PHYSICS · Multi-part · A Level · Physics · Mechanics and materials · Mechanics and materials
Problem
A research probe lands on an unknown planet Y. On the surface of the planet, a calibrated spring balance shows a reading of 68N when a standard mass of 10kg is suspended.
(i) Determine the acceleration due to gravity on planet Y.
(ii) The probe releases a scientific package of mass 2kg from rest at a height of 100m above the ground. Neglecting any atmosphere, calculate the time taken by the package to reach the surface.
(iii) Using your answers to parts (i) and (ii), check whether the calculated acceleration of the package during its fall is consistent with the value of g found in part (i).
(iv) Explain why the mass of the package does not affect the time of fall obtained in part (ii).