Edexcel IAL M1 Dynamics of a Particle Questions
F = ma in a straight line; connected particles over pulleys; tow-bars; lifts.
- M1 · Mechanics 1
- Calculator allowed
- 30 practice questions
What the questions test
The 30 M1 dynamics of a particle practice questions cover:
Worked example 1
Two particles A and B of masses $3 \text{ kg}$ and $5 \text{ kg}$ respectively are connected by a light inextensible string passing over a smooth fixed peg. The system is released from rest. Find the acceleration of the particles.
Mark scheme
- M1 for forming the equation for B (moving downwards): $5g - T = 5a$.
- M1 for forming the equation for A (moving upwards): $T - 3g = 3a$.
- M1 for adding the equations to eliminate $T$: $2g = 8a$.
- A1 for calculating $a = 0.25g = 2.45 \text{ m s}^{-2}$.
Worked example 2
Particle A of mass $4 \text{ kg}$ lies on a smooth horizontal table. It is connected by a light inextensible string passing over a smooth pulley at the edge of the table to particle B of mass $6 \text{ kg}$, which hangs freely. The system is released from rest. Find the acceleration of the system.
Mark scheme
- M1 for forming the equation for B (moving downwards): $6g - T = 6a$.
- M1 for forming the equation for A (moving horizontally): $T = 4a$.
- M1 for solving simultaneously by substituting $T$: $6g - 4a = 6a \implies 6g = 10a$.
- A1 for calculating $a = 0.6g = 5.88 \text{ m s}^{-2}$.
FAQ
What dynamics of a particle is in Edexcel IAL M1?
F = ma in a straight line; connected particles over pulleys; tow-bars; lifts.
Is M1 a calculator paper?
Yes, a calculator is allowed in M1, but method marks are only given for working you write down.
How are M1 dynamics of a particle questions marked?
With M marks for a correct method, A marks for accurate answers that depend on the M mark before them, and B marks for independent results, as in the worked examples on this page.