mr 2  1
mg · 2r (1 – cos ) + Kr  +   m · 4r 2  2  Kr 2 2
2 2  2 4  2
= Constant (see Fig. 7.48)
33
or mg · 2r (1 – cos ) + Kr 2 2 + mr 2 2 = Constant
16
On differentiation we have
33
mg · 2r sin  ·  + Kr 2 · 2 ·  = – mr 2 · 2 · 
16
for small angles sin  = 
33
2 (mg + Kr)  = – mr
8
420 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

16(mg  Kr ) 
 =–
33 mr
16(mg  Kr )
2 n =
33 mr

1 4  mg  Kr 
n =
 33mr
On substituting the values
1
1  4  3  9.8  1900  0.1  2
n1 =   = 3 Hz
3.14  33  3  0.1 
(ii) In view of conservation of energy we have Fig. 7.48

33 1 1 mr 2 2
mg · 2r (1 – cos ) + Kr 2 2 + mr 2 2  · · ·  = Constant
16 2 2 4
32
mg · 2r (1 – cos ) + Kr 2 2 + mr 2 2 = Constant
16
On differentiation we have
32
mg · 2r · sin  ·  + Kr 2 2 ·  = – mr 2 · 2
16
16  mg  Kr  
 =–
32mr
16 mg  Kr 
2  n2 =
32 mr

1 4  mg  Kr 
n2 =
 32 mr
On substituting the values we have
1 4  3  9.8  1900  0.1
n2 =
3.14 32  3  0.1
= 3.04 Hz
1
n  33  2
(iii) 2 =  
n1  32 
7.78. A rod of mass m and length l carries a mass M at its one end. While
the other end is attached to a rigid support O. One end of the two springs
of force constants K1 and K2 respectively is attached to rod at a distance
l1 and l2 from O while the other to points A and B as shown in the
Fig. 7.49. The rod is displaced to an angle  from the vertical and then
released. Find the frequency of small oscillations of the system.
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 421

l  m
 M ·l  M  
m·
2  2 l
Solution: Centre of mass from O = 
M m M  m
 
 
Let the rod be displaced through an angle  from the vertical then in
view of conservation of energy we have
 m
M  
 2 1
(M + m) gl (1 – cos ) + K 2l22 2
 M  m 2
1 m 2 2 1
 M   l   K 1l1  = Constant
2 2
+
2 3 2
On differentiation we have
 m  m
gl  M   sin  ·   K 2 l22  ·  +  M   l 2   K 1l12  ·  = 0
 2  3
  m 2
 gl  M  2   K 1l1  K 2l2  
2

   
 =– ; sin  = 
 m  2
 M   l
 3
 m
gl  M    K 1l12  K 2l22
 2
2n =
 m 2
M  l
 3

 m
gl  M    K 1l12  K 2 l22
1  2
or n =
2  m 2 Fig. 7.49
M  l
 3

7.79. A uniform thin bar AB of mass M and length 4r is pivoted at its

centre O. A disc of mass m and radius r is attached at the end B of the bar
(see Fig. 7.50). A spring of force constant K is attached to the bar at C such
that OC = r. The bar is displaced through an angle  from the vertical and
released. Find the frequency of small oscillations.
Solution:
M ·(4r )2 4
Moment of inertia of the bar about O =  Mr 2
12 3
1 2
Moment of inertia of the disc about O = mr  m ·(3r )
2

2
19 2
= mr
2
422 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

4 19 m  2 r2
Net moment of inertia about O =  M   r   8 M  57 m 
3 2  6
Let the bar be displaced through small angle  then the energy
equation of the system is given by
1 1 r2 2
Kr 2 2 – mg · 3r (1 – cos ) = (8M + 57m) ·
2 2 6
On differentiating the above equation we have
r2
Kr 2  ·  – mg · 3r sin  ·  = (8M + 57m) ·
6
 8 M  57m 
(Kr – 3mg)  = r  ; sin  = 
6
 6  Kr  3mg  
=   
 8 M  57m 
1
 6  Kr  3mg   2
= 2  n=  
 8 M  57m 
1 6( Kr  3mg )
n= Fig. 7.50
2 8 M  57m
7.80. One end of a thin light rod of length L = 1 m is attached to a small
ball of mass m = 500 gm whereas its other end to a rigid support O. A
spring of force constant K = 700 N/m is connected between the fixed point
O' and the rod at a distance l = 50 cm below the point of suspension (see
Fig. 7.51). The rod is displaced through a small angle from the vertical and
released. Find the frequency of small oscillations.
Solution: In view of conservation of energy we have
1 1
mgL (1 – cos ) + K l 22 = mv 2
2 2
On differentiation we have
mgL sin  ·  + Kl 2  ·  = mv · a = m  · L2 
 mgL  Kl 2 
 =  2   ; sin  =  for small angles
 mL 
1 mgL  Kl 2
n =
2 mL2
On substituting the values of various terms
we have
1 0.5  9.8  1  700  0.52
n= Fig. 7.51
2  3.14 0.5  1
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 423

1
= 9.8  700  0.5
2  3.14
1
= 359.8
2  3.14
= 3 Hz
7.81. A particle of mass m is attached to three springs of equal force
constant K as shown in the Fig. 7.52. The particle is pushed through x
against the spring A and released. Find the frequency of small oscillations.
Solution: The displacement for the two springs at right angles to each
x
other is equal to
2
According to conservation of energy we have
1 1 x2 1 x2 1
mv 2  K  K = Kx 2
2 2 2 2 2 2
1
or mv2 = Kx2
2
On differentiation we have
m·v·a = 2kx·v
2K
a = ·x
m
2K
 = 2n=
m
1 2K Fig. 7.52
n =
2 m
7.82. In the arrangement shown in the Fig. 7.53 pulley of mass m = 0.5 kg
and radius r = 10 cm is supported by a cord and a spring of force constant
K = 69 N/m. A body of mass M = 1 kg is attached to the centre of the pulley.
Assuming that the cord does not slip find the frequency of the small vertical
oscillations.
Solution: Let the pulley rotates through an angle 
about its centre the energy equation of the system is
given by
1 1 1 1 1
· mr 2 2  mv 2  Mv 2 = K r 2 2
2 2 2 2 2
1
mr 2 2  mr 2 2  Mr 2 2 = K r2 2 ; v = r 
2
2 [M + 1.5 m] = K 2
Fig. 7.53
424 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

On differentiation we have
 [M + 1.5m]  = K ·  · 
 K 
 =  
 M  1.5m 
K
n =
M  1.5m

1 K
n =
 M  1.5m
On substituting the values of various terms we have
1 69
n=
3.14 1  1.5  0.5
= 2 Hz
7.83. A cylinder of mass m and radius r is contrained by a spring of force
constant K to roll up and down an inclined plane as shown in the Fig. 7.54.
Find the frequency of small oscillations of the system when there is no
slipping.
Solution: Let the equilibrium position be at a distance l below the initial
position along the slope. Let the cylinder be displaced through x along
the plane.
The energy equation is given by
1 1 1 1
mg l  x   l  = I 2  mv 2  K  l  x   l 2 
2

2 2 2 2  
mr 
2 2
mgx =  mv 2  K 2lx  x 2 
2
3
mgx = mv  K 2lx  x 
2 2

2
On differentiation we have
mg · v = 3 mv · A + K · 2l · v + 2K x v ; A = acceleration
or mg = 3 mA + K · 2l + 2 Kx
mg cos 60 = Kl
2K
A = – ·x
3m
2K
2n =
3m
1 2K 1 K
n = = Fig. 7.54
2 3m  6m
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 425
7.84. A uniform solid cylinder of mass m and radius r rolls up and down
an inclined plane by a spring of force constant K wraped round the cylinder
as shown in the Fig. 7.55. The cylinder is released from the position where
the spring is unstretched. Find the frequency of small oscillations assuming
that there is no slipping.
Solution: Let the equilibrium position be
at l below the initial position.
The stretched length of the spring = 2l
Taking moment about A
K · 2l · 2r = mg sin 30 · r ;
Spring force = K · 2l
mg
l= Fig. 7.55
8K
velocity v =  · l =  r
The energy equation of the system is given by
l 1 1 1
mg · = mv 2  I  2  K (2l )2
2 2 2 2
l 1 1 mr 2
2l 2
mg · = m · 2 l 2  · 2  2K · l2
2 2 2 2 r
l 3
mg · = m · 2l 2  2Kl 2
2 4
mg 3 3 2 mg mg
= m  l  2K · l  m  .  2K ·
2

2 4 4 8K 8K
1 3m 2 1
or =  
2 32 K 4
1 3m 2
or = 
4 32 K
8K
or  = 2 n 
3m
1 8K
or n =
2 3m
1 2K
=
 3m
7.85. A conducting rod of mass m and length l can side without friction
on two smooth parallel rails PQ and RS. A spring of force constant K is
fixed between the mid-point of the rod and a rigid support as shown in
Fig. 7.56. The ends Q and R of the two rails are connected to a capacitor of
426 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

capacity C. The complete arrangement is placed in a magnetic field of

induction B. When the rod is slightly displaced to the left and released its
starts oscillating. Find the period of oscillation.
Solution: Let the rod moves through dx in time dt then the induced
dx
emf = Bl · = Bvl
dt
Charge q on the capacitor = Bvlc
During its motion towards left the energy equation is
1 q2 1 1 2 Q
 mv 2 = – Kx x P
2 c 2 2 x x x
x K
or (B2l 2c + m) v 2 = –Kx2 C x x x l
x x x x
S
On differentiation we have R
(B2l 2c + m)a = – Kx Fig. 7.56

K
1 =
B l c m
2 2

With this angular frequency it will cover only half the period and time
t1 is given by
1

  B2l 2c  m  2
t1 = =  
1  K 
During its motion toward right the energy equation is
1 q2 1 1
= mv 2  Kx 2
2 c 2 2
or (m – B l c) v = – Kx2
2 2 2

On differentiation we have
(m – B2l 2c) a = – Kx

K
2 =
 m  B 2l 2 c  1

  m  B2l 2c  2
Time t2 for the rest half cycle = =  
2  K 
 2 2 1 1

  B l c  m  2  m  B 2l 2c  2 
T=  
 K
 
  K
 
 
 
7.86. A spring of mass m lies on a smooth table. One end of the spring is
fixed to the rigid support and the other end is pulled with a velocity.
Calculate the kinetic energy of the spring.
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 427
Solution: Consider an element of length dx lying at a distance x from the
fixed point O. (see Fig. 7.57)
2
1 m x 
K.E. of the element = · · dx  · v  ;
2 l l 
l = length of the spring
m 2 l 2
Total kinetic energy E = · v ·  x dx
2l 3 0
Fig. 7.57
1 2
= mv
6
7.87. A cylinder of mass m, radius r and height h, suspended by a spring
whose upper end is fixed by a rigid support, is submerged into water. The
force constant of the spring is K. In equilibrium the length of the cylinder
h
inside the water is . On putting an external mass on the cylinder it has
2
2
been found that it has submerged to of its height. On removing the
3
external mass the cylinder starts moving vertically without any initial
velocity. Find the equation of motion of the cylinder.
Solution: Let the cylinder be displaced by y downwards,
Upward thrust = r2yg
Force due to spring = Ky
Net force = m · acceleration = – [K + r2 g] y
This is the equation of simple harmonic motion.
1
 K   r 2 g 2
=  
 m 
2h h h
amplitude of oscillation =  
3 2 6
h
y= cos t is the equation of motion of the cylinder
6
7.88. A cylinder of mass m, radius r and height h, suspended by a spring
whose upper end is fixed is submerged in water. In the conditions of
1
equilibrium the cylinder sinks to of its height (see Fig. 7.58). At a certain
2
2
moment the cylinder was submerged to of its height and then with no
3
initial velocity started to move vertically. Taking the force constant of spring
as K, density of water as , resistive force of water as –  v, find the equation
of motion of the cylinder.
Solution: Let the cylinder be displaced through y downwards, then
mdv
  K   r 2  g  y  v = 0
dt
428 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

dv K   r 2 g 
or  p 2 y  2  v = 0; p = ,= (i)
dt m 2m
Let the solution of the equation be y = B1e at sin t + B2e at cos t
v = B1 e at · a sin t + B1 e at ·  · cos t + B2 e at · a · cos t – B2e at  sin t
dv
= B1 a2 e at sin t + B1 a  e at cos t + B1 a  e at cos t
dt
– B1 2 e at sin t + B2 a2 e at cos t – B2 a  e at sin t
– B2 a  e at sin t – B2 e at · 2 cos t
dv
On substituting the values of y, v and in
dt
equation (i) and equating the coefficient of
sin t = 0 we have
B1 [a2 – 2 + p2 + 2  a] – B2 · 2 (a + ) = 0
Since B1 and B2 are not equal to zero hence
a = –  and  = p 2  2
h
At = 0 y = (amplitude of oscillation) and
6
v=0
h Fig. 7.58
hence = B2 and B1  + B2a = 0
6
 h
 B1 = ·
 6
h   t t 
y =  e sin p   · t  e · cos p   · t 
2 2 2 2

6  
h p   p 2  2 
= · · e  t  sin p2   2 · t ·  cos p2   2 · t · 
6 p  2
2
 p p 

=
h
·
p
6 p  2
2
· e  t  sin
  
p2  2 · t    ; tan  =

p2  2

7.89. A body of mass m falls from a height h on a pan hanging from a
spring. The body after falling through a height h sticks to the pan. The
body together with the pan starts oscillating. Find (i) the amplitude of
oscillation (ii) the frequency of oscillation (iii) the total energy of the system.
Solution:
(i) Let the spring moves downward through x0 then
1 1
mv 2 = – mg x0 + K x02
2 2
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 429

or K x02 – 2 mgx0 – mv 2 = 0
2 mg  4m2 g 2  4 Kmv 2
x0 =
2K
mg  v2K  mg
=   1 
K  mg2  K
 
mg mg 2K h h
=  1 ;v= 2gh
K K mg
Fig. 7.59
mg  2K h 
x0 = 1  1  
K  mg 
Let the mass together with pan rests at a distance x´0
mg
then x'0 =
K
mg 2K h
Amplitude = x0 – x'0 = 1
K mg
K
(ii)  = 2 n =
m
1 K
n=
2 m
1 m2 g 2  2 Kh  K 1 m2 g 2  2 Kh 
E= m· 1   = 1  
2 K2  mg  m 2 K  mg 
7.90. A thin bar of mass m and length L is hinged at O. The bar is kept
horizontal with the help of a spring of force constant K attached at the end
A (see Fig. 7.60). If the end B of the bar is pressed downwards and released
it starts rotational oscillation. Find the period of oscillation.
Solution:
m 3
Moment of inertia of the bar about O = b  ( L  b)3 
3L 
Equation of motion
m 3
b  ( L  b)3   = – K · b  · b
3L 
= – K b2 

3K b2 L
=
m b 3   L  b  
3
 
Fig. 7.60
430 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

m b 3   L  b  
3
 
T = 2
3 K b2 L

7.91. A bead of mass m slide on a frictionless wire bent in the form of

cycloid with equation
x = a ( – sin ) and y = a (1 + cos )
Find the period of oscillation.

Fig. 7.61
Solution:

1  dx   dy  
2 2

Kinetic energy = m       
2  dt   dt  
 
1
= ma    cos  ·     sin  
2  2 2

2
= ma2 2 (1 – cos )
Potential energy = mgy = mga (1 + cos )
According to conservation of energy
ma22 (1 – cos ) + mga (1 + cos ) = Constant
On differentiation we have
 1  cos    ma 2 2 sin  ·   mga sin  ·  = 0
ma2 · 2 · 
1 g
1  cos    
sin  · 2  sin  = 0
2 2a
cos 
Let us substitute u =
2
du 1 sin  d
=– · ·
dt 2 2 dt
1 1  d2 
2
d 2u   d 
= –  cos ·    sin · 
dt 2 2 2 2  dt  2 dt 2 
 
2
1  d2 1   d 
=– sin · 2  cos ·  
2 2 dt 4 2  dt 
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 431

d 2u gu
The value of  =0
dt 2 4a
2
1  d2 1   d  g 
– sin · 2  cos ·    · cos
2 2 dt 4 2  dt  4a 2
 1  g 
  cot ·  2  cos = 0
2 2 2a 2
 1 sin  g sin   sin 
 ·  2  · = 0; Put cot 
2 1  cos  2 a 1  cos  2 1  cos 
1 g
or 1  cos  
  sin  ·  2  sin  = 0
2 2a
The required equations is therefore
d 2u g
 ·u = 0
dt 2 4a
d 2u g
or 2 = – ·u
dt 4a
2 g
= 
T 4a
a
T = 4
g
7.92. A body of mass m is attached to the end A of a massless beam of
length l through a spring of force constant K2. The other end of the beam
is hinged at O. The beam is kept horizontal with the help of spring of force
constant K1 (see Fig. 7.62a). If the end A is pressed a little in the downward
direction and released it starts oscillating. Find the natural frequency of
oscillation.
Solution: Consider a hypothetical spring of force constant K situated at A
above the spring K2. After the end A depressed let the beam makes an

Fig. 7.62a Fig. 7.62b

432 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

angle  with the horizontal. The forces acting on the springs of force
constants K1 and K are K1b  and K l  respectively. If we take the moment
about O in order to know an equivalent torque then
K1 · b  · b = K · l  · l
b2 K 1
or K=
l2
Thus a hypothetical spring of force constant K placed at A will produce
the same torque as the spring of force constant K1.
Now we have the situation as shown in Fig. 7.62b. The two springs are
stretched by the same force.
F F
Net elongation y = 
K K2
 K l 2  K 1b 2 
y = F 2 2 
 K 1K 2 b 
K 1K 2b 2 · y
Now m × acceleration = –
K 2 l 2  K 1b 2
K1K 2
acceleration = – · displacement
 l
2

m K 1  K 2   
 b 

K 1K 2
 = 2 n 
 l 
2

m K 1  K 2   
  b  

1 K 1K 2
or n =
2  l 
2

m K 1  K 2   
  b  

7.93. A massless rod AB, three springs of force constants, K1, K2 & K3 and a
block of mass m are arranged as shown in the Fig. 7.63. The end A of the
rod is pressed a little and released find the angular frequency of small
oscillations.
Solution: Consider a hypothetical spring of force constant K at O. Let the
beam be depressed at A so that it forms an angle  with the horizontal.
Taking the moment about B
L L
K3 · L  · L = K ·  ·
2 2
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 433
or K = 4K3
This hypothetical spring will now
form a series combination with K 2 .
Equivalent force constant K' is given by
4K2K3
K' =
K2  4K 3
The spring of force constant K´ will
be in parallel combination with K1.
The equivalent force constant Keq is
given by
 4K 2K 3 
Keq =  K 1  
 K 2  4K3  Fig. 7.63
The complete system reduces to a
block of mass m attached to a spring of
force constant Keq
The equation of motion is given by
m · acceleration = – Keq · displacement
K eq
=
m

1  4K 2K 3 
=  K1  
m K 2  4K 3 

7.94. A block of mass m connected to a spring of force constant K slides

down a frictionless incline wedge of angle  and mass M. The wedge lies
on a frictionless surface. Find the angular frequency of wedge and block
system.
Solution: Let l be the position of the block at an instant t and x be the
position of the centre of mass.
The acceleration along the plane is given by
d 2l d 2 x Kl
 · cos  
dt 2 dt 2 m
Net force along the horizontal is zero.
Net momentum along the horizontal is
also zero.
dx dl
 M  m  m cos  · =0
dt dt
Fig. 7.64
434 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

On differentiation
d2x d 2l
 M  m = m cos  ·
dt 2 dt 2
d 2l m · cos2  d 2l K l
 ·  =0
dt 2  M  m  dt 2 m
d 2l K M  m
or  M  m sin 2   =
2 
·l
dt m
d 2l K M  m
or = ·l
dt 2 m  M  m sin 2  

K  M  m
 = 2 n 
m  M  m sin2  

7.95. A massless rod, a block of mass m and a spring of force constant K

are arranged as shown in the Fig. 7.65. Find the frequency of small
oscillations.
Solution: Let the spring be pulled downwards so that the rod makes an
angle  at O then the energy of the system is given by
2
1 1 d 
K l1    m   l2    = constant
2

2 2  dt 
2
 d 
or Kl12 2  m · l22   = constant
 dt 
On differentiation we have
2 K l12  ·   2 ml22 ·  = 0 Fig. 7.65

K l12
or  = – · ·
m l22
l1 K
or  =
l2 m
7.96. A massless bar AB of length L,
three springs of force constant K1, K2
and K3 and a block of mass m are
arranged as shown in the Fig. 7.66.
Find the natural frequency of
oscillation of the system.
Solution: Let y 1 and y 2 be the
displacements at the two ends A and B of
the bar. These displacements are due to Fig. 7.66
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 435
extensions of springs of force constant K1 and K2 respectively. Let y3 be the
displacement due to the spring of force constant K3.
mg mg /2 mg /2
y3 = , y2 = and y1 =
K3 K2 K1
y1  y2
The total static displacement  = y3 +
2
 4 K 1K 2  K 1K 3  K 2 K 3 
= mg
4 K 1K 2 K 3
1 g
Frequency of oscillation n =
2 
1 4 K 1K 2 K 3
=
2 4 K 1K 2  K 1K 3  K 2 K 3
7.97. A massless pulley P, two springs of force constants K1 and K2 and a
block of mass m is arranged as shown in the Fig. 7.67. Find the period of
small oscillations of mass m about the equilibrium position.
Solution: Equation of motion of mass m.
md 2 x
= – K1 x1 ; x 1 = stretch of spring of
dt 2
force constant K1
T = K1 x1 T = tension
K2x2 = 2T = 2K1 x1 ; x 2 = stretch of spring of
force constant K2
2 K1
x2 = · x1
K2
 4K1 
Now x = x1 + 2x2 =  1   x1
 K2 
md 2 x K 1K 2
= – K1x1 = – ·x
dt 2 4K1  K 2
2 K 1K 2
=  ; t = time period Fig. 7.67
t m  4K1  K 2 
m 4K1  K 2 
 t = 2
K 1K 2
7.98. A steel ball of mass m is projected vertically upward with a velocity
v0 from a perfectly elastic horizontal plane. If h be the height of the spring
from the horizontal surface and K be the force constant of the spring,
find the period of vertical oscillations of the ball.
436 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution: When the ball is going up then we have

1 1
mv02 = mgh + mgx + Kx2; x = compression in the spring
2 2
Kx + 2mgx – m v0  2 gh  = 0
2 2

m2 g 2 m 2 mg
x=  v0  2 gh  
K2 K K
1 2
h = v0t1  g t1
2
or gt12  2 v0t1  2h = 0

v0  v02  2 gh
t1 =
g
1 2 1 1 Fig. 7.68
mv0 = mgh + mgy + K y2 + mv2;
2 2 2
v = velocity of the ball at a compression y
K 2
v02  2gh  2gh  y = v2
m 1

K m 2  
2 2
m2 g 2  m g dy
 v0  2 gh     y  =
m  K K 2
 K   dt

K t2 x dy
m  0
dt =
m 2
 0
1

 
2 2
m2 g 2  mg
 v0  2 gh      y  
 K K2  K  
mg
K  K
t 2 =  sin 1
m 2 m 2 m2 g 2
K
v0  2 gh  
K2
During descend the equation of motion of the ball is given by
mdv
= mg + K (x – y1); y1 is the opening in the spring
dt
dv
m· · v = (mg + Kx) – K y1
dy1
y1 y1
 mg  Kx  dy   K y dy
V
m  vdv = 0 1 0 1 1
0

m g  mK  v  2 gh    K y
1
2 2 2 2
mV 2 = 2 y1
2

 0 1

 K 2 K
2 y1  g 2  v02  2gh    · y12
dy1
=
dt  m  m
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 437

x dy1 K t3
0 1

m 0
dt
m  2 K 2 
 
2

2 y1  g  v 0  2 gh   y1
2

K m
1 x
m K 
y1   g 2   v02  2 gh  
2

K  m  K
sin 1 1
 · t3
m 2 K 2  m
g  v0  2 gh  
2

K  m  0

 
 mg 
 1 K  m
t3 =   sin 1
2 
2 m g
2 2
m  K

  v02  2gh   
  K
2
K  
Free descend time t4 = t1
  
  mg 
 v0  v0  2gh
2
m  K 
T  2   sin1 
K 2
1
g  m 2 2
g m 
2



  K2 
K
 v0
2
 2 gh  


    
7.99. A solid cylinder of mass m is kept in equilibrium on a horizontal
surface with the help of two springs of force constants K1 and K2 as shown
in the Fig. 7.69. Find the frequency of small oscillations.
Solution: Let the cylinder be rotated about
an axis passing through O and
perpendicular to the plane of paper.
Linear displacement of A and B
respectively = R and 2R
where R = radius of the cylinder
Rd Rd
vA = v = , vB = 2v = 2 Fig. 7.69
dt dt
1
Potential energy of the spring of force constant K1 = K 1R 2 2
2
1
Potential energy of the spring of force constant K2 = K 2 · 4R 2 2
2
Moment of inertia of the cylinder about an axis passing through O
3 2
= mR
2
438 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

1 3 3
K.E. of cylinder = · mR 2 2  mv 2
2 2 4
According to the conservation of energy
3 1 1
mv 2  K 1 R 2 2  K 2 R2 · 4 2 = constant
4 2 2
3
or mv · A  K 1 R  ·   4 K 2 R 2  ·  = 0
2

2
3
m A = – [K1 + 4K2] R 
2
3
or m · R = – [K1 + 4 K2] R 
2
 2 K1  4K 2 
= ·
3m
2  K1  4 K 2 
 = 2 n =
3m
1 2  K 1  4K 2 
or n =
2 3m
7.100. A ball of mass m, a massless rod of length L and two springs of force
constant K are arranged in the Figs. 7.70a and 7.70b. Find the frequency of
small oscillations in the two cases.
Solution: In Fig. 7.70a we have the energy conservation as
1 2 2 1 1 2 2
Kl   mgL 1  cos   = mL   Kl ·  ;  is the angle made by
2 2

2 2 2
the rod from the
vertical

Fig. 7.70a Fig. 7.70b

SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 439
On differentiation we have
Kl 2  ·  + mgL sin  ·  = mL2 ·  – Kl 2 ·  · 
m gL  2 Kl 2
 =  ; sin  =  for small angles
m L2
m gL  2 K l 2
1 = 2  n1 =
m L2
2
1 2K  l  g
or n1 =   
2 m L L
In Fig. 7.70b we have the energy equation as
1 2 2 1 1
Kl   mgL 1  cos   = m L2 2  K l 2 2
2 2 2
On differentiation we have
Kl 2  ·  – mgL ·  ·  = mL2  – Kl 2  · ; sin  = 
2 Kl 2  mgL
 = ·
mL2
2
2K l g
2 = 2  n2 = ·  
m L L
2
1 2K  l  g
or n2 =   
2 m L L

7.101. Two simple pendulums of equal length L are attached through a

spring of force constant K as shown in the Fig. 7.71a. Determine the
frequency of small oscillation and solve the equation of motion by
assuming that at the initial instant of time one pendulum was deflected
through an angle 0 from the vertical.

Fig. 7.71a Fig. 7.71b

440 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution: Let the pendulum A (Fig. 7.71b) be deflected through an angle 

from the vertical. The energy equation is given by
1 1 1
K a2 2 + mgL (1 – cos ) = mL2 2 – K a 2 2
2 2 2
1
or K a2 2 + mgL (1 – cos ) = mL22
2
On differentiation we have
K a2 · 2 ·  + mgL ·  ·  = mL2  · ; sin  = 
mgL  2 Ka 2
or  = 
m L2
g 2K a 2 g K a 2 K a2
1 =  =  
L m L2 L m L2 m L2

K a2
= 02 
m L2
g K a2
where 20  
L m L2
For the pendulum B we have
1 1 1 2 2
K a 2 2  mgL 1  cos  = m L   Ka 
2 2
–
2 2 2
On differentiation we have
– K a2  + mgL  = m L2  – K a2 
 mgL  Ka 2  Ka 2 
 =  
 mL2 
g Ka 2 Ka 2
2 =  
L mL2 mL2

Ka 2
= 20 
mL2
0 
1 = cos 1t  cos 2t  , 2 = 0 cos 1t  cos 2t 
2 2
7.102. A rectangular lamina ABCD of length x and breadth y and mass m
is pivoted at B. The end A is attached to a spring of force constant K as
shown in the figure. If the end A is pressed a little downward and released
it starts oscillating. Find the period of small oscillations.
Solution: On pressing the end A let AB makes an angle  with the
horizontal.
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 441
Torque about B = K x  · x
Moment of inertia of the lamina about
m 2
B=
3
 x  y2 
m 2
3
 x  y 2   = – K x2 
3K x 2
=
m  x2  y 2 

m  x2  y 2 
Fig. 7.72
T = 2
3K x2
7.103. A rod AB of length L and mass m is pivoted at its mid-point O. It is
kept horizontal with the help of two identical springs of force constant K.
The end A of the rod is pressed downward and released find the frequency
of small oscillations.
Solution: Let  be the angle which the rod makes with the horizontal.
L
Force acting on the spring = K · 
2
On taking the moment about O we have
m L2 L L
· = – K · ·· 2
12 2 2
6K
or  = – ·
m
6K
= 2 n =
m
1 6K Fig. 7.73
or n =
2 m
7.104. The equal masses m are connected by springs having force constant
K (see Fig. 7.74a). The masses are free to slide on the frictionless table AB.
Find the differential equation and its solution.
Solution: Let x1 and x2 be the displacements of masses P & Q respectively.
d 2 x1
Force on mass P = m = K (x2 – x1) – Kx1
dt 2
d 2 x2
Force on mass Q = m = K (x1 – x2) – Kx2
dt 2
d 2 x1 d 2 x2
or m = K (x – 2x ) and m = K (x1 – 2x2)
dt 2 2 1 dt 2
442 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Fig. 7.74a

Fig. 7.74b

To solve these equations let x1 = A1 cos t and x2 = A2 cos t then

– m A1 2 cos t = K (A2 – 2A1) cos t;
– mA2 2 · cos t = K (A1 – 2A2) cos t
(2K – m2) A1 – KA2 = 0
– KA1 + (2K – m2) A2 = 0
As A1 & A2 are amplitudes they will never be zero, hence
2 K  m 2 K
=0
K 2 K  m 2
or (2K – m 2) = + K 2
or 2K – m 2 = ± K
K 3K
= and  =
m m
7.105. A thin bar of mass m and length l is suspended from a point P
through one of its end. It is displaced through a small vertical angle and
released. Find the period of small oscillations.
1
Solution: Moment of inertia of the thin bar about P = ml 2 (see Fig. 7.75).
3
Let  be the angular displacement given to the bar then P
1 l mg
ml  = – mg · · sin  = –
2 l · ; sin  = 
3 2 2
3g
 = – ·
2l
2 3g
= 
T 2l
2l Fig. 7.75
T = 2
3g
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 443
7.106. A homogeneous circular disc of radius r and mass m oscillates in its
own plane about an axis passing through a point on its edge and
perpendicular to its plane. Calculate the period of small oscillations.
Solution: Moment of inertia of the disc about P is given by (see Fig. 7.76)
1 3
I = mr 2 + mr 2 = mr 2
2 2
Let the disc be displaced through a small vertical angle  then
3
mr 2 ·  = – mg r sin  = – mgr 
2
2g
 =– 
3r
2 2g
= 
T 3r
3r
 T = 2 Fig. 7.76
2g
7.107. A thin circular hoop of radius r is hanged over an edge P as shown
in the Fig. 7.77. If the hoop is displaced through a small vertical angle  it
oscillates in its own plane. Calculate the frequency of oscillation.
Solution: Moment of inertia of the hoop about an axis passing through P
and perpendicular to its plane is equal to
I = mr 2 + mr 2 ; m = mass of the hoop
Let the hoop be displaced through a small vertical angle , then
2mr 2 ·  = – mgr · sin  = – mgr 
 g 
 = –  
 2r 
g
 = 2n =
2r
1 g
n =
2 2r Fig. 7.77

7.108. A thin hoop of radius r and mass m is suspended as shown in the

Fig. 7.78. A particle of mass m is also attached at the rim of the hoop.
Determine the period of small oscillation when it oscillates (i) in the plane
of the hoop (ii) in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the hoop.
Solution:
(i) Moment of inertia of the hoop about an axis passing through O
and perpendicular to its plane = mr 2
444 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Moment of inertia of the hoop about P = mr 2 + mr 2 = 2 mr 2

Moment of inertia of the particle attached at the rim about
P = m · 4r 2
Total moment of inertia = 6mr 2
mr  m ·2r 3r
Centre of mass of the system from P = 
2m 2
Let the hoop be displaced in the vertical plane through an angle
. The equation of motion is given by
3r
6 mr 2 ·  = – 2 mg · sin 
2
= – 3 mgr 
g
 =– ·
2r
2 g
= 
T 2r
2r
 T = 2 Fig. 7.78
g
1
(ii) Moment of inertia of the hoop about O along x axis = mr 2
2
Moment of inertia of the hoop about P parallel to x axis
1 3
= mr 2 + mr 2 = mr 2
2 2
Moment of inertia of the mass about P = 4 mr 2
11mr 2
Net moment of inertia =
2
Let the hoop be displaced through an angle  in a direction
perpendicular to the plane of the hoop. Equation of motion is
given by
11mr 2 3r
·  = – 2mg · · sin 
2 2
6g
 =– ·
11r
2 6g
= 
T 11r
11r
or T = 2
6g
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 445
7.109. One end of a thin rod of length l and mass m is
attached at the rim of a thin disc of mass M and
radius r. The other end of the rod is pivoted at O. If the
rod is slightly displaced from the vertical and set free it
starts oscillating. Find the period of oscillation.
Solution: The total moment of inertia of the disc and
rod about the axis of suspension O is given by (see
Fig. 7.79).
1 1 2
I = Mr  M l  r   ml
2 2

2 3
l
m ·  M l  r 
Centre of mass from O = 2
 M  m Fig. 7.79

Let the rod be displaced through an angle  from the vertical. The
equation of motion is given by
 l 
m ·  M  l  r 
1 1   2  sin 
 2 Mr  M l  r   3 ml  ·  = –  M  m  g
2 2 2

 M  m
1 1   l 
or  Mr 2  M l  r   ml 2  ·  = – m · 2  M l  r   g · 
2

2 3 
l
m·  M l  r 
2 2
= 
T 1 1
Mr 2  M  l  r   ml 2
2

2 3
1 1
Mr 2  M l  r   ml 2
2

or T = 2  2 3
l
m ·  M l  r 
2
7.110. A thin circular ring of mass m, inner radii r and outer radii R rests
with inner face of its rim on a transverse horizontal knife edge as shown in
Fig. 7.80. If the ring is slightly displaced from the vertical it starts oscillating
in the vertical plane. Find the period of oscillation.

Solution: Moment of inertia about P = m

R 2

 mr 2
 r2 
2
Let the ring be displaced through an angle  from the vertical. The
equation of motion is given by
  R2  r 2  
m  r 2  ·  = – mgr sin  = – mgr 
 2 
446 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

 mgr 

 R2  r 2 
m  r2 
 2 
2 2gr
= 
T R 2  3r 2

R 2  3r 2
T = 2
2gr Fig. 7.80
7.111. A thin disc of mass m and radius r is
fixed at the rim of another thin disc of mass M
and radius R (R > r) as shown in the
Fig. 7.81. The disc of radius R is mounted at its
centre on an axle. The assembly of the two
disc is rotated through an angle  from the
vertical and released. Find (i) the speed of
centre of disc of radius r at the equilibrium
position (ii) the period of oscillation.
Solution:
Fig. 7.81
(i) In view of conservation of energy we have
1 1 2 1 1
 2 mr  mR    2  2 MR 
2 2 2 2
mgR [1 – cos ] =
2
r 2 2 1 2 2 1 M 2 2
gR [1 – cos ] =  R   R 
4 R2 2 4m
 r2  M  2
4 gR [1 – cos ] =  2  2     v
R  m 
g R 1  cos  
v 2
 r2 M
 2 2 
R m
(ii) 4 mg R3 (1 – cos ) = mr 2v 2 + 2 mR 2v 2 + MR 2v 2
On differentiation we have
4 mgR3 sin  ·  = mr 2 · 2v · a + 4 m R2 v · a + 2MR2 v · a
2m g R2
a = R =
mr 2   M  2m  R 2
2m g R 
=
mr 2   M  2m  R 2
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 447

2 2m g R
= 
T mr   M  2m  R 2
2

mr 2   M  2m  R 2
T = 2
2m g R

7.112. A pendulum as shown in the Fig. 7.82 consists of two masses m1

and m2 fixed on a light thin rod at a respective distance of l1 and l2 from the
point of suspension O. The pendulum is displaced from the vertical and
released. Find the period of oscillation.
Solution: Total moment of inertia I = m1l12  m2 l22
m1l1  m2l2
Centre of mass from O =
m1  m2
Let the pendulum be displaced through a small angle
 then equation of motion is given by
 m l  m2l2 
m l2
11 m2l22  ·  = –  m1  m2  g  1 1  sin 
 m1  m2 
g m1l1  m2 l2  
or  = – Fig. 7.82
m1l12  m2 l22

2 g m1l1  m2 l2 
= 
T m1l12  m2 l22

m1l12  m2l22
or T = 2 
g m1l1  m2 l2 
7.113. A plane lamina in the form of an equivalent triangle of side a =
4.9 cm is suspended vertically keeping its base AB horizontal. The lamina
is rotated through an angle  and released (see Fig. 7.83a). Find the period
of oscillation.
A B
Solution:
Moment of inertia of the lamina of
2 h
1 M a 3
mass M about AB = Mh 2  · 
6 6  2 
Ma 2 C
= Fig. 7.83a
8
h
 0
xdm

h x · M · DE · dx
Centre of mass = (see Fig 7.83b)
M 0
a 3a
M·
4
448 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

A B
h 4 DE · xdx
= 
a2 · 3 0 E
x
D
dx
4 AB  h h-x
= 2
a 3h 
  0
 xh  x 2   dx

 h3 h3  4 C
  3
=
a 3h  2  Fig. 7.83b
4h2 a 3
= 
a 3 ·6 6
Let the lamina be displaced through an angle . The equation of
motion is given by
a2 a 3
M· ·  = – Mg · · sin 
8 6
8g 3
 =– ·
6a
2 8g 3
= 
T 6a
6a
or T = 
2g 3
a
= 3 4
1

g
On substituting the values we have
4.9  102
T = 3.14  3 4
1

9.8
3.14  3 4
1

=  0.292 sec
1.414
7.114. A 29.4 cm long thin wire is bent in the form of an equilateral
triangular frame and is hanged from a pin at O (see Fig. 7.84). The frame
is displaced through a small angle and released. Find the period of
oscillation.
Solution: Let m be the mass of the wire and 3l be its
length then total moment of inertia of each wire about O
the centroid O´ is given by
O
m l2 m l2 ml 2
·  · =
 
2
3 12 3 2 3 18
Fig. 7.84
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 449

ml 2 ml 2
Total moment of inertia of the frame about O´ = 3 · 
18 6
ml 2 ml 2 ml 2
Moment of inertia of the frame about O =  
6 3 2
Let the frame be displaced through a small angle  from the vertical
the equation of motion is given by
ml 2 2 l 3
·  = – mg · · sin 
2 3 2
l g
=– ·
2 3
2g
 =– ·
3l
2 2g
= 
T 3l
l· 3
 T = 2
2g
On substituting the values of l and g we have
9.8  102  1.732
T = 2  3.14
2  9.8
= 0.2  3.14  0.866
= 0.584 sec
7.115. A thin plate of length l and mass m rests on a half cylindrical glass
rod of radius r. The plate is pressed on one side of its length and set free. It
starts oscillating. Find the frequency of oscillation.
Solution: When the plate is pressed it forms a new contact which subtends
an angle . In view of conservation of energy (see Fig. 7.85) we have
1 ml 2
mgr (1 – cos ) = ·  2
2 12
On differentiation we have
ml 2
mgr sin  ·  = ·
12
12 gr
= 
l2
3g r
 = 2 n = 2
l2
Fig. 7.85
1 3g r
n =
 l2
450 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

7.116. A homogenous L shaped bar of mass 3 kg is supported in a vertical

plane through a pin O and a spring of force constant K = 100 N/m at A as
shown in Fig. 7.86. The length of the portion OA is l = 1 m. The bar OB is
rotated through an angle  with the vertical and set free. Find the period of
rotational oscillation.
Solution: Let m be the mass of portion OA of the bar. The mass of portion
OB = 2 m.
 m = 1 kg
On equation the torque we have
 ml 2 4l 2  l  mg 
  2 m ·   = mg ·    Kl  l  2 mg l sin 
 3 3  2  2 
or 3ml 2 ·  = –  Kl 2  2mgl   ; sin  = 
 Kl  2mg 
 =– ·
3ml
2 Kl  2 mg
= 
T 3 ml
3ml
 T = 2
Kl  2 m g
On substituting the values of various terms we have
Fig. 7.86
3 11
T = 2  3.14
100  1  2  1  9.8
3
= 6.28
119.6
= 1 sec
7.117. The homogenous bar of the above problem is
arranged as shown in the Fig. 7.87. The bar OB is rotated
through a small angle  with the vertical and released.
Find the period of rotational oscillations.
Solution: On equating the torque we have
 ml 2 4ml 2 
  
 3 3 
l  mg 
= mg ·    K l   l  2mgl sin 
2  2 
3 ml 2  = – [Kl 2 – 2 mgl] 
Fig. 7.87
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 451

 Kl  2 m g 
=–  
 3 ml 
2 K l  2 mg
= 
T 3ml
3ml
T = 2
K l  2 mg
On putting the values of the various terms we have
3  1 1
T = 2  3.14
100  1  2  1  9.8
3
= 6.28
80.4
= 1.21 sec
7.118. Two similar thin bars AB and OC of mass m/2 and length l are
joined to form a T as shown in the Fig. 7.88. On suspending the system of
the two bars from O, AB is horizontal. The bar OC is slightly displaced from
the vertical and released. Find the period of oscillation.
m l2
Solution: Moment of inertia of AB about C = ·
2 12
m l 2 ml 2 13ml 2
Moment of inertia of AB about O = ·  
2 12 2 24
m l 2 ml 2
Moment of inertia of OC about O = · 
2 3 6
13ml 2 ml 2 17ml 2
Net moment of inertia about O =  
24 6 24
m l m
·  ·l
3l
Centre of mass from O = 2 2 2 
m 4
Let the bar be displaced through an
angle  then the equation of motion is
given by
17 ml 2 3l
·  = – mg · · sin 
24 4
18 g
 =– ·
17l
Fig. 7.88
452 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

2 18 g
= 
T 17 l
17l
T = 2
18 g
7.119. A uniform cylinder of mass m and radius r rolls without slip inside
cylindrical surface of radius R. Show that it will execute simple harmonic
motion. Find its time period.
Solution: Linear velocity of the centre of the cylinder (see Fig. 7.89)
v = r  = (R – r) 
 R r 
 =  
 r 
1 1
Total K.E. of the cylinder = mv 2  I 2
2 2
1 mr 2  R  r 
2
1
m  R  r  2 
2
=  2
2 2 2 r2
3
m  R  r  2
2
=
4
Loss in P.E. of the cylinder = mg (R – r) (1 – cos )
3
 m  R  r  2 = mg (R – r) (1 – cos )
2

4
On differentiation we have
3 d
 R  r  · 2  = g sin  ·
4 dt
3
R  r   = g 
2
2g
 = ·
3 R  r 
2 2g Fig. 7.89
=
T 3 R  r 

3 R  r 
 T = 2
2g
7.120. A homogeneous semi circular ring of radius r = 4.9 cm rests on the
knife edge P as shown in the Fig. 7.90. When it is slightly displaced from the
equilibrium position by pressing one of its end towards the centre it starts
oscillating. Assuming that friction is large enough to prevent slipping at P.
Calculate the period of small oscillations.
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 453
Solution: Let m be the mass of the half ring. Its
moment of inertia about O = mr 2
Centre of mass of the half ring is at a
2r
distance of above O.

2
 2r 
I cm  m   = mr 2 Fig. 7.90
  
 4 
 I cm  mr 2  1  2 
  
2
 4   2
Moment of inertia about P = mr 2  1  2   mr 2 1  
    
2  2
= 2 mr  1  
 
 2
Distance between P and centre of mass = r  1  
 
Let an angular displacement  be given to the half ring then its
equation of motion is given by
 2  2
2 mr 2  1   ·  = – mgr  1   sin 
   
g
 =– ·
2r
2 g
= 
T 2r
2r
 T = 2
g
On substituting the values of r and g we have
2  4.9  102
T = 2  3.14
9.8
= 0.628 sec
7.121. A homogenous half section of pipe of radius r is placed on a rough
surface AB. One of the two ends of the pipe is pressed so as to rotate it
through a small angle  and then released. It starts oscillating. Find the
period of small oscillations.
Solution: In this case the centre of mass will oscillate. The loss in potential
energy is equal to gain in kinetic energy (see Fig. 7.91).
454 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

2r 1 1  2
mg · 1  cos  = 2 I  · 2  2 · 2 mr 2  1    2
  
mg · 2r (1 – cos ) = mr 2 ( – 2) 2
On differentiation we have
mg · 2r · sin  ·  = mr 2 ( – 2) · 2 · 
g
=
r    2
2 g
= Fig. 7.91
T r    2

r    2
 T = 2
g
7.122. The two ends A and B of a thin homogeneous half ring of radius
r = 15.8 cm are connected to a weightless thread (see Fig. 7.92a). The thread
together with the half ring rests on a cylindrical peg at O. The half ring is
depressed at one of its ends and released. Find the period of oscillation.
Solution: The y component of centroid (see Fig. 7.92b)

yc =
 ydL
 dL
Now dx2 + dy2 = dL2 and x2 + y 2 = r 2
xdx + ydy = 0 Fig. 7.92a
y
 dx = – · d y
x
 y2 
dL2 =  1  2  dy 2
 x 
Fig. 7.92b
r
or dL = · dy
x
r ry · dy
r
0 x y·
r
· dy  0
r2  y2
yc = 
r
r
 0 2 dL 2
2 r yd y 2r
= 0 
 r y
2 2 
2r
Thus the centroid of the half ring lies at a distance of below O.

Let m be the mass of the half ring.
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 455
Moment of inertia of half ring about an axis passing through O and
perpendicular to it = mr 2.
For small angular displacement  the equation of motion is given by
2r
mr 2 ·  = – mg · · sin 

2g
r = – ·

2 2g
= 
T r
r
or T = 2
2g
On substituting the values of r and g we have
3.14  15.8  102
T = 2  3.14
2  9.8
= 1 sec
7.123. A square plate of length l having a centred
circular hole of radius r is suspended from P as
shown in the Fig. 7.93. The plate is displaced
through an angle  from the vertical and released.
Find the period of oscillation.
Solution: Let M be the mass of the plate
Moment of inertia of the plate about the centre
M l2
O=
6 Fig. 7.93
M l2
Moment of inertia of the plate about P =  Mr 2
6
M 2 r2
Moment of inertia of the circular disc of radius r about O = r ·
l2 2
M r 4 M 2 2
Moment of inertia of the circular disc about P = 2  2 r · r
l 2 l
3 M r 4
=
2 l2
Moment of inertia of the plate with circular hole about
M l2 3 M r 4
P=  Mr 2 
6 2 l2
 M 
Mass of the plate with hole =  M  2 r 2 
 l 
456 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

On displacing the plate through a small angle  the equation of motion

is given by
 M l2 3 M r 4   M r 2 
  M r2    = –  M   gr sin 
 6 2 l2   l2 
 r 2 
 1  2  gr 
 l 
 =  2
l 3 r 4 
  r 2
 
6 2 l2 
2  r 2   l2 3 r 4 
1  2  r 
2
=  gr 
T  l  6 2 l2 

 l2 3 r 4   r 2 
 T = 2   r2  2  1  2  gr
6 2l   l 
7.124. A solid disc of mass m and radius R is kept
horizontal by connecting it through three wires
of length l. The wires are equally spaced round
the circumference of a circle of radius r. When
the disc is turned through small angle and
released it performs simple harmonic motion.
Find its time period.
Solution: Let the disc be rotated through a small
angle  the corresponding angular displacement
of the wire be  then
r
r  = l  or  = (see Fig. 7.94) Fig. 7.94
l
mg
Tension in each wire =
3
mg
Component of the tension perpendicular to r = sin 
3
mg mg r
= = ·
3 3 l
 mg r  r 2
Total restoring couple = 3  · · r  = mg
 3 l  l
Equation of motion of the disc is given by
r 2
I  = – mg ; I = moment of inertia of the disc about an axis passing
l
through its centre and perpendicular to its plane.
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 457

1 r 2
or mR 2  = – mg
2 l
2gr2
or =– 
l R2
2 2g r 2
= 
T l R2
l R2
or T = 2
2g r2
7.125. A rod AB is suspended symmetrically by two equal but non parallel
threads each of length l. The distance between the threads at the top and at
the bottom is 2d1 and 2d2 respectively. The rod is rotated through an angle
 in the horizontal plane and released. It starts oscillating. Assuming d2 –
d1 = x find the period of oscillation.
Solution: Let T be the tension in the thread then
2T cos  = mg (see Fig. 7.95)
LB' = d12  d22  2 d1 d2 cos   d2  d1 assuming  = 0
LB' = d2 – d1 = x
BR BR BQ 2  RQ 2 l2  x2
cos  =   
BQ l l l
mg l
T =
2 l 2  x2
Resolving T sin  acting at A' and B'
along A'K and B'L respectively into
rectangular components along and at
right angles to A'B' we have right angle
component = T sin  · sin ;  is the
angle between T sin  acting along B'L and
A'B'.
Fig. 7.95
Moment of restoring couple
= T sin  · sin  · A'B'
Restoring torque = T sin  · sin  · 2d2
mg l x x
 2 d2 · · sin ; sin  
2 l x 2 2 l l
m g x sin 
 d2 ·
l 2  x2
458 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

d1 LB
=
sin  sin 
d1 x
 =
sin  
d2 d d mg · 
I =– 1 2
dt 2 l 2  x2
d1d2 · mg 2
= 
I l  x 
1
2 2 2
T

I l 2  x 2 
1
2

T = 2
d1 d2 · mg
7.126. A particle of mass m is suspended by a weightless elastic string of
length l whose other end is fixed to a rigid support. The modulus of elasticity
of string  = ng. Show that the particle will be execute simple harmonic
ml
motion with time period t = 2  .
ng
Solution: Let b be the extension in the string when the particle is attached
then in equilibrium
 b ng b
T0 = mg = 
l l
Let at an instant t, (b + x) be the extension in the string then tension in
the string is given by
T = ng (b + x)/l
The equation of motion of the particle is given by
d2x ng b ng x
m = mg – T = mg – 
dt 2 l l
ng x ng b
=– ; mg =
l l
2
d x ng
 =– ·x
dt 2 ml
Thus the acceleration is proportional to displacement hence the motion
is simple harmonic in nature.
2 ng
= 
t ml
ml
 t = 2
ng
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 459
7.127. Two particles of masses m1 and m2 are attached at the lower end of
an elastic string of length l whose upper end is fixed to a rigid support.
The modulus of elasticity of the string is . Out of the two masses m2 falls
off. Calculate the position of the particle m1 from the upper end of the
string at an instant t.
Solution: Let l1 and l2 be the extensions in the string with masses m1 and
m2 respectively.
l l
m1g = 1 , m2g = 2
l l
Equation of motion of the particle is given by
d2x x
m1 2 = m1 g – T = m1g –
dt l
2
d x x
m1 = m1g – m1g ·
dt 2 l1
d2 x g
or 2 = – (x – l1)
dt l1
Let the solution of the above differential equation be
 g   g 
x – l1 = A cos  · t   B sin  ·t 
  l 
 l1   1 
dx
Initially x = l1 + l2 and at t = 0, =0
dt
B = 0 and A = l2
 g 
x = l1 + l2 cos  ·t 

 l1 
 g 
Required position = l + x = l + l1 + l2 cos  ·t 

 l1 
7.128. A particle of mass m is attached to a wire which is stretched between
two rigid supports O and O' with a tension T (Fig. 7.96). The position of
the particle from the two ends are l1 and l2 respectively. Find (i) the period
of transverse oscillations (ii) the position of the particle at which the time
period will be maximum.
Solution:
(i) Restoring force = T cos  + T cos 
 y y 
T   
 l1  y
2 2
l2  y 2
2

460 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

For small values of y

1 1 
m × acceleration = – T    y
 l1 l2 
2 T l1  l2 
= 
t ml1l2

or t = 2  ml1l2 T l1  l2 
(ii) Let l1 + l2 = l and l1 = x
m · x l  x 
t = 2
T ·l
Fig. 7.96
dt m  l  2x 
= 2  0
dx T l  2 x l  x  
 
l
l – 2x = 0 or x =
2
d 2t
With this value of x, is negative
dx 2
The time period will be maximum when the particle is at the mid-
point of the wire.
7.129. One end A of a rod of mass m is welded at the circumference of a
hoop and the other end lies at the centre O of the hoop. The length l of the
rod is equal to the radius of the hoop. If the set up is displaced from its
equilibrium position it starts oscillating. Neglecting the mass of the hoop
find the period of small oscillations.
Solution: Let the assembly be displaced through angle  from the vertical
l
(see Fig. 7.97). The torque acting on it is mg sin .
2
ml 2 l
Further  = – mg sin 
3 2
l
= – mg ·  for small angles
2
3g
 =– ·
2l
2 3g
= 
T 2l Fig. 7.97

2l
or T = 2
3g
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 461
7.130. A homogenous semi circular disc of radius r is suspended at O as a
compound pendulum as shown in Fig. 7.98. The pendulum swings with
small amplitude of oscillation in its vertical plane. Find the period of
oscillation.
Solution: Moment of inertia of the disc about an axis passing through A
mr 2
and  to its plane =
4
m
mass of disc =
2
2
m  4r  mr 2
Now IG + ·  =
2  3  4
2
mr 2 m  4r 
or IG =  · 
4 2  3 
Moment of inertia about O is given by
Fig. 7.98
m   4r  
2

Io = I G  · r 2    
2 
  3   
2 2
mr 2 m  4r  mr 2 m  4r 
=  ·    · 
4 2  3  2 2  3 
3 mr 2
=
4
When the pendulum is rotated through small angle  from the vertical
then
2
3 mr 2 m  4r 
·  =  · g r2    · sin 
4 2  3 
3 mr 2 mg r
 =  9 2  16 · 
4 6
2g
 =  9 2  16 · 
9 r
2 2g
=  9 2  16
T 9 r
9 r
T = 2 ·
2 9   16 g
2

28.26 r r
= 2 · = 2  1.38
20.468 g g
462 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

7.131. A uniform semi circular

cylinder of radius r lies on a
plane surface when it is
displaced through small angle 
from its equilibrium position it
starts oscillating. Find the period
of oscillation.
Solution: Let us choose the
coordinate axis through point O0.
Fig. 7.99
The xc and yc of the centre of
gravity C is given by
4r
xc = r  – h sin , yc = h cos , h = O0 C0 = OC = (see Fig. 7.99)
3
During the state of motion from the extreme angular position 0 to 
work of all the force is = mgh (cos  – cos 0).
m 2  2
Change in kinetic energy =
2
 xc  yc2   m ic2
2
; ic = radius of
gyration
 r 2 16r 2 
ic2    2 
 2 9 
 2 r 2  2 r h cos   h 2  ic2   2 g h cos   cos 0 

or  2 r  h   ic2   2 g h cos   cos 0 

2

 r  h   ic2    2 g h  ·  on differentiation

2
2  
 
 g h · 

r  h
2
 ic2
2 gh
 
r  h 
2
T  ic2

4g r
2 3
 2
T  4r   r 2 16r 2 
r     
 3    2 9 2 

8g

r  9   16 

r  9   16 
T 
2g
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 463
7.132. A solid hemisphere of radius r
rests with its convex surface on a
horizontal table. If it is displaced
slightly show that it will undergo
oscillations with period equal to that of
a simple pendulum of equivalent
4r
length .
3
Solution: Let m be the mass of Fig. 7.100
hemisphere. Moment of inertia of the
hemisphere about O and perpendicular
1
to the plane of paper = mr 2.
5
2
1  3r 
Moment of inertia of the hemisphere about C.G. = mr 2  m ·  
5  8 
19mr 2
=
320
2
19 mr 2  5r 
Moment of inertia of the hemisphere about O' = m 
320  8 
144mr 2
=
320
Let the sphere be rotated through small angle  (see Fig. 7.100) then in
view of conservation of energy we have
2
1 144 1  5r  5r
· mr 2 2  m ·  ·    mg 1  cos 
2 320 2  8  8
269 5g
· r2  1  cos  
640 8
On differentiation we have
269 5g
· r ·2  ·  = ·  ·  · sin   
640 8
200 g
= ·
269r
2 200 g
 = 
T 269r
269 3 r
T = 2 ·
200 3 g
464 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

807 r
= 2 ·
200 3 g
r
= 2  4.035 ·
3g
4r
 Equivalent length of simple pendulum =
3
7.133. A thin fixed ring of radius 1 m has a positive charge of 1 × 10–5 C
uniformly distributed over it. A particle of mass 0.9 g and having a negative
charge of 10–6 C is placed on the axis at a distance of 1 cm from the centre
of the ring. Show that the motion of the negatively charged particle is
approximately simple harmonic. Calculate the time period of oscillation.
(IIT 1982)
Solution: Consider a ring of radius a on which charge Q is uniformly
distributed. The elected field at a distance x from the centre of the ring is
given by
Qx
E
4  0  a 2  x 2 
3/2

Under the influence of this field the negatively charged particle having
charge q will experience a force given by
Qqx
F
4 0  a 2  x 2 
3/2

This will cause an acceleration given by

Qqx
A
4  m 0  a 2  x 2 
3/2

When a >> x,
Qqx
A
4  0 ma 3
(The negative sign has been introduced because acceleration and
displacement are in opposite directions.)
Since the acceleration is proportional to the displacement, it is a case
of simple harmonic motion.
2 Qq
Now  = 
T 4 0 ma 3
4 0 ma 3
or T = 2
Qq
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION 465
On substituting the values, we have
9 104  1
T = 2  3.14  0.63s
9  109  105  106
7.134. An oscillatory circuit contains an inductance 12 × 10–5 H and a
variable capacitor whose capacity varies from 3 × 10–8 to 0.75 × 10–8 F.
Determine the wavelength and frequency range of this circuit.
Solution: For an LC circuit the time period of oscillation is given by
T = 2 LC1
 T1 = 2 × 3.14 12  105  3  108 = 2 × 3.14 · 3.6 × 10–6
= 11.91 × 10–6 sec
T2 = 2 LC 2 = 2 × 3.14 12  105  0.75  108
= 2 × 3.14 · 0.9 × 10–6 = 5.95 × 10–6 s
Wavelength 1 = 3 × 108 × 11.91 × 10–6 = 3573 m
Wavelength 2 = 3 × 108 × 5.95 × 10–6 = 1785 m
1
Frequency v1 = = 83.96 kHz
T1
1
Frequency v2 = = 168.06 kHz
T2
7.135. An oscillator circuit contains an inductance 0.04 H and a capacitor
of capacity 16 µF. Determine the maximum current when the maximum
voltage across the capacitor is 150 V.
Solution: In view of the conservation of energy,
1 1
2
L · I max  CVmax
2

2 2
C
or I max  ·Vmax
L
On substituting the values of C, L and Vmax we have
16  106
I max  150  150  102  2  3 A
0.04
 8
SURFACE TENSION AND FLOW OF LIQUIDS

8.1. A liquid film is prepared by pressing a drop of liquid between two

glass plates as shown in Fig. 8.1. Calculate the total force required to pull
the two plates apart.
Solution: Let d be the thickness of the layers of the liquid between the
plates. The radii of curvature of the two concave edges of the layer are both
equal to d/2. If r be the radius of curvature of the circular area of the film,
the excess of pressure p inside the liquid film over the atmospheric pressure
is given by
1 2 
p=T    Fig. 8.1
r d 
where T is the surface tension of the liquid.
If the thickness d of the layer is very small, r become very large.
Therefore,
 1 2 2T
p=T   
 d d
The negative sign indicates that the pressure inside the film is less
than the atmospheric pressure. The excess pressure of the atmosphere
on the two plates pushes them close together making d still smaller and r
still larger. If A be the circular area over which the liquid wets the plates,
the total force is given by
2T 2T · r 2
·A =
d d
Therefore F = 2 r2T/d is the force needed to pull the two plates apart.
8.2. Two vertical plates are kept parallel and close to each other in a liquid.
It has been noticed that liquid rises in between them. Calculate the height
to which the liquid will rise.
Solution: Let d be the distance between the plates and R the radius of the
meniscus (here it is a cylindrical one). If  be the angle of contact for the
liquid and the plate then we have d = 2R cos .
SURFACE TENSION AND FLOW OF LIQUIDS 467
The pressure just below the meniscus is less than the pressure just
1 1 
above it by T    . Where R and R' are the radii of the two curvatures
 R R 
which are at right angles to each other. R is equal to the radius of the
cylinder and R' = .
T 2T cos 
Excess pressure just above the meniscus = 
R d
In order to equalise the pressure the liquid column will rise up through
a height h given by
2T cos 
hg = ;  = density of the liquid
d
2T cos 
or h =
dg
8.3. A glass plate of weighing 8.3 gm
wt is 15 cm long, 1.56 cm broad and
0.2 cm thick. The plate is immersed
in water to half of its volume, keeping
it vertical and long side horizontal as
shown in Fig. 8.2. What will be its
apparent weight ? Surface tension of Fig. 8.2
water = 73 dynes/cm.
Solution: Three forces act on the glass plate, (i) its weight acting downward,
(ii) force due to surface tension acting downward, and (iii) thrust acting
upward.
Upward thrust = half the volume of the plate × density of water × g
15  1.56  0.2
=  1  980
2
= 2.34 gm wt (all in CGS system)
2  15  0.2   73
Force due to surface tension = = 2.265 gm wt
980
Net upward thrust = 2.34 – 2.265 = 0.075 gm wt.
 Apparent weight = 8.300 – 0.075 = 8.225 gm wt
8.4. A number of droplets of water each of radius r coalesce to form a
single drop of radius R. Calculate the rise in temperature.
Solution: Let there be n droplets each of radius r
The total area of n droplets = n × 4r2
Loss in area = n × 4r2 – 4R2
= 4 (nr2 – R2)
468 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Work done W = 4 T (nr2 – R2)

where T is the surface tension of water.
According to first law of thermodynamics,
W = JH
where H is heat produced and J is mechanical equivalent of heat.
4
4 T (nr 2 – R2) = J · R3 × 1000 × 1 × 
3
where  = rise in temperature
3T  nr 2 1 
 =   
1000 J  R3 R 
On equalizing the volume of a single drop to the total volume of
droplets, we have
4 4
n · r 3 = R3
3 3
nr 2 1
or 
R3 r
In the light of the above, we have
3T 1 1 
=   
1000 J r R 
8.5. A force if 0.035 N is required to separate a square frame with a side of
8.75 cm from the surface of a liquid. Taking the mass of the frame as 2 gm
calculate the surface tension of the liquid.
Solution:
Force due to surface tension = T × 8 × 8.75 × 10–2N ; T = surface tension
of the liquid.
In order to separate the frame from the surface of the liquid we must
overcome the force of gravity acting of the frame in addition to the force
due to surface tension.
0.035 = 2 × 10–3 × 9.8 + 8 × 8.75 × 10–2 T
On solving T = 0.022 N/m.
8.6. A soap film is formed on a rectangular frame of dimensions 4 cm ×
7 cm by dipping it into a soap solution. The frame is attached to the arm of
a balance keeping the short side vertical. An additional weight of 0.38 gm
has been placed on the pan in order to balance the pull of the film.
Calculate the surface tension of the soap solution.
Solution:
0.38 × 10–3 × 9.8 = 2 × 7 × 10–2 × T ; T = surface tension
SURFACE TENSION AND FLOW OF LIQUIDS 469

0.38  9.8  101

T=
14
= 0.0266 N/m
8.7. What will the percentage error be in calculating the atmospheric
pressure equal to 760 mm of mercury according to the height of a mercury
column if the internal diameter of the barometric tube is 5 mm. Surface
tension of mercury = 0.5 N/m.
Solution:
2T
=hg
r
2T
h=
rg
2  0.5
= 3
2.5  10  13.6  103  9.8
= 3.00 mm
100  3
% error = = 0.4
760
8.8. Water rises upto a height h in a capillary tube lowered vertically into
water to a depth l. The tube is taken out by closing its lower end
inside water. Find the length of the water column inside the capillary when
(i) l > h, (ii) l < h.
Solution:
(i) With reference to the water level of the container the upper
portion of capillary will have liquid column of height h. The lower
portion of the capillary will also have liquid of height h. Hence the
total length of water column will be 2h.
(ii) In the second case the lower portion of the capillary will hold
water column of height l and due to this the total length of water
column inside the capillary is l + h.
8.9. Find the maximum length of a mercury column which can be supported
by surface tension in a vertical capillary tube of radius r.
Solution: The maximum length of the mercury column will be obtained
when the shape of mercury at the lower end is hemisphere of radius r
equal to that of the tube.
Upward force due to surface tension will be balanced by weight of
mercury column.
2  r T – 2  r T cos ( – ) = r2lg ; T = surface tension and
 = angle of contact
 = density of mercury
470 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

2T 1  cos  
l=
g
8.10. Water rises in a capillary tube of radius r = 1 mm. Calculate the
reduction of saturation vapour pressure over a concave surface below
that on a flat surface. Density of water  = 103 Kg/m3. Density of vapour
 = 0.62 Kg/m3. Surface tension of water T = 0.072 N/m.
Solution:
2T   
p=  
r  
On substituting the values
2  0.072  0.62
p=
103  1000  0.62 
89.28
=
999.38
= 0.089 N/m2
8.11. Two soap bubbles of radii r1 and r2 in vacuum coalesce isothermally
to form a new bubble. Find the radius of the bubble formed.
Solution:
p1v1 + p2v2 = pv
 4T  4 3  4T  4 3  4T  4 3
or  p0   r1   p0   r2   p 0   R
 r1  3  r2  3  R 3
In vacuum p0 = 0
 R2 = r12  r22
or R = r12  r22

8.12. Two soap bubbles of radii r1 and r2 (r2 >> r1) were blown at the same
temperature. The mass of air enclosed in bubble of radius r1 is m whereas
in bubble of radius r2 as 1.5 m. Taking the atmospheric pressure as P.
Calculate the surface tension of the soap solution.
Solution:
 4T  4 3 m
P   · r1 = · RT ; M = mol wt of air
 r1  3 M
T = surface tension of soap solution

 4T  4 3 3m
and  P    r2 = · RT
 r2  3 2M
SURFACE TENSION AND FLOW OF LIQUIDS 471

 4T  3 3 4T  3
P   r2 =  P   r1
 r2  2 r1 
4T  2r22  3r12  =  3r13  2 r23  P

 3r  2 r  · P
1
3
2
3

or T =
4  2 r  3r 
2
2
1
2

8.13. A material of wire having density  = 1.4 gm/cc is not wetted by water
of surface tension 70 dynes/cm. Find the maximum radius of the wire
which can float on the surface of water.
Solution:
2LT = L  r2g ; L = length of the wire
T = surface tension of water
r = radius of wire
 = density of the material of wire
1
 2T  2
r= 
  g 
On putting the values of the various terms we have
1
 2  70 2
r=  
 3.14  1.4  980 
= 0.18 cm
8.14. A soap bubble is formed from 4 × 10–3 gm of soap solution. The soap
bubble filled with hydrogen of density 0.00009 gm/cc floats in air of density
0.00129 gm/cc. Calculate the excess of pressure inside the bubble. Surface
tension of soap solution = 30 dynes/cm.
Solution: In equilibrium we have
4 3 4
mg + r × 9 × 10–5 g = r3 × 129 × 10–5 g
3 3
4 3
m= r × 120 × 10–5
3
1
 3m 3
r=  5 
 4   120  10 
On putting the values we have
1
 3  4  103 3
r=  5 
 4  1.34  120  10 
= 0.9268 cm
472 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

4T
Excess of pressure =
r
4  30
=
0.9268
= 129.5 dynes/cm2
8.15. A ring is cut from a platinum tube 8.5 cm internal and 8.7 cm external
diameter. It is supported horizontally from a pan of a balance so that it
comes in contact with water in a glass vessel. What is the surface tension
of water if an extra 3.97 gm weight is required to pull it away from water,
g = 980 cm/sec2. (MNR 1992)
Solution: Total force on the ring due to surface tension is given by
F = T (2 r1 + 2 r2) ; T = surface tension of water
r1 and r2 are inner and outer radii of the ring
F
T=
  2 r1  2 r2 
On putting the values we have
3.97  980
T=
3.14(8.5  8.7)
3.97  980
=
3.14  17.2
= 72.13 dynes/cm.
8.16. Twenty drops of lead were formed by melting a vertically suspended
1 mm thick lead wire at its lower end. By what amount the wire length will
be shortened. It is assumed that the diameter of the neck of drop at the
time it detaches is equal to the diameter of the wire. Density of lead
 = 11300 Kg/m3. Surface tension of liquid lead T = 0.47 N/m.
Solution: Let the length of the wire be shortened by h then
2T r 2h  g
20 × = ;  = density of lead
r r 2
40T
or h =
r g
On putting the values we have
40  0.47
h=
0.5  103  11300  9.8
= 34 cm
8.17. Drops of water fall from a vertical tube with an internal radius of
r = 1 mm. Find the radius of a drop at the moment when it breaks away,
SURFACE TENSION AND FLOW OF LIQUIDS 473
considering it to be spherical. Assume that the diameter of the neck
of a drop at the moment it breaks away is equal to the internal diameter
of the tube. Surface tension of water T = 0.073 N/m, density of water =
1000 Kg/m3.
Solution:
2T 4
  r 2 =  R 3  · g ; R = radius of the drop
r 3
 = density of water
T = surface tension of water
1
 3T r 
3

R=  
 2 g 
On putting the values we have
1
 3  0.073  103  3
R=  
 2  10  9.8 
3

= 2.235 × 10–3m
= 2.235 mm
8.18. Calculate the amount of force to be applied to a horizontal
aluminium ring with a height h = 10 mm, internal diameter d1 = 48 mm
and external diameter d2 = 50 mm, away from the surface of water. Density
of aluminium  = 2600 Kg/m3. Surface tension of water = 0.073 N/m.
Solution:
Net required force F = weight of the ring + force due to surface tension
 2
F = d2  d1   hg  T  d1  d2 
2

4
On substituting the values we have
3.14
F= 502  482   106  2600  102  9.8
4 
 3.14  0.073 (50  48)  103
3.14  26  9.8  98  2  106
=  3.14  73  98  106
4
= (39.2 + 22.46) × 10–3
= 61.66 × 10–3 N
8.19. The movable copper rod EF of frame ABCD is covered with a
soap film (see Fig. 8.3). (i) What should the diameter of the rod EF be for it
to remain in equilibrium? (ii) What is the length of the bar if a work of
9 × 10–5 J is performed by displacing the bar through a distance of 2 cm?
Surface tension of soap solution = 0.045 N/m, Density of copper =
8600 Kg/m3.
474 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution:
(i) Let d be the diameter of the rod EF then in equilibrium
d2
l ·  · g = T · 2l ; T = surface tension of soap solution
4
 = density of copper
8T
d=
 g
On substituting the values
8  0.045
d=
3.14  8600  9.8
= 1.16 mm
(ii) T · 2l × 2 × 10–2 = 9 × 10–5
9  105
l=
4  102  0.045
Fig. 8.3
= 5 cm
8.20. The inner diameter of a barometric tube is 0.75 cm. What changes
are required while measuring the atmospheric pressure according to the
height of mercury column. Surface tension of mercury = 0.5 N/m.
Solution:
2T
=hg
r
2T
h=
rg
4T
=
dg
On substituting the values we have
4  0.5
h =
0.75  102  13.6  103  9.8
= 2.0 mm
The height of the mercury column has to be increased by 2 mm.
8.21. Two separate air bubbles (radii 0.002 m and 0.004 m) formed of the
same liquid (surface ternsion 0.07 N/m) come to form a double bubble.
Find the radius and the sense of curvature of the internal film surface
common to both the bubbles. (Roorkee 1989)
Solution: Total pressure inside the smaller and larger bubbles are given
by
SURFACE TENSION AND FLOW OF LIQUIDS 475

4T 4T
P1 = P0 + & P2 = P0 + ;
r1 r2
P0 = atmospheric pressure (see Fig. 8.4)
4T 1 1
P = P1 – P2 = = 4T   
R  r1 r2 
r1r2
R=
r2  r1
On substituting the values we have
0.002  0.004
R= = 0.004 m Fig. 8.4
0.004  0.002
8.22. An air bubble of diameter d1 = 4µm rises steadily from the bottom
of a pond to the surface where its diameter becomes d2 = 8µm. Assuming
the expansion of air to be isothermal find the depth of the pond. Surface
tension of water = 73 × 10–3 N/m. Atmospheric pressure p0 = 105 N/m2.
Density of water  = 103 kg/m3.
Solution: In view of Boyle’s Law
 4T  4  d13  4T  4  d23
 p0   g h   · =  p0   · ;  = density of water
 d1  3 8  d2  3 8
h = depth of the pond
d2 = 2d1
 4T   4T 
 p0   g h   = 8  p0  
 d1   d2 
1 1 
7 p0  32T   
d
 1 d 2 
h=
g
On putting the values
32  73  103  1 1 
7  105    
106  4 8
h=
9.8  10 3

 32  0.73 
7  8 
=  102
9.8
 7  2.92 
  10
2
=
 9.8 
= 41.63 m
476 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

8.23. A vertical capillary tube of inner diameter 0.5 mm is submerged

vertically in water. The length of the tube above the water surface is equal
to l = 30 mm. Calculate the curvature radius of the meniscus of water.
Surface tension of water = 73 × 10–3 N/m. Density of water = 103 Kg/m3.
Solution: In view of the data given the height upto which water will rise is
given by
2T
h=
rg
On putting the values we have
2  73  103
h=
0.25  103  103  9.8
= 5.96 cm
This suggests that the length of the capillary tube above the water
surface is insufficient. Let r be the radius of the capillary tube and R be
the radius of liquid meniscus in the tube then
r = R cos 
R cos  · h  · g Rh  g
T =  ; h = height of the liquid column in the
2 cos  2
tube
2T
Now Rh =
g
In this situation water will spread over the walls of the tube at the top
and its meniscus acquire a new radius of curvature R´ given by
2T
R'l = Rh =
g
2T
or R' =
l ·  ·g
On substituting the values of the various terms we have
2  73  103
R' =
30  103  103  9.8
= 0.5 mm
8.24. A glass capillary sealed at upper end is of length 0.11 m and internal
diameter 2 × 10–5 m. The liquid is immersed vertically into a liquid of
surface tension 5.06 × 10–2 N/m. To what length the capillary has to be
immersed so that the liquid level inside and outside the capillary becomes
the same? What will happen to water level inside the capillary if the seal is
now broken? Atmospheric pressure = 1.012 × 105 N/m2. (Rookee 1993)
Solution: Let A be the area of cross-section of tube and l be its length then
initial volume of air inside V1 = Al and initial pressure = p0.
SURFACE TENSION AND FLOW OF LIQUIDS 477
When the tube is immersed in liquid with its length x inside it, the
level of liquid inside and outside is same.
Volume of air inside the tube V2 = A (l – x) (see Fig. 8.5)
2T
Pressure of the gas in the tube P = p0 +
r
According to Boyle’s law
 2T 
p0 Al =  p0   A l  x 
 r 
l
or x
 r p0 
1  
 2T 
On substituting the values we have Fig. 8.5

0.11 0.11
x   0.01 m
105  1.012  105 11
1
2  5.06  102
When the seal is broken the pressure inside the tube is equal to
atmospheric pressure. Rise of liquid through h will be given by
2T 2  5.06  102
h  5  1.03m
r  g 10  103  9.8
Length of the tube outside the liquid = 0.11 – 0.01 = 0.1 m. In this way
the tube will be of in sufficient length.
The liquid will rise to the top and will form a new meniscus of radius
given by
hr
r' =
l
1.03  105
=  1.03  104 m
0.1
8.25. A large soap bubble of radius r is formed by uniting two soap bubbles
of radii r1 and r2 without any leakage of air under isothermal conditions.
Show that the radii of the three bubbles are connected by the relation
P r13  r22  r 3   4 r 2  r12  r22  T
where P is the atmospheric pressure and T is the surface tension of the
soap solution.
Solution: The pressure inside the three soap bubbles is given by
4T 4T 4T
p1 = P + , p2 = P + and p = P +
r1 r2 r
478 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

4 3 4
The corresponding volumes are given by v1 = r1 , v2 = r23 and
3 3
4 3
v= r
3
According to Boyle’s law
p1v1 + p2v2 = pv
 4T  4 3  4T  4 3  4T  4 3
or  P   r1   P   r2   P   r
 r1  3  r2  3  r 3
or P r1  r2  r   4T  r  r1  r2 
3 3 3 2 2 2

8.26. Calculate the amount of work done in spraying a drop of mercury of

radius 1 mm into a million identical droplets under isothermal conditions.
Surface tension of mercury = 550 × 10–3 N/m.
Solution: Let a drop of radius R be sprayed into n droplets of radius r.
Then,
4 3 4
 R  n · r 3
3 3
or R = n1/3 r
Increase in area = 4 (nr2 – R2)
 n · R2 2 
= 4   2/3  R   4  R n  1
2 1/3

n 
Work done = T · 4 R2 (n1/3 – 1)
where T is the surface tension.
Work done = 550 × 10–3 × 4 × 3.14 × 10–6 (106 × 1/3 – 1)
= 550 × 10–9 × 4 × 3.14 × 99 = 6.839 × 10–4 J
8.27. A vessel filled with air under pressure P has a soap bubble of diameter
d. The air pressure having been reduced isothermally q-fold, the bubble
diameter increased k-fold. Find the surface tension of the soap solution.
 4T 
Solution: The excess of pressure inside a soap bubble is  P   where
 r1 
r1 is the initial radii of the bubble and T is the surface tension of the soap
solution.
The initial volume is (4/3)  r13 .
On changing the pressure to P/q the radius increases to kr1.
 P 4T 
Final pressure inside bubble =    and
 q kr1 
SURFACE TENSION AND FLOW OF LIQUIDS 479
4 3 3
Final volume  k r1
3
According to Boyle’s law, pv = constant
 4T  4 3  P 4T  4
or  P   r1      k r1
3 3

 r1  3  q kr1  3
 4T   P 4T  3
or  P    k
 r1   q kr1 
 k 3  4T 2
or P 1    (k  1)
 q  r1
Pr1 1  k 3 /q 
or T 
4  k 2  1
Since r1 = d/2,
Pd  k3 
T =  1  
8  k 2  1  q 
8.28. Calculate the force of attraction between two parallel plates separated
by a distance d = 0.2 mm after a water drop of mass m = 80 mg is introduced
between them. The wetting is assumed to be complete. Surface tension of
water = 0.07 N/m.
Solution: The pressure inside the liquid film in excess of the atmospheric
pressure is given by
2T
p=
d
where T is the surface tension.
2T
Force of attraction between the plates = A
d
where A is the circular area over which the liquid wets the plate.
2T 2T m
 F Ad 
d 2
d 2
On substituting the values of various terms together with density of
water  = 103 kg/m3, we have
2  0.07  80  106
F= = 0.28 N
103  4  108
8.29. A drop of mercury placed between two glass plates acquires the
shape of a circular disc of radius R = 3 cm and thickness h = 0.2 mm.
Calculate the mass m of a weight which on being placed at the upper
480 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

plate reduces the thickness of the drop by a factor n = 3. The angle of

contact  = 135° and the surface tension of mercury = 490 × 10–3 N/m.
2T
Solution: Force F acting between the two plates =  R 2 cos  .
h
On placing the mass m on the upper plate the thickness h' of the drop
reduces to h/n and radius R' of the circular area increases to n R.
On putting the mass on the plate, the pressure is given by
mg  F 2T
= cos 
 R 2 h
mg  F 2 nT
or = cos 
nR 2
h
2  R 2T cos  2
or mg + F = ·n
h
2  R 2T cos  2 2T
or mg = ·n  ·  R 2 cos 
h h
2  R 2T cos  2 2  R 2 T cos  n2  1
mg =
h
 n  1 or m 
gh
On substituting the values of various terms, we have
1
2  3.14  9  104  490  103  8
2
m=
9.8  2  104
3.14  9  490  8  103
=
9.8  1.41
= 8.017 kg
8.30. A vertical capillary is brought in contact with a water surface. What
is the amount of heat liberated while the water rises along the capillary?
The wetting is assumed to be complete, and the surface tension is T.
Solution: When a capillary of radius r is placed in contact with water, the
water rises in it through a distance h given by
2T
= hg
r
Assuming the angle of contact to be zero.
The force acting downwards = weight of the liquid = r2hg;  is the
density of water.
h
Amount of heat liberated = work done = r2hg
2
SURFACE TENSION AND FLOW OF LIQUIDS 481
r 2
=  g h2
2
r 2 4T 2
= ·g · 2 2 2
2 r  g
2 T 2

=
g
8.31. A capillary tube of length l sealed at the top has an inner diameter
d. On placing the tube vertically in contact of a liquid of density , the
liquid rises through a height h. Find the surface tension of the liquid. The
angle of contact is  and the atmospheric pressure p0.
Solution: Initially the liquid will rise to height h in the vertical capillary
tube. Now the liquid will compress the air contained in it and will cause
an excess of pressure p = p – p0.
According to Boyle’s law,
p · (l – h) · A = p0 · l · A. Where A is the area of cross-section of the tube.
l
or p = p0
l h
h
 p = p – p0 = p0
l h
2T  h 
Pressure due to surface tension = cos    h  g  p0  , where r
r  lh
is the radius of the capillary tube.
 h  r
or T =  h  g  p0 
 l  h  2 cos 
 h  d
=  h  g  p0 
 l  h  4 cos 
8.32. One end of a capillary tube of radius r = 0.05 cm is immersed in
water to a depth of h = 3 cm. Calculate the amount of pressure required to
blow an air bubble from the lower end of the tube. Surface tension of
water = 0.07 N/m.
Solution: The pressure required should exceed the atmospheric pressure
by gh + (2T/r);  is the density of water.
2T
Excess pressure = gh +
r
On putting the values of the various terms, we have
2  0.07
= 103 × 9.8 × 3 × 10–2 + = 294 + 280 = 574 N/m2
0.05  102
482 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

8.33. A capillary tube sealed at the top has a length l = 99 mm and an

inner diameter d = 28 µm. Calculate the length h up to which the capillary
to be submerged vertically in water so that the level inside and outside the
capillary of water same. Surface tension of water = 0.07 N/m and
atmospheric pressure = 105 N/m2.
Solution: Let the water rise up to a height h. Then we have
p0 · l · A = p · (l – h) · A; p0 = atmospheric pressure
A = Area of cross-section of the capillary tube
p = Pressure of air enclosed in length (l – h)
p ·l
or p  0
l h
Owing to the compression of the air by the water of height h, excess
p0 · h
pressure of p – p0 = is created. For the levels inside and outside the
l h
capillary to coincide, the excess pressure should be equal to the pressure
due to surface tension, i.e.,
2T p ·h
= p  p0  0
d /2 l h
4T l  h 
or = p0 · h
d
p0h
or (l – h) =
4T /d
l
or h =
1  p0 d /4T
On substituting the values of the various terms, we have
99  103
h  9  103 m  0.9 cm
105  28  106
1
7  102  4
8.34. The limbs of a manometer consist of uniform capillary tubes of
radii 1.44 × 10–3 and 7.2 × 10–4 m. Find the correct pressure difference if
the level of the liquid (density 103 kg/m3, surface tension 7.2 × 10–2 N/m)
in the narrower tube is 0.2 m above that in the broader tube.
Solution: Let p1 and p2 be the pressures in th wide and narrow bore tubes
of radii r1 and r2 respectively.
2T
The pressures just below the meniscus in the two tube are p1 –
r1
2T
and p2 – respectively..
r2
SURFACE TENSION AND FLOW OF LIQUIDS 483

 2T   2T 
Pressure difference =  p1     p2    hdg
 r1   r2 
1 1
 Correct pressure difference p = p1 – p2 = hdg – 2T   
 r1 r2 
 1 1 
p = 0.2 × 103 × 9.8 – 2 × 7.2 × 10–2  4
 4 
 7.2  10 14.4  10 
= 1860 N/m2
8.35. A conical glass capillary tube of length 0.1 m has diameters 10–3 and
5 × 10–4 m at the ends. When it is just immersed in a liquid at 0°C with
larger diameter in contact with it the liquid rises to 8 × 10–2 m in the tube.
If another cylindrical glass capillary tube B when immersed in the same
liquid at 0°C, the liquid rises to 6 × 10–2 m height. The rise of liquid in the
tube B is only 5.5 × 10–2 m when the liquid is at 50°C. Find the rate at
which the surface tension changes with temperature considering the change
1
to be linear. The density of the liquid is × 104 Kg/m3 and angle of
14
contact is zero. Effect of temperature on density of liquid and glass is
negligible. (Roorkee 1994)
Solution: Let r be the radius of the meniscus in the conical tube
r  r1 r2  r1
tan  =  (see Fig. 8.6)
Lh L
On substituting the values we have
r  2.5  104  5  2.5   10 4

=
0.1  0.08 0.1
r = 3 × 10–4m
At temperature 0°C
2T0
hA · rA = hB · rB = = constt.;
g
T0 = surface tension at 0°C
0.08  3  104
rB   4  104 m Fig. 8.6
6  102
h0  g r 1  1 
T0   6  102   104  9.8  4  104   8.4  102 N/m
2 2 14 
T50 h50

T0 h0
484 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

5.5  102
T50   8.4  102  7.7  102
6  102
T T50  T0  7.7  8.4  10
2

    1.4  102 N/m/°C

 50 50
8.36. A conical capillary tube ABC with a fine bore at A is dipped into water
which wets its wall. Calculate the height upto which water will rise.
Solution: In view of Fig. 8.7
2T cos 
h= ;  is the semi vertical angle of the tube and R is the radius
R · g
of the tube at the meniscus FG.
Consider similar triangles ABD and AFE.
FE AE

BD AD
R l h

r l
r
 R = (l – h)
l
2T cos  · l
or h =
l  h  r  g
2T l cos  Fig. 8.7
or hlr – h2r =
g
2T l cos 
or h2 – hl + 0
gr
l l 2 2lT cos 
h=  
2 4 r g
8.37. Two vertical plates AB and CD submerged
partially in water forms a wedge of an angle  . The
edge of this wedge is vertical. Find the height h upto
which water will rise as a function of the distance x
measured from the edge.
Solution: Let r be the radius of the wedge and R be
the radius of curvature of the meniscus then
r = R cos  (see Fig. 8.8)
 r
=
2 x
r  · x
R =  Fig. 8.8
cos  2 cos 
SURFACE TENSION AND FLOW OF LIQUIDS 485

1 1 
Excess of pressure p = T   
 R R 
here the two curvatures are at right angles to each other, R' = 
T
p =
R
T 2T cos 
Now hg = p = =
R  x
2T cos 
or h =
 x ·  g
8.38. A soap bubble of radius R is connected to a capillary tube of length l
and radius r. Calculate the lifetime of the bubble assume the surface tension
of soap solution as T and coefficient of viscosity .
Solution: According to Poiseuilli’s formula the quantity of fluid flowing
per sec is given by
 Pr 4
V= ; P = pressure difference across the length l through which
8 l
the fluid is flowing.
Let x be the radius of the bubble at an instant t and x – dx at an instant
t + dt.
4T 4
 ·r
x 4
   x 3   x  dx   /dt
3
V =
8 l 3  

4  2 dx 
=   3x 
3  dt 
4T r 4 dx
or =  4 x2 ·
8 l x dt
 8 l 0 3
or  0 dt =  T r 4  R x d x
8 l R 4
= ·
T r4 4
2 l R 4
=
T r4
8.39. Calculate the change in the free energy of the layer when two similar
mercury droplet of diameter d = 2 mm merge isothermally. Surface tension
of mercury T = 490 × 10–3 N/m.
Solution: Total surface energy of the system of two droplets
d2
=2×4· · T = 2  d2T
4
486 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

3 3
4 D 4  d 
Now   2   ; D is the diameter of the drop formed by
3 2 3 2
coalescing the two drops.
1
D = 2 3d
Surface energy of the big drop =  D2T
 D2 
Change in the surface energy = 2  T    d2 
 2 
 2 
2
3

E = 2 Td2 1  
 2 
 1.588 
= 2 Td2 1 
 2 
On putting the value we have
E = 2 × 3.14 × 490 × 10–3 × 4 × 10–6 [1 – 0.794]
= 2 × 3.14 × 490 × 4 × 10–9 × 0.206
= 2.536 µJ
8.40. Consider a wave travelling over the surface of water. The velocity of
propagation depends both on the force of gravity and surface tension.
Calculate the critical wavelength C and minimum velocity Vmin of the wave
at the surface of water beyond which the propagation is mainly due to
the force of gravity. Surface tension of water = 73 × 10–3 N/m.
Solution: Velocity V of the wave is given by
 g 2 T
V=  ; T = Surface tension of water
2 
 = density of water
The sum is minimum when
 g 2 T

2  
T
Therefore C = 2 
g
1
T g 
4

Vmin = 2 ·  
  
On substituting the values of various terms we have
1
 73  103  2

C = 2 × 3.14  3 
 9.8  10 
= 1.71 cm
SURFACE TENSION AND FLOW OF LIQUIDS 487
1
 73  103  9.8 
4

Vmin = 1.414  
 1000 
= 23.1 cm/sec
8.41. A water drop falls in air with a uniform velocity. Calculate the
difference in the radius of curvature at the upper and lower points of the
surface of the drop which are separated by a distance h.
Solution: Let r1 and r2 be the radius of curvature at the two points (see
Fig. 8.9).
The pressure inside the surface just below the upper surface is given
by
2T
p1 = p0 + ; p0 = atmospheric pressuree
r1
Similarly the pressure just above the lower surface is given by
2T
p2 = p0 +
r2
1 1
p1 – p2 = 2T    = gh
 r1 r2 
 g h · r1 r2
(r2 – r1) = Fig. 8.9
2T
h
When h is small then r1 = r2 
2
 g h3
 r2 – r1 =
8T
8.42. Find the force of attraction between
the two plates of width l partially
submerged into water keeping them d
apart (see Fig. 8.10). The wetting is
complete and the water lying between
the plates is not reaching the upper edge
of the plates.
Solution:  is taken to be zero.
d
=R
2
1 1 
p = T    ; R' = 
 R R  Fig. 8.10
T 2T
p =  = hg; h = height of water column.
R d
488 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

here the pressure just below the meniscus in between the plates is smaller
than the pressure due to the atmosphere at the same level outside them
and due to this they are pushed towards each other by a force F or in other
words they seem to attract each other.
2 F 2T
Now p =  ; A = lh
A d
TA T · l h
or F= 
d d
T l 2T
= ·
d dg
2T 2l
=
 g · d2
8.43. Two equal drops of water fall through air with a steady velocity of
10 cm/s. If the drops coalesce, what will be the new terminal velocity ?
Solution: Let R be the radius of the big drop formed and r the radii of the
drops which are going to coalesce. The volume of the big drop is equal to
the combined volume of the two drops, i.e.,
4 4
 R 3  2  r 3
3 3
or R = 21/3r
2    2
Terminal veolcity v = gr
9 
where  = density of water
 = density of air
and  = viscosity of air
2   
Now 10 = g ·r2
9 
2    
and V = g R2
9 
On dividing the two, we have
V R2
= 2  22/3
10 r
 V = 10 × 22/3 = 10 × 1.587 = 15.87 cm/s
8.44. An air bubble of radius 1 cm, rises steadily through a liquid of
density 1.5 g/cm3 at the rate of 0.35 cm/sec. Calculate the coefficient of
viscosity of the liquid.
Solution: The terminal velocity is given by the equation
SURFACE TENSION AND FLOW OF LIQUIDS 489

2   
v=– g ·r2
9 
On neglecting the density of air, we have
2 2
v =– gr
9
2 
 =  · gr 2
9 v
2 1.5  980  1
=–  = 9.33 × 102 poise (all are in the CGS system)
9  0.35
here v is negative.
8.45. A small sphere is dropped in a Jar containing a liquid. The dragging
force has been found to vary with its velocity according to R = – bv. Where
b is constant. Find its velocity as a function of time.
Solution: The equation of motion of the sphere is given by
dv
mg – bv = m
dt
dv mg
When = 0, v = vc (terminal velocity) =
dt b
dv
 dt  b
g v
m
m  bv 
t=– loge  g   C
b  m
The value of the constant C is determined using the boundary
conditions
At t = 0, v = 0
m
C = loge g
b
m  bv 
t=– loge 1  
b  mg 
m  v 
=– log e 1  
b  vc 
v  bt
or 1 = e m
vc
or 
v = vc 1  e
 bt
m

490 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

8.46. A small sphere of mass m = 3 gm is dropped in a viscous liquid

without any initial velocity. The sphere acquires a terminal velocity vc =
7.5 cm/sec. Calculate the time which the sphere will take to acquire a
velocity equal to 0.8 vc.
Solution:
mg 3  980
b =  = 392 gm/sec
vc 7.5
m 3
= = 7.65 × 10–3 sec
b 392
 
t
3 
0.8 vc = vc  1  e 7.65  10 
 
 
t

7.65  103
e = 0.2
t
3
e 7.65  10 =5
t 5
= 2.303 log10
7.65  103
t = 7.65 × 10–3 × 2.303 × 0.6990
t = 12.3 × 10–3 sec
8.47. In a region where there is no gravitational field a small sphere moving
with an initial velocity v0 in a viscous medium experiences a draging force
R = – bv. Determine the velocity of sphere as a function of time.
Solution: Equation of motion of sphere is given by
dv
m = – bv
dt
dv b
 v =  m  dt
bt
loge v = – C
m
at t = 0, v = v0
 C = log v0
or v = v0 e bt /m
8.48. A ball of mass m is placed in a tall vessel containing a liquid and is
released without a push. The density of the liquid is 1/ times that of the
ball. When the ball moves a force of resistance of the medium appears
that is proportional to the speed; find the velocity of the ball as a function
of time.
Solution: The equation of motion of the ball is
SURFACE TENSION AND FLOW OF LIQUIDS 491
4 3 dv 4 3 4 
r   r  g  r 3 g  kv
3 dt 3 3 
dv mg
or m  mg   kv
dt 
dv  1 k
or  g 1    v
dt   m
dv
or  dt
 1 k
g 1    v
  m
On integration we have
  1 k  k
log  g  1    v    ·t  C
    m  m
 1
At t = 0, v = 0  C = log g  1  
 
With this value of C we have
kv  1 kt
1 g 1    e m
m  

or v =
mg
k
 1

1   1  e
 
 kt m

8.49. A ball rises to the surface at a constant velocity is a liquid whose
density is four times greater than that of the material of the ball. How
many times is the force of friction acting on the rising ball greater than its
weight?
Solution: Let  be the density of the material of the ball, the equation of
motion is given by
4 3 4
r  g  r 3 · 4  g  F  0 ; F = Force of friction
3 3
r = radius of the ball
4 3
 F = r · 3  g
3
= 3 times the weight of the ball
8.50. A cork ball with a radius of 5 mm rises to the surface in a vessel filled
with castor oil. Find the dynamic and kinematic viscosities of the castor
oil if the ball rises with a constant velocity of 3.5 cm/sec. Density of cork
 = 200 kg/m3. Density of castor oil  = 900 kg/m3.
Solution: The equation of motion of the ball is given by
492 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

4 3 4
r  g  r 3  g  6 r v  0 ; r = radius of the ball, here v is negative.
3 3
 = dynamic viscosity.
9  v = 2r ( – ) g
2

2r 2     g
=
9v
On putting the values we have
2  25  106  700  9.8
=
9  3.5  102
0.5  7  9.8
= = 1.09 N.s/m2
9  3.5

Kinematic viscosity v = = 1.21 × 10–3 m2/s

8.51. A sphere of radius r = 1 mm is submerged into glycerine contained in
a tall and wide vessel from the walls of the vessel without any
push. Calculate the distance covered by the sphere in time t. Density
of the material of the sphere  = 10 × 103 kg/m3, density of glycerine 0 =
1.21 × 103 kg/m3, viscosity of glycerine  = 0.35 Pa.s.
Solution: The equation of motion of the sphere is given by
4 3 dv 4 3 4
r  ·  r  g  r 30 g  6 r v
3 dt 3 3
dv  9  v
or g  0 g  ·
dt  2 r2 
v dv t
or  0   0  9 v 
  dt
0

 g 1    2 
    2r  

   9 v
Let us substitute g  1  0   2  x , then
   2r 
2r  x
2
dx t

9  g

 1 
0 
 x

   dt
0


    9 v     9 t
or log  g  1  0   2   log g  1  0    2
    2 r      2 r 
9 t
9 v  2
or 1   e 2t 
  
2r 2  g  1  0 
 
SURFACE TENSION AND FLOW OF LIQUIDS 493

ds 2r g    0    2 
2 9 t
2r 
or v    1  e 
dt 9  
On integration
2r 2 g   0  2 r 2 g    0  2 r 2   2 r 2 
9 t

s ·t   e C
9 9 9
4r 4 g     0 
At t = 0, s = 0  C = –
812
2 r 2 g    0  4 r 4 g     0    2 
9 t
2r 
s  t  1  e 
9 812  
On putting the values of various terms we have
s = 0.0547 t – 0.000347 [1 – e –157.5t]
8.52. A steel ball falls in a broad vessel filled with transformer oil having
density  = 900 kg/m3. Find the maximum diameter of the ball. Viscosity
of the oil  = 0.8 N.s/m2. Density of steel  = 7700 kg/m3. Reynold’s number
Re = 0.5.
Solution: The equation of motion of the ball is given by
4 D3 D D Re Dv 
      g = 6  v  6  ·  ; Re =
3 8 2 2 D · 
D =diameter of the ball
D3 3 2 Re
     g =
6 
1
 18 · 2 · Re  3

D =  
     g 
On putting the values
1
 18  0.82  0.5  3

D =  
 900   7700  900   9.8 
= 4.58 mm
8.53. A steady flow of air directed vertically upward and having a speed of
u = 20 cm/sec set in over a heated section of the Earth’s surface. The flow
contains a spherical dust particle moving upward at a steady speed of
v = 4 cm/sec. Determine the radius of the dust particle. Density of the
particle  = 5 × 103 kg/m3, density of air = 1.29 kg/m3, viscosity of air
 = 1.72 × 10–5 Pa.s.
Solution: The equation of motion of the dust particle is given by
494 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

4 3 4
r  g   r 3  g  6 r (v  u) ; r = radius of the dust particle,
3 3
here v is to be taken –ve.
9
or r 2 ( – ) g =  u  v 
2
9  u  v 
r=
2     g
On putting the values of various terms we have
9 1.72  105  16  102  103
r= 
2 9.8  5000  1.29
= 1.59 × 10–2 mm
8.54. A pitot tube is fixed to mains of diameter 10 cm, and the pressure
difference indicated by the manometer is 5 cm height of water column.
Find the volume of water flowing through the mains is 60 s.
Solution: Area of cross-section of the main =  × 52 × 10–4 m2
Loss in kinetic energy per unit mass = gain in pressure energy
1 2 p
or v   gh
2 
or v  2 g h
Volume of water flowing per second
= av = 25  × 10–4 × 2  9.8  5  102
98
= 25  × 10–4 ×
10
= 2.5  × 10–4 × 2 × 7
Volume of water flowing in 60 s = 2.5  × 10–4 × 2 × 7 × 60
= 0.465 m 3

8.55. A bottle is fitted with a siphon made of capillary tube. Compare the
time taken to empty the bottle when it is filled (i) with water, and (ii) with
a liquid of specific gravity 0.9. The viscosities of water and the liquid are
0.01 and 0.03 poise respectively.
solution: Volume of liquid flowing in t sec through a capillary tube is
given by
 P a 4t
V=
8 l
Where l and a are the length and radius of the capillary tube.  is the
SURFACE TENSION AND FLOW OF LIQUIDS 495
coefficient of viscosity. P is the pressure difference across the ends of the
tube.
We know that P  ;  being the specific gravity of the liquid.
1 a 4t1
V1 
8 1 l
2 a 4t 2
and V2 
8 2 l
here V1 and V2 are the volume of water and liquid flowing in t1 and t2 s
respectively.
1t1  2t 2
 
1 2
t1 1 2 0.01
or  ·   0.9  0.3 s
t 2 2 1 0.03
8.56. A tube with two limbs bent at right angles to each other is held with
one end dipped in a stream of water and opposite to the direction of flow.
If the velocity of water is 1 m/s, find the height to which water rises in the
vertical limb of the tube.
Solution: The flow of water through the tube will stop. This will result in
loss of kinetic energy which will be compensated by gain in pressure
energy.
Kinetic energy per unit mass = pressure energy per unit mass
1 2 p
or v   gh
2 
2
v 1
or h =   5.1cm
2 g 2  9.8
8.57. The radii of a pipe are 5 cm and 3 cm at the points where a
venturimeter is connected. The difference of pressure at these points
corresponds to 10 cm of water column. Find the volume of water following
per second.
Solution:
2  p1  p2 
Volume of water flowing per second V = a1a2
a2
1  a22  
where p1 and p2 are the pressure at the two points where the areas of cross-
section are a1 and a2 respectively, and  is the density of water.
496 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

On substituting the values of various terms, we have

2  10  102  9.8  103

V =  × 25 ×  × 9 × 10–8
 25  2   9  2   108  103
 
  25  9  105  2  7
=
4  34
= 0.004244 m3 = 4244 c.c.
8.58. Water is flowing through a pipe fitted with a jet at one end at a rate of
10 c.c. per second. The diameter of the orifice is 1 mm. What is the reaction
force observed on the hands when one holds it?
Solution: Consider a tube of area of cross-section a. Let us allow water to
flow through it with a velocity v m/s.
Volume of water flowing per second = av
Mass of water flowing per second = av,  is the density of water
Momentum of water flowing per second = av 2
 av   av 
2 2
 
 Force = av = 2 
a r 2

=
10  10 
6 2
 10 3


10
 0.1275 N
8
3.14  25  10 3.14  25
8.59. A fire extinguishing pipe is fitted with a narrow bore tube of diameter
5 cm at one end. Calculate the force exerted by water when it is squirted on
a wall with a horizontal velocity of 20 m/s: (i) when water falls vertically
downwards after striking the wall, and (ii) when water returns with a
horizontal velocity of 10 m/s.
Solution:
(i) In the first case
Momentum of water flowing per second
= force = av 2
= r2v 2 = 3.14 × (2.5)2 × 10–4 × 103 × 202
= 785.0 N
(ii) Required force in the second case
= av 2 + avv'; v' is the velocity of water at the return
= 3.14 × (2.5)2 × 10–4 × 103 × 202 + 3.14 × (2.5)2 × 10–4 × 103 × 20 × 10
= 785 + 392.5
= 1177.5 N
SURFACE TENSION AND FLOW OF LIQUIDS 497
8.60. A heart pumps blood at a rate of 5000 c.c. per minute at a pressure of
130 mm of mercury. Calculate the power of the heart.
Solution:
work force × displacement
Power =   F v
time time
= p · av
where p is the pressure and a is the area of cross-section of the vein
Power = p × volume of blood flowing per second
On substituting the values, we have,
5000
Power = 130 × 10–3 × 13.6 × 103 × 9.8 × × 10–6
60
13  13.6  9.8  5
=  103
6
= 1.443 W
8.61. A tank with a small hole at its bottom contains water and kerosene
of densities 1 = 1.0 and 2 = 0.8 g/cm3 respectively. At what velocity will
water flow through the hole if the height of water column h1 = 20 cm and
that of kerosene h2 = 10 cm ?
Solution:
  
Total pressure energy per unit mass =  h1 g  h2 g 2 
 1 
1 2
Kinetic energy per unit mass = v
2
  
v2 = 2g  h1  h2 2 
 1 

  
or v = 2 g  h1  h2 2 
 1 
On substituting the values, we have
v= 2  980  20  10  0.8 = 2  980  28 (all in the CGS system)
= 234.3 cm/s
8.62. A L-shaped tube with a small orifice O at the closed end is lowered in
a canal in which water is flowing with velocity v = 5 m/s (see Fig. 8.11). The
orifice is at a height h = 25 cm above the water level. To what height H will
the water jet spurt ? g = 10 m/s2.
Solution: In this case, total kinetic energy per unit mass = total pressure
energy per unit mass
498 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

1 2
or v  g  H  h
2
v2
or H = h
2g
On substituting the values,
we have
25
H=  0.25
2  10
= 1.25 – 0.25 = 1 m Fig. 8.11

8.63. A horizontally placed cylinder containing a piston has an oriffice O

of cross-sectional area a = 2 mm2. The space between the closed end of
the cylinder containing the orifice and the piston is filled with water of
volume V = 2000 c.c. (Fig. 8.12). A constant force is applied on the piston
for a duration of t = 3 min. Calculate the amount of work done in order to
squeeze the entire bulk of water from the cylinder.
Solution: Let v be the velocity of water going out of the orifice. Then,
Volume of water flowing per second = av
Total volume of water flowing in t s = av · t = V
Let a force F be applied on the piston of area of cross-section A. Then
F = PA where P is the pressure on the liquid.
Now the pressure energy per unit mass = kinetic energy per unit mass
P 1 2
i.e.,  v
 2
F 1 1 V2
or   ·v2   2 2
A 2 2 at
1 V2
or F =  2 2 · A
2 at
Fig. 8.12
1 V2 1 V3
Work done = F · x =  2 2 A · x   2 2
2 at 2 at
On substituting the values of various terms, we have

1 10   2000  10 
3 6 3

Work done = 
2  2  106 2  180  180
103  8  109
=
2  4  1012  18  18  102
104
= = 30.86 J
18  18
SURFACE TENSION AND FLOW OF LIQUIDS 499
8.64. A pitot tube (Fig. 8.13) is fixed in
a pipeline of cross-sectional area A =
5 cm2 through which nitrogen gas of
density d = 12.5 g/cm3 is flowing. The
difference of pressure corresponds to a
length l = 10 cm of water column. Find
the volume of gas flowing per second.
Density of water d0 = 1 g/cm3.
Solution: Let v be the velocity of gas.
Then
Volume of gas flowing per second Fig. 8.13
=A·v
The pressure energy per unit mass = kinetic energy per unit mass
P 1 2
or  v
d 2
Now the pressure is measured in terms of a water column of length l,
i.e.,
P = ld0g
2l d0 g
 v
d
2l d0 g
Volume of gas flowing per second = Av = A
d
On substituting the values of various terms, we have
2  10  102  1  9.8
Volume of gas flowing per second = 5 × 10–4
1.25
5  104  2  7 14
=   104
5 5 5
= 6.26 × 10–4 m3
8.65. A horizontal cylindrical tube of
length l filled with liquid has an orifice
O at one end. The tube rotates with
an angular velocity  about an axis PQ
perpendicular to its length and
passing through the other end (Fig.
8.14). Find the velocity of the liquid
in terms of the distance H.
Solution: Let us assume that the
entire length of the tube is filled with Fig. 8.14
500 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

a liquid of density . The total mass of the liquid = Al when A is the area of
cross-section of the tube.
Mass per unit length = A
Consider an element of liquid of length dx situated at a distance x
from the axis PQ.
Centrifugal force due to the rotation of the system = A dx x 2
dp
Pressure energy per unit mass =  2 x dx

dp p l 1
Total pressure energy =    2  xdx  2 l 2   l  H  
2

  l  H 2  
1
= 2 H  2l  H 
2
This should be equal to kinetic energy per unit mass
1 2 2  2l  1
i.e.,  H   1  v 2
2 H  2
 2l 
or  H   1  v
H 
8.66. In Fig. 8.15 water of density d = 1.0 g/cm3 flows along a horizontal
tube out of a wide tank. Find the velocity of water flow if H1 = 5 cm, H2 =
10 cm and H3 = 20 cm. All distances l are equal.

Fig. 8.15
Solution: At O the total energy per unit mass = H3 g.
At B we have
1 2
H 3g = H 2g + v B
2
At C we have
1 2 1
v B = H1g + vC2
2 2
SURFACE TENSION AND FLOW OF LIQUIDS 501

or vC = 2  H 3  H 2  H1  g
On substituting the values of H1, H2 and H3, we have
vC = 2  20  10  5  980
= 98  100 = 70 2 = 70 × 1.41 = 98.7 cm/s

8.67. Water flows with a velocity v along a rubber tube in the form of a
circular ring of radius R (Fig. 8.16a). The diameter of the tube is d. With
what force is the rubber tube stretched ?

Fig. 8.16a Fig. 8.16b

Solution: Let the required force be T (Fig. 8.16b).
The resolved part of T along PP1 and

QQ1 = T sin
2

Net downward force = 2T sin
2

= 2T = T · 
2
mv 2
This force is balanced by the force F = where m is the mass of
R
water confined in the part of the tube PQ.
d2
m =   R   ·  ; where  is the density of water..
4
d2 v2
 T ·  = · R  · ·
4 R
 d 2 R  v 2  d 2 v 2
or T = · 
4 R 4
8.68. In ancient period a typically designed vessel filled with water and
having a small orifice O has been used to record the time. With this setup
the time was evaluated in view of the height of the level of water in the
502 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

vessel. What should be the shape of the vessel which could provide a
uniform time scale.
Solution: Let A be the area of water level in the upper vessel and v be
the velocity with which the upper level lowers itself. Let a be the area of
orifice O.
Velocity of water through the orifice is given by
V= 2 g y (see Fig. 8.17)
Now Av = aV where A = x2
 x2 a
= = constant
2g y v
2v 2 x 4
y =
2 g a2 Fig. 8.17
or y = kx4
The shape should be designed by joining apex of two parabolas.
8.69. A cylindrical vessel of height h = 19.6 cm and base radius R = 10 cm
has an orifice of radius r = 2 mm at its bottom. The vessel is completely
filled with water. Calculate the time required to squeeze all water from
the vessel.
Solution:
dh
  R2 · =  r 2v ; v  2 g h
dt
dh
 R2 = r2 2g h
dt
0 r2 t

 h h 2 dh = R2 2 g ·  0 dt
1

r2
2 h = 2 2g ·t
R
R2 2h
t = ·
r2 g
On substituting the values of the various terms we have
100  104 2  19.6  102
t=
4  106 9.8
= 500 sec
8.70. Two circular holes A and B each of radius r = 5 mm separated by
h = 40 cm are created on the opposite sides of a rectangular vessel filled
with water (see Fig. 8.18). Find the resultant reaction force of water going
out of the vessel.
SURFACE TENSION AND FLOW OF LIQUIDS 503
Solution:
Velocity of water V1 at A = 2gh

Velocity of water V2 at B = 2g h   h 

Force F1 = r 2 V12   r 2  ·2 g h

Force F2  r 2 V22   r 2·2 g h   h
Net force F = r2 · 2g · [h + h – h]
= 2 r2g · h Fig. 8.18

On substituting the values of the various terms we have

F = 2 × 3.14 × 25 × 10–6 × 103 × 9.8 × 40 × 10–2
= 0.615 N
8.71. A large open top container of negligible mass and uniform cross-
sectional area A has a small hole of cross-sectional area A/100 in its side
wall near the bottom. The container is kept on a smooth horizontal floor
and contains a liquid of density  and mass mo. Assuming that the liquid
starts flowing out horizontally through the hole at t = 0. Calculate (i) the
acceleration of the container and (ii) the velocity when 75% of the liquid
has drained out. (IIT 1997)
Solution:
dm
(i) F = Ma = v · ; a = acceleration
dt
v dM
a = ·
M dt
v  A 
= · ·v
M  100 
 Av 2
a =
100 M
v = 2gh
2 A ·g h
a =
100 M
H 1
(ii) When 75% of the liquid is drained then h = and M = (AH)
4 4
H
2g  A ·
a= 4  g
A H  50
100
4
504 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

As the system was at rest

Mv = 0
dM dv
or v M =0
dt dt
dv dM
= 
v M
dh dM dh
or dv = 2gh · ; v  2 g h and 
h M h
H

2 g ·  h  2 dh
1
v =
4

= 2 2 g  H  H 2 
 
= 2gH

8.72. A wide open tank has an opening at which a narrowing tube is fitted
without any leakage. The radius of the attached tube decreases from r1 to
r2. The tank is filled with water and the level of water is at a height h above
the tube (see Fig. 8.19a). Neglecting the viscosity of water find the horizontal
force tending to detach the tube out of the tank.

Fig. 8.19a Fig. 8.19b

Solution: In Fig 8.19b consider a section of radius r at a distance x

from O.
r1 r r
=  2  tan 
x1 x x2
 r = x tan 
In view of Bernoulli’s theorem
1 1
p0 + gh = v 2  p  v22  p0 ; v = velocity at O'
2 2
p = pressure at O'
p0 = atmospheric pressure
v2 = 2gh
SURFACE TENSION AND FLOW OF LIQUIDS 505
Further r2v =  r22v2
r22
v = 2g h
r2
1 r24
p – p0 = p = change of pressure =  g h  · ·2gh
2 r4
 r4 
=  g h 1  24 
 r 
Consider an element of area 2 rdr at O'
 r4 
Force dF = gh 1  24  2 rdr
 r 
 r4 
= gh 1  4 2 4  2  x tan  · tan  · dx
 x tan  
x1 2  g hr24 x1 dx
F =  dF  2 gh · tan 2  x x d x  
2 tan2  x2 x3
 g h r24 1 1
= gh · tan   x1  x2    2  2
2 2 2

tan2   x2 x1 
 g h r24 2
= gh r1  r2   r1  r22 
2 2

r12 r22 
2
r12  r22 
=  g h 
r12
8.73. A tank of height h having a small circular hole of radius r at A is filled
with water. The stream of water at A after striking the blade of the wheel
of radius R continues to move with the velocity of the blade. Assuming
the angular velocity of the wheel as  calculate the force acting on the
blades of the wheel.
Solution: Velocity of water at A
= 2 g h (see Fig. 8.20)
Velocity of the tip of the blade
=R
Velocity of water relative to
the wheel v =  2 g h  R 
F = rate of change of momentum
 
2
= r 2v 2 = r 2 2 g h  R ;
 = density of water. Fig. 8.20
506 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

8.74. A liquid of density  and viscosity  flows through a tube of length l

and radius R. The velocity of the liquid at a distance r from the axis of the
 r2 
tube is given by v = v0  1  2  . Calculate (i) the volume of liquid flowing
 R 
per sec (ii) the pressure difference across the ends of the tube.
Solution:
(i) Consider coaxial cylindrical shell of liquid of radius r and r + dr.
Area of the shell = 2 rdr
R  r2 
Volume of liquid flowing per sec = V =  0
2 r dr · v0  1  2 
 R 
 R 2 R 2  v0 R 2
= 2  v0   
 2 4  2
(ii) We know that
dv
 · 2 r l ·   P ·  r 2 (–ve sigh shows that the two forces are in
dr
opposite direction)
Pr dr
 dv    2 l
P = pressure difference across the two
ends of the tube.
 Pr 2
v= C
4 l
where C is constant whose value is determined with the help of
the condition r = R, v = 0
P R2
C =
4 l
P
v =  R 2  r 2 
4 l 
P
 R2  r 2 
R
V =  0 2 r dr ·
4 l
2  P  R4 R4   P R4
=   
4 l  2 4  8 l
v 0 R 2  P R4
=
2 8 l
4 l · v0
P =
R2
SURFACE TENSION AND FLOW OF LIQUIDS 507
8.75. The radius of a pipeline decreases exponentially via relation
r = r0 e–x where  is constant and x is the distance measured from the inlet
of the pipeline. Calculate the ratio of Reynold’s number for two radii
of the pipeline observed at separation x.
Solution: The critical velocity is defined as
K
vC = ; K = Reynold’s number
r
 = coefficient of viscosity
r = radius of the tube
 = density of liquid
K1  K 2
Now  x1

r0 e r0e  x2
K1
 e  x1 · e  x2  e  2 1   e ·  x
 x x

K2
8.76. An iron ball of density 1 = 7.8 × 103 kg/m3 is sinking in glycerine of
viscosity  = 1.39 Pa. Estimate the maximum diameter of the ball at which
the flow around it still remain laminar. Reynold’s number K = 0.5 when
the characteristic length is taken to be the diameter of the sphere. Density
of glycerine 2 = 1.26 × 103 kg/m3.
Solution:
2r 2
Terminal velocity vt = 1  2  ; r = radius of the ball
9
K
Critical velocity vc = ; D = diameter of the ball
2 D
For motion to be laminar vt = vc
K  2r 2
   1  2  g
2 D 9 
1

 18 K 2 
3

 D = 2r =  
 2  1  2  g 
On substituting the values we have
1

 
3
18  0.5  1.392
D =  
 1.26  10   7.8  1.26   10  9.8 
3 3

= 0.5992 × 10–2 m
8.77. A tank has a small hole at A at a height h1 from the bottom (see
Fig. 8.21). Initially the hole is closed and a liquid of density  is filled into
the tank upto a height h. The tank is covered from the top. The space
508 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

between the top of the tank and the level of the liquid is filled with air at
pressure P. The hole is now opened. Determine the speed of liquid at A.
Solution: At A we have total energy as
1
P0 + v 2 + gh1; v = velocity of liquid at A
2
P0 = atmospheric pressure
At B we have total energy as P + gh
1
 P0 + v2 + gh1 = P + gh
2
2
v =  P  P0   g  h  h1  


2  P  P0 
v =  2 g h  h1 
 Fig. 8.21

8.78. A spherical ball of radius 1 × 10 m and of density 104 kg/m3 falls

–4

freely under gravity through a distance h before entering a tank of water.

If after entering the water the velocity of the ball does not change, find h.
The coefficient of viscosity of water is 9.8 × 10–6 N.sec/m2.
(Roorkee 1990)
Solution: The velocity of the ball after falling through a distance h is given
by
V= 2gh
According to Stoke’s law
2r
2
    g
V=
9 
On putting the values we have
2 10  10  10   9.8
8 4 3

V= 
9 9.8  106
= 20 m/sec
V2
h=
2g
202
= = 20.41 m
2  9.8
8.79. Calculate the rate of flow of glycerine of density 1.25 × 103 kg/m3
through the conical section of a pipe if the radii at its ends are 0.1 m and
0.04 m and the pressure drop across its length is 10 N/m2.
(Roorkee 1991)
SURFACE TENSION AND FLOW OF LIQUIDS 509
Solution: Let A1 and A2 be the area of cross-section at the two ends and v1
and v2 be the velocities of flow of glycerine then
A1v1 = A2v2
According to Bernoulli’s theorem
1 2 1 2
P1 + v1  P2  v2
2 2
2  P1  P2 
Now v1 = A2
  A12  A22 
2  P1  P2 
Rate of flow = A1v1 = A1 A2
  A12  A22 
On putting the values we have

2  10
Rate of flow = 102  · 0.16  102 
1.25  10 10 · 2  104 2  0.16 
3 4 2
 
= 6.28 × 10–4 m3/sec
8.80. A liquid is kept in a cylindrical vessel which is rotated about its axis.
The liquid rises at the sides. If the radius of the vessel is r = 0.05 m and the
speed of rotation is  = 4 rad/sec, find the difference in height of the
liquid at the centre of the vessel and its sides. (Roorkee 1987)
Solution: Consider a layer of liquid of radius x and thickness dx.
Mass of liquid in the layer = 2 xdx · y ·  (see Fig. 8.22)
Let dp be the difference of pressure across the layer then

 d p    xdx
2

x2
p = 2 C
2
where C is constant whose value is obtained by the
boundary condition At x = 0, p = p0
 C = p0
1
 p = p0 + 2x2
2 Fig. 8.22
1
p – p0 = gy = 2x2
2
2 2
or y = ·x
2g
This is the equation of parabola.
510 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

On substituting the values we have

16  3.142  0.052
y =
2  9.8
= 0.02 m = 2 cm
8.81. A tank filled with water upto a height H has a hole O of area A at its
bottom (see Fig. 8.23). The water of the tank is drained out through this
hole. Calculate the depth h below O at which the area of the stream reduces
to half of its value at O.
Solution: Let v be the velocity of water at O then its velocity at a depth h is
given by
Av = 0.5 A.V
v
V=  2v
0.5
According to Bernoulli’s theorem
1
p0 + gH = p0 + V 2 – gh;
2
p0 = atmospheric pressure
V2 = 2g (H + h)
4v 2 = v 2 + 2 gh; v = 2gH
3v 2 = 2 gh Fig. 8.23
3v 2 3
or h =  · 2 gH  3 H
2 g 2g
8.82. A vertical slit of length l and width b is cut in the side wall of a wide
vertical rectangular vessel of height h. The slit is closed and the vessel is
completely filled with water. Calculate the force of reaction of the water
coming out of the vessel immediately after the slit is opened.
Solution:
Velocity of water at A = 2 g h  l  (see Fig. 8.24)
Velocity of water at a depth dl below A
=2 g h  dl   l 
Consider an element of length dl and width
b within the slit.
Force dF = bdl  2 g  h  dl  l  
l l
Net force F =  d F  b · 2 g h  0
dl  2 g  b  l d l
0

=  b g 2 hl  l  =  b g l  2h  l 
2
Fig. 8.24
   

  

  
 
  
 
  

Fig. 8.25
    

  

  
  
   

 
    
 
  
   
 
    
 
  

          
   

  

      

    
      

      
  

 
   
 
 
  
 

    

      


  

   

  

   Fig. 8.26

 
  

  


  

 


 Fig. 8.27

   
 

  
 


   
  
 


Fig. 8.28

  

      

 
       
 

  

   

  

     

 
  
 
 



   



 Fig. 8.29






 


 


 
Fig. 8.30



 


 
      


  

    


 
    
 

  


   


   


  
   
  





    


  


   

 
    
 
Fig. 8.31
   


   



   
 




  




 



 








     
 



  

  






  


 
   

   






   


 

   

 
 



   



        


         
   
 
      


  Fig. 8.32



   
  
    

Fig. 8.33

    

 

  
 

       
 
  

 Fig. 8.34




 

   
  
  
   
  
      

   


     
  
   
   
  


 
  
 






 




 
    

 

Fig. 8.35


 Fig. 8.36



 
  
 
 9
SOUND

9.1. Longitudinal sound waves produced at the surface of a sea return

after being reflected at the bottom in 2.5 s. Calculate the depth of that sea.
The coefficient of compression of water is 4.6 × 10–10 m2/N and the density
of sea water 1,030 kg/m3.
Solution: Let the depth of sea be h. Then
h
= v; where v is the velocity of sound.
1.25
1
 h = 1.25 v = 1.25
4.6  1010  1030
= 1816 m
9.2. Calculate the time taken by sound travel a distance x between point
P and Q. The air temperature between these points varies linearly between
1 and 2. The velocity of sound in air is given by v = a  where a is a
positive constant.
Solution: Let v1 and v2 be the velocities at temperatures  1 and  2
respectively then v1 = a 1 and v2 = a 2
v  v2 a
Average velocity v = 1   1  2 
2 2
x a
 v =   1  2 
t 2
2x
or t=
a  1  2 
9.3. A man is sitting close to a wall and beating a drum. When the rate is 90
per min, it is not possible to differentiate between the sound and its echo.
Find the distance between the wall and the place of beating the drum.
Velocity of sound is 330 m/s.
90 3
Solution: Rate of beating drum =  per second
60 2
526 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Time taken between two consecutive beats of drum = 2/3 s

Now in this time the wave has travelled a distance 2x where x is the
distance between the wall and the place of beating the drum.
2x
Now = 330
2/3
or 3x = 330
or x = 110 m
9.4. An engine is approaching a cliff at a constant speed. When it is at a
distance of 0.9 km from the cliff, it sounds a whistle. The echo of the sound
is heard by the driver after 5 s. Determine the speed of the engine, assuming
the velocity of sound in air to be 330 m/s.
Solution: Let O and B be the initial and final positions of the engine (Fig.
9.1).
Now OB = 5v where v is the velocity of the engine.
During the period of 5 s, distance travelled by the sound waves
= OA + AB = (1800 – 5v) m
distance
Now, Velocity =
time
1800  5v
or 330 =
5
or 1650 = 1800 – 5v
Fig. 9.1
or v = 30 m/s
9.5. Find the refractive index of a sound wave at the air glass interface
and the limit angle of internal reflection. Young’s modulus for glass
Y = 6.9 × 1010 N/m2. Density of glass  = 2.6 gm/c.c. Air temperature is
27°C. Velocity of sound at 0°C = 330 m/sec.
Solution:
velocity of sound waves in air
n=
velocity of sound waves in glass
300
V0
273
= ; V0 = velocity of sound at 0°C.
6.9  1010
2.6  103
300 300 · 26
=
273 · 690  103
330  17.32  5.099
= = 0.067
16.52  26.267  103
SOUND 527

sin C
= a  g  0.067
sin 90
C = 3° 48'
9.6. Calculate the ratio of the speed of sound in neon to that in water
vapours at any temperature. [Mol. wt of neon = 2.02 × 10–2 kg/mol and for
water vapours = 1.8 × 10–2 kg/mol.] (Roorkee 1992)
Solution: The velocity of sound in neon and water vapours is given by
RT
VNe =  Ne ·
M Ne
RT
VW = W ·
MW

VNe  Ne  MW
=
VW M Ne  W
5
Ne = (mono atomic gas)
3
4
W = (poly atomic gas)
3
5
 1.8  1012
VNe 3 5  1.8
=  = 1.055
VW 4 2 4  2.02
 2.02  10
3
9.7. The speed of sound in dry air at N.T.P is 332 m/s. Assuming air as
composed of 4 parts of N2 and one part of O2. Calculate the velocity of
sound in O2 under similar conditions when the densities of O2 and N2 at
N.T.P. are in the ratio of 16:14 respectively.
Solution:
VN2 · dN 2  V02 · d02
dair =
VN2  V02
VN 2 = 4V , V02  V
4 dN2  d02
dair =
5
d02  dN 2 
= 1  4 
5  d02 
d0  14 
= 2 1  4  
5  16 
528 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

9
dair = d0
10 2
3P 3 P ·10 10
332 =   V02
dair 9 · d02 9
V02 = 332 0.9 = 314.96 m/s

9.8. The planet Jupiter has an atmosphere mainly of methane at a

temperature –130°C. Calculate the velocity of sound on this planet
assuming  for the mixture to be 1.3. Gas constant R = 8.3 J/mol/°C.
Solution:
 RT
V =
M
T = 273 – 130 = 143°K
M = 12 + 4 = 16 gm
1.3  8.3  143
V = = 310.5 m/s
16  103
9.9. (i) Find the speed of sound in a mixture of 1 mol of helium and 2 mol
of oxygen at 27°C. (ii) If the temperature is raised by 1 K from 300 K
find the percentage change in the speed of sound in the gaseous mixture
(R = 8.31 J/mol/K). (IIT 1995)
Solution:
n1 M1  n2 M 2
(i) Molecular weight of mixture Mmix =
n1  n2
1  4  2  32 68
=   103 kg/mol
1 2 3
3 5
n1CV1  n2 CV2 1 R  2  R
CVmix =  2 2  13 R
n1  n2 3 6
13 R 19 R
C Pmix = R
6 6
19 R 13 R 19
mix = 
6 6 13
 mix R.T
Vmix =
M mix
19 8.31  300  3
= 
3 68  103
= 400.9 m/s
SOUND 529

 RT
(ii) V =
M
dV 1 dT
 100 = ·  100
V 2 T
1 1
= ·  100 = 0.167%
2 300
9.10. An observer is at a distance of one meter from a point of light source
whose power output is 1 KW. Calculate the magnitude of electric and
magnetic fields assuming that the source is monochromatic, it radiates
uniformly in all directions and that at the point of observation it behaves

like a travelling plane wave 0 = 10–7 H/m and C = 3 × 108 m/s..
4
Solution:
P 103 103
I=   W/m2
4 r 2 4   12 4 
In case of electromagnetic waves
1 E
I= EB and =C
0 B
E E
I= 
0 C
E = I  0C
On putting the values we have
103
E = · 4   107  3  108  100 3 = 173 V/m
4
E 100 3 1
and B =    106 = 5.77 × 10–7 W/m2
C 3  108 3
9.11. A transverse wave is travelling along a string from left to right.
Fig. 9.2 represents the shape of the string (snap shot) at a given instant. At
this instant (a) which points have an upward velocity? (b) which points
will have downward velocity? (c) which points have zero velocity?
(d) which points have maximum magnitude of velocity? (IIT 1970)
Solution:
vParticle = – v × slope of the curve
(a) For upward velocity vParticle will be
positive. This is possible when the
slope is negative. For point D, E & F
the slope is negative.
Fig. 9.2
530 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

(b) For downward velocity vParticle will be negative. This is possible

when the slope is positive. For points A, B & H the slope is positive.
(c) For zero velocity slope must be zero. For points C and G the slope
is zero.
(d) For maximum velocity slope must be maximum. For points A & E
the slope is maximum.
9.12. The amplitude of a wave disturbance propagating in the positive x
direction is given by
1 1
y= 2 at t = 0 and y = at t = 2 sec
1 x 1   x  12 
 
where x and y are in m. The shape of the wave disturbance does not change
during the propagation. What is the velocity of the wave. (IIT 1990)
Solution: Fig. 9.3 shows a wave pulse whose shape does not change during
propagation. The pulse is represented by
a
y=
b   x  vt 
2

where a & b are constants.

Comparing the above equation with
the problem equation we get
 x  vt  = (x – 1) 2 at t = 2 sec
2

vt = 1 Fig. 9.3
1
v = = 0.5 m/sec
2
9.13. A wave pulse at t = 0 is described by the equation
4
y 2
x 2
Assuming that the pulse is moving towards the positive side of x axis with
a velocity of 1 m/sec. write the equation of the pulse as a function of time.
Solution: For the motion of the pulse along positive x axis replace x by
4
x – vt. On putting v = 1 m/sec the required function is y 
  2
2
x  t
9.14. The mean kinetic energy of translational motion of the molecules of
one kilo mole of nitrogen is 3.4 × 106 J. Find the velocity of sound in nitrogen
under these conditions.
Solution:
1
MC 2 = 3.4 × 106
2
SOUND 531

2  3.4  106 3P
C= 
28 d
P 1.4  6.8  106
Vs =  336.6 m/sec
d 3  28
9.15. A whistle emits a note of frequency 1000 Hz in hydrogen gas, but in
an unknown gas it emits a sound of frequency 225 Hz. Calculate the
molecular weight of the unknown gas.
Solution:
n1 M2
=
n2 M1
M1
n2 = n1
M2
2
225 = 1000
M2
1000
M2 = 2
225
2
 1000 
M2 =   ·2
 225 
= 39.5
9.16. Let us assume that the temperature of the air varies with height
linearly from the value T1 = 300 K at y1 = 0 to T2 = 250 K at y2 = 10 km. Find
the time t needed for a sound wave produced at the height y2 to reach to the
earth’s surface. Velocity of sound at 0°C = 330 m/sec.
Solution:
3 R ·T
= velocity of sound
M
3 R  273
= 330
M
3R 330
 = = 20
M 273
The variation of temperature with height is given by
T1  T2
T = T1 – ·y
y2
532 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

On differentiation we have
T1  T2  dy
1 =  ·
y2 dT
3 RT dy dT
v =  ·
M dT dt
y2 dT
20 T =  ·
T1  T2 dt
20 T1  T2  0 T2 dT

y2  t
dt =  T1
T

20 T2  T1  T2  T1
·t =
y2 1
2
y2
or t=
10  T2  T1 
10  1000
=
10 17.52  15.81
1000
= = 30 sec
33.13
9.17. If in air a plane wave of frequency 250 Hz and amplitude 10–3 mm is
produced, calculate the radiated energy/volume and rate of transmission
of energy across unit area of the wave front. Velocity of sound = 330 m/sec
and density of air  = 1.29 kg/m3.
Solution:
The energy density E = total energy per unit volume = 22a2n2
On putting the values
E = 2 × 3.142 × (10–6)2 × 2502 × 1.29
= 1.59 × 10–6 J/m3
The rate of transmission of energy across unit area of the wave front
= 2 2 a2 n2  v = Ev
= 1.59 × 10–6 × 330
= 5.247 × 10–4 Jm–2 sec–1
9.18. Find the pressure due to plane progressive sound waves in air at a
point where the particle velocity is 1 mm/sec in the forward direction.
Velocity of sound = 330 m/sec. Atmospheric pressure p0 = 75 cm of
mercury, rair = 1.4.
SOUND 533
Solution:
dy
p =–E
dx
E dy dy
= · ; V = velocity of sound and = particle velocity
V dt dt
 p0 dy
= ·
V dt
On putting the values we have
1.4  0.75  13.6  103  9.8  103
p=
330
= 0.424 N/m2
9.19. A stationary wave in a rod is represented by the equation
y = 0.01 sin 13x sin 200t
Calculate the maximum particle velocity and tensile stress at the point
x = 4 cm. Young’s modulus of the material of the rod = 1011N/m2.
Solution:
dy
Velocity = = 0.01 × 200 sin 13x cos 200t
dt
Maximum velocity = 0.01 × 200 sin 13x
Now 13x = 13 × 0.04 = 0.52 rad  30°
1
Sin 30 =
2
1
Maximum velocity = 0.01 × 200 × = 1 m/sec..
2
dy
Tensile stress = Y = 1011 × 0.01 × 13 cos (13x) sin (200t)
dx
Maximum tensile stress = 1011 × 0.01 × 13 cos 13x
3
= 13 × 109 ×
2
= 11.26 × 109 N/m2
9.20. The equation of motion of a progressive wave is represented as y =
50 cos (1200 t – 6.28 x), where y is in micrometres t in seconds and x in
metres. Find (i) the ratio of the amplitude and the wavelength, (ii) the ratio
of velocity amplitude to the wave propagation velocity, and (iii) the
oscillation amplitude of relative deformation of the medium and its
relation to the velocity amplitude of particles.
534 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution:
(i) On comparing the given wave equation with the standard wave
equation
y = a cos (t – kx), we have
2
a = 50 × 10–6, = k = 6.28

 = 1 m
a 50  106
 = = 50 × 10–6
 1
(ii) vmax =  a = 1200 × 50 × 10–6 = 6 × 10–2 m/s
vmax  a
 = k · a = 50 × 10–6 × 6.28 = 314 × 10–6
v /k
(iii) On differentiating the given equation, we have
 y 
   a
  t max
We know that
 y  y    t    y / t max a 
    ·   = ak = 314 × 10–6
  x max   t max   x  v / k
9.21. In the case of loud sound a normal ear can bear a maximum pressure
variation of nearly 25 N/m2. Calculate the maximum displacement for a
sound wave of frequency 1500 c/s in air. Atmospheric pressure = 105 N/m2.
Density of air = 1.293 kg/m3. Velocity of sound in air = 330 m/s.
Solution:
The amplitude P is given by the relation
P = kv 2ym
P P 2  2 n
 ym   ;k  
k v 2 2  n  v
· v 2

v
P
=
2  n v
On substituting the values of the various terms, we have
25
ym = = 0.62 × 10–5 m
2  3.14  1500  1.293  330
9.22. A source of sound of frequency 500 c/s and an intensity of 1.5 µW/m2
is propagating waves in air. Calculate the amplitude of air vibrations.
Velocity of sound = 330 m/s, density of air 1.293 kg/m3.
SOUND 535
Solution:
Intensity I = 22a2n2v
I
a =
2  2  n 2v
On putting the various values, we have
1.5  106
a=
2  3.142  1.293  5002  330
= 2.670 × 10–8 m
9.23. Standing waves are formed after reflection from a less denser medium
of a wave of wavelength 16 cm. Calculate the position of nodes and
antinodes.
Solution: Antinode will be formed at l = 0, /2, , 3/2 etc.
Node will be formed at l = /4, 3/4, 5/4 etc.
Taking  = 16 cm
Antinodes will be obtained at l = 0, 8, 16, 24 cm etc.
Nodes will be obtained at l = 4, 12, 20 cm etc.
9.24. A train of sound waves is propagated along a wide pipe and it is
reflected from an open end. If the amplitude of the wave is 0.002 cm, the
frequency 1000 Hz and wavelength 0.4 m find the amplitude of vibration
at a point 10 cm from the open end.
Solution: The equation for the incident and reflected waves are
represented as
2 2
y1 = a sin (vt – x) and y2 = a sin (vt + x)
 
The superposition of the two waves yields
2x 2 vt
y = 2 a cos · sin
 
2x
Amplitude = 2 a cos

On putting  = 0.4 and x = 0.1 m
Amplitude = 0
d2y d2 y
9.25. A stationary wave given by equation 2
 11.56  104 is
dt dt 2
established in L = 1.7 m long pipe filled with a gas and closed at both the
ends. Calculate the loop length of the wave formed and permissible
frequencies.
536 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution: Let l be the length of a loop and n be the number of loops then
nl = 1.7
1.7
or l = m
n
Velocity v = 11.56  104 = 340 m/sec
340
N = frequency = = 100
2  1.7
The possible frequencies are 100, 200, 300 etc.
9.26. A wave yi = Ai sin (t – k1 x) is travelling from a dense to a rare
medium. The interface of the two mediums lies at x = 0. At the boundary
the wave is partly reflected and partly transmitted. Assuming the incidence
to be a normal one find the amplitude of the reflected and transmitted
waves.
Solution: Let v1 be the velocity of the wave in the dense medium. The
displacement of the incident wave is given by
 x
yi = Ai sin   t  
 v1 
The displacement of the reflected and transmitted wave is given by
 x
yr = Ar sin   t  
 v1 
 x
yt = At sin   t   ; v2 = velocity in rare medium.
 v 2 

At x = 0, yi + yr = yt and Ai + Ar = At
dyi dyr dyt
Now  
dx dx dx
A A A
 i cos t  r cos t   t cos t
v1 v1 v2
 v1 
or Ai – Ar =   At
 v2 
On solving
v2  v1 2v2
Ar = Ai and At = Ai
v1  v2 v1  v2
9.27. Fundamental vibrations are excited in a string of mass m fixed at
both the ends using a source of angular velocity  and having a maximum
displacement amplitude amax. Find (i) the maximum kinetic energy of the
string, and (ii) the mean kinetic energy of the string averaged over one
oscillation period.
SOUND 537
Solution:
(i) Let l be the length of the string. Mass per unit length = m/l.
Let us consider the stationary waves to be represented by the
equation
 2 
y = A sin  · x  cos t
  
Kinetic energy of an element of length dx
2 2
1m  dy  m   2  
= · dx      A  sin  x  sin t  dx
2 l  dt  2 l     
m 2 2  2x 
= A  sin 2   sin t · dx
2

2l   
1m 2 2  /2  2x 
Total kinetic energy = A  · sin2 t  sin2   dx
2 l 0
  
  4 x  
1m 2 2 1  cos    
 /2    dx
=
2 l
A  · sin 2 t  0

 2 
 
1m 2 2
= · A   sin2 t
8 l
Now A = amax,  = 2l and sin2 t = 1. On substituting these values,
1m 2
total kinetic energy = · amax 2 · 2l
8 l
1 2
= m · amax 2
4
and will be at the antinode.
1 1 1
(ii) Mean kinetic energy of string =  m 2 amax  m 2 amax
2 2

2 4 8
9.28. The vibrations of a string of length 60 cm fixed at both ends are
represented by the equation
 x 
y = 4 sin   cos (96 t)
 15 
where x and y are in cm and t in seconds.
(i) What is the maximum displacement of a point at x = 5 cm?
(ii) Where are the nodes located along the strings?
(iii) What is the velocity of the particle at x = 7.5 cm at t = 0.25 s?
(iv) Write down the equations of the component waves whose
superposition gives the above equation. (IIT 1985)
538 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution:
 5  4 3
(i) ymax = 4 sin   = 4 sin 60 = = 3.464 cm
 15  2
 x 
(ii) At nodes sin   must be zero. This is possible when
 15 
x
= 0, , 2, 3.
15
15 15 15
x =  0,  ,  2,
  
x = 0, 15, 30, 45 and 60 cm
 x 
(iii) y = 4 sin   cos (96 t)
 15 
dy  x 
Velocity = = – 4 × 96 sin   sin (96t)
dt  15 
 x   1
= – 4 × 96 sin   7.5  sin  96   
 15   4
= – 4 × 96 × 1 × sin (24) = 0
 x 
(iv) The equation y = 4 sin   cos (96t) can be represented as
 15 
y = 2a sin  cos 
x
where a = 2 cm,  = ,  = 96t
15
Now 2a sin  cos  = a [sin ( + ) + sin ( – )]
or y = y1 + y2
 x 
 y1 = 2 sin   96 t  represents one wave, and
 15 
  x 
 y2 = 2 sin   96 t  the other wave.
 15 
9.29. A standing wave y = a sin kx cos t is maintained in a homogeneous
rod with cross-sectional area A and density . Find the total mechanical
energy confined between the sections corresponding to the adjacent
displacement nodes.
Solution:
 2 
y = a sin  x  cos t
  
Let m be the mass per unit length of the rod.
2
1  dy 
Kinetic energy in element of length dx = mdx  
2  dt 
SOUND 539
2
1   2  
= A ·    a  sin  x  sin t  dx
2     
1 2  2x 
= A  · a  sin   sin t · dx
2 2 2

2   
1  /2 1  cos  4 x /   
Total kinetic energy = A  a 2 2 sin 2 t    dx
2 0 2
1 
= A  a 2 2 · · sin 2 t
2 4
 2
= A  a  sin 2 t ; k 
2 2

4k 
At the antinode, sin2 t = 1

 Kinetic energy = A  a 2 2
4k
2
1  dy 
Potential energy in the element dx = T   dx
2  dx 
where T is the tension = mv 2
2
1 2  d   2 n  
 PE = mv  a sin  · x  cos t   dx
2  dx   v  
1 4  2n 2  2 n x 
mv 2 a 2 · cos2   cos t · dx
2
= 2
2 v  v 
1  2 n x 
= A  a 2 2 · cos2   cos t · dx
2

2  v 
1 1  cos  4 n x /v  
 /2 
Total potential energy = A  a 2 2 cos2 t  0 dx
2 2
1
= A  a 2 2  cos2 t
8
 
= · A  a 2 2 cos2 t ; k 
4k 
At nodes, cos2 t = 1.

Potential energy = · A  a 2 2
4k
At nodes,
Kinetic energy = 0,

PE = · A  a 2 2
4k
540 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS


Total mechanical energy = A  a 2 2
4k
At antinodes

Kinetic energy = A  a 2 2
4k
PE = 0

Total mechanical energy = · A  a 2 2
4k
Therefore,

Total mechanical energy = · A  a 2 2
4k
9.30. A rod of length l = 100 cm is fixed at its midpoint. Find the harmonic
oscillations of the rod lying in the frequency range of 10 to 30 kHz. Young’s
modulus of the material of the rod 13 × 1010 N/m2 and density of the rod
8.9 × 103 kg/m3.
Solution: In this case longitudinal stationary waves are formed with node
at middle point and antinode at its ends.
The fundamental frequency will be obtained when l = /2 or  = 2l.
v = 1
v 1 E
 1 = 
2l 2l d
2l
The next frequency will be obtained when l = 3/2 or  =
3
3v 3 E
3 = 
2 l 2l d
The vibrations may be represented by the following general equation.
 2n  1E
n =
2l d
where n = 0, 1, 2, 3, . . .
E
Now = 3.821 × 103
d
3.82
 n = (2n + 1) kHz
2l
There are five oscillations with frequencies 13.37, 17.19, 20.01, 24.83
and 28.65 kHz.
9.31. Find the ratio of the fundamental frequencies of two similar strings
one of which is stretched by x1 = 1.0% and the other by x2 = 2.0%. In each
case the tension produced is proportional to the elongation.
SOUND 541

1 T
Solution: The fundamental frequency n = where l is the length of
2l m
the string, T is the tension applied and m is the mass per unit length of
the string.
On stretching the string by x1 its length becomes l (1 + x1), tension
m
becomes T = kl x1 and mass per unit length becomes where m is
1  x1 
the mass of unit length of the unstretched string.
1 kl x1 1  x1 
Now n1 = ·
2 l 1  x1  m
Similarly on stretching the string by x2, we have
1 kl x2 1  x2 
n2 = ·
2 l 1  x2  m

n2 x2 1  x1 
 =
n1 x1 1  x2 
On substituting the values of x1 and x2, we have
n2  2/100   101/100 202 101
    1.407
n1 1/100   102/100  102 51

9.32. A tuning fork is in unison with a sonometer wire of length 100 cm.
When the suspended weight causing tension in the wire is dipped in water
then the same tuning fork is in unison with 93.4 cm length of the wire.
Find the relative density of the material of the weight suspended.
Solution: Let n be the frequency of a sonometer wire of length l1 when a
tension Mg is applied. Then,
1 Mg
n=
2 l1 m
On dipping the suspended mass in water, we have the same frequency,
but with length l2 and tension M'g, where M'g is the weight of the mass
suspended in water, i.e.,
1 M g
n=
2 l2 m
On dividing the two, we have
M l2
1= ·
M  l1
542 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

M l2
or = 22
M l1
M  M l2  l2
or = 1 2 2
M l1
M l2
or = 2 1 2
M  M l1  l2
2
Mg l
or = 2 1 2
 M  M   g l1  l2
weight in air l2
Relative density d =  2 1 2
loss in weight in water l1  l2
1002 1002
=   7.834
1002  93.42 193.4  6.6
9.33. A metallic ball is suspended in order to provide tension in a
sonometer wire. A tunng fork resonates with a 15 cm length of the wire.
When the ball is dipped in liquid and then in water, the tuning fork
resonates with 12 and 10 cm lengths of the wire respectively. Find the
relative density of the liquid.
Solution: Let n be the frequency of sonometer wire of length l1 when a
tension Mg is applied, i.e.,
1 Mg
n
2 l1 m
On dipping the mass in the liquid and in water, we get the same
frequency but with different lengths, and different tensions, i.e.,
1 M1 g
n ·
2 l2 m
1 M2 g
and n  ·
2 l3 m
where l2 and l3 are the lengths of wire in liquid and water and M1g and M2g
are the weights of the ball in the liquid and water respectively.
On solving the above equations, we get
M  M1 l12  l22

M l12
M  M 2 l12  l32
and 
M l12
SOUND 543

M  M1 l12  l22
or 
M  M 2 l12  l32
loss in weight in liquid
Relative density of liquid =
loss in weight in water
 M  M1  g l12  l22
= 
 M  M2  g l12  l32
152  122 27  3
= 
152  102 25  5
= 0.648
9.34. One end of a steel wire (density 8000 kg/m3 and Y = 2 × 1011 N/m2) is
fixed on a rigid base. The other end is wound over a cylindrical peg of
radius 0.3 cm. There is no tension in the wire when the distance between
the support and peg is 60 cm. Calculate the fundamental frequency of
the wire when the peg is turned through half the cycle.
TL
Solution: Young’s modulus of the material of the wire, Y =
Al
where, T is the tension, L the original length, A the area of cross-section,
and l the increase in length.
T Yl
Velocity of transverse wave = 
Ad Ld
1 Yl
Fundamental frequency n =
2 L Ld
On substituting the values of the various terms, we have
1 2  1011  3.14  0.3  102
n=
2  0.6 0.6  8000
= 522.08 Hz
9.35. A uniform rope of length 12 m and mass 6 kg hangs vertically from
a rigid support. A block of mass 2 kg is attached to the free end of the rope.
A transverse pulse of wavelength 0.06 m is produced at the lower end of
the rope. What is the wavelength of the pulse when it reaches the top of the
rope ? (IIT 1984)
Solution: Tension acting at lower end of the rope T1 = 2 × 9.8 N
Tension acting at upper end of the rope T2 = 8 × 9.8 N
T1 2  9.8
Speed of wave at lower end of rope v1 = 
m m
544 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

T2 8  9.8
Speed of wave at upper end of rope v2 = 
m m
Now v2 = 2v1
n · 2 = 2 · n · 1
 2 = 2 1
= 2 × 0.06
= 0.12 m
9.36. An aluminium wire of cross-sectional area 1 × 10–6 m2 is joined to a
steel wire of the same cross-sectional area. This compound wire is
stretched on a sonometer, pulled by a weight of 10 kg. The total length of
the compound wire between the two bridges is 1.5 m of which the
aluminium wire is 0.6 m and the rest is the steel wire. Transverse vibrations
are set up in the wire by using an external force of variable frequency. Find
the lowest excitation for which standing waves are formed such that the
joint in the wire is a node. What will be the total number of nodes observed
at this frequency excluding the two at the ends of the wire? The density of
aluminium is 2.6 × 103 kg/m3 and that of steel 1.04 × 104 kg/m3.
(Roorkee 1983)
Solution: Let n1 and n2 be the total number of loops in aluminium and
steel wire respectively. The frequency n is given by
n1 T n T
n=  2
2l1 m1 2l2 m2
where l1 and l2 represents the lengths of the aluminium and steel wire
respectively
n1 T n T
or  2
2l1 Ad1 2l2 Ad2
where d1 and d2 represents the densities of aluminium and steel wire
respectively,
n1 l1 d1
or 
n2 l2 d2
On substituting the values of l1, l2, d1 and d2, we have

n1 0.6 2.6  103 1

 
n2 0.9 1.04  104 3

Thus the aluminium wire will have one loop and the steel wire three
loops. On the total length of 1.5 m there are five nodes. Excluding the
nodes at the two ends, the number of nodes is 3.
SOUND 545

1 10  9.8
The lowest frequency, n =
2  0.6 106  2.6  103
100 4.9
= = 161.8 Hz
1.2 1.3
9.37. A wire with mass per unit length 5 g/m is stretched between two rigid
supports with a tension 4.5 N. It resonates at the frequency 420 Hz. If the
next resonance occurs at 490 Hz find the length of the wire.
Solution: In case of the vibration of a string, both even and odd harmonics
are obtained. That is, frequencies are n, 2n, 3n, 4n, etc. The difference
between the two frequencies gives rise to the fundamental frequency.
In the present case, n = 490 – 420 = 70 Hz
1 T
n=
2L m
1 T 1 4.5 3
L   3
 m
2 n m 2  70 5  10 14

9.38. Two sonometer wires have fundamental frequencies of 500

vibrations per second when kept under the same tension. What fractional
increase in the tension of one wire would cause an occurrence of 5 beats
per second when both wires vibrate together? (Roorkee 1985)
Solution: The fundamental frequency of the sonometer wire is given by
1 T
n=
2l m
1 T
Now 500 =
2l m
1 T
and 505 =
2l m
where T' is the new tension. Now on dividing the two, we have
505 T

500 T
5052 T 
or 
5002 T
T   T  T 5052  5002 1005  5
or     0.0201
T T 5002 5002
546 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

9.39. The displacement of the medium in a sound wave is given by the

equation
Y = A cos (ax + bt)
where A, a and b are positive constants. The wave is reflected by an obstacle
situated at x = 0. The intensity of the reflected wave is 0.64 times that of
the incident wave (a) What is the wavelength and frequency of the incident
wave ? (b) Write the equation for the reflected wave. (c) In the resultant
wave formed after reflection, find the maximum and minimum values of
the particle speed in the medium. (d) Express the resultant wave as a
superposition of a standing wave and a travelling wave. What are the
positions of the anti nodes of the standing wave ? What is the direction of
propagation of the travelling wave? (IIT 1991)
Solution:
(a) Let the equation of the travelling wave
Y = A sin (t + kx +)
On comparing it with the equation given above

 = b, k = a and  =
2
 b 2 2
f=  ,= 
2 2 k a
(b) Ir = 0.64 I0
Ir
 = 0.64
I0
Ar2
 = 0.64
A2
 Ar = 0.8 A
The equation of reflected wave is given by
Y2 = 0.8A cos (bt – ax + ) = – 0.8A cos (bt – ax)
(c) Velocity of the particle is given by
v =  A2  Y 2
The particle velocity is maximum when amplitude is maximum
i.e. at antinode and Y is min and is equal to 0
VAN max   Amax  b  A  0.8 A   1.8 bA
Particle velocity is min when Y = A
Vmin = O
A = Amin = A1 – A2 and so VN min = 0.2bA
SOUND 547
(d) y = 0.8A [cos (bt + ax) – cos (bt – ax) + 0.2A cos (bt + ax)
= – 1.6 A sin ax sin bt + 0.2A cos (bt + ax)
y = yStanding + yProgressive
yStanding = – 1.6A sin ax sin bt
yPregressive = 0.2A cos (bt + ax)
Now sin ax = ± 1
 3 5
ax = , ,
2 2 2
 3 5
or x = , ,
2a 2a 2a
In the equation of progressive wave x is +ve the wave is travelling
along negative x axis i.e., in the direction of incident wave.
9.40. The following equations represent transverse waves: Z1 = A cos
(kx – t), Z2 = A cos (kx + t), Z3 = A cos (ky – t). Identify the combinations
of the waves which will produce, (a) standing waves, (b) a wave travelling
in the direction making an angle of 45° with positive X and Y axes. In each
cases, find the positions at which the resultant intensity is always zero.
(IIT 1987)
Solution:
(a) The first two waves are travelling along x axis in opposite directions
and their superposition give rise to standing waves.
Z = Z1 + Z2 = A cos (kx – t)+ A cos (kx + t)= 2A cos kx cos t
The resultant intensity  cos2 kx. For zero intensity
cos2 kx = 0

 kx = (2n + 1) where n = 0, 1, 2, . . .
2
 3  5
x = , , ...
4 4 4
(b) The third wave is travelling along Y axis, combination of 1 and 3
will give
Z = Z1 + Z3 = A cos (kx – t) + A cos (ky – t)
 kx  ky   kx  ky 
= 2a cos   cos   t 
 2   2 
This is the equation of a progressive wave of amplitude 2A cos
 kx  ky 
  travelling along the direction having direction cosines
 2 
l, m and n.
548 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

kx  ky
 K lx  my  nz ; K = wave-vector of the resultant wave.
2
k k
Kl = , Km = and Kn = 0
2 2
l 2  m2  n2  1
k2 k2
We have  1
4K 2 4 K 2
k
K=
2
k 1
l cos  =  = 45°
2k 2 2
k 1
m cos  =   = 45°
2k 2 2

n = cos  = 0  =
2
Thus this combination will give a progressive wave in the direction
making 45° with the positive X and Y axis
kx  ky
For zero intensity cos  0
2
kx  ky 
   2n  1
2 2

or y = x ± (2n + 1)
k
9.41. A metallic rod of length 1 m is rigidly clamped at its mid-point.
Longitudinal stationary waves are set up in the rod in such a way that there
are two nodes on either side of the mid-point. The amplitude of an
antinode is 2 × 10–6 m. Write the equation of motion at a point 2 cm from the
mid-point and those of constituent waves in the rod (Y = 2 × 1011 N/m2 and
 = 8 × 103 kg/m3). (IIT 1994)
Solution:
 
4   2  = L (see Fig. 9.4)
2 4

Fig. 9.4

2
= L = 0.4 m
5
SOUND 549

Y 2  1011
Velocity V =  = 5000 m/s
 8  103
V 5000
frequency f =  = 12500 Hz
 0.4
Let the incident and reflected wave along the rod be Y1 = A sin
(t – kx) and Y2 = A sin (t + kx + )
Resultant wave will be
Y = Y1 + Y2 = A [sin (t – kx) + sin (t + kx + )]
   
= 2 A cos  kx   sin  t  
 2   2
 
At x = 0 we have antinode and cos  k  0   = 1 therefore  = 0
 2
Amax = 2A = 2 × 10–6 m (given)
 Y = 2 × 10–6 cos kx sin t
Y = 2 × 10–6 cos 5 x sin 25000t
For a point 2 cm from the mid-point of the rod we have x = 0.5 ± 0.02
 y = 2 × 10–6 cos 5 (0.5 ± 0.02) sin 25000t
The resultant wave y = 2 × 10–6 cos 5 x sin 25000t can be represented
as
y = 10 –6 [sin (5x + 25000t) – sin (5x – 25000t)]
= [10–6 sin (5x + 25000t) + 10–6 sin (25000t – 5x)]
The required constitutent waves are
Y1 = 10–6 sin [25000t + 5x] and Y2 = 10–6 sin [25000t – 5x]
9.42. Stationary waves are produced in a 120 cm long string. The amplitude
for points separated by distance of 15 cm is 3.5 mm. Find
(i) the overtone for these oscillations (ii) the maximum displacement
amplitude.
Solution:
(i) In view of figure 9.5 we have
2x1 = 15
x1 = 7.5 cm
Fig. 9.5
Further x2 – x1 = 15 cm
 x2 = (15 + x1) cm
2 2
y = 2a sin · x1 = 2 a sin (15 + x1)
 
550 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

2 2
or · x1 =  – (15 + x1)
 

x1 = – 15 – x1
2

2x1 + 15 =
2
 = 60 cm
The string will have four loops hence it will oscillate with third
overtone.
2
(ii) 3.5 = 2a sin × 7.5
60

= 2a sin
4
2a
=
2
 2a = 3.5 2 = 4.95 mm
9.43. A uniform rope of mass 0.1 kg and length 2.45 m hangs from the
ceiling (a) Find the speed of transverse wave in the rope at a point 0.5 m
distance from the lower end. (b) Calculate the time taken by a transverse
wave to travel the full length of the rope. (Roorkee 1991)
Solution:
(a) Tension at a point h metre high from the lower end of the rope =
mgh where m is mass per unit length.
T mh g
Speed of the transverse wave V =   gh
m m
On putting the values we have
V= 9.8  0.5 = 2.21 m/s
(b) At the lower end of the rope tension is zero hence the speed of the
transverse wave is zero
The speed of transverse wave at the upper end = gl
gl
Acceleration =
t
1 gl 2
l= · ·t
2 t
l 2.45
t  2  2  1 sec.
g 9.8
SOUND 551
9.44. A point source S producing spherical wave is placed on a straight
line between two points P and Q as shown in the Fig. 9.6. The oscillation
amplitudes of the particles of the medium at these points are a1 and a2
 
respectively. Assuming the radius vector for the two points as r1 and r2
find the radius vector of the source.
Solution: Let PS = d1 and SQ = d2
I1 Intensity at P d22
 
I 2 Intensity at Q d12
a12 d22

a22 d12
or a1d1 = a2d2 = k (constant)
k k Fig. 9.6
hence d1 = and d2 =
a1 a2
Let i be the unit vector along PQ
 k  k
PS = i and SQ  i
d1 d2
  
Now OP  PS  OS
k
r1  i  r
a1
or a1r1 + ik = a1r
Similarly a2r2 – ik = a2r
On adding the two equation we have
(a1 + a2) r = a1r1 + a2r2
a1r1  a2r2
r =
a1  a2
9.45. Two coherent sources of sound of intensity 50 watt/m2 and frequency
500 Hz are at distances x1 = 0.14 m and x2 = 0.25 m from a point. Assuming
the velocity of sound in the medium as 330 m/s find the resultant intensity
at that point.
Solution:
Path diff = x2 – x1
2
Phase diff = ·  x2  x1 

2
Resultant intensity I = I0 + I0 + 2 I 02 cos ·  x2  x1 

552 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

2  ·n
= 2 I 0  2 I 0 cos  x2  x1 
v
n
= 4 I 0 cos
2
 x2  x1 
v
On substituting the values we have
  500
I = 4  50  cos2 ·  0.11
330
·500
= 200 · cos2 ·
3000

= 200 cos2
6
3
= 200   150 watt/m2
4
9.46. A plane elastic wave  = a cos (t – kx) propogates in a stationary
frame of reference S. Find the equation of the wave in the frame of
reference S' moving with a velocity V along x axis relative to S.
Solution: The coordinate of frame of reference S' is given by
x' = x – Vt
 x = (x' + Vt)
 = a cos [t – Kx' – KVt]
  V  
= a cos  t  1    Kx   where v =
  v  K
9.47. Two plane waves propogate in a homogenous elastic medium.
Of the two, one wave along x axis and the other along y axis: 1 = a cos
(t – kx), 2 = a cos (t – ky). Find the resultant wave motion in the xy plane
when both the waves (a) are transverse and their oscillation directions
coincide (b) are longitudinal.
Solution:
(a)  = 1 + 2
= a cos  t  kx   cos  t  ky  
ky  x  ky  kx 
= 2 a cos · cos  t  
2  2 
This is the equation of progressive wave of amplitude 2 a cos
k y  x
and travelling along a line equally inclined to x and y.
2
k 
When  y  x     2 s  1 ;   0
2 2
SOUND 553

 y = x   2 s  1 (see Fig. 9.7a)
2
k
When  y  x  = ± s,
2
amplitude is maximum
y=x±s

(b)   1i  2 j
1
t – kx = cos 1 Fig. 9.7a
a

t – ky = cos1 2
a
 
k (y – x) = cos1 1  cos1 2 =  – 
a a
cos k (y – x) = cos  cos  + sin  sin  = cos 
 = k (y – x)
1  2 2 2
·  1  12 · 1  22  cos 
a a a a
2
 12   22   1 2 
 1  2   1  2    cos   2 
 a  a   a 
12  22  2 1 2 cos   a 2 sin 2  where  = k (y – x)
This is equation of an ellipse
when  = k (y – x) = ± 2 s, s = 0, 1, 2, 3
y = x±s
12  22  2 1  2 = 0
1 = 2
This represents a st line along a
line y = x ± s 

when  = k (y – x) = ± (2s + 1)
2

y = x ± (2s + 1)
4
Now 12   22  a 2
This is equation of a circle on
the line

y = x ± (2s + 1)
4 Fig. 9.7b
554 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

when  = k (y – x) = ± (2s + 1)

 1
y = x ±  s    (see Fig. 9.7b)
 2
 1   2 
2
Now  0; 1   2

9.48. Find the nature of motion of the particles in an elastic medium in

which two plane transverse waves propogates along x and y axes
respectively. The oscillations for both the waves is along z axis. The
wavelength and amplitude of the two waves is same and equal to  and A.
The initial phase difference between them is .
Solution:
z = A sin (t – kx – ) and z = A sin (t – ky)
On comparing the two
·
y=x+
2
The maximum amplitude is equal to 2A
and is represented by heavy line (see Fig. 9.8)

For  = 0, y = x + ± n ;
2
n = 0, 1, 2, etc.
The minimum amplitude is zero and are
represented by
Fig. 9.8
  1
y=x+   n    ; n = 0, 1, 2
2  2
and are shown by dotted lines.
9.49. Two thin wires of length l1 and l2 and having mass per unit length
as m1 and m2 are joined together to form a single wire. The composite
wire is stretched between the two supports A and B as shown in Fig. 9.9.
Stationary waves are formed such that l1 length contains four loops and l2
m 4
length contains 2 loops. Taking 2 as . Find the ratio of l1 and l2.
m1 3

Fig. 9.9
Solution:
l1 T T
n·  and n · l2 
2 m1 m2
SOUND 555
On dividng the two
l1 m2

2 l2 m1
l1 4 4
 2 
l2 3 3
9.50. An aluminium wire of length l1 and a lead wire of length l2 are joined
together to form a single wire of length 2 m. A copper wire of length
l3 = l1 + l2 and the composite wire are arranged as shown in the figure 9.10.
l1
For what value of sound waves will take the same time to travel a length
l2
l3 through the two path? YAl = 7 × 1010 N/m2, Ylead = 1.6 × 1010 N/m2 ,
YCu = 13 × 1010 N/m2, Al = 2.7 × 103 kg/m3, lead = 11.3 × 103 kg/m3 and
Cu = 8.9 × 103 kg/m3.

Fig. 9.10
Solution:
70
VAl =  103 = 5.09175 × 103 m/s
2.7
16
Vlead =  103 = 1.18993 × 103 m/s
11.3
130
VCu =  103 = 3.82188 × 103 m/s
8.9
2  l2 l2 2
Now  
5.09175 1.18993 3.82188
2.37986 – 1.18993 l2 + 5.09175 l2 = 3.17060
3.90182 l2 = 0.79074
 l2 = 0.2026
l1 = 1.7974
l1
 = 8.87
l2
9.51. Stationary longitudinal waves are produced in a rod of length l.
Determine the complete harmonic series when (i) the rod is free at both
ends and not supported at any point of its length and (ii) the rod is clamped
at both the ends.
556 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution:
2
Let y1 = a sin (vt – x)(see Fig. 9.11)

be the displacement at point P.
The displacement produced at
B is given by
2
y = a sin (vt – l) Fig. 9.11

Let B be taken as origin for the reflected wave. Assuming BP = x'
towards A. The equation for the displacement of P due to reflected wave
2
y2 = a sin (vt – l – x' )

x + x' = l
2
 y2 = a sin (vt + x – 2l)

Resultant displacement
y = y1 + y2
2 2
= a sin (vt – x) + a sin (vt + x – 2l)
 
2 2
= 2 a sin (vt – l) cos (l – x)
 
(i) At each end we have antinode. The displacement is maximum at x
= 0 and x = l.
 dy 
  at x = 0 and x = l is zero
 dx 
dy 2 2
 2a · sin  l  x  sin  vt  l 
dx  
at x = 0 we have
4a  2 l 2
· sin · sin vt  l   0
  
This is possible when
2 l
= r  where r = 1, 2, 3, . . .

2 l
n· = r ; v = velocity and n = frequency
v
v 2v 3v
n1 = , n2  , n3  . . . represents the complete
2l 2l 2l
harmonics.
SOUND 557
(ii) The equation for the direct and reflected wave is given by
2
y1 = a sin vt  x 

2
y2 = – a sin vt  x  2l 

The negative sign is due to phase reversal of  on reflection,
resultant displacement at P is given by
y = y1 + y2
2 2
= a sin vt  x   a sin  vt  x  2 l 
 
2 2
= 2a cos vt  l  sin  l  x 
 
y = 0 when x = 0
2 2 l
0 = 2a cos vt  l  sin
 
This is possible when
2 l
 r  where r = 1, 2, 3 etc.

2 l · n
= r
v
rv
or n =
2l
v 2v 3v
n1 = , n2 = , n3 = etc. represents the complete
2l 2l 2l
harmonics.
9.52. Two radio stations broadcast their programmes at the same
amplitude A and at slightly different frequencies 1 and 2 respectively.
Where 2 – 1 = 103 Hz. A detector receives the signal from the two stations
simultaneously. It can detect signals of intensity > 2 A2. (a) Find the time
interval between successive maxima of the intensity of the signal received
by the detector. (b) Find the time for which the detector remains idle in
each cycle of the intensity of the signal. (IIT 1993)
Solution:
y1 = A sin 2 1t and y2 = A sin 2 2t
 2  1   1  2 
y = y1 + y2 = 2 A cos 2   t sin 2   t
 2   2 
   2   2  1 
y = A' sin 2  1  t ; A' = 2 A cos 2  2  t
 2   
558 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

I = A´2 = 4 A2 cos2  (2 – 1) t

I will be maximum when cos  (2 – 1) t = ± 1
or  (2 – 1) t = 0, , 2 etc.
1 2
or t = 0, ,
2  1 2  1
1
t = time between two consecutive maxima = = 10–3 sec
2  1
1
I = 2A2 = 4 A2 cos2  (2 – 1) t with the value of cos  (2 – 1) t = ±
2
 3 5
or  (2 – 1) t = , ,
4 4 4
1 3
or t= , etc.
4  2  1  4  2  1 
1
t' = time interval between two successive minima =
2  2  1 
= 5 × 10–4 sec
9.53. A tuning fork has a particular frequency at room temperature of
25°C. It is now put in boiling water (100°C). After taking it out of water its
frequency is lowered by 1%. Calculate the temperature coefficient of the
elastic constant. steel = 12 × 10–6/°C

Solution: The frequency of a tuning fork varies a Yl where Y is Young’ss

modulus and l is length of the prong.

Freq at 100°C Y100  l100 Y25 1  75  l25 1  75  

= 
Freq at 25°C Y25  l25 Y25  l25
99
= 1  75  1  75  
100
2
 99  1
1 + 75 =    6
 100  1  75  12  10
2
 99  1
=   
 100  1.0009
= 0.9792
75 = – 0.0208
 = – 2.77 × 10–4
9.54. Four violin strings all of the same length and material, but of
diameters in the ratio 4 : 3 : 2 : 1 are to be stretched so that each gives a note
SOUND 559
whose frequency is 3/2 times that of the preceding string. If the
stretching force of the first string is 3 kg wt, calculate the tension in the
other strings.
Solution:
n2 n3 n4 3
  
n1 n2 n3 2
1 4T
n= is an expression for the frequency..
2l  d2
For all the four strings we have
nd = k · T
In view of this
n1d1 = k T1 , n2d2 = k T2 , n3d3 = k T3 and n4d4 = k T4

n2 d2 T2
=
n1d1 T1
2
3 3
T2 =    · T1
2 4
81
= 3
64
= 3.797 Kg wt
2
 n3 d3 
T3 =   · T1
 n1d1 
2
9 1
=    3
4 2
81  3
=
64
= 3.797 kg wt
2
n d 
T4 =  4 4  · T1
 n1d1 
2
 27 1 
=    3
 8 4
= 2.136 Kg wt
9.55. In the Melde’s experiment it has been found that the string vibrates
in 5 loops when 10 gm were placed on the pan. What mass must be placed
in the pan to make the string to vibrate in 7 loops.
560 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution: Let l be the length of the thread then


l = 5
2
2l
 =
5
T
v = = n
m
5 T
n =
2l m
5 10 g 7 M ·g
= 
2l m 2l m
5 10 = 7 M
25  10
M = = 5.1 gm
49
9.56. A metal wire of mass 9.8 gm/m is stretched with a tension of 10 kg wt
between two rigid supports one meter apart. The wire passes at its middle
point between the poles of a permanent magnet and it vibrates in resonance
when carrying an alternating current of frequency n. Calculate the
frequency of the alternating source.
Solution:

L = 1m =
2
 = 2 m
T 10  9.8
v =  100 m/sec
m 9.8  103
v 100
n =  = 50 c/s
 2
9.57. How many times the fundamental frequency of a stretched wire
changes when its length is shortened by 35% and the tension is increased
by 70%.
Solution:
1 T
n =
2l m
1 T  T
n' =
2 l  l  m
SOUND 561

1  T
1 T T
·
 
=
2l m 1  l
l
1  T
n
T

 
n' =
1  l
l
1  T
n T

 
=
n 1  l
l
On putting the values we have
n 1  0.7 1.7 1.30
   2
n 1  0.35 0.65 0.65
9.58. AB is a cylinder of length 1.0 m, fitted with a thin flexible diaphragm
C at the middle and two other thin flexible diaphragms A and B at the ends
(Fig. 9.12). The portions AC and BC contains hydrogen and oxygen
respectively. The diaphragms A and B are set into vibrations of the same
frequency. What is the minimum frequency of these vibrations for which
the diaphragm C is a node? Under the conditions of the experiment the
velocity of sound in hydrogen is 1,100 m/s and in that oxygen 300 m/s.
(IIT 1978)
Solution: The two parts AC and BC form an organ pipe each closed at one
end. For both the organ pipes, diaphragm C forms the closed end.
Let n1 and n2 be the fundamental frequencies in H2 and O2 respectively.
Then
VH 1100
n1 =  = 550 Hz
4 L 4  0.5
V 300
and n2 = O  = 150 Hz
4 L 4  0.5
n 550 11
Now 1 =  Fig. 9.12
n2 150 3
i.e., 3n1 = 11n2
Thus the common minimum frequency = 3n1 = 3 × 550 = 1,650 Hz
= 11 n2 = 11 × 150 = 1,650 Hz
9.59. A string 25 cm long and having mass of 2.5 g is under tension. A pipe
closed at one end is 40 cm long. When the string is set vibrating in its first
562 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

overtone and the air in the pipe in its fundamental frequency, 8 beats per
second are heard. It is observed that decreasing the tension in the string
decreases the beats frequency. If the speed of sound in air is 320 m/sec,
find the tension in the string. (IIT 1982)
Solution: Let ns bet the first overtone of the string and np the fundamental
frequency of the organ pipe closed at one end.
Now, either
ns – np = 8
or np – ns = 8
But in this case the number of beats decreases on decreasing the
tension of the string. Thus
ns – np = 8
V 320
Now np =  = 200 Hz
4 L 4  0.4
 ns = 208 Hz
1 T
ns = 208 = (ns = 2 × fundamental frequency)
l m
2.5  103
m = = 10–2 kg/m
25  102
T = 2082 × l 2 × m
= 2082 × (0.25)2 × 10–2
= 27.05 N
9.60. A system consisting of a pipe with a piston and a membrane at one
of its ends resonates at two positions of the piston separated by a distance
l = 16.5 cm at a frequency of 1,000 Hz. Find the velocity of sound.
Solution: In this case the displacement of the piston is equal to /2.

Therefore = 16.5 cm or  = 33 cm = 0.33 m
2
Now V = n  = 1,000 × 0.33 = 330 m/s
9.61. At room temperature one performs an experiment with resonance
tube. The first and the second resonance are observed at lengths l1 = 20.1
and l2 = 62.4 cm, of air column, respectively. Find the length of air column
at the third resonance.
Solution: For the first and second resonance at the two lengths l1 and l2, we
have

l1 + e = ; here e is the end correction
4
SOUND 563
3
and l2 + e =
4
Now l2 + e = 3 (l1 + e)
l2  3l1
or e =
2
On substituting the values of l1 and l2, we have
62.4  60.3 2.1
e=  = 1.05 cm
2 2

Therefore = 20.1 + 1.05 = 21.15 cm
4
For the third resonance, we have
5
l3 + e = = 5 × 21.15 = 105.75
4
 l3 = 105.75 – 1.05 = 104.7 cm
9.62. When a tuning fork and an air column having temperature equal to
51°C are sounded together, four beats are observed. On decreasing the
temperature of the air column the number of beats decreases. When the
temperature of the air column is 16°C only one beat is observed. Find the
frequency of the tuning fork.
Solution: At 51°C, we have
n51 – n = 4
where n51 and n represents frequency of the air column and tuning
fork respectively. Similarly at 16°C, we have
n16 – n = 1
n51 n  4
Therefore 
n16 n  1
n51 V51 273  51 324
Now    ; V and V16 represent the velocity
n16 V16 273  16 289 51
of sound at 51 and 16°C respectively.
324 n  4
Therefore 
289 n  1
n4
or = 1.059
n 1
or n + 4 = 1.059 n + 1.059
or 0.059 n = 2.941
2.941
or n= = 49.83 Hz
0.059
564 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

9.63. How many times more intense is a 90 db sound than a 40 db sound.

Solution:
I2
L2 – L1 = 10 log
I1
I
90 – 40 = 10 log 2
I1
I2
50 = log
I1
I
 2 = 105
I1
9.64. The power of sound from the speaker of a radio is 20 mW. By turning
the knob of the volume control the power of sound is increased to
400 mW. What is the power increase in db as compared to original power.
Solution:
I2 P 400
L2 – L1 = L = 10 log = 10 log 2 = 10 log
I1 P1 20
= 10 log 20
= 10 [1.3010] = 13.0 db
9.65. A dog barking delivers about 1 mW of power. If this power is
uniformly distributed over a hemispherical area, what is the sound level
at a distance of 5 m? What would the sound level be if instead of 1 dog,
5 dogs start barking at the same time each delivers 1 mW of power?
Solution:
P 103 w
I=   6.37 2
area 2   52
m
I 6.37  106
L = 10 log  10 log
I0 1012
= 10 [log (6.37) + 6 log 10]
= 10 [0.8 + 6]
= 68 db
I2 5I
L2 – L1 = 10 log  10 log 1
I1 I1
L2 – L1 = 10 log 5
L2 = 68 + 10 × 0.7 = 75 db
9.66. Find the level of the sound waves propagating in air with a velocity
of V = 330 m/s. Atmospheric pressure 105 N/m2 and density of air
1.29 kg/m3.
SOUND 565
Solution:
P2 1010
I=  = 1.17 × 107 W/m2
2 V 2  1.29  330
I 107
L = 10 log  10 log 2 = 190 db
I0 10
9.67. A spherical sound wave propagates in air from an isotropic source.
At a distance of r0 = 100 m from the source the sound level is L0 = 100 db.
Assuming that the sound is not absorbed by the air find the loudness level
L at a distance of (a) 2 km (b) 4 km.
Solution:
I P
SL = 10 log  10 log
I0 4  r02 I 0
P P
=  1010
4 r0 I 0
2
4  I 0  104
P
 = 1014
4  I0
P
(a) L1 = 10 log
4  I 0  4  106
1014
= 10 log  10 log 0.25  108
4  106
= 10 [1.39 + 6] = 74 db
1014
(b) L2 = 10 log  10 log 6.25  106 
16  106
= 10 [6 + 0.7959]
= 67.96
= 68 db
9.68. A window whose area is 3 m2 opens on a street. The sound level at
the window due to the street noise is 60 db. Calculate the acoustic power
which enters the window. If a glass sheet is fitted at the window then
calculate the energy collected by the sheet in a period of 12 hrs.
Solution:
I
SL = 10 log = 60 given
I0
I
 = 106
I0
I = 106 × 10–12 = 10–6 W/m2
566 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Power = I · A = 10–6 × 3 = 3 µw
Energy E = P × time = 3 × 10–6 × 12 × 60 × 60
= 0.1296 J
9.69. A plane sound wave propagates along the x axis in air. The sound
absorption coefficient  = 2.07 × 10–3/m. In the plane x = 0 the loudness
level is L0 = 100 db. Calculate the loudness at x = 2 km.
Solution:
3 I 0
I = I 0 e  2.07  10  2  10  4.14
3

e
I 0
=  0.0159 I 0
2.7184.14

Further log I 0  1010 given
I0
 Required sound level L = 10 log (0.0159 × 1010)
= 10 [2.2014 + 6]
= 82.014 db
9.70. An isotropic source produces a spherical sound wave with a
frequency of 3 kHz in air. At a distance of r1 = 100 m from the source the
sound loudness level is L1 = 60 db. Determine the loudness level L2 at a
distance of r 2 = 200 m and also the distance r at which the sound
stops being heard assuming the sound absorption coefficient in air to be
 = 2.42 × 10–3/m.
Solution:
3
I 0 e 2.42  10  100
I=
4   1002
 I 0 
60 = 10 log  0.242 4 
e  4  I 0  10 
I 0
 106
2.7180.242  4  I 0  104
I
 0  4   1010  2.7180.242
I0
4   1010 1
= ; 2.7180.242 =
0.7849 0.7849
At a distance of 200 m
 I 0 e  2.42  10  200 
3

SL = 10 log  
 4   4  10 · I 0 
4
SOUND 567

 I 0 1 1 
= 10 log  · · 4
 I 0 2.718
0.484
4   4  10 
 4   104  106  0.6161  1
= 10 log  ;  0.6161
 4   10 4
 4  0.7849  2.718 0.484

= 53 db
For determining r
 I  · e  2.42  10 
3
r
SL = 0 = 10 log  0 
 4 r  I 0
2

 4   1010 
= 2 2.42  103 r
 1
 4 r e  0.7849 
3
1010 = r 2 e 2.42  10 r  0.7849
The above equation holds good with the value of r = 3 km
3
r 2 e 2.42  10 r
 0.7849 = 9 × 106 e2.42 × 3 × 0.7849
= 9 × 106 × 0.7849 × 2.7187.26
log value = 6.9542 – 0.1052 + 3.1526
= 10.0016
 r = 3 km
9.71. Two sounds in a gas differ in their loudness level by L12 = 20 db. Find
the ratio of the amplitudes of the pressure oscillations for these sounds.
Solution:
  pm 1 v A1 A1 I
   1
  pm 2 v A2  A2 I2

 I1 
Further L1 = 10 log  
 I0 
 I2 
L2 = 10 log  
 I0 
I1 I
Let = 10a1 and 2  10a2 then
I0 I0
L1 = 10a1 and L2 = 10a2
10 (a1 – a2) = L1 – L2 = L12 = 20 db
 a1 – a2 = 2
568 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

a1  a2
A1 I
Now  1  10 2
A2 I2
= 10
9.72. The intensity of a sound wave 20 m away from the source is 3 nw/m2.
Find the intensity of the wave 32 m away from the source if the half
thickness for sound of this frequency is 120 m.
Solution:
2
r2  r1
I1  r2 
  ·2 L where I1 and I2 are the wave intensities at distances
I 2  r1 
r1 and r2 and L is half thickness.
On putting the values we have
2
32  20
3  109  32 
=   · 2 120
I2  20 
3  109 1
or = 1.62 · 2 10
I2
3  109
I2 =
1.62  1.072
= 1.093 × 10–9 W/m2
9.73. The loudness level of a 1000 Hz pure tone is 60 phons. How many
such tones must be sounded together in order to produce a loudness level
of twice that produced by one tone.
Solution:
I
L = 60 = 10 log
I0
nI
120 = 10 log
I0
I
12 = log n + log
I0
= log n + 6
log n = 6 or n = 106
9.74. A point isotropic source of sound is located at the axis of a ring of
radius R at a distance l. Find the mean energy flow across the area enclosed
by the ring if at the centre of the ring the intensity of sound is I0.
Solution:
P
I0 = 2 ; P = Power of the source
l
SOUND 569

P cos  I0 l3
Intensity at O' =  ; see Fig. 9.13
l 2  x 2 l 2  x 2  2
3

Flux through the area enclosed between

2  xdx · I 0 l 3
radii x & x + dx =
x  l2 
3
2 2

R xdx
Net flux =  2  I 0l 3 ·
x  l2 
3
O 2 2

 
 1 
= 2  I 0l 1 2

2
 1 R 2  Fig. 9.13
 l 
9.75. The first overtone of an open organ pipe beats with the first overtone
of a closed organ pipe with a beat frequency of 2.2 Hz. The fundamental
frequency of the closed pipe is 110 Hz. Find the lengths of the pipes.
(IIT 1997)
Solution:
V
For a closed organ pipe nC = (2r – 1)
4 LC
where LC = length of the closed pipe, r = 1, 2, . . .
rV
For open organ pipe n0 =
2 L0
where L0 = length of the open pipe, r = 1, 2, . . .
V
nC = = 110
4 LC
330
 LC =  0.75 m
4  110
3V 2V
 = 2.2
4 LC 2 L0
330  3V 
= 330  2.2;   3nC  330 
L0  3 LC 
330
L0 =  1.0067 m or 0.9937 m
330  2.2
9.76. A source of sound of frequency 256 Hz is moving rapidly towards a
wall with a velocity of 5 m/s. How many beats per second will be heard if
sound travels at a speed of 330 m/s? (IIT 1981)
570 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution: Here we have two cases, depending upon the positions of the
source and the observer: (i) When we have the arrangement “source-
observer-wall”, no beat will be observed because the apparent frequency
nv
before and after reflection is the same and is equal to . (ii) When
v  vs
arrangement is “observer-source-wall”, the apparent frequency before
reflection is
nv
n1 =
v  vs
nv
and n2 = after reflection.
v  vs
2nvvs 2 nvvs
Thus, number of beats = n2 – n1 = =
v  vs
2 2
v  vs  v  vs 
2  256  330  5
=  7.7
335  325
Alternative Solution: In this case two sounds will be heard, one directly
from the source and the other reflected from the wall. The reflected sound
can be imagined as coming from an acoustic image of the source.
n v  v0 
Now n' =
v  vs
Here v0 = vs = 5 m/s
n  335  10 
 n' =  n 1  
325  325 
n  10 256  10
 Number of beats n' – n =  = 7.9
325 325
9.77. A source of sound with a frequency n = 2000 Hz moves along a line
at right angles to the wall with a velocity vs = 0.33 m/s. Two stationary
detectors D1 and D2 are placed on the path of the source in a manner
shown in Fig. 9.14. Calculate the number of beats. The velocity of sound is
equal to v = 330 m/s.
Solution: Before reflection for detector D1
the apparent frequency is given by
nv
n1 
v  vs
similarly for detector D2 the apparent
frequency is given by
nv
n2  Fig. 9.14
v  vs
SOUND 571
After reflection the apparent frequency recorded by detector D2 is
nv
n2 
v  vs
and the apparent frequency recorded by detector D1 is
nv
n1 
v  vs
Thus D2 will not record any beat since n2  n2 whereas D1 will record
n1  n1 beats.
Thus
 1 1  2nv · v s 2 nvs
Number of beats = n1  n1  nv    2 
 v  v s v  vs  v  vs
2
v
2  2000  0.33
= = 4 Hz
330
9.78. There are two sources of sound with frequency n = 330 Hz, one
moving towards a stationary detector and the other away from it with the
same velocity vs. The detector records four beats. Find the velocity of the
source. Velocity of sound v = 330 m/s.
Solution: The source which is approaching to the stationary detector will
have an apparent frequency given by
nv
n 
v  vs
The source which is receding will have an apparent frequency given
by
nv
n 
v  vs
 1 1  2nv s
Number of beats n = n  n  nv   
 v  v s v  vs  v
n ·v
v s 
2n
On substituting the values of various terms, we have
4  330
vs =  2m/s
2  330
9.79. A stationary source of sonic oscillation sends forth monochromatic
sound. A wall approaches it with a velocity of u = 0.17 m/s. By what
percentage does the wavelength of sound change after reflection from
the wall? Velocity of sound v = 340 m/s.
572 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution: Here we have two Doppler shifts. In the first phase the wall acts
like a moving observer. The apparent frequency n´ detected by it is given
by
v u 
n   n
 v 
where n is the frequency of the source.
In the second phase the wall acts like a moving source and reflects
sound. The apparent frequency is given by
nv n v  u 
n  
v u v u
v v v  u 
Now 
   v  u 
 v  u
 
 v u
   v  u  v  u 2u
or  
 v u v u
 2u 2  0.17  100
   0.1%
 v u 340.17
9.80. A receiver and a source of sound with frequency n = 1650 Hz lies on
a straight line normal to a wall. The wall is moving away from the stationary
source with a velocity u = 0.5 m/s. Calculate the number of beats recorded
by the stationary receiver. The velocity of sound is equal to v = 330 m/s.
Solution: This is a case of two Doppler shifts. First, the wall acts like a
moving observer and detects an apparent frequency given by
v u 
n    n ; where v is the velocity of sound.
 v 
Secondly the wall acts like a moving source and reflects sound. The
apparent frequency is given by
nv  v  u 
n   n
v u v u 

v u  2 nu
Number of beats = n  n  n   n
v u  v u
On substituting the values of n, u and v we have
2  1650  0.5
Number of beats = = 5 Hz
330.5
SOUND 573
9.81. A source of sound of frequency 1000 Hz mounted on the rim of a
circular table of radius r = 33 cm and a receiver are at rest and are located
along the x axis (Fig. 9.15). With what angular velocity  should be the
table rotate about a vertical axis passing through its centre for the
receiver to record a frequency difference n = 100 Hz. Velocity of sound
v = 330 m/s.
Solution: Let S and R be the positions of the source and receiver respectively.
The velocity of the source is r . When the source follows the path ABC, it
comes towards the receiver (Fig. 9.15). The apparent frequency recorded
by the receiver is given by
nv
n1 
v r

Fig. 9.15

When the source follows path CDA, it moves away from the receiver.
The apparent frequency recorded by the receiver under this condition is
given by
nv
n2 
v r
 1 1  2 nvr 
Now n1 – n2 = n = nv    2
 v  r  v  r  v  r 
2 2

or n · v 2 – nr 22 = 2nvr

or nr 22 + 2nvr – n · v 2 = 0
2 nvr  4n2v 2r 2  4  n2r 2v 2
or = 
2  nr 2
nv n 2v 2 v2
=–   2
 nr n ·r
2 2
r

nv  
2
n 
=  1     1
 nr   n  
 
574 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

On substituting the values of the various terms, we have

1000  330  
2
 1  
100 
=   1
100  0.33   1000  

 101 
= 10000   1
 100 
= 10000 [1.005 – 1] = 10000 × 0.005 = 50 rad/s
9.82. An astronaut aims to determine his velocity as he approaches the
moon. To do this, he uses a source of electromagnetic waves to propagate
waves of frequency 6000 MHz. On comparing it with its echo he records a
difference of frequency of n = 100 kHz. What is the velocity of rocket
relative to the moon?
Solution: Here both source and the observer are having the same velocity
v. The apparent frequency is given by
c v
n  n
c v
where c is the velocity of light.
n c  v

n c v
 n n  n 2 v 2v
   ;c v c
n n c v c
n
v  ·c
2n
On substituting the values of the various terms, we have
100  103  3  108 10
v   103  2.5 km/s
2  6000  10 6
4
9.83. A source of sonic oscillation having frequency n = 3.2 kHz travels
along the straight path SA with a velocity of 198 m/s (Fig. 9.16). A stationary
observer O is at a distance of l = 250 m from this path. Caculate the
apparent frequency recorded by the observer when the source is closest to
it. Velocity of sound v = 330 m/s.
Solution: The source is moving along the
path SA with velocity vs. The relative speed
of the source towards the observer O is vs
cos . The apparent frequency heard by
O is given by
nv
n 
v  vs cos  Fig. 9.16
SOUND 575

n v 198
or n  ;  s   0.6
1  v s /v  cos  v 330
n
=
1   cos 
In view of the velocities of the source and sound, we have
vs
 cos 
v  v s cos 

or  cos 
1   cos 
or  cos2  + cos  –  = 0
 1  1  4 2
or cos  
2
1
=
2
1  2 2  1  

On substituting the value of cos  in the expressions for apparent

frequency, we get
n
n 
1  2
On substituting the values of n and , we have
3.2  103 3.2
n   kHz = 5 kHz
1  0.36 0.64
9.84. Two cars A and B are moving towards each other with a speed of
30 m/s. A person sitting in car A fires shots after every 3 seconds and
person sitting in car B observes them. What will be the time difference
recorded by him between two consecutive shots ? Velocity of sound
v = 330 m/s.
Solution: The apparent frequency as heard by the person sitting in car B is
given by
v  30 330  30 6 n
n  n · n 
v  30 330  30 5
Let t and t´ be the time intervals between two shots as recorded by the
persons in car A and B respectively.
Then
t n t ·n 5
 or t    3   2.5 s
t n n 6
9.85. When a train is approaching the observer, the frequency of the
whistle is 100 cps while when it has passed the observer, it is 50 cps.
Calculate the frequency when the observer moves with the train.
(Roorkee 1997)
576 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution:
nV
n' =
V  Vs
nV nV
100 = or V – Vs =
V  Vs 100
nV
Further n'' =
V  Vs
nV nV
50 = or V + Vs =
V  Vs 50
3nV
2V =
100
200
n = = 66.67 Hz
3
9.86. A bat flies perpendicular to a wall with a speed of v = 6 m/s emitting
ultrasonic waves with the frequency v = 4.5 × 104 Hz. Calculate the
frequencies that can be heard by the bat. The velocity of sound in air V =
340 m/s.
Solution: One frequency that is heard by the bat will be 4.5 × 104
The other frequency will be
V  v 
n  n
V  v 
 340  6 
n  4.5  104
340  6
4.5  346
=  104
334
= 4.66 × 104 Hz
9.87. An observer standing at the bed of a railroad observes a whistle of
the train. When the train is approaching the observer, the frequency of
the whistle as observed by him is n1, while when it has passed the observer
the frequency appears to be n2. Determine (i) the speed of the train
(ii) the frequency of the whistle. The speed of sound waves is V.
Solution:
nV
(i) n1  ; n = frequency of the whistle
V  Vs
Vs = speed of the train
nV
n2 
V  Vs
SOUND 577
n1 V  Vs
On dividing the two =
n2 V  Vs
n1V – n1Vs = n2V + n2Vs
 n1  n2 
or Vs =  V
 n1  n2 
n1
(ii) n V  Vs 
V
n  n  n2 
= 1 V  1 V
V  n1  n2 
2n1n2
=
n1  n2
9.88. Two trains run at the same speed of v = 25 m/sec along a straight
track in the same direction keeping distance of x = 2 km between them
(see Fig. 9.17). At an instant when they are symmetrically located with
respect to the point O lying at a distance of y = 1 km from the track both
trains blow a whistle of frequency 400 Hz. Taking the velocity of sound as
340 m/sec. Calculate the beat frequency recorded by the observer placed
at O.
Solution: The frequency heard at O due to the engine 1 is given by
nV
n1  ; V = velocity of sound
Vv
2
400  340
=
340  25
2
400  340
=
340  17.68
Fig. 9.17
= 421.9 Hz
The frequency heard at O due to the engine 2 is given by
nV 400  340
n2  
V v 340  17.68
2
= 380.2 Hz
Beat freq. = 422 – 380 = 42
9.89. Two automobiles travel one after the other along a straight section
of a road at the same speed of 25 m/sec in the same direction (see
Fig. 9.18). When a third vehicle travelling at the speed of 20 m/sec in the
opposite direction appeard at a distance, the driver of the second vehicle
gave a long blast of his horn at a frequency 500 Hz. Sound of what frequency
578 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

will be heard by the drivers of the first and third vehicles? Velocity of
sound = 340 m/sec.
Solution: For the first vehicle there will no Doppler effect and therefore its
driver will hear a frequency of 500 Hz. However the driver of the third
vehicle will hear the frequency n 1
given by
340  20
n1  500 
340  25
Fig. 9.18
= 571.4 Hz
9.90. A beam of He + ion moving with kinetic energy E emits a spectral line
of wavelength . Find the Doppler shift  of the line when observed at an
angle .
Solution:
1
m v2 = E
2 He
2E
v =
mHe
c
' =
c  v cos 
c  v cos  c
or =
 
 v cos  
 1   = '
 c 
 v cos 
 =     
c
 2E
= · · cos 
c mHe
2E
=  · cos 
mHe · c 2
9.91. When a spectral line of wavelength  is observed in the directions to
the opposite edges of the solar disc along its equator a difference in wave-
length equal to  is noticed. Find the period of revolution of Sun about
its own axis.
Solution: The two frequencies that will be observed will be given by
c c
  and    ;R = radius of Sun
C  R C  R
 = angular velocity of Sun
SOUND 579

C  R C C  R C
= and 
    
 R   R 
 1   = ' and   1    
 C   C 
R
1 =    
C
R
2 =    
C
2 R 4  R 
 = 1   2  
C CT
4  R
 T =
C · 
9.92. The beauty of the Doppler’s effect is to discover distant double stars
which could not be resolved by a telescope. Let us consider two stars of
equal masses revolving about their centre of mass. The spectral lines
emitted by the two stars periodically becomes doublets. Find the distance
between the stars by assuming that every time the maximum splitting of
the spectral lines (/)m occurs after a time .
Solution:
 R 2
  · ; R is radius of path
C t
   d
   ; d = 2R = distance between the stars
  m c
C   
d=  
   m
9.93. A radar operates at wavelength . Calculate the velocity of an
approaching aircraft if the beat frequency between the transmitted signal
the signal reflected from the aircraft is .
Solution:
c  v 
   ; v is the velocity
c v
2v 2v
      
c v c
1c 1
v  ·    · 
2 2
9.94. A spectral line of hydrogen atom of wavelength  is emitted from the
beam of hydrogen atoms having kinetic energy E. Find the transverse
Doppler shift of that line.
580 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

Solution: The most general representation of the Doppler’s effect is given

by
2
1v
c2
n  n ; c is velocity of light
1  v cos 
c

For transverse Doppler’s effect,  =
2
2
 n  n 1  v
c2
n  n   1 v 2
1   
n n  2 c2
1 v2
    · 2
2 c
1
m0v 2  E ; m0 = mass of hydrogen atom
2
2E
v 2 
m0
E
 
m0c 2
9.95. An astronaut is approaching the moon. He sends out a radio signal
of frequency 5 × 109 Hz and finds out that the frequency shift in echo
received is 103 Hz. Find his speed of approach.
Solution:
c  v   2v 
n  n    n 1 
 c  v   c 
n  n  n 2 v
 
n n c
c · n
v 
2n
On putting the values we have
3  108  103
v = 30 m/sec
2  5  109
9.96. A source S and a receiver R are arranged in a room with a false
ceiling, at a distance l = 6 m apart. The waves received directly from the
source are in phase with those reflected from the false ceiling at a height
h1 = 7 m above the ground. The roof of the room is 3 m above the ceiling.
On removing the ceiling the waves are reflected from the roof but no signal
SOUND 581
is registered by the receiver. Find the wavelength of the wave assuming
that incident and reflected rays make the same angle.
Solution: After reflection from the false ceiling, the total path length of the
reflected wave
l2
= 2 h1   4h12  l 2
2

4
2
Phase for reflected wave 1  path

2
= · 4h12  l 2

Apart from this a phase difference of 
will also be introduced due to reflection.
Hence the net phase difference is given
by Fig. 9.19
2
1  · 4h12  l 2  

After reflection from the roof,

l2
 h1  h2 
2
Total path length of reflected wave = 2 
4
4 h1  h2   l 2
2
=
The net phase for this reflected wave is given by
2
4 h1  h2   l 2  
2
2 

Now no signal will be obtained by the receiver R when there is
destructive interference. This is possible when 2 – 1 = 
2 
4 h1  h2   l 2  4h12  l 2   
2
or
  

  2  4 h1  h2   l 2  4 h12  l 2 
2
or
 
On substituting the values of h1, h2 and l we have

 = 2  4   3  7   62  4  72  62 
2
 

= 2 436  232 
= 2 (20.88 – 15.24)
= 11.28 m
9.97. Two sources S1 and S2, each producing sound of frequency 660 Hz,
have an acoustic output of 4 × 10–3 W. The two sources are 3 and 2 m from
582 SOLVED PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS

a point O, respectively. Calculate the resultant intensity at O. Velocity of

sound = 330 m/s.
Solution:
Path difference x = S1O – S2O = 3.0 – 2.0 = 1.0 m
2
Phase difference = ·x

2 2   660
= ·n 1  4
v 330
Resultant intensity at O = I = I1 + I2 + 2 I1 · I 2

4   103 4   103 4   103 4   103

=  2 
4  9 4  4 4  9 4  4
 1 1 1  3 25
=     10   103 W/m 2 0.7  103 W/m 2
 9 4 3  36