Newton’s Laws of Motion

Science originates by observing nature and making inferences from them followed by devising
and doing experiments to verify or refute theories. The three laws of motion discovered by Newton
govern the motion of every object in nature all the time but due to the presence of friction and air
resistance, they are a little difficult to see.

Newton’s first law is stated as:

“In the absence of external forces, an object at rest remains at rest and an object in motion
continues in motion with a constant velocity (that is, with a constant speed in a straight line)”.
Though this is not what we observe everyday. A ball rolling on the floor eventually stops, faster
on a sandy floor as compared to a marble floor. This is due to the force of friction present between
the ball and the floor. An opposing force in the direction opposite to that of its velocity slows the
ball down and eventually brings it to rest. If the ball were rolling on a frictionless floor(ideal case),
it would never stop in the absence of external forces.

Newton’s second law states:

The acceleration of an object is directly proportional to the net force acting on it and
inversely proportional to its mass.
∑F = ma
This law is a little easier to observe as compared to the first law. You can throw a lighter shot put
farther than a heavier one even if you put all your energy (or force) in both the cases. This
happens because the lighter one gets more acceleration as compared to the heavier one and it is
able to cover more distance before falling down. Though there are a lot of other factors like angle
of throwing, air drag, etc. which govern the distance covered by the shot put before landing but
assuming those factors to be equivalent in both the throws, this should give you some insight that
Newton’s second law holds.
Newton’s third law states:
If two objects interact, the force F exerted by object 1 on object 2 is equal in magnitude to
12

and opposite in direction to the force F exerted by object 2 on object 1:

21

F = -F
12 21

This law can be understood by considering the following example. When you hit a football with
a barefoot, the foot hurts less if you hit it softly and it hurts more if you hit it with greater
strength. Thus, the football exerts as much force on your foot as you hit it with. Now, there can
be a confusion regarding this rule when you think of all the bodies that the earth is attracting with
its force of gravitation. What about the force they exert back on the earth? This is very true,
anything that the earth attracts towards itself also attracts the earth towards themselves with a
force equal to the magnitude of g (acceleration due to gravity), but the mass of earth is so large
as compared to the magnitude of force applied that it effectively remains at rest whereas the body
accelerates towards it and falls on the surface of the earth.

Free body diagrams

While solving any problem on Newton’s laws of motion, we make use of free body diagrams. In
these diagrams we represent all the external forces acting on the object and then apply newton’s
second law to find its acceleration and other parameters.
If the system to be analyzed involves more than one object, then their free body diagrams are
drawn separately and then solved.

While drawing the free body diagram, you must include all the external forces on an object
including any reactions which are not mentioned in the problem but are to be deduced using
Newton’s third law of motion.

Friction

The force of friction is something you encounter all the time, so it’s the easiest to understand.
The force of friction is very interesting in that its magnitude changes upto a maximum value
depending on the external force applied on the object. Suppose you try to push a heavy box in
order to slide it to another location. You start pushing it with a little force initially and you keep
increasing the force until it starts to slide. Below that value of force, the box remains at rest
whatever be the force applied on it by you. The free body diagram of the box looks like
For the box to remain in equilibrium, the force of friction must always be equal to the force
applied by you. Hence, it concludes that the force of friction (till the box doesn’t move) equals
the applied force until it reaches a maximum after which it remains constant.
Thus, frictional force opposes (impending or actual) relative motion between two surfaces in
contact. Static friction f opposes impending relative motion; kinetic friction f opposes actual
s k

relative motion. They are independent of the area of contact and satisfy the following
approximate laws :
 f ≤ (f ) = μ R
s s max s

f = μR
k k

μ (co-efficient of static friction) and μ (co-efficient of kinetic friction) are constants

s k

characteristic of the pair of surfaces in contact. It is found experimentally that μ is slightly less
k

than μ . It is found experimentally that the force of friction is independent of area of contact
s

between the bodies as can be seen from the expressions for the force also.
Static Friction
Static friction is a self-adjusting force up to its limit μ N (f ≤ μ N). You should not put f = μ N
s s s s s

without being sure that the maximum value of static friction is coming into play.
Kinetic Friction
Frictional force that opposes relative motion between surfaces in contact is called kinetic or
sliding friction.

Important Points:
1) In all the problems on Newton’s Laws of motion, proceed by drawing the free
body diagrams for each object in the system separately and then solving for the
unknown.
2) The physics (and probably the difficult part) in these problems is to recognize
the constraints that bind the different parts of the system like the two objects have
to move with the same acceleration or the object cannot lose contact with the
surface of the incline, so the sum of forces on the object perpendicular to surface
has to be zero. Rest is mathematics and comes easy after practicing a few
problems. Once you master this ability, you can solve any problem on this topic.
3) A string has same tension in it at all points. Each infinitesimal part of the string
has the same tension trying to pull it apart in opposite directions.

Problems:
1) A mass of 5 kg is suspended by a rope of length 2 m from the ceiling. A force of 45 N in the
horizontal direction is applied at the midpoint R of the rope, as shown. What is the angle the rope
makes with the vertical in equilibrium? (Take g = 10 ms ). Neglect the mass of the rope.
-2

Solution: We begin by drawing the free body diagram of the mass to find T . 2

As the mass is in equilibrium, the sum of all the external forces on it should be zero.
Therefore, T = 50 N
2

Next, we draw the free body diagram of the point R.

Since, point P is also in equilibrium, the sum of all the forces at this point must be zero.
That is, T Cosθ = 45 N
1

and T Sinθ = 50 N
1

Therefore, tanθ = (50/45), θ = 48 o

2) A mass of 3 kg rests on a horizontal plane. The plane is gradually inclined until at an angle θ
= 20° with the horizontal, the mass just begins to slide. What is the coefficient of static friction
between the block and the surface?

Solution: Again we begin by drawing a figure containing all the forces acting on the mass.
Now, instead of drawing another free body diagram, we should be able to see it in this figure
itself.
An important thing to keep in mind here is that we have resolved the force of gravity into its
components and we must not consider mg during calculations if we are taking its components
into account.
Now, as θ increases, the self-adjusting frictional force f increases until at θ = θ , f achieves its
s max s

maximum value, (fs)max = μsN.

Therefore, tanθmax = μs or θmax = tan–1μs
When θ becomes just a little more than θ , there is a small net force on the block and it begins to
max

slide.
Hence, for θ = 20°,
max

μ = tan 20° = 0.36

s

3) A small block B is placed is placed on another block A of mass 7 kg and length 15 cm.
Initially the block B is near the right end of block A. A constant horizontal force of 10 N is
applied to the block A. All the surfaces are assumed frictionless. Find the time elapsed before the
block B separates from A.
Solution: As there is no friction between A and B, when the block A moves, block B remains
at rest in its position.
Now, acceleration of block A = 10/7 = 1.4 ms -2

As the block starts from rest, initial velocity, u = 0

We know that s = ut + ½ at 2

0.15 = 0 + 0.7t2

which gives t = 0.46 s

4) A ball of mass 5 kg and a block of mass 12 kg are attached by a lightweight cord that passes
over a frictionless pulley of negligible mass as shown in the figure. The block lies on a
frictionless incline of angle 30 . Find the magnitude of the acceleration of the two objects and the
o

tension in the cord. Take g = 10 ms .

-2

Solution:
As the objects are connected by a cord (which we assume does not stretch), their accelerations
have the same magnitude. Let us draw the free body diagrams for the two objects.
Now, we know that the block never loses contact with the surface of the incline. Hence, in the
direction perpendicular to the surface the sum of forces on the block must be zero.
Therefore, normal force, n = 120Cos30 = 60√3 = 104 N
Also, 120Sin30 – T = ma = 12a
Therefore, a = (60-T)/12

Now, for the ball also, T – 50 = 5a (as both the objects have same acceleration)
Putting the value of a from the above equation, we get
T- 50 = 5(60-T)/12
i.e. 17T = 900
i.e. T = 52.94 N
Substituting the value of T in T – 50 = 5a, we get
a = 0.59 ms ≈ 0.6 ms
-2 -2

Note that here we chose the x axis for the incline along the surface of the incline and the y axis
perpendicular to the surface of the incline. Such choices for the axes should be made which make
the problem easier to solve. It would have been a tedious problem if we had stick to the
conventional choice for the axes.

5) Two blocks of masses 5 kg and 7 kg are placed in contact with each other on a frictionless
horizontal surface. A constant horizontal force 20 N is applied to the block of mass 7 kg.
(a) Determine the magnitude of the acceleration of the two-block system.

(b) Determine the magnitude of the contact force between the two blocks.
Solution: We know that the blocks remain in contact from our everyday experience.
Now, given that the force of 20 N is the only force acting on the system in the horizontal
direction and we know that the blocks move together as one, we can assume the system to be a
mass of 12 kg in order to solve part (a).
Therefore, acceleration, a = 20/12 = 1.67 ms .
-2

To solve part (b) we draw the free body diagrams of both the blocks.
Applying Newton’s second law to the block of mass 5 kg gives
∑F = P = 5a = 5 X 1.67 = 8.33 N
x

Now, to verify the value of P obtained apply Newton’s second law to the block of mass 7 kg,
∑F = 20 – P = 11.67 N
x

which gives a = 11.67/7 = 1.67 ms . -2

Hence, verified.

6) A block of mass 5 kg starts to slide down a frictionless plane having an inclination of 25.0°
from rest at the top. The length of the incline is 2.00 m, find (a) the acceleration of the block and
(b) its speed when it reaches the bottom of the incline. Take g = 10 ms .-2

Solution: We begin by drawing the free body diagram of the block.

(a) Applying Newton’s second law of motion along the surface of the incline, we get
50 sin25 = 5a
Therefore, a = 4.23 ms -2

(b) We know that v = u + 2as

2 2

Since u = 0 (given that the block starts from rest)

Therefore, v = 2 X 4.23 X 2
2

which gives v = 4.1 m/s

7) A 75.0 kg man stands on a platform scale in an elevator. Starting from rest, the elevator
ascends, attaining its maximum speed of 1.20 m/s in 1.00 s. It travels with this constant speed for
the next 10.00 s. The elevator then undergoes a uniform acceleration in the negative y direction
for 1.70 s and comes to rest. What does the scale register
(a) before the elevator starts to move?
(b) during the first 1.00 s?
(c) while the elevator is traveling at constant speed?
(d) during the time it is slowing down? Take g = 10 ms .-2

Solution: The scale registers the force applied by it on the man i.e. the normal force. We
proceed by drawing the free body diagram for the person.

(a) Before the elevator starts to move, the man is in equilibrium. Hence the sum of all forces on
him must be zero.
Therefore, N = 750 N
Hence, the scale registers 750 N before the elevator starts to move.

(b) The man accelerates with the elevator at the same acceleration.
Applying Newton’s second law in the vertical direction, we get
∑F = 750 – N = 75a = 75 X 1.2
y

which gives N = 660 N

Hence, the spring scale registers 660 N for the first 1 s.

(c) While the elevator is travelling at constant speed, the acceleration of the man is zero.
Therefore, the forces applied on him must add up to zero.
which implies N = 750 N

(d) The maximum speed of the elevator, v = u + at

u = 0 (as the elevator starts from rest)
Therefore, v = 1.2 X 1 = 1.2 m/s
It then comes to rest in 1.7 s after decelerating uniformly.
i.e. 0 = 1.2 + a’t = 1.2 + a’ X 1.7
which gives a’ = -0.7 ms -2

Now, applying Newton’s second law in the vertical plane, we get,

∑F = 750 – N = 75a = 75 X (-0.7)
y

which gives N = 802.5 N

 8) A block of mass 2.50 kg is accelerated across a rough
surface by a rope passing over a pulley, as shown in figure. The tension in the rope is 12.0 N, and
the pulley is 10.0 cm above the top of the block. The coefficient of kinetic friction is 0.300. (a)
Determine the acceleration of the block when x = 0.400 m. (b) Find the value of x at which the
acceleration becomes zero. Take g = 10 ms .-2

Solution: To determine the acceleration of the block, we need to know all the forces acting on

it.
At x = 0.4 m, cosθ = 40/41.23 = 0.97
Sinθ = 0.24
Since, T = 12 N, Tcosθ = 11.64 N
Tsinθ = 2.9 N
Applying Newton’s second law in the vertical direction, we get
∑F = 25 – N – 2.9 = 0 (as the block does not lose contact with the floor and hence its
y

acceleration is zero in this direction)

which gives N = 23.9 N

Therefore, Force of friction, f = μ X 23.9 = .3 X 23.9 = 7.17 N

k k

Now, applying Newton’s second law in the horizontal direction, we get

∑F = 11.64 – 7.17 = ma = 2.5a
x

which gives a = 1.8 ms .

-2

(b) The acceleration becomes zero when Tcosθ equals frictional force
i.e. Tcosθ = μ X (25 – Tsinθ)
k

12cosθ = 0.3 X (25 – 12sinθ)

12cosθ + 3.6sinθ = 7.5
Sinαcosθ + cosαsinθ = 7.5/12.53
Where sinα = 12/12.53 and cosα = 3.6/12.53
So, sin(α + θ) = 0.6
i.e. α + θ = 36.7
o

Also, sin(α + θ) = 10x2+102 = 0.6

Solving, we get x = 13.33 m

9) A block is given an initial velocity of 5.00 m/s up a frictionless 20.0° incline. How far up the
incline does the block slide before coming to rest? Take g = 10 ms .-2

Solution:
Initial velocity of the block, u = 5 m/s

The free body diagram of the block looks like

Therefore, the force acting on the block in its direction of motion is mg sinθ = mg sin20
Hence, a = -gsin20 taking positive x in the direction of motion
We know, that v = u + 2as
2 2

Therefore, 0 = 25 + 2 X (-g sin20) X s

which gives s = 3.7 m
Hence, the block comes to rest after travelling 3.7 m up the incline.

10) Two blocks of mass 5 kg and 9 kg are connected by a

string of negligible mass that passes over a frictionless pulley. The inclines are frictionless. Find
(a) the magnitude of the acceleration of each block and (b) the tension in the string. Take g = 10
ms .
-2
Solution: Let the tension in the string be T and the acceleration of the blocks be ‘a’.
Both the blocks being connected by the string move with same acceleration. The heavier block
slides downwards ad the lighter block slides upwards the incline.
Applying Newton’s second law to both the blocks,
T – 50sin35 = 5a (for 5 kg mass)
90sin35 – T = 9a (for 9 kg mass)
Solving the two equations we get,
a = 10sin35 = 5.7 N
Therefore, T = 57 N

11) In figure blocks A and B have masses 40 kg and 20 kg respectively. (a) Determine the
minimum weight of block C to keep A from sliding if the coefficient of friction, μ between A
s

and the table is 0.18. Block C is suddenly lifted off A. (b) What is the acceleration of block A if

μ between A and the table is 0.15. Take g = 10 ms .

k
-2

Solution: (a) Let the minimum weight of block C to keep A from sliding be m.
If block A doesn’t slide, block B also remains in equilibrium, as they are connected by a string.
Therefore, tension in the string, T = 200 N

Now, considering the free body diagram of system A and C

Applying Newton’s second law in x direction, we have
f =T=μ XN
s s

i.e. 200 = 0.18 X (400 + mg)

m = 71.1 kg

(b) If block is lifted off suddenly, the normal force becomes

N = 400 N
And as the block stars sliding, the kinetic friction, f = μ X 400 = 0.15 X 400 = 60 N
k k

Therefore the acceleration of the block, a = (200-60)/40 = 3.5 ms .

-2

12) Two masses 5 kg and 7 kg situated on a frictionless, horizontal surface are connected by a
light string. A force of 50 N is exerted on one of the masses to the right. Determine the
acceleration of the system and the tension T in the string.

Solution: The only external force acting on the system is 50 N in the x axis. As the blocks
don’t lose contact with the floor the normal force is balanced by their weight for both the blocks.
We could treat the system as one block of 12 kg as we can see that both the blocks have to have
the same acceleration.
Therefore, 50 = 12a
which gives a = 4.17 ms .
-2

To find the tension T in the string, let us draw the free body diagrams for the two blocks

Applying Newton’s second law on block of mass 5 kg, we get

T = 5a = 5 X 4.17 = 20.8 N
To verify, apply Newton’s second law on block of mass 7 kg, which gives
50 – T = 7 X 4.17
T = 20.8 N
Hence verified.
13) A block of mass m = 5 kg on a frictionless horizontal table is connected to a block of mass
1

m = 3 kg by means of a very light pulley P and a light fixed pulley P as shown in figure. If a
2 1 2 1

and a are the accelerations of m and m , respectively, (a) what is the relationship between these
2 1 2

accelerations? Find (b) the tensions in the strings and (c) the accelerations a and a . Take g = 10
1 2

ms . -2

Solution: Let the tensions in the strings of P and P be T and T respectively.

1 2 1 2

For part (a), you need to visualize the problem carefully. Since the pulley P and mass m = 3 kg
1 2

are connected by a string, their accelerations have to be the same as they have to move together.
Now if the pulley goes forward a distance x, the mass m has to move forward by 2x in order for
1

the string to not break, x for both the sides (upper and lower) of the string, which implies that the
mass m will have to move with twice the acceleration as that of m .
1 2

Hence, a = 2a . 1 2

(b) Drawing the free body diagram of block m , and applying Newton’s second law, we get
2
30 – T = 3 X a …(1) 2 2

Now, since the pulley P is massless, the sum of forces acting on it must be zero otherwise it will
1

have infinite acceleration which cannot happen without destroying the system. Hence,
2T = T 1 2

Now for mass m we have 1

T = 5 X a = 10a
1 1 2

or T /2 = 10a …(2)
2 2

Solving equations (1) and (2);

a = 1.3 ms
2
-2

Therefore, a = 2.6 ms 1
-2

Using this value of a , we get 2

T = 13 N
1

and T = 26 N 2

14) A block A of mass 0.5 kg can slide on a frictionless incline of angle 30 and length 0.8 m
o

kept inside an elevator going up with uniform velocity 2m/s. Find the time taken by the block to
slide down the length of the incline if it is released from the top of the incline. Take g = 10 ms .
-2
 S
Solution: The driving force on the block which causes it to move down the plane is
F = mgsin30 = 2.5 N
So, acceleration = 2.5/0.5 = 5 ms -2

Initial velocity of block u = 0

s = 0.8 m
Now, we that s = ut + ½ at 2

0.8 = 0 + 2.5t
2

which gives t = 0.57 s

15) The elevator shown is descending with a constant acceleration of 1.5 ms . The mass of the
-2

block A is 1 kg. What force is exerted by block A on block B? Take g = 10 ms . -2

Solution: The acceleration of the two blocks is the same as that of the elevator as they do not

lose contact with the floor of the elevator. The free body diagram of the block A is
Applying Newton’s second law of motion, we have,
10 – N = 1.5
which gives N = 6.67 N
Now, from Newton’s third law of motion, the force exerted by block A on block B = N = 6.67 N

16) A block of mass 5.00 kg is pushed up against a wall by a force P that makes a 50.0° angle
with the horizontal as shown in the figure. The coefficient of static friction between the block
and the wall is 0.30. Determine the possible values for the magnitude of F that allow the block to
remain stationary. Take g = 10 ms .
-2

Solution: We draw the free body diagram of the block. In this problem the direction of friction
can be upwards or downwards depending on the magnitude of F. Lets take friction downwards
case first.
Applying Newton’s second law in x direction, we get
F cos55 = N …(1)
Applying Newton’s second law in y direction, we get
Fsin55 = (μ X N) + mg = (0.3 X N) + 50 …(2)
s

Dividing equation (2) by (1), we get

Ntan55 = 0.3N + 50
1.13N = 50
Normal force,N = 44.3 N

Using this value of N, we get

F = 77.3 N
which means for any value of F more than 77.3 N, the block will start sliding upwards.

Now to find the minimum value of F, lets consider the friction upwards case.

Applying Newton’s second law in x direction, we get

F cos55 = N …(1)
Applying Newton’s second law in y direction, we get
Fsin55 + (μ X N) = mg
s

0.82F + (0.3 X N) = 50 …(2)

Putting N from equation (2) in (2), we get

0.82F + 0.17F = 50
F = 50.44 N
which is the minimum value of F below which the block starts sliding downwards.
17) Consider the three connected objects shown in figure. If the inclined plane is frictionless and
the system is in equilibrium, find (in terms of m, g, and θ (a) the mass M and (b) the tensions T 1

and T . If the value of M is double the value found in part (a), find (c) the acceleration of each
2

object, and (d) the tensions T and T .

1 2

Solution: (a) For the ball to be in equilibrium,

T = Mg …(1)
2

Similarly, for the mass m to be in equilibrium, we must have

T = T + mgsinθ …(2)
2 1

Again, for mass 2m to be in equilibrium, we must have

T = 2mgsinθ …(3)
1

Putting the expression for T in equation (2)

1

T = 3mgsinθ
2

Putting this in equation (1)

M = 3msinθ

(b) Now, if the value of M is twice i.e. 6msinθ

From figure, we see that the magnitude of acceleration of each object has to be same (say a) as
they are all connected by strings.
Applying Newton’s second law on the ball, we have
6mgsinθ – T = 6msinθ X a …(4)
2

Applying Newton’s second law on the mass m, we have

T – T – mgsinθ = ma …(5)
2 1

Applying Newton’s second law on the mass 2m, we have

T – 2mgsinθ = 2ma …(6)
2

Solving equations (4) and (6) simultaneously, we get

4mgsinθ = 6masinθ + 2ma
a = 2gsinθ/(3sinθ+1) …(7)
Putting (7) in (6), we get T2 = 6mgsinθ ( 1+sinθ1+3sinθ )
From equation (5), we get T1 = 3mgsinθ ( 1+sinθ1+3sinθ )

18) In the above problem, if the coefficient of static friction between m and 2m and the inclined
plane is μ , and the system is in equilibrium, find (a) the minimum value of M and (b) the
s

maximum value of M.
Solution: (a) When the value of M is minimum, the masses have a tendency to slide down the
incline if M were made infinitesimally smaller than its value.
Hence, friction will be upwards at the minimum value of M.
So, For the ball to be in equilibrium,
T = Mg …(1)
2

Similarly, for the mass m to be in equilibrium, we have

T + μ mgcosθ= T + mgsinθ …(2)
2 s 1

Again, for mass 2m to be in equilibrium, we have

T + 2μ mgcosθ = 2mgsinθ …(3)
1 s

Putting the expression for T from (3) in equation (2);

1

T = 3mgsinθ - 3μ mgcosθ
2 s

Putting this in equation (1);

M = 3gsinθ - 3μ gcosθ
min s

(b) Again, when the value of M is maximum, the masses have a tendency to slide upwards if M
were made infinitesimally smaller than its value.
Hence, friction will be downwards at the minimum value of M.
Applying Newton’s second law to each mass, we have
T = Mg …(4)
2 (for the ball)
T = T + mgsinθ + μ mgcosθ …(5)
2 1 s (for mass m)
T = 2mgsinθ+ 2μ mgcosθ …(6)
1 s (for mass 2m)
Putting the expression for T from equation (6) in equation (5);
1

T = 3mgsinθ + 3μ mgcosθ
2 s

Putting this in equation (1);

M = 3gsinθ + 3μ gcosθ
max s
19) A mass M = 16 kg is held in place by an applied force F and a pulley system as shown in
figure. The pulleys are massless and frictionless. Find (a) the tension in each section of rope, T1,
T2, T3, T4, and T5 and (b) the magnitude of F. Take g = 10 ms . -2

Solution: The free body diagram of the mass looks like

For the mass to be in equilibrium, T = 160 N 5

Now, the sum of forces across all pulleys should also be zero for them to be in equilibrium.
Therefore, T + T = T = 160 N …(1)
2 3 5

Again, for the fixed pulley, we have

T + T + T = T …(2)
1 2 3 4

Now, the string being pulled by force F has a tension of F in it everywhere for it to not break,
i.e. T = F …(3)
1

Also from the figure, it can be seen that T , T and T are tensions at different parts of the same
1 2 3

string. One part of a string cannot accelerate w.r.t. another part of the same string because it will

break and the system will collapse.

Therefore, T = T = T ...(4)
1 2 3

From equation (1), we get

T = T = 80 N
2 3

From (4); T = 80 N
1

From (2); T = 240 N

4

Hence, F = 80 N from equation (3).

20) What horizontal force must be applied to the cart shown in figure so that the blocks remain
stationary relative to the cart? Assume all surfaces, wheels, and pulley are frictionless.
Solution: Let the system have an acceleration ‘a’ when the masses are in equilibrium w.r.t.
the cart.
Hence, we can assume the system be one object of mass M+m +m moving with an acceleration
1 2

of ‘a’.
Therefore, F = (M+m +m )a …(1)
1 2

Now, considering, the free body diagrams of the two blocks,

The only force acting on mass m that accelerates it in the x direction is the push from the cart
2

denoted by P,
Therefore, P = m a …(2)
2

Also, the tension in the string, T = m g …(3)

2

as the blocks are stationary w.r.t. the cart i.e. they have no acceleration in the vertical direction.
The mass m is given its acceleration by the tension in the string;
1

i.e. T = m a …(4) 1

Solving (3) and (4);

a = m g/m …(5)
2 1

Now, applying Newton’s second law on the cart, we have

F – P = Ma
Using equations (2) and (5), we get
F = ( M+m2m1 )m g 2

21) In figure blocks of mass m = 3 kg and m = 4 kg are connected by a string of negligible

1 2

mass and are initially held in place. The heavier block is on a frictionless surface tilted at 30 .
o

The coefficient of kinetic friction between block of mass 3 kg and the horizontal surface is 0.3.
The pulley has negligible mass and friction. Once they are released, the blocks move. What then
is the tension in the string? Take g = 10 ms . -2

Solution: Note that since no static friction coefficient is mentioned, we assume f is not relevant
s

to this computation i.e. the blocks are already moving with acceleration ‘a’. Let the tension in
the string be T.
Applying Newton's second law to each block's x axis, which for m is positive rightward and for
1

m is positive downhill:
2

T– f =ma
k 1 (for mass 3 kg) …(1)
m g sinθ – T = m a
2 2 ( for mass 4 kg) …(2)
Adding the equations, we obtain the acceleration:
a = m2gsinθ- fkm1+m2
Now, f = μ N = μ m g = 0.3 X 3 X 10 = 9 N
k k k 1

Therefore, a = (40sin30 – 9)/7 = 1.57 ms . -2

Putting this value in equation (1), we get

T = 13.7 N.

22) A block slides with constant velocity down an inclined plane that has slope angle θ. The
block is then projected up the same plane with an initial speed u. (a) How far up the plane will it
move before coming to rest? (b) After the block comes to rest, will it slide down the plane again?

Solution: The free-body diagram of the block when it is sliding downhill with zero

acceleration looks like

Applying Newton’s second law gives
N = mg cosθ …(1)
f = mg sinθ = μ X N …(2)
k k

Dividing equation (2) by (1);

μ = tanθ
k

Now when the block is projected uphill the friction direction is reversed. Let its acceleration be

‘a’.
Again applying Newton’s second law gives
mgsinθ + f = mgsinθ + μ N = ma …(3)
k k

mgcosθ – N = 0 (as the block doesn’t lose contact with the surface of the incline ever)

We can see that the acceleration is downhill, and therefore, the speed of the block will decrease
as it moves up the incline.

(a) Putting μ = tanθ and N = mgcosθ in equation (3);

k
a = 2gsinθ downwards the incline.
The distance travelled by the block before coming to a stop can be obtained by using the
equation v = u + 2as
2 2

0 = u + 4sgsinθ
2

which gives s = u /4gsinθ 2

(b) We usually expect μ to be less than μ . The “angle of repose” (the minimum angle necessary
k s

for a stationary block to start sliding downhill) is

N = mg cosθ …(1)repose

f = mg sinθ = μ X N …(2)
s repose s

Dividing equation (2) by (1);

μ = tanθ
s repose

but in this problem we found that μ = tanθ. k

Therefore, θ should be greater than θ as μ > μ . Consequently, when the block comes to rest,
repose s k

the incline is not steep enough to cause it to start slipping down the incline again.

23) A block of mass m = 4.0 kg is put on top of a block of mass m = 5.0 kg. To cause the top
1 2

block to slip on the bottom one while the bottom one is held fixed, a horizontal force of at least
12 N must be applied to the top block. The assembly of blocks is now placed on a horizontal,
frictionless table. Find the magnitudes of (a) the maximum horizontal force that can be applied to
the lower block so that the blocks will move together and (b) the resulting acceleration of the
blocks. Take g = 10 ms . -2

Solution: When the force applied is at a maximum, the frictional force between the two blocks
must also be a maximum. Since F = 12 N of force has to be applied to the top block for slipping
to take place, using
F = f = μ X N = μ X mg = 12, we have
s s s

μ = 12/40 = 0.3, the coefficient of static friction between the two blocks.
s
Now, we’re interested in the maximum force that can be applied on the bottom block such that
the two will move together. If we pull the bottom block too hard, the top block will slip on the
bottom one. The free-body diagrams for the two blocks are:

Now, applying Newton’s second law to both the blocks, we have;

f = m a = 4a
s 1 (for mass m1)
F – f = m a = 5a
s 2 (for mass m2)
When F is maximum, f will also be maximum i.e. equal to 12 N
s

Therefore, a = 3 ms -2

and F = 27 N
24) Find the acceleration of block of mass in the figure shown. All the surfaces are frictionless
and the pulleys and the string are light.
Solution: Let the tension in the string be T. From figure, we can see that the acceleration of
block of mass M has to be 2a.
The free body diagrams of the blocks look

like
Applying Newton’s second law on the blocks, we have,
T - Mg sin30 = 2Ma (for mass m)
2Mg-2T = 2Ma (for mass 2M)
Solving the two equations, we get
T = 5Mg/6
and hence a = g/6
Therefore, acceleration of mass M is g/6 up the plane.

25) Find the acceleration of the 5 kg block in figure. Take g = 10 ms

-2

Solution: Let the tensions in the strings be denoted by T and T for strings carrying m and m
1 2 1 3

respectively. We begin by drawing the free body diagrams for each block,
Applying Newton’s second law to each block, we have,
50 – T = 5a
1 …(1) (for mass m1)
T – T – 10 sin30 = 1a
1 2 …(2) (for mass m2)
T - 25 = 2.5a
2 …(3) (for mass m3)
From equations (2) and (3);
T = 30 + 3.5a
1

Putting in (1), we get,

a = 20/8.5 = 2.35 ms .
-2

26) In the given figure, suppose m = 2.5 kg and m = 3 kg. What should be the mass m so that it
2 3 1

remains at rest? Take g = 10 ms .

-2
Solution: Let the tensions in the strings be T and T carrying masses m and m respectively.
1 2 1 2

The free body diagrams of the masses are

For the mass m to be at rest, T = m g …(1)

1 1 1

For the sum of forces across the pulley 2 carrying masses m and m to be zero, we have
2 3

2T = T …(2)
2 1

Let the acceleration of mass m be ‘a’. Applying Newton’s second law, we have
2

T – 25 = 2.5a …(3)
2

Applying Newton’s second law on mass m , we have

3

30 - T = 3a …(4)
2

Solving equations (3) and (4), we get

a = 0.91 ms -2

T = 27.3 N
2

Putting in (2), we get

T = 54.6 N
1

Putting in (1), we get

m = 5.5 kg
1
27) A constant force F = m g/3 is applied on the mass m as shown in figure. The pulley and the
2 1

string are light and the surface of the table is smooth. Find the acceleration of m . 1

Solution: Let the acceleration of mass m be ‘a’. The acceleration of mass m is also ‘a’.
1 2

Their free body diagrams are

Applying Newton’s second law on both the blocks,
T – m g/3 = m a
2 1 (for mass m ) 1

mg– T =ma
2 2 (for mass m ) 2

Solving the two equations, we get

m g – m g/3 - m a = m a
2 2 1 2

a(m + m ) = 2m g/3
1 2 2

Therefore, a = 2m2g/3(m1 + m2)

28) Block 1 of mass m = 2.0 kg and block 2 of mass m = 1.0 kg are connected by a string of
1 2

negligible mass. Block 2 is pushed by force of magnitude 25 N and angle θ = 35°.The coefficient
of kinetic friction between each block and the horizontal surface is 0.25. What is the tension in
the string? Take g = 10 ms . -2

Solution: Let the acceleration of the two blocks be ‘a’ and the tension in the string be ‘T’.
Applying Newton’s second law on mass m , we get 2

Fcosθ – μ X N – T = m a
k x-axis 2

m g + Fsinθ = N
2 y-axis
Solving the two equations, we get
m a = Fcosθ - μ (m g + Fsinθ) – T
2 k 2

a = 0.82F – 2.5 – 0.14F - T ….(1)

Similarly, applying Newton’s second law on mass m , we get
1

T-μ X N=ma
k 1 x-axis
N =mg 1 y-axis
Solving the two equations, we get
ma=T-μ mg
1 k 1

2a = T – 5 ….(2)

Solving (1) and (2), we get;

T = 11.33 N
a =3.17 ms -2

Q:29 The two blocks shown in figure are not attached to each other. The coefficient of static
friction between the blocks is μ = 0.35, but the surface beneath the larger block is frictionless.
s

What is the minimum magnitude of the horizontal force required to keep the smaller block from
slipping down the larger block? Take g = 10 ms .-2

Solution: Let the contact force between the two blocks be ‘P’. The free body diagrams of the

two blocks are

Let the acceleration of the system be ‘a’ in the +ve x-direction. Applying Newton’s second law
on the two blocks as a system, we have
F = (15 + 85)a
or a = F/100 …(1)
Now, analyzing the blocks individually, for the small block, we have
F – P = 15a …(2)
f = μ X P = 150 N
s s

which gives P = 428.6 N

Similarly, for the large block,
N + f = 850
s

N = 700 N (using f = 150 N)

s

P = 85a …(3)
428.6 = 85a
which gives a ≈ 5.04 ms . -2

Putting in (1);
F = 504 N
Q:30 Find the mass of the hanging block in figure which will prevent the smaller block from
slipping over the triangular block. All the surfaces are frictionless and the strings and the pulley
are light.
Solution: Let the acceleration of the triangular block be ‘a’ towards the right. Then block of
mass ‘M’ has acceleration ‘a’ downwards and the mass ‘m’ has acceleration ‘a’ towards the right
as no slipping occurs.
We begin by drawing the free body diagram for each block,
From the free body diagram of mass ‘M’, we have
Mg - T = Ma …(1)
From the free body diagram of mass ‘m’, we have
Nsin(90-θ) = mg
or Ncosθ = mg …(2)
and Ncos(90-θ) = Nsinθ = ma
or gtanθ = a …(3) [using (2)]
Similarly, from the free body diagram of triangular bock, we have
T - Ncos(90-θ) = M’a
or T - Nsinθ = M’a …(4)
Putting (1), (2) and (3) in (4);
Mg - Mgtanθ - mgtanθ = M’gtanθ
or M = (M’ + m)tanθ/(1- tanθ)
or M = (M’ + m)/(cotθ - 1)