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Edexcel A-Level Physics Two-Dimensional Momentum

Practise Edexcel A-Level Physics two-dimensional momentum by applying conservation laws with vector triangles, scaled diagrams and components.

Syllabus
Pearson Edexcel International Advanced Subsidiary/Advanced Level
Course
Physics XPH11/YPH11
Level
A2

Exam points

  • draw scaled vector diagrams to test momentum conservation in two-dimensional collisions
  • resolve momentum into components and use Pythagoras to find a final velocity or angle
  • justify a collision conclusion from whether the momentum vectors complete a triangle

4.3.83 - Momentum conservation in two dimensions question 1

[Maximum number: 6]

Some asteroids pass very close to the Earth. Scientists are planning methods to deflect asteroids, to prevent them hitting the Earth.

One method would involve colliding a spacecraft into the surface of the asteroid, to change the path and speed of the asteroid. The spacecraft would remain joined to the asteroid after the collision.

Question (a)

(a)

This collision method is modelled for a spacecraft travelling in a direction at 90∘90^{\circ} to the path of the asteroid.

Sketch a labelled vector diagram to show the momenta of the bodies before and after the collision.

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Question (b)

(b)

Show that this collision method causes the asteroid to change its direction through an angle of about 10−710^{-7} radian.

Momentum of asteroid = 7.6×1013 N s7.6\times10^{13}\,\mathrm{N\,s}

[ 2 ]

Question (c)

(c)

After the collision, the asteroid and spacecraft remain joined and move together.

Calculate the component of their velocity at 90° to the original path of the asteroid after the collision.
mass of asteroid = 2.8 × 10⁹ kg

Component of velocity =

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