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Edexcel IAL Mathematics M1.3 straight-line kinematics

Straight-line kinematics questions usually turn on choosing the right model: suvat for constant acceleration, graph gradients for acceleration and areas for distance.

Syllabus
First assessment 2019
Course
Mathematics YMA01
Level
AS

Exam points

  • Choose a suvat equation for time, speed, height or displacement in vertical motion.
  • Use speed-time graph gradients for acceleration and areas for distance travelled.
  • Equate displacement expressions when two particles meet or one vehicle catches another.

Covered syllabus points

M1.3.1 - Constant-acceleration motion in a straight line

M1.3 - Kinematics of a particle moving in a straight line question 1

[Maximum number: 5]
Figure 3

Figure 3

A particle A of mass 4 kg is held at rest on a rough horizontal table. Particle A is attached to one end of a string that passes over a pulley P. The pulley is fixed the the of the table. The other end of the string is attached to a particle B, of mass 3 kg, which hangs freely below P.

The part of the string from A to P is perpendicular to the edge of the table and A, P and B all lie in the same vertical plane.

The string is modelled as being light and inextensible and the pulley is modelled as being small, smooth and light.

The system is released from rest with the string taut. At the instant of release, A is 2 m from the edge of the table and B is 1.4 m above a horizontal floor, as shown in Figure 3.

After descending with constant acceleration for 2 seconds, B hits the floor and does not rebound.

Determine, by calculation, whether or not⁡A\operatorname{not} A reaches the pulley.

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