Engineering Mechanics : Module-7

Force, Impulse and Momentum

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Force: Force is an external agent which tends to change the state of rest or of uniform motion
of a system. It is a vector quantity specified completely by its magnitude, direction, point of
application and line of action.

Newton’s second law of motion provides the relationship between Motion and Force. It
states that, “Force is proportional to the rate of change of momentum.” That is,

Force ∝ Rate of Change of Momentum ……… (1)

Momentum: Momentum is the product of Mass and Velocity of a body. It represents the
energy of motion stored in a body. It is also a vector quantity.

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𝑑 𝑑
From (1): 𝐹∝ (𝑚𝑉) = 𝑚 (𝑉) = 𝑚𝑎
𝑑𝑡 𝑑𝑡

𝒎𝒂
⇒ 𝑭 ∝ 𝒎𝒂 ⇒ 𝑭 = … … … (2)
𝒈𝒄

Here, 𝑔𝑐 is proportionality constant.

Units of Force:
• SI unit of force is Newton (N). 1 N is the force required to accelerate 1 kg mass with an
acceleration of 1 m/s2. Therefore,

1 𝑘𝑔×1 𝑚⁄𝑠2
1N= ⇒ 𝒈𝒄 = 𝟏 𝒌𝒈 𝒎⁄𝒔𝟐
𝑔𝑐

As such, 𝑔𝑐 becomes unity for defining the unit of force in Newton and accordingly
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dropped.

∴ F = ma and 1 N = 1 kg-m/s2 ; Dimension is [M L T–2]

• Force is also measured in Gravitational Units and expressed as kilogram Force (kgf).

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1 kgf is the force when applied on a body of 1 kg mass produces an acceleration of

9.81 m/s2 which is equal to the acceleration due to gravitational force near the Earth’s

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surface.

∴ 1 kgf = 1 kg × 9.81 m/s2 => 1 kgf = 9.81 kg-m/s2 or 1 kgf = 9.81 N

Impulse: Impulse is the product of Force and Time during which it acts.

We know,
𝑑 𝑉𝑓 − 𝑉𝑖
𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎 = 𝑚 (𝑉) = 𝑚 ( ) … … … (3)
𝑑𝑡 𝑡
⇒ 𝑭 × 𝒕 = 𝒎(𝑽𝒇 − 𝑽𝒊 ) … … … (4)

Here, F × t is called the Impulse. Therefore, from equation (4) is called the
Impulse-Momentum relation.

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Impulse = Change in linear momentum

Vi and Vf are respectively the initial and final velocities. Accordingly mVi and mVf are the initial
and final momentums respectively.

• Equation (3) can be expressed as “The change in linear momentum per unit time is
proportional to the impressed force and takes place in the direction of force.”

• The concept of impulse is useful in solving problems when a large force acts for a very
short duration of time. eg. Sudden blow of a hammer striking a nail.

Law of Conservation of Momentum:

The law states that “Total momentum of any group of objects always remains the same if
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no external force acts on it.”

Let a body A of mass m1 moving with velocity u1 collides with another body B of mass m2
moving with velocity u2. Also let, v1 and v2 are the velocities of A and B respectively after the
collision. Then, According to the law of conservation of momentum,

Total momentum before collision = Total momentum after collision

=> m1u1 + m2u2 = m1v1 + m2v2

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Problem 7.1:

Determine the force necessary to produce an acceleration of 4 m/s2 in a mass of 250 kg.

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Solution: Given data, a = 4 m/s2 m = 250 kg

∴ F = ma = 250 × 4 => F = 1000 N

Problem 7.2:
A body of mass 160 kg is made to move with a velocity of 20 m/s when a force of 80 N acts on it
for 60 seconds. Make calculations for the velocity attained by the body when:
(a) The force acts in the direction of motion.
(b) The force acts in the direction opposite to that of motion.

Solution: Given data, m = 160 kg u = 20 m/s F = 80 N t = 60 s

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We know, F = ma => a = F/m = 80/160 => a = 0.5 m/s2

(a) When the force acts in the direction of motion (acceleration):

v = u + at = 20 + (0.5 × 60) = 20 + 30 => v = 50 m/s

(b) When the force acts in the direction opposite to that of motion (retardation):

v = u – at = 20 – (0.5 × 60) => v = –10 m/s

The –ve sign indicates retardation.

Problem 7.3:
A cricket ball of mass 175 gm is moving with a speed of 36 km/hr. What average force will be
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required to stop the ball in 0.2 seconds?

Solution: Given data, m = 175 gm = 175/1000 = 0.175 kg

u = 36 km/hr = (36×1000)/(60×60) = 10 m/s ; t = 0.2 s

Since the force is to be applied for a very small duration of time (t = 0.2 s) to stop the cricket
ball, therefore, the impulse-momentum relation can be used, which is,

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𝐹 × 𝑡 = 𝑚(𝑉𝑓 − 𝑉𝑖 )

⇒ 𝐹 × 0.2 = 0.175(0 − 10) ⇒ 𝑭 = −𝟖. 𝟕𝟓 𝐍

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The –ve sign indicates that the force is to be applied in opposite direction of motion.

Problem 7.4:
A pile hammer of 250 kg mass is made to fall freely on a pile from a height of 6 m. If the
hammer comes to rest in 0.012 seconds, determine the change in momentum, impulse and
average force.

Solution: Given data, m = 250 kg h=6m t = 0.012 s Clearly, u = 0

Since the hammer comes to rest after making the strike, this means that a large amount of force
has been exerted for a very small duration of time (t = 0.012 s). As such, the impulse-momentum

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equation can be used, which is,

𝐹 × 𝑡 = 𝑚(𝑉𝑓 − 𝑉𝑖 ) = 𝑚(𝑣 − 𝑢) = 𝑚(𝑣 − 0) ⇒ 𝑭 × 𝒕 = 𝒎𝒗 … … … (1)

Now, we have the relation,

𝑣 2 = 𝑢2 + 2𝑔ℎ = 0 + 2𝑔ℎ ⇒ 𝑣 = √2𝑔ℎ = √2 × 9.81 × 6 ⇒ 𝒗 = 𝟏𝟎. 𝟖𝟓 𝒎⁄𝒔

∴ Change in momentum = mv – mu = mv – 0 = mv = 250 × 10.85 = 2712.5 Ns

From the impulse-momentum equation, Impulse = Change in linear momentum

=> Impulse = 2712.5 Ns

𝑚𝑣 2712.5
∴ Average force, 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎 = = ⇒ 𝑭 = 𝟐𝟐𝟔𝟎𝟒𝟏. 𝟔𝟕 𝐍 = 𝟐𝟐𝟔. 𝟎𝟒 𝐤𝐍
𝑡 0.012 Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

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Problem 7.5:

A glass marble whose weight is 0.2 N falls from a height of 12 m and rebounds to a height of

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9 m. The marble and the floor remain in contact for 0.1 second. Determine the impulse and the
average force between the marble and the floor.

Solution: Given data, W = 0.2 N => mg = 0.2 => m = 0.2/9.81 kg

Free fall height, h1 = 12 m Rebound height, h2 = 9 m clearly, u = 0

Duration of contact with the floor, t = 0.1 s

∴ Velocity with which the marble strikes the floor is:

𝑣 = √2𝑔ℎ ⇒ 𝑣1 = √2 × 9.81 × 12 ⇒

𝒗𝟏 = 𝟏𝟓. 𝟑𝟒 𝒎⁄𝒔 (Downward)

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Since the rebound height is not equal to the initial free fall
height, therefore, the collision is not perfectly elastic and as
such some energy will be lost during the collision.
Therefore, the velocity of rebound (v2) will be less than the
velocity with which the marble strikes the ground (v1).

∴ Velocity of rebound is: 𝑣2 = √2 × 9.81 × 9

⇒ 𝒗𝟐 = 𝟏𝟑. 𝟐𝟗 𝒎⁄𝒔 (Upward)

Therefore, v1 = 15.34 m/s is the velocity before collision and v2 = 13.29 m/s is the velocity after
collision. Hence, from the impulse-momentum equation, we have,
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0.2
𝐹 × 𝑡 = 𝑚(𝑉𝑓 − 𝑉𝑖 ) = [13.29 − (−15.34)] ⇒ 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐮𝐬𝐞 = 𝟎. 𝟓𝟖𝟑𝟔 𝐍𝐬
9.81

0.5836 0.5836
⇒𝐹= = ⇒ 𝑭 = 𝟓. 𝟖𝟑𝟔 𝐍
𝑡 0.1

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Problem 7.6:

A man throws a 10 kg suitcase with a horizontal velocity of 4 m/s into a 25 kg platform trolley.

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Determine the velocity of the trolley after the suitcase has slid to strike the Stop barrier on the
trolley.

Solution: Let the suffixes 1 and 2 denote the suitcase and the trolley respectively. Therefore,

Given data, m1 = 10 kg u1 = 4 m/s m2 = 25 kg u2 = 0

Since there is collision occurring between the suitcase and the Stop barrier of the trolley,
therefore, we can use the conservation of momentum principle, which is,

Total momentum before collision = Total momentum after collision

=> m1u1 + m2u2 = m2v1 + m2v2

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=> m1u1 + m2u2 = (m1 + m2)V

Where, V is the common velocity with which the

trolley and the suitcase move together after the
collision.

=> (10×4) + (25×0) = (10+25)V => V = 1.143 m/s

Problem 7.7:
A 150 kg Scootorist is travelling with speed of 36 km/hr on a road that makes an angle of 30°
with another road upon which a 60 kg cyclist is travelling at 8 km/hr. When they approach the
crossing, they collide and move as one mass. Determine the final velocity; both in magnitude and
direction. Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Solution: Let the suffixes 1 and 2 refer to the Scootorist and the Cyclist respectively. Therefore,

Given data, m1 = 150 kg u1 = 36 km/hr = 10 m/s

m2 = 60 kg u2 = 8 km/hr = 20/9 m/s

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Since the Scootorist and the Cyclist are colliding at a particular point, therefore, we can use the
conservation of momentum principle. Also, let V be the common velocity of the Scootorist and

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the Cyclist with which they move together after the collision.

Now, Considering the Horizontal component of u1:

m1u1 cos θ + m2u2 = (m1 + m2)Vx

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=> [150×10 cos 30°] + [60×20/9] = (150+60) Vx

=> Vx = 6.82 m/s

Considering the Vertical component of u1:

m1u1 sin θ + m2u2 = (m1 + m2)Vy

=> [150×10 sin 30°] + [60×0] = (150+60) Vy

=> Vy = 3.57 m/s

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∴ Resultant Velocity, 𝑉𝑅 = √𝑉𝑥 2 + 𝑉𝑦 2 = √6.822 + 3.572 ⇒ 𝑽𝑹 = 𝟕. 𝟕𝟎 𝒎/𝒔

And, 𝜃 = tan−1 (𝑉𝑦 ⁄𝑉𝑥 ) = tan−1(3.57⁄6.82) ⇒ 𝜽 = 𝟐𝟕. 𝟔𝟑°

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Problem 7.8:
A block weighing 1.5 kN is initially at rest on a rough
horizontal surface (μ = 0.2). It is acted upon by a force P

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which varies with time as shown in Fig. 7.1. Determine
the velocity at the end of (a) 3 seconds, and (b) 6 seconds.

Solution: Given data,

W = 1.5 kN => m = 1500/9.81 kg ; μ = 0.2

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From the FBD: N = W and ∴ F = μN = μW = 0.2 × 1500 => F = 300 N

Since the initially applied force is 500 N which is greater than the maximum static friction value
of 300 N, therefore the body is already in motion. Also, from the 500 N applied force, 300 N has
been utilized to overcome the frictional resistance and the remaining 200 N force will keep the
body moving.

(a) Velocity at the end of 3 seconds:

From the given F-t graph, impulse is the area under the rectangle from 0 – 3 s.

∴ Impulse during 0 to 3 s = 500 × 3 = 1500 Ns

And, Impulse lost due to friction during 0 to 3 s = 300 × 3 = 900 Ns

∴ Net Impulse during 0 to 3 s = 1500 – 900 = 600 Ns

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From the impulse-momentum equation, we know,

Impulse = Change in linear momentum

1500
⇒ 600 = (𝑉 − 0) ⇒ 𝑽𝟑 = 𝟑. 𝟗𝟐𝟒 𝒎⁄𝒔
9.81 3

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(b) Velocity at the end of 6 seconds:

From the given F-t graph, impulse is the area under the rectangle from 3 s – 6 s.

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∴ Impulse during 3 s to 6 s = ½ × 3 × 500 = 750 Ns

And, Impulse lost due to friction during 3 s to 6 s = 300 × 3 = 900 Ns

∴ Net Impulse during 3 s to 6 s = 750 – 900 = –150 Ns

From the impulse-momentum equation, we know,

Impulse = Change in linear momentum

1500 −150 × 9.81 981

⇒ −150 = (𝑉6 − 𝑉3 ) ⇒ 𝑉6 − 3.924 = =−
9.81 1500 1000

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981
⇒ 𝑉6 = 3.924 − ⇒ 𝑽𝟔 = 𝟐. 𝟗𝟒𝟑 𝒎⁄𝒔
1000

Problem 7.9:
A bullet of mass 0.1 kg and travelling at a speed of 180 m/s penetrates 10 cm when fired into a
wooden log. Determine the velocity with which this bullet would emerge when fired with the
same velocity into a smaller 5 cm thick wooden plank. Also determine the force of resistance
assuming it to be uniform.

Solution: Given data, m = 0.1 kg u1 = 180 m/s s1 = 10 cm = 0.1 m

u2 = 180 m/s s2 = 5 cm = 0.05 m

Clearly, when the bullet is fired with initial velocity 180 m/s on the wooden log (thickness
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unknown), it penetrates through a distance of 10 cm thick into the wooden log, and as such the
bullet does not emerge out and stops within the log. Therefore, final velocity of the bullet, v1 = 0

But, when the bullet is fired with the same initial velocity of 180 m/s on a 5 cm thick (< 10 cm)
log of same wood, the bullet emerges out with some velocity and let it be v2.

We have the relation: v2 – u2 = 2as

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∴ When the bullet is fired on the 10 cm thick wooden log:

02 – 1802 = 2.a × 0.1 => a = –162000 m/s2

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The –ve sign indicates retardation.

And, when the bullet is fired on the 5 cm thick wooden log:

v22 – 1802 = 2 × (–162000) × 0.05 => v22 = 127.28 m/s

Therefore, the force of resistance: F = ma = 0.1 × 162000 => F = 16200 N

Problem 7.10:

A shell of mass 60 kg is fired horizontally with a velocity of 250 m/s by a gun of 3000 kg mass
fitted on a trolley. Make calculations for:

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(a) The velocity with which the gun recoils,
(b) The uniform force required to stop the gun in 0.5 m distance, and
(c) The time required to stop the gun.

It may be presumed that momentum of the system comprising the gun and the shell is conserved.

Solution: Let the suffixes s and g refer to the shell and the gun respectively. Therefore,

Given data, ms = 60 kg us = 0 vs = 250 m/s

mg = 3000 kg ug = 0 vg = ?

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(a) Recoil velocity of the Gun:

If we resemble the incident firing the shell with that of collision of two bodies, it can be said that,

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here firing is taking place instead of collision. Therefore, according to the conservation of
momentum principle,

Total momentum before firing = Total momentum after firing

Since, both the shell and the gun were initially at rest before firing, therefore, total momentum
before firing is zero. Hence,

Total momentum after firing = 0

=> msvs + mgvg = 0 => msvs = –mgvg => 60 × 250 = –3000 × vg => vg = –5 m/s

The –ve sign indicates that the direction of motion of the gun is opposite to that of the bullet; i.e.

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vg = –5 m/s is Recoil velocity of the gun after firing the shell.

(b) Uniform force required to stop the gun in 0.5 m distance:

We have the relation: v2 – u2 = 2as

=> 02 – 52 = 2.a × 0.5 => a = –25 m/s2

The –ve sign indicates retardation.

∴ Force required to stop the gun is: F = ma = 3000 × 25 => F = 75000 N = 75 kN

(c) Time required to stop the gun:

We have the relation, v = u + at => 0 = u + at => t = –u/a = –(–5)/25 => t = 0.25 s Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

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Problem 7.11:
A body of weight 100 N falls from a height of 12 m on a sand bed. It is estimated that the body

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penetrates 1.2 m into the sand before coming to rest. Make calculations for the average thrust
exerted by the sand on the body.

Solution: Given data, W = 100 N => m = 100/9.81 kg h = 12 m s = 1.2 m

Velocity at which the body strikes the sand bed after falling through a distance of 12 m is:

𝑣 2 = 𝑢2 + 2𝑔ℎ = 0 + 2𝑔ℎ ⇒ 𝑣 = √2𝑔ℎ = √2 × 9.81 × 12 ⇒

𝒗 = 𝟏𝟓. 𝟑𝟒 𝒎 𝒎⁄𝒔

Since the velocity after penetration of 0.12 m into the sand bed is zero, therefore,

v2 – u2 = 2as => 0 – 15.342 = 2.a × 0.12 => a = –98.05 m/s2

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The –ve sign indicates retardation.

Let, F be the thrust exerted by the sand on the body in upward direction.

Since, the weight of the body (W) is acting in downward direction, therefore, the
net thrust acting in upward direction is:

100
𝐹 − 100 = × 98.05 ⇒ 𝑭 = 𝟏𝟎𝟗𝟗. 𝟒𝟗 𝐍
9.81

References:

• Dr. D. S. Kumar (4th revised edition 2013), Engineering Mechanics (Statics and Prepared by Ranbir Kalita
Dynamics), S. K. Kataria & Sons, pp. 644-704, ISBN-13 : 978-93-5014-292-9, ISBN-10
: 81-88548-16-3-3.
• R. K. Rajput (3rd edition 2011), A Text Book of Applied Mechanics, Laxmi Publications
(P) Ltd., pp. 247-268.

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Motion of a Lift

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Apparent weight of a person standing inside a lift:

As shown in Fig. 7.2, the rectangular block represents a person standing on the floor of a lift.

When the lift is stationary,

N = W = mg

This means, the normal reaction force (N) offered by the floor
of the lift gives the value of weight of the person standing on it. This
is also valid if the lift is moving upward or downward with uniform
velocity, i.e. acceleration is zero.

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But, in situations, when the lift is moving upward or downward
with some acceleration, may be uniform, some additional force may
be exerted either by the floor of the lift on the person or by the
person on the lift floor, depending upon the direction of motion of
the lift, and as such the apparent weight of the person may increase or decrease.

(a) Apparent weight of the person standing inside the lift

when the lift moves upward with uniform acceleration ‘a’:

As shown in Fig. 7.3, when the lift moves upward with

uniform acceleration ‘a’, the net force acting in upward
direction is (N – mg), N being > mg because the net force
should be in upward direction as the motion is in upward
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direction. Therefore, according to Newton’s second law of
motion:
N – mg = ma
=> N = mg + ma => N = m (g + a)

Therefore, the apparent weight of the person will increase by

an amount equal to ma.

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(b) Apparent weight of the person standing inside the lift

when the lift moves downward with uniform acceleration ‘a’:

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As shown in Fig. 7.4, when the lift moves downward with
uniform acceleration ‘a’, the net force acting in downward
direction is (mg – N), mg being > N because the net force should
be in downward direction as the motion is in downward
direction. Therefore, according to Newton’s second law of
motion:
mg – N = ma

=> N = mg – ma => N = m (g – a)

Therefore, the apparent weight of the person will decrease by an amount equal to ma.

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Now, it is obvious that the Tension in the Cable (T) supporting the load is equal to the Normal
Reaction N in both the cases stated above. That is,

T = mg + ma when the lift moves upward with uniform acceleration ‘a’.

T = mg – ma when the lift moves downward with uniform acceleration ‘a’.

It is to be noted that, the weight of the lift is not considered while finding the Cable Tension, and
only the weight of the person is considered. If the weight of the lift is required to be considered,
then in that case, the weight of the person and the lift can together be considered as the total load
supported by the Cable.

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Problem 7.12:
A lift carrying a load of 1000 N is moving with uniform acceleration of 2.5 m/s2. Calculate the

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tension in the cable supporting the load when:

(a) The lift is moving upward, and

(b) The lift is moving downward.

Solution: Let, T be the tension in the cable supporting the load.

We know, the relation for tension in the cable when the lift moves upward with uniform
acceleration ‘a’ is:

T = m (g + a) = (1000/9.81) × (9.81 + 2.5) => T = 1254.84 N #(a)

And, tension in the cable when the lift moves downward with uniform acceleration ‘a’ is:

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T = m (g – a) = (1000/9.81) × (9.81 – 2.5) => T = 745.16 N #(b)

Problem 7.13:
An elevator of mass 600 kg is ascending with an acceleration of 2.5 m/s2. During this ascent, its
operator who weighs 700 N is standing on a weight scale placed on the floor of the elevator.
Calculate the scale reading and total tension in the cable of the elevator during this motion.

Solution: Given data,

Mass of the elevator (M) = 600 kg
∴ Weight of the elevator (W) = 600 × 9.81 = 5886 N
Weight of the operator (w) = 700 N
∴ Mass of the operator (m) = 700/9.81 kg Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Ascending acceleration (a) = 2.5 m/s2

So, during the ascent, we need to find the following:

(a) Apparent weight of the operator indicated by the weight scale, and
(b) Tension in the cable holding the elevator and the operator.

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(a) Apparent weight of the operator indicated by the weight scale:

We have the relation for apparent weight of a person standing inside an elevator when the

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elevator moves upward with uniform acceleration ‘a’, which is:

N = m (g + a) = (700/9.81) × (9.81 + 2.5) => N = 878.39 N

Therefore, the apparent weight of the operator indicated by the weight scale is 878.39 N.

(b) Tension in the cable holding the elevator and the operator:

We have the relation,

T = m (g + a) = [600 + (700/9.81)] × (9.81 + 2.5) => T = 8264.39 N

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Problem 7.14:
An elevator of weight 25 kN is moving vertically downward with a constant acceleration.
Determine the limits of cable tension.

Starting from rest, the elevator is stated to travel a distance of 25 m during an interval of
8 seconds. What will be the cable tension during this time?

Solution: (a) Limits of Cable Tension:

We know the relation for tension in the Cable of an elevator when it descends with uniform
acceleration ‘a’ is:
T = m (g – a)

Now, the limits of this tension (T) will vary from a maximum value when the elevator moves
with uniform velocity (i.e. a = 0) to a minimum value when a = g = 9.81 m/s2 (free fall), Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Therefore,
Tmax = (25000/9.81) × (9.81 – 0) => Tmax = 25000 N = 25 kN
And,
Tmax = (25000/9.81) × (9.81 – 9.81) => Tmin = 0

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(b) Cable tension after travelling a distance of 25 m in 8 seconds:

We have the relation: S = ut + ½ at2

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=> 25 = (0 × 8) + (½ × a × 82) => a = 25/32 = 0.781 m/s2

Therefore, the required tension in the cable is,

T = m (g – a) = (25000/9.81) × (9.81 – 25/32) => T = 23009.05 N = 23 kN

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Motion of Connected Bodies

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Here, the motion of two interconnected bodies by a light inextensible string has been
examined. When one body is subjected to some external force, since they are interconnected,
both would move with the same velocity and acceleration.

We are going to consider four arrangements here. In each arrangement, two masses m1 and
m2 will be connected by a light inextensible string that passes over a smooth frictionless pulley;
and one the placements of the two masses will be different. In all the four arrangements, we need
to find out primarily the following three parameters:

(a) Acceleration of the system / masses (a)

(b) Tension in the string (T), and
(c) Pressure on the Pulley (R).

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

The derivation procedure will also be same for all the four arrangements.

• Draw separate FBDs for each mass, m1 and m2.

• Find out the value of tension (T) from each FBD of m1 and m2 (equation 1 & 2).
• Equate (1) and (2) and find the value of acceleration (a) in terms of mass and weight.
(equation 3 & 4).
• Put the value of a from equation (3) and find out the value for tension (T) in terms of
mass and weight (equation 5 & 6).
• Find out the value Pressure in the pulley (R) by in terms of tension (T) (equation 7).

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

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(a) Motion of two bodies connected by a light inextensible string that passes over a smooth
pulley:

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Problem 7.15:

Two bodies of masses m1 and m2 (m1 > m2) are connected by a light cord that passes over a
smooth frictionless pulley. Determine:

(a) The acceleration with which the weights move,

(b) The tension in the cord, and
(c) The pressure on the pulley

Solution: As shown in Fig. 7.5(a), two masses m1 and m2 are interconnected by a light
inextensible string that is passing over a smooth frictionless pulley. Since m1 > m2 , therefore, m1
will move downward with acceleration a and m2 will move upward with the same acceleration a.

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Also, since the string is light inextensible and the pulley is smooth and frictionless, therefore, the
tension induced in the string will be same throughout its length.

Considering the FBDs of W1 and W2 as shown in Fig. 7.5(b), we have,

m1g – T = m1a => T = m1g – m1a …….. (1)

T – m2g = m2a => T = m2g + m2a ……… (2)

From (1) and (2): m1g – m1a = m2g + m2a

𝒎𝟏 − 𝒎𝟐
⇒ 𝒂= 𝒈 … … … (3)
𝒎𝟏 + 𝒎𝟐

𝑊1 𝑊2 𝑊1 − 𝑊2
− 𝑾𝟏 − 𝑾𝟐
𝑔 𝑔 𝑔 Prepared by Ranbir Kalita
⇒𝑎= 𝑔= 𝑔⇒ 𝒂= 𝒈 … … … (𝟒)
𝑊1 𝑊2 𝑊1 + 𝑊2 𝑾 + 𝑾
+ 𝟏 𝟐
𝑔 𝑔 𝑔

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Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita
Now, we can put the value of a from equation (3) either into equation (1)
or (2) to obtain the value of T.

∴ Putting the value of a from equation (3) into (1), we get,

𝑚1 − 𝑚2 𝑚1 − 𝑚2
𝑇 = 𝑚1 𝑔 − 𝑚1 𝑎 = 𝑚1 𝑔 − 𝑚1 𝑔 = 𝑚1 𝑔 [1 − ]
𝑚1 + 𝑚2 𝑚1 + 𝑚2

𝑚1 + 𝑚2 − 𝑚1 + 𝑚2 𝟐𝒎𝟏 𝒎𝟐
⇒ 𝑇 = 𝑚1 𝑔 [ ]⇒ 𝑻= 𝒈 … … … (5)
𝑚1 + 𝑚2 𝒎𝟏 + 𝒎𝟐

𝑊1 𝑊2
2× × ×𝑔 𝟐𝑾𝟏 𝑾𝟐
𝑔 𝑔
⇒𝑇= ⇒ 𝑻= … … … (6) Prepared by Ranbir Kalita
𝑊1 𝑊2 𝑾𝟏 + 𝑾𝟐
+
𝑔 𝑔

Now, the Pressure on the pulley, which is nothing but the reaction force offered by the pulley, is
the vector sum of the tension forces induced in the string lying on both sides of the pulley.

∴ 𝑅 = √𝑇 2 + 𝑇 2 + 2. 𝑇. 𝑇. cos 0° = √2𝑇 2 + 2𝑇 2 = √4𝑇 2 ⇒ 𝑹 = 𝟐𝑻 … … … (7)

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From equation (6),

𝟒𝑾𝟏 𝑾𝟐
𝑹 = 𝟐𝑻 = … … … (7)

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

𝑾𝟏 + 𝑾𝟐

Problem 7.16:

Two bodies of weight 50 N and 30 N respectively are connected by a light cord passing over a
smooth frictionless pulley. Determine:

(a) The acceleration with which the weights move,

(b) The tension in the cord, and
(c) The pressure on the pulley

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Solution: (a) Acceleration with which the weights move:

We have the relation:

𝑊1 − 𝑊2 50 − 30
𝑎= 𝑔= × 9.81 ⇒ 𝒂 = 𝟐. 𝟒𝟓 𝒎⁄𝒔𝟐
𝑊1 + 𝑊2 50 + 30

(b) Tension in the cord:

2𝑊1 𝑊2 2 × 50 × 30
𝑇= = ⇒ 𝑻 = 𝟑𝟕. 𝟓 𝐍
𝑊1 + 𝑊2 50 + 30

(c) Pressure on the pulley:

𝑅 = 2𝑇 = 2 × 37.5 ⇒ 𝑹 = 𝟕𝟓 𝐍
Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Problem 7.17:

Two blocks A and B of weights 600 N and 400 N respectively are connected to the two ends of
cord which passes over a pulley. Neglecting inertia of the pulley and assuming that the cord is
inextensible, find the acceleration of block A.

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How much weight should be added to or taken away from block A, if the acceleration of the
block is required to be g/3 downwards?

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Solution: (a) Acceleration of Block-A:

We have the relation:

𝑊1 − 𝑊2 600 − 400
𝑎= 𝑔= × 9.81 ⇒ 𝒂 = 𝟏. 𝟗𝟔𝟐 𝒎⁄𝒔𝟐
𝑊1 + 𝑊2 600 + 400

(b) Required weight of Block-A for acceleration to be g/3 downwards:

Let, W be the required weight of Block-A for its downward acceleration to be g/3. Then,

𝑊1 − 𝑊2 𝑔 𝑊 − 400
𝑎= 𝑔⇒ = × 𝑔 ⇒ 3𝑊 − 1200 = 𝑊 + 400
𝑊1 + 𝑊2 3 𝑊 + 400

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

⇒ 3𝑊 − 𝑊 = 400 + 1200 ⇒ 2𝑊 = 1600 ⇒ 𝑾 = 𝟖𝟎𝟎 𝐍

This means, (800 – 600) = 200 N weight is to be added to the Block-A for its downward
acceleration to be g/3.

Problem 7.18:

A system of frictionless pulleys carries two weights hung by inextensible

cords as shown in Fig. 7.6. Make calculation for the tension in the cords and
acceleration of the weights.

Proceed to work out the displacement and velocity of Block-B after 4

seconds from start. Presume that the system is released from rest. Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Solution: Since the pulleys are frictionless; and the cord is continuous and
light inextensible, therefore, the tension induced in the cord will be same
throughout its length.

We know, in such type of pulley arrangement containing one fixed pulley

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and one movable pulley, if the Block-B travels y-unit distance (downward / upward), the
corresponding movement of Block-A would be y/2 units distance (upward / downward).

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita
In the given problem, since W1 > W2 , therefore, Block-A will move downward with acceleration
a/2 and corresponding movement of Block-B would be a in upward direction. Hence, the FBDs
of Blocks-A & B can now be constructed as shown in Fig. 7.7.

From the FBD of Block-A:

200 𝑎 𝟓𝟎
𝑊1 − 2𝑇 = 𝑚1 𝑎 ⇒ 200 − 2𝑇 = × ⇒ 𝑻 = 𝟏𝟎𝟎 − . 𝒂 … … … (1)
9.81 2 𝟗. 𝟖𝟏

From the FBD of Block-B:

50 𝟓𝟎
𝑇 − 𝑊2 = 𝑚2 𝑎 ⇒ 𝑇 − 50 = . 𝑎 ⇒ 𝑻 = 𝟓𝟎 + . 𝒂 … … … (2)
9.81 𝟗. 𝟖𝟏 Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

From (1) and (2):

50 50 50 50 100
100 − . 𝑎 = 50 + .𝑎 ⇒ .𝑎 + . 𝑎 = 100 − 50 ⇒ . 𝑎 = 50
9.81 9.81 9.81 9.81 9.81

50 × 9.81
⇒𝑎= ⇒ 𝒂 = 𝟒. 𝟗𝟎𝟓 𝒎⁄𝒔𝟐
100

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Therefore, acceleration of Block-A is (4.905/2) = 2.453 m/s2 in downward direction and that of
Block-B is 4.905 m/s2 in upward direction.

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

From (1):
50 50
𝑇 = 100 − . 𝑎 = 100 − × 4.905 ⇒ 𝑻 = 𝟕𝟓 𝐍
9.81 9.81

To find out the velocity and displacement of Block-B after 4 seconds, we can use the following
relations:
𝑣 = 𝑢 + 𝑎𝑡 = 0 + (4.905 × 4) ⇒ 𝒗 = 𝟏𝟗. 𝟔𝟐 𝒎⁄𝒔

And,
1 1
𝑠 = 𝑢𝑡 + 𝑎𝑡 2 = (0 × 4) + ( × 4.905 × 42 ) ⇒ 𝒔 = 𝟑𝟗. 𝟐𝟒 𝒎
2 2

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

(b) Motion of Connected Bodies: one hangs freely and the other on a rough horizontal
plane:

Problem 7.19:

A block of mass m2 is resting on a rough horizontal plane. The block is attached to a light
inextensible string that passes over a smooth frictionless pulley. The portion of the string beyond
the pulley is attached to another block of mass m1 that hangs freely as shown in Fig. 7.8.

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Fig. 7.8

If μ is the coefficient of friction between the horizontal plane and the block resting on it, find:

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(a) The acceleration of the system,

(b) Tension induced in the string, and

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

(c) Pressure on the pulley.

Solution: As shown in Fig. 7.9(a), when the mass m1 moves downward with acceleration a,
the mass m2 also moves with the same acceleration a along the horizontal surface. It is to be
noted that:

• The acceleration of m1 and m2 should be the same; otherwise the string may break of
become loose.
• Since the pulley is smooth frictionless and the string is light inextensible, therefore,
the tension induced in the string will be same throughout its length.

From the FBDs of the two blocks shown in Fig. 7.9(b) & (c), we get,

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

For downward motion of m1 : m1g – T = m1a
=> T = m1g – m1a ……… (1)

For horizontal motion of m2 : T – μ.N2 = m2a

=> T – μ.m2g = m2a
=> T = μ.m2g + m2a ……… (2)

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

From (1) and (2): m1g – m1a = μ.m2g + m2a

=> m1g – μ.m2g = m1a + m2a => g(m1 – μm2) = a(m1 + m2)

𝒎𝟏 − 𝝁𝒎𝟐
⇒ 𝒂= . 𝒈 … … … (3)
𝒎𝟏 + 𝒎𝟐

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𝑊1 𝑊 𝑊1 − 𝑊2
−𝜇 2 𝑾𝟏 − 𝝁𝑾𝟐
𝑔 𝑔 𝑔
⇒𝑎= .𝑔 = .𝑔 ⇒ 𝒂 = . 𝒈 … … … (4)
𝑊1 𝑊2 𝑊1 + 𝑊2 𝑾 + 𝑾
+ 𝟏 𝟐
𝑔 𝑔 𝑔

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Now, putting the value of a from equation (3) in (1), we get,

𝑚1 − 𝜇𝑚2 𝑚1 − 𝜇𝑚2
𝑇 = 𝑚1 𝑔 − 𝑚1 𝑎 = 𝑚1 𝑔 − 𝑚1 . 𝑔 = 𝑚1 𝑔 [1 − ]
𝑚1 + 𝑚2 𝑚1 + 𝑚2

𝑚1 + 𝑚2 − 𝑚1 + 𝜇𝑚2 𝒎𝟐 (𝟏 + 𝝁)
⇒ 𝑇 = 𝑚1 𝑔 [ ] ⇒ 𝑻 = 𝒎𝟏 𝒈 [ ] … … … (5)
𝑚1 + 𝑚2 𝒎𝟏 + 𝒎𝟐

𝑊2 𝑊2
𝑊1 (1 + 𝜇) (1 + 𝜇) 𝑾𝟐 (𝟏 + 𝝁)
𝑔 𝑔
⇒𝑇= .𝑔[ ] = 𝑊1 [ ] ⇒ 𝑻 = 𝑾𝟏 [ ] … … … (6)
𝑔 𝑊1 𝑊2 𝑊1 + 𝑊2 𝑾 + 𝑾
𝑔 + 𝑔
𝟏 𝟐
𝑔

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

For a smooth horizontal plane, μ = 0. Therefore, the modified forms of equations (3) to (6) are:

𝒎𝟏 𝑾𝟏 𝒎𝟐 𝑾𝟐
𝒂= 𝒈= 𝒈 and 𝑻 = 𝒎𝟏 𝒈 [ ] = 𝑾𝟏 [ ]
𝒎𝟏 + 𝒎𝟐 𝑾𝟏 + 𝑾𝟐 𝒎𝟏 + 𝒎𝟐 𝑾𝟏 + 𝑾𝟐

Now, the Pressure on the pulley, i.e. the reaction force offered by the pulley is:

𝑅 = √𝑇 2 + 𝑇 2 + 2. 𝑇. 𝑇. cos 90° = √2𝑇 2 ⇒ 𝑹 = √𝟐. 𝑻 … … … (7)

Problem 7.20:

A block of weight 10 N is resting on a rough horizontal table 1.5 m from its edge. This Block-A
is attached to a string which passes over a pulley at the end of the table. The portion of the string Prepared by Ranbir Kalita
beyond the pulley hangs vertically down and carries Block-B of weight 8 N at the end. If the
coefficient of friction between the Block-A and the table is 0.2, make calculations for:

(a) The acceleration of the system,

(b) Tension induced in the string, and
(c) Pressure on the pulley.

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If the system is released from rest, how much time the Block-A will take to fall over the edge?

Solution: The system described in the question is shown below.

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita
We have the relations for:

Acceleration of the system:

𝑊1 − 𝜇𝑊2 8 − (0.2 × 10)

𝑎= .𝑔 = × 9.81 ⇒ 𝒂 = 𝟑. 𝟐𝟕 𝒎⁄𝒔𝟐 #(𝒂)
𝑊1 + 𝑊2 8 + 10

Tension induced in the string:

𝑊2 (1 + 𝜇) 10 × (1 + 0.2) 𝟏𝟔
𝑇 = 𝑊1 [ ]=8×[ ]⇒ 𝑻= = 𝟓. 𝟑𝟑 𝐍 #(𝑏)
𝑊1 + 𝑊2 8 + 10 𝟑

Pressure on the pulley:

16
𝑅 = √2. 𝑇 = √2 × ⇒ 𝑹 = 𝟕. 𝟓𝟒 𝐍 #(𝑐)
3
Prepared by Ranbir Kalita
Now, to find out the time required for the Block-A to fall over the edge of the table, we can make
the following calculations:

𝑣 2 − 𝑢2 = 2𝑎𝑠 ⇒ 𝑣 2 − 0 = 2𝑎𝑠 ⇒ 𝑣 = √2𝑎𝑠 = √2 × 3.27 × 1.5 ⇒ 𝒗 = 𝟑. 𝟏𝟑 𝒎⁄𝒔

And,
𝑣 3.13
𝑣 = 𝑢 + 𝑎𝑡 = 0 + 𝑎𝑡 ⇒ 𝑡 = = ⇒ 𝒕 = 𝟎. 𝟗𝟓𝟕 𝐬
𝑎 3.27
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(c) Motion of Connected Bodies: one hangs freely and the other on a rough inclined plane:

Problem 7.21:

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Two bodies of masses m1 and m2 are connected at the ends of a light inextensible string that
passes over a smooth frictionless pulley. As shown in Fig. 7.10, the mass m1 hangs freely and
mass m2 rests on a rough inclined plane having inclination α with the horizontal.

Fig. 7.10

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

If μ is the coefficient of friction between the inclined plane and the block resting on it, find:

(a) The acceleration of the system,

(b) Tension induced in the string, and
(c) Pressure on the pulley.

Solution: As shown in Fig. 7.11(a), when the mass m1 moves downward with acceleration a,
the mass m2 also moves with the same acceleration a along the inclined surface in upward
direction. It is to be noted that:

• The acceleration of m1 and m2 should be the same; otherwise the string may break of
become loose.
• Since the pulley is smooth frictionless and the string is light inextensible, therefore,
the tension induced in the string will be same throughout its length. Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

From the FBDs of the two blocks shown in Fig. 7.11(b) & (c), we get,

For downward motion of m1 : m1g – T = m1a

=> T = m1g – m1a ……… (1)

For upward motion of m2 along the inclined plane:

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T – m2g sin α – μN2 = m2a

=> T – m2g sin α – μ.m2g cos α = m2a
=> T = m2g sin α + μ.m2g cos α + m2a ……… (2)

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

From (1) and (2):
m1g – m1a = m2g sin α + μ.m2g cos α + m2a

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

=> m1g – m2g sin α – μ.m2g cos α = m1a + m2a

=> g (m1 – m2 sin α – μ.m2 cos α) = a (m1 + m2)

𝒎𝟏 − 𝒎𝟐 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝜶 − 𝝁𝒎𝟐 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝜶

⇒ 𝒂= . 𝒈 … … … (3)
𝒎𝟏 + 𝒎𝟐

𝑊1 𝑊2 𝑊 1
− sin 𝛼 − 𝜇 2 cos 𝛼 (𝑊 − 𝑊2 sin 𝛼 − 𝜇𝑊2 cos 𝛼)
𝑔 𝑔 𝑔 𝑔 1
⇒𝑎= .𝑔 = .𝑔
𝑊1 𝑊2 1
+ (𝑊1 + 𝑊2 )
𝑔 𝑔 𝑔

𝑾𝟏 − 𝑾𝟐 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝜶 − 𝝁𝑾𝟐 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝜶

⇒ 𝒂= . 𝒈 … … … (4)
𝑾𝟏 + 𝑾𝟐

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Now, putting the value of a from equation (3) into (1), we get,

𝑚1 − 𝑚2 sin 𝛼 − 𝜇𝑚2 cos 𝛼

𝑇 = 𝑚1 𝑔 − 𝑚1 𝑎 = 𝑚1 𝑔 − 𝑚1 .𝑔
𝑚1 + 𝑚2

𝑚1 − 𝑚2 sin 𝛼 − 𝜇𝑚2 cos 𝛼 𝑚1 + 𝑚2 − 𝑚1 + 𝑚2 sin 𝛼 + 𝜇𝑚2 cos 𝛼

= 𝑚1 𝑔 [1 − ] = 𝑚1 𝑔 [ ]
𝑚1 + 𝑚2 𝑚1 + 𝑚2

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𝑚2 + 𝑚2 sin 𝛼 + 𝜇𝑚2 cos 𝛼 𝒎𝟐 (𝟏 + 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝜶 + 𝝁 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝜶)

= 𝑚1 𝑔 [ ] ⇒ 𝑻 = 𝒎𝟏 𝒈 [ ] … … … (5)
𝑚1 + 𝑚2 𝒎𝟏 + 𝒎𝟐

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

𝑊2 1
(1 + sin 𝛼 + 𝜇 cos 𝛼) (1
𝑊1 𝑔 𝑔 . 𝑊2 + sin 𝛼 + 𝜇 cos 𝛼)
⇒𝑇= .𝑔[ ] = 𝑊1 [ ]
𝑔 𝑊1 𝑊2 1
+ (𝑊1 + 𝑊2 )
𝑔 𝑔 𝑔

𝑾𝟐 (𝟏 + 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝜶 + 𝝁 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝜶)
⇒ 𝑻 = 𝑾𝟏 [ ] … … … (6)
𝑾𝟏 + 𝑾𝟐

Therefore, Pressure on the pulley / the reaction force offered by the pulley is:

𝑅 = √𝑇 2 + 𝑇 2 + 2. 𝑇. 𝑇. cos(90° − 𝛼) = √2𝑇 2 + 2𝑇 2 . sin 𝛼 = √2𝑇 2 (1 + sin 𝛼)

⇒ 𝑹 = 𝑻√𝟐(𝟏 + 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝜶) … … … (7)

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Problem 7.22:

For the pulley-mass system depicted in Fig. 7.12, the mass m2 = 5 kg is placed on a smooth
inclined plane of inclination α where as the mass m1 = 5 kg is hanging free.

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

If the acceleration of the system is 1.5 m/s2, determine:

(a) The inclination of the plane,

(b) Tension induced in the string, and
(c) Pressure on the pulley.

How the acceleration of the system would be affected if each mass is doubled?

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Solution: Given data,

m1 = 5 kg (hanging freely)

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

m2 = 5 kg (placed on a smooth inclined plane, ∴ μ = 0)
a = 1.5 m/s2

We know,
𝑚1 − 𝑚2 sin 𝛼 − 𝜇𝑚2 cos 𝛼 𝑚1 − 𝑚2 sin 𝛼 − 0. 𝑚2 cos 𝛼 𝑚1 − 𝑚2 sin 𝛼
𝑎= .𝑔 = =
𝑚1 + 𝑚2 𝑚1 + 𝑚2 𝑚1 + 𝑚2

5 − 5 sin 𝛼 1.5 × 10 1135 1135 227

⇒ 1.5 = × 9.81 ⇒ 5 sin 𝛼 = 5 − = ⇒ sin 𝛼 = =
5+5 9.81 327 5 × 327 327

227
⇒ 𝛼 = sin−1 ( ) ⇒ 𝜶 = 𝟒𝟑. 𝟗𝟔° #(𝒂)
327

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

And,
𝑚2 (1 + sin 𝛼 + 𝜇 cos 𝛼) 𝑚2 (1 + sin 𝛼 + 0. cos 𝛼)
𝑇 = 𝑚1 𝑔 [ ] = 𝑚1 𝑔 [ ]
𝑚1 + 𝑚2 𝑚1 + 𝑚2

𝑚2 (1 + sin 𝛼) 5 × (1 + sin 43.96°)

= 𝑚1 𝑔 [ ] = 5 × 9.81 × [ ] ⇒ 𝑻 = 𝟒𝟏. 𝟓𝟓 𝐍 #(𝒃)
𝑚1 + 𝑚2 5+5

Again,
𝑅 = 𝑇√2(1 + sin 𝛼) = 41.55 × √2 × (1 + sin 43.96°) ⇒ 𝑹 = 𝟕𝟔. 𝟒𝟖 𝐍 #(𝒄)

Now, if the each mass is doubled, then the acceleration of the system would be,

𝑚1 − 𝑚2 sin 𝛼 10 − (10 sin 43.96°)

𝑎= = ⇒ 𝒂 = 𝟏. 𝟓 𝒎⁄𝒔𝟐
𝑚1 + 𝑚2 10 + 10
Prepared by Ranbir Kalita
Hence, the acceleration of the system remains unaffected if each mass is doubled.

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 Engineering Mechanics : Module-7

(d) Motion two bodies connected over inclined planes:

Problem 7.23:

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Two bodies of masses m1 and m2 are connected at the ends of a light inextensible string that
passes over a smooth frictionless pulley and placed on two rough inclined planes as shown in
Fig. 7.10.

Fig. 7.13

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

If μ1 and μ2 are the coefficients of friction between the contact surfaces of masses m1 and m2
respectively with the inclined surfaces upon which they are placed, then find:

(a) The acceleration of the system,

(b) Tension induced in the string, and
(c) Pressure on the pulley.

Solution: As shown in Fig. 7.14(a), when the mass m1 moves down the inclined plane with
acceleration a, the mass m2 also moves with the same acceleration a up the inclined plane in.
It is to be noted that:

• The acceleration of m1 and m2 should be the same; otherwise the string may break of
become loose.
Prepared by Ranbir Kalita
• Since the pulley is smooth frictionless and the string is light inextensible, therefore,
the tension induced in the string will be same throughout its length.

From the FBDs of the two blocks shown in Fig. 7.14(b) & (c), we get,

For downward motion of m1 along the inclined plane:

m1g sin α1 – T – μ1N1 = m1a

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Mechanical Engineering Department Jorhat Engineering College
 Engineering Mechanics : Module-7

=> m1g sin α1 – T – μ1m1g cos α1 = m1a

=> T = m1g sin α1 – μ1m1g cos α1 – m1a ……… (1)

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

For upward motion of m2 along the inclined plane:
T – m2g sin α2 – μ2N2 = m2a
=> T – m2g sin α2 – μ2m2g cos α2 = m2a
=> T = m2g sin α2 + μ2m2g cos α2 + m2a ……… (2)

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Fig. 7.14 (a)

Fig. 7.17 (b) Fig. 7.14(c)

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita
From (1) and (2):
m1g sin α1 – μ1m1g cos α1 – m1a = m2g sin α2 + μ2m2g cos α2 + m2a

=> m1g sin α1 – m2g sin α2 – μ1m1g cos α1 – + μ2m2g cos α2 = m1a + m2a

=> g (m1 sin α1 – m2 sin α2 – μ1m1 cos α1 – + μ2m2 cos α2) = a (m1 + m2)

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Mechanical Engineering Department Jorhat Engineering College
 Engineering Mechanics : Module-7

𝒎𝟏 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝜶𝟏 − 𝒎𝟐 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝜶𝟐 − 𝝁𝟏 𝒎𝟏 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝜶𝟏 − 𝝁𝟐 𝒎𝟐 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝜶𝟐

⇒ 𝒂= . 𝒈 … … … (3)
𝒎𝟏 + 𝒎𝟐

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

𝑾𝟏 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝜶𝟏 − 𝑾𝟐 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝜶𝟐 − 𝝁𝟏 𝑾𝟏 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝜶𝟏 − 𝝁𝟐 𝑾𝟐 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝜶𝟐
⇒ 𝒂= . 𝒈 … … … (4)
𝑾𝟏 + 𝑾𝟐

Now, putting the value of a from equation (3) in (1), we get,

𝑇 = 𝑚1 𝑔 sin 𝛼1 − 𝜇1 𝑚1 𝑔 cos 𝛼1 − 𝑚1 𝑎

𝑚1 sin 𝛼1 − 𝑚2 sin 𝛼2 − 𝜇1 𝑚1 cos 𝛼1 − 𝜇2 𝑚2 cos 𝛼2

= 𝑚1 𝑔 sin 𝛼1 − 𝜇1 𝑚1 𝑔 cos 𝛼1 − 𝑚1 .𝑔
𝑚1 + 𝑚2

1
= [𝑚 2 𝑔 sin 𝛼1 + 𝑚1 𝑚2 𝑔 sin 𝛼1 − 𝜇1 𝑚1 2 𝑔 cos 𝛼1 − 𝜇1 𝑚1 𝑚2 𝑔 cos 𝛼1 − 𝑚1 2 𝑔 sin 𝛼1
𝑚1 + 𝑚2 1
+ 𝑚1 𝑚2 𝑔 sin 𝛼2 + 𝜇1 𝑚1 2 𝑔 cos 𝛼1 + 𝜇2 𝑚1 𝑚2 𝑔 cos 𝛼2 ]

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

1
= [𝑚 𝑚 𝑔 sin 𝛼1 − 𝜇1 𝑚1 𝑚2 𝑔 cos 𝛼1 + 𝑚1 𝑚2 𝑔 sin 𝛼2 + 𝜇2 𝑚1 𝑚2 𝑔 cos 𝛼2 ]
𝑚1 + 𝑚2 1 2

𝒎𝟏 𝒎𝟐 𝒈
⇒ 𝑻= [(𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝜶𝟏 + 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝜶𝟐 ) − (𝝁𝟏 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝜶𝟏 − 𝝁𝟐 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝜶𝟐 )] … … … (5)
𝒎𝟏 + 𝒎 𝟐

𝑊1 𝑊2
𝑔 . 𝑔 𝑔
⇒𝑇= [(sin 𝛼1 + sin 𝛼2 ) − (𝜇1 cos 𝛼1 − 𝜇2 cos 𝛼2 )]
𝑊1 𝑊2
+
𝑔 𝑔

𝑾𝟏 𝑾𝟐
⇒ 𝑻= [(𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝜶𝟏 + 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝜶𝟐 ) − (𝝁𝟏 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝜶𝟏 − 𝝁𝟐 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝜶𝟐 )] … … … (6)
𝑾𝟏 + 𝑾𝟐

Therefore, Pressure on the pulley / the reaction force offered by the pulley is: Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

𝑅 = √𝑇 2 + 𝑇 2 + 2. 𝑇. 𝑇. cos[180° − (𝛼1 + 𝛼2 )] = √2𝑇 2 − 2𝑇 2 . cos(𝛼1 + 𝛼2 )

= √2𝑇 2 [1 − cos(𝛼1 + 𝛼2 )] ⇒ 𝑹 = 𝑻√𝟐[𝟏 − 𝐜𝐨𝐬(𝜶𝟏 + 𝜶𝟐 )] … … … (7)

We know,
cos 2𝛼 = 1 − 2 sin2 𝛼 ⇒ 2 sin2 𝛼 = 1 − cos 2𝛼

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Therefore,
𝛼 𝜶𝟏 + 𝜶𝟐 𝜶𝟏 + 𝜶𝟐
2 sin2 = 1 − cos 𝛼 OR 𝟐 𝐬𝐢𝐧𝟐 = 𝟏 − 𝐜𝐨𝐬
2 𝟐 𝟐

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Hence, from equation (7):

𝛼1 + 𝛼2 𝛼1 + 𝛼2 𝜶𝟏 + 𝜶𝟐
𝑅 = 𝑇√2 × 2 sin2 = 𝑇√4 sin2 ⇒ 𝑹 = 𝟐𝑻 𝐬𝐢𝐧 … … … (8)
2 2 𝟐

Problem 7.24:

Two smooth inclined planes whose inclinations with the horizontal are 30° and 20°, and are
placed back to back. Two bodies of weight 100 N and 60 N are placed on them and are

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

connected by a light inextensible string that passes over a smooth pulley as shown in Fig. 7.15.
Calculate

(a) The common acceleration of the system,

(b) Tension induced in the string, and
(c) Pressure on the pulley.

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Fig. 7.15

Solution: Given data, α1 = 30° α2 = 20° μ1 = μ2 = 0

W1 = 100 N W2 = 60 N

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Mechanical Engineering Department Jorhat Engineering College
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We have the following relations:

For common acceleration of the system:

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

𝑊1 sin 𝛼1 − 𝑊2 sin 𝛼2 − 𝜇1 𝑊1 cos 𝛼1 − 𝜇2 𝑊2 cos 𝛼2
𝑎= .𝑔
𝑊1 + 𝑊2

𝑊1 sin 𝛼1 − 𝑊2 sin 𝛼2 − 0. 𝑊1 cos 𝛼1 − 0. 𝑊2 cos 𝛼2 𝑊1 sin 𝛼1 − 𝑊2 sin 𝛼2

= .𝑔 = .𝑔
𝑊1 + 𝑊2 𝑊1 + 𝑊2

100 sin 30° − 60 sin 20°

= × 9.81 ⇒ 𝒂 = 𝟏. 𝟖𝟎 𝒎⁄𝒔
100 + 60

Tension induced in the string:

𝑊1 𝑊2
𝑇= [(sin 𝛼1 + sin 𝛼2 ) − (𝜇1 cos 𝛼1 − 𝜇2 cos 𝛼2 )]
𝑊1 + 𝑊2

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

𝑊1 𝑊2 𝑊1 𝑊2
[(sin 𝛼1 + sin 𝛼2 ) − (0. cos 𝛼1 − 0. cos 𝛼2 )] = [(sin 𝛼1 + sin 𝛼2 )]
𝑊1 + 𝑊2 𝑊1 + 𝑊2

100 × 60
= [sin 30° + sin 20°] ⇒ 𝑻 = 𝟑𝟏. 𝟓𝟖 𝐍
100 + 60

Pressure on the pulley:

𝛼1 + 𝛼2 30° + 20°
𝑅 = 2𝑇 sin = 2 × 31.58 sin = 2 × 31.58 sin 25° ⇒ 𝑹 = 𝟐𝟔. 𝟔𝟗 𝐍
2 2

References:

• Dr. D. S. Kumar (4th revised edition 2013), Engineering Mechanics (Statics and Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Dynamics), S. K. Kataria & Sons, pp. 644-704, ISBN-13 : 978-93-5014-292-9, ISBN-10

: 81-88548-16-3-3.
• R. K. Rajput (3rd edition 2011), A Text Book of Applied Mechanics, Laxmi Publications
(P) Ltd., pp. 247-268.

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Mechanical Engineering Department Jorhat Engineering College
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D’Alembert’s Principle

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

D’Alembert’s Principle

When a body is connected to another body by a string which is subjected to some external force,
then the solution to such a system can be worked out by applying the D’Alembert’s Principle.
The statement of the principle is:

“The system of forces acting on a body in motion is in dynamic equilibrium with the inertia force
of the body.”

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Fig. 7.16

As shown in Fig. 7.16, a body of mass m is subjected to forces F1 , F2 and F3 . Obviously, the
Resultant Force (R) will cause to body to move along its direction with acceleration a (say).

Now, the body can be made to remain static is a force equal to ma is made to act in the reverse
direction of R. Then, for the Dynamic Equilibrium of the body,

Resultant Force (R) = Reverse Force (ma)

=> R = ma or R – ma = 0 Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

The force (–ma) is called the Inertia Force (Fi ) or the Reverse Effective Force.

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Problem 7.25:

Determine the acceleration produced in a body of 50 kg mass when it is acted upon by a force of

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

125 N. Use D’Alembert’s principle.

Solution: Given data, m = 50 kg F = 125 N

According to D’Alembert’s principle, we need to apply the inertia force Fi = ma in the opposite
direction of motion as shown in the figure above.

∴ For the dynamic equilibrium of the body,

ΣFx = 0 [→ +ve]

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

=> 125 – ma = 0 => a = 125/m = 125/50 => a = 2.5 m/s2

Problem 7.26:

A man weighing 750 N stands on the floor of a lift. Determine the pressure exerted on the floor
when:

(a) The lift moves upward with an acceleration of 2.5 m/s2,

(b) The lift moves downward with an acceleration of 2.5 m/s2.

If 900 N pressure is to be exerted on the floor, then with what acceleration the lift should move
upward? Work out your solution by using D’Alembert’s principle.
Prepared by Ranbir Kalita
Solution: Given data, W = 750 N a = 2.5 m/s2

(a) When the lift moves upward:

According to D’Alembert’s principle, for dynamic equilibrium, the

inertia force Fi = ma should be applied in downward direction.

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Mechanical Engineering Department Jorhat Engineering College
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As such, ΣFy = 0 [↑ +ve]

=> T – mg – ma = 0

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

=> T = mg + ma = W/g (g + a) = (750/9.81) × (9.81 + 2.5) => T = 941.13 N

(c) When the lift moves downward:

As shown in the figure here,

ΣFy = 0 [↑ +ve]

=> mg – T – ma = 0

=> T = mg – ma = W/g (g – a) = (750/9.81) × (9.81 – 2.5) => T = 558.87 N

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Required upward acceleration (a) for 900 N pressure to be exerted on the floor of the lift:

For upward movement of the lift with acceleration a, we have the following relation according to
D’Alembert’s principle,

T – mg – ma = 0 => T = mg + ma

𝑊 𝑊 𝑊
⇒𝑇= .𝑔 + .𝑎 = 𝑊 + .𝑎
𝑔 𝑔 𝑔

Since the tension induced in the cable holding the lift is equal to the pressure exerted on the floor
of the lift, therefore,
750
900 = 750 + .𝑎
9.81

9.81 Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

⇒𝑎= × (900 − 750) ⇒ 𝒂 = 𝟏. 𝟗𝟔𝟐 𝒎⁄𝒔𝟐
750

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Mechanical Engineering Department Jorhat Engineering College
 Engineering Mechanics : Module-7

Problem 7.27:

A block of mass 50 kg, resting on a horizontal plane, is required to be given an acceleration of 2

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

m/s2 towards right by applying a push force P at an angle of 45 degrees with the horizontal.
Assuming that coefficient between the block and the plane is 0.4, work out the magnitude of
push P. Obtain your solution by applying D’Alembert’s principle.

Solution: The FBD as per the given problem statement is shown below:

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Given data, m = 50 kg a = 2 m/s2 θ = 45° μ = 0.4

According to D’Alembert’s principle, for dynamic equilibrium,

ΣFx = 0 [→ +ve]
=> P cos θ – μN – ma = 0 => P cos 45° – 0.4N – (50 × 2) = 0
=> P cos 45° – 0.4N – 100 = 0 ……… (1)

ΣFy = 0 [↑ +ve]
=> N – P sin θ – mg = 0 => N = P sin 45° + (50 × 9.81) = 0
=> N = P sin 45° + 490.5 ……… (2) Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Putting the value of N from equation (2) in (1), we get,

P cos 45° – 0.4 (P sin 45° + 490.5) – 100 = 0

=> P cos 45° – 0.4P sin 45° – 196.2 – 100 = 0 => P (cos 45° – 0.4 sin 45°) = 296.2
=> P = 698.15 N

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Mechanical Engineering Department Jorhat Engineering College
 Engineering Mechanics : Module-7

Problem 7.28:

Two blocks of masses 60 kg and 15 kg are connected by a string and move along a rough

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

horizontal surface when a force of 300 N is applied to the block of 60 kg mass as shown in Fig.
7.17. Apply D’Alembert’s principle to determine the acceleration of the blocks and tension in the
string. Presume that coefficient of friction between the sliding surface of the blocks and the plane
is 0.25.

Fig. 7.17

Solution: The FBDs of each of the masses is shown below in Fig. 7.18(a) & (b):

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Fig. 7.18

From the FBD shown in Fig, 7.18(a): ΣFx = 0 [→ +ve]

=> 300 – T – μ.N1 – m1a = 0
=> 300 – T – 0.25N1 – 60a = 0 ……… (1) Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

ΣFy = 0 [↑ +ve]
=> N1 = m1g = 60 × 9.81 => N1 = 588.6 ……… (2)

Putting the value of N1 from (2) in (1), we get,

300 – T – (0.25 × 588.6) – 60a = 0 => 300 – T – 147.15 – 60a = 0

=> 152.85 – T – 60a = 0 ……… (3)

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Mechanical Engineering Department Jorhat Engineering College
 Engineering Mechanics : Module-7

Again, from the FBD shown in Fig. 7.18(b): ΣFx = 0 [→ +ve]

=> T – μ.N2 – m2a = 0

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

=> T – 0.25N2 – 15a = 0 ……… (4)

ΣFy = 0 [↑ +ve]
=> N2 = m2g = 15 × 9.81 => N2 = 147.15 ……… (5)

Putting the value of N2 from equation (5) in (4), we get,

T – (0.25 × 147.15) – 15a = 0

=> T – 36.7875 – 15a = 0 ……… (6)

Now, (3) + (6):

152.85 – T – 60a + T – 36.7875 – 15a = 0

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

=> 116.0625 – 75a = 0 => a = 116.0625/75 => a = 1.548 m/s2 ……… (7)

Therefore, acceleration of the blocks is a = 1.548 m/s2 . #

Putting the value of a from equation (7) in (6), we get,

T – 36.7875 – 15a = 0 => T – 36.7875 – (15 × 1.548) = 0

=> T – 36.7875 – 23.22 => T = 60 N #

Problem 7.29:

A block weighing 40 N is accelerated along the horizontal plane by means of a 20 N weight

attached to it through flexible, inextensible and weightless rope passing over a smooth pulley as
shown in Fig. 7.18. Using D’Alembert’s principle, determine the acceleration of the system and Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

the tension in the rope. Take coefficient of friction between the 40 N weight block and the
horizontal plane as 0.3.

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Mechanical Engineering Department Jorhat Engineering College
 Engineering Mechanics : Module-7

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Fig. 7.18

Solution: The FBDs of the block W1 and W2 are shown in Fig. 7.19(a) and (b) below:

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Fig. 7.19
We need to determine:

(a) Acceleration of the system (a),

(b) Tension in the rope (T)
Prepared by Ranbir Kalita
From the FBD shown in Fig. 7.9(b):

ΣFy = 0 [↑ +ve]
=> T + m2a – m2g = 0
20 𝟐𝟎
⇒𝑇+ . 𝑎 − 20 = 0 ⇒ 𝑻 = 𝟐𝟎 − . 𝒂 … … … (1)
9.81 𝟗. 𝟖𝟏

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Mechanical Engineering Department Jorhat Engineering College
 Engineering Mechanics : Module-7

From the FBD shown in Fig. 7.9(a):

ΣFx = 0 [→ +ve]

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

=> T – m1a – μN1 = 0
40
⇒𝑇− . 𝑎 − 0.3𝑁1 = 0 … … … (2)
9.81

ΣFy = 0 [↑ +ve]
=> N1 = m1g => N1 = 40 N ……… (3)

Putting the value of N1 from equation (3) in (2), we get,

40
𝑇− . 𝑎 − (0.3 × 40) = 0
9.81

40

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

⇒𝑇− . 𝑎 − 12 = 0
9.81

𝟒𝟎
⇒ 𝑻 = 𝟏𝟐 + . 𝒂 = 𝟎 … … … (4)
𝟗. 𝟖𝟏

Now, from equations (1) and (4),

20 40 40 20 𝑎
20 − . 𝑎 = 12 + .𝑎 ⇒ .𝑎 + . 𝑎 = 20 − 12 ⇒ (40 + 20) = 8
9.81 9.81 9.81 9.81 9.81

8 × 9.81
⇒𝑎= ⇒ 𝒂 = 𝟏. 𝟑𝟎𝟖 𝒎⁄𝒔𝟐 #(𝑎) … … … (5)
60

Putting the value of a from equation (5) in (1), we get,

20 20
𝑇 = 20 − . 𝑎 = 20 − × 1.308 ⇒ 𝑻 = 𝟏𝟕. 𝟑𝟑 𝐍 #(𝑏)
9.81 9.81
Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

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Mechanical Engineering Department Jorhat Engineering College
 Engineering Mechanics : Module-7

Work, Power and Energy

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Work: Work is said to be done when the point of application of force moves through a certain
distance in the direction of force. The amount of work done is equal to the product of force and
resulting displacement in the direction of force.

Fig. 7.20

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

As shown in Fig. 7.20(a), a body is displaced through a distance x in the direction of force F
acting on it. As such, work done on the body is:
Work done = Force × displacement
=> W = F . x
In Fig. 7.20(a), the force and displacement are collinear. Opposite to this, in Fig. 7.20(b), the line
of action of force (F) is inclined at an angle of θ with the direction of resulting displacement
(motion). In such a case,

Work done = Component of force in the direction of displacement × Displacement

=> W = F cos θ . x

It is to be noted that, when θ = 90°, W = F cos 90° . x => W = 0. This means, when the force
and displacement are at 90 degrees, the work done will be zero. Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Also, if the magnitude of force changes with displacement, then the value of work done can be
obtained through integration as shown below:

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Mechanical Engineering Department Jorhat Engineering College
 Engineering Mechanics : Module-7

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Fig. 7.21

As shown in Fig. 7.21, the magnitude of force (F) is changing with displacement (x). We can
consider a small elemental area dx under the F vs. x curve. For this dx distance, the magnitude of
force can be assumed to be constant and as such area under the F-x cure for dx width will be the

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

work done by force F corresponding to a displacement dx in the direction of force, and can be
written as,
Wdx = F. dx

Now, the total area under the F-x curve can be considered to be composed of numerous small
elemental areas equal to dx. As such, total work done will be,

𝑾 = ∫ 𝑭. 𝒅𝒙
𝟏

The SI unit of work done is Joule (J) and it is a Scalar Quantity. One Joule is defined as the
work done when a constant force of One Newton acting on a body displaces it through a distance
on One Meter in the direction of force.
Prepared by Ranbir Kalita
1 J = 1 N-m

Regarding the sign convention, work done is taken as positive when the point of application of
force moves in the direction of force; and it is considered negative when the direction of
displacement is opposite to that for force.

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Power: Power is the rate of doing work, or the work done per unit time. That is,

Power = Work done per unit time (Joule/second)

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

P = W/t (Watt)

SI unit of power is Watt. 1 Watt is equivalent to 1 Joule work done per second.

∴ 1 W = 1 J/s = 1 N-m/s

Energy: Energy is the capacity of doing work. That is, capacity to produce a change from
existing conditions or capacity to exert force through a distance to do work. As such, its SI unit
is same as that of work done, i.e. Joule (J).

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Energy could be Potential Energy and Kinetic Energy.

Potential Energy is the energy possessed by a body due to its position at a certain height
above the Earth’s surface. For a body situated at a certain height above the earth’s surface, the
amount of potential energy possessed by the body is equal to the work done against gravity while
lifting the body to that much of height. That is, work done against the force of gravity remains
stored as potential energy of the body.

Therefore, when a body of mass m kg is raised to a height h meters above the earth’s surface,
then,
Weight of the body = mg
Potential energy = work done against gravity = weight × height raised

=> P.E. = mgh Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

As such, P.E. of a body is zero when it rests upon the earth’s surface.

When a body is already situated at a certain height h1 and it is further raised to height h2 , then
the change in P.E. is equal to the work done on the body (or against gravity) in raising it from
lower elevation (h1) to higher elevation (h2) . That is,

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ΔP.E. = mg (h2 – h1)

Also, the work done against the gravitational force is independent of the path followed and

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depends on the initial and final values of the parameter mgh only, i.e. the change in potential
energy (ΔP.E.). This implies that, work done on the body when its position changes from h1 to
h2, as shown in Fig. 7.22, remain the same whether the Path-A or B is followed (independent of
the path followed).

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Fig. 7.22

Conservative Force: If the work done by a force in moving an object between two positions
is independent of the path followed by the object and can be expressed as a change in its
potential energy, then such a force is called a Conservative Force. The notable examples include
gravitational force, elastic force, spring force etc.

Kinetic Energy: Kinetic Energy is the energy possessed by a body by virtue of its motion.

If a body of mass m has been moved through a distance x in the direction of applied force (F),
then,
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Kinetic Energy gained by the body = Total work done = 𝒎 ∫ 𝒗𝒅𝒗

If the body experiences a change in velocity from v1 to v2 , then,

2 𝟏
Change in K.E. (ΔK.E.) = 𝑚 ∫1 𝑣𝑑𝑣 = 𝟐 𝒎(𝒗𝟐 𝟐 − 𝒗𝟏 𝟐 )

𝟏
In general, 𝐊. 𝐄. = 𝒎𝒗𝟐
𝟐

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Problem 7.29:

A box of mass 80 kg is moving at a speed of 10 m/s on a ropeway. If the box is 40 m above the

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ground level, estimate the potential energy and kinetic energy of the box.

Solution: Given data: m = 80 kg v = 10 m/s h = 40 m

Therefore, PE = mgh = 80 × 9.81 × 40 => PE = 31329 N-m (Joule)

And, KE = ½ × m × v2 = ½ × 80 × 102 => KE = 4000 N-m (Joule)

Problem 7.30:

A vehicle accelerates a glider of 125 kg mass from rest to a speed of 50 km/hr. Make

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calculations for the work done on the glider by the vehicle. What change would occur in the
Kinetic Energy of the glider if subsequently its velocity reduces to 20 km/hr on the application of
brakes?

Solution: Given data,

M = 125 kg v1 = 50 km/hr v2 = 20 km/hr

= (50×1000)/3600 = (20×1000)/3600
= 125/9 m/s = 50/9 m/s

The work done on the glider when its velocity changes from u1 = 0 m/s to v1 = 125/9 m/s will be
equal to the change in KE of the glider. That is,

1 2 2
1 2
1 125 2
𝑊 = × 𝑚 × (𝑣1 − 𝑢1 ) = × 𝑚 × 𝑣1 = × 125 × ( )
2 2 2 9 Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

⇒ 𝑾 = 𝟏𝟐𝟎𝟓𝟔. 𝟑𝟑 𝐉𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐞

Again, change in KE of the glider when its velocity reduces from v1 = 125/9 m/s to v2 = 50/9 m/s
is:

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1 2 2
1 50 2 125 2
∆KE = × 𝑚 × (𝑣2 − 𝑣1 ) = × 125 × [( ) − ( ) ] ⇒ ∆𝐊𝐄 = −𝟏𝟎𝟏𝟐𝟕. 𝟑𝟏 𝐉𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐞
2 2 9 9

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

The –ve sign indicates decrease in KE of the glider. Therefore, change in KE of the glider is:

∆𝐊𝐄 = 𝟏𝟎𝟏𝟐𝟕. 𝟑𝟏 𝐉𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐞

Problem 7.31:

A block weighing 400 N is resting on a smooth horizontal surface. What work will be done if the
block is to be moved through 2 m distance by applying:

(a) A horizontal force of 150 N.

(b) A force of 150 N whose line of action makes an angle of 30° with the horizontal.

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Solution: The FBDs for question number (a) and (b) are shown in Fig. 7.23(a) and (b) below.

Fig. 7.23
Prepared by Ranbir Kalita
From the FBD shown in Fig. 7.23(a):

W = F . x = 150 × 2 => W = 300 N-m (Joule)

From the FBD shown in Fig. 7.23(b):

W = F cos 30° . x = 150 cos 30° × 2 => W = 259.81 N-m (Joule)

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Problem 7.32:

A wooden block of 750 N weight is placed on an inclined plane which makes an angle of 30°

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with the horizontal. What work will be done if the block is to be moved upwards the plane for
2.5 m distance and the (a) Plane is smooth, (b) Plane is rough with coefficient of friction 0.2.

Solution: Given data, W = 750 N α = 30° x = 2.5 m

The FBDs for the question (a) and (b) are shown in Fig. 7.24(a) and (b) respectively.

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Fig. 7.24

(a) Work done when the plane is smooth:

To move the block upward, a pull force (P) is applied as shown in Fig. 7.24(a).

From the FBD: P = W sin 30° = 750 sin 30° => P = 375 N

Therefore, Work done: W = P. x = 375 × 2.5 => W = 937.5 N-m (Joule)

(b) Work done when the plane is rough (μ = 0.2):

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita
From the FBD shown in Fig. 7.24(b):

P = W sin 30° + μ.N = W sin 30° + μ.W cos 30° = W (sin 30° + μ cos 30°)

= 750 × [sin 30° + (0.2 × cos 30°)] => P = 504.90 N

Therefore, Work done: W = P . x = 504.92 × 1.2 => W = 1262.26 N-m (Joule)

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Problem 7.33:

A force of 500 N applied initially and horizontally is just sufficient to move a body of 1250 N

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weight placed on a smooth horizontal surface. The force applied does not remain constant but
varies linearly with distance moved by the body, the linear variation is prescribed by the relation:

P = P0 + 8x

where P0 is the initial force and x is the distance moved by the body in meters. Depict the force-
distance diagram and determine the work done when the body has moved through 20 m distance.

Solution: The given relation between Force (F) and Distance moved (x) by the body is:

P = P0 + 8x

It is also given that, P0 = 500 N (initial force) W = 1250 N and x = 20 m

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

∴ (P)x = 20 m = 500 + (8 × 20) = 660 N

Since the variation of force is stated to be linear with distance moved by the body, therefore, the
initial and final points on the graph can be connected by a straight line as shown in the figure.

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Therefore, the work done after the body has been moved through a distance of x = 20 m will be
the area under the straight line AB.

∴ Work done = Area under triangle ABC + Area under rectangle OACD

= (1/2 × 20 × 160) + (20 × 500) => W = 11600 N-m (Joule)

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Problem 7.34:

A particle of mass 1 kg moves in a straight line under the influence of a force which increases

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linearly with time at the rate of 60 N per second. At time t = 0, initial force may be taken as
50 N. Determine the acceleration and velocity of a particle 4 seconds after it started from rest at
the origin.

Solution: Given data,

m = 1 kg F0 = 50 N at t = 0

linear increment rate of force = 60 N / second = dF/dt

We need to determine: v and a at t = 4 s

Since the force increment rate is stated to be linear, therefore the line connecting the points
(F)t and (F)t will be a straight line. As such, let the variation of force with time be

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= 0 = 4s

prescribed by the relation:

F = p.t + q [straight line equation y = mx + c] ……… (1)

Differentiating w.r.t. t, we get,

dF/dt = p => p = 60

Also, (F)t = 0 = p × 0 + q => 50 = 0 + q => q = 50

Therefore, putting the obtained values of p and q in equation (1), we get the final F-t relation as:

F = 60.t + 50 ……… (2)

∴ (F)t = 4s = (60 × 4) + 50 => (F)t = 4s = 290 N

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita
We know, F = ma => a = F/m = 290/1 => a = 290 m/s2

And, at any time t, the acceleration will be:

𝐹 60. 𝑡 + 50
𝑎= = [From (2)]
𝑚 𝑚

𝑑𝑣 60. 𝑡 + 50
⇒ = [∵ 𝑚 = 1 kg]
𝑑𝑡 1
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𝑣 𝑡 𝑡 𝑡

⇒ 𝑑𝑣 = (60. 𝑡 + 50)𝑑𝑡 ⇒ ∫ 𝑑𝑣 = ∫ 60. 𝑡 + 50 = [𝑣]𝑣0 = 60 ∫ 𝑡. 𝑑𝑡 + 50 ∫ 𝑑𝑡

0 0 0 0

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𝑡
𝑡2
⇒ 𝑣 = 60 [ ] + 50[𝑡]𝑡0 ⇒ 𝒗 = 𝟑𝟎𝒕𝟐 + 𝟓𝟎𝒕 … … … (3)
2 0

Therefore,

(v)t = 4s = (30 × 42) + (50 × 4) = 680 m/s

Problem 7.35:

A hammer of mass 200 kg is made to fall freely from 2 m height on the head of a pile 1500 kg
mass. The pile is driven 5 cm into the ground in one blow. Determine:

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(a) The common velocity of the pile and hammer after the impact,
(b) The energy lost in the impact, and
(c) The average resistance of the ground to penetration.

Solution: Given data,

m = 200 kg h=2m s = 5 cm = 0.05 cm M = 1500 kg

w = mg W = Mg
= 200 × 9.81 = 1500 × 9.81
= 1962 N = 14715 N

(a) Common velocity of the pile and the hammer after the impact:

Since the hammer is falling freely under gravity, u = 0 Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

∴ v2 – u2 = 2gh => v2 – 0 = 2gh ⇒ 𝑣 = √2𝑔ℎ = √2 × 9.81 × 2 ⇒ 𝒗 = 𝟔. 𝟐𝟔 𝒎⁄𝒔

Therefore, the hammer will strike the pile with velocity v = 6.26 m/s and then the pile and the
hammer will move as a single mass.

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Let, V be the common velocity of the hammer and pile

(m+M) after the impact and moves through a distance of

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s = 0.05 m as stated in the question.

Therefore, by applying the principle of conservation of

momentum, we get,

Total momentum before collision

= Total momentum after collision

=> mv = (m+M).V => 200 × 6.26 = (200 + 1500).V

𝟑𝟏𝟑
⇒ 𝐕= = 𝟎. 𝟕𝟑𝟔 𝒎⁄𝒔
𝟒𝟐𝟓

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

(b) Energy lost in the impact:

KE before impact = ½ mv2 = ½ × 200 × 6.262 = 3918.76 Joule

KE after impact = ½ (m+M).V2 = ½ × (200+1500) × (313/425)2 = 461.03 Joule

∴ Loss of KE during impact = 3918.76 – 461.03 = 3457.73 Joule

(c) Average resistance of the ground to penetration:

After penetration of s = 0.05 m into the ground, the velocity of the pile+hammer becomes zero.

∴ v2 – u2 = 2as = 02 – 0.7362 = 2.a × 0.05 => a = – 0.7362/(2 × 0.05) => a = –5.417 m/s2

The –ve sign indicates retardation. Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Let, Fr be the average resistance offered by the ground. Then, the net force acting in upward

direction is: Fn = Fr – (w + W)

We know, F = ma

=> Fn = (m+M).a => Fr – (w+W) = (m+M).a

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=> Fr – (m+M).g = (m+M).a

=> Fr = (m+M).g + (m+M).a = (m+M).(g+a)

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

=> Fr = (200+1500) × (9.81 + 5.417) [magnitude of a is considered]

=> Fr = 25885.9 N

Problem 7.36:

A hammer of mass 0.6 kg and moving with a velocity of 6 m/s drives a nail of 20 gm mass
horizontally into a fixed wooden block. The nail is stated to penetrate 25 mm per blow of
hammer. Work out the resistance offered by the block to penetration of nail and the energy lost
in driving the nail 75 mm inside the block.

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Solution: Given data, m = 20 gm = 0.02 kg M = 0.6 kg U = 6 m/s

(a) Resistance of the wooden block to penetration of the nail:

By applying the principle of conservation of

momentum, we get,

mu + MU = (m+M).V

=> (20 × 0) + (0.6 × 6) = (0.02 + 0.6).V

𝟏𝟖𝟎
⇒𝐕= = 𝟓. 𝟖𝟏 𝒎⁄𝒔
𝟑𝟏

The nail is stated to penetrate 0.025 m into the wooden block per blow of the hammer. As such,
Prepared by Ranbir Kalita
let R be the resistance force against penetration of the nail into the wooden block per blow of the
hammer. Therefore, from the work-energy relation, we know,

Work done per blow = Change in KE

=> –R . s = ½ (m+M) . (U2 – V2)

[–ve sign in front of R indicates that R acts in opposite direction of motion of the nail ]

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=> –R × 0.025 = ½ (0.02+0.6) . [02 – (180/31)2] = –324/31

=> R = 12960/31 = 418.06 N

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

(b) Energy lost for 75 mm penetration of the nail into the wooden block:

It is stated that, the nail penetrates 25 mm in one blow of the hammer, i.e. 75 mm penetration
would require 3 blows of the hammer.

∴ KE before impact = ½ × 0.6 × 62 = 10.8 Joule

And, KE after impact = ½ × (0.02+0.6) × (180/31)2 = 324/31 = 10.45 Joule

∴ Loss of KE per blow of the hammer = 10.8 – 10.45 = 0.35 Joule

And, Total loss in KE in 3 blows of the hammer = 0.35 × 3 = 1.05 Joule

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

NOTE: In this problem, the weights of the hammer and the nail will not contribute to work done
because the direction of the respective weights and the displacements of the hammer as well as
the nail are at right angles to each other.

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

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Work-Energy Principle

The principle states that, “Work done on an object equals the change in Kinetic Energy of the

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object.”

Fig. 7.25

As shown in Fig. 7.25, force F acting on an object of mass m has displaced it from position 1 to 2
that equals a displacement of s meters in the direction of force. Therefore, according to the

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Work-Energy principle, work done on the object is:

W1-2 = = ΔKE = (KE)2 – (KE)1

Proof: Let the object be displaced through elementary distance ds in the direction of applied
force as shown in Fig. 7.25. therefore, elementary work done by the force F is:

dW = F. ds ……… (1)

From Newton’s second law of motion:

𝑑𝑣 𝑑𝑠 𝑑𝑣 𝒅𝒗
𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎 = 𝑚. = 𝑚. . ⇒ 𝑭 = 𝒎. 𝒗. … … . . (2)
𝑑𝑡 𝑑𝑡 𝑑𝑠 𝒅𝒔

Putting the value of F from equation (2) in (1), we get,

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita
𝑑𝑣
𝑑𝑊 = (𝑚. 𝑣. ) . 𝑑𝑠 ⇒ 𝒅𝑾 = 𝒎. 𝒗. 𝒅𝒗 … … … (3)
𝑑𝑠

For total work done by the force F in moving the object from point 1 to 2 through a distance s,
integrate equation (3) with proper limits as shown below:

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2 2 2 2
𝑣2 1
∫ 𝑑𝑊 = ∫ 𝑚. 𝑣. 𝑑𝑣 ⇒ [𝑊]12 = 𝑚 ∫ 𝑣. 𝑑𝑣 ⇒ 𝑊1−2 = 𝑚 [ ] = 𝑚[𝑣2 2 − 𝑣1 2 ]
2 1 2
1 1 1

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1 1
⇒ 𝑊1−2 = 𝑚𝑣2 2 − 2 𝑚𝑣1 2 ⇒ 𝑾𝟏−𝟐 = (𝑲𝑬)𝟐 − (𝑲𝑬)𝟏 … … … (4)
2

Equation (4) represents the well-known Work-Energy Principle in Mechanics.

Conservation of Mechanical Energy:

In a conservative force field, the work done in moving an object from position-1 to position-2 is
independent of the path followed and depends on the change in Potential and/or Kinetic energy
of the end states depending on the direction of displacement. That is,

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W1-2 = (PE)1 – (PE)2 or W1-2 = (KE)1 – (KE)2

The law of conservation of mechanical energy states that:

“The total energy possessed by an object remains constant provided no energy is added or
subtracted from it.”

That is,
(PE + KE)1 = (PE + KE)2 = constant

=> Total Energy at position 1 = Total Energy at position 2 = constant

The function (PE + KE) possessed by an object is called total energy (mechanical energy)
possessed by the object.
Prepared by Ranbir Kalita
Proof: As shown in Fig. 7.26, an object of mass m is resting on the top of a tower of height h
from the ground. At this position,

1
(KE)0 = 𝑚𝑣0 2 = 𝟎 [∵ 𝑣0 = 0]
2

(PE)0 = 𝒎𝒈𝒉

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∴ Total Energy of the object at the top of the tower is

𝐸0 = (PE)0 + (KE)0 = 0 + 𝑚𝑔ℎ ⇒ 𝑬𝟎 = 𝒎𝒈𝒉 … … … (1)

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Energy at Position-1:

Let the object falls freely under gravity and when it reaches to position
1 at a distance h1 from the top of the tower, the velocity at this position
will be:

𝑣1 2 − 𝑣0 2 = 2𝑔ℎ1 ⇒ 𝑣1 2 − 02 = 2𝑔ℎ1 ⇒ 𝒗𝟏 𝟐 = 𝟐𝒈𝒉𝟏

Therefore, at position-1:
1 1
(KE)1 = 𝑚𝑣1 2 = 𝑚. 2𝑔ℎ1
2 2

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= 𝒎𝒈𝒉𝟏

(PE)1 = 𝒎𝒈(𝒉 − 𝒉𝟏 )

∴ 𝐸1 = (PE)1 + (KE)1 = 𝑚𝑔(ℎ − ℎ1 ) + 𝑚𝑔ℎ1 = 𝑚𝑔ℎ − 𝑚𝑔ℎ1 + 𝑚𝑔ℎ1

⇒ 𝑬𝟏 = 𝒎𝒈𝒉 … … … (2)

Energy at Position-2:

From position-1, when the object finally hits the ground, the velocity of the object at this
position-2 is:

𝑣2 2 − 𝑣1 2 = 2𝑔(ℎ − ℎ1 ) ⇒ 𝑣2 2 − 2𝑔ℎ1 = 2𝑔ℎ − 2𝑔ℎ1 ⇒ 𝒗𝟐 𝟐 = 𝟐𝒈𝒉

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Therefore, at position-2:
1 1
(KE)2 = 𝑚𝑣2 2 = 𝑚. 2𝑔ℎ = 𝒎𝒈𝒉
2 2

(PE)2 = 𝟎 [∵ ℎ = 0]

∴ 𝐸2 = (PE)2 + (KE)2 = 0 + 𝑚𝑔ℎ

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⇒ 𝑬𝟐 = 𝒎𝒈𝒉 … … … (3)

Thus, from equations (1), (2) and (3), we see that,

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E0 = E1 = E2

Therefore, it is proved that the total energy remains conserved throughout the motion.

Problem 7.37:

A shell of 80 kg mass is travelling with a velocity of 500 m/s. During its motion, it splits into two
equal portions which continue to travel in the same direction. If an energy equivalent to 1.5 × 106
N-m is released at the instant of explosion, determine the subsequent velocities of the two
portions.

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Solution: Given data,

M = 80 kg V = 500 m/s m1 = m2 = 40 kg (KE)explosion = 1.5 × 106 N-m

We need to find: v1 and v2 = ?

Applying the conservation of momentum principle, we get,

Total momentum before split = Total momentum after split

=> MU = m1v1 + m2v2

=> 80 × 500 = 40v1 + 40v2

=> 40(v1 + v2) = 40000

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=> v1 + v2 = 1000 => v2 = 1000 – v1 ……… (1)

Now, applying the conservation of energy principle, we get,

KE before explosion = KE after explosion

1 1 1
⇒ 𝑀𝑉 2 + (1.5 × 106 ) = 𝑚1 𝑣1 2 + 𝑚2 𝑣2 2
2 2 2

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1 1 1
⇒ × 80 × 5002 + (1.5 × 106 ) = × 40 × 𝑣1 2 + × 40 × 𝑣2 2
2 2 2

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⇒ 11500 × 103 = 20(𝑣1 2 + 𝑣2 2 ) ⇒ 𝒗𝟏 𝟐 + 𝒗𝟐 𝟐 = 𝟓𝟕𝟓𝟎𝟎𝟎 … … … (2)

Putin the value of v2 from equation (1) into equation (2), we get,

𝑣1 2 + (1000 − 𝑣1 )2 = 575000

⇒ 𝑣1 2 + 10002 − 2 × 1000 × 𝑣1 + 𝑣1 2 = 575000

−(−2000) ± √(−2000)2 − 4 × 2 × 425000

⇒ 2𝑣1 2 − 2000𝑣1 + 425000 = 0 ⇒ 𝑣1 =
2×2

2000 ± 774.6 2000 + 774.6 2000 − 774.6

⇒ 𝑣1 = ⇒ 𝑣1 = 𝑂𝑅 𝑣1 =
4 4 4

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⇒ 𝑣1 = 693.65 𝑚⁄𝑠 𝑂𝑅 𝑣1 = 306.35 𝑚⁄𝑠

When, v1 = 693.65 m/s (1) => v2 = 1000 – 693.65 = 306.35 m/s

When, v1 = 306.35 m/s (1) => v2 = 1000 – 306.35 = 693.65 m/s

∴ v1 = 693.65 m/s and v2 = 306.35 m/s

Problem 7.38:

A wooden block of weight 40 N rests on a rough horizontal plane having friction coefficient μ =
0.35. The block is stuck by a bullet travelling horizontally with a velocity of 750 m/s and
weighing 0.25 N. Workout the distance by which the block is displaced from its initial position.
Prepared by Ranbir Kalita
It may be presumed that the bullet after striking the block gets embedded in it.

Solution: Given data,

W = 40 N w = 0.25 N u = 750 m/s μ = 0.35

The FBD is shown in Fig. 7.27.

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 Engineering Mechanics : Module-7

Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

Fig. 7.27

Applying the conservation of momentum principle, we get,

Total momentum before impact = Total momentum after impact

=> mu + MU = (m+M).V

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0.25 0.25 40 6250 4025
⇒( × 750) + (𝑀 × 0) = ( + ).V ⇒ = .V
9.81 9.81 9.81 327 981

6250 981 𝟕𝟓𝟎

⇒V= × ⇒ 𝐕= = 𝟒. 𝟔𝟓𝟖 𝐦⁄𝐬
327 4025 𝟏𝟔𝟏

From the FBD shown in Fig. 7.27:

0.25 40
𝑁 = (𝑚 + 𝑀). 𝑔 = ( + ) × 9.81 ⇒ 𝑵 = 𝟒𝟎. 𝟐𝟓 𝐍
9.81 9.81

And, Frictional resistance: F = μ.N = 0.35 × 40.25 ⇒ 𝑭 = 𝟏𝟏𝟐𝟕⁄𝟖𝟎 = 𝟏𝟒. 𝟎𝟖𝟖 𝐍

Now, applying the Work-Energy principle, we get,

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Work done to overcome frictional force = KE lost by the block with the bullet embedded into it

1
⇒ 𝐹. 𝑠 = (𝑚 + 𝑀). V 2
2

1127 1 0.25 40 750 2 80 1 0.25 40 750 2

⇒ ×𝑠 = ×( + )×( ) ⇒𝑠= × ×( + )×( )
80 2 9.81 9.81 161 1127 2 9.81 9.81 161

⇒ 𝒔 = 𝟑. 𝟏𝟔 𝒎

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 Engineering Mechanics : Module-7

References:

• Dr. D. S. Kumar (4th revised edition 2013), Engineering Mechanics (Statics and

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Dynamics), S. K. Kataria & Sons, pp. 644-704, ISBN-13 : 978-93-5014-292-9, ISBN-10
: 81-88548-16-3-3.
• R. K. Rajput (3rd edition 2011), A Text Book of Applied Mechanics, Laxmi Publications
(P) Ltd., pp. 247-268.

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Prepared by Ranbir Kalita

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