A puck is struck twice in separate trials on frictionless ice and is initially at…
PHYSICS · Single correct · CBSE · Physics · Laws of Motion · Laws of Motion
Problem
A 1.0kg puck is struck twice in separate trials on frictionless ice and is initially at rest before each strike.
• Trial X: A constant horizontal force of 4N acts for 2s.
• Trial Y: A constant horizontal force of 2N acts for 4s.
Which statement correctly compares the puck’s speed immediately after the two trials?
(a) The puck is faster after Trial X because the larger force produces a greater acceleration, so the puck gains more speed.
(b) The puck reaches the same speed in both trials because each delivers the same impulse.
(c) The speeds cannot be compared without knowing how far the puck moves during each trial, since the work done determines the final speed.
(d) The puck is faster after Trial Y because the force acts for a longer time, giving the puck more time to speed up.