| Exam Board | Edexcel |
|---|---|
| Module | M2 (Mechanics 2) |
| Year | 2010 |
| Session | June |
| Paper | Download PDF ↗ |
| Mark scheme | Download PDF ↗ |
| Topic | Motion on a slope |
| Type | Energy methods on slope |
| Difficulty | Moderate -0.3 This is a standard M2 mechanics problem using the work-energy principle on an inclined plane. Part (a) requires straightforward application of energy conservation (PE lost = KE gained + work against friction), and part (b) uses the friction work formula with the normal reaction. While it involves multiple steps and careful setup, it follows a well-practiced template with no novel problem-solving required, making it slightly easier than average. |
| Spec | 3.03v Motion on rough surface: including inclined planes6.02a Work done: concept and definition6.02b Calculate work: constant force, resolved component |
A particle $P$ of mass 0.6 kg is released from rest and slides down a line of greatest slope of a rough plane. The plane is inclined at 30° to the horizontal. When $P$ has moved 12 m, its speed is 4 m s$^{-1}$. Given that friction is the only non-gravitational resistive force acting on $P$, find
\begin{enumerate}[label=(\alph*)]
\item the work done against friction as the speed of $P$ increases from 0 m s$^{-1}$ to 4 m s$^{-1}$,
(4)
\item the coefficient of friction between the particle and the plane.
(4)
\end{enumerate}
\hfill \mbox{\textit{Edexcel M2 2010 Q2}}