| Exam Board | SPS |
|---|---|
| Module | SPS FM Mechanics (SPS FM Mechanics) |
| Year | 2021 |
| Session | September |
| Marks | 8 |
| Topic | Motion on a slope |
| Type | Horizontal force on slope |
| Difficulty | Standard +0.3 This is a two-part mechanics question involving limiting equilibrium and forces on an inclined plane. Part (a) is a standard textbook exercise requiring resolution of forces and μ = tan(30°). Part (b) requires resolving forces with an additional horizontal force, finding net force and acceleration, then using kinematics—all routine techniques for FM mechanics students. The 8 total marks reflect straightforward application of standard methods rather than any novel problem-solving. |
| Spec | 3.03m Equilibrium: sum of resolved forces = 03.03t Coefficient of friction: F <= mu*R model3.03v Motion on rough surface: including inclined planes |
In this question use $g = 10 \text{ m s}^{-2}$.
A particle of mass 3 kg rests in limiting equilibrium on a rough plane inclined at $30°$ to the horizontal.
\begin{enumerate}[label=(\alph*)]
\item Find the exact value of the coefficient of friction between the particle and the plane. [2]
\end{enumerate}
A horizontal force of 36 N is now applied to the particle.
\begin{enumerate}[label=(\alph*)]
\setcounter{enumi}{1}
\item Find how far down the plane the particle travels after the force has been applied for 4 s. [6]
\end{enumerate}
\hfill \mbox{\textit{SPS SPS FM Mechanics 2021 Q5 [8]}}