AP PHYSICS 1 Scoring Guide

：Momentum（
Topic Questions： （MCQ）
）

1.

Object travels across a horizontal surface and collides with object . The velocity as a function of time for object
and object before, during, and after the collision is shown in the graph. Both objects have a mass of .
Which of the following correctly describes the momentum of the system and the kinetic energy of the
system?

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(A)

Conserved Conserved

(B)

Conserved Not conserved

(C)

Not conserved Conserved

(D)

Not conserved Not conserved

A student plans to conduct an experiment in which the momentum of a two-object system can be determined immediately
before and after a collision takes place. The student slides block at an unknown constant speed toward an identical
block, block , that is initially at rest, as shown in the figure. There is negligible friction between the blocks and the
surface.

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2.
Momentum of Momentum of Momentum of Momentum of
Trial Block Before Block Before Block After Block After
Number
Collision Collision Collision Collision

The student uses the data collected from the experiment to create the data table. Which of the following statements
is true regarding the data?
The momentum of the two-block system is conserved because the initial momentum of block is
(A)
experimentally consistent for all trials.
The momentum of the two-block system is conserved because the final momentum of block is
(B)
experimentally consistent for all trials.
The momentum of the two-block system is not conserved because the initial momentum of the system is
(C)
not equal to the final momentum of the system.
The level of error associated with the data is too high to make a conclusion regarding the momentum of
(D)
the individual blocks and the system.

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3.

The student conducts a second experiment in which the magnitude of the force exerted on block from block is
measured over the time in which the collision takes place. A graph of the force as a function of time is shown. In a
third experiment, the student creates a collision such that the force exerted on block from block is constant for
. Which of the following constant forces, if exerted on block from block , would produce the same
change in momentum as is shown by the graph?
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

4. Which of the following choices lists the measuring tools necessary to determine the initial momentum of the system
before the collision takes place?
(A) Mass balance
(B) Mass balance and meterstick
(C) Mass balance, meterstick, and stopwatch
(D) Mass balance, meterstick, stopwatch, and force probe

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5.

A cart of mass travels along a horizontal, frictionless surface. A net force is applied to the cart. A graph of the
net force applied to the cart as a function of time is shown. The initial and final direction of the cart and the
direction of the net force exerted on the cart is unknown. The distance of one grid unit represents a change in
velocity of . Which of the following diagrams could represent the direction and relative magnitude of the
velocity of the cart before the force is applied and after the force is applied? Select two answers.

(A)

(B)

(C)

(D)

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Two objects of the same mass travel in the same direction along a horizontal surface. Object has a speed of and
object has a speed of , as shown in the figure. After a period of time, object collides with object .

6. Consider the situation in which the objects collide but do not stick together. Which of the following predictions is
true about the center of mass of the two-object system immediately after the collision?
(A) The center of mass does not move.
(B) The velocity of the center of mass does not change.
(C) The velocity of the center of mass decreases in speed.
(D) The velocity of the center of mass increases in speed.

7. Consider the situation in which the objects collide and stick together. Which of the following predictions is true
about the center of mass of the two-object system immediately after the collision?
(A) The center of mass does not move.
(B) The velocity of the center of mass does not change.
(C) The velocity of the center of mass decreases in speed.
(D) The velocity of the center of mass increases in speed.

8. Consider the situation in which object has a speed of and object has a speed of after the
collision takes place. After the collision, both objects travel in the same direction. Which of the following
predictions must be true about how the momentum of the two-object system and the kinetic energy of the
two-object system change from before the collision to after the collision?

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：Momentum（
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(A)

Remains constant Remains constant

(B)

Remains constant Decreases

(C)

Decreases Remains constant

(D)

Decreases Decreases

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9.

Block slides along a horizontal surface with a speed toward block that is initially at rest, as shown in
Figure 1. After block collides with block , the two blocks remain stuck together and travel at a velocity of ,
as shown in Figure 2. Frictional forces are considered to be negligible. Which of the following claims is correct
regarding the momentum of the system containing only block and the system that contains block and block ?
(A) The system containing block is an open system, and the system of both blocks is an open system.
(B) The system containing block is an open system, and the system of both blocks is a closed system.
(C) The system containing block is a closed system, and the system of both blocks is an open system.
(D) The system containing block is a closed system, and the system of both blocks is a closed system.

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10.

Figure 1. Before the Collision

Figure 2. After the Collision

Block of mass travels in the positive direction with a speed toward block of mass that is at rest, as
shown in Figure 1. After the collision, block travels with a speed of in the positive direction while block
remains at rest. The horizontal surface that the blocks slide across is considered to be smooth. How can a student
determine whether the collision is elastic or inelastic?
The student only needs to observe that the blocks do not stick together after the collision, which means
(A)
that the collision is elastic.
The masses of both blocks are known, and the initial and final velocities are both blocks are known.
(B) Therefore, the student must compare the initial momentum of the two-block system before the collision
and after the collision using .
The masses of both blocks are known, and the initial and final velocities are both blocks are known. The
(C) student should use for either block or block to determine how much the block’s
momentum has changed.
The masses of both blocks are known, and the initial and final velocities are both blocks are known.
(D) Therefore, the student must compare the initial kinetic energy of the two-block system before the
collision and after the collision using .

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Topic Questions： （MCQ）
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11.

A block of known mass is at rest at the base of a ramp. A second identical block of mass travels at a known,
constant velocity , as shown in Figure 1. The block that travels at a constant speed collides with and sticks to the
first block. Both blocks slide up the ramp and travel with an unknown velocity at the top of the ramp, as shown
in Figure 2. All frictional forces are considered to be negligible. Which quantity should the student measure, if any,
to determine whether the conservation of momentum applies to the two-block system from immediately before the
collision to immediately after the blocks have reached the top of the ramp while stuck together? Justify your
selection.
The force due to gravity exerted on both blocks as they travel up the ramp, because the force due to
(A)
gravity does work on the system as it travels up the ramp.
The time in which the blocks travel up the ramp, because this can be used to determine the change in
(B)
momentum of the system from before the collision to after the collision.
The acceleration of both blocks as they travel up the ramp, because this can be used to determine the
(C)
average net force exerted on the blocks.
The velocity of the two-block system at the top of the ramp, because this can be used to determine
(D)
the final momentum of the system.

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Topic Questions： （MCQ）
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12.

Objects and are constrained to move along a straight line. The graphs above show the net force exerted along
that line on each of the objects as functions of time. Which of the following correctly ranks the change in
momentum of the objects?
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D) The ranking cannot be determined without knowing the masses of the objects.

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13.

Figure 1

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Figure 2. Data for block

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Figure 3. Data for block

A student performs an experiment in which two blocks, block of mass and block of mass , are tied
together by a rope. The system containing Block and Block is dropped above Earth’s surface in the orientation
shown in Figure 1. A motion detector below each block collected data that were graphed to show the velocity as a
function of time for Blocks and as they fell toward the ground. The graphs are shown in Figure 2 and Figure 3,
respectively. The positive direction is considered to be down. The change in momentum for the system containing
block and block is most nearly
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

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：Momentum（
Topic Questions： （MCQ）
）

14.

A student performs an experiment in which a object travels across a horizontal surface with an initial speed
velocity of and a object travels across a horizontal surface with an initial speed velocity of .
The objects travel toward each other and collide. Data collected from the experiment were used to create the
velocity versus time graph shown that contains information about both objects before and after the collision. The
positive direction is considered to be to the right. Which of the following statements are true regarding the data from
the experiment?
(A) Both objects always travel in the positive direction during the experiment.
(B) Kinetic energy is conserved during the experiment.
(C) The position of the center of mass of the system remains constant during the experiment.
(D) The velocity of the center of mass of the two-object system remains constant during the experiment.

15.
Mass of Mass of Velocity of Velocity of Average Force Average Force Time of
Trial
Object Object Object Before Object Before Exerted on Object Exerted on Object Collision
Number
( ) ( ) Collision ( ) Collision ( ) by Object ( ) by Object ( ) ( )

In an experiment, two objects, object and object , travel toward each other and collide. Data are collected about
each object before, during, and after the collision, as shown in the table. Which of the following pairs of data, when
used together to create two graphs, could verify the conservation of momentum? Select two answers.

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Average force exerted on object by object and time of collision, because these measurements can
(A)
be used to determine the change in momentum of object .
Average force exerted on object by object and time of collision, because these measurements can
(B)
be used to determine the change in momentum of object .
Mass of object and velocity of object before collision, because these measurements can be used to
(C)
determine the initial momentum of object .
Mass of object and velocity of object before collision, because these measurements can be used to
(D)
determine the initial momentum of object .

16.
Cart 1 Cart 2 Velocity of Cart 1 Velocity of Cart 2 Velocity of Cart 1 Velocity of Cart 2
Mass Mass Immediately Before Immediately Before Immediately After Immediately After
Collision Collision Collision Collision

A group of students conducts an experiment in which two carts collide with each other as they travel across a
horizontal surface with negligible friction. Using motion detectors and a mass balance, the students collect data
about the carts immediately before and immediately after the collision, as shown in the table. Which of the
following claims is true regarding the momentum and the kinetic energy of the two-cart system for the experiment?
Does the data indicate that a net external force acts on the system?
The momentum is the same and the total kinetic energy of the system is the same immediately before the
(A) collision and immediately after the collision. This indicates that a net external force is not exerted on the
system.
The momentum is different and the total kinetic energy of the system is the same immediately before the
(B) collision and immediately after the collision. This indicates that a net external force is exerted on the
system.
The momentum is the same and the total kinetic energy of the system is different immediately before the
(C) collision and immediately after the collision. This indicates that a net external force is not exerted on the
system.
The momentum is different and the total kinetic energy of the system is different immediately before the
(D) collision and immediately after the collision. This indicates that a net external force is exerted on the
system.

17.
Time Magnitude of the Applied Force

A object travels in the positive direction across a horizontal surface with a constant speed of . A force
is exerted on the object for , and the force increases linearly with respect to time. The table shows data about the
magnitude of the applied force exerted on the object at different times. The force is exerted on the object in the
opposite direction of the object’s displacement. What is the change in momentum of the object?

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(A) in the positive direction

(B) in the negative direction
(C) in the positive direction
(D) in the negative direction

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18.

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A dart of mass is launched straight upward toward a block of mass that hangs at rest from a string, as shown
in Figure 1. Immediately before the dart collides with the block, the dart has a speed . The dart then collides with
and sticks to the block, and the dart-block system travels upward to a height before the system comes to rest, as
shown in Figure 2. What is the change in momentum of the dart-block system immediately before the collision to
the instant when the system comes to rest?
(A) Zero
(B)
(C)
(D)

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Block of mass is at rest at the top of a ramp, and the block’s center of mass is at a height above the ground.
Block is then released from rest, and it slides down the ramp and collides with block of mass , which is initially
at rest and has its center of mass at a height above the ground. At the moment before the collision, block has a speed
of . After the collision, block travels such that it lands at point .

19. Consider the block -block system from the moment in time that block is released from rest to the moment
immediately after block collides with block . Which of the following claims best describes the system?
(A) Because the total momentum of the system does not remain constant, the system is open.
(B) Because the total kinetic energy of the system does not remain constant, the system is open.
(C) Because the total momentum of the system remains constant, the system is closed.
(D) Because the total kinetic energy of the system remains constant, the system is closed.

20. Consider the scenario in which block is released from rest at a height , which is lower than but higher
than . Which of the following statements is true about the horizontal distance traveled by block as a projectile in
the two scenarios? Assume the collision in both scenarios is elastic.
(A) The horizontal distance will be greater for block when block is released from height .
(B) The horizontal distance will be greater for block when block is released from height .
(C) The horizontal distance will be the same for block in both scenarios.
(D) The answer cannot be determined without knowing the exact height of and .

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21. An object of known mass with speed travels toward a wall. The object collides with it and bounces away
from the wall in the opposite direction in which the object was initially traveling. The wall exerts an average force
on the object during the collision. A student must use the equation to determine the change in
momentum of the object from immediately before the collision to immediately after the collision. Which side of the
equation could the student use to determine the change of the object's momentum?
(A) , because the mass of the object and the initial speed of the object are known.
(B) , because the average force exerted on the object during the collision is known.
Either side of the equation may be used because the mass of the object, the initial speed of the object,
(C)
and the average force exerted on the object during the collision are known.
Neither side of the equation may be used because there are too many unknown quantities before, during,
(D)
and after the collision.

22. In an experiment, an object is released from rest near and above Earth’s surface. A student must determine the
relationship between the direction of the gravitational force exerted on the object and the change in momentum
caused by that force. What data could the student collect to determine the magnitude and direction of the
gravitational force and the change in momentum of the object? Justify your choices. Select two answers.
The mass of the object, because it is required to determine the force due to gravity exerted on the object,
(A) and the velocity of the object the instant before it reaches Earth’s surface, because it is required to
determine the change in velocity of the object.
The mass of the object, because it is required to determine the force due to gravity exerted on the object,
(B)
and the distance fallen by the object, because the force is exerted during the entire falling distance.
The velocity of the object the instant before it reaches Earth’s surface, because it is required to
(C) determine the change in velocity of the object, and the acceleration of the object, because it is required
to determine the force due to gravity exerted on the object.
The distance fallen by the object, because the force is exerted during the entire falling distance, and the
(D) acceleration of the object, because it is required to determine the force due to gravity exerted on the
object.

23. A student must analyze data collected from an experiment in which a block of mass traveling with a speed
collides with a block of mass that is initially at rest. After the collision, the two blocks stick together. Which of
the following applications of the equation for the conservation of momentum represent the initial and final
momentum of the system for a completely inelastic collision between the blocks? Justify your selection. Select two
answers.
(A) , because the blocks stick together after the collision.

(B) , because the blocks stick together after the collision.

(C) , because the blocks stick together after the collision.

(D) , because the blocks do not stick together after the collision.

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24.

A student conducts an experiment in which an object travels across a horizontal surface while for a net force is
applied to a object that initially travels with a speed of . Data collected from the experiment are used
to create the graph of the magnitude of the applied force exerted on the object as a function of time is shown. All
frictional forces are considered to be negligible. Can the student use the graph and the known data to determine the
momentum of the object after the force has been applied?
Yes, because the average force exerted on the object can be used with the time interval of to
(A)
determine the change in momentum of the object by using .
Yes, because the area bound by the best-fit line and the horizontal axis from to can be used to
(B)
determine the change in momentum of the object.
(C) No, because the data is too scattered to determine the average force that is exerted on the object.
No, because the student needs to know the direction that the force is applied to the object because the
(D)
applied force will be in the same direction as the change in momentum of the object.

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25.

Cart with a mass of travels at a constant speed of to the right on a horizontal surface, as shown in
the figure. Cart then collides with cart with a mass of that is initially at rest. The force exerted on
cart by cart as a function of time is shown in the graph, where is the instant of initial contact
between the carts. As a result of the collision, cart moves to the right with a speed of . All frictional forces
are considered to be negligible. A student must determine the final speed and direction of cart and considers
using the following equations.

Equation 1:

Equation 2:

Identify and justify which equation or equations the student can use.
Only equation 1, because the momentum lost by cart is gained by cart . This change in momentum
(A)
can be determined using the graph.
Only equation 2, because the force is exerted only on cart , so there is no information about the force
(B)
exerted on cart .
Equation 1 and equation 2, because the system is closed and all quantities are known except for the final
(C)
speed of cart .
(D) Neither equation, because there are too many unknown quantities.

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26.

An object of mass collides with an object of mass that is at rest, as shown in the figure. A graph of the
force as a function of time that the object exerts on the object is shown. After the collision, the
object has a speed of , and the object has a speed of . A student must determine the initial speed
of the object. Which of the following options shows the correct substitutions into the equation
so that the initial speed of the unknown object can be determined?
, because the maximum force exerted on the
(A)
object must be considered.
, because the average force exerted on the
(B)
object must be considered.
, because the difference in mass and the
(C)
maximum force exerted on the object must be considered.
, because the difference in mass and the
(D)
average force exerted on the object must be considered.

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27.

A force probe is used to push a box across a smooth surface, as shown in the figure. Frictional forces are considered
to be negligible. The force probe collects data about the force exerted on the box as a function of time. The data are
used to create the graph that is shown. During which time interval does the box experience the greatest change in its
momentum?
(A) to
(B) to
(C) to
(D) The change in momentum is the same for each interval of time.

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28.

A object travels across a horizontal surface with a constant speed of . An applied force that increases
with time is then exerted on the object. A graph of the force exerted on the object as a function of time is shown.
The applied force is in the direction of the object’s displacement. All frictional forces are considered to be
negligible. What is the object’s speed after the force has been applied for ?
(A)

(B)

(C)
(D)

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29.

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Two identical spheres of known mass are attached to opposite ends of a rod of negligible mass. The mass-rod-
mass system is spun in the vertical plane and then released so the system falls downward as it rotates, as shown in
the figure. Data are collected and shown in the graph of the vertical velocity, , of the two spheres as a function of
time . The positive direction is considered to be downward. A student uses the graph to make three claims.
Claim 1: Change in linear momentum of the center of mass of the system from to can be determined.
Claim 2: The average applied force exerted on the center of mass of the system from to can be
determined.
Claim 3: The change in the kinetic energy of the system from to can be determined.
Which of the student's claims are correct?
(A) Claim 1 and claim 2 only
(B) Claim 1 and claim 3 only
(C) Claim 2 and claim 3 only
(D) Claim 1, claim 2, and claim 3

30. Ball of mass and ball of mass travel toward each other on a horizontal surface. Both balls
travel with a constant speed of until they collide. During the collision, ball exerts an average force with a
magnitude of for on ball . Which of the following best predicts ball momentum after the collision?
(A) Ball will travel at a speed less than in the same direction of travel as before the collision.
(B) Ball will travel at a speed less than in the opposite direction of travel as before the collision.
Ball will travel at a speed greater than in the opposite direction of travel as before the
(C)
collision.
(D) Ball motion cannot be predicted because the impulse on it is not known.

31.

Object of mass travels to the right with a velocity . Object of mass moves to the left at , as
shown in the figure. The objects collide and then stick together. What is the change in kinetic energy of the two-
object system from immediately before the collision to immediately after the collision?
(A) The kinetic energy increases by .
(B) The kinetic energy increases by .
(C) The kinetic energy decreases by .

(D) The kinetic energy decreases by .

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Scenario Number Final Velocity of Cart Final Velocity of Cart

Cart of mass travels along a horizontal surface with a constant speed in the positive horizontal direction. Cart
then collides with cart of mass , which was initially at rest. After the collision, cart has a positive velocity.
Immediately after the collision, cart and cart could have one of three final velocities that are indicated in the table. In
all scenarios, the total momentum of the two-cart system is the same before and after the collision.

32.

Assume that the collision in each scenario is elastic. A graph of the magnitude of the force exerted on Cart as a
function of time for scenario 1 is shown. During which interval of time does the magnitude of the momentum of
Cart change the most?
(A) to
(B) to
(C) to
(D) The change in momentum is the same for each time interval listed.

33. Assume that the collision in each scenario is elastic. How does the magnitude of the change in the momentum
of Object compare for each scenario?

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(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

34.

Graphs , , and that are shown represent momentum versus time graphs for three possible cases in which a
collision could occur between two carts. Which of the momentum versus time graphs are possible representations of
one of the three scenarios if the system is closed?
(A) Graphs and only
(B) Graphs and only
(C) Graphs and only
(D) Graphs , , and

35.
Velocity of Object Velocity of Object Velocity of Object Velocity of Object
Before Collision Before Collision After Collision After Collision

Object of mass travels toward object of mass in such a way that they collide. The table contains data
about the velocities of object and object immediately before the collision and immediately after the collision.
What are the change in momentum of the two-object system and the change in momentum of each object from
immediately before the collision to immediately after the collision?

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Change in Momentum of Change in Momentum of Change in Momentum of

(A) the System Object Object

Zero

Change in Momentum of Change in Momentum of Change in Momentum of

(B) the System Object Object

Zero

Change in Momentum of Change in Momentum of Change in Momentum of

(C) the System Object Object

Change in Momentum of Change in Momentum of Change in Momentum of

(D) the System Object Object

Zero Zero Zero

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36.

Block of mass and block of unknown mass travel toward each other. An elastic collision occurs in which
momentum is conserved. The graph shows the velocity of block and of velocity of block as a function of time
before, during, and after the collision. What is the mass of block ?
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

37. A student drops an object from rest above a force plate that records information about the force exerted on the
object as a function of time during the time interval in which the object is in contact with the force plate. Which of
the following measurements should the student take, in addition to the measurements from the force plate, to
determine the change in momentum of the object from immediately before the collision to immediately after the
collision?
(A) The mass of the object
(B) The final speed of the object
(C) The distance fallen by the object
(D) The student has enough information to make the determination.

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38.

Trial Initial Velocity of Initial Velocity of Final Velocity of Final Velocity of

Number Cart Cart Cart Cart

A student must conduct an experiment to verify the conservation of momentum for a closed two-cart system. Cart
and cart travel toward each other and eventually collide, as shown in the figure. Data collected from the
experiment are shown in the table. What additional measuring tool should the student have used in order to verify
the conservation of momentum?
(A) Force sensor
(B) Meterstick
(C) Stopwatch
(D) Balance

39. A student must determine a nonzero change in momentum of an object for a specific interval of time. Which of the
following experiments could the student conduct? Select two answers.
Drop a ball of known mass above a motion detector, and record the final speed of the ball before it
(A)
reaches the motion sensor.
Drop a coffee filter of known mass from a known height above a motion sensor, and record the terminal
(B)
speed of the coffee filter as it falls.
Pull a block of known mass across a rough surface with a spring such that the block travels at a constant
(C) speed for as measured by a stopwatch. Record the force necessary to pull the block at a constant
speed.
Give a block of known mass an initial velocity so that it slides across a rough surface in front of a
(D) motion detector, slows down, and eventually stops. Use the motion detector to record the initial velocity
of the block.

40. A student must conduct an experiment in which a block is pulled across a horizontal surface by a spring scale so
that a nonzero change in momentum of the block can be determined for a specific time interval. The student also has
access to measuring tools that are found in a typical physics laboratory. Which of the following experiments could
the student conduct to determine the change in momentum of the cart? Select two answers.

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Attach the spring scale to the block, and pull the block at a constant speed as it travels across the
(A) horizontal surface. Record the force that the spring scale exerts on the block. Use a stopwatch to
determine the time that the block is in motion.
Attach the spring scale to the block, and pull the block so that its speed increases as it travels across the
(B) horizontal surface. Record the force that the spring scale exerts on the block. Use a stopwatch to
determine the time that the block is in motion.
Attach the spring scale to the block, and pull the block so that its speed increases as it travels across the
(C) horizontal surface. Use the motion detector to record the speed of the block at the beginning of the time
interval and at the end of the time interval. Use a mass balance to measure the mass of the block.
Attach the spring scale to the block, and pull the block so that its speed increases as it travels across the
horizontal surface. Use the motion detector to record the speed of the block at the beginning of the time
(D)
interval and at the end of the time interval. Use a meterstick to measure the distance traveled by the
block in the given time interval.

41.
Experiment Mass of Object Magnitude of Net Time that Force Is Initial Velocity Final Velocity
Number Force Applied

An object is used in three different experiments so that a student can analyze the motion of the object when a net
force is exerted on it. The data obtained from the three experiments are shown in the table. How can the student use
the data to determine the relationship between the object’s change in momentum and the direction of the net force
exerted on the object?
Observe that the magnitude of the net force and the amount of time that the force is applied remain the
(A) same in each experiment. Therefore, the net force changes the momentum of the object in the same
direction for all experiments.
Observe that the magnitude of the net force, the amount of time that the force is applied, and the mass of
(B) the object remain the same in each experiment. Therefore, the net force changes the momentum of the
object in the same direction for all experiments.
Observe the direction of the velocity vectors for the initial and final velocity measurements for each
experiment. If the final velocity is negative, the net force changes the momentum in the opposite
(C)
direction of motion. If the final velocity is positive, the net force changes the momentum in the same
direction of motion.
The student can calculate the change in the velocity of the object for each experiment. If the object
decreases its speed or changes direction, the net force changes the momentum in the opposite direction
(D)
of motion. If the object increases its speed and travels in the same direction, the net force changes the
momentum in the same direction of motion.

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42.

Block and Block are tied together by a rope. The system containing Block and Block is dropped above
Earth’s surface in the orientation shown in the figure. Block has a larger mass than Block . Which of the
following claims is correct regarding the momentum of the system containing only Block and the system that
contains Block and Block ?
(A) The system containing Block is an open system, and the system of both blocks is an open system.
(B) The system containing Block is an open system, and the system of both blocks is a closed system.
(C) The system containing Block is a closed system, and the system of both blocks is an open system.
(D) The system containing Block is a closed system, and the system of both blocks is a closed system.

43. An object of mass travels in the positive direction with a speed of . The object collides with a second
object that exerts an average net force over an interval of time such that the object comes to rest. Which of the
following best predicts the change in momentum for the object?

(A) The change in momentum is in the negative direction.

(B) The change in momentum is in the positive direction.
(C) The change in momentum is zero.
The direction of the change in momentum cannot be determined without knowing the value of the
(D)
average force and time in which the force is exerted.

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44.

A student conducts three experiments in which a cart of mass is pushed along a horizontal surface of negligible
friction for by an applied force. The graph shows the force as a function of time for each experiment. Which of
the following correctly ranks the greatest change in the cart’s momentum from to ?
(A) Experiment Experiment Experiment
(B) Experiment Experiment Experiment
(C) Experiment Experiment Experiment
(D) Experiment Experiment Experiment

45. A ball, of mass 1.0kg, is released from rest above a horizontal surface. The ball falls downward and collides with
the surface with a speed of . The average force exerted during the collision is over a time interval of
. Which of the following best predicts what will happen to the ball immediately after the collision?
(A) The ball will come to rest on the surface.
(B) The ball will bounce up from the surface with a speed lower than what it had before the collision.
(C) The ball will bounce up from the surface with the same speed as it had before the collision.
(D) The ball will bounce up from the surface with a speed greater than what it had before the collision.

46.

In the setup shown above, a student uses motion detector to measure the speed of a cart with mass before it
collides with and sticks to a stationary cart with mass . Motion detector measures the speed of the carts after
the collision. The student repeats the experiment several times using different values of and creates a graph of
as a function of . The slope of this graph is most nearly equal to

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(A)

(B)

(C)

(D)

47. Block of mass travels at a speed toward block of mass , which is initially at rest. After block
elastically collides with block , block has a speed of in the same direction as before the collision. What is
the speed of block immediately after the collision?
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

48.
Trial Mass of Mass of Initial Velocity of Initial Velocity of Final Velocity of Final Velocity of
Number Cart ( ) Cart ( ) Cart ( ) Cart ( ) Cart ( ) Cart ( )

An experiment is performed in which a collision occurs between cart and cart . Data are collected about each
cart before and after a collision takes place. Which data from the table should the student use to verify the
conservation of momentum for each trial, and what is a justification for using those data?
The initial and final velocity of cart and the initial and final velocity of cart , because the speeds
(A)
should be compared before and after the collision.
The mass of cart , the initial velocity of cart , and the final velocity of cart , because the
(B)
momentum of cart should be determined before and after the collision.
The mass of cart , the initial velocity of cart , and the final velocity of cart , because the
(C)
momentum of cart should be determined before and after the collision.
All data are necessary to verify the conservation of momentum, because all information for each cart
(D)
should be known.

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49.

In an experiment, a variable net force is applied to an object. A graph of the net force exerted on the object as a
function of time is shown. Which of the following experiments could have been conducted to represent the variable
net force shown in the graph?
(A) A object increases its speed from to .
(B) A object increases its speed from to .
(C) A object increases its speed from to .

(D) A object increases its speed from to .

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50.

In an experiment, a spring is placed between object and object . Object has twice the mass of object ,
which has mass . The two objects are pushed together until the spring is at its maximum compression, as shown
in the figure. The objects are released from rest, and data are collected for the speed of each object immediately
after the spring is no longer compressed. However, the graph does not indicate which object corresponds to a given
velocity, and the positive direction is not indicated. Which of the following correctly describes the velocities of
object and object after the collision?
(A) Object travels at and object travels at after the spring is no longer compressed.

(B) Object travels at and object travels at after the spring is no longer compressed.

(C) Either object can have either speed because the conservation of momentum will still be maintained.
Not enough information is given to match the objects to a specific speed after the spring is no longer
(D)
compressed.

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51.

A student conducts an experiment to verify that a collision is elastic. The two objects, object and object , travel
toward each other, as shown in the figure. The mass and the initial speed of both objects are known. Which of the
following equations should the student consider using to verify that the collision is elastic, and why?

Equation :

Equation :

Equation :
Equation only, because the change in momentum of object will be equal to the negative change of
(A)
momentum for object .
Equation only, because the conservation of momentum must be verified for the system of object
(B)
and object .
Equation and equation , because the change in momentum of object will be equal to the negative
(C) change of momentum for object , and the difference in the kinetic energy of the system before and
after the collision should be determined.
Equation and equation , because the conservation of momentum must be verified for the system of
(D) object and object , and the difference in the kinetic energy of the system before and after the
collision should be determined.

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52.

A student must conduct an experiment to verify the conservation of momentum for a closed two-cart system. Cart
and cart travel toward each other and eventually collide, as shown in the figure. The student has determined
the following procedure.

Step 1: Measure the mass of cart and cart with a balance.

Step 2: Use a motion sensor to record data of the velocity of each cart before, during, and after the collision.

Step 3: Use the data and to determine if the right-hand side of the equation is equal to the left-hand
side of the equation.

Which of the following steps should the student add to the procedure so that the conservation of momentum can be
experimentally verified?
(A) Conduct the experiment on a smooth, level surface.
(B) Attach adhesive strips to each cart so that they stick together after they collide.
(C) Ensure that the mass of each cart is the same.
(D) Ensure that the initial speed of each cart is the same.

53. Object of mass travels with a speed of toward object of mass that is initially at rest. Object
then collides with and sticks to object . After the collision, object and object remain stuck together. How
much mechanical energy is converted into nonmechanical energy during the collision?
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

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54.

On a straight horizontal track along which blocks can slide with negligible friction, block 1 slides toward block 2,
which is initially at rest. Block 1 collides with an electronic force probe attached to block 2, generating a force vs.
time graph and causing block 2 to start sliding. What additional measurements must be made to determine the
momentum of block 2 after the collision?
(A) None
(B) The mass of block 2 only
(C) The post-collision speed of block 2 only
(D) Both the mass and the post-collision speed of block 1

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55.

Two carts of masses and travel together, as shown in Figure . At time , a compressed spring
inside the cart expands, and the carts separate. Figure shows a graph of the carts’ velocities as a function of
time. What is the magnitude of the change in linear momentum, if any, of the two-cart system between and
?
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

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56. A projectile fired into the air explodes and splits into two halves of equal mass that hit the ground at the same time.
If the projectile had not exploded, it would have landed at point X, which is a distance R to the right of the launch
point. After the explosion, one of the halves lands at point Y, which is a distance 2R to the right of the launch point.
If air resistance is negligible, where did the other half land?
(A) To the left of the launch point
(B) At the launch point
(C) Between the launch point and point X
(D) Between points X and Y

57. How does an air mattress protect a stunt person landing on the ground after a stunt?
(A) It reduces the kinetic energy loss of the stunt person.
(B) It reduces the momentum change of the stunt person.
(C) It increases the momentum change of the stunt person.
(D) It shortens the stopping time of the stunt person and increases the force applied during the landing.
(E) It lengthens the stopping time of the stunt person and reduces the force applied during the landing.

58.

The two blocks of masses M and 2M shown above initially travel at the same speed v but in opposite directions.
They collide and stick together. How much mechanical energy is lost to other forms of energy during the collision?
(A) Zero
(B)
(C)

(D)

(E)

59. A object moving to the left collides with and sticks to a object moving to the right. Which of the
following is true of the motion of the combined objects immediately after the collision?
(A) They must be moving to the left.
(B) They must be moving to the right.
(C) They must be at rest.
(D) The motion cannot be determined without knowing the speeds of the objects before the collision.

60. A person applies an impulse of 5.0 kg∙m/s to a box in order to set it in motion. If the person is in contact with the
box for 0.25 s, what is the average force exerted by the person on the box?

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(A) 1.25 N
(B) 2.00 N
(C) 12.5 N
(D) 20.0 N
(E) 200 N

61.
Position Time

A block of mass , starting from rest, is pushed with a constant force across a horizontal track. The position of
the block as a function of time is recorded, and the data are shown in the table. What is the magnitude of the change
in momentum of the block between zero and seconds?
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

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A clay ball of mass is moving horizontally with speed just before colliding with a block of mass , as shown
above. The block is suspended from a light string with length . The clay sticks to the block, and the block swings up to a
maximum height above the block’s initial position (where ). The block then oscillates about its lowest
position with period .

62. Which of the following quantities is the same immediately after the collision and at the instant the block reaches
height ?
(A) Linear momentum of the clay-block system
(B) Angular momentum of the clay-block system about the top of the string
(C) Total mechanical energy of the clay-block system
(D) Total mechanical energy of the clay-block-Earth system

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63.

The graph above represents the position of two identical carts on a straight horizontal track as a function of time.
Which of the following statements about the magnitude of the momentum of the two-cart system’s center of mass,
, is true?
(A) is constant from to .
(B) is smaller after than it is before .
(C) is larger after than it is before .
(D) increases at a constant rate from to .

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64.

Sphere of mass and sphere of mass hang from light strings. Sphere is pulled back, as shown above,
and released from rest. Sphere has kinetic energy immediately before colliding with sphere . The two spheres
stick together and move horizontally for an instant after the collision. During the collision, what is the change in the
kinetic energy of the two-sphere system?
(A)
(B)
(C)

(D)

65. Two particles collide and stick together. If no external forces act on the two particles, which of the following is
correct for the change in total momentum Δp and the change in total kinetic energy ΔK of the two particles?
(A) Δp < 0; ΔK < 0
(B) Δp < 0; ΔK = 0

(C) Δp = 0; ΔK< 0

(D) Δp = 0; ΔK = 0
(E) Δp = 0; ΔK > 0

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66.

During an experiment a student records the net horizontal force exerted on an object moving in a straight line along
a horizontal frictionless track. The graph above shows the force as a function of time. Of the following, which is the
best approximation of the magnitude of the change in momentum of the object between 0 s and 4 s?
(A) 20 kg ⋅ m/s
(B) 30 kg ⋅ m/s
(C) 40 kg ⋅ m/s
The magnitude of the change in momentum cannot be determined without knowing the mass of the
(D)
object.

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67.

A student obtains data on the magnitude of force applied to an object as a function of time and displays the data on
the graph above.

Answer the following question for the information and diagram above.

The increase in the momentum of the object between t = 0 s and t = 4 s is most nearly
(A) 40 N·s
(B) 50 N·s

(C) 60 N·s

(D) 80 N·s
(E) 100 N·s

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68.

The graph above shows the position x as a function of time for the center of mass of a system of particles of total
mass 6.0 kg. For a very short time interval around 2.0 s, an external force is exerted on an object in the system.
What is the resulting change in momentum of the system?
(A) 52 kg•m/s
(B) 6 kg•m/s
(C) -6 kg•m/s
(D) -18 kg•m/s

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The graph above shows the potential energy of a system as one object in the system moves along the -axis and the rest
of the system does not move. Six evenly-spaced points along the -axis are labeled. At point , the object is moving in
the positive -direction and the mechanical energy of the system is . As the object moves, no energy enters or leaves
the system.

69. Which of the following describes the magnitude of the momentum of the object in the first two straight-line
segments shown in the graph as the object moves from point to point ?

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(A)

Zero Increasing

(B)

Zero Decreasing

(C)

Constant but nonzero Increasing

(D)

Constant but nonzero Decreasing

70. A 12 kg box sliding on a horizontal floor has an initial speed of 4.0 m/s. The coefficient of friction between the box
and the floor is 0.20. The box moves a distance of 4.0 m in 2.0 s. The magnitude of the change in momentum of the
box during this time is most nearly
(A) 12 kg⋅m/s
(B) 48 kg⋅m/s
(C) 60 kg⋅m/s
(D) 96 kg⋅m/s

71. A force of constant magnitude F and fixed direction acts on an object of mass m that is initially at rest. If the force
acts for a time interval ∆t over a displacement ∆x , what is the magnitude of the resultant change in the linear
momentum of the object?

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(A) F ∆t
(B) F ∆x
(C) F∆t / m
(D) F∆x / m
(E) mF ∆t

72.

Two identical objects, X and Y, move toward each other at different speeds on a horizontal surface with negligible
friction, as shown in the top figure. The objects then collide elastically and move away from each other. The kinetic
energy of object X as a function of time is shown in the graph. Which of the following is true of the speed of
object Y?
(A) after the collision is greater than it was before the collision.
(B) after the collision is equal to what it was before the collision.
(C) after the collision is less than it was before the collision.
after the collision cannot be compared to what it was before the collision without knowing the mass
(D)
of the objects.

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73.

A railroad car of mass m is moving with speed u when it collides with and connects to a second railroad car of mass
3m, initially at rest, as shown above. How do the speed and kinetic energy of the connected cars compare to those of
the single car of mass m before the collision?

Speed Kinetic Energy

(A)

Less Less

Speed Kinetic Energy

(B)

Less The same

Speed Kinetic Energy

(C)

The same Less

Speed Kinetic Energy

(D)

The same The same

Speed Kinetic Energy

(E)

Greater The same

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74. In trial 1 of an experiment, a cart moves with speed v0 on a frictionless, horizontal track and collides elastically with
another cart that is initially at rest. In trial 2, the setup is identical except that the carts stick together during the
collision. How does the speed of the two-cart system’s center of mass change, if at all, during the collision in each
trial?

Trial 1 Trial 2
(A)

Does not change Does not change

Trial 1 Trial 2
(B)

Does not change Decreases

Trial 1 Trial 2
(C)

Decreases Does not change

Trial 1 Trial 2
(D)

Decreases Decreases

75. Which of the following is true of the conservation of momentum and kinetic energy?
(A) Momentum is conserved only in elastic collisions.
(B) Momentum is conserved only in inelastic collisions.
(C) Kinetic energy is conserved only in elastic collisions.
(D) Kinetic energy is conserved only in inelastic collisions.
(E) Both require the same conditions in order to be conserved.

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Three objects can only move along a straight, level path. The graphs below show the position d of each of the objects
plotted as a function of time t.

76. The magnitude of the momentum of the object is increasing in which of the cases?
(A) II only
(B) III only
(C) I and II only
(D) I and III only
(E) I, II, and III

77.

The graph above shows the speed of a truck as it moves along a straight, level road. Which of the following describe
a method to determine the distance d the truck travels during the 10 s time interval shown? Select two answers.

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(A) Multiply the average speed of 18 m/s by the 10 s travel time.

(B) Multiply half the initial speed of 30 m / s by the 10 s travel time.
Calculate the slope of the line in the graph to determine the acceleration a and then use d = (1/2) ,
(C)
where t is the travel time.
(D) Calculate the area under the line in the graph.

78. A 2 kg object traveling at 5 m/s on a frictionless horizontal surface collides head-on with and sticks to a 3 kg object
initially at rest. Which of the following correctly identifies the change in total kinetic energy and the resulting speed
of the objects after the collision?

Kinetic Energy Speed

(A)
Increases 2 m/s

Kinetic Energy Speed

(B)

Increases 3.2 m/s

Kinetic Energy Speed

(C)

Decreases 2 m/s

Kinetic Energy Speed

(D)

Decreases 3.2 m/s

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79.

Two blocks are on a horizontal, frictionless surface. Block A is moving with an initial velocity of v0 toward block
B, which is stationary, as shown above. The two blocks collide, stick together, and move off with a velocity of v0/3
. Which block, if either, has the greater mass?
(A) Block A
(B) Block B
(C) Neither; their masses are the same.
(D) The answer cannot be determined without knowing the mass of one of the blocks.

80.

A 0.050 kg tennis ball is moving to the left at 10 m/s when it is hit by a tennis racket that is moving to the right. The
magnitude of the force exerted on the ball by the racket as a function of time is shown in the figure above. What is
the speed of the ball after the collision with the racket?

(A) 30 m/s
(B) 50 m/s
(C) 70 m/s
(D) 90 m/s

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81. An empty sled of mass M moves without friction across a frozen pond at speed v0. Two objects are dropped
vertically into the sled one at a time: first an object of mass m and then an object of mass 2m. Afterward the sled
moves with speed vf. What would be the final speed of the sled if the objects were dropped into it in reverse order?
(A) vf / 3
(B) vf / 2
(C) vf
(D) 2vf
(E) 3vf

Two identical spaceships are traveling in deep space, far from any planets or stars. The ships travel in the same direction,
with the slower one directly behind the faster one. The ships are connected by a cable attached to a spool, so that the part
of the cable outside the ships can be made longer or shorter as needed. The cable is used to bring the ships to the same
speed for a transfer of cargo. The graph above shows the speed of the two ships during a 10 s interval.

82. Does at least one of the ships have its engine turned on during the time interval shown, and what evidence indicates
so?
(A) Yes, because Ship 2 is speeding up.
(B) Yes, because the momentum of the two-rocket system increases.
(C) Yes, because an engine is needed to keep the system moving.
(D) No, because the cable alone could be responsible for making Ship 1 slow down and Ship 2 speed up.

83. Which of the following graphs best represents the net force Fnet exerted on the two-ship system?

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(A)

(B)

(C)

(D)

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84.

A cart of known mass moves with known speed along a level, frictionless track, as shown in the figure above. The
cart hits a force sensor and rebounds. The force sensor measures the force exerted on the cart as a function of time
and as a function of the position of the cart. The results will be graphed on the axes shown. Which of the two graphs
can be used to determine the cart’s speed after it rebounds?
(A) Only graph 1; graph 2 will have no information useful for finding the speed.
(B) Only graph 2; graph 1 will have no information useful for finding the speed.
(C) Either graph 1 or graph 2 can be used.
(D) Neither graph alone is sufficient; both graph 1 and graph 2 are needed.

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85.

A cart travels toward the right on a track where friction between the cart and track is negligible. The momentum of
the cart as a function of time is modeled in the graph. Which of the following statements are true for the time
recorded? Select two answers.
(A) The change in momentum of the cart is nearly equal to .

(B) The impulse delivered to the cart is nearly equal to .

(C) The net external force exerted on the cart is nearly equal to .
(D) The work done on the cart is nearly equal to .

86. Two identical carts are free to move along a straight frictionless track. At time t1, cart X is moving at 2.0 m/s when
it collides with and sticks to cart Y, which is initially at rest. Which of the following graphs best shows the velocity
of cart X before and after the collision?

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(A)

(B)

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(C)

(D)

A ball is dropped and bounces off the floor. Its speed is the same immediately before and immediately after the collision.

87. How does the height to which the ball bounces compare to the height from which it was dropped?

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(A) It is less.
(B) It is the same.
(C) It is greater.
(D) It cannot be determined without knowing the value of the height from which the ball was dropped.
(E) It cannot be determined without knowing the value of the ball’s speed as it hits the floor.

88. Which of the following is true about the collision between the ball and the floor?
(A) The ball’s momentum is conserved.
(B) The ball’s momentum changes direction but not magnitude.
(C) The ball’s momentum changes magnitude but not direction.
(D) The impulse delivered to the ball by the floor is zero.
(E) The impulse delivered to the floor by the ball is zero.

Refer to the following material for answering the questions.

Block 1 of mass m1 and block 2 of mass m2 are sliding along the same line on a horizontal frictionless surface when they
collide at time tc. The graph above shows the velocities of the blocks as a function of time.

89. How does the kinetic energy of the two-block system after the collision compare with its kinetic energy before the
collision, and why?

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It is less, because the blocks have the same velocity after the collision, so some of their kinetic energy
(A)
was transformed into internal energy.
It is less, because the blocks have velocities in opposite directions before the collision, so some of their
(B)
kinetic energy cancels.
It is the same, because the collision was instantaneous, so the effect of external forces during the
(C)
collision is negligible.
It is the same, because the blocks have the same velocity after the collision, and there is no friction
(D)
acting on them.

90. Which block has the greater mass, and what information indicates this?
(A) Block 1, because it had a greater speed before the collision.
Block 1, because the velocity after the collision is in the same direction as its velocity before the
(B)
collision.
(C) Block 2, because it had a smaller speed before the collision.
Block 2, because the final velocity is closer to the initial velocity of block 2 than it is to the initial
(D)
velocity of block 1.

91. Which of the following is true of the motion of the center of mass of the two-block system during the time shown?
The center of mass does not move because the blocks are moving in opposite directions before the
(A)
collision.
The center of mass moves at a constant velocity of +1.0 m/s because there is no friction acting on the
(B)
system.
The center-of-mass velocity starts out greater than +1.0 m/s but decreases to +1.0 m/s during the
(C)
collision because the collision is inelastic.
The center-of-mass velocity increases as the blocks get closer together, and then becomes constant after
(D)
the collision.

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92.

A block of mass slides on a frictionless, horizontal surface with a velocity of to the right, as shown
above, and collides with a block of mass that is at rest. As a result of the collision, the block comes to
rest. Which of the following correctly states whether the collision is elastic or inelastic and provides a valid
justification?
(A) Elastic, because the total momentum before the collision equals the total momentum after.
Elastic, because some of the initial kinetic energy is converted to other forms of energy but the total
(B)
energy is conserved.
(C) Inelastic, because the total momentum before the collision does not equal the total momentum after.
(D) Inelastic, because some of the initial kinetic energy is converted into nonmechanical energy.

93. A ball of mass 0.4 kg is initially at rest on the ground. It is kicked and leaves the kicker's foot with a speed of 5.0
m/s in a direction 60° above the horizontal. The magnitude of the impulse imparted by the ball to the foot is most
nearly

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(A) 1 N▪s
(B)

(C) 2 N▪s

(D)
(E) 4 N▪s

94.

An object is initially at rest. A varying force is applied to the object as shown in the graph. Which of the following
correctly explains the momentum of the object at time ?
The final momentum of the object is negative because the slope of the graph is negative the entire time
(A)
from to .
The final momentum of the object is positive because the maximum magnitude of the force in the
(B)
positive direction is twice the maximum magnitude of the force in the negative direction.
The final momentum of the object is negative because the magnitude of the area bounded by the graph
(C)
and the horizontal axis is less from to than from to .
The final momentum of the object is positive because the average magnitude of the force is higher from
(D)
to than the average magnitude of the force from to .

95. A 1.0 kg lump of clay is sliding to the right on a frictionless surface with speed 2 m/s . It collides head-on and sticks
to a 0.5 kg metal sphere that is sliding to the left with speed 4 m/s . What is the kinetic energy of the combined
objects after the collision?

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(A) 6J
(B) 4J
(C) 2J
(D) 0J

A system consists of two spheres, of mass m and 2m, connected by a rod of negligible mass, as shown above. The system
is held at its center of mass with the rod horizontal and released from rest near Earth’s surface at time t = 0 .

96.

The graph above shows the rate of change of linear momentum of the sphere of mass m as a function of time. What
is the linear momentum of the two-sphere system at time t = 3.0 s ?
(A) 5 kg⋅ m/s
(B) 15 kg⋅ m/s
(C) 45 kg⋅ m/s
(D) 60 kg⋅ m/s

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A block of mass 3 kg slides along a horizontal surface that has negligible friction except for one section, as shown above.
The block arrives at the rough section with a speed of 5 m/s and leaves it 0.5 s later with a speed of 3 m/s.

97. What is the magnitude of the average frictional force exerted on the block by the rough section of the surface?
(A) 30 N
(B) 12 N
(C) 4.5 N
(D) 4 N
(E) 3 N

98. What is the magnitude of the work done by the frictional force exerted on the block by the rough section of the
surface?

(A) 24 J
(B) 16 J
(C) 8 J
(D) 6 J
(E) 3 J

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99.

Two model cars, A and B, have the same mass but different bumpers. The acceleration of each car during its
collision with a wall is measured, and the data are shown in the graphs above. Which of the following statements
about the collisions are correct? Select two answers.
(A) Both cars reach their maximum speed at 10.05 s.
(B) The cars experience approximately the same impulse.
(C) Car B experiences a nonzero force for a longer time than car A.
(D) The change in momentum for car B occurs over a shorter period of time than for car A.

100. Two skaters are initially at rest next to each other on frictionless ice. Skater A pushes on skater B. If skater A has
greater mass than skater B, which of the following correctly relates the magnitudes of their momentums p and their
kinetic energies K after the push?

(A) and

(B)
(C) and
(D)
(E)

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101.

Using a force probe, a student generates the graph above of the force exerted on a small wagon as a function of
time. The wagon starts from rest and rolls with negligible friction in the axles. Which of the following graphs best
represents the wagon’s momentum as a function of time?

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(A)

(B)

(C)

(D)

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102.

A stationary cart attached to a force gauge is on a straight, horizontal, frictionless track. A student uses the force
gauge to move the cart, and the gauge produces the graph of force as a function of time shown above. How does the
momentum of the cart change during the time interval to ?
(A) The momentum increases in magnitude during the entire time interval.
(B) The momentum decreases in magnitude during the entire time interval.
(C) The momentum increases in magnitude at first, then decreases and reverses direction.
(D) The momentum increases in magnitude at first, then decreases without reversing direction.

103.

A stationary object explodes, breaking into three pieces of masses m, m, and 3m. The two pieces of mass m move
off at right angles to each other with the same magnitude of momentum mV, as shown in the diagram above. What
are the magnitude and direction of the velocity of the piece having mass 3m ?

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Magnitude Direction
(A)

Magnitude Direction
(B)

Magnitude Direction
(C)

Magnitude Direction
(D)

Magnitude Direction
(E)

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104.

An object of mass is moving in the positive -direction with an initial speed . Starting at time , a time-
varying force with initial magnitude is exerted on the object in the positive -direction. Measurements of the
force as a function of time are represented in the graph above. Which of the following statements is true about the
motion of the object between and ?
(A) The momentum of the object has decreased to zero at time .
(B) The momentum of the object has increased by approximately .

(C) The momentum of the object has decreased by approximately .

(D) The momentum of the object at time is .

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105.

A soft foam block of mass m slides without friction in the positive x-direction with speed v. At time t = 0 , a student
briefly pushes the block with a force probe in the positive x-direction. The graph above shows the force probe’s
measurements as a function of time during the push. Which of the following statements is true about the block’s
momentum between t = 0 and t = t1?
(A) The momentum of the block has decreased to zero at time t1.

(B) The momentum of the block has increased by approximately 1/2 F0t1

(C) The momentum of the block has decreased by approximately 1/2 F0t1
The change in momentum cannot be determined without knowing the distance by which the force probe
(D)
compressed the block.

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106.

A spacecraft of mass 4000 kg is traveling in a straight line in the positive direction. Engines can be fired so that the
force exerted on the spacecraft is in the positive or negative direction. The graph above shows data for the force
during one interval. Which of the following is the best estimate of the net change in the speed of the spacecraft from
time t = 0 to time t = 4 s?
(A) +0.4 m/s
(B) +0.1 m/s
(C) -0.1 m/s
(D) -0.4 m/s

107. A person of mass 60 kg sliding along level ice at a speed of 3.0 m/s collides with a second person who is initially at
rest. Assume that friction is negli-gible. If the two people hold onto each other and their common final speed after
colliding is 2.0 m/s, the mass of the second person is
(A) 10 kg
(B) 30 kg
(C) 40 kg
(D) 80 kg
(E) 90 kg

108.

A ball of mass M and speed v collides head-on with a ball of mass 2M and speed , as shown above. If the two
balls stick together, their speed after the collision is

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(A) 0

(B)
(C)

(D)
(E)

109. A block of mass m slides along a frictionless surface with kinetic energy . It collides with a block of mass
that is initially at rest, and the two blocks stick together and slide with total kinetic energy . What is the ratio
?
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

110. Two objects, A and B, initially at rest, are “exploded” apart by the release of a coiled spring that was compressed
between them.
As they move apart, the velocity of object A is 5 m/s and the velocity of object B is -2 m/s. The ratio of the mass of
object A to the mass of object B, mA/mB, is
(A) 4/25
(B) 2/5
(C) 1/1
(D) 5/2
(E) 25/4

111. A ball of mass m and momentum p has kinetic energy equal to which of the following?

(A)

(B)

(C)

(D)
(E)

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112.

Two carts, of mass 2m and m, approach each other head-on with the same speed v, as shown in the figure above.
When the carts collide, they hook together. Assuming positive momentum is to the right, which of the following
best represents the momentum of the cart of mass m as a function of time before and after the collision?

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(A)

(B)

(C)

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(D)

113. A brother and sister are standing next to each other at rest on a surface of frictionless ice. The brother’s mass is
exactly twice that of his sister’s. The sister suddenly pushes her brother. As a result, the sister moves with kinetic
energy . What is the resulting kinetic energy of the brother?
(A)
(B)
(C)

(D)

114.

A rock and a firecracker are each thrown into the air at the same angle and with the same initial speed. The rock
follows the trajectory shown above on the left. The firecracker initially follows the same trajectory as the rock but
explodes into three pieces at the point indicated above on the right. Which of the following describes the motion of
the center of mass of the firecracker pieces after the explosion?

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(A) It follows a path identical to the path of the rock.

(B) It remains at rest as the firecracker pieces move away.
(C) It falls vertically downward.
It continues to move in a straight line with the same velocity that the firecracker had just before the
(D)
explosion.

115.

A block of mass travels with speed to the right on a horizontal surface with negligible friction toward a sphere
of mass hanging at rest from a light cord, as shown above. The block collides elastically with the sphere. Which
of the following correctly describes the speed and direction of the block and the speed of the sphere a short time
after the collision?

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Speed and Direction of Block Speed of Sphere

(A)

to the left Slightly less than

Speed and Direction of Block Speed of Sphere

(B)

to the right Slightly less than

Speed and Direction of Block Speed of Sphere

(C)

Zero Slightly less than

Speed and Direction of Block Speed of Sphere

(D)

to the left Zero

116.

Block A of mass 2.0 kg is released from rest at the top of a 3.6 m long plane inclined at an angle of 30º, as shown in
the figure above. After sliding on the horizontal surface, block A hits and sticks to block B, which is at rest and has
mass 3.0 kg. Assume friction is negligible. The speed of the blocks after the collision is most nearly

(A) 2.4 m/s

(B) 3.2 m/s
(C) 3.8 m/s
(D) 6.0 m/s

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117. A toy cannon of mass 1.0 kg is initially at rest on a horizontal surface when it launches a 0.05 kg projectile with a
velocity of 10 m/s at an angle of 60° above the horizontal. What is the speed of the 1.0 kg cannon immediately after
the projectile is released, assuming that friction is negligible?

(A) 0.25 m/s

(B) 0.35 m/s

(C) 0.43 m/s
(D) 0.50 m/s
(E) 0.87 m/s

118. Two identical blocks with mass 5.0 kg each are connected to the opposite ends of a compressed spring. The blocks
initially slide together on a frictionless surface with velocity 2 m/s to the right. The spring is then released by
remote control. At some later instant, the left block is moving at 1 m/s to the left, and the other block is moving to
the right. What is the speed of the center of mass of the system at that instant?
(A) 4 m/s
(B) 3 m/s
(C) 2 m/s
(D) 0 m/s

119. Two identical blocks are connected to the opposite ends of a compressed spring. The blocks initially slide together
on a frictionless surface with velocity v to the right. The spring is then released by remote control. At some later
instant, the left block is moving at v/2 to the left, and the other block is moving to the right. What is the speed of the
center of mass of the system at that instant?
(A) 5v/2
(B) 3v/2

(C) v

(D) v/2

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120.

A sphere of mass attached to a thin string is released from the position shown above. At its lowest point the
sphere strikes a block of mass that is initially at rest. Using measurements of the objects’ speeds taken by two
motion detectors immediately before and after the collision, a student calculates that the total kinetic energy of the
sphere-block system after the collision is significantly less than it was before the collision. Which of the following
most plausibly explains this result?
The student made a mistake in obtaining data, because in a collision the kinetic energy must be
(A)
conserved.
In calculating kinetic energy after the collision, the student did not account for the energy lost when the
(B)
block slid on the table.
In calculating kinetic energy, the student did not consider the potential energy of the sphere-Earth
(C)
system as the sphere was released.
The sphere or the block was deformed during the collision and dissipated part of the sphere-block
(D)
system’s mechanical energy.

121.

A cart of known mass is initially at rest on a straight horizontal track, and a force sensor attached to a string is
used to pull on the cart. The wheels of the cart have negligible mass and negligible internal friction. Which of the
following indicates how a graph of the force sensor reading as a function of time can be used to estimate the final
speed of the cart?

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(A) By multiplying the area under the graph by

(B) By dividing the area under the graph by
(C) By multiplying the slope of the graph by
(D) By dividing the slope of the graph by

122.

An open cart on a level surface is rolling without frictional loss through a vertical downpour of rain, as shown
above. As the cart rolls, an appreciable amount of rainwater accumulates in the cart. The speed of the cart will
(A) increase because of conservation of momentum
(B) increase because of conservation of mechanical energy
(C) decrease because of conservation of momentum
(D) decrease because of conservation of mechanical energy
(E) remain the same because the raindrops are falling perpendicular to the direction of the cart's motion

123.

The figure above shows the relative velocities of boxes and before and after they collide on a surface with
negligible friction. Which of the following correctly compares the masses of the two boxes and indicates whether
the kinetic energy of the two-box system changes during the collision?

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Box Masses Kinetic Energy

(A)

Equal Changes

Box Masses Kinetic Energy

(B)

Equal Does not change

Box Masses Kinetic Energy

(C)

Unequal Changes

Box Masses Kinetic Energy

(D)

Unequal Does not change

124.

Cart of mass travels toward cart of mass , which is initially at rest. The two carts stick together after
the collision. The position of the center of mass of cart is recorded at equal time intervals before and after the
collision, as shown above. Based on the data, what can be concluded about the relative masses of carts and ?
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D) The answer cannot be determined without knowing the initial speed of cart .

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125. Directions: For the question or incomplete statement below, two of the suggested answers are correct. For
this question, you must select both correct choices to earn credit. No partial credit will be earned if only one
correct choice is selected. Select the two that are best in each case.

Two lab carts have the same mass and are free to move on a horizontal track. The carts’ wheels have negligible
mass. Cart 1 travels to the right at and collides with cart 2, which is initially at rest, as shown at left above.
Cart 2 has a compressed spring-loaded plunger with a nonnegligible amount of stored energy. During the collision,
the spring-loaded plunger pops out, staying in contact with cart 1 for as the spring decompresses. Negligible
mechanical energy dissipates during the collision. Taking rightward as positive, the carts’ velocities after the
collision could be which of the following? Select two answers.
Cart 1 Cart 2
(A)

Cart 1 Cart 2
(B)

Cart 1 Cart 2
(C)

Cart 1 Cart 2
(D)

126.

Two lumps of clay with masses and are traveling in opposite directions with speed , as shown above. The
lumps of clay collide and stick together. What is the speed of the combined lump of clay after the collision?
(A) Zero
(B)
(C)
(D)

127. In a one-dimensional perfectly elastic collision, an object of mass m is traveling with speed v0 in the +x-direction
when it strikes an object with mass 3m that is at rest. What are the objects’ velocities following the collision?

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Object of Mass m Object of Mass 3m

(A)

Zero v0/3, +x-direction

Object of Mass m Object of Mass 3m

(B)

v0/4, +x-direction v0/2, +x-direction

Object of Mass m Object of Mass 3m

(C)

v0/2, +x-direction v0/2, +x-direction

Object of Mass m Object of Mass 3m

(D)

v0/2, -x-direction v0/2, +x-direction

128.

A spaceship and its shuttle pod are traveling to the right in a straight line with speed v, as shown in the top figure
above. The mass of the pod is m, and the mass of the spaceship is 6m. The pod is launched, and afterward the pod is
moving to the right with speed vp and the spaceship is moving to the right with speed where vf > v, as shown in the
bottom figure. Which of the following is true of the speed vc of the center of mass of the system after the pod is
launched?

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(A) vc = vf
(B) v < vc < vf
(C) vc < v
(D) vc = v

129. An ice-skater is moving at a constant velocity across an icy pond. The skater throws a snowball directly ahead.
Which of the following correctly describes the velocity of the center of mass of the skater-snowball system
immediately after the snowball is thrown? Assume friction and air resistance are negligible.
(A) It is equal to the velocity of the snowball.
(B) It is equal to the new velocity of the skater.
(C) It is equal to half the original velocity of the skater.
(D) It is equal to the original velocity of the skater.

130. A dog of mass 10 kg sits on a skateboard of mass 2 kg that is initially traveling south at 2 m/s. The dog jumps off
with a velocity of 1 m/s north rela-tive to the ground. Which of the following is the best estimate of the velocity of
the skateboard immediately after the dog has jumped?
(A) 1 m/s north
(B) 1 m/s south
(C) 3 m/s south
(D) 7 m/s south
(E) 17 m/s south

131.

Two objects of mass 0.2 kg and 0.1 kg, respectively, move parallel to the x-axis, as shown above. The 0.2 kg object
overtakes and collides with the 0.1 kg object. Immediately after the collision, the y-component of the velocity of the
0.2 kg object is 1 m/s upward. What is the y-component of the velocity of the 0.1 kg object immediately after the
collision?

(A) 2 m/s downward

(B) 0.5 m/s downward
(C) 0 m/s
(D) 0.5 m/s upward
(E) 2 m/s upward

132. Two people of unequal mass are initially standing still on ice with negligible friction. They then simultaneously
push each other horizontally. Afterward, which of the following is true?

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(A) The kinetic energies of the two people are equal.

(B) The speeds of the two people are equal.
(C) The momenta of the two people are of equal magnitude.
(D) The center of mass of the two-person system moves in the direction of the less massive person.
(E) The less massive person has a smaller initial acceleration than the more massive person.

133. A cart of mass m is moving with negligible friction along a track with known speed v1 to the right. It collides with
and sticks to a cart of mass 4m moving with known speed v2 to the right. Which of the two principles, conservation
of momentum and conservation of mechanical energy, must be applied to determine the final speed of the carts, and
why?
Only conservation of momentum, because the momentum lost by one cart is gained by the other and
(A)
there is only one unknown quantity.
Both conservation of mechanical energy and conservation of momentum, because both principles apply
(B)
in any collision.
Both conservation of mechanical energy and conservation of momentum, because neither cart changes
(C)
direction.
Either conservation of momentum or conservation of mechanical energy, because only one equation is
(D)
required to solve for the one unknown variable.

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134.

A student on another planet has two identical spheres, each of mass 0.6 kg, attached to the ends of a rod of
negligible mass. The student gives the assembly a rotation in the vertical plane and then releases it so it falls, as
shown in the top figure above. Sensors record the vertical velocity of the two spheres, and the data is shown in the
graph of velocity v as a function of time t. Another student wants to calculate the assembly’s angular speed and the
change in the linear momentum of the center of mass of the assembly between 0 s and 0.3 s. Which of these
quantities can be determined using the graph?
(A) Angular speed only
(B) Change in linear momentum only
(C) Angular speed and change in linear momentum
(D) Neither of these quantities can be determined using the graph.

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Assignment #19

1.

A student attaches a block of mass to a vertical spring so that the block-spring system will oscillate if the
block-spring system is released from rest at a vertical position that is not the system’s equilibrium position.
The figure shows three positions of the spring as it travels from point to point and then from point to
point . Point is the lowest point of the center of mass of the block as it oscillates. Point is the
equilibrium position of the block-spring system. Point is the highest point of the center of mass of the
block as it oscillates. The gravitational potential energy of the block-spring-Earth system is considered to be
zero at point .
Which of the following claims is correct about the block-spring-Earth system?

A The gravitational potential energy of the block-spring-Earth system is the same at point as it is at point .

B The spring potential energy of the block-spring-Earth system is the same at point as it is at point .

C The block-spring-Earth system does not have spring potential energy at point .

D The block-spring-Earth system has minimum potential energy at point .

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Assignment #19

2.

A block of mass on a horizontal surface is attached to a horizontal spring of negligible mass and
spring constant . The other end of the spring is attached to a wall, and there is negligible friction
between the block and the horizontal surface. When the spring is unstretched, the block is located at
. The block is then pulled to and released from rest so that the block-spring system
oscillates between and , as shown in the figure.
Which of the following descriptions about the system are correct? Select two answers.

The kinetic energy of the block and the spring potential energy of the system at are both half of
A
the total mechanical energy of the system.

B The spring potential energy of the system at is nearly .

C The kinetic energy of the system at is nearly .

The sum of the spring potential energy of the system and the kinetic energy of the block at is
D
nearly .

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 AP Physics 1 Scoring Guide

Assignment #19

3.

A cart of mass on a horizontal surface is attached to a horizontal spring of negligible mass. A

block is secured on top of the of the cart. The other end of the spring is attached to a wall, and there
is negligible friction between the cart-block-spring system and the horizontal surface. The cart-block-spring
system then experiences simple harmonic motion as described by the graph that shows the velocity of the
cart-block system as a function of time. The maximum spring potential energy of the cart-block-spring
system is most nearly

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 AP Physics 1 Scoring Guide

Assignment #19

Three different experiments are conducted that pertain to the oscillatory motion of a pendulum. For each
experiment, the length of the pendulum and the mass of the pendulum are indicated. In all experiments, the
pendulum is released from the same angle with respect to the vertical.

The pendulum in Experiment 2 is released from rest at an angle of with respect to the vertical. What is
4.
the magnitude of the change in kinetic energy of the pendulum from its lowest point to the highest point
along its arc?

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 AP Physics 1 Scoring Guide

Assignment #19

A Zero

5.

A block on a horizontal surface is attached to a horizontal spring of negligible mass. The other end of
the spring is attached to a wall, and there is negligible friction between the block and the horizontal surface.
The block is released from rest after the spring is stretched such that the block-spring system experiences
simple harmonic motion, as shown in the graph that represents the block’s velocity as a function of time.
How could a student use the known information and the graph to determine the magnitude of the change in
spring potential energy of the system from the release point of the block to the moment when the system’s
spring potential energy is zero?

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 AP Physics 1 Scoring Guide

Assignment #19

A By determining the kinetic energy of the block at by using .

B By determining the kinetic energy of the block at by using .

By determining the kinetic energy of the block at and 6 s by using and adding the two values
C
of kinetic energy together.

By determining the kinetic energy of the block at and by using , subtracting the two
D
values of kinetic energy, and determining the magnitude of the result.

6.

A student attaches a block to a horizontal spring so that the block-spring system will oscillate if the block-
spring system released from rest at a horizontal position that is not the system’s equilibrium position. The
student creates a graph of the block-spring system’s kinetic energy as a function of time, as shown. The
spring potential energy of the block-spring system at is most nearly

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 AP Physics 1 Scoring Guide

Assignment #19

7.

A block of mass on a horizontal surface is attached to a horizontal spring of negligible mass and
spring constant . The other end of the spring is attached to a wall, and there is negligible friction
between the block and the horizontal surface. When the spring is unstretched, the block is located at
. The block is then pulled to and released from rest so that the block-spring system
oscillates between and , as shown in the figure. Which of the following predictions
is correct regarding the energy of the system?

If the mass of the block is changed to and all other quantities are held constant, the maximum kinetic
A
energy of the system will be half of the value from the original situation.

If the spring is changed so that its spring constant is and all other quantities are held constant, the
B
maximum kinetic energy of the system will be twice the value from the original situation.

If the block is pulled to and released from rest and all other quantities are held constant, the
C
maximum kinetic energy of the system will be four times the value from the original situation.

If the mass of the block is changed to and the spring is changed to so that its spring constant is ,
D
the maximum kinetic energy of the system will be the same as the value from the original situation.

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 AP Physics 1 Scoring Guide

Assignment #19

8.

A rope hangs from a tree that is on Earth’s surface. Student holds on to the end of a rope and hangs from
rest. Student exerts a force onto student so that student undergoes simple harmonic motion while
hanging onto the rope. Air resistance is considered to be negligible. Graph 1 shows the vertical position of
student as a function of time. Graph 2 shows the speed of student as a function of the student’s vertical
position.
What is the approximate length of the rope and the mass of the student if the maximum gravitational
potential energy of the student-Earth system is ?

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 AP Physics 1 Scoring Guide

Assignment #19

Length of Rope Mass of Student

A
2.5 41

Length of Rope Mass of Student

B
2.5 82

Length of Rope Mass of Student

C
3.1 41

Length of Rope Mass of Student

D
3.1 82

9.

A block on a horizontal surface is attached to a horizontal spring of negligible mass. The other end of the
spring is attached to a wall, and there is negligible friction between the block and the horizontal surface. The
block-spring system is then placed into simple harmonic motion. The figure shows a graph of the velocity of
the block as a function of time.
At which of the following times does the block-spring system have maximum spring potential energy?

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 AP Physics 1 Scoring Guide

Assignment #19

10.

A block of mass on a horizontal surface is attached to a horizontal spring of negligible mass. The
other end of the spring is attached to a wall, and there is negligible friction between the block and the
horizontal surface. The block-spring system is released from rest and undergoes simple harmonic motion.
The graph shows the horizontal position of the block as a function of time.
How could the student estimate the total mechanical energy of the system by using the graph and the known
information about the system?

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 AP Physics 1 Scoring Guide

Assignment #19

Determine the slope of the curve between and . This value represents the average speed of the
A
block between these instants in time. Then use .

Determine the slope of the curve between and . This value represents the average speed of the
B
block between these instants in time. Then use .

Determine the slope of the curve between and . This value represents the average speed of the
C
block between these instants in time. Then use .

Determine the slope of the curve between and . This value represents the average speed of the
D
block between these instants in time. Then use .

One end of a string is attached to an object of mass , and the other end of the string is secured so that the
11.
object is at rest as it hangs from the string. When the object is raised to a position that is a height above
its lowest point and released from rest, the object undergoes simple harmonic motion. When the object
passes through the equilibrium position , it has a speed .
Which of the following methods could a student use to determine the total mechanical energy at position
, and why? Select two answers.

, because energy changes from kinetic energy to gravitational potential energy as the
A
pendulum swings from position to position .

, because energy changes from gravitational potential energy to kinetic energy as the
B
pendulum swings from position to position .

, because this equation represents the maximum kinetic energy of the pendulum at position if
C
the system has zero gravitational potential energy at position .

, because this equation represents the maximum gravitational potential energy of the system at
D
position if the system has zero gravitational potential energy at position .

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 AP Physics 1 Scoring Guide

Assignment #19

12.

One end of a string is attached to an object of mass , and the other end of the string is secured so that
the object is at rest as it hangs from the string above the ground, as shown in the figure. The object is
then pulled to an unknown height above the ground. The object is then released from rest. The speed of the
pendulum at the position shown in the figure is when it undergoes simple harmonic motion. What
is the approximate change in the gravitational potential energy of the pendulum-Earth system from the
pendulum’s maximum height to the position where its speed is ?

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 AP Physics 1 Scoring Guide

Assignment #19

13.

One end of a string is attached to an object of mass , and the other end of the string is secured so that the
object is at rest as it hangs from the string. When the object is raised to a height above its lowest point and
released from rest, the object undergoes simple harmonic motion. Three possible positions of the pendulum,
, , and , are shown in the figure. Which of the following claims is correct regarding the mechanical
energy of the pendulum?

The magnitude of the change in gravitational potential energy from point to point is the same as from
A
point to point .

The pendulum has half of its maximum speed whenever it is at a vertical position that is halfway between
B
point and point .

A pendulum with twice the mass will have twice the speed at the lowest point along the pendulum’s arc
C
when compared to the pendulum that is shown in the figure.

A pendulum that is released at an angular amplitude that is twice what is shown in the figure will have the
D
same total mechanical energy as the pendulum shown in the figure.

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 AP Physics 1 Scoring Guide

Assignment #19

A student attaches a block of mass to a vertical spring so that the block-spring system will oscillate if the
14.
block-spring system is released from rest at a vertical distance below the system’s equilibrium position.
The student measures the period of oscillation for the system to be . What is the maximum spring potential
energy of the system in terms of , , and ?

15.

A block of mass on a horizontal surface is attached to a horizontal spring of negligible mass and
unknown spring constant. The other end of the spring is attached to a wall, and there is negligible friction
between the block and the horizontal surface. When the spring is unstretched, the block is located at
. The block is then pulled to and released from rest so that the block-spring system
oscillates between and . The block-spring system undergoes 5 oscillations in .
How could a student determine the change in spring potential energy of the system from to
by using the diagram and the known information?

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 AP Physics 1 Scoring Guide

Assignment #19

By dividing 5 oscillations by to determine the period of the system, using to determine the
A spring constant of the spring, using to determine the spring potential energy at and
, and determining the magnitude of the difference of these two values.

By dividing 5 oscillations by to determine the period of the system, using to determine the
B spring constant of the spring, using to determine the spring potential energy at and
, and determining the sum of these two values.

By dividing by 5 oscillations to determine the period of the system, using to determine the
C spring constant of the spring, using to determine the spring potential energy at and
, and determining the magnitude of the difference of these two values.

By dividing by 5 oscillations to determine the period of the system, using to determine the
D spring constant of the spring, using to determine the spring potential energy at and
, and determining the sum of these two values.

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 AP PHYSICS 1 Scoring Guide

：Energy（
Topic Questions： （MCQ）
）

1.

An amusement park ride has two identical carriages that revolve around the center of the ride’s axle, as shown in the
figure. Both carts travel at a constant tangential speed at all points along the circular path. At what position is the
total mechanical energy of the cart-cart-Earth system at its maximum value?

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(A)

(B)

(C)

(D) The total energy of the Earth-Ferris wheel ride is constant.

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：Energy（
Topic Questions： （MCQ）
）

2.

Objects and are connected by a string of negligible mass and suspended vertically over a pulley of negligible
mass, creating an Atwood’s machine, as shown in the figure. The objects are initially at rest, and the mass of Object
is greater than the mass of Object . As Object falls, how does the gravitational potential energy of the Object
-Object -Earth system change? All frictional forces are considered to be negligible.
The gravitational potential energy increases because the center of mass of Object and Object
(A)
moves upward.
The gravitational potential energy increases because the center of mass of Object and Object
(B)
moves downward.
The gravitational potential energy decreases because the center of mass of Object and Object
(C)
moves upward.
The gravitational potential energy decreases because the center of mass of Object and Object
(D)
moves downward.

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：Energy（
Topic Questions： （MCQ）
）

3.

A block of mass is released from rest at point 1, as shown in the figure. The block slides without frictional forces
along the circular arc but encounters frictional forces as soon as it reaches the horizontal portion of the track at point
2. The block travels a distance along the horizontal track before coming to rest at point 3. Consider the block-
Earth system. In terms of the mechanical energy of the system, which of the following claims is correct, and why?
(A) The system is open, because there is a net force exerted on the block.
(B) The system is open, because the block’s velocity is zero at points 1 and 3.
(C) The system is closed, because there is a net force exerted on the block.
(D) The system is closed, because the block’s velocity is zero at points 1 and 3.

4.

An inclined track is secured to a table. The height of the highest point of the track above the tabletop is . The
height from the tabletop to the floor is . A block of mass is released from rest and slides down the track such
that all frictional forces are considered to be negligible. The block leaves the track horizontally and strikes the
ground at a distance from the edge of the track as shown. Which of the following statements is correct about the
scenario? Select two answers.

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If the block is released from a height , the block will land at a distance away from the end of the
(A)
track.
If the block’s mass is increased to , the block will land at a distance away from the edge of the
(B)
track.
The total mechanical energy of the system containing only the block increases from the moment of
(C)
release to the moment it strikes the ground.

(D) The total mechanical energy of the block-Earth system remains constant.

The figures above show a small block of mass on a track in the shape of a circular arc. The block is released
from rest at a height above the floor, as shown in Figure . The block slides along the track with negligible friction and
leaves it at a height of above the floor and a speed of at a angle, as shown in Figure .

5. The height is most nearly

(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

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：Energy（
Topic Questions： （MCQ）
）

6.

A block is pushed up an incline that makes a angle with the horizontal, as shown in the figure. Once the
block is pushed a distance of up the incline, the block remains at rest. What is the approximate change
in the gravitational potential energy of the block-Earth system when the block is held at rest compared to its original
location at the bottom of the incline?
(A)
(B)

(C)
(D)

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：Energy（
Topic Questions： （MCQ）
）

7.

An object of mass is attached to a string of negligible mass and spun in a vertical circle of radius , as shown in
the figure above. As the object’s height increases, its speed decreases such that the object-Earth system’s total
mechanical energy remains constant. By how much does the object’s kinetic energy decrease in moving from point
, the lowest point on the circle, to point , the highest point on the circle?
(A)
(B)
(C)

(D)

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：Energy（
Topic Questions： （MCQ）
）

8. The Atwood’s machine shown consists of two blocks of mass and that are connected by a light string that
passes over a pulley of negligible friction and negligible mass. The block of mass is a distance above the
ground, and the block of mass is a distance above the ground. is larger than . The two-block system
is released from rest. Which of the following claims correctly describes the outcome after the blocks are released
from rest but before the block of reaches the ground? Select two answers.

For the system consisting of the two blocks, the change in the kinetic energy of the system is equal to
(A)
the work done by gravity on the system.
For the system consisting of the two blocks, the change in kinetic energy of the system is equal to the
(B)
sum of .
For the system consisting of the two blocks and the pulley, the increase in kinetic energy of the system is
(C)
equal to the decrease in the gravitational potential energy of the system.
For the system consisting of the two blocks, the pulley, and Earth, the change in the total mechanical
(D)
energy of the system is zero.

9. An object is released from rest near and above Earth’s surface from a distance of . After applying the
appropriate kinematic equation, a student predicts that it will take for the object to reach the ground with a
speed of . After performing the experiment, it is found that the object reaches the ground after a time of
. How should the student determine the actual speed of the object when it reaches the ground? Assume that the
acceleration of the object is constant as it falls.

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：Energy（
Topic Questions： （MCQ）
）

Use but use the new time rather than and the vertical acceleration equal to
(A)
since all other quantities are known. Solve for .
Use with the vertical acceleration equal to since all other quantities are
(B)
known. Solve for .
Use since the conservation of mechanical energy applies in this scenario, and the
(C)
initial height above the ground is known. Solve for .
Use to determine the acceleration of the object as it falls since all other
(D) quantities are known. Then use with
since all other quantities are known. Solve for .

10. An object initially at rest falls from a height until it reaches the ground. Two of the following energy bar charts
represent the kinetic energy and gravitational potential energy of the object-Earth system at two positions.
The first position is when the object is initially released, and the second position is when the object is halfway
between its release point and the ground. Which two charts could represent the mechanical energy of the object-
Earth system? Select two answers.

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Topic Questions： （MCQ）
）

(A)

(B)

(C)

(D)

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Topic Questions： （MCQ）
）

11.

A block of mass is attached and secured to one end of a spring with spring constant . The other end
of the spring is secured to a wall. The block is pushed against the spring, which compresses the spring to a position
of . When uncompressed, the end of the spring that is attached to the block is at a position of
. The block-spring system is then released from rest, and the block travels along a horizontal, rough
track. A motion sensor is placed so that it measures the velocity of the object as it slides along the track. A graph of
total mechanical energy of the block-spring system as a function of position is shown. Which of the following
statements about the block-spring system are true? Select two answers.
(A) The force exerted on the block by the spring at is .
(B) The block has maximum speed at .
(C) The block has half the initial spring potential energy at .
(D) The work done by friction as the block travels from to is .

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：Energy（
Topic Questions： （MCQ）
）

12.

An experiment is conducted such that an applied force is exerted on a object as it travels across a horizontal
surface in which frictional forces are NOT considered to be negligible. A graph of the net force exerted on the
object as a function of the object’s distance traveled is shown. How could a student use the graph to determine the
net work done on the object?
(A) Multiply the average value of the applied force by the total distance the object traveled.
(B) Multiply the slope of the best fit line by the total distance the object traveled.
(C) Calculate the area bound by the line of best fit and the horizontal axis from to .
There is not enough information that is known or can be obtained from the graph to determine the net
(D)
work done on the object.

13.

The surface of an incline is coated with an experimental substance that is intended to reduce the frictional force
between a block and the surface of the incline. A block is placed at the top of the incline at a height of ,
as shown in the figure. After the block is released from rest, the block slides down the incline and a motion detector
at the bottom of the incline measures the block’s speed as after the block is no longer on the incline. Which
of the following claims is correct about the experimental substance?

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：Energy（
Topic Questions： （MCQ）
）

The experimental substance reduced all the frictional force because all the gravitational potential energy
(A) of the Earth-block system at the top of the incline was converted into the kinetic energy of the block at
the bottom of the incline.
The experimental substance did not reduce all the frictional force because some of the gravitational
(B) potential energy of the Earth-block system at the top of the incline was converted into nonmechanical
energy.
The effectiveness of the experimental substance cannot be determined because the speed of the block at
(C) the bottom of the inline, as measured by the motion detector, indicates that the block has more energy at
this location than the Earth-block system had at the top of the incline.
The effectiveness of the experimental substance cannot be determined without knowing the magnitude
(D) of the frictional force between the block and the incline before and after the experimental substance was
applied to the incline.

A student is conducting an experiment to analyze the mechanical energy of a block-spring system. The student places a
block of mass on a horizontal surface and attaches the block to a horizontal spring of negligible mass and spring
constant , as shown in the figure. There is negligible friction between the block and the horizontal surface. The
other end of the spring is attached to a wall. The block-spring system is initially at the spring’s equilibrium position.

14. The student wants to collect data of the block-spring system that can be used to determine the work done on the
spring by the block when the spring is compressed. Which of the following includes only the measuring devices that
the student will need in order to collect the data?
(A) Force probe and meterstick
(B) Stopwatch and meterstick
(C) Stopwatch and force probe
(D) Force probe, stopwatch, and meterstick

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）

15.

Based on data collected from the experiment, the student creates the graph that shows the force exerted on the
spring as a function of the distance the spring is compressed. How can the student use the data to experimentally
determine the work done on the spring by the block?
(A) Determine the slope of the line of best fit through the data from to .
Determine the area bound by the line of best fit through the data and the horizontal axis from to
(B)
.
Use the maximum value of the force exerted on the spring and multiply that value by the maximum
(C)
distance that the spring is compressed.
This graph cannot be used to determine the work done by the block on the spring because the force
(D)
exerted on the spring by the block is not constant.

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Topic Questions： （MCQ）
）

16.

A student conducts an experiment in which an object is released from rest and falls to the floor. In the experiment,
frictional forces CANNOT be neglected. The student uses experimental data to create two graphs. Figure 1 is a
graph of kinetic energy of the object as a function of time. Figure 2 is a graph of the object-Earth system’s
gravitational potential energy as a function of time. How should the student use one or both graphs to determine
how much the total mechanical energy changes after ?

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：Energy（
Topic Questions： （MCQ）
）

Calculate the magnitude of the difference between the final kinetic energy of the object and the final
(A)
kinetic energy of the object by using the graph in Figure 1.
Calculate the magnitude of the difference between the final gravitational potential energy of the system
(B)
and the initial gravitational potential energy of the system by using the graph in Figure 2.
Calculate the magnitude of the difference between the final kinetic energy of the object found from the
(C) graph in Figure 1 and the final gravitational potential energy of the object-Earth system found from the
graph in Figure 2.
Calculate the magnitude of the difference between the final kinetic energy of the object found from the
(D) graph in Figure 1 and the initial gravitational potential energy of the object-Earth system found from the
graph in Figure 2.

17.

A block on a horizontal surface is placed in contact with a light spring with spring constant , as shown in Figure 1.
When the block is moved to the left so that the spring is compressed a distance from its equilibrium length, the
potential energy stored in the spring-block system is . When a second block of mass is placed on the same
surface and the spring is compressed a distance , as shown in Figure 2, how much potential energy is stored in
the spring compared to the original potential energy ? All frictional forces are considered to be negligible.
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

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Topic Questions： （MCQ）
）

A conveyor belt ramp of length is inclined at with respect to the horizontal and is used to move objects from one
location to another location. When an object is placed on the conveyor belt, the object travels up the incline with a
constant speed of . A motor is used to keep the conveyor belt moving. The mass of the objects that are placed on
the conveyor belt are varied.

18. Suppose the motor breaks and a person must push an object of mass from the bottom of the incline to the top
of the incline. The person can exert a force of on the object parallel to the incline. What is the approximate
amount of work that the person does on the object to move it to the top of the incline? Assume that all frictional
forces are negligible.
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

19. For the system that only includes the object, which of the following claims best describes what happens to the
mechanical energy of the system while the object is moving from the bottom of the ramp to the top of the ramp?
The mechanical energy of the object increases because the gravitational potential energy increases as the
(A)
object moves up the ramp.
The mechanical energy of the object decreases because the force due to gravity from Earth does negative
(B)
work on the object as it moves up the ramp.
(C) The mechanical energy of the object is constant because the kinetic energy of the object is constant.
A determination of the change of the mechanical energy of the object cannot be made without knowing
(D)
the power of the motor that is used to move the conveyor belt.

20. Object and object are placed on the incline such that the motor moves the conveyor belt. The mass of object
is greater than the mass of object . After both objects have been placed on the conveyor belt and travel at a
constant speed, how does the rate of change of the gravitational potential energy of the object –Earth system per
unit of time compare to that for the object –Earth system ?

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）

(A) , because the speed of the conveyor belt remains constant and both objects
move at the same constant speed.

(B) , because the speed of the conveyor belt remains constant and both objects
move at a constant speed.
(C) , because object has a greater mass than object .

(D) , because object has a greater mass than object .

21.

Two blocks of the same mass but made of different material slide across a horizontal, rough surface and eventually
come to rest. A graph of the kinetic energy of each block as a function of position along the surface is shown.
Which of the following is a true statement about the frictional force that is exerted on the two blocks?
(A) , since the force of friction is represented as the slope for each of the two curves.

(B) , since the force of friction is represented as the inverse slope for each of the two curves.
, since the force of friction is represented as the inverse of the area bound by each curve
(C)
and the horizontal axis.
, since the force of friction is represented as the area bound by each curve and the
(D)
horizontal axis.

A student conducts an experiment in which an object is released from rest above a motion detector so that data can be
collected about the object’s motion as the object falls to the ground. The experiment is conducted near Earth’s surface. All
frictional forces are considered to be negligible unless otherwise stated.

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）

22.

The student collects the data necessary to graph the object’s kinetic energy as a function of time, as shown. Which
of the following graphs represents the sum of the kinetic energy and gravitational potential energy of the
object-Earth system as a function of time?

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(A)

(B)

(C)

(D)

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23. The student wants to collect data to determine the work done by the force due to gravity on the object as it falls.
Which of the following lists contains the fewest number of measuring devices, in addition to the motion detector,
that the student can use?
(A) Spring scale
(B) Spring scale and meterstick
(C) Stopwatch and meterstick
(D) Spring scale, meterstick, and stopwatch

24.

A graph of the net force exerted on an object as a function of position is shown for the object of mass as it
travels a horizontal distance . Which expression represents the change in the kinetic energy of the object?
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

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25.

A object is released from rest near and above Earth’s surface such that the object-Earth system’s gravitational
potential energy as a function of time is shown in the graph. Which of the following graphs represents the kinetic
energy of the object as a function of time? Assume all frictional forces are considered to be negligible.

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(A)

(B)

(C)

(D)

26. Consider a system of two objects and Earth. Object and object are held together by a light string as shown in
the figure. is larger than . The two-object system is released from rest in the orientation shown in the figure
at a height above Earth’s surface. The change in the kinetic energy of the system from when it is released to the
instant it hits the ground is most nearly

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(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

27. A block of mass is sliding with an initial speed along a horizontal surface with negligible friction. A constant
force of magnitude is exerted on the object at an upward angle of from the horizontal, causing the object to
speed up. If the block remains in contact with the floor, what is the change in the block’s kinetic energy as it moves
a horizontal distance ?
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

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28.

A block of mass is launched by a spring of negligible mass along a horizontal surface of negligible friction. The
spring constant of the spring is . The spring is initially compressed a distance . The block is released from rest.
Some time after the block is released and travels in the direction shown in the figure, the spring compression is .
Which of the following mathematical calculations can a student use to determine the speed of the block at this
new position?
(A) . Solve for .

(B) . Solve for .

(C) and . Solve for .

(D) and . Solve for .

29. An object is released from rest at a height near and above the surface of Earth. As the object falls toward the
surface, Earth’s atmosphere exerts a resistive force on the object such that it reaches a terminal velocity before it
reaches the ground. Which of the following claims is true? Select two answers.

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(A) The system consisting of only the object is an open system.

(B) Earth’s atmosphere does negative work on the object as it falls toward the surface.
The change in the object’s kinetic energy from the instant it is released from rest, to the instant it reaches
(C)
terminal velocity, is zero.
The total mechanical energy of the object-Earth system remains constant at all times in which the object
(D)
is in motion.

30.

A block of mass is released from rest and slides down an incline, as shown in the figure. The length of the
incline is and the angle of the incline, , is . A graph of the speed as a function of time of the block
as it descends the incline is shown. How could a student use the graph and the information provided to determine
whether the block-Earth system is an open system or a closed system?

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Use the known mass of the block and the final velocity of the block after to determine the final
(A)
kinetic energy of the block.
Use the known length of the incline and the known angle that the incline makes with the horizontal to
(B) determine the height above the ground at which the block is released. Use this height and the object’s
known mass to determine the initial gravitational potential energy of the block-Earth system.
Use the known mass of the block and the initial velocity of the block at to determine the initial
(C) kinetic energy of the block. Compare it with final kinetic energy of the block that can be found as
described above.
Determine final kinetic energy as described above and compare it with the initial gravitational potential
(D)
energy of the block-Earth system as described above.

31.

A person exerts an upward force on a box, as shown above. The box may be moving upward, downward, or not at
all while the person exerts the upward force. For which of the following motions of the box is the work done by the
person on the box correctly indicated?

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Motion of Box Work Done by Person on Box

(A)

No motion Positive

Motion of Box Work Done by Person on Box

(B)

Upward with decreasing speed Negative

Motion of Box Work Done by Person on Box

(C)

Downward with constant speed Zero

Motion of Box Work Done by Person on Box

(D)

Downward with increasing speed Negative

32.

A person starting from rest at point swings along a circular arc from a rope, as shown above. Point is at a lower
height than point . What is the trajectory of the person when the person lets go of the rope at Point ?

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(A)

(B)

(C)

(D)

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33.

A planet moves in an elliptical orbit around a star, as shown in the diagram. Which of the following is true as the
planet moves from position 1 to position 2?
The planet loses kinetic energy due to negative gravitational work; thus, the total energy in the planet-
(A)
star system decreases.
The planet’s kinetic energy increases due to positive gravitational work; thus, the total energy in the
(B)
planet-star system increases.
Kinetic energy decreases and gravitational potential energy increases, but the total energy in the planet-
(C)
star system stays constant.
Potential energy decreases and kinetic energy increases, but the total energy in the planet-star system
(D)
stays constant.

34.

A block is held at rest against a compressed spring at point at the top of a frictionless track of height , as shown
above. The block is released, loses contact with the spring at point , and slides along the track until it passes point
, also at height . How do the potential energy of the block-Earth system and the kinetic energy of the block
at point compare with those at point ?

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Potential Energy of Kinetic Energy

(A) Block-Earth System of Block

Potential Energy of Kinetic Energy

(B) Block-Earth System of Block

Potential Energy of Kinetic Energy

(C) Block-Earth System of Block

Potential Energy of Kinetic Energy

(D) Block-Earth System of Block

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35.

The small block shown in the figure above was released from rest at point and slid down the track such that
friction was considered to be negligible. The block reached point with speed . Between points and , what
kind of work did the track do on the block, and why?
(A) Positive work, because the block’s kinetic energy increased.
Positive work, because a component of the gravitational force is directed along the track, making the
(B)
block gain kinetic energy.
(C) Zero work, because the average force exerted by the track on the block is zero.
Zero work, because the track does not exert a force on the block directed along the block’s direction of
(D)
motion.

36.

A block of mass is at rest on a ramp that is inclined at an angle with respect to the horizontal. Frictional forces
are considered to be nonnegligible. The block is pushed against a spring and then held in place. The spring is
compressed a distance of , and the spring is not secured to the block. The block is then released from rest, travels
up the incline, and comes to rest after traveling a distance , as shown above. Which of the following claims
correctly describes the energy of the system under consideration from when the block compressed the spring and
when the block has traveled a distance along the incline? Select two answers.

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(A) The mechanical energy of the system consisting of the spring increases by .

(B) The mechanical energy of the system consisting of the block does not change.

The mechanical energy of the system consisting of the block and Earth increases by more than zero but
(C)
less than .
(D) The mechanical energy of the system consisting of the spring, block, and Earth increases by .

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37.

A block of mass is attached to one end of a spring with spring constant . The other
end of the spring is attached to a fixed wall. The block is pushed against the spring, compressing it a distance
. The block is then released from rest, and the block-spring system travels along a horizontal, rough
track. Data collected from a motion detector are used to create a graph of the kinetic energy and spring potential
energy of the system as a function of the block's position as the spring expands. How can the student determine
the amount of mechanical energy dissipated by friction as the spring expanded to its natural spring length?

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Use with equal to the distance the spring is compressed. Then multiply the value by the spring
(A) constant of the spring. Then multiply this value by equal to the total displacement of the center of
mass of the block.
Subtract the final kinetic energy of the block-spring system from the initial spring potential energy
(B)
stored within the block-spring system.
(C) Use with equal to and equal to the maximum compression of the spring.
(D) Use the value of the kinetic energy of the block-spring system when the block is at a position of .

38.

A planet orbits a star along an elliptical path, as shown in the figure above. How do the planet’s kinetic energy and
the total mechanical energy of the star-planet system change as the planet moves from point X to point Y?

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Planet’s Kinetic Energy System’s Total Mechanical Energy

(A)

Increases Remains the same

Planet’s Kinetic Energy System’s Total Mechanical Energy

(B)

Increases Increases

Planet’s Kinetic Energy System’s Total Mechanical Energy

(C)

Decreases Remains the same

Planet’s Kinetic Energy System’s Total Mechanical Energy

(D)

Decreases Decreases

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39.

A student swings a ball at the end of a string of length in a vertical circle as shown. The ball moves with the
minimum speed necessary to complete a circular path at point 1. Consider the system of the ball. In terms of the
mechanical energy of the system, which of the following claims is correct, and why?
(A) The system is open, because the ball is able to complete a full revolution around the circle.
(B) The system is open, because a net force is exerted on the ball as it travels in a circle.
(C) The system is closed, because the ball is able to complete a full revolution around the circle.
(D) The system is closed, because the speed of the ball remains constant as it travels in the vertical circle.

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40.

Three identical massive bodies are at the corners of an equilateral triangle, each a distance from the center of
mass of the other two bodies, as shown in the figure. Each body has mass . What is the gravitational potential
energy of the three-body system?
(A) Zero
(B)

(C)

(D)

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41.

The Atwood’s machine shown consists of two blocks connected by a light string that passes over a pulley of
negligible mass and negligible friction. The blocks are released from rest, and is greater than . Assume that
the reference line of zero gravitational potential energy is the floor. Which of the following best represents the total
gravitational potential energy and total kinetic energy of the block-block-Earth system as a function of the
height of block ?

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(A)

(B)

(C)

(D)

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42.

Blocks and are connected by a string that passes over a pulley, as shown in the figure. Block has more mass
than Block . The string and pulley have negligible mass, and the pulley rotates with negligible friction. After the
blocks are released from rest, what happens to the mechanical energy of the system consisting of the two
blocks and Earth?
(A) decreases.
(B) remains constant.
(C) increases.
The change of cannot be determined without knowing the ratio of the blocks’ masses and their
(D)
initial distances from Earth’s surface.

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43.

Cylindrical disk is rotating freely about an axis when an identical disk that is not rotating is dropped directly
on top of disk . If the two disks stick together, how does the total angular momentum and total kinetic energy of
the two-disk system after the disks are stuck together compare to that of the system before disk was dropped?

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Total Angular Momentum Total Kinetic Energy

(A)

Remains the same Is one-half its original value

Total Angular Momentum Total Kinetic Energy

(B)

Remains the same Is one-fourth its original value

Total Angular Momentum Total Kinetic Energy

(C)

Is one-half its original value Is one-half its original value

Total Angular Momentum Total Kinetic Energy

(D)

Is one-half its original value Is one-fourth its original value

44.

Figure 1 shows the kinetic energy as a function of time for a object that is released from rest and falls toward
Earth’s surface. Figure 2 shows the kinetic energy as a function of time for a object that is released from rest
and falls toward Earth’s surface. Both objects are released simultaneously from the same height. How much does
the gravitational potential energy of the object-object-Earth system change from to ?

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(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

45.

A block is placed at the top of an incline and released from rest near Earth’s surface and unknown distance
above the ground. The angle between the ground and the incline is also unknown. Frictional forces between the
block and the incline are considered to be negligible. The block eventually slides to the bottom of the incline after
. The block’s velocity as a function of time is shown in the graph starting from the instant it is released.
How could a student use the graph to determine the total energy of the block-Earth system?

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(A) Use with and equal to the area bound between the horizontal axis and the curve.
Use with and equal to the final velocity of the object that can be found from the
(B)
graph.
Use with equal to the normal force exerted on the block and equal to the area bound between
(C)
the horizontal axis and the curve.
(D) The answer cannot be determined without knowing the initial height of the object above the ground.

46. A block slides across a flat, horizontal surface to the right. For each choice, the arrows represent velocity vectors of
the block at successive intervals of time. Which of the following diagrams represents the situation in which the
block loses kinetic energy?
(A)
(B)

(C)

(D)

47.

A cart is going around a circular loop, as shown in the figure. The cart moves with the smallest speed necessary to
stay in contact with the loop to complete a circular path at point 1. What is the speed of the cart at point 2?

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(A) Zero
(B)
(C)

(D)

48. A student wants to approximate the amount of work that the force due to gravity does on the student as the student
walks up a set of stairs. Which of the following measurements must the student collect in order to approximate the
amount of work done by Earth on the student? Select two answers.
(A) The mass of the student.
(B) The angle between the inclined portion of the stairs and the horizontal.
(C) The total inclined length of the stairs.
(D) The final vertical height above the initial vertical position.

49.

An experiment is conducted such that an applied force is exerted on a object as it travels across a horizontal
surface. A graph of the net force exerted on the object as a function of the object’s distance traveled is shown. How
could a student use the graph to determine the work done by the applied force?

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(A) Multiply the maximum value of the applied force by the total distance the object traveled.
(B) Multiply the weight of the object by the total distance traveled by the object.
(C) Calculate the slope of the line of best fit.
(D) Calculate the area bound by the line of best fit and the horizontal axis from to .

50.

A sled starts from rest at the top of a hill and slides down the hill, as shown above. As the sled passes through
a point that is vertically below its starting point, it has a speed of . How much mechanical energy was
dissipated by frictional forces during the interval shown?
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

51. A rocket is continuously firing its engines as it accelerates away from Earth. For the first kilometer of its ascent, the
mass of fuel ejected is small compared to the mass of the rocket. For this distance, which of the following indicates
the changes, if any, in the kinetic energy of the rocket, the gravitational potential energy of the Earth-rocket system,
and the mechanical energy of the Earth-rocket system?

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Rocket Kinetic Energy System Gravitational Potential Energy System Mechanical Energy
(A)

Increasing Increasing Increasing

Rocket Kinetic Energy System Gravitational Potential Energy System Mechanical Energy
(B)

Increasing Increasing Constant

Rocket Kinetic Energy System Gravitational Potential Energy System Mechanical Energy
(C)

Increasing Decreasing Decreasing

Rocket Kinetic Energy System Gravitational Potential Energy System Mechanical Energy
(D)

Decreasing Increasing Constant

52. A simple pendulum consists of a sphere tied to the end of a string of negligible mass. The sphere is pulled back until
the string is horizontal and then released from rest. Assume gravitational potential energy is zero when the sphere is
at its lowest point. What angle will the string make with the horizontal when the kinetic energy and the potential
energy of the sphere-Earth system are equal?
(A) Greater than
(B) Equal to
(C) Less than
(D) It cannot be determined without knowing the mass of the sphere.

53. An asteroid orbits the Sun in a highly elliptical orbit. As the asteroid gets closer to the Sun, how are the total
mechanical energy and the gravitational potential energy of the asteroid-Sun system changing, if at all?

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Total Mechanical Energy Gravitational Potential Energy

(A)

Not changing Not changing

Total Mechanical Energy Gravitational Potential Energy

(B)

Not changing Decreasing

Total Mechanical Energy Gravitational Potential Energy

(C)

Increasing Not changing

Total Mechanical Energy Gravitational Potential Energy

(D)

Increasing Decreasing

54. A ball is tossed straight up and later returns to the point from which it was launched. If the ball is subject to air
resistance as well as gravity, which of the following statements is correct?
The speed at which the ball returns to the point of launch is less than its speed when it was initially
(A)
launched.
(B) The time for the ball to fall is the same as the time for the ball to rise.
(C) The force of air resistance is directed down-ward both when the ball is rising and when it is falling.
(D) The net work done by air resistance on the ball during its flight is zero.
(E) The net work done by gravity on the ball during its flight is greater than zero.

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55.

A block can slide along the frictionless track shown above. A student moves the block along the track so
that the block has the same speed at point , point , and point . The work done by the student on the block as it
moves from to is most nearly
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

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56.

Interval Mechanical Energy Dissipated due to Friction

1
2
3
4

A block slides down an inclined plane whose roughness varies. Only during time interval 1 does the block slide
with negligible friction. The coefficient of kinetic friction during time interval 3 is twice the coefficient of kinetic
friction during time interval 2. The graph shows the block’s velocity as a function of time. The table lists the
mechanical energy dissipated due to friction over the different time intervals. Which of the following claims is true?
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

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57. A person holds a book at rest a few feet above a table. The person then lowers the book at a slow constant speed and
places it on the table. Which of the following accurately describes the change in the total mechanical energy of the
Earth-book system?
The total mechanical energy is unchanged, because there is no change in the book’s kinetic energy as it
(A)
is lowered to the table.
The total mechanical energy is unchanged, because no work is done on the Earth-book system while the
(B)
book is lowered.
The total mechanical energy decreases, because the person does positive work on the book by exerting a
(C)
force that opposes the gravitational force.
The total mechanical energy decreases, because the person does negative work on the book by exerting a
(D)
force on the book in the direction opposite to its displacement.

58.
Cart Mass Applied Time Force is Final Momentum Final Kinetic
Force Exerted Energy

Two frictionless lab carts start from rest and are pushed along a level surface by a constant force. Students measure
the magnitude and duration of the force on each cart, as shown in the partially completed data table above, and
calculate final kinetic energy and momentum. Which cart has a greater kinetic energy at the end of the push?
(A) The cart
(B) The cart
(C) Both carts have the same amount of kinetic energy.
The relationship cannot be determined without knowing the distance each cart moved as the force was
(D)
being applied.

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The graph above shows velocity v as a function of time t for a 0.50 kg object traveling along a straight line. The graph has
three segments labeled 1, 2, and 3. A rope exerts a constant force of magnitude FT on the object along its direction of
motion the whole time. During segment 2 only, a frictional force of magnitude Ff is also exerted on the object.

59. For another identical object initially at rest, no frictional force is exerted during segment 2 (between t = 2 s and t = 4
s). A rope exerts the same constant force of magnitude FT as in the previous scenario. What is the change in the
object's kinetic energy during segment 2?
(A) 3.75 J
(B) 4.00 J
(C) 12.0 J
(D) 16.0 J

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60.

A vertical spring has unstretched length , as shown in Figure . A block is attached to the top of the spring and
slowly lowered until it is at rest and the spring has length , as shown in Figure . The block is then pushed down
until the spring is compressed to length , as shown in Figure , and then released. After release, at what
height will the kinetic energy of the block be maximum?
(A)
(B)

(C)
(D)

61.

A cart is moving on a level track in the positive x-direction. A force acting parallel to the x-axis is exerted on the
cart. The graph above shows the net force exerted on the cart as a function of displacement. As the cart travels from
x = 0 m to x = 4 m , what is the net change in the kinetic energy of the cart?
(A) An increase of 20 J
(B) An increase of 10 J
(C) A decrease of 20 J
(D) A decrease of 10 J

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A cylinder at rest is released from the top of a ramp, as shown above. The ramp is 1.0 m high, and the cylinder rolls down
the ramp without slipping. At the bottom of the ramp, the cylinder makes a smooth transition to a small section of a
horizontal table and then travels over the edge at a height of 1.0 m above the floor, eventually landing on the floor at a
horizontal distance of 1.5 m from the table.

62. A sphere with the same mass and radius as the original cylinder, but a smaller rotational inertia, is released from rest
from the top of the ramp. Ks and Kc are the sphere’s and the cylinder’s total kinetic energy at the bottom of the
ramp, respectively. How do Ks and Kc compare, and why?
(A) Ks < Kc, because the sphere will gain less rotational kinetic energy.
(B) Ks < Kc, because the sphere has a greater acceleration and therefore has less time to gain kinetic energy.
(C) Ks = Kc, because both objects accelerate at the same rate.

(D) Ks = Kc , because the gravitational force does equal work on each object as it rolls down the ramp.

63. After the cylinder leaves the table, but before it lands, how do the rotational kinetic energy and translational kinetic
energy of the cylinder change, if at all?

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Rotational Kinetic Energy Translational Kinetic Energy

(A)

Increases Increases

Rotational Kinetic Energy Translational Kinetic Energy

(B)

Increases Stays the same

Rotational Kinetic Energy Translational Kinetic Energy

(C)

Stays the same Increases

Rotational Kinetic Energy Translational Kinetic Energy

(D)

Stays the same Stays the same

64. As the cylinder rolls down the ramp, how do the potential energy of the cylinder-Earth system and the kinetic
energy of the cylinder change, if at all?

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Potential Energy of Cylinder-Earth System Kinetic Energy of Cylinder

(A)
Stays the same Increases

Potential Energy of Cylinder-Earth System Kinetic Energy of Cylinder

(B)

Stays the same Decreases

Potential Energy of Cylinder-Earth System Kinetic Energy of Cylinder

(C)

Decreases Increases

Potential Energy of Cylinder-Earth System Kinetic Energy of Cylinder

(D)

Decreases Decreases

65. Which of the following is constant for an object in uniform circular motion?

(A) Kinetic energy

(B) Velocity
(C) Acceleration
(D) Displacement
(E) Linear momentum

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66.

The figure above shows the net force exerted on an object as a function of the position of the object. The object
starts from rest at position x = 0 m and acquires a speed of 3.0 m / s after traveling a distance of 0.090 m. What is
the mass of the object?
(A) 0.015 kg
(B) 0.030 kg
(C) 0.045 kg
(D) 0.060 kg

Refer to the following material to answer the group of questions.

A student is observing an object of unknown mass that is oscillating horizontally at the end of an ideal spring. The student
measures the object’s period of oscillation with a stopwatch.

67. Using a number of measurements, the student determines the following.

The total energy of the object-spring system is most nearly

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(A) 0.98 J
(B) 3.8 J
(C) 7.6 J
(D) 12.8 J

68. An object is moving to the right with speed vi when a force of magnitude F is exerted on it. In which of the
following situations is the object’s direction of motion changing and kinetic energy decreasing at the instant shown?

(A)

(B)

(C)

(D)

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Refer to the following material for answering the questions.

A cart is constrained to move along a straight line. A varying net force along the direction of motion is exerted on the cart.
The cart’s velocity v as a function of time t is shown in the graph above. The five labeled points divide the graph into four
sections.

69. During some part of the motion, the work done on the cart is negative. What feature of the motion indicates this?
(A) The speed is increasing.
(B) The speed is decreasing.
(C) The acceleration is positive.
(D) The acceleration is negative.

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70.

A disk is sliding to the west with speed , as shown in the figure above. As the disk slides by, a child will use a
rubber mallet to hit the disk at one of the four labeled points. The child will exert a force directly toward the center
of the disk. To change the kinetic energy of the disk by the smallest amount, the child should hit the disk at which
point?
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

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71.

A satellite in a circular orbit around Earth is initially not rotating with respect to its center of mass. Two identical
thrusters on opposite sides of the satellite fire in opposite directions over the same -minute time interval, as
shown above, and then turn off. How does the firing of the thrusters affect the mechanical energy of the satellite-
Earth system and the shape of the satellite’s orbit, if at all?

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Mechanical Energy of Satellite-Earth System Shape of Orbit

(A)

No effect No effect

Mechanical Energy of Satellite-Earth System Shape of Orbit

(B)

No effect Would change

Mechanical Energy of Satellite-Earth System Shape of Orbit

(C)

Increases No effect

Mechanical Energy of Satellite-Earth System Shape of Orbit

(D)

Increases Would change

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72.

The energy bar charts shown in the figure indicate the gravitational potential energy and total kinetic energy
for a system at two different times, and a later time . The tables describe four different situations.

For which of the situations could the energy bar charts accurately depict and at the two times? Select two
answers.

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(A) Situation A
(B) Situation B
(C) Situation C
(D) Situation D

73.

A person holds a 4.0 kg block at position A shown above on the left, in contact with an uncompressed vertical
spring with a spring constant of 500 N/m. The person gently lowers the block from rest at position A to rest at
position B. Which of the following describes the change in the energy of the block-spring-Earth system as a result
of the block being lowered?

(A) The energy decreases by approximately 1.5 J.

(B) The energy decreases by approximately 2.5 J.
(C) The energy increases by approximately 4.0 J.
(D) The energy of the system does not change.

74. A test car and its driver, with a combined mass of , are moving along a straight, horizontal track when a
malfunction causes the tires to stop rotating. The car skids to a halt with constant acceleration, leaving skid marks
on the road during the whole time it skids. Which two of the following measurements, taken together, would allow
engineers to find the total mechanical energy dissipated during the skid? Select two answers.
(A) The length of the skid marks
(B) The contact area of each tire with the track
(C) The coefficient of static friction between the tires and the track
(D) The coefficient of kinetic friction between the tires and the track

75. While traveling in its elliptical orbit around the Sun, Mars gains speed during the part of the orbit where it is getting
closer to the Sun. Which of the following can be used to explain this gain in speed?

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As Mars gets closer to the Sun, the Mars–Sun system loses potential energy and Mars gains kinetic
(A)
energy.
A component of the gravitational force exerted on Mars is perpendicular to the direction of motion,
(B)
causing an acceleration and hence a gain in speed along that direction.
The torque exerted on Mars by the Sun during this segment of the orbit increases the Mars–Sun system’s
(C)
angular momentum.
The centripetal force exerted on Mars is greater than the gravitational force during this segment of the
(D)
orbit, causing Mars to gain speed as it gets closer to the Sun.

76.

A block attached to a spring slides along a straight track with negligible friction, as shown in the figure above. The
graph shows the force exerted by the spring on the block as a function of the block’s displacement from
equilibrium. The block is displaced a distance to the right and released from rest. Which of the following are
correct statements about the work done by the spring on the block between the moment of release and the moment it
next comes to rest? Select two answers.
(A) The work done is zero.
(B) The work done is .
(C) The work done is the area under the graph between and .
(D) The work done is twice the area under the graph between and .

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77.

A box experiences a varying net force that changes its velocity. The graph shows the velocity of the box as a
function of time.

Which of the following correctly describes the net work, , done on the box for the given intervals of time?

Between and Between and Between and

(A)

Between and Between and Between and

(B)

Between and Between and Between and

(C)

Between and Between and Between and

(D)

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78.

A force is applied continuously to a box initially at rest on a horizontal surface. The box slides with negligible
friction for equal distances and , as shown. How does the kinetic energy gained by the block over distance
interval , , compare to the kinetic energy gained over distance interval , , and why?
(A) , because the velocity increases by the same amount over intervals and .
(B) , because the applied force does the same work on the block over intervals and .
(C) , because the block is moving faster on average over interval .
(D) , because the rate of change of kinetic energy is greater over interval .

79.

A block is set on a table, where there is negligible friction between the block and the table. The block is connected
to an identical hanging block by a lightweight string that passes over an ideal pulley as shown. When the blocks are
released from rest, the two-block system gains kinetic energy because work is done on the system. Which type of
force or forces make a nonzero contribution to the net work done on the two-block system?
(A) Gravitational force only
(B) Gravitational force and tension only
(C) Gravitational force and normal force only
(D) Gravitational force, tension, and normal force

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80. A student is asked to determine the work done on a block of wood when the block is pulled horizontally using an
attached string. The student is supplied with a spring scale, a stopwatch, and a meterstick. Which of the following
graphical analysis techniques will allow the student to determine the work done on the block by the string?
(A) Graphing the force as a function of time and calculating the slope
(B) Graphing the force as a function of time and calculating the area under the curve
(C) Graphing the force as a function of distance and calculating the slope
(D) Graphing the force as a function of distance and calculating the area under the curve

An object of mass m is initially at rest and free to move without friction in any direction in the xy-plane. A constant net
force of magnitude F directed in the +x direction acts on the object for 1 s. Immediately thereafter a constant net force of
the same magnitude F directed in the +y direction acts on the object for 1 s. After this, no forces act on the object.

81. Which of the following graphs best represents the kinetic energy K of the object as a function of time?

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(A)

(B)

(C)

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(D)

(E)

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82.

Three spheres, with masses indicated above, are initially far away from each other, and the gravitational potential
energy of the three-sphere system is zero. The spheres are then brought together until each sphere is a distance r
from the other two, as shown above. What is the new gravitational potential energy of the three-sphere system?
(A)
(B)
(C)

(D)

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83.

Two blocks, of mass m and 2m, are initially at rest on a horizontal frictionless surface. A force F is exerted
individually on each block, as shown above. The graph shows how F varies with time t. Which block has the
greatest average power provided to it between t = 0 s and t = 3 s?

(A) The block of mass m

(B) The block of mass 2m

(C) Both blocks have the same power provided to them.
(D) It cannot be determined without knowing the ratio of the maximum force to the mass m.

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84.

The figure above shows the paths of two stars of equal mass as they orbit their common center of mass. The
positions of the stars at four different times are labeled in the figure. At which of the positions do the stars have their
greatest speed?
(A) Position 2 only
(B) Position 4 only
(C) Positions 1 and 3 only
(D) All of the positions, since the stars move with constant speed

Refer to the following material for answering group of questions.

A crate is on a horizontal frictionless surface. A force of magnitude F is exerted on the crate at an angle θ to the
horizontal, as shown in the figure above, causing the crate to slide to the right. The surface exerts a normal force of
magnitude FN on the crate. As the crate slides a distance d, it gains an amount of kinetic energy ∆K. While F is kept
constant, the angle θ is now doubled but is still less than 90o. Assume the crate remains in contact with the surface.

85. As the crate slides a distance d, how does the new gain in kinetic energy compare to ∆K?

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(A) The new gain is greater than ∆K.

(B) The new gain is less than ∆K
(C) The new gain is equal to ∆K.
(D) The new gain is greater or less than ∆K depending on the value of θ

86.

A student is asked to move a box from ground level to the top of a loading dock platform, as shown in the figures
above. In Figure 1, the student pushes the box up an incline with negligible friction. In Figure 2, the student lifts the
box straight up from ground level to the loading dock platform. In which case does the student do more work on the
box, and why?
(A) Lifting the box straight up, because it requires a larger applied force to lift it straight up
(B) Pushing the box up the incline, because the force is applied for a longer distance
(C) Lifting the box straight up, because the incline acts as a simple machine and reduces the force required
Neither method, because the work is the same in both cases, since using the ramp decreases the force by
(D)
the same factor that it increases the distance

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87.

A force F is exerted on a 5 kg block to move it across a rough surface, as shown above. The magnitude of the force
is initially 5 N, and the block moves at a constant velocity. While the block is moving, the force is instantaneously
increased to 12 N. How much kinetic energy does the block now gain as it moves a distance of 2 m?
(A) 10 J
(B) 14 J
(C) 24 J
(D) 34 J

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An amusement park ride consists of a large vertical wheel of radius that rotates counterclockwise on a horizontal axis
through its center, as shown above. The cars on the wheel move at a constant speed . Points and represent the
position of a car at the highest and lowest point of the ride, respectively. A person of weight sits upright on a seat in
one of the cars. As the seat passes point , the seat exerts a normal force with magnitude on the person. While
passing point , the person releases a small rock of mass , which falls to the ground without hitting anything.

88. The kinetic energy of the rock when it is at the same height as point is most nearly
(A)
(B)
(C)

(D)

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89.

A box of mass m is initially at rest at the top of a ramp that is at an angle θ with the horizontal. The block is at a
height h and length L from the bottom of the ramp. The block is released and slides down the ramp. The coefficient
of kinetic friction between the block and the ramp is µ .

What is the kinetic energy of the box at the bottom of the ramp?
(A) mgh
(B) µmgL cos θ

(C) mgh - µmgL cos θ

(D) mgL - µmgh cos θ

90. In which of the following situations is the kinetic energy of the object decreasing?
(A) A sphere is dropped from a building.
(B) A satellite is moving in a circular orbit around Earth.
(C) A baseball is heading upward after being thrown at an angle.
(D) An elevator is moving upward at a constant velocity.

91.

A block on a horizontal surface of negligible friction is placed in contact with an ideal spring, as shown above. The
block is moved to the left so that the spring is compressed a distance x from equilibrium and then released from rest.
The block has kinetic energy K1 when it separates from the spring. When the spring is compressed a distance 2x and
the block is released from rest, the kinetic energy of the block when it separates from the spring is
(A) K1/2
(B) K1
(C) √2K1
(D) 2K1
(E) 4K1

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A rock of mass m is thrown horizontally off a building from a height h, as shown above. The speed of the rock as it leaves
the thrower's hand at the edge of the building is vo

92. What is the kinetic energy of the rock just before it hits the ground?
(A) mgh
(B)
(C)

(D)

(E)

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The graph above shows the potential energy of a system as one object in the system moves along the -axis and the rest
of the system does not move. Six evenly-spaced points along the -axis are labeled. At point , the object is moving in
the positive -direction and the mechanical energy of the system is . As the object moves, no energy enters or leaves
the system.

93. What is the kinetic energy of the object at point ?

(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

94. In which segment does the net force exerted on the object have the greatest magnitude?
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

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95.

The graph above shows the force exerted by a spring as a function of the length of the spring. A block on a
frictionless table is pushed against the spring that is fastened to a wall. The spring is compressed until its length is
20 cm. The block is then released. Which of the following values is closest to the kinetic energy with which the
block leaves the spring?

(A) 3J
(B) 6J
(C) 12 J
(D) 15 J

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An object of mass m is attached to a spring on a frictionless inclined plane that makes an angle θ with the horizontal, as
shown above. The object is released from rest with the spring in its unstretched position. As the object moves on the
plane, its displacement from the unstretched position is x.

96. What is the magnitude of the work done by gravity as the object slides down the incline?

(A) mgx sinθ

(B) mgx cos θ
(C) mgx sinθ cosθ
(D)
(E)

97.

A block of mass slides with speed along a frictionless, horizontal surface toward an unstretched spring attached
to a wall, as shown above. The block compresses the spring a maximum distance . Which of the following
values of block mass and initial speed would result in the same maximum compression distance for the spring?

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Block Mass Initial Speed

(A)

Block Mass Initial Speed

(B)

Block Mass Initial Speed

(C)

Block Mass Initial Speed

(D)

98.

A 50 kg athlete running at speed v grabs a light rope that hangs from a 10-meter-high platform and swings to a
maximum of 1.8 m above the ground. Later, a 100 kg athlete, running at the same speed, grabs a similar rope
hanging from a 5-meter-high platform. What is the maximum height to which the 100 kg athlete swings?

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(A) 0.9 m
(B) 1.8 m
(C) 2.5 m
(D) 3.6 m

99.

An athlete with mass m running at speed v grabs a light rope that hangs from a ceiling of height H and swings to a
maximum height of h1. In another room with a lower ceiling of height H/2 , a second athlete with mass 2m running
at the same speed v grabs a light rope hanging from the ceiling and swings to a maximum height of h2 . How does
the maximum height reached by the two athletes compare, and why?
(A) The first athlete reaches a greater height, because this athlete swings on a longer rope.
(B) The second athlete reaches a greater height, because this athlete has a greater mass.
The two athletes reach the same height, because the effect of the rope length offsets the effect of the
(C)
athletes’ masses.
(D) The two athletes reach the same height, because the athletes run with the same speed.

100. A rubber ball with mass 0.20 kg is dropped vertically from a height of 1.5 m above a floor. The ball bounces off of
the floor, and during the bounce 0.60 J of energy is dissipated. What is the maximum height of the ball after the
bounce?
(A) 0.30 m
(B) 0.90 m
(C) 1.2 m
(D) 1.5 m

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The pendulum illustrated above has a length of 2 m and a bob of mass 0.04 kg. It is held at an angle Ѳ, as shown, where
cosѲ = 0.9.

101. If the pendulum is released from rest, the maximum speed the bob attains is most nearly
(A) 1 m/s
(B) m/s

(C) 2 m/s

(D) 4 m/s
(E) 6 m/s

102. Some students want to calculate the work done by friction as an object with unknown mass moves along a straight
line on a rough horizontal surface. The students have a force probe, a meterstick, and a stopwatch. Which of the
following will allow the students to take the measurements needed to calculate the work done by friction?
(A) Pulling the block at an unknown constant acceleration with the force probe for a measured time
(B) Pulling the block at an unknown constant speed with the force probe for a measured time
(C) Pulling the block at an unknown constant acceleration with the force probe for a measured distance
(D) Pulling the block at an unknown constant speed with the force probe for a measured distance

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103.

A block is released from rest and slides down a frictionless ramp inclined at 30° from the horizontal. When the
block reaches the bottom, the block-Earth system has mechanical energy E0. The experiment is repeated, but now
horizontal and vertical forces of magnitude F are exerted on the block while it slides, as shown above. When the
block reaches the bottom, the mechanical energy of the block-Earth system

(A) is greater than E0

(B) is equal to E0
(C) is less than E0
(D) cannot be determined without knowing F

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104.

A block is set on a rough horizontal table where frictional forces are not negligible. The block is pushed against a
horizontal spring, and it is released at time . The spring pushes the block across the table. At time , the
block leaves the table. The block strikes the ground at time . Which of the following describes the change in
mechanical energy of the block-spring system for times and ?

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(A)

Stays the same Stays the same

(B)

Increases Decreases

(C)

Stays the same Increases

(D)

Decreases Increases

105. A ball is dropped from rest and falls to the floor. The initial gravitational potential energy of the ball-Earth-floor
system is 10 J. The ball then bounces back up to a height where the gravitational potential energy is 7 J. What was
the mechanical energy of the ball-Earth-floor system the instant the ball left the floor?
(A) 0 J
(B) 3 J
(C) 7 J
(D) 10 J

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106.

A planet is in an elliptical orbit around a star, as shown above. Which of the following best represents the
mechanical energy Eplanet of just the planet and the mechanical energy Estar-planet of the star-planet system as
functions of time for one complete orbit?

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(A)

(B)

(C)

(D)

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107.

A box is pushed from rest across a horizontal surface where friction between the box and the surface is
negligible. Students record the applied force at several equally spaced positions while pushing the box and create
the graph shown. The change in momentum of the box is most nearly
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

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108.

An object is moving along a straight, flat section of track. The net force acting on the object as a function of
position is shown in the graph, where the positive direction is in the direction of motion of the object. Assuming the
object moves from position to without stopping or moving backward, which of the following
statements about its motion are correct? Select two answers.
(A) The object has its greatest kinetic energy at position .
(B) The kinetic energy of the object at position is greater than .

(C) The object has the same kinetic energy at position that it has at position .
(D) The kinetic energy of the object is not changing when it is between positions and .

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109.

An object is moving in the positive x-direction while a net force directed along the x-axis is exerted on the object.
The figure above shows the force as a function of position. What is the net work done on the object over the
distance shown?

(A) F0d
(B) 3F0d/2
(C) 2F0d
(D) 4F0d

110. A nonrotating spherical planet with no atmosphere has mass M and radius R. A projectile of mass m is launched
radially from the surface of the planet with initial speed . The potential energy of the projectile-
planet system, as a function of the projectile’s distance r from the center of the planet, is given by U = - GMm/
r. The greatest distance from the center of the planet that the projectile reaches is
(A) infinity
(B) R
(C)

(D)

(E)

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111.

An object moves in a straight line along a horizontal surface. The position of the object as a function of time is
shown by the graph. Which of the following statements are true for the object? Select two answers.
(A) The kinetic energy of the object decreases from to .
(B) The change in momentum of the object from to is equal to zero.

(C) The work done on the object from to is equal to zero.

(D) The impulse given to the object from to is nonzero.

112. An apple is released from rest 500 m above the ground. Due to the combined forces of air resistance and gravity, it
has a speed of 40 m s when it reaches the ground. What percentage of the initial mechanical energy of the apple-
Earth system was dissipated due to air resistance? Take the potential energy of the apple-Earth system to be zero
when the apple reaches the ground.
(A) 16%
(B) 40%
(C) 60%
(D) 84%

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113.

A constant force of 900 N pushes a 100 kg mass up the inclined plane shown above at a uniform speed of 4 m/s.
The power developed by the 900 N force is most nearly
(A) 400 W
(B) 800 W
(C) 900 W
(D) 1000 W
(E) 3600 W

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114.

An object hangs in equilibrium from a spring, as shown above. The object is then displaced to one of the labeled
points , , or . Which of the following correctly ranks the elastic potential energy stored in the spring when
the object is at each of the three positions?
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

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115.

A 10 kg block is attached to a light cord that is wrapped around the pulley of an electric motor,
as shown above. At what rate is the motor doing work when it is pulling the block upward with an instantaneous
speed of 3 m/s and an upward acceleration of 2 m/s2 ?
(A) 120 W
(B) 240 W
(C) 300 W
(D) 360 W
(E) 600 W

116. What is the ratio of the kinetic energy of an object of mass 3m moving at speed 2v to an object of mass m/2 moving
at a speed v?
(A) 2
(B) 3
(C) 6
(D) 12
(E) 24

117.

A child slides from rest down slides A and B shown above. The slides are the same height, and the coefficient of
friction between the slides and the child is the same. Which of the following compares the change ∆K in the kinetic
energy of the child and the change ∆U in the potential energy of the child-Earth system for the two slides?

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(A) ∆KA = ∆KB; ∆UA = ∆UB

(B) ∆KA < ∆KB; ∆UA > ∆UB
(C) ∆KA > ∆KB; ∆UA = ∆UB
(D) ∆KA > ∆KB; ∆UA > ∆UB

118.

Using the three methods shown above, a small block is raised from rest on the ground until it is again at rest a
distance above the ground. In method a rope pulls the block straight up, and in methods and the block is
pushed up frictionless ramps of different lengths. Which of the following ranks the total work done on the block
by external forces as the block is raised using each method?
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

119.

Two objects are released from rest at the top of ramps with the same dimensions, as shown in the figure above. The
sphere rolls down one ramp without slipping. The small block slides down the other ramp without friction. Which
object reaches the bottom of its ramp first, and why?
(A) The sphere, because it gains rotational kinetic energy, but the block does not
(B) The sphere, because it gains mechanical energy due to the torque exerted on it, but the block does not
(C) The block, because it does not lose mechanical energy due to friction, but the sphere does
(D) The block, because it does not gain rotational kinetic energy, but the sphere does

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120.

A disk is able to move on a straight, level track with negligible friction. With the disk initially at rest, a
horizontal force is applied to the disk. The force is measured as a function of the disk’s displacement, and the data
are shown in the graph. When the disk’s displacement is , the speed of the disk is most nearly
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

121.

A 2.5 g marshmallow is placed in one end of a 40 cm pipe, as shown in the figure above. A person blows into the
left end of the pipe to eject the marshmallow from the right end. The average net force exerted on the marshmallow
while it is in the pipe is 0.7 N. The speed of the marshmallow as it leaves the pipe is most nearly
(A) 4.7 m/s
(B) 11 m/s
(C) 15 m/s
(D) 280 m/s

122. An automobile traveling on a straight, level road has an initial speed v when the brakes are applied. In coming to
rest with a constant acceleration, it travels a distance x. How far would the automobile travel in coming to rest if it
had the same acceleration but an initial speed 2v ?

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(A)
(B)
(C) x
(D) 2x
(E) 4x

123.

The diagram shows the forces exerted on a block that starts from rest and speeds up as it moves down a rough
incline near Earth’s surface. Which of the following statements are true? Select two answers.
(A) The momentum of Earth remains constant as the block slides down the incline.
(B) The total mechanical energy of the block-Earth system decreases as the block slides down the incline.

(C) The momentum of the block increases as the block slides down the incline.
The total mechanical energy of the block-Earth system remains constant as the block slides down the
(D)
incline.

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124.

The pendulum shown in the figure above reaches a maximum height h above the equilibrium position as it
oscillates. Assuming friction and air resistance are negligible, which of the following is true about the total energy
of the Earth-pendulum system as the pendulum oscillates?
(A) It is at a maximum when the pendulum is at its lowest position.
(B) It is at a maximum when the pendulum is at its maximum height h.
(C) It is constant throughout the pendulum’s motion.
(D) It is at a minimum when the pendulum is somewhere between its lowest and highest positions.

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125.

Block is set on a rough horizontal table and is connected to a horizontal spring that is fixed to a wall, as shown.
Block is then also connected to hanging block by a lightweight string that passes over an ideal pulley, as
shown. The friction force exerted on block A by the table is not negligible. The blocks are initially held at rest so
that the spring is not stretched. When the blocks are released, hanging block moves downward and block on
the table moves to the right until the system comes again to rest. Let be the mechanical energy of the blocks-
spring system, and let be the mechanical energy of the blocks-spring-Earth system. How do these two energies
change from when the blocks are held at rest to when the blocks come to rest again?

Blocks-Spring System Blocks-Springs-Earth System

A Increases Decreases
B Decreases Increases
C Remains constant Decreases
D Remains constant Remains constant

(A) A
(B) B
(C) C
(D) D

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126.

Two identical blocks are connected by a lightweight string that passes over a lightweight pulley that can rotate
about its axle with negligible friction. The two-block system is released from rest and the blocks accelerate. Which
of the following correctly relates the potential energy gained by the block 1-Earth system to the potential
energy lost by the block 2-Earth system and provides correct evidence?
(A) , because both blocks travel the same distance.
(B) , because both blocks gain the same amount of kinetic energy.

(C) , because the two-block system gains kinetic energy.

, because the tension exerted on block 1 by the string is less than the tension exerted on
(D)
block 2 by the string.

127.

Identical blocks and are initially at rest on ramps inclined at different angles and with their centers of mass at
the same height, as shown above. The ramps are frictionless except for rough sections and represented by the
jagged lines, which have the same coefficient of kinetic friction. The blocks are released. How do the speeds of the
blocks compare when they are at the locations represented by the dashed rectangles at the bottom of each ramp?

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(A) Block has a greater speed.

(B) Block has a greater speed.
(C) The blocks have the same speed.
The speeds cannot be compared without knowing the angles of the ramps or the coefficient of kinetic
(D)
friction in sections and .

128. Two identical spaceships are moving through space both with speed . Both spaceships experience a net force of
magnitude over the same time interval. For spaceship , the net force acts in the same direction as the spaceship
is moving; for spaceship , the net force is directed opposite to the spaceship’s motion, causing spaceship to slow
down but not stop. For which spaceship, if either, does the kinetic energy change by a greater magnitude, and why?
Spaceship will have a greater change in kinetic energy because the distance traveled is greater than
(A)
that of spaceship .
(B) Spaceship will have a greater change in kinetic energy because the force slows down the spaceship.
(C) Spaceship and have the same change in kinetic energy because the time and the force are the same.
Spaceship and have the same change in kinetic energy because the net work done on each has the
(D)
same magnitude.

129.

A block of mass is at rest on top of a spring of spring constant as shown above. The block is then pushed down
a distance below its initial position and released from rest. What is the block’s kinetic energy when it first
returns to position ?
(A)
(B)

(C)
(D)

130. A sled slides down a hill with friction between the sled and hill but negligible air resistance. Which of the following
must be correct about the resulting change in energy of the sled-Earth system?

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The sum of the kinetic energy and the gravitational potential energy changes by an amount equal to the
(A)
energy dissipated by friction.
(B) The gravitational potential energy decreases and the kinetic energy is constant.
(C) The decrease in the gravitational potential energy is equal to the increase in kinetic energy.
(D) The gravitational potential energy and the kinetic energy must both decrease.

Refer to the following material to give answers to the group of questions.

Three identical blocks each take a different path from a height h to the ground. Block A is released from rest and falls
vertically. Block B is released from rest and slides down a frictionless incline. Block C is projected horizontally with an
initial speed v.

131. Which block has the greatest speed just before hitting the ground?
(A) A
(B) B
(C) C
(D) The blocks reach the ground with the same speed.

Two blocks are connected by a string with negligible mass that passes over a pulley with nonzero rotational inertia , as
shown above. The axle of the pulley has negligible friction. The string does not slip on the pulley. Block has mass
and block has mass . An additional force with magnitude is initially exerted on block so that the blocks do not
move and is then removed.

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132. After the additional force is removed, what happens to the gravitational potential energy of the pulley-blocks-Earth
system?
(A) It remains constant and zero.
(B) It remains constant but is greater than zero.
(C) It increases.
(D) It decreases.

133. A student uses a spring scale to exert a horizontal force on a block, pulling the block over a smooth floor. The
student repeats the procedure several times, each time pulling the block from rest through a distance of 1.0 m. For
which of the following graphs of force as a function of distance will the block be moving the fastest at the end of
the 1.0 m?

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(A)

(B)

(C)

(D)

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134.

A ball is suspended by a lightweight string, as shown in the figure above. The ball is displaced to position 1 and
released. The four labeled positions are evenly spaced along the arc of the ball’s motion. Between which adjacent
pairs of positions is the change in kinetic energy of the ball greatest?

(A) 1 and 2
(B) 2 and 3
(C) 3 and 4
(D) The change is the same for all adjacent pairs.

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A block released from rest at position A slides with negligible friction down an inclined track, around a vertical loop, and
then along a horizontal portion of the track, as shown above. The block never leaves the track.

135. The gravitational potential energy and the kinetic energy of the block are most nearly equal at which position?
(Consider the potential energy to be zero at position B.)
(A) A
(B) B
(C) C
(D) D
(E) E

136. After the block is released, in which of the following sequences of positions is the speed of the block ordered from
fastest to slowest?
(A) B C D E
(B) B E C D
(C) D C E B
(D) E B C D
(E) E D C B

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137.

A block of mass 10 kg moves from position A to position B shown in the figure above. The speed of the block is 10
m/s at A and 4.0 m/s at B. The work done by friction on the block as it moves from A to B is most nearly
(A) -280 J
(B) -220 J
(C) -200 J
(D) 0 J

138.

The graphs above show the magnitude F of a force exerted on an object as a function of the object’s position x for
two trials in an experiment. W1 and W2 are the work done on the object by force 1 and force 2, respectively. How
do W1 and W2 compare, and why?
(A) W1 > W2 , because the maximum value of force 1 is greater than the maximum value of force 2.
(B) W1 > W2 , because the slope of force 1’s graph increases, while the slope of force 2’s graph decreases.

(C) W1 < W2 , because the average value of force 1 is smaller than the average value of force 2.

(D) W1 < W2 , because at the midpoint, x = 0.5 m , the value of force 1 is less than the value of force 2.

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Three identical rocks are launched with identical speeds from the top of a platform of height 0 h . The rocks are launched
in the directions indicated above.

139. Rock 1, of mass m, reaches a maximum height hmax after being launched. During the time between the instant rock
1 is launched from height h0 and the instant it returns to height h0, the work done on the rock by the gravitational
force is

(A) 0
(B) -mgh0
(C) -mg(hmax -h0)
(D) 2mg(hmax -h0)

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