Two identical students push two trolleys P and Q on a smooth horizontal track
PHYSICS · Multi-part · A Level · Physics · Mechanics and materials · Mechanics and materials
Problem
Two identical students push two trolleys P and Q on a smooth horizontal track. The mass of trolley P is m while that of trolley Q is 2m. Each student applies a constant horizontal force of equal magnitude F for the same time interval.
(i) Explain which trolley acquires greater acceleration and give the reason for your answer.
(ii) The student pushing trolley Q now doubles the applied force to 2F while the student pushing trolley P keeps applying F. Compare the new accelerations of P and Q, stating the ratio aP:aQ.
(iii) If the force on trolley P is suddenly reversed in direction while its magnitude remains F, describe the change, if any, in the magnitude and direction of its acceleration.