PHYS 172 FINAL EXAM : PRACTICE (Total Points = 400 ) KEY SOLS TWEAK SPRING 2021

Problem 01: [13 points]

This diagram (not to scale) shows the orbit of a
planet moving around a star. Which arrow best
represents the direction of the rate of change of the
planet’s momentum when the planet is at the
location shown?

A)

B)

C)

D)

E)

HOW TO SOLVE:
The direction of change in momentum is SAME as the direction of the net force.
The net force acting on the planet is toward the sun
So, the direction of change in momentum is also toward the sun.
Common ERROR: Direction of change in momentum is either same as or opposite to direction of motion.

HOW TO TWEAK:
Similar problem, but instead of a planet and a star, it could be other two celestial objects e.g. a satellite and
planet. In either case, the gravitational force acts toward the stationary object, and that is the direction of
the change in momentum.
PHYS 172 FINAL EXAM : PRACTICE (Total Points = 400 ) KEY SOLS TWEAK SPRING 2021

Problem 02: [13 points]

A bird has an average velocity of < 10, -5, 0 > m/s for a time of 2.0 seconds. The bird’s initial
position is < -50, 100, 0 > m.

What is the bird’s final position at the end of the 2.0 seconds?

A) < 70, 110, 0> m/s

B) <-70, -110, 0> m/s

C) <30, -90, 0> m/s

D) <-30, 90, 0> m/s

E) None of the above

HOW TO SOLVE:
Use position update: 𝑟⃗𝑓 = 𝑟⃗𝑖 + 𝑣⃗𝑎𝑣𝑔 ∆𝑡.
Here: 𝑟⃗𝑖 = 〈−50,100,0〉𝑚 𝑣⃗𝑎𝑣𝑔 = 〈10, −5,0〉 𝑚/𝑠 ∆𝑡 = 2.0𝑠

HOW TO TWEAK:
Similar problem, different numbers
What is asked and what is given might be interchanged. E.g. given final position, average velocity, and time
you are asked to find the initial position. Or given both initial and final position and time, you are asked to
find average velocity
.
PHYS 172 FINAL EXAM : PRACTICE (Total Points = 400 ) KEY SOLS TWEAK SPRING 2021

Problem 03: [14 points]

A vehicle travels along a circular path as shown in the figure. From A to B, the vehicle
maintains a constant speed of 4 m/s, from B to C, 8 m/s, and from C to D, 12 m/s.

What is the average speed of the vehicle in traveling from A to D?

A) 6.0 m/s

B) 6.5 m/s

C) 8.0 m/s

D) 8.5 m/s

E) 9.0 m/s

HOW TO SOLVE
See Recitation 01 Problem 2

HOW TO TWEAK:
• Change the shape of the path to triangle, rectangle, square, trapezoid. Anything else that you can
measure the sides of.
• Ask for average velocity NOT average speed. For average velocity, must find total displacement (final –
initial position), and divide by total time.
PHYS 172 FINAL EXAM : PRACTICE (Total Points = 400 ) KEY SOLS TWEAK SPRING 2021

Problem 04: [13 points]

Five identical springs, each with stiffness 100 N/m, are first connected in series (that is, end-
to-end), and then connected in parallel (that is side by side). What is the effective stiffness in
each case?

A) 500 N/m in series, 20 N/m in parallel.

B) 20 N/m in series, 500 N/m in parallel.

C) 50 N/m in series, 250 N/m in parallel.

D) 100 N/m in both cases.

E) None of the above

HOW TO SOLVE:
𝑘
𝑘𝑠𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑒𝑠 = 𝑖𝑛𝑑𝑖𝑣𝑖𝑑𝑢𝑎𝑙
𝑁 𝑠𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑒𝑠

𝑘𝑝𝑎𝑟𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑙 = 𝑘𝑖𝑛𝑑𝑖𝑣𝑖𝑑𝑢𝑎𝑙 𝑁𝑝𝑎𝑟𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑙

HOW TO TWEAK:
• Different numbers
• Asked for change in extension instead of change in 𝑘.
o Extension is inversely proportional to 𝑘, so when 𝑘 increases, extension decreases and vice versa
PHYS 172 FINAL EXAM : PRACTICE (Total Points = 400 ) KEY SOLS TWEAK SPRING 2021

Problem 05: [14 points]

An elevator is accelerating downward at a rate of 4.0 m/s2. A block of mass 20 kg hangs by a
low-mass rope from the ceiling and another block of mass 80 kg hangs by a low-mass rope
from the upper block.

What is the tension in the lower rope? For this problem, g = 10 m/s2.

A) 480 N

B) 280 N

C) 120 N

D) 1120 N

E) 600 N

HOW TO SOLVE:
𝑑𝑝⃗𝑠𝑦𝑠 ⃗⃗𝑠𝑦𝑠
𝑑𝑣
Momentum Principle: 𝐹⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 𝑑𝑡 = 𝑚 = 𝑚𝑎⃗𝑠𝑦𝑠
𝑑𝑡
System: Lower Mass (𝑚2 = 80𝑘𝑔)
Surroundings: Earth, Lower Rope
𝑇2 − 𝑚2 𝑔 = −𝑚2 𝑎
→ 𝑇2 = 𝑚2 𝑔−𝑚2 𝑎

HOW TO TWEAK:
• Asked for tension in upper string, 𝑇1 .
o System should be both blocks. Force due to Earth is −𝑚2 𝑔 − 𝑚1 𝑔
• Different situation e.g. only one block and one string hanging.
• Acceleration is upward instead of downward
PHYS 172 FINAL EXAM : PRACTICE (Total Points = 400 ) KEY SOLS TWEAK SPRING 2021

Problem 06: [14 points]

The figure below shows three blocks initially at rest
on a frictionless table. The blocks have masses,
𝑚1 = 1𝑘𝑔, 𝑚2 = 2𝑘𝑔, 𝑚3 = 3 𝑘𝑔. You exert a
horizontal force 𝐹⃗ = 〈18,0,0〉 𝑁 on the block on
the left
What is the force that the block on the right exerts on the middle block?
A) 〈18,0,0〉 𝑁
B) 〈−9,0,0〉 𝑁
C) 〈0,0,0〉 𝑁
D) 〈15,0,0〉 𝑁
E) 〈−18,0,0〉 𝑁

HOW TO SOLVE:
𝑑𝑝⃗𝑠𝑦𝑠 ⃗⃗𝑠𝑦𝑠
𝑑𝑣
Momentum Principle: 𝐹⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 𝑑𝑡 = 𝑚 𝑑𝑡 = 𝑚𝑎⃗𝑠𝑦𝑠
System: All three masses (𝑚1 = 1𝑘𝑔, 𝑚2 = 2𝑘𝑔, 𝑚3 = 3 𝑘𝑔)
Surroundings: Earth, Surface
Ignore vertical (y) direction, because weight of each block balanced by normal reaction.
Focus on x direction
𝐹⃗
𝐹⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 = (𝑚1 + 𝑚2 + 𝑚3 )𝑎⃗ → 𝐹⃗ = (𝑚1 + 𝑚2 + 𝑚3 )𝑎⃗ → 𝑎⃗ = (𝑚1 +𝑚2 +𝑚3 )
Next use reciprocity because force of 𝑚3 on 𝑚2 is equal and opposite to force of 𝑚2 o 𝑚3 : 𝐹⃗3 𝑜𝑛 2 = −𝐹⃗2 𝑜𝑛 3
We do this b/c it is easier to solve for forces on 𝑚3 than on 𝑚2 , since there is only one force acting on 𝑚3
System: Masse (𝑚3 = 3 𝑘𝑔)
Surroundings: Earth, Surface, Mass (𝑚2 = 2𝑘𝑔)
Ignore vertical (y) direction, because weight of each block balanced by normal reaction.
Focus on x direction, and note that acceleration is the same for ALL blocks, because they move together
𝐹⃗
𝐹⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 𝑜𝑛 3 = 𝑚3 𝑎 → 𝐹⃗2 𝑜𝑛 3 = 𝑚3 𝑎 → 𝐹⃗2 𝑜𝑛 3 = 𝑚3
(𝑚1 +𝑚2 +𝑚3 )
𝑚3 𝐹⃗
Finally: 𝐹⃗3 𝑜𝑛 2 = −𝐹⃗2 𝑜𝑛 3 = − (𝑚
1 +𝑚2 +𝑚3 )

HOW TO TWEAK:
• You could be asked for forces acting on 𝑚2 .
o In addition to above, set up the system again. This time, you use 𝑚2 as the system
• Different situation e.g. only two blocks and you are asked for the force one block exerts on the other.
PHYS 172 FINAL EXAM : PRACTICE (Total Points = 400 ) KEY SOLS TWEAK SPRING 2021

Problem 07: [13 points]

Both boxes are initially at rest on

horizontal ice. You apply a force as
shown on the top block, such that the
two blocks move together.

How much work does the bottom box do on the top box as you push the boxes a distance 𝒅?
𝑚
A) 𝐹𝑑
𝑀+𝑚
𝑀
B) 𝐹𝑑
𝑀+𝑚
𝑚
C) 𝐹𝑑
𝑀
𝑚
D) − 𝐹𝑑
𝑀+𝑚
𝑀
E) − 𝐹𝑑
𝑀+𝑚

Step1: Consider both blocks (𝑚 + 𝑀) as system, and apply momentum principle to it:
𝑑𝑝⃗𝑠𝑦𝑠 ⃗⃗𝑠𝑦𝑠
𝑑𝑣 𝐹
𝐹⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 = → 𝐹 = (𝑀 + 𝑚) = (𝑀 + 𝑚)𝑎⃗𝑠𝑦𝑠 → 𝑎⃗𝑠𝑦𝑠 = to the right.
(𝑀+𝑚)
𝑑𝑡 𝑑𝑡
Step 2: Since we are asked for work done on upper block by lower block, let's find force on upper block by
lower block.
Let that force be 𝑓. Because the upper block would naturally tend to move to the right, the force of friction
that the lower block exerts on the upper block opposes this tended motion and is to the left.
So, now let's consider the upper block alone to be the system and apply the momentum principle to it:
𝑑𝑝⃗𝑠𝑦𝑠 𝑑𝑝⃗ ⃗⃗
𝑑𝑣 𝐹−𝑓
𝐹⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 = → 𝐹 − 𝑓 = 𝑚 = 𝑚 𝑚 → 𝐹 − 𝑓 = 𝑚𝑎⃗𝑚 → 𝑎⃗𝑚 =
𝑑𝑡 𝑑𝑡 𝑑𝑡 𝑚
[Note: Net force on upper block is difference between force 𝐹 that you apply and force 𝑓 that lower block
applies on upper block, which is on opposite direction]
Step 3: The blocks move together, so they must have the same acceleration 𝑎⃗𝑠𝑦𝑠 = 𝑎⃗𝑚
𝐹 𝐹−𝑓
Using the values of accelerations from Step 1 & Step 2 and equating them: (𝑀+𝑚) = 𝑚
𝑀
Rearranging this: 𝑓 = 𝐹 (𝑀+𝑚)
Step 4: Finding work done by this force 𝑓: 𝑊𝑏𝑦𝑓 = 𝑓⃗ ∙ 𝑑⃗
𝑀
Note that 𝑑⃗ and 𝑓⃗ are in opposite directions, so 𝑊𝑏𝑦𝑓 = −𝑓𝑑 → 𝑊𝑏𝑦𝑓 = −𝐹𝑑 (𝑀+𝑚)
HOW TO TWEAK:
• Similar situation, but instead of force 𝐹 being applied to upper block, force 𝐹 is applied to lower block.
(See the Worked Example provided in one of the Recitations before EXAM 1)
• Again, look at EXAM 2 for the problem when you are asked to find the work done by the contact force.
PHYS 172 FINAL EXAM : PRACTICE (Total Points = 400 ) KEY SOLS TWEAK SPRING 2021

Problem 08: [13 points]

A thin platinum bar is 1 m long with a 1 mm  1 mm cross section and is attached to the
ceiling. When a 10 kg mass hangs from the bar it stretches 1.8 mm.

Next, we hang the same mass from a 2 m long platinum bar that has a 3 mm  3 mm cross
section.

What is the stretch in the bar now?

A) 0.2 mm

B) 0.4 mm

C) 3.6 mm

D) 0.9 mm

E) 0.1 mm

HOW TO SOLVE:
Main Idea: Y is the same in both cases described.
𝐹 /𝐴 𝐹𝐿 𝑀 𝑔𝐿
• 1st Case: 𝑌 = ∆𝐿1 /𝐿1 = ∆𝐿1 𝐴1 = ∆𝐿1(𝑑21)
1 1 1 1 1 1
𝐹2 /𝐴2 𝐹2 𝐿2 𝑀2 𝑔𝐿2
• 2nd Case: 𝑌 = ∆𝐿 = ∆𝐿 = ∆𝐿 2
2 /𝐿2 2 𝐴2 2 (𝑑2 )
• Setting them equal to each other:
𝑀1 𝑔𝐿1 𝑀2 𝑔𝐿2
• 2 =
∆𝐿 (𝑑 )
1 1 ∆𝐿 (𝑑2 )
2 2
• Solve for ∆𝐿2

HOW TO TWEAK:
• In this example M1 = M2, but it need not be so, you might be given different numbers for each.
• The cross section may be circular with diameter given in each case. The solution will basically be same,
because the factor of  will cancel out.
PHYS 172 FINAL EXAM : PRACTICE (Total Points = 400 ) KEY SOLS TWEAK SPRING 2021

Problem 09: [14 points]

A piece of cork (density 250 kg/m3) of mass 0.01 kg is held in place under water (density 1000
kg/m3) by a string.

What is the magnitude of the tension, 𝑻, in the string? [Use g = 10 m/s2]

A) 0.1 N
B) 0.2 N
C) 0.3 N
D) 0.4 N
E) 0.5 N

HOW TO SOLVE:
Equilibrium : So 𝐹⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 0
➔ 𝐹𝑏𝑢𝑜𝑦𝑎𝑛𝑡 − 𝐹𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑣 − 𝐹𝑇 = 0
➔ (𝑉𝑐𝑜𝑟𝑘 𝜌𝑓𝑙𝑢𝑖𝑑 𝑔) − (𝑚𝑐𝑜𝑟𝑘 𝑔) − 𝐹𝑇 = 0
𝑚
But, 𝑉𝑐𝑜𝑟𝑘 is not given, so use 𝑉𝑐𝑜𝑟𝑘 = 𝜌 𝑐𝑜𝑟𝑘
𝑐𝑜𝑟𝑘
Substitute this in above formula, Solve for only unknown 𝐹𝑇

HOW TO TWEAK:
• Floatation: 𝐹⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 0
• 𝐹𝑏𝑢𝑜𝑦𝑎𝑛𝑡 − 𝐹𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑣 = 0
• (𝑉𝑠𝑢𝑏𝑚𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑒𝑑 𝜌𝑙𝑖𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑑 𝑔) − (𝑉𝑏𝑜𝑑𝑦 𝜌𝑏𝑜𝑑𝑦 𝑔) = 0
o If you know three out of four : 𝑉𝑠𝑢𝑏𝑚𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑒𝑑 , 𝑉𝑏𝑜𝑑𝑦 , 𝜌𝑏𝑜𝑑𝑦 , 𝜌𝑙𝑖𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑑 , you can find the fourth unknown.
PHYS 172 FINAL EXAM : PRACTICE (Total Points = 400 ) KEY SOLS TWEAK SPRING 2021

Problem 10: [14 points]

Using a string, you pull a 2.0-kg box along a

nearly frictionless table with a constant force
of 100 N, starting from rest. The box is full of
liquid and is a cube of dimensions 1m x 1m x
1m. The center of mass of the system is
initially located at 𝑟𝐶𝑀𝑖 = 〈0.5, 0.5, 0〉 𝑚
relative to the left, lower corner of the box. At some time later, your hand has pulled through
a distance of 2 m, and the center of mass has shifted to 𝑟𝐶𝑀𝑓 = 〈2.25, 0.5, 0〉. The fluid and
box is defined as “the system.” There is no energy transferred thermally between the system
and its surroundings.

What is the change in internal energy of the system?

A) 50 J
B) 25 J
C) 175 J
D) 75 J
E) 200 J

HOW TO SOLVE:
This is one of the vast set of problems which follow a similar procedure.
Step 1: EP for Point Particle System: ∆𝐾𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 = 𝐹⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 ∙ ∆𝑟⃗𝑐𝑚
→ ∆𝐾𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 = 〈100,0,0〉 ∙ (〈2.25,0.50,0〉 − 〈0.50,0.50,0〉 →∆𝐾𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 = 〈100,0,0〉 ∙ 〈1.75,0,0〉 = 175 𝐽
Step 2: EP for Extended System: ∆𝐾𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 + ∆𝐾𝑟𝑜𝑡 + ∆𝐸𝑖𝑛𝑡 = (𝐹⃗1 ∙ ∆𝑟⃗1 ) + (𝐹⃗2 ∙ ∆𝑟⃗2 ) + ⋯
→ ∆𝐾𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 + 0 + ∆𝐸𝑖𝑛𝑡 = 𝐹⃗1 ∙ ∆𝑟⃗1
(See figure above to show how ∙ ∆𝑟⃗1 = 〈2,0,0〉 This is the displacement of point of application of
force)
Get ∆𝐾𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 from Step 1 above, and substitute
→ 175𝐽 + 0 + ∆𝐸𝑖𝑛𝑡 = 〈100,0,0〉 ∙ 〈2,0,0〉 →∆𝐸𝑖𝑛𝑡 = 25𝐽

HOW TO TWEAK:
See problem of kitten pulling yarn in Lecture 27
This was also a Problem 2 in Recitation 10 Solutions are provided.
PHYS 172 FINAL EXAM : PRACTICE (Total Points = 400 ) KEY SOLS TWEAK SPRING 2021

Problem 11: [13 points]

A string is wrapped around a hockey
puck (disk) of mass 𝑴 and radius 𝑹
that sits on a frictionless horizontal ice
surface. The figure below shows the
view from the top. Starting from rest
you pull the string with a constant
force 𝑭 along a nearly frictionless
surface. At the instant when the center of the puck has moved a distance 𝒅, a length 𝑳 of
string has unwound from the disk.
At this instant what is the angular speed, 𝝎 of the disk about its center of mass?
1
Note: The moment of inertia of a disk is 𝐼 = 𝑀𝑅2 .
2

2 𝐹𝐿
A) 𝜔= √
𝑅 𝑀

2 𝐹𝑑
B) 𝜔= √
𝑅 𝑀

2 𝐹
C) 𝜔 = √ (𝐿 + 𝑑)
𝑅 𝑀

2 𝐹 2𝜋𝑅
D) 𝜔= √ 𝐿
𝑅 𝑀 𝑑

2 𝐹 2𝜋𝑅
E) 𝜔= √ 𝑑
𝑅 𝑀 𝐿

HOW TO SOLVE:
This is one of the vast set of problems which follow a similar procedure.
Step 1: EP for Point Particle System: ∆𝐾𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 = 𝐹⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 ∙ ∆𝑟⃗𝑐𝑚
So: ∆𝐾𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 = 𝐹𝑑 (|𝐹⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 | = 𝐹, |∆𝑟⃗𝑐𝑚 | = 𝑑, and they are in the same direction)
Step 2: EP for Extended System: ∆𝐾𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 + ∆𝐾𝑟𝑜𝑡 + ∆𝐸𝑖𝑛𝑡 = (𝐹⃗1 ∙ ∆𝑟⃗1 ) + (𝐹⃗2 ∙ ∆𝑟⃗2 ) + ⋯
1
→ ∆𝐾𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 + 𝐼(𝜔2 − 02 ) + 0 = 𝐹(𝐿 + 𝑑)
2
1
Substitute from Point Particle system: 𝐹𝑑 + 2 𝐼𝜔2 = 𝐹(𝐿 + 𝑑)
1 2𝐹𝐿 2𝐹𝐿 2 2𝐹𝐿
→ 2 𝐼𝜔2 = 𝐹𝐿 →𝜔=√ →𝜔=√ 1 →𝜔 = 𝑅√
𝐼 ( )𝑀𝑅 2 𝑀
2
HOW TO TWEAK:
Instead of a disk it could be some other object that has a different moment of inertia, such as a composite
object in one of the homework problems where you had a disk with 4 masses attached to it.
PHYS 172 FINAL EXAM : PRACTICE (Total Points = 400 ) KEY SOLS TWEAK SPRING 2021

Problems 12 – 13:
A rod of uniform density and mass 𝑀, length 𝐿 has one end anchored
to the wall by a hinge that allows it to rotate freely in the xy plane (x
right and y up).
Problem 12: [13 points]
What magnitude of upward force do you have to exert at a point
4L/5 from the hinge to keep the rod at rest in the position shown?
A) 0.80 𝑀g
B) 0.50 𝑀𝑔
C) 0.75 𝑀𝑔
D) 0.63 𝑀𝑔
E) 𝑀𝑔
HOW TO SOLVE:
This is an equilibrium problem: 𝜏⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 0 (Ang. Mom. Princ.) AND 𝐹⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 0 (Mom. Principle)
• We do NOT know the forces through the hinge, so we pick that as our pivot for 𝜏⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 0
• 𝜏⃗𝐹 + 𝜏⃗𝑀𝑔 = 0
• Finding each of these torques separately:
Finding 𝜏⃗𝑇 : Direction of 𝜏⃗𝐹 is clockwise −𝑧̂ . Magnitude |𝜏⃗𝐹 | = 𝐹(4𝐿/5)
𝐿
Finding 𝜏⃗𝑀𝑔 : Direction of 𝜏⃗𝑀𝑔 is counterclockwise +𝑧̂ . Magnitude |𝜏⃗𝑀𝑔 | = (𝑀𝑔) (2)
4𝐿 𝐿 5𝑀𝑔
Substitute in 𝜏⃗𝐹 + 𝜏⃗𝑀𝑔 = 0 → −𝐹 ( 5 ) 𝑧̂ + (𝑀𝑔) (2) 𝑧̂ = 0 → 𝐹 = 8
HOW TO TWEAK:
• Similar Situation. The location of where 𝐹 is applied can be changed to a different point.
Problem 13: [13 points]
If you let go of the rod the previous question, what is the magnitude of its angular
acceleration immediately after you release it? Recall that the moment of inertia of a rod
1
taken about its end is 𝐼 = 𝑀𝐿2 .
3
A) 𝑔/𝐿
B) 3𝑔/2𝐿
C) 3𝑔/𝐿
D) 𝑔/2𝐿
E) 2𝑔/3𝐿
⃗⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡
𝜏
HOW TO SOLVE: Angular Acceleration: 𝛼⃗ =
𝐼ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑒
• Let us find each separately:
𝐿
Net torque is due to weight of rod: 𝜏⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 𝜏⃗𝑀𝑔 = (𝑀𝑔) (2) 𝑧̂
𝐿 2
Mom of Inertia of rod about hinge: 𝐼ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑒 = 𝐼𝐶𝑀 + 𝑀 (2)
1 𝐿 2 1
→𝐼ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑒 = 𝑀𝐿2 + 𝑀 ( ) → 𝐼ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑒 = 𝑀𝐿2
12 2 3
𝐿
⃗⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡
𝜏 (𝑀𝑔)( ) 3𝑔
• Substituting: 𝛼⃗ = 𝐼 → 𝛼⃗ = 1
2
𝑧̂ → 𝛼⃗ = 𝑧̂
ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑒 𝑀𝐿2 2𝐿
3
PHYS 172 FINAL EXAM : PRACTICE (Total Points = 400 ) KEY SOLS TWEAK SPRING 2021

Problem 14: [13 points]

A block of mass 𝑚 is in free fall as shown. At the
instant when it is at height ℎ above the ground, its
speed is 𝑣 in the downward direction.

What is the rate of change of the angular

momentum about point A?
⃗
𝑑𝐿
A) = 𝑚𝑔𝑥𝑧̂
𝑑𝑡
⃗
𝑑𝐿
B) = −𝑚𝑔𝑥𝑧̂
𝑑𝑡
⃗
𝑑𝐿
C) = −𝑚𝑔ℎ𝑧̂
𝑑𝑡
⃗
𝑑𝐿
D) = 𝑚𝑔ℎ𝑧̂
𝑑𝑡
⃗
𝑑𝐿
E) = −𝑚𝑔𝑟𝑧̂
𝑑𝑡

⃗⃗
∆𝐿
HOW TO SOLVE: Angular Momentum Principle: ∆𝑡 = 𝜏⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡
Finding 𝜏⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 :
• Magnitude of 𝜏⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 : |𝜏⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 | = 𝐹𝑛𝑒𝑡 𝑟⊥ = (𝑚𝑔)𝑥
• Direction of 𝜏⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 : Right Hand Rule → Clockwise: −𝑧̂
⃗⃗
∆𝐿
So: ∆𝑡 = 𝜏⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 = −(𝑚𝑔)𝑥 𝑧̂
HOW TO TWEAK:
• Similar situation, but you could be given only this problem not the previous one.
• Keep in mind that the answer to this part does NOT depend upon velocity.
PHYS 172 FINAL EXAM : PRACTICE (Total Points = 400 ) KEY SOLS TWEAK SPRING 2021

Problem 15 [13 points]

𝑚
A small satellite of mass 𝑚1 = 100 𝑘𝑔 has velocity 𝑣⃗1𝑖 = 〈12, 0, −8〉 just before being
𝑠
𝑚
struck by a piece of space junk of mass 𝑚2 = 2 𝑘𝑔 with velocity 𝑣⃗2𝑖 = 〈−500, 0, 300〉
𝑠
Immediately after the collision the space junk’s velocity is. 𝑣⃗2𝑓 = 〈200, 0, −300〉 𝑚/𝑠

What is the approximate satellite’s 𝑣⃗1𝑓 velocity then?

A) 𝑣⃗1𝑓 = 〈−200, 0, 400〉 𝑚/𝑠

B) 𝑣⃗1𝑓 = 〈600, 0, −800〉 𝑚/𝑠
C) 𝑣⃗1𝑓 = 〈−2, 0, 4〉 𝑚/𝑠
D) 𝑣⃗1𝑓 = 〈6, 0, −8〉 𝑚/𝑠
E) 𝑣⃗1𝑓 = 〈12, 0, −8〉 𝑚/𝑠

HOW TO SOLVE:
𝑑𝑝⃗𝑠𝑦𝑠 𝑑𝑝⃗𝑠𝑦𝑠
Momentum Principle: 𝐹⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 𝑑𝑡 → 0 = 𝑑𝑡 → 𝑝⃗𝑠𝑦𝑠,𝑖 = 𝑝⃗𝑠𝑦𝑠,𝑓
𝑚1 𝑣⃗1,𝑖 + 𝑚2 𝑣⃗2,𝑖 = 𝑚1 𝑣⃗1,𝑓 + 𝑚2 𝑣⃗2,𝑓 Plug in the knowns to solve for the unknowns
𝑚 𝑚 𝑚
(100 𝑘𝑔)〈12, 0, −8〉 + (2 𝑘𝑔)〈−500, 0,300〉 = (100 𝑘𝑔)𝑣⃗1,𝑓 + (2 𝑘𝑔)〈200, 0, −300〉
𝑠 𝑠 𝑠
Solve for 𝑣⃗1,𝑓

HOW TO TWEAK:
• Similar situation, but you are told that the objects stick together after the collision, moving with a
common velocity 𝑣⃗𝑓 (See Exam 3 Practice Problem 1)
• To find 𝑣⃗𝑓 use the fact that : 𝑚1 𝑣⃗1,𝑖 + 𝑚2 𝑣⃗2,𝑖 = (𝑚1 + 𝑚2 )𝑣⃗𝑓
⃗⃗1,𝑖 +𝑚2 𝑣
𝑚1 𝑣 ⃗⃗2,𝑖
→ Solve for: 𝑣⃗𝑓 = (𝑚1 +𝑚2 )
PHYS 172 FINAL EXAM : PRACTICE (Total Points = 400 ) KEY SOLS TWEAK SPRING 2021

Problem 16: [13 points]

A block of mass 𝑀𝐴 = 10 𝑘𝑔 and specific heat 𝐶𝐴 has an initial temperature of 𝑇𝐴 . It is
brought into thermal contact with a second block of mass 𝑀𝐵 = 5 𝑘𝑔 g and specific heat 𝐶𝐵 at
temperature 𝑇𝐵 . When the two blocks have come to equilibrium, they are at temperature 𝑇.
Block A’s temperature has increased by 4 𝐾 while block B’s temperature has decreased by
10 𝐾.
𝐶𝐴
What is the value of the ratio ?
𝐶𝐵

𝐶𝐴
A) = 1.25
𝐶𝐵

𝐶𝐴
B) = 0.20
𝐶𝐵

𝐶𝐴
C) = 5.0
𝐶𝐵

𝐶𝐴
D) = 0.80
𝐶𝐵

𝐶𝐴
E) = 1.0
𝐶𝐵

HOW TO SOLVE:
Energy Principle: ∆𝐸𝑖𝑛𝑡,𝑠𝑦𝑠 = 𝑄 + 𝑊𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑟
Here, heat is not exchanged with surr. (𝑄 = 0), and no work is done on system (𝑊𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑟 = 0) → ∆𝐸𝑖𝑛𝑡,𝑠𝑦𝑠 = 0
→ ∆𝐸𝑖𝑛𝑡,𝐴 + ∆𝐸𝑖𝑛𝑡,𝐵 = 0 → 𝑚𝐴 𝐶𝐴 ∆𝑇𝐴 + 𝑚𝐵 𝐶𝐵 ∆𝑇𝐵 = 0 Keep in mind that ∆𝑇𝐴 is positive, ∆𝑇𝐵 is negative.
𝐶𝐴
We are given everything except 𝐶𝐴 and 𝐶𝐵 . So, you can manipulate the equation to get
𝐶𝐵

HOW TO TWEAK:
The situation can be similar i.e. there are two objects that are brought in contact, so that they achieve thermal
equilibrium, but you can be asked to find, say the final temperature, when everything else (initial temperatures,
masses, specific heats) are given.
• To do this use: → 𝑚1 𝐶1 (𝑇𝑓 − 𝑇𝑖,1 ) + 𝑚2 𝐶2 (𝑇𝑓 − 𝑇𝑖,2 ) = 0
• Keep in mind that the ∆𝑇 for each object is always Final Temperature – Initial Temperature, where Final Temperature
is the same for both objects, while their initial temperatures might be different.
• Also, keep in mind that the SUM of the two ∆𝐸𝑖𝑛𝑡 is zero for both i.e. you should ADD the two, not subtract them.
PHYS 172 FINAL EXAM : PRACTICE (Total Points = 400 ) KEY SOLS TWEAK SPRING 2021

Problem 17: [14 points]

A budding gymnast of mass 𝑀 = 𝟒𝟎 𝒌𝒈 balances herself on
a uniform rigid beam of mass 𝑚 = 𝟏𝟎 𝒌𝒈 as shown. The
beam is supported by one support at each end. The
supports are a distance 𝐿 = 𝟐 𝒎 apart. The gymnast is at
a distance 𝑑 = 𝟎. 𝟓𝒎 from the left support.
What is the magnitude of the vertical upward force exerted
on the beam by each support?
𝑚
Note: Acceleration due to gravity 𝑔 = 10 2
𝑠

A) 𝐹𝐿 = 400 𝑁 , 𝐹𝑅 = 100 𝑁

B) 𝐹𝐿 = 250 𝑁, 𝐹𝑅 = 250 𝑁

C) 𝐹𝐿 = 300 𝑁, 𝐹𝑅 = 200 𝑁

D) 𝐹𝐿 = 350 𝑁, 𝐹𝑅 = 150 𝑁

E) None of the above

HOW TO SOLVE:
This is an equilibrium problem: 𝜏⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 0 (Ang. Mom. Princ.) AND 𝐹⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 0 (Mom. Principle)
• To implement 𝜏⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 0, we must choose an appropriate point about which to find 𝜏⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡
• In principle you can use any point, but in this problem it is best to choose a point such that you get an
equation that has either 𝐹𝐿 OR 𝐹𝑅 in it.
• To find 𝐹𝐿 , choose the point R as your pivot point: 𝜏⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡,𝑅𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑆𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡 = 0
𝐿 𝑑 𝑚𝑔
→ 𝜏⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡,𝑅𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑆𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡 = −𝐹𝐿 𝐿 + 𝑀𝑔(𝐿 − 𝑑) + 𝑚𝑔 (2) = 0 → 𝐹𝐿 = 𝑀𝑔 (1 − 𝐿 ) + ( )
2
10𝑚
10𝑚 (0.5𝑚) (10𝑘𝑔)( 2 )
→𝐹𝐿 = (40𝑘𝑔)( ) (1 − (2.0𝑚)) + ( 𝑠
) → 𝐹𝐿 = 350 𝑁
𝑠2 2

• To find 𝐹𝑅 , choose the point L as your pivot point: 𝜏⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡,𝐿𝑒𝑓𝑡 𝑆𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡 = 0

𝐿 𝑀𝑔𝑑 𝑚𝑔
→ 𝜏⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡,𝐿𝑒𝑓𝑡 𝑆𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡 = +𝐹𝑅 𝐿 − 𝑀𝑔𝑑 − 𝑚𝑔 (2) = 0 → 𝐹𝑅 = +( )
𝐿 2
10𝑚 10𝑚
(40𝑘𝑔)( 2 )(0.50𝑚) (10𝑘𝑔)( 2 )
→𝐹𝑅 = 𝑠
+( 𝑠
) → 𝐹𝑅 = 150 𝑁
(2.0𝑚) 2

HOW TO TWEAK:
• Similar Situation: Find the magnitude of ONE of the forces 𝐹1 OR 𝐹2 . Set the pivot point at the force that
you are NOT asked to find. Say, you are asked for𝐹2 , set up pivot point at Support 1. Then use 𝜏⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 0
about that pivot point. You should have one equation and one unknown, 𝐹2 .
• Similar Situation: Find both 𝐹1 and 𝐹2 . Also set up 𝐹⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 0. Solve two equations for two unknowns.
PHYS 172 FINAL EXAM : PRACTICE (Total Points = 400 ) KEY SOLS TWEAK SPRING 2021

Problem 18: [14 points]

The figure below is a potential energy curve for the
interaction of two neutral atoms. The two-atom system
is in a vibrational state indicated by the solid horizontal
line. What is the approximate value of the kinetic
energy, 𝐾 and the potential energy 𝑈 at each of the
locations, 𝑟1 , 𝑟2 and 𝑟3 ?
A. At 𝑟1: 𝐾 = 1.3 𝑒𝑉, 𝑈 = −1.1 𝑒𝑉;
At 𝑟2 : 𝐾 = 1.5 𝑒𝑉, 𝑈 = −1.4 𝑒𝑉;
At 𝑟3 : 𝐾 = 0 𝑒𝑉, 𝑈 = −0.2 𝑒𝑉.
B. At 𝑟1: 𝐾 = 1.1 𝑒𝑉, 𝑈 = −1.3 𝑒𝑉;
At 𝑟2 : 𝐾 = 1.3 𝑒𝑉, 𝑈 = −1.5 𝑒𝑉;
At 𝑟3 : 𝐾 = 0 𝑒𝑉, 𝑈 = −0.2 𝑒𝑉.
C. At 𝑟1: 𝐾 = 1.2 𝑒𝑉, 𝑈 = −1.2 𝑒𝑉;
At 𝑟2 : 𝐾 = 1.4 𝑒𝑉, 𝑈 = −1.4 𝑒𝑉;
At 𝑟3 : 𝐾 = 0 𝑒𝑉, 𝑈 = 0 𝑒𝑉.
D. At 𝑟1: 𝐾 = 1.3 𝑒𝑉, 𝑈 = −1.0 𝑒𝑉;
At 𝑟2 : 𝐾 = 1.2 𝑒𝑉, 𝑈 = −1.3 𝑒𝑉;
At 𝑟3 : 𝐾 = 0 𝑒𝑉, 𝑈 = −0.2 𝑒𝑉.
E. At 𝑟1: 𝐾 = 1.1 𝑒𝑉, 𝑈 = −1.0 𝑒𝑉;
At 𝑟2 : 𝐾 = 1.2 𝑒𝑉, 𝑈 = −1.2 𝑒𝑉;
At 𝑟3 : 𝐾 = 0 𝑒𝑉, 𝑈 = −0.2 𝑒𝑉.
HOW TO SOLVE:
Following steps are used to find 𝑈 and 𝐾 at any value of 𝑟
1. Make sure you know +𝑈 : This is the y-axis value (of negative) energy denoted by the thick horizontal line.
2. To find 𝑈, look at where the vertical line through the point 𝑟 intersects the potential energy curve. The y-axis value
at that point is 𝑈. (Note: U must be negative)
3. To find 𝐾, after finding 𝑈, use (𝐾 + 𝑈) – 𝑈 When you do this, make sure you use the negative signs for both (𝐾 +
𝑈) and 𝑈. When you do the calculation, you should get 𝐾, which MUST be positive.

HOW TO TWEAK:
• Instead of being given numbers, you might be given the values of the horizontal line in terms of constants 𝐴 and 𝐵
etc. Use the same steps as above to find 𝐾 and 𝑈.
• In addition to or instead of finding 𝐾 and 𝑈, you could be asked how 𝐾 and 𝑈 change (i.e. do they increase or
decrease) when 𝑟 changes from say 𝑟1 to 𝑟2 . In general for the diagram shown above, as 𝑟 increases, 𝑈 increase, and
𝐾 decreases.
• You can be asked whether or not the system is bound or unbound. In general, if the horizontal line representing 𝐾 +
𝑈 intersects the potential energy curve, the system is bound. The only way the system can be unbound is if 𝐾 + 𝑈 is
positive i.e. above the horizontal axis.
PHYS 172 FINAL EXAM : PRACTICE (Total Points = 400 ) KEY SOLS TWEAK SPRING 2021

Problem 19: [13 points]

What must be the initial angular speed, 𝝎 of the top disk be
so that when it is dropped onto the bottom disk the final
angular speed of the disks is equal in magnitude to the initial
angular speed of the lower disk 𝜔1 but opposite in direction?
Note: the moment of inertia of a disk of mass 𝑀 and radius 𝑅
about an axis through its center and perpendicular to the disk
1
is 𝐼 = 𝑀𝑅2
2

A) 2𝜔1
𝑀𝑅
B) 2 𝜔1
𝑚𝑟

𝑀𝑅
C) (2 𝑚𝑟 + 1) 𝜔1

𝑀𝑅 2
D) (2 𝑚𝑟 2 + 1) 𝜔1
𝑀𝑅 2
E) (2 𝑚𝑟 2 − 1) 𝜔1
HOW TO SOLVE:
Angular Momentum Principle System = Both Disks Surroundings: Nothing
⃗
⃗
𝜏⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 ∆𝑡 = ∆𝐿𝑠𝑦𝑠 = 0 ⃗
⃗ ⃗⃗𝑠𝑦𝑠,𝑓
→ 𝐿𝑠𝑦𝑠,𝑖 = 𝐿

Finding various terms:

• Initial Angular Mom of System: 𝐿 ⃗⃗𝑠𝑦𝑠,𝑖 = 𝐿
⃗⃗𝑀,𝑖 + 𝐿
⃗⃗𝑚,𝑖 → 𝐼𝑀 𝜔1 𝑧̂ − 𝐼𝑚 𝜔𝑧̂
[Note: Upper disk is moving in direction opposite to initial direction of lower disk]
• Final Angular Mom of System: 𝐿 ⃗⃗𝑠𝑦𝑠,𝑓 = −(𝐼𝑀 + 𝐼𝑚 )𝜔1 𝑧̂
[Note: Final direction of rotation of disks together is opposite to initial direction of lower disk]

Setting Up Angular Mom Principle: → 𝐿 ⃗⃗𝑠𝑦𝑠,𝑖 = 𝐿

⃗⃗𝑠𝑦𝑠,𝑓
→ 𝐼𝑀 𝜔1 𝑧̂ − 𝐼𝑚 𝜔𝑧̂ = −(𝐼𝑀 + 𝐼𝑚 )𝜔1 𝑧̂
→ −𝐼𝑚 𝜔𝑧̂ = −(𝐼𝑀 + 𝐼𝑚 )𝜔1 𝑧̂ − 𝐼𝑀 𝜔1 𝑧̂
(2𝐼 +𝐼 )
→𝜔 = 𝑀𝐼 𝑚 𝜔1
𝑚
𝐼
→ 𝜔 = (1 + 2 𝐼𝑀 ) 𝜔1
𝑚
1 1
Substitute above: 𝐼𝑀 = 2 𝑀𝑅 2 𝐼𝑚 = 2 𝑚𝑟 2

HOW TO TWEAK:
• Instead of being given the final angular speed (of both disks together) and being asked to find the initial
angular velocity of the upper disk, we can be given the angular velocity of the upper disk and asked to
find the final angular speed (of both disks together).
PHYS 172 FINAL EXAM : PRACTICE (Total Points = 400 ) KEY SOLS TWEAK SPRING 2021

Problem 20: [13 points]

A barbell consists of two small balls, each with mass m
at the ends of a very low mass rod of length d. It is
mounted on the end of a low-mass rigid rod of length b.
The apparatus is set in motion in such a way that
although the rod rotates clockwise with angular speed
𝜔, the barbell maintains its vertical orientation.
What is the total angular momentum of the barbell
about point B?
A) 𝐿⃗𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙,𝐵 = −2𝑚𝜔𝑑 2 𝑧̂
𝑑 2
B) 𝐿⃗𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙,𝐵 = −2𝑚𝜔(𝑏 2 + )𝑧̂
4
𝑑 2
C) 𝐿⃗𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙,𝐵 = −2𝑚𝜔(𝑏 2 − )𝑧̂
4
𝑑2
D) 𝐿⃗𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙,𝐵 = −2𝑚𝜔( )𝑧̂
4

E) 𝐿⃗𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙,𝐵 = −2𝑚𝜔𝑏 2 𝑧̂
HOW TO SOLVE:
⃗⃗𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙,𝐵 = 𝐿
Total Angular Momentum: 𝐿 ⃗⃗𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 + 𝐿
⃗⃗𝑟𝑜𝑡

⃗⃗𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 : Consider barbell to be a point mass, 𝑚𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 = 2𝑚 and its motion around point B.
Finding 𝐿
• Magnitude of 𝐿 ⃗⃗𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 : ⃗⃗𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 | = 𝑚𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑣𝐶𝑀 𝑟⊥,𝐶𝑀
|𝐿 But, 𝑣𝐶𝑀 = 𝜔𝑟⊥,𝐶𝑀 = 𝜔𝑏 and 𝑟⊥,𝐶𝑀 = 𝑏
Substituting : |𝐿 ⃗⃗𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 | = 2𝑚(𝜔𝑏)𝑏 = 2𝑚𝜔𝑏 2
• Direction of 𝐿 ⃗⃗𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 : Right Hand Rule → Clockwise: −𝑧̂
Putting this together: 𝐿 ⃗⃗𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 = −2𝑚𝜔𝑏 2 𝑧̂

Finding 𝐿 ⃗⃗𝑟𝑜𝑡 : Consider rotational motion of barbell around its center of mass
• In this case (only) you find that the barbell does NOT rotate about its center of mass. The evidence for
this is that it is always vertical in its ORIENTATION DOES NOT CHANGE.
• So: 𝐿 ⃗⃗𝑟𝑜𝑡 = 0
⃗⃗𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙,𝐵 = 𝐿
So: 𝐿 ⃗⃗𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 + 𝐿
⃗⃗𝑟𝑜𝑡 = −2𝑚𝜔𝑏 2 𝑧̂ + 0 → 𝐿 ⃗⃗𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙,𝐵 = −2𝑚𝜔𝑏 2 𝑧̂

HOW TO TWEAK:
Barbell could be spinning at some angular velocity, say −𝜔2 𝑧̂ (clockwise)

• ⃗⃗𝑟𝑜𝑡 = −𝐼𝐶𝑀 𝜔2 𝑧̂ ,
So: 𝐿 where 𝐼𝐶𝑀 is the moment of inertia of the barbell about center of mass.
𝑑 𝑑 2
• Barbell consists of two point masses, each 𝑚 at distance 2
from CM. 𝐼𝐶𝑀 = 2𝑚 ( 2 )
2
• ⃗⃗𝑟𝑜𝑡 = −2𝑚 (𝑑) 𝜔2 𝑧̂
Substituting back: 𝐿 2
PHYS 172 FINAL EXAM : PRACTICE (Total Points = 400 ) KEY SOLS TWEAK SPRING 2021

Problem 21: [14 points]

A block of mass 𝒎 starts from rest

and slides down a frictionless semi-
circular track from a height 𝒉 as
shown below. When it reaches the
lowest point of the track, it collides
with a stationary piece of putty also
having mass 𝟐𝒎. The block and the
putty stick together and continue to slide.

What is the maximum height that the block-putty system could reach?

A) ℎ/9
B) ℎ/4
C) ℎ/2
D) ℎ
E) independent of ℎ

HOW TO SOLVE:
Step 1: Find speed of block just before it strikes putty: Use Energy Principle
∆𝐸𝑠𝑦𝑠 = 𝑊𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑟 : System : Block, Earth Surroundings: Track 𝑊𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑐𝑘 = 0 b/c force due to track is normal
1
∆𝐾 + ∆𝑈 = 0 → (𝐾𝑓 − 𝐾𝑖 ) + (𝑈𝑓 − 𝑈𝑖 ) = 0 → (2 𝑚𝑣 2 − 0) + (0 − 𝑚𝑔ℎ) = 0 → 𝑣 = √2𝑔ℎ

Step 2: Find speed of Block + Putty after collision: Use Momentum Principle.
𝑑𝑝⃗𝑠𝑦𝑠 𝑑𝑝⃗𝑠𝑦𝑠
Momentum Principle: 𝐹⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 𝑑𝑡 → 0 = 𝑑𝑡 → 𝑝⃗𝑠𝑦𝑠,𝑖 = 𝑝⃗𝑠𝑦𝑠,𝑓
1
𝑚1 𝑣⃗1,𝑖 + 𝑚2 𝑣⃗2,𝑖 = (𝑚1 + 𝑚2 )𝑣⃗𝑓 → 𝑚√2𝑔ℎ + 𝑚(0) = (𝑚 + 2𝑚)𝑣𝑓 → 𝑣𝑓 = 3 √2𝑔ℎ

Step 3: Find height of Block + Putty system: Use Energy Principle.

∆𝐸𝑠𝑦𝑠 = 𝑊𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑟 : System : Block + Putty, Earth Surroundings: Track 𝑊𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑐𝑘 = 0
1
∆𝐾 + ∆𝑈 = 0 → (𝐾𝑓 − 𝐾𝑖 ) + (𝑈𝑓 − 𝑈𝑖 ) = 0 → (0 − 2 (3𝑚)𝑣𝑓2 ) + (0 − (3𝑚)𝑔ℎ𝑓 ) = 0
1 1 2𝑔ℎ ℎ
Substituting 𝑣𝑓 = √2𝑔ℎ we get : (3𝑚) = (3𝑚)𝑔ℎ𝑓 → ℎ𝑓 =
3 2 9 9

DO NOT use: Energy conservation b/w initial and final states in Step 2, as some of the initial KE is lost during
collision and converted tin internal energy.

HOW TO TWEAK:
• Imagine final height was given and initial height asked for.
• Imagine masses were changed.
PHYS 172 FINAL EXAM : PRACTICE (Total Points = 400 ) KEY SOLS TWEAK SPRING 2021

Problem 22: [13 points]

As shown in the diagram, a ball of mass
6 kg is suspended from a wire, with a
compressed spring pushing it away
from the wall. Then angle θ is 55
degrees. What is the magnitude of the
force exerted on the block by the
spring?

A) 59 N

B) 34 N

C) 84 N

D) 28 N

E) 41 N

HOW TO SOLVE:
𝑑𝑝⃗𝑠𝑦𝑠
Momentum Principle: 𝐹⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 𝑑𝑡 → 𝐹⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 0
Steps:
1) Draw Free Body Diagram.
2) Identify Forces: 𝑚𝑔(down), 𝐹𝑠𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑔 (points left), 𝐹𝑇 (Along wire, away from block)
3) Find components of 𝐹𝑇 . :
x-component: 𝐹𝑇𝑥 = 𝐹𝑇 cos 𝜃.
y-component: 𝐹𝑇𝑦 = 𝐹𝑇 sin 𝜃
4) Set Net Force = 0
x-component: 𝐹𝑇 cos 𝜃 − 𝐹𝑠𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑔 = 0
y-component: 𝐹𝑇 sin 𝜃 − 𝑚𝑔 = 0
5) Use y-component equation to find 𝐹𝑇 . Substitute into x-component equation to find 𝐹𝑠𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑔
𝑚𝑔
𝐹𝑇 sin 𝜃 − 𝑚𝑔 = 0 → 𝐹𝑇 = sin 𝜃 Also : 𝐹𝑇 cos 𝜃 − 𝐹𝑠𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑔 = 0 → 𝐹𝑠𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑔 = 𝐹𝑇 cos 𝜃
10𝑚
𝑚𝑔 𝑚𝑔 (6𝑘𝑔)( 2 )
→𝐹𝑠𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑔 = sin 𝜃 cos 𝜃 → 𝐹𝑠𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑔 = tan 𝜃 → 𝐹𝑠𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑔 = 𝑠
→ 𝐹𝑠𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑔 = 42𝑁
tan 55°

HOW TO TWEAK:
• Some other situation with springs, strings, and hanging objects.
PHYS 172 FINAL EXAM : PRACTICE (Total Points = 400 ) KEY SOLS TWEAK SPRING 2021

Problem 23: [14 points]

The speed (<< speed of light) of a particle of mass m

increases at a constant rate as it moves along the path
shown from location 1 to location 2 and so on.

At which particle location or locations is the magnitude of

the transverse component of the rate of change of its
𝑑𝑝⃗
momentum, |( ) |the greatest?
𝑑𝑡 ⊥
A) 1
B) 2
C) 3
D) 4
E) 3 and 4

𝑑𝑝⃗ 𝑣2
HOW TO SOLVE: |( 𝑑𝑡 ) | = 𝑚
⊥ 𝑅
𝑣2
For 𝑅 to be greatest, we must look for points with highest 𝑣 and smallest 𝑅
Clearly, 𝑅 is smallest at locations 3 and 4 (both equal)
We are told that the speed, 𝑣 increases at a constant rate i.e. It is smallest at 1 and largest at 4.
𝑑𝑝⃗ 𝑣2
So, from these two facts, |( 𝑑𝑡 ) | = 𝑚 will be greatest at 4.
⊥ 𝑅
𝑣2
For 𝑅 to be smallest, we must look for points with lowest 𝑣 and greatest 𝑅
Clearly, 𝑅 is greatest at location 2 (because at point 2 it moves in a straight line and radius of a straight line is
𝑑𝑝⃗ 𝑣2
infinity). So, |( ) | = 𝑚 will be smallest at 2.
𝑑𝑡 ⊥ 𝑅

HOW TO TWEAK:
𝑑𝑝⃗ 𝑑𝑝⃗
• Instead of magnitude of ( 𝑑𝑡 ) , you can be asked for direction of ( 𝑑𝑡 )
⊥ ⊥
𝑑𝑝⃗
• Keep in mind that direction of ( 𝑑𝑡 ) is always TOWARD THE CENTER.
⊥
PHYS 172 FINAL EXAM : PRACTICE (Total Points = 400 ) KEY SOLS TWEAK SPRING 2021

Problem 24: [13 points]

An automobile (and its occupants) of total mass 𝑀 = 2000 𝑘𝑔, is moving through a curved
dip in the road of radius 𝑅 = 20 𝑚 at a constant speed 𝑣 = 20 𝑚/𝑠. For this analysis, you
can neglect air resistance. Consider the automobile (and its occupants) as the system of
interest. Use 𝑔 = 10 𝑚/𝑠 2 .
Calculate the magnitude of the normal force exerted by the road on the system (car and its
occupants).
A) 20,000 N
B) 40,000 N
C) 60,000 N
D) 30,000 N
E) 50,000 N

HOW TO SOLVE:
𝑑𝑝⃗𝑠𝑦𝑠 𝑣 2
Momentum Principle: 𝐹⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 𝑑𝑡 → 𝐹⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 𝑚 𝑅
Steps:
1) Draw Free Body Diagram.
2) Identify Forces: 𝑚𝑔(down), 𝐹𝑁 (Normal force up)
𝑣2
3) Set Net Force 𝐹⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 𝑚 𝑅
𝑣2
y-component: 𝐹𝑁 − 𝑚𝑔 = 𝑚 𝑅
𝑣2
4) Use y-component equation to find 𝐹𝑇 → 𝐹𝑇 = 𝑚 + 𝑚𝑔
𝑅

HOW TO TWEAK:
• Instead of Normal Force, you might have Tension holding up a pendulum that is swinging along a circular
arc. For example, see Tarzan problem.
• Swinging Baby problem (Recitation 05 Problem 2)
• Tarzan on Vine problem (Lecture 09)
• Bucket of Water problem (Lecture 09)
𝑣2
o In all three above, the tension in the string takes the same place as normal force in this problem, 𝑚 𝑅
acts toward the center of the circle, which is upward.
• Passenger in Plane problem (Lecture 09)
• Force applied by seat is the normal force and because airplane is at the top of the arc, mv2/R acts toward
the center of the circle, which is downward.
PHYS 172 FINAL EXAM : PRACTICE (Total Points = 400 ) KEY SOLS TWEAK SPRING 2021

Problem 25-26:
Your friend, mass 𝑴 jumps up from a crouched position to a vertical standing position,
such that their center of mass moves vertically upward through height 𝒉. During this
process, the point of contact between your friend’s feet and the ground is stationary.
Your friend experiences a normal force 𝑭𝑵 acting upward at the point of contact between
the feet and the ground. Your friend’s change in internal energy in the process is ∆𝑬𝒊𝒏𝒕
and their change in kinetic energy due to their torso moving relative to the center of mass
is ∆𝑲𝒓𝒆𝒍

Problem 25: [13 points]

Which of the following equations represents the energy principle of the point particle system as applied to your friend
from the initial to the final positions shown above?
A) ∆𝐾𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 = 𝐹𝑁 ℎ
B) ∆𝐾𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 + ∆𝐸𝑖𝑛𝑡 + ∆𝐾𝑟𝑒𝑙 = −𝑀𝑔ℎ
C) ∆𝐾𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 = (𝐹𝑁 − 𝑀𝑔)ℎ
D) ∆𝐾𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 + ∆𝐸𝑖𝑛𝑡 + ∆𝐾𝑟𝑒𝑙 = (𝐹𝑁 − 𝑀𝑔)ℎ
E) None of the above
HOW TO SOLVE:
System: Person Surroundings: Earth
EP Point Particle System: ∆𝐾𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 = 𝐹⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 ∙ ∆𝑟⃗𝐶𝑀
In this case: 𝐹⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 𝐹⃗𝑁 + 𝐹⃗𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑣 = 〈0, 𝐹𝑁 , 0〉 + 〈0, −𝑀𝑔, 0〉 = 〈0, (𝐹𝑁 − 𝑀𝑔), 0〉 and ∆𝑟⃗𝐶𝑀 = 〈0, ℎ, 0〉
So: EP of Point Particle system becomes: ∆𝐾𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 = 〈0, (𝐹𝑁 − 𝑀𝑔), 0〉 ∙ 〈0, ℎ, 0〉 →∆𝐾𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 = (𝐹𝑁 − 𝑀𝑔)ℎ

Problem 26: [13 points]

Which of the following equations represents the energy principle of the extended system as applied to your friend from
the initial to the final positions shown above?
A) ∆𝐾𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 = 𝐹𝑁 ℎ
B) ∆𝐾𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 + ∆𝐸𝑖𝑛𝑡 + ∆𝐾𝑟𝑒𝑙 = −𝑀𝑔ℎ
C) ∆𝐾𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 = (𝐹𝑁 − 𝑀𝑔)ℎ
D) ∆𝐾𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 + ∆𝐸𝑖𝑛𝑡 + ∆𝐾𝑟𝑒𝑙 = (𝐹𝑁 − 𝑀𝑔)ℎ
E) None of the above
HOW TO SOLVE:
System: Person Surroundings: Earth
EP Extended System: ∆𝐾𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 + ∆𝐾𝑟𝑒𝑙 + ∆𝐸𝑖𝑛𝑡 = ∑𝑁 ⃗
𝑖=1(𝐹𝑖 ∙ ∆𝑟⃗𝑖 )
Right hand Side has two forces:
∑𝑁 ⃗ ⃗ ⃗ ⃗
𝑖=1(𝐹𝑖 ∙ ∆𝑟⃗𝑖 ) = 𝐹𝑁 ∙ ∆𝑟⃗𝑁 + 𝐹𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑣 ∙ ∆𝑟⃗𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑣 = 𝐹𝑁 ∙ 〈0,0,0〉 + 〈0, −𝑀𝑔, 0〉 ∙ 〈0, ℎ, 0〉 = −𝑀𝑔ℎ
This is because..
(i) Point of application of normal force does not move, so ∆𝑟⃗𝑁 = 〈0,0,0〉
(ii)Point of application of the gravitational force acts through CM, so ∆𝑟⃗𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑣 = ∆𝑟⃗𝐶𝑀 = 〈0, ℎ, 0〉
So, substituting back : ∆𝐾𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 + ∆𝐾𝑟𝑒𝑙 + ∆𝐸𝑖𝑛𝑡 = −𝑀𝑔ℎ

HOW TO TWEAK:
• What is the object were pushing off horizontally, instead of vertically. (See example in lecture of skater pushing off
the wall)
• Same idea, but we will NOT have force of gravity acting.
PHYS 172 FINAL EXAM : PRACTICE (Total Points = 400 ) KEY SOLS TWEAK SPRING 2021

Problem 27-28:
You, mass 𝑴 hang by your hands from a tree limb that is a
height 𝑳 above the ground, with your center of mass a
height 𝒉 above the ground, and your feet a height 𝒅 above
the ground. You then let yourself fall. You absorb the shock
by bending your knees, ending up momentarily at rest in a
crouched position with your center of mass a height 𝒃 above
the ground.
Problem 27: [13 points]
What is your kinetic energy at the instant your feet first touch the ground?
A) 𝑀𝑔ℎ
B) 𝑀𝑔(ℎ − 𝑑)
C) 𝑀𝑔𝑑
D) 𝑀𝑔(ℎ − 𝑑 − 𝑏)
E) 𝑀𝑔(ℎ − 𝑏)
HOW TO SOLVE: Point Particle System from initial state (hanging) to intermediate state (just before it hits ground) [not
shown in fig.]
∆𝐾𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 = 𝐹⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 ∙ ∆𝑟⃗𝑐𝑚
Here : ∆𝐾𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 = 𝐾𝑓 − 𝐾𝑖 = 𝐾𝑓 − 0 = 𝐾𝑓 (b/c initially at rest)
𝐹⃗𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 〈0, −𝑀𝑔, 0〉 ∆𝑟⃗𝑐𝑚 = 𝑟⃗𝑓 − 𝑟⃗𝑖 = 〈0, ℎ − 𝑑, 0〉 − 〈0, ℎ, 0〉 = 〈0, −𝑑, 0〉
[Note: 𝑟⃗𝑓 = 〈0, ℎ − 𝑑, 0〉 b/c when his feet hit the ground, his CM has moved distance 𝑑 downward from its initial
height ℎ, so final height of CM = ℎ − 𝑑]
Plugging into Point Particle equation: 𝐾𝑓 = 〈0, −𝑀𝑔, 0〉 ∙ 〈0, −𝑑, 0〉 = 𝑀𝑔𝑑
HOW TO TWEAK: Instead of a person it could be some other object dropping that gets squished when it hits the
ground. The way you find the KE just before it hits the ground will be identical. Basically, it is based on how far the CM
of the object has fallen.

Problem 28: [13 points]

What is the change in internal energy in your body from the initial to final position?
A) 𝑀𝑔(ℎ − 𝑏)
B) −𝑀𝑔(ℎ − 𝑏)
C) −𝑀𝑔(ℎ − 𝑑 − 𝑏)
D) 𝑀𝑔(ℎ − 𝑑 − 𝑏)
E) 𝑀𝑔(ℎ − 𝑑)
HOW TO SOLVE: Extended System from initial state (hanging) and final state (crouched position) [shown in fig.]
∆𝐾𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 + ∆𝐾𝑟𝑜𝑡 + ∆𝐸𝑖𝑛𝑡 = (𝐹⃗1 ∙ ∆𝑟⃗1 ) + (𝐹⃗2 ∙ ∆𝑟⃗2 ) + ⋯
Here : ∆𝐾𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 = 𝐾𝑓 − 𝐾𝑖 = 0 − 0 = 0 (b/c initially at rest which hanging, finally also at rest after crouching)
∆𝐾𝑟𝑜𝑡 = 0
𝐹⃗1 = 〈0, −𝑀𝑔, 0〉 ∆𝑟⃗𝑐𝑚 = 𝑟⃗𝑓 − 𝑟⃗𝑖 = 〈0, 𝑏, 0〉 − 〈0, ℎ, 0〉 = 〈0, 𝑏 − ℎ, 0〉
⃗
𝐹1 = 〈0, 𝐹𝑓𝑒𝑒𝑡 , 0〉 ∆𝑟⃗2 = 〈0,0,0〉 [Feet experience force from ground, but do not move]
Plugging into Extended System equation0+0 + ∆𝐸𝑖𝑛𝑡 = −𝑀𝑔(𝑏 − ℎ) + 0 → ∆𝐸𝑖𝑛𝑡 = 𝑀𝑔(ℎ − 𝑏)
HOW TO TWEAK: Instead of a person dropping it could be some other object dropping that gets squished when it hits
the ground. The way you find the ∆𝐸𝑖𝑛𝑡 is just as we did above.
Very Important to keep in mind here is that NOT to use ∆𝐾𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 from Prob. 27 in Prob. 28. This is because the final
states for Prob. 27 and Prob. 28 are different. In Prob. 27, final state is just before it hits ground. In Prob. 28 final state
is when it has come to rest on the ground.
PHYS 172 FINAL EXAM : PRACTICE (Total Points = 400 ) KEY SOLS TWEAK SPRING 2021

Problems 29: [14 points]

Two small objects each of mass m are connected by a massless rod
of length L. At a particular instant they have the velocities shown
in the accompanying diagram. We are looking down on the
system which is sliding on an icy surface, the x-y plane.
What are the rotational angular momentum of the system and
the translational angular momentum about point A of the
system?
𝑚𝐿
A) 𝐿⃗⃗𝑟𝑜𝑡 = 〈 2 (𝑣2 + 𝑣1 ), 0, 0〉,
B) 𝐿⃗⃗𝑟𝑜𝑡 = 〈0, 0, 𝑚ℎ(𝑣2 + 𝑣1 )〉
𝑚𝐿
C) 𝐿⃗⃗𝑟𝑜𝑡 = 〈0, 0, 2 (𝑣2 + 𝑣1 )〉
𝑚𝐿
D) 𝐿⃗⃗𝑟𝑜𝑡 = 〈0, 0, (𝑣2 − 𝑣1 )〉 ,
2
E) 𝐿⃗⃗𝑟𝑜𝑡 = 〈0, 0, 𝑚𝐿(𝑣2 − 𝑣1 )〉,
𝐿⃗⃗𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠,𝐴 = 〈0, 0, 𝑚ℎ(𝑣2 + 𝑣1 )〉
HOW TO SOLVE:
Finding 𝐿⃗⃗𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠,𝐴 : Collapse the barbell into a point mass at its Center of Mass (𝐶𝑀)
|𝐿⃗⃗𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 | = 𝑀𝑡𝑜𝑡 |𝑉
⃗⃗𝑐𝑚 |𝑟⊥𝐶𝑀
Direction is clockwise: −𝑧̂ (Right Hand Rule)
→ 𝐿⃗⃗𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 = −𝑀𝑡𝑜𝑡 |𝑉 ⃗⃗𝑐𝑚 |𝑟⊥𝐶𝑀 𝑧̂
𝑣 +𝑣 𝐿
→ 𝐿⃗⃗𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 = −(2𝑚) ( 1 2 ) (ℎ + ) 𝑧̂
2 2
𝐿
→ 𝐿⃗⃗𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠 = −𝑚(𝑣1 + 𝑣2 ) (ℎ + 2) 𝑧̂
Finding 𝐿⃗⃗𝑟𝑜𝑡 : Ignore point A. Focus on motion around Center of Mass (𝐶𝑀)
𝐿⃗⃗𝑟𝑜𝑡 = 𝐿⃗⃗𝑟𝑜𝑡,1 + 𝐿⃗⃗𝑟𝑜𝑡,2
Now finding each separately:
𝐿
Magnitude |𝐿⃗⃗𝑟𝑜𝑡,1 | = 𝑚𝑣1 𝑟⊥1 = 𝑚𝑣1
2
Direction of 𝐿⃗⃗𝑟𝑜𝑡,1 by right hand rule : clockwise −𝑧̂
𝐿
So: 𝐿⃗⃗𝑟𝑜𝑡,1 = − 𝑚𝑣1 𝑧̂
2
𝐿
Magnitude |𝐿⃗⃗𝑟𝑜𝑡,2 | = 𝑚𝑣2 𝑟⊥2 = 𝑚𝑣2 2
Direction of 𝐿⃗⃗𝑟𝑜𝑡,2 by right hand rule : counterclockwise +𝑧̂
𝐿
So: 𝐿⃗⃗𝑟𝑜𝑡,2 = + 𝑚𝑣2 𝑧̂
2
𝐿 𝐿 𝐿
→𝐿⃗⃗𝑟𝑜𝑡 = 𝐿⃗⃗𝑟𝑜𝑡,1 + 𝐿⃗⃗𝑟𝑜𝑡,2 →𝐿⃗⃗𝑟𝑜𝑡 = − 𝑚𝑣1 2 𝑧̂ + 𝑚𝑣2 2 𝑧̂ → 𝐿⃗⃗𝑟𝑜𝑡 = 𝑚(𝑣2 − 𝑣1 ) 2 𝑧̂

HOW TO TWEAK:
The main type of tweak is changing the direction (positive or negative x) and magnitude of the velocities of the objects.
𝑚 𝑟 +𝑚 𝑟
The two masses may be made unequal: If we do this, then we need to find 𝑟𝐶𝑀 = 1𝑚1 +𝑚2 2
1 2
PHYS 172 FINAL EXAM : PRACTICE (Total Points = 400 ) KEY SOLS TWEAK SPRING 2021

Problems 30: [14 points]

Consider the system shown.
The pulley is a disk of radius 𝑹 and
mass 𝑴. The incline plane is
frictionless and the rope does not slip
over the pulley.

Which set of equations from among

equations 1-9 shown below will you
need to solve to determine the
tensions in each section of the rope, 𝑻𝟏 and 𝑻𝟐 and the linear acceleration, 𝒂 of each block.

1. 𝑇1 − 𝑚1 𝑔 sin 𝜃 = 𝑚1 𝑎
2. 𝑇1 − 𝑚1 𝑔 = 𝑚1 𝑎
3. 𝑇1 − 𝑚1 𝑔 cos 𝜃 = 𝑚1 𝑎

4. −𝑇2 + 𝑇1 = 𝑀𝑎
𝑎
5. −𝑇2 𝑅 + 𝑇1 𝑅 = 𝑀
𝑅
1 𝑎
6. −𝑇2 𝑅 + 𝑇1 𝑅 = − ( 𝑀𝑅2 )
2 𝑅

7. 𝑇2 − 𝑚2 𝑔 = −𝑚2 𝑎
8. 𝑇2 + 𝑚2 𝑔 = 𝑚2 𝑎
9. 𝑇2 = 𝑚2 𝑎

A) 1, 4, 7
B) 2, 5, 8
C) 3, 6, 9
D) 1, 6, 7
E) None of the above

HOW TO SOLVE:
See complete solution (“Atwood on Incline”) in Lecture 24.

HOW TO TWEAK:
• See complete solution (“Atwood”) in Lecture 24.
• Keep in mind that the masses need not be 𝑚 and 2𝑚 on either side of the pulley. Rather, more generally,
they can be 𝑚1 and 𝑚2 . Similar to the problem above, you are asked to find equations that relate
acceleration, 𝑎 and tensions 𝑇1 and 𝑇2