Question

NCERT Solutions Class 11 Physics Chapter 5 Laws of motion provided here are prepared by the experts of the subject matter. Experts have used simple language for holistic learning to make it easy for students to learn and comprehend all concepts. We have made solutions very concise to make the solutions to the point which will save students time while studying. These NCERT solutions are designed in such a manner that they will assist the learners during their CBSE term I board exams and as we in their preparation for competitive exams like JEE Mains, JEE Advance, or other similar exams.

Our NCERT Solutions Class 11 has one-step solutions for all you need. Important topics mentioned in this chapter are:

• Laws of motion – laws of motion also called newton’s law of motion states the laws which determine the motion of a body.
• Aristotle’s fallacy – an observation made by Aristotle that states that an external force is needed to keep a body in uniform motion.
• Law of inertia – Inertia is the inability of an object is changing its velocity, motion, or direction without applies of any external force.
• Newton's first law – Newton’s first law states that if a body is moving with constant speed in a straight line or it is at rest it will remain moving or at rest until and unless an external force is applied to it.
• Newton's second law of motion – newton’s second law of motion states that force applied by a body is equal to its mass and acceleration possessed by it.
• Newton’s third law of motion – every action has an equal and opposite reaction. If object A applies ‘x’ amount of force on the other object B then B will also apply ‘x’ amount of force on A. Force applied by A on B and by B on A will be equal to each other. 
• Conservation of momentum – it is the general law of physics that states in an isolated system momentum and motion do not change.
• Equilibrium of a particle - When two or more forces act upon a particle and the particle does change its motion then the particle is said to be in equilibrium.
• Common forces in mechanics –
  • Contact force
  • Non-contact force
  • Spring force
  • Frictional force
  • Tension force
  • Applied Force
  • Gravitational Force
  • Normal Force
  • Air Resistance Force
• Circular motion – The movement of an object on the circumference of a circle or rotation along a circular path.

These NCERT Solutions Class 11 Physics are very important for exams. To gain a complete understanding of the subject matter one must go through all the topics mentioned here.  One must refer to our solutions for solving questions, revision, and doing homework with ease.

Now all the solutions and practice questions are at your fingertip to get started.

Answer 1

NCERT Solutions Class 11 Physics Chapter 5 Laws of Motion

1. Give the magnitude and direction of the net force acting on 

a) a drop of rain falling down with a constant speed, 

b) a cork of mass 10 g floating on water, 

c) a kite skillfully held stationary in the sky, 

d) a car moving with a constant velocity of 30 km/h on a rough road, 

e) a high-speed electron in space far from all material objects, and free of electric and magnetic fields. 

Solution: 

a) Zero net force The rain drop is falling with a constant speed. Hence, it acceleration is zero. As per Newton’s second law of motion, the net force acting on the rain drop is zero.

 b) Zero net force The weight of the cork is acting downward. It is balanced by the buoyant force exerted by the water in the upward direction. Hence, no net force is acting on the floating cork. 

c) Zero net force The kite is stationary in the sky, i.e., it is not moving at all. Hence, as per Newton’s first law of motion, no net force is acting on the kite. 

d) Zero net force The car is moving on a rough road with a constant velocity. Hence, its acceleration is zero. As per Newton’s second law of motion, no net force is acting on the car. 

e) Zero net force The high speed electron is free from the influence of all fields. Hence, no net force is acting on the electron.

2. A pebble of mass 0.05 kg is thrown vertically upwards. Give the direction and magnitude of the net force on the pebble, 

a) during its upward motion, 

b) during its downward motion, 

c) at the highest point where it is momentarily at rest. Do your answers change if the pebble was thrown at an angle of 45° with the horizontal direction? Ignore air resistance. 

Solution:

 0.5 N, in vertically downward direction, in all cases 

Acceleration due to gravity, irrespective of the direction of motion of an object, always acts downward. The gravitational force is the only force that acts on the pebble in all three cases. Its magnitude is given by Newton’s second law of motion as: 

F = m × a 

Where, F = Net force 

m = Mass of the pebble = 0.05 kg 

a = g = 10 m/s² 

F = 0.05 × 10 = 0.5 N 

The net force on the pebble in all three cases is 0.5 N and this force acts in the downward direction. 

If the pebble is thrown at an angle of 45° with the horizontal, it will have both the horizontal and vertical components of velocity. At the highest point, only the vertical component of velocity becomes zero. However, the pebble will have the horizontal component of velocity throughout its motion. This component of velocity produces no effect on the net force acting on the pebble.

3. Give the magnitude and direction of the net force acting on a stone of mass 0.1 kg, 

a) just after it is dropped from the window of a stationary train, 

b) just after it is dropped from the window of a train running at a constant velocity of 36 km/h, 

c) just after it is dropped from the window of a train accelerating with 1 m s^–2 , 

d) lying on the floor of a train which is accelerating with 1 m s^–2 , the stone being at rest relative to the train. Neglect air resistance throughout. 

Solution: 

(a) 1 N; vertically downward 

Mass of the stone, m = 0.1 kg 

Acceleration of the stone, a = g = 10 m/s² 

As per Newton’s second law of motion, the net force acting on the stone,

 F = ma = mg = 0.1 × 10 = 1 N 

Acceleration due to gravity always acts in the downward direction. 

(b) 1 N; vertically downward 

The train is moving with a constant velocity. Hence, its acceleration is zero in the direction of its motion, i.e., in the horizontal direction. Hence, no force is acting on the stone in the horizontal direction. 

The net force acting on the stone is because of acceleration due to gravity and it always acts vertically downward. The magnitude of this force is 1 N. 

(c) 1 N; vertically downward 

It is given that the train is accelerating at the rate of 1 m/s². 

Therefore, the net force acting on the stone, F' = ma = 0.1 × 1 = 0.1 N 

This force is acting in the horizontal direction. Now, when the stone is dropped, the horizontal force F,' stops acting on the stone. This is because of the fact that the force acting on a body at an instant depends on the situation at that instant and not on earlier situations.

Therefore, the net force acting on the stone is given only by acceleration due to gravity. 

F = mg = 1 N 

This force acts vertically downward. 

(d) 0.1 N; in the direction of motion of the train 

The weight of the stone is balanced by the normal reaction of the floor. The only acceleration is provided by the horizontal motion of the train. 

Acceleration of the train, a = 0.1 m/s² 

The net force acting on the stone will be in the direction of motion of the train. Its magnitude is given by: 

F = ma = 0.1 × 1 = 0.1 N 

4. One end of a string of length l is connected to a particle of mass m and the other to a small peg on a smooth horizontal table. If the particle moves in a circle with speed v the net force on the particle (directed towards the centre) is: 

(i) T, 

(ii) − \(\frac {mv^2}{l}\)

(iii) + \(\frac {mv^2}{l}\)

(iv) 0 

T is the tension in the string.

Solution:

Correct option is : (i) T 

When a particle connected to a string revolves in a circular path around a centre, the centripetal force is provided by the tension produced in the string. Hence, in the given case, the net force on the particle is the tension T, i.e., 

= = \(\frac {mv^2}{l}\) 

Where F is the net force acting on the particle.

5 A constant retarding force of 50 N is applied to a body of mass 20 kg moving initially with a speed of 15 ms^–1. How long does the body take to stop? 

Solution:

Retarding force, F = –50 N 

Mass of the body, m = 20 kg 

Initial velocity of the body, u = 15 m/s 

Final velocity of the body, v = 0 

Using Newton’s second law of motion, the acceleration (a) produced in the body can be calculated as: 

F = ma 

–50 = 20 × a

∴ a = \(\frac {-50}{20} = -2.5 m/s^2\)

Using the first equation of motion, the time (t) taken by the body to come to rest can be calculated as: v = u + at

∴ t = \(\frac {-u}{a} = \frac {-15}{-2.5}\) = 6s

6. A constant force acting on a body of mass 3.0 kg changes its speed from 2.0 m s^–1 to 3.5 m s^–1 in 25 s. The direction of the motion of the body remains unchanged. What is the magnitude and direction of the force? 

Solution: 

0.18 N; in the direction of motion of the body 

Mass of the body, m = 3 kg 

Initial speed of the body, u = 2 m/s 

Final speed of the body, v = 3.5 m/s 

Time, t = 25 s

Using the first equation of motion, the acceleration (a) produced in the body can be calculated as: v = u + at

∴ a = \(\frac {v-u}{t}\)

= \(\frac {3.5-2}{25} = \frac {1.5}{25} = 0.06 \,m/s^2\)

As per Newton’s second law of motion, force is given as: 

F = ma = 3 × 0.06 = 0.18 N 

Since the application of force does not change the direction of the body, the net force acting on the body is in the direction of its motion.

Answer 2

7. A body of mass 5 kg is acted upon by two perpendicular forces 8 N and 6 N. Give the magnitude and direction of the acceleration of the body. 

Solution: 

2 m/s² , at an angle of 37° with a force of 8 N 

Mass of the body, m = 5 kg 

The given situation can be represented as follows:

The resultant of two forces is given as:

R = \(\sqrt {(8)^2 + (-6)^2} = \sqrt {64 + 36} = 10 N\)

θ is the angle made by R with the force of 8 N

∴ θ = tan-1 \((\frac {-6}{8}) = -36.87°\)

The negative sign indicates that θ is in the clockwise direction with respect to the force of magnitude 8 N. 

As per Newton’s second law of motion, the acceleration (a) of the body is given as:

F = ma

∴ a = \(\frac Fm = \frac {10}{5}\) = 2 m/s²

8. The driver of a three-wheeler moving with a speed of 36 km/h sees a child standing in the middle of the road and brings his vehicle to rest in 4.0 s just in time to save the child. What is the average retarding force on the vehicle? The mass of the three-wheeler is 400 kg and the mass of the driver is 65 kg. 

Solution: 

Initial speed of the three-wheeler, u = 36 km/h 

Final speed of the three-wheeler, v = 10 m/s 

Time, t = 4 s 

Mass of the three-wheeler, m = 400 kg 

Mass of the driver, m' = 65 kg 

Total mass of the system, M = 400 + 65 = 465 kg 

Using the first law of motion, the acceleration (a) of the three-wheeler can be calculated as: v = u + at

∴ a = \(\frac {v-u}{t} = \frac {0-10}{4} = -2.5\, m/s^2\)

The negative sign indicates that the velocity of the three-wheeler is decreasing with time. 

Using Newton’s second law of motion, the net force acting on the three-wheeler can be calculated as:

F = Ma = 465 × (–2.5) = –1162.5 N

The negative sign indicates that the force is acting against the direction of motion of the three-wheeler.

9. A rocket with a lift-off mass 20,000 kg is blasted upwards with an initial acceleration of 5.0 m s^–2. Calculate the initial thrust (force) of the blast. 

Solution: 

Mass of the rocket, m = 20,000 kg 

Initial acceleration, a = 5 m/s² 

Acceleration due to gravity, g = 10 m/s² 

Using Newton’s second law of motion, the net force (thrust) acting on the rocket is given by the relation: 

F – mg = ma 

F = m (g + a) 

= 20000 × (10 + 5) = 20000 × 15 = 3 × 10⁵ N

10. A body of mass 0.40 kg moving initially with a constant speed of 10 m s^–1 to the north is subject to a constant force of 8.0 N directed towards the south for 30 s. Take the instant the force is applied to be t = 0, the position of the body at that time to be x = 0, and predict its position at t = –5 s, 25 s, 100 s. 

Solution: 

Mass of the body, m = 0.40 kg 

Initial speed of the body, u = 10 m/s due north 

Force acting on the body, F = –8.0 N 

Acceleration produced in the body, a = \(\frac Fm = \frac {-8.0}{0.40}\) = -20 m/s²

At t = –5 s 

Acceleration, a' = 0 and u = 10 m/s

s = ut + 1/2 a't²

= 10 x (-5) = -50m

At t = 25 s

Acceleration, a'' = –20 m/s² and u = 10 m/s

s' = ut' + 1/2 a'' t²

= 10 x 25 + 1/2 x (-20) x (25)²

= 250 + 6250 = -6000 m

At t = 100 s

For 0 ≤ t ≤ 30 s

a = -20 m/s²

u = 10 m/s

s₁ = ut + 1/2 a'' t²

= 10 x 30 + 1/2 x (-20) x (30)²

= 300 - 9000

= 8700m

For 30'<t ≤100 s

As per the first equation of motion, for t = 30 s, final velocity is given as:

v = u + at 

= 10 + (–20) × 30 = –590 m/s 

Velocity of the body after 30 s = –590 m/s 

For motion between 30 s to 100 s, i.e., in 70 s:

s₂ = vt + 1/2 a'' t²

= –590 × 70 = –41300 m

Total distance, s'' = s₁ + s₂ = -8700 - 41300 = -50000m

Answer 3

11. A truck starts from rest and accelerates uniformly at 2.0 m s^–2 . At t = 10 s, a stone is dropped by a person standing on the top of the truck (6 m high from the ground). What are the 

(a) velocity, and 

(b) acceleration of the stone at t = 11 s? (Neglect air resistance.) 

Solution: 

(a) 22.36 m/s, at an angle of 26.57° with the motion of the truck

(b) 10 m/s² 

Initial velocity of the truck, u = 0 

Acceleration, a = 2 m/s²

Time, t = 10 s 

As per the first equation of motion, final velocity is given as: 

v = u + at = 0 + 2 × 10 = 20 m/s 

The final velocity of the truck and hence, of the stone is 20 m/s. 

At t = 11 s, the horizontal component (v_x) of velocity, in the absence of air resistance, remains unchanged, i.e., v_x = 20 m/s 

The vertical component (v_y) of velocity of the stone is given by the first equation of motion as: v_y = u + a_yδt 

Where, δt = 11 – 10 = 1 s and a_y = g = 10 m/s² 

∴ v_y = 0 + 10 × 1 = 10 m/s 

The resultant velocity (v) of the stone is given as:

Let θ be the angle made by the resultant velocity with the horizontal component of velocity, v_x

When the stone is dropped from the truck, the horizontal force acting on it becomes zero. However, the stone continues to move under the influence of gravity. Hence, the acceleration of the stone is 10 m/s² and it acts vertically downward.

12. A bob of mass 0.1 kg hung from the ceiling of a room by a string 2 m long is set into oscillation. The speed of the bob at its mean position is 1 m s^–1 . What is the trajectory of the bob if the string is cut when the bob is 

(a) at one of its extreme positions, 

(b) at its mean position. 

Solution: 

(a) Vertically downward Parabolic path At the extreme position, the velocity of the bob becomes zero. If the string is cut at this moment, then the bob will fall vertically on the ground. 

(b) At the mean position, the velocity of the bob is 1 m/s. The direction of this velocity is tangential to the arc formed by the oscillating bob. If the bob is cut at the mean position, then it will trace a projectile path having the horizontal component of velocity only. Hence, it will follow a parabolic path. 

13. A man of mass 70 kg stands on a weighing scale in a lift which is moving 

a) upwards with a uniform speed of 10 m s^–1 , 

b) downwards with a uniform acceleration of 5 m s^–2, c) upwards with a uniform acceleration of 5 m s^–2 . What would be the readings on the scale in each case? 

d) What would be the reading if the lift mechanism failed and it hurtled down freely under gravity?

Solution: 

Mass of the man, m = 70 kg 

Acceleration, a = 0 

Using Newton’s second law of motion, we can write the equation of motion as: 

R – mg = ma 

Where, ma is the net force acting on the man. 

As the lift is moving at a uniform speed, acceleration a = 0 

∴ R = mg = 70 × 10 = 700 N 

∴ Reading on the weighing scale = \(\frac {700}{g} = \frac {700}{10}\) = 70 kg

Mass of the man, m = 70 kg 

Acceleration, a = 5 m/s² downward 

Using Newton’s second law of motion, we can write the equation of motion as: 

R + mg = ma 

R = m(g – a) = 70 (10 – 5) = 70 × 5 = 350 N

∴Reading on the weighing scale =   \(\frac {370}{g} = \frac {350}{10}\) = 35 kg

Mass of the man, m = 70 kg Acceleration, a = 5 m/s² upward 

Using Newton’s second law of motion, we can write the equation of motion as:

R – mg = ma 

R = m(g + a) = 70 (10 + 5) = 70 × 15 = 1050 N 

∴ Reading on the weighing scale =   \(\frac {1050}{g} = \frac {1050}{10}\) = 105 kg

When the lift moves freely under gravity, acceleration a = g 

Using Newton’s second law of motion, we can write the equation of motion as: 

R + mg = ma 

R = m(g – a) = m(g – g) = 0

∴ Reading on the weighing scale = 0/g = 0 kg

The man will be in a state of weightlessness.

14: Figure shows the position-time graph of a particle of mass 4 kg. What is the 

(a) force on the particle for t < 0, t > 4 s, 0 < t < 4 s? 

(b) impulse at t = 0 and t = 4 s? (Consider one-dimensional motion only).

Solution: 

a) For t < 0 

It can be observed from the given graph that the position of the particle is coincident with the time axis. It indicates that the displacement of the particle in this time interval is zero. Hence, the force acting on the particle is zero.

For t > 4 s 

It can be observed from the given graph that the position of the particle is parallel to the time axis. It indicates that the particle is at rest at a distance of 3 m from the origin. Hence, no force is acting on the particle. 

For 0 < t < 4 

It can be observed that the given position-time graph has a constant slope. Hence, the acceleration produced in the particle is zero. Therefore, the force acting on the particle is zero. 

b) At t = 0 

Impulse = Change in momentum 

= mv – mu 

Mass of the particle, m = 4 kg 

Initial velocity of the particle, u = 0

Final velocity of the particle, v = 3/4 m/s

∴ Impulse = 4 \((\frac 34-0) \) = 3 kg m/s

At t = 4 s

Initial velocity of the particle, u = 3/4 m/s

Final velocity of the particle, v = 0

∴ Impulse = 4 (0 - \(\frac 34\)) = -3 kg m/s

Answer 4

15. Two bodies of masses 10 kg and 20 kg respectively kept on a smooth, horizontal surface are tied to the ends of a light string. A horizontal force F = 600 N is applied to (i) A, (ii) B along the direction of string. What is the tension in the string in each case?

Solution: 

Horizontal force, F = 600 N 

Mass of body A, m₁ = 10 kg 

Mass of body B, m₂ = 20 kg 

Total mass of the system, m = m₁ + m₂ = 30 kg 

Using Newton’s second law of motion, the acceleration (a) produced in the system can be calculated as: 

F = ma

∴ a = \(\frac {F} {m}= \frac {600}{30} \) = 20 m/s²

When force F is applied on body A:

The equation of motion can be written as: 

F – T = m₁a 

∴ T = F – m₁a = 600 – 10 × 20 = 400 N …………. (i) 

When force F is applied on body B:

The equation of motion can be written as: 

F – T = m₂a 

T = F – m₂a 

T = 600 – 20 × 20 = 200 N ………….. (ii)

16. Two masses 8 kg and 12 kg are connected at the two ends of a light inextensible string that goes over a frictionless pulley. Find the acceleration of the masses, and the tension in the string when the masses are released. 

Solution: 

The given system of two masses and a pulley can be represented as shown in the following figure:

Smaller mass, m₁ = 8 kg 

Larger mass, m₂ = 12 kg 

Tension in the string = T 

Mass m₂, owing to its weight, moves downward with acceleration a, and mass m₁ moves upward. 

Applying Newton’s second law of motion to the system of each mass: 

For mass m₁: The equation of motion can be written as: 

T – m₁g = ma …………………… (i) 

For mass m₂: The equation of motion can be written as: 

m₂g – T = m₂a ………………….… (ii) 

Adding equations (i) and (ii), we get:

Therefore, the acceleration of the masses is 2 m/s². 

Substituting the value of a in equation (ii), we get:

Therefore, the tension in the string is 96 N.

17. A nucleus is at rest in the laboratory frame of reference. Show that if it disintegrates into two smaller nuclei the products must move in opposite directions. 

Solution: 

Let m, m₁, and m₂ be the respective masses of the parent nucleus and the two daughter nuclei. The parent nucleus is at rest. 

Initial momentum of the system (parent nucleus) = 0 

Let v₁ and v₂ be the respective velocities of the daughter nuclei having masses m₁ and m₂. 

Total linear momentum of the system after disintegration = m₁v₁ + m₂v₂

According to the law of conservation of momentum: 

Total initial momentum = Total final momentum

0 = m₁v₁ + m₂v₂

v_{1 = \(\frac {-m_2v_2}{m_1}\)}

Here, the negative sign indicates that the fragments of the parent nucleus move in directions opposite to each other.

18. Two billiard balls each of mass 0.05 kg moving in opposite directions with speed 6 ms^–1 collide and rebound with the same speed. What is the impulse imparted to each ball due to the other? 

Solution: 

Mass of each ball = 0.05 kg 

Initial velocity of each ball = 6 m/s 

Magnitude of the initial momentum of each ball, pi = 0.3 kg m/s 

After collision, the balls change their directions of motion without changing the magnitudes of their velocity. 

Final momentum of each ball, p_f = –0.3 kg m/s 

Impulse imparted to each ball = Change in the momentum of the system 

= p_f – p_i = –0.3 – 0.3 = –0.6 kg m/s 

The negative sign indicates that the impulses imparted to the balls are opposite in direction.

19. A shell of mass 0.020 kg is fired by a gun of mass 100 kg. If the muzzle speed of the shell is 80 m s^–1 , what is the recoil speed of the gun?

Solution: 

Mass of the gun, M = 100 kg 

Mass of the shell, m = 0.020 kg

Muzzle speed of the shell, v = 80 m/s 

Recoil speed of the gun = V 

Both the gun and the shell are at rest initially. 

Initial momentum of the system = 0 

Final momentum of the system = mv – MV 

Here, the negative sign appears because the directions of the shell and the gun are opposite to each other. 

According to the law of conservation of momentum: 

Final momentum = Initial momentum 

mv – MV = 0

∴ V = mv/M

= \(\frac {0.20 \times 80}{100 \times 1000}\) = 0.016 m/s

20. A batsman deflects a ball by an angle of 45° without changing its initial speed which is equal to 54 km/h. What is the impulse imparted to the ball? (Mass of the ball is 0.15 kg.) 

Solution: 

The given situation can be represented as shown in the following figure.

Where, 

AO = Incident path of the ball 

OB = Path followed by the ball after deflection

∠AOB = Angle between the incident and deflected paths of the ball = 45° 

∠AOP = ∠BOP = 22.5° = θ 

Initial and final velocities of the ball = v 

Horizontal component of the initial velocity = vcos θ along RO 

Vertical component of the initial velocity = vsin θ along PO 

Horizontal component of the final velocity = vcos θ along OS 

Vertical component of the final velocity = vsin θ along OP 

The horizontal components of velocities suffer no change. The vertical components of velocities are in the opposite directions. 

∴Impulse imparted to the ball = Change in the linear momentum of the ball

= mv cos θ - (-mv cos θ)

= 2 mv cos θ

Mass of the ball, m = 0.15 kg 

Velocity of the ball, v = 54 km/h = 15 m/s 

∴ Impulse = 2 × 0.15 × 15 cos 22.5° = 4.16 kg m/s

Answer 5

21. A stone of mass 0.25 kg tied to the end of a string is whirled round in a circle of radius 1.5 m with a speed of 40 rev./min in a horizontal plane. What is the tension in the string? What is the maximum speed with which the stone can be whirled around if the string can withstand a maximum tension of 200 N? 

Solution: 

Mass of the stone, m = 0.25 kg 

Radius of the circle, r = 1.5 m

Number of revolution per second, \(n = \frac {40}{60} = \frac 23 rps\)

Angular velocity, ω = \(\frac vr\) = 2 ………………….(i)

The centripetal force for the stone is provided by the tension T, in the string, i.e.,

T = F_Centripetal

= 6.57 N

Maximum tension in the string, T_max = 200 N

Therefore, the maximum speed of the stone is 34.64 m/s. 

22. If, in Question 21, the speed of the stone is increased beyond the maximum permissible value, and the string breaks suddenly, which of the following correctly describes the trajectory of the stone after the string breaks: 

a) the stone moves radially outwards, 

b) the stone flies off tangentially from the instant the string breaks, 

c) the stone flies off at an angle with the tangent whose magnitude depends on the speed of the particle ? 

Solution: 

Option (b) is correct.

When the string breaks, the stone will move in the direction of the velocity at that instant. According to the first law of motion, the direction of velocity vector is tangential to the path of the stone at that instant. Hence, the stone will fly off tangentially from the instant the string breaks.

23. Explain why 

a) a horse cannot pull a cart and run in empty space, 

b) passengers are thrown forward from their seats when a speeding bus stops suddenly,

c) it is easier to pull a lawn mower than to push it, 

d) a cricketer moves his hands backwards while holding a catch. 

Solution: 

a) In order to pull a cart, a horse pushes the ground backward with some force. The ground in turn exerts an equal and opposite reaction force upon the feet of the horse. This reaction force causes the horse to move forward. An empty space is devoid of any such reaction force. Therefore, a horse cannot pull a cart and run in empty space. 

b) When a speeding bus stops suddenly, the lower portion of a passenger’s body, which is in contact with the seat, suddenly comes to rest. However, the upper portion tends to remain in motion (as per the first law of motion). As a result, the passenger’s upper body is thrown forward in the direction in which the bus was moving. 

c) While pulling a lawn mower, a force at an angle θ is applied on it, as shown in the following figure.

The vertical component of this applied force acts upward. This reduces the effective weight of the mower. 

On the other hand, while pushing a lawn mower, a force at an angle θ is applied on it, as shown in the following figure.

In this case, the vertical component of the applied force acts in the direction of the weight of the mower. This increases the effective weight of the mower. 

Since the effective weight of the lawn mower is lesser in the first case, pulling the lawn mower is easier than pushing it. 

d) According to Newton’s second law of motion, we have the equation of motion:

F = ma = m \(\frac {\triangle v}{\triangle t}\) ...(i)

Where, F = Stopping force experienced by the cricketer as he catches the ball 

m = Mass of the ball 

Δt = Time of impact of the ball with the hand 

It can be inferred from equation (i) that the impact force is inversely proportional to the impact time, i.e.,

F = ∝ \(\frac {1}{\triangle t}\) ....(ii)

Equation (ii) shows that the force experienced by the cricketer decreases if the time of impact increases and vice versa. 

While taking a catch, a cricketer moves his hand backward so as to increase the time of impact (Δt). This is turn results in the decrease in the stopping force, thereby preventing the hands of the cricketer from getting hurt.

Answer 6

24. Figure shows the position-time graph of a body of mass 0.04 kg. Suggest a suitable physical context for this motion. What is the time between two consecutive impulses received by the body? What is the magnitude of each impulse?

Solution:

 A ball rebounding between two walls located between at x = 0 and x = 2 cm; after every 2 s, the ball receives an impulse of magnitude 0.08 × 10^-2 kg m/s from the walls.

The given graph shows that a body changes its direction of motion after every 2 s. Physically, this situation can be visualized as a ball rebounding to and from between two stationary walls situated between positions x = 0 and x = 2 cm. Since the slope of the x-t graph reverses after every 2 s, the ball collides with a wall after every 2 s. Therefore, ball receives an impulse after every 2 s. 

Mass of the ball, m = 0.04 kg 

The slope of the graph gives the velocity of the ball. Using the graph, we can calculate initial velocity (u) as:

u = \(\frac {(2-0) \times 10^{-2}}{(2-0)}\) =10^-2 m/s

Velocity of the ball before collision, u = 10^-2 m/s 

Velocity of the ball after collision, v = –10^-2 m/s

(Here, the negative sign arises as the ball reverses its direction of motion.) 

Magnitude of impulse = Change in momentum

= |mv - mu|

= |0.04 (v-u)|

=|0.04(-10^-2 - 10^-2)|

= 0.08 × 10^-2 kg m/s

25. Figure shows a man standing stationary with respect to a horizontal conveyor belt that is accelerating with 1 m s^–2 . What is the net force on the man? If the coefficient of static friction between the man’s shoes and the belt is 0.2, up to what acceleration of the belt can the man continue to be stationary relative to the belt? (Mass of the man = 65 kg.)

Solution:

Mass of the man, m = 65 kg 

Acceleration of the belt, a = 1 m/s² 

Coefficient of static friction, μ = 0.2

The net force F, acting on the man is given by Newton’s second law of motion as: 

F'_net = ma = 65 × 1 = 65 N 

The man will continue to be stationary with respect to the conveyor belt until the net force on the man is less than or equal to the frictional force f_s, exerted by the belt, i.e., 

F'_net = f'_s  μmg

ma'= 

∴ a' = 0.2 × 10 = 2 m/s² 

Therefore, the maximum acceleration of the belt up to which the man can stand stationary is 2 m/s²

26. A stone of mass m tied to the end of a string revolves in a vertical circle of radius R. The net forces at the lowest and highest points of the circle directed vertically downwards are:

Ser No	Lowest Point	Highest Point
(a)	mg - T1	mg + T2
(b)	mg + T1	mg - T2
(c)	mg + T1 - \(\frac {mv^2_1}{R}\)	mg - T2 + \(\frac {mv^2_1}{R}\)
(d)	mg - T1 - \(\frac {mv^2_1}{R}\)	mg + T2 + \(\frac {mv^2_1}{R}\)

T₁ and v₁ denote the tension and speed at the lowest point. T₂ and v₂ denote corresponding values at the highest point. 

Solution: 

The free body diagram of the stone at the lowest point is shown in the following figure.

According to Newton’s second law of motion, the net force acting on the stone at this point is equal to the centripetal force, i.e.,

F_net = T - mg = \(\frac {mv^2_1}{R}\) ........(i)

Where, v₁ = Velocity at the lowest point The free body diagram of the stone at the highest point is shown in the following figure.

Using Newton’s second law of motion, we have:

T + mg = \(\frac {mv^2_1}{R}\) ......(ii)

Where, v₂ = Velocity at the highest point.

It is clear from equations (i) and (ii) that the net force acting at the lowest and the highest points are respectively (T – mg) and (T + mg).

27. A helicopter of mass 1000 kg rises with a vertical acceleration of 15 m s^–2 . The crew and the passengers weigh 300 kg. Give the magnitude and direction of the 

a) force on the floor by the crew and passengers, 

b) action of the rotor of the helicopter on the surrounding air, 

c) force on the helicopter due to the surrounding air. 

Solution: 

Mass of the helicopter, mh = 1000 kg 

Mass of the crew and passengers, mp = 300 kg 

Total mass of the system, m = 1300 kg 

Acceleration of the helicopter, a = 15 m/s² 

a) Using Newton’s second law of motion, the reaction force R, on the system by the floor can be calculated as: 

R – m_pg = ma 

= mp(g + a) 

= 300 (10 + 15) = 300 × 25 

= 7500 N 

Since the helicopter is accelerating vertically upward, the reaction force will also be directed upward. Therefore, as per Newton’s third law of motion, the force on the floor by the crew and passengers is 7500 N, directed downward. 

Using Newton’s second law of motion, the reaction force R’, experienced by the helicopter can be calculated as:

R' - mg = ma

= m(g + a)

= 1300 (10 + 15) = 1300 × 25

= 32500 N 

b) The reaction force experienced by the helicopter from the surrounding air is acting upward. Hence, as per Newton’s third law of motion, the action of the rotor on the surrounding air will be 32500 N, directed downward. 

c) The force on the helicopter due to the surrounding air is 32500 N, directed upward.

28. A stream of water flowing horizontally with a speed of 15 m s^–1 gushes out of a tube of cross-sectional area 10^–2 m², and hits a vertical wall nearby. What is the force exerted on the wall by the impact of water, assuming it does not rebound? 

Solution:

Speed of the water stream, v = 15 m/s 

Cross-sectional area of the tube, A = 10^–2 m² 

Volume of water coming out from the pipe per second, 

V = Av = 15 × 10–2 m 3/s 

Density of water, ρ = 103 kg/m3 

Mass of water flowing out through the pipe per second = ρ × V = 150 kg/s 

The water strikes the wall and does not rebound. Therefore, the force exerted by the water on the wall is given by Newton’s second law of motion as:

F = Rate of change of momentum = \(\frac {\triangle P}{\triangle t}\) = \(\frac {mv}{t}\)

= 150 x 15 = 2250 N

Answer 7

 29. Ten one-rupee coins are put on top of each other on a table. Each coin has a mass m. Give the magnitude and direction of 

a) the force on the 7th coin (counted from the bottom) due to all the coins on its top, 

b) the force on the 7th coin by the eighth coin, 

c) the reaction of the 6th coin on the 7th coin. 

Solution: 

a) Force on the seventh coin is exerted by the weight of the three coins on its top. 

Weight of one coin = mg 

Weight of three coins = 3mg 

Hence, the force exerted on the 7th coin by the three coins on its top is 3mg. This force acts vertically downward. 

b) Force on the seventh coin by the eighth coin is because of the weight of the eighth coin and the other two coins (ninth and tenth) on its top. 

Weight of the eighth coin = mg 

Weight of the ninth coin = mg 

Weight of the tenth coin = mg 

Total weight of these three coins = 3mg 

Hence, the force exerted on the 7th coin by the eighth coin is 3mg. This force acts vertically downward. 

c) The 6th coin experiences a downward force because of the weight of the four coins (7th , 8th, 9th, and 10th) on its top. 

Therefore, the total downward force experienced by the 6th coin is 4mg. 

As per Newton’s third law of motion, the 6th coin will produce an equal reaction force on the 7th coin, but in the opposite direction. Hence, the reaction force of the 6th coin on the 7th coin is of magnitude 4mg. This force acts in the upward direction.

30. An aircraft executes a horizontal loop at a speed of 720 km/h with its wings banked at 15°. What is the radius of the loop?

Solution:

Speed of the aircraft, v = 720 km/h  = 720 x 5/18 = 200 m/s

Acceleration due to gravity, g = 10 m/s² 

Angle of banking, θ = 15° 

For radius r, of the loop, we have the relation: 

tan θ = \(\frac {v^2}{rg}\)

r = \(\frac {v^2}{g\,tan θ}\) 

= \(\frac {200 \times 200}{10\times tan 15} = \frac {4000}{0.268}\)

= 14925.37 m 

= 14.92 km

31. A train runs along an unbanked circular track of radius 30 m at a speed of 54 km/h. The mass of the train is 10⁶ kg. What provides the centripetal force required for this purpose – The engine or the rails? What is the angle of banking required to prevent wearing out of the rail? 

Solution:

Radius of the circular track, r = 30 m 

Speed of the train, v = 54 km/h = 15 m/s 

Mass of the train, m = 10⁶ kg 

The centripetal force is provided by the lateral thrust of the rail on the wheel. As per Newton’s third law of motion, the wheel exerts an equal and opposite force on the rail.

This reaction force is responsible for the wear and rear of the rail.

The angle of banking θ, is related to the radius (r) and speed (v) by the relation: 

tan θ = \(\frac {v^2}{rg}\) = \(\frac {(15)^2}{30\times 10}= \frac {225}{300}\)

θ = tan-1 (0.75) = 36.87°.

Therefore, the angle of banking is about 36.87°.

32. A block of mass 25 kg is raised by a 50 kg man in two different ways as shown in given fig. What is the action on the floor by the man in the two cases? If the floor yields to a normal force of 700 N, which mode should the man adopt to lift the block without the floor yielding?

Solution: 

750 N and 250 N in the respective cases; Method (b) 

Mass of the block, m = 25 kg 

Mass of the man, M = 50 kg 

Acceleration due to gravity, g = 10 m/s²

Force applied on the block, F = 25 × 10 = 250 N 

Weight of the man, W = 50 × 10 = 500 N 

Case (a): When the man lifts the block directly 

In this case, the man applies a force in the upward direction. This increases his apparent weight. 

∴ Action on the floor by the man = 250 + 500 = 750 N 

Case (b): When the man lifts the block using a pulley 

In this case, the man applies a force in the downward direction. This decreases his apparent weight. 

∴ Action on the floor by the man = 500 – 250 = 250 N 

If the floor can yield to a normal force of 700 N, then the man should adopt the second method to easily lift the block by applying lesser force.

Answer 8

33: A monkey of mass 40 kg climbs on a rope (Figure) which can stand a maximum tension of 600 N. In which of the following cases will the rope break: the monkey 

a) climbs up with an acceleration of 6 m s^–2 

b) climbs down with an acceleration of 4 m s^–2 

c) climbs up with a uniform speed of 5 m s^–1 

d) falls down the rope nearly freely under gravity? 

(Ignore the mass of the rope).

Solution: 

Case (a) 

Mass of the monkey, m = 40 kg

Acceleration due to gravity, g = 10 m/s 

Maximum tension that the rope can bear, T_max = 600 N 

Acceleration of the monkey, a = 6 m/s² upward 

Using Newton’s second law of motion, we can write the equation of motion as: 

T – mg = ma 

∴ T = m(g + a) 

= 40 (10 + 6) 

= 640 N 

Since T > T_max, the rope will break in this case. 

Case (b) 

Acceleration of the monkey, a = 4 m/s² downward 

Using Newton’s second law of motion, we can write the equation of motion as: 

mg – T = ma 

∴ T = m (g – a) 

= 40(10 – 4) 

= 240 N 

Since T < T_max, the rope will not break in this case. 

Case (c) 

The monkey is climbing with a uniform speed of 5 m/s. Therefore, its acceleration is zero, i.e., a = 0. 

Using Newton’s second law of motion, we can write the equation of motion as: 

T – mg = ma

T – mg = 0 

∴T = mg 

= 40 × 10 

= 400 N 

Since T < T_max, the rope will not break in this case. 

Case (d) 

When the monkey falls freely under gravity, its will acceleration become equal to the acceleration due to gravity, i.e., a = g 

Using Newton’s second law of motion, we can write the equation of motion as: 

mg – T = mg 

∴ T = m(g – g) = 0 

Since T < T_max, the rope will not break in this case.

34. Two bodies A and B of masses 5 kg and 10 kg in contact with each other rest on a table against a rigid wall (Figure). The coefficient of friction between the bodies and the table is 0.15. A force of 200 N is applied horizontally to A. What are 

(a) the reaction of the partition 

(b) the action-reaction forces between A and B? What happens when the wall is removed? Does the answer to (b) change, when the bodies are in motion? Ignore the difference between μs and μk.

Solution:

Mass of body A, m_A = 5 kg 

Mass of body B, m_B = 10 kg

Applied force, F = 200 N 

Coefficient of friction, μ_s = 0.15 

The force of friction is given by the relation: 

f_s = μ (m_A +m_B)g 

= 0.15 (5 + 10) × 10 

= 1.5 × 15 = 22.5 N leftward 

Net force acting on the partition = 200 – 22.5 = 177.5 N rightward 

As per Newton’s third law of motion, the reaction force of the partition will be in the direction opposite to the net applied force. 

Hence, the reaction of the partition will be 177.5 N, in the leftward direction. 

Force of friction on mass A: 

f_A = μm_Ag 

= 0.15 × 5 × 10 = 7.5 N leftward 

Net force exerted by mass A on mass B = 200 – 7.5 = 192.5 N rightward 

As per Newton’s third law of motion, an equal amount of reaction force will be exerted by mass B on mass A, i.e., 192.5 N acting leftward. 

When the wall is removed, the two bodies will move in the direction of the applied force. 

Net force acting on the moving system = 177.5 N 

The equation of motion for the system of acceleration a, can be written as:

Net force = (m_A + m_B)a

∴ a = \(\frac {Net\,force}{m_A+m_B} = \frac {177.5}{5+10} = \frac {177.5}{15} \) = 11.83 m/s²

Net force causing mass A to move: 

F_A = m_Aa 

= 5 × 11.83 = 59.15 N 

Net force exerted by mass A on mass B = 192.5 – 59.15 = 133.35 N 

This force will act in the direction of motion. As per Newton’s third law of motion, an equal amount of force will be exerted by mass B on mass A, i.e., 133.3 N, acting opposite to the direction of motion. 

35. A block of mass 15 kg is placed on a long trolley. The coefficient of static friction between the block and the trolley is 0.18. The trolley accelerates from rest with 0.5 m s^–2 for 20 s and then moves with uniform velocity. Discuss the motion of the block as viewed by 

(a) a stationary observer on the ground, 

(b) an observer moving with the trolley. 

Solution: 

Mass of the block, m = 15 kg 

Coefficient of static friction, μ = 0.18 

Acceleration of the trolley, a = 0.5 m/s2 

As per Newton’s second law of motion, the force (F) on the block caused by the motion of the trolley is given by the relation: 

F = ma = 15 × 0.5 = 7.5 N 

This force is acted in the direction of motion of the trolley. 

Force of static friction between the block and the trolley:

f = μmg 

= 0.18 × 15 × 10 = 27 N

The force of static friction between the block and the trolley is greater than the applied external force. Hence, for an observer on the ground, the block will appear to be at rest. 

When the trolley moves with uniform velocity there will be no applied external force. Only the force of friction will act on the block in this situation. 

An observer, moving with the trolley, has some acceleration. This is the case of non inertial frame of reference. The frictional force, acting on the trolley backward, is opposed by a pseudo force of the same magnitude. However, this force acts in the opposite direction. Thus, the trolley will appear to be at rest for the observer moving with the trolley.

Answer 9

36. The rear side of a truck is open and a box of 40 kg mass is placed 5 m away from the open end as shown in Figure. The coefficient of friction between the box and the surface below it is 0.15. On a straight road, the truck starts from rest and accelerates with 2 ms^–2 . At what distance from the starting point does the box fall off the truck? (Ignore the size of the box).

Solution:

Mass of the box, m = 40 kg 

Coefficient of friction, μ = 0.15 

Initial velocity, u = 0 

Acceleration, a = 2 m/s² 

Distance of the box from the end of the truck, s' = 5 m 

As per Newton’s second law of motion, the force on the box caused by the accelerated motion of the truck is given by: 

F = ma = 40 × 2 = 80 N

As per Newton’s third law of motion, a reaction force of 80 N is acting on the box in the backward direction. The backward motion of the box is opposed by the force of friction f, acting between the box and the floor of the truck. This force is given by: 

f = μmg = 0.15 × 40 × 10 = 60 N 

Net force acting on the block: 

F_net = 80 – 60 = 20 N backward 

The backward acceleration produced in the box is given by: 

a_back = \(\frac {F_{net}}{m} = \frac {20}{40} \) = 0.5 m/s²

Using the second equation of motion, time t can be calculated as: 

s'= ut + \(\frac 12\) a_backt²

5 = 0 + \(\frac 12\)x 0.5 x t²

∴ t = √20 m

Hence, the box will fall from the truck after √20 s from start. 

The distance s, travelled by the truck in √20 is given by the relation: 

s = ut + \(\frac 12\) at²

= 0 + \(\frac 12\) x 2 x (√20)²

= 20 m

37. A disc revolves with a speed of 33 \(\frac 13\) rev/min, and has a radius of 15 cm. Two coins are placed at 4 cm and 14 cm away from the centre of the record. If the co-efficient of friction between the coins and the record is 0.15, which of the coins will revolve with the record? 

Solution: 

Coin placed at 4 cm from the centre 

Mass of each coin = m 

Radius of the disc, r = 15 cm = 0.15 m 

Frequency of revolution, ν =  33\(\frac 13\) rev/min = \(\frac {100}{3\times60} = \frac 59\) rev/s

Coefficient of friction, μ = 0.15 

In the given situation, the coin having a force of friction greater than or equal to the centripetal force provided by the rotation of the disc will revolve with the disc. If this is not the case, then the coin will slip from the disc. 

Coin placed at 4 cm: 

Radius of revolution, r' = 4 cm = 0.04 m 

Angular frequency, ω = 2πν  = 2 x \(\frac {22}{7} \times \frac 59\) = 3.49 s^-1

Frictional force, f = μmg = 0.15 × m × 10 = 1.5m N 

Centripetal force on the coin: 

F_cent. = mr' ω²

= m x 0.04 x (3.49)²

0.49m N 

Since f > F_cent , the coin will revolve along with the record. 

Coin placed at 14 cm: 

Radius, = 14 cm = 0.14 m

Angular frequency, ω = 3.49 s^–1 

Frictional force, f' = 1.5m N 

Centripetal force is given as: 

F_cent. = mr'' ω²

= m × 0.14 × (3.49)² 

= 1.7m N 

Since f < F_cent., the coin will slip from the surface of the record.

38. You may have seen in a circus a motorcyclist driving in vertical loops inside a ‘death well’ (a hollow spherical chamber with holes, so the spectators can watch from outside). Explain clearly why the motorcyclist does not drop down when he is at the uppermost point, with no support from below. What is the minimum speed required at the uppermost position to perform a vertical loop if the radius of the chamber is 25 m? 

Solution: 

In a death-well, a motorcyclist does not fall at the top point of a vertical loop because both the force of normal reaction and the weight of the motorcyclist act downward and are balanced by the centripetal force. This situation is shown in the following figure.

The net force acting on the motorcyclist is the sum of the normal force (FN) and the force due to gravity (F_g = mg).

 The equation of motion for the centripetal acceleration a_c, can be written as: 

F_net = ma_c

F_N + F_g = ma_c

F_N + mg = \(\frac {mv^2}{r}\) 

Normal reaction is provided by the speed of the motorcyclist. At the minimum speed (v_min), FN = 0

Answer 10

39. A 70 kg man stands in contact against the inner wall of a hollow cylindrical drum of radius 3 m rotating about its vertical axis with 200 rev/min. The coefficient of friction between the wall and his clothing is 0.15. What is the minimum rotational speed of the cylinder to enable the man to remain stuck to the wall (without falling) when the floor is suddenly removed? 

Solution:

Mass of the man, m = 70 kg 

Radius of the drum, r = 3 m 

Coefficient of friction, μ = 0.15 

Frequency of rotation, ν = 200 rev/min = 200/60 = 10/3 rev/s 

The necessary centripetal force required for the rotation of the man is provided by the normal force (F_N). 

When the floor revolves, the man sticks to the wall of the drum. Hence, the weight of the man (mg) acting downward is balanced by the frictional force (f = μF_N) acting upward. 

Hence, the man will not fall until: 

mg < f mg < μF_N 

= μmrω² g < μrω²

ω > \(\sqrt{\frac {g}{μr}}\)

The minimum angular speed is given as:

40. A thin circular loop of radius R rotates about its vertical diameter with an angular frequency ω. Show that a small bead on the wire loop remains at its lowermost point for ≤ \(\sqrt{g/R}\). What is the angle made by the radius vector joining the centre to the bead with the vertical downward direction for = \(\sqrt{2g/R}\)? Neglect friction. 

Solution: 

Let the radius vector joining the bead with the centre make an angle θ, with the vertical downward direction.

OP = R = Radius of the circle 

N = Normal reaction 

The respective vertical and horizontal equations of forces can be written as: 

Mg = Ncosθ ………….. (i) 

mlω² = Nsinθ ………... (ii) 

In ΔOPQ, we have:

sin θ = \(\frac lR\)

l = Rsinθ ……………………… (iii) 

Substituting equation (iii) in equation (ii), we get: 

m(Rsinθ) ω² = Nsinθ 

mR ω² = N ………..................(iv) 

Substituting equation (iv) in equation (i), we get: 

mg = mR ω² cosθ

cosθ = \(\frac {g}{Rω^2}\) .....(v)

Since cosθ ≤ 1, the bead will remain at its lowermost point for \(\frac {g}{Rω^2}\) ≤ 1, i.e., for ≤ \(\sqrt{\frac {g}{R}}\)

For ω = \(\sqrt{\frac {2g}{R}}\) or ω² = \(\frac {2g}{R}\) ......(vi)

On equating equations (v) and (vi), we get:

\(\frac {2g}{R}\) = \(\frac {g}{Rcos\theta}\)

cosθ = \(\frac 12\) 

∴ θ  = cos-1 (0.5) = 60°