CM PDF

Qualification Exam: Classical Mechanics
Name: , QEID#13174623:
October, 2019
Qualification Exam QEID#13174623 2
1 Undergraduate level
Problem 1. 1983-Fall-CM-U-1. ID:CM-U-2
1. Consider a particle of mass m moving in a plane under the influence of a spher-
ically symmetric potential V(r).
i) Write down the Lagrangian in plane polar coordinates r, θ.

ii) Write down Lagrange’s equations in these coordinates.
iii) What are the constants of the motion (conserved quantities).
R
iv) Derive an equation for the orbit θ(r), in the form θ(r) = f (r)dr. The
function f(r) will involve V(r).
2. Consider a particle of mass m moving in a plane in the potential V (r, ṙ) =

e2
r
(1 + ṙ2 /c2 ), where c and e are constants. Obtain the Hamiltonian. Your
answer should be in terms of the polar coordinates r and θ and their conjugate
momenta Pr and Pθ .

Take K = 4k and m1 = m2 = M . At t = 0 both masses are at their equilibrium
positions, m1 has a velocity v~0 to the right, and m2 isqat rest. Determine the distance,
x1 , of m1 from its equilibrium position at time t = π4 Mk . Hint: First find the normal
modes and the normal mode frequencies, then put in the initial conditions.

A hollow thin walled cylinder of radius r and mass M is constrained to roll without
slipping inside a cylindrical surface with radius R + r (see diagram). The point B
coincides with the point A when the cylinder has its minimum potential energy.
1. What is the frequency of small oscillations around the equilibrium position?
2. What would the frequency of small oscillations be if the contact between the
surfaces is frictionless?
Classical Mechanics QEID#13174623 October, 2019

Problem 4. 1983-Spring-CM-U-1. ID:CM-U-33

A ball, mass m, hangs by a massless string from the ceiling of a car in a passenger
train. At time t the train has velocity ~v and acceleration ~a in the same direction.
What is the angle that the string makes with the vertical? Make a sketch which
clearly indicates the relative direction of deflection.

A ball is thrown vertically upward from the ground with velocity v~0 . Assume air re-
sistance exerts a force proportional to the velocity. Write down a differential equation
for the position. Rewrite this equation in terms of the velocity and solve for ~v (t).
Does your solution give the correct result for t → ∞? What is the physical meaning
of this asymptotic value? Would you expect the time during which the ball rises to
be longer or shorter than the time during which it falls back to the ground?

Two metal balls have the same mass m and radius R, however one has a hollow in the
center (they are made of different materials). If they are released simultaneously at the
top of an inclined plane, which (if either) will reach the bottom of the inclined plane
first? You must explain your answer with quantitative equations. What happens if
the inclinced plane is frictionless?

Sand drops vertically from a stationary hopper at a constant rate of 100 gram per
second onto a horizontal conveyor belt moving at a constant velocity, ~v , of 10 cm/sec.
1. What force (magnitude and direction relative to the velocity) is required to keep
the belt moving at a constant speed of 10 cm/sec?
2. How much work is done by this force in 1.0 second?
3. What is the change in kinetic energy of the conveyor belt in 1.0 second due to
the additional sand on it?
4. Should the answers to parts 2. and 3. be the same? Explain.


A B
Two forces F and F have the following components
 A  B
 Fx = 6abyz 3 − 20bx3 y 2  Fx = 18abyz 3 − 20bx3 y 2
FA : F A = 6abxz 3 − 10bx4 y , FB : FyB = 18abxz 3 − 10bx4 y
 yA
Fz = 18abxyz 2 FzB = 6abxyz 2

Which one of these is a conservative force? Prove your answer. For the conservative
force determine the potential energy function V (x, y, z). Assume V (0, 0, 0) = 0.

1. What is canonical transformation?
2. For what value(s) of α and β do the equations
Q = q α cos(βp), P = q α sin(βp)
represent a canonical transformation? Assume that α and β are constants.

1. A small ball of mass m is dropped immediately behind a large one of mass M
from a height h mach larger then the size of the balls. What is the relationship
between m and M if the large ball stops at the floor? Under this condition, how
high does the small ball rise? Assume the balls are perfectly elastic and use an
independent collision model in which the large ball collides elastically with the
floor and returns to strike the small ball in a second collision that is elastic and
independent from the first.
2. It is possible to construct a stack of books leaning over the edge of a desk as

shown. If the stack is not to tip over, what is the condition on the center of
mass of all the books above any given book? Consider identical books of width
W . For a single book, the maximum overhang (distance extending over the
edge of the desk) is obviously W/2. What is the maximum overhang, L, for a
stack of 2 books? 3 books? 4 books? By extrapolation write a general formula
for L for N books.


A particle of mass m moves subject to a central force whose potential is V (r) = Kr3 ,
K > 0.
1. For what kinetic energy and angular momentum will the orbit be a circle of
radius a about the origin?
2. What is the period T of this circular motion?
3. If the motion is slightly disturbed from this circular orbit, what will be the
period τ of small radial oscillations about r = a? Express τ through T .

1. Find a kinetic energy T is 2-dimensions using polar coordinates (r, θ), starting
with T = m2 (ẋ2 + ẏ 2 ).
2. For the rest of this problem, let the potential energy V (r, θ, t) = rA2 f (θ−
ωt), where A and ω are constants. Write down the Lagrangian L, then
determine the conjugate momenta pr and pθ .
3. Find the Hamiltonian H(θ, pθ , r, pr , t). Does H represent the total energy, T +V ?
4. Is energy, angular momentum or linear momentum a constant of the motion?
Give a reason in each case.
5. Now use r and α = θ − ωt as variables. Find pr and pα , and H(α, pα , r, pr , t).
6. Does H 0 = H? Does H 0 represent the total energy? What constants of motion
can you identify?

A straight rod of length b and weight W is composed of two pieces of equal length
and cross section joined end-to-end. The densities of the two pieces are 9 and 1. The
rod is placed in a smooth, fixed hemispherical bowl of radius R. (b < 2R).
1. Find expression for the fixed angle β between the rod and the radius shown in
Fig.1
2. Find the position of the center of mass when the rod is horizontal with its denser
side on the left (Fig. 1). Give your answer as a distance from the left end.
3. Show that the angle θ which the rod makes with the horizontal when it is in
equilibrium (Fig. 2) satisfies
2 1
tan θ = q
5
(2R/b)2 − 1
Note the fundamental principles you employ in this proof.

4. Show that the equilibrium is stable under small displacements.

Three particles of the same mass m1 = m2 = m3 = m are constrained to move in
a common circular path. They are connected by three identical springs of stiffness
k1 = k2 = k3 = k, as shown. Find the normal frequencies and normal modes of the
system.

Consider a mass m moving without friction inside a vertical, frictionless hoop of radius
R. What must the speed V0 of a mass be at a bottom of a hoop, so that it will slide
along the hoop until it reaches the point 60◦ away from the top of the hoop and then
falls away?

Two cylinders having radii R1 and R2 < R1 and rotational inertias I1 and I2 respec-
tively, are supported by fixed axes perpendicular to the plane of the figure. The large
cylinder is initially rotating with angular velocity ω0 . The small cylinder is moved
until it touches the large cylinder and is caused to rotate by the frictional force be-
tween the two. Eventually, slipping ceases, and the two cylinders rotate at constant
rates in opposite directions. Find the final angular velocity ω2 of the small cylinder
in terms of I1 , I2 , R1 , R2 , and ω0 .

A damped one-dimensional linear oscillator is subjected to a periodic driving force
described by a function F (t). The equation of motion of the oscillator is given by
mẍ + bẋ + kx = F (t),

where F (t) is given by

F (t) = F0 (1 + sin(ωt)) .
The driving force frequency is ω = ω0 and the damping by b/2m = ω0 , where ω02 =
k/m. At t = 0 the mass is at rest at the equilibrium position, so that the initial
conditions are given by x(0) = 0, and ẋ(0) = 0. Find the solution x(t) for the
position of the oscillator vs. time.

A mass m hangs vertically with the force of gravity on it. It is supported in equilibrium
by two different springs of spring constants k1 and k2 respectively. The springs are
to be considered ideal and massless.
Using your own notations (clearly defined) for any coordinates and other physical
quantities you need develop in logical steps an expression for the net force on the
mass if it is displaced vertically downward a distance y from its equilibrium position.
(Clarity and explicit expression of your physical reasoning will be important in the
evaluation of your solution to this problem. Your final result should include y, k1 , k2 ,
and any other defined notations you need.)

A “physical pendulum” is constructed by hanging a thin uniform rod of length l and
mass m from the ceiling as shown in the figure. The hinge at ceiling is frictionless and
constrains the rod to swing in a plane. The angle θ is measured from the vertical.
1. Find the Lagrangian for the system.
2. Use Euler-Lagrange differential equation(s) to find the equation(s) of motion

for the system. (BUT DON’T SOLVE).
3. Find the approximate solution of the Euler-Lagrange differential equation(s) for

the case in which the maximum value of θ is small.
4. Find the Hamiltonian H(p, q) for the system.
5. Use the canonical equations of Hamilton to find the equations of motion for the
system and solve for the case of small maximum angle θ. Compare your results
with b. and c.


Two masses m1 = m2 = m are in equilibrium at the positions shown. They are
connected together by three springs, two with spring constants k, and one with spring
constant K. The masses move across a horizontal surface without friction.
1. Disconnect the center spring from the left mass. Isolate the left mass, draw
the force vectors on the mass, and use the Newton’s Law to get the differential
equation of motion. Solve the equation and find the angular frequency ω0 for
the vibration.
2. With all the springs connected write down the equations of motion for the two
masses in terms of x1 and x2 , again using the Newton’s Law.
3. Find the normal modes of the vibration and calculate their associated eigenfre-
quencies.

A block of mass m slides on a frictionless table with velocity v. At x = 0, it encounters
a frictionless ramp of mass m/2 which is sitting at rest on the frictionless table. The
block slides up the ramp, reaches maximum height, and slides back down.
1. What is the velocity of the block when it reaches its maximum height?
2. How high above the frictionless table does the block rise?
3. What are the final velocities of the block and the ramp?

Problem 22. 1987-Fall-CM-U-2.jpg ID:CM-U-233

A massless rope winds around a cylinder of mass M and radius R, over a pulley, and
then wraps around a solid sphere of mass M and radius R. The pulley is a hoop, also
of mass M and radius R, and is free to turn about a frictionless bearing located at
its center. The rope does not slip on the pulley. Find the linear accelerations a1 and
a2 of the centers of the sphere and cylinder respectively, and the angular acceleration
α of the pulley. The positive directions for a1 , a2 , and α are shown in the figure.

A rigid body has three different principal moments of inertia I1 > I2 > I3 . Show
that rotations about the 1 and 3 axes are stable, while rotation about the 2 axis is
unstable. Define what you mean by stability.


A bucket of mass M is being drawn up a well by a rope which exerts a steady force
P on the bucket. Initially the bucket is at rest and contains a total mass m of water,
but this leaks out at a constant rate, so that after a time T , before the bucket reaches
the top, the bucket is empty. Find the velocity of the bucket just at the instant it
becomes empty.
Express your answer in terms of P , M , m, T , and g, the acceleration due to
gravity.

A string of beads, which are tied together and have a total length L, is suspended in
a frictionless tube as shown in the figure. Consider the beads to have a mass per unit
length µ. The tube is supported so that it will will not move. Initially the beads are
held with the bottom most bead at the bottom of the vertical section of the tube, as
shown in the figure. The beads are then released at time t = 0.
Find the horizontal force exerted against the tube by the beads after they have
fallen a vertical distance x.
(Assume that L is much larger compared to the radius of the curvature of the
tube.)


Two equal masses m are connected by a string of force constant k. They are restricted
to motion in the x̂ direction.
1. Find the normal mode frequencies.
2. A leftward impulse P is suddenly given to the particle on the right. How long
does it take for the spring to reach maximum compression?
3. How far does the mass on the left travel before the spring reaches maximum
compression?

A ball is on a frictionless table. A string is connected to the ball as shown in the
figure. The ball is started in a circle of radius R with angular velocity v0 . The force
exerted on a string is then increases so that the distance between the hole and the
ball decreases according to
r(t) = R − a1 t2
where a1 is a constant. Assuming the string stays straight and that it only exerts a
force parallel to its length.
1. Find the velocity of the ball as a function of time.
2. What must a1 be for the assumption about the force to be valid?


A stream of incompressible and non-viscous fluid of density ρ (kilograms per cubic
meter) is directed at angle θ below the horizontal toward a smooth vertical surface
as shown in the figure. The flow from the nozzle of cross section a (square meters)
is uncomplicated by nozzle aperture effects. The beaker below the vertical surface,
which catches all the fluid, ha a uniform cross section A (square meters). During
the experiment the fluid level in the beaker rises at a uniform speed of v (meters
per second). What horizontal force is exerted by the stream of fluid on the vertical
surface? The horizontal distance from the spout opening and the wall is d (meters).
Give your final result in therms of the notation used in the problem statementand
any other notation you think you need to define.


A particle of mass m scatters off a second particle with mass M according to a
potential
α
U (r) = 2 , α>0
r
Initially m has a velocity v0 and approaches M with an impact parameter b. Assume
m M , so that M can be considered to remain at rest during the collision.
1. Find the distance of closest approach of m to M .
2. Find the laboratory scattering angle. (Remember that M remains at rest.)

A platform is free to rotate in the horizontal plane about a frictionless, vertical axle.
About this axle the platform has a moment of inertia Ip . An object is placed on a
platform a distance R from the center of the axle. The mass of the object is m and it
is very small in size. The coefficient of friction between the object and the platform
is µ. If at t = 0 a torque of constant magnitude τ0 about the axle is applied to the
platform when will the object start to slip?

A coupled oscillator system is constructed as shown, m1 = m, and m2 = 2m. Assume
that the two springs are massless, and that the motion of the system is only in one
dimension with no damping.
1. Find the eigenfrequencies and eigenvectors of the system.
2. Let L1 and L2 be the equilibrium positions of masses 1 and 2, respectively. Find

the solution for all times t ≥ 0 for x1 (t) and x2 (t) for the initial conditions:
x1 (t = 0) = L1 ; dx1 /dt = −V0 at t = 0

x2 (t = 0) = L2 ; dx2 /dt = 0 at t = 0.


A small steel ball with mass m is originally held in place by hand and is connected
to two identical horizontal springs fixed to walls as shown in the left figure. The two
springs are unstretched with natural length L and spring constant k, If the ball is
now let go, it will begin to drop and when it is at a distance y below its original
position each spring will stretch by an amount x as shown in the right figure. It is
observed that the amount of stretching x is very small in comparison to L.
1. Write down the equation that determines y(t). (Take y to be positive in going
downward.) Is this simple harmonic motion?
2. Find the equilibrium position yeq about which the steel ball will oscillate in
terms of m, g, k, and L.
3. Find the maximum distance, ymax , that the steel ball can drop below its original
position in therms of m, g, k, and L.
4. Write down an expression for the period of the steel ball’s motion. (DO NOT
evaluate the integral.)

An artificial Earth satellite is initially orbiting the earth in a circular orbit of radius
R0 . At a certain instant, its rocket fires for a negligibly short period of time. This
firing accelerates the satellite in the direction of motion and increases its velocity by a
factor of α. The change of satellite mass due to the burning of fuel can be considered
negligible.
1. Let E0 and E denote the total energy of the satellite before and after the firing
of the rocket. Find E solely in terms of E0 and α.
2. For α > αes the satellite will escape from earth. What is αes ?
3. For α < αes the orbit will be elliptical. For this case, find the maximum distance
between the satellite and the center of the earth, Rmax , in terms of R0 and α.


A large sphere of radius R and mass M has a mass density that varies according to
the distance from the center, r:

ρ0 (1 − r/R) , if r ≤ R;
ρ(r) =
0, if r > R.
A very small hole is drilled through the center of the sphere and a small object of
mass m is released from rest into the hole at the surface. How fast will the object be
moving when it reaches the center of the sphere?

~ and a magnetic
A particle of mass m and charge e is moving in an electric field E
~
field H.
1. What is the general formula for the force acting on a charged particle by the
fields? Write down the vector equation of motion for this charged particle in
three dimensions.
~ = 0, and B
2. Let E ~ be uniform in space and constant in time. If the particle has
an initial velocity which is perpendicular to the magnetic field, integrate the
equation of motion in component form to show that the trajectory is a circle
with radius r = v/ω, where ω = eB/m, (or eB/mc if you work in the Gaussian
unit system).
3. Now suppose that E ~ = (0, Ey , Ez ), and B

~ = (0, 0, B) are both uniform in space
and constant in time, integrate the equation of motion in component form again,
assuming that the particle starts at the origin with zero initial velocity.

A uniform rod, of mass m and length 2l, is freely rotated at one end and is initially
supported at the other end in a horizontal position. A particle of mass αm is placed
on the rod at the midpoint. The coefficient of static friction between the particle and
the rod is µ. If the support is suddenly removed:

1. Calculate by what factor the reaction at the hinge is instantaneously reduced?
2. The particle begins to slide when the falling rod makes an angle θ with the
horizontal. Calculate this angle.
[Hint: To do this part, you need both components of the force equation on the
mass αm; plus the torque equation and the equation for the conservation of the
energy of the whole system.]

For the masses in the figure, it is found that for one normal mode (“mode a”) the
ratio of the displacements is (x2 /x1 )a = 3/2. With ω12 ≡ k/m1 , and ω22 ≡ k/m2 , find
ωa2 /ω12 , and ωb2 /ω12 for the second normal mode (“mode b”). Neglect the masses of
the springs.

A large uniform density cube of mass M and side L is floating upright in a pond
exactly half submerged. A small steel ball of mass M/2 is dropped directly over its
center from the height H. Assume that the head-on collision is perfectly elastic and
that the steel ball rebounces vertically,
1. Find the height the steel ball rebounds.
2. Find the depth to which the large cube descends.
Express your answers in terms of M , L, g, and H. Neglect all forms of dissipation

and assume that the water surface remains level at all times.

A steel ball of mass M is attached by massless springs to four corners of a 2a by b + c
horizontal, rectangular frame.
√ The springs constants
√ k1 and k2 with corresponding
equilibrium lengths L1 = a2 + b2 and L2 = a2 + c2 as shown. Neglecting the force
of gravity,
1. Find the frequencies of small amplitude oscillations of the steel ball in the plane
of rectangular frame.
2. Identify the type of motion associated with each frequency.
3. Is the oscillation of the steel ball perpendicular to the plane of the rectangular
frame harmonic? Why or why not?


A small block of mass m is attached near the outer rim of a solid disk of radius a
which also has mass m. The disk rolls without slipping on a horizontal straight line.
1. Find the equation of motion for the angle θ(t) (measured with respect to the
vertical as shown) for all θ.
2. Find the system’s small amplitude oscillation frequency about its stable equi-
librium position.

A baseball is thrown straight upward at a park in College Station. It has an initial
speed of v0 . The net force acting on the ball is given by
F = −mgj − kv,
where k is the air drag coefficient. (Note: the upward direction is taken to be j.)
1. Find the magnitude of the velocity of the ball as a function of the time in terms
of v0 , g, m, and k.
2. Find tmax , the time required for the ball to reach its maximum height, in terms
of v0 , g, m, and k.

3. Find hmax , the maximum height reached by the ball above its point of release,
in terms of v0 , g, m, and k.

A circular platform of mass M and radius R is free to rotate about a vertical axis
through its center. A man of mass M is originally standing right at the edge of the
platform at the end of a line painted along a diameter of the platform. The platform
and man are set spinning with an angular velocity ω0 . At t = 0 the man begins to
walk toward the center of the platform along the line so that his distance from the
center is R − v0 t. If the man slips off the line when he is at R/2, what must be the
coefficient of friction between the man and the platform?

A uniform sphere with a mass M and radius R is set into rotation with a horizontal
angular velocity ω0 . At t = 0, the sphere is placed without bouncing onto a horizontal
surface as shown. There is friction between the sphere and the surface. Initially, the
sphere slips, but after an unknown time T , it rolls without slipping.
1. What is the angular speed of rotation when the sphere finally rolls without
slipping at time T ?
2. How much energy is lost by the sphere between t = 0 and t = T ?
3. Show that amount of energy lost is equal to the work done against friction
causing the sphere to roll without slipping?

Two pendulums each of length l, whose motions are in the same plane, are initially
situated as shown in the figure. The balls (labeled A and B) are made of the same
material and have the same mass. In the collision of two balls, a coefficient e (0 <
e < 1) is fixed, where e is defined as the ratio of the relative speeds between two balls
after and before the collision e = |vrel (after)|/|vrel (before)|. Assume φ(0) is small so
that the frequency is independent of the amplitude (called “isochronism”) for each
pendulum. The gravitational acceleration is g.
(0)
1. Obtain the speed of ball A, vA , at the bottom just before the first collision.
2. Obtain the relative speed of two balls, u(0) , at the bottom just after the first
collision.
3. Find the maximum opening angle φ(n) after the n-th collision.

4. If only ball A is set at φ = φ(0) initially, obtain the speed of each ball at the
bottom after the n-th collision. What is the speed of each ball as n → ∞?

A toy consists of two equal masses (m) which hang from straight massless arms (length
l) from an essentially massless pin. The pin (length L) and the arms are in plane.
Consider only motion in this plane.
1. Find the potential and kinetic energies of the masses as a function of θ, the
angle between the vertical and the pin, and the time derivatives of θ. (Assume
the toy is rocking back and forth about the pivot point.)
2. Find the condition in terms of L, l, and α such that this device is stable.
3. Find the period of oscillation if θ is restricted to very small values.


A homogeneous disk of radius R and mass M rolls without slipping on a horizontal
surface and is attracted to a point Q which lies a distance d below the plane (see
figure). If the force of attraction is proportional to the distance from the center of
mass of the disk to the force center Q, find the frequency of oscillations about the
position of equilibrium using the Lagrangian formulation.
Problem 47. 1992-Spring-CM-U-1 ID:CM-U-517

For a particle of mass m subject to a central force F = r̂Fr (r), where Fr (r) is an
arbitrary function of the coordinate distance r from a fixed center:
1. Show that the energy E is s constant. What property of the force is used?
2. Show that the angular momentum L is s constant. What property of the force
is used?
3. Show that, as s consequence of the previous part, the motion of the particle is
in a plane.
4. Show that, as a consequence, the trajectory of motion in polar coordinate can

be solved by quadrature. (i.e., the time-dependence of the coordinates can be
expressed as integrals, which you should express, but which you cannot evaluate
until the function Fr (r) is specified.) For this part it will be useful to introduce
an effective potential incorporating the angular momentum conservation.
5. Suppose Fr (r) is attractive and proportional to rn , where n is an integer. For

what values of n are stable circular orbits possible?
[Hint: Use the effective potential defined before, make a rough drawing of the
different possible situations, and argue qualitatively using this drawing.]


News item: In the basin of the river Podkamenaya Tunguska in central Siberia, a fearsome
fireball came down from the heavens on June 30, 1908, at 7:17 A.M. local time. It was
seen over a radius of 600 to 1000 kilometers; It scorched the vegetation for a radius of tens
of kilometers. The air blast went around the earth. No meteoric fragments have ever been
found; only some microscopic globules have been extracted from the soil and they are of
uncertain connection with the event. The possibility that the explosion was caused by the
arrival of a small bit of antimatter has been considered as a serious possibility.
Consider a small bit of antimatter coming straight down at high velocity. We
want to make an approximate calculation to determine the initial mass it must have
in order to just reach the surface of the earth. Assume the following simplified model
of the event:
• The antimatter annihilates (converts to radiation) all the air in its path, cutting
a clean hole through the atmosphere. Annihilation is mutual, a gram of matter
for every gram of antimatter.
• The arriving bit of antimatter is a spherical piece of anti-iron that stays spherical
as it decreases in size while passing through the atmosphere.
• Assume the density ρ of the earth’s atmosphere is a linear function of height x
above the surface for 0 ≤ x ≤ 16000m; and that ρ = 0 for x ≥ 16000m.
Define the following parameters:
– ρ0 is the density of the earth’s atmosphere at the surface of the earth.
– r(x) is the radius of the sphere of antimatter at height x above the surface.
– R is the initial radius of the sphere of antimatter, R = r (x ≥ 16000m).
– ρa is the density of the antimatter, ρa ≈ 8gm/cm3 .
– Ma (x) is the mass of the antimatter at a height x. Note, Ma (0) = 0.
– Mm (x) is the mass of air that has been annihilated when the antimatter has reached
a height x above the surface. Note, Mm (0) = Ma (∞).
Questions:
1. Using this linear model of the atmosphere together with the fact that atmo-
spheric pressure at the surface of the earth is ≈ 105 N/m2 , determine ρ0 .
2. Write (i) Ma (x) in terms of ρa and r(x), (ii) an expression for Ma (x) in terms
of R and Mm (x), (iii) an explicit integral expression for Mm (x).
3. Determine r(x). You may find it helpful to first determine dr/dx and then
integrate.
4. Evaluate R and Ma (∞) numerically.
5. TNT releases about 1000 calories per gram. Determine the megaton equivalent
of this piece of antimatter. Note: 1pound= 454grams; 1ton= 2000pounds.

Problem 49. 1993-Fall-CM-U-1 ID:CM-U-583

A satellite of mass m is traveling at speed v0 in a circular orbit of radius r0 under the
gravitational force of a fixed mass M at point O. At a certain point Q in the orbit
(see the figure below) the direction of motion of the satellite is suddenly changed
by an angle α without any change in the magnitude of the velocity. As a result the
satellite goes into an elliptic orbit. Its distance of the closest approach to O (at point
P ) is r0 /5.
1. What is the speed of the satellite at P , expressed as a multiple of v0 ?
2. Find the angle α.

A “Yo-Yo” (inner and outer radii r and R) has mass M and moment of inertia about
its symmetry axis M k 2 .
1. The Yo-Yo is attached to a wall by a massless string and located on the slope as
shown in Fig. a). The coefficient of static friction between the slope and Yo-Yo
is µ. Find the largest angle θ before the Yo-Yo starts moving down.
2. Now, consider Yo-Yo which is falling down as shown in Fig. b). Find the ratio
of its translational and rotational kinetic energies.


A point-like test mass m is placed at the center of a spherical planet of uniform
density, mass M and radius R.
1. Calculate the energy required to remove this test mass to an infinite distance
from the planet.
2. Calculate the gravitational binding energy of this planet (without the test mass),
i.e. the energy required to break the planet up into infinitesimal pieces separated
by an infinite distance from each other.

A block of mass m is located at the top of a wedge, as shown in the figure. The wedge
is fixed to a bus moving at a constant speed of u to the right. The block is released
at t = 0 and slides down the wedge. The friction is negligible. A student calculates
the speed of the block at the bottom of the wedge in the “moving bus frame” by
conservation of energy:
mv 2
= mgH
2
√
Therefore, v = 2gH.
The student, now working in the “ground frame”, again uses conservation of
energy:
mw2 mu2
= + mgH
2 2
where w is the speed of the block at the bottom of the wedge in the ground frame.
Therefore, p
w = 2gH + u2 . — result (1)
He now checks to see if this result agrees with the one he expected from w
~ = ~v + ~u:
p √ p
w = (~v + ~u)2 = v 2 + u2 − 2vu cos θ = 2gH + u2 − 2vu cos θ — result (2)
He finds two different results (1) and (2). Determine which result is wrong, (1), (2)
or both, and correct the error(s) in the above derivation(s).


A sailboat is at, rest because there is no wind. The boat is located at the equator.
The captain decides to raise the anchor from the deck to the top of the mast which
is H high. The mass of the anchor is m and the rest of the boat has a mass of M .
Ignore any frictional forces exerted by the water on the boat. Call the radius of the
earth R.
1. The boat begins to move. Why?
2. Which direction does it move?
3. What is the boat’s surface speed when the anchor is at the top?
4. Where does the energy come from?

A thin flat uniform square plate of side l and mass m is supported vertically at
the corners by 4 vertical springs 1,2,3,4 which have spring constants k1 = k3 = K,
k2 = k4 = 2K. Assume constraints that eliminate horizontal translation but allow
small rotations about the center of mass of the plate.
Find the three eigen-frequencies and their relative amplitudes. Describe these
modes.


Two uniform very long (infinite) rods with identical linear mass density ρ do not
intersect. Their directions form an angle α and their shortest separation is a.
1. Find the force of attraction between them due to Newton’s law of gravity.
2. Give a dimensional argument to explain why the force is independent of a.
3. If the rods were of a large but finite length L, what dimensional form would the
lowest order correction to the force you found in the first part have?
R π/2 π
Note: for A2 < 1, −π/2 1−A2dθsin2 θ = √1−A 2

Suppose that the payload (e.g., a space capsule) has mass m and is mounted on a
two-stage rocket (see figure below). The total mass — both rockets fully fueled, plus
the payload — is N m. The mass of the second-stage plus the payload, after first-stage
burnout and separation, is nm. In each stage the ratio of burnout mass (casing) to
initial mass (casing plus fuel) is r, and the exhaust speed is v0 .
1. Find the velocity v1 gained from first-stage burn starting from rest (and ignoring
gravity). Express your answer in terms of v0 , N , n, and r.
2. Obtain a corresponding expression for the additional velocity, v2 gained from
the second-stage burn.
3. Adding vi and v2 , you have the payload velocity v in terms of N , n, v0 , and r.
Taking N , v0 , and r as constants, find the value for n for which v is a maximum.
4. Show that the condition for v to be a maximum corresponds to having equal
gains of velocity in the two stages. Find the maximum value of v, and verify
that it makes sense for the limiting cases described by r = 0 and r = 1.
5. You need to build a system to obtain a payload velocity of 10km/sec, using
rockets for which v0 = 2.5km/sec and r = 0.1. Can you do it with a two-stage
rocket?
6. Find an expression for the payload velocity of a single-stage rocket with the
same values of N , r, and v0 . Can you do it with a single-stage rocket by taking
the same conditions as in the previous point?


A particle of mass m moving parallel to the y-axis with a velocity v and impact
parameters x and z is incident upon a uniform ellipsoid of revolution of mass M with
2 2
semi-axes a = b and c, as shown in the figure (Note: xa2 + zc2 < 1). The particle sticks
to the surface of the ellipsoid as it strikes it. Describe quantitatively the motion of
the ellipsoid as function of time assuming its mass to be much larger than that of the
particle. Note: Moment of inertia of the ellipsoid around c axis is 25 M a2 and around
the a axis it is 15 M (a2 + c2 ).

The most efficient way to transfer a spacecraft from an initial circular orbit at R1 to a
larger circular orbit at R2 is to insert it into an intermediate elliptical orbit with radius
R1 at perigee and R2 at apogee. The following equation relates the semi-major axis a,
the total energy of the system E and the potential energy U (r) = −GM m/r ≡ −k/r
for an elliptical orbit of the spacecraft of mass m about the earth of mass M :
k
R1 + R2 = 2a = .
|E|
1. Derive the relation between the velocity v and the radius R for a circular orbit.
2. Determine the velocity increase required to inject the spacecraft into the ellipti-
cal orbit as specified by R1 and R2 . Let v1 be the velocity in the initial circular
orbit and vp be the velocity at perigee after the first boost so ∆v = vp − v1 .

3. Determine the velocity increment required to insert the spacecraft into the sec-
ond circular orbit when it reaches apogee at r = R2 . In this case let v2 be the
velocity in the final orbit and va be the velocity at apogee so ∆v = v2 − va .

A bullet of mass m, is fired with velocity v0 at a solid cube of side a on the frictionless
table. The cube has mass of m2 and supports a pendulum of mass m3 and length l.
The cube and pendulum are initially at rest. The bullet becomes embedded in the
cube instantaneously after the collision.
1. If θmax is the maximum angle through which the pendulum swings, find the
velocity v0 of the incident bullet.
2. When the pendulum’s swing reaches the maximum angle, the pendulum’s string
is cut off. Therefore the solid cube slides and hits a small obstacle which stops
the leading edge of the cube, forcing it to begin rotating about the edge. Find
the minimum value of v0 such that the cube will flip over. Note that the moment
of inertia of the cube about an axis along one of its edge is 23 M a2 . Assume the
bullet is a point located at the center of the cube.

A particle of mass m moves in one dimension under the influence
p of a harmonic force
F (x) = −kx, (k > 0) according to x(t) = A cos ω0 t, (ω0 = k/m). The presence
of the additional small anharmonic force −βx3 , (β > 0) leads to a change in the
oscillatory frequency compared to the β = 0 case and also causes higher harmonics
to appear in the expression for x(t).
1. Considering x(t) as a Fourier series in ωt find the leading order corrections to

ω and x(t) due to the anharmonic term. Assume |βx2 | k.
2. Apply your result from the previous part to the simple pendulum to find the
leading order finite amplitude correction to the small-amplitude period.


A wire has the shape of a hyperbola, y = c/x, c > 0. A small bead of mass m can
slide without friction on the wire. The bead starts at rest from a height h as shown
in the figure
1. Find the velocity vector ~v of the bead as a function of x.
2. Find the force F~ that the bead exerts on the wire as a function of x.

A person wants to hold up a large object of mass M by exerting a force F on a
massless rope. The rope is wrapped around a fixed pole of radius R. The coefficient
of friction between the rope and the pole is µ. If the rope makes n + 1/2 turns around
the pole, what is the maximum weight the person can support?


An open water tank is to be built with a hole of area A0 in the bottom so that the
height of the water will decrease at a constant rate c. The tank can then be used as a
clock. Assume water to be ideal (incompressible, without viscosity) and assume that
the atmospheric pressure difference between the bottom and the top of the tank can
be neglected.
1. What shape should the tank have? Is the solution unique?
2. Assuming the tank to have circular symmetry around a vertical axis, as shown
in the figure, determine its shape y(x).
3. Given the instantaneous water level y1 , find the height h at whtch the pressure
inside the tank is maximal at that instant.

A boat of mass m0 is initially propelled at constant speed v0 by a force F through
water which offers a resistance f = kv, where k is a constant and v is the velocity of
the boat. Then at time t0 = 0 the boat springs a leak and subsequently takes in water
at a constant rate λ(mass/time). The boat sinks when the mass of water taken in is
also m0 . Find the distance that the boat travels before sinking after springing the
leak. Assume that the propelling force F and the resistive constant k do not change
after the boat has taken in water.

A uniform solid cylinder of mass M and radius R is held with its symmetry axis
horizontal, just above a flat horizontal surface. The cylinder is given an initial angular
velocity ω0 about its symmetry axis and then is dropped. Initially, after impact with
the surface, the cylinder slips as it begins to translate. After a time t, pure rolling

motion begins. The coefficient of kinetic friction between the cylinder and the surface
is µ.
1. Determine the equation for the time t.
2. Determine the equation for the velocity of the center of mass when rolling begins.

Masses ma and mb and three unstretched springs just span the distance between two
supports, as illustrated in the figure. The two outer springs are identical and have
spring constants k, and the middle spring has spring constant K. The masses are
constrained to move along the straight horizontal line connecting the two supports.
1. Write down the equations of motion of masses ma and mb , denoting their dis-
placement xa and xb from their equilibrium positions.
2. Determine the two characteristic frequencies of the system for arbitrary ma and
mb .
3. Determine the two normal modes associated with the two frequencies when
ma = mb .

A uniform cylinder of mass m and radius R is to roll, without slipping, down an
inclined plane. If the coefficient of (static) friction between the cylinder and the
plane is µ, then to what highest angle θ can the plane be elevated if the cylinder is
not to slip?

A uniform line-like bar of mass M , and length 2l rests on a frictionless, horizontal
table. A point-like particle of mass m slides along the table with velocity v0 per-
pendicular to the bar and strikes the bar very near one end, as illustrated below.
Assume that the force between the bar and the particle during the collision is in the
plane of the table and perpendicular to the bar. If the interaction is elastic (i.e., if
energy is conserved) and lasts an infinitesimal amount of time, then determine the
rod’s center-of-mass velocity V and angular velocity ω, and the particle’s velocity v
after the collision.


Two pucks, each of mass m, are connected by a massless string of length 2L as
illustrated below. The pucks lie on a horizontal, frictionless sheet of ice. The string
is initially straight (i.e., θ = 90o ). A constant, horizontal force F is applied to the
middle of the string in a direction perpendicular to the line joining the pucks. When
the pucks collide, they stick together. How much mechanical energy is lost in the
collision?

A particle of mass m slides down a curve y = kx2 , (k > 0) under the influence of
gravity, as illustrated. There is no friction, and the particle is constrained to stay on
the curve. It starts from the top with negligible velocity.
1. Find the velocity v as a function of x.

2. Next, assume that the particle initially slides down the curve under gravity, but
this time is not constrained to the curve. Does it leave the curve after it has
fallen a certain distance? Prove your answer.

A rod of mass M and length L rotates freely about a vertical axle through its center,
as illustrated. A bug of mass m stands at the center of the rod. The system is set
into rotation about the axle with initial angular velocity ω0 . The bug then begins to
walk toward the end of the rod so that its distance from the center is bt2 , where b is
a constant.
1. Find both components of the force exerted on the bug as a function of time.
2. Find the angular velocity of the system when the bug just arrives at the end of
the rod, and the angle that the rod turns through while the bug walks from the
center to the end of the rod.


A billiard ball initially at rest, is given a sharp impulse by a cue stick. The cue stick
is held horizontally a distance h above the centerline as in the figure below. The ball
leaves the cue with a horizontal speed v0 and, due to its spin, eventually reaches a
final speed of 9v0 /7. Find h in terms of R, where R is the radius of the ball. You may
assume that the impulsive force F is much larger than the frictional force during the
short time that the impulse is acting.

A thin sheet of material of uniform thickness and uniform density has a horizontal
dimension L meters and a vertical dimension H meters. Its total mass is M kilograms.
1. Calculate the moment of inertia of this rectangular body about an axis through
the center of mass parallel to a side of dimension L. (Your answer should be
given in terms of any of the required descriptive parameters given above but
should especially include the mass M .)
2. Suppose the rectangle described above is placed with one side of length L along
the horizontal z-axis of a right-handed coordinate system shown below (The
z-axis is pointing out of the plane of the paper.) The rectangle is supported
on a frictionless horizontal surface coincident everywhere with the x − z plane
and is initially at rest with its plane at angle θ with respect to the horizontal as
shown below. Note that the gravitational force acts along the vertical y-axis.

Assume the rectangle is released from rest at the initial position described im-
mediately above. Calculate the velocity of the center of mass of the rectangle
just before it strikes the horizontal plane.

Gravity g and a drag force
ẏ/v0
Fd = F0
1 + (ẏ/v0 )2
act on a mass m constrained to move vertically. Take the downward direction to be
positive y.
1. Sketch Fd vs. ẏ. Indicate where Fd reaches its maximum value and give ẏ at
(Fd )max .
2. If at t = 0 the mass is at rest at y = 0 and if ẏ v0 for all time t, then find y

as a function of t.
3. What condition must be satisfied so thatẏ v0 for all time t?

For the remaining parts, assume that F0 = 4mg and take the drag force into
account exactly.
4. What limiting values of ẏ can occur? Denote these ẏ1 , and ẏ2 , with |ẏ1 | < |ẏ2 |.
Do not try to solve the remaining parts analytically.
5. If ẏ differs slightly from ẏ1 , then describe the subsequent motion of the particle.
6. If ẏ is slightly less than ẏ2 , then describe the subsequent motion of the particle.
7. If ẏ is slightly greater than ẏ2 , then describe the subsequent motion of the
particle.


A point particle of mass m is constrained to move on a hyperbolic spiral and in a
central force field characterized by the potential
V = −kr−n ,
where k is a positive constant. The spiral is described by the equation
rθ = r0 ,
where r0 is a positive constant.

1. Construct the Lagrangian of the system.
2. Calculate the ratio Fr /Fθ of the constraint forces Fr , and Fθ as a function of r

for arbitrary n.
3. Under certain conditions Fr , and Fθ vanish. Derive the critical value of n, and
the relation among k, m, r0 , and the initial radial speed v0 . such that this
occurs.

Under the influence of gravity, a sphere of mass m, radius R and moment-of-inertia I
rolls downward without slipping on a wedge of triangular cross section and mass M .
The wedge slides without friction on a horizontal plane. This ts illustrated below. At
t = 0, let X = 0 and s = 0.
1. Write down the Lagrangian for the system.
2. Find the horizontal and vertical components of the acceleration of the wedge
and the sphere.
3. If M = 0 and I = 0 (the sphere’s mass m concentrated at its center), then

what are the accelerations of the sphere and the wedge? Give the magnitude
and direction of each.


Two sticks, each of length l and mass M , are joined together at a right angle to form
a ”T-square”. This T-square is then hung on a nail, on which it is free to rotate
about O, as shown. Find
1. its moment of inertia I about O;
2. the torque due to gravity about O when its bisector is at angle θ, as shown;
3. its period of small oscillations.

A particle of mass m moves in a region where its potential energy is given by
V = Cr4 ,
where C is a real, positive constant. Consider the case where the particle moves in a
circular orbit of radius R.
1. Express its total energy E and angular momentum L as a function of R.
2. Determine the period τorb , of this circular orbit as a function of R.
3. What is its period τrad for small radial oscillations if the orbit is slightly per-
turbed? Express τrad as a factor times τorb .


A particle of mass m is moving under the influence of a force given by
F~ = λ~r × ~r˙,
where λ is a constant.
1. Show that the speed of the particle is constant, i. e., ~v · ~v =const.
2. Show that the radial component of the acceleration is zero.
3. Using the results of parts of the two previous parts, show that the distance of
the particle from the origin is given by
p
r = c0 + c1 t + c2 t2 ,
where c0 , c1 , and c2 are integration constants.
4. Show whether or not angular momentum is conserved.
Useful formulas components of ~r, ~r˙ ≡ ~v , and ~r¨ ≡ ~a in spherical coordinates:
~r = rêr
~v = ṙêr + rθ̇êθ + r(sin θ)φ̇êφ
h i h i h i
~a = r̈ − rθ̇2 − r(sin θ)2 φ̇2 êr + rθ̈ + 2ṙθ̇ − r(sin θ)φ̇2 êθ + r(sin θ)φ̈ + 2(sin θ)ṙφ̇ + r(cos θ)θ̇φ̇ êφ
where
êr · êr = 1, êθ · êθ = 1, êφ · êφ = 1, êr · êθ = 0, êr · êφ = 0, êθ · êφ = 0,
Vector products:
h i h i h i h i
~ B
A· ~ ×C
~ =B ~· C ~ ×A
~ =C
~· A~×B
~ , ~ B
A× ~ ×C
~ =B~ A~·C
~ −C~ A~·B
~

A particle of mass m is acted upon by a force Fx = −k1 x, Fy = −k2 y, Fz = 0.
1. Suppose the initial velocity in the z direction is zero. Show that the motion
must be in a plane perpendicular to the z axis.
2. Show analytically that the force on the mass is non-central unless k1 = k2 .
3. Using x and y as your “generalized coordinates” set up the Lagrange equa-

tions and demonstrate that these lead to the equations of motion of the two-
dimensional harmonic oscillator.
4. Find the orbit of the mass in parametric form.

5. Show that the time rate of change of the angular momentum of the mass about
the z axis is proportional to the difference k1 − k2 .
6. Determine the ratios of k1 /k2 which cause the motion of the mass to be periodic.

The two ”blocks” in the figure below are frictionless and have the same mass m.
The larger block is sitting on a horizontal, frictionless table. The three springs are
massless and have the same spring constant k, When one of the springs connecting
the two blocks together is at its natural length, the other one is also at its natural
length.
1. Draw a figure which clearly shows your choice of generalized coordinates. For
each generalized coordinate, determine the associated generalized momentum.
Give interpretations of your generalized momenta in terms of simple physical
concepts.
2. Find the Hamiltonian equations of motion of the system.
3. Determine the frequencies of the normal modes of oscillation of this system.

The system shown below consists of two small beads, one of mass m and the other of
mass 2m, that are both free to slide on the horizontal frictionless fixed ring of radius
R. The beads are connected by springs, one with spring constant k and the other
with spring constant 2k, that wind around the ring as shown. The equilibrium length
of each of the springs is πR.
1. Find equations of motion for the two beads. Be sure to draw a figure that
clearly defines your choice of generalized coordinates.
2. Find the frequencies of small oscillation of the system and the normal mode
associated with each of the small oscillation frequencies.
3. Give a simple physical interpretation of the frequencies and normal modes that
you found in the previous part.


A flat pie shaped wedge cut from a disc lies in the XOY plane. The disc has
p radius
a. The angle of the wedge is 2θ. The density of the disc is ρ = ρ0 r = ρ0 x2 + y 2 ,
where r is the distance of the point (x, y) from O.
1. Find the moment of inertia of the wedge about the z-axis.
2. Find rg the distance of the center of gravity of the wedge from O.
3. The z-axis is rotated till it is horizontal. The wedge is allowed to oscillate freely
about O in the vertical xOy plane. What is the period of small oscillations?


A particle of mass m has velocity v0 when it is far from the center of a potential of
the form:
k
V (r) = 4 ,
r
where k is a positive constant that you can conveniently write as
1
k = mv02 a4 .
2
1. Find rmin the distance of the closest approach of the particle to the center of
force, as a function of the impact parameter b of the particle.
2. Find an expression for the scattering angle of the particle as a function of the
impact parameter b. Your expression may include a definite integral that you
need not evaluate, so long as no unknown quantities appear in the integral.

A long chain of length l has mass per unit length λ. It is suspended vertically above
the pan of the a spring scale, so that its bottom end just touches the pan. The chain is
then released and falls freely under the influence of gravity. Determine the maximum
weight reading of the scale assuming that the pan does not move and the chain does
not bounce.

A particle of mass m moves in a circular orbit of radius r0 under the influence of a
potential V (r) = V0 ln(r/r0 ), where V0 > 0.
1. Find the period of the orbit.
2. Find the frequency of small (radial) oscillations about the circular orbit.
3. Show that, while the circular orbit is a stable solution, the orbit with small
radial oscillations is not periodic.

A mass m slides down the outside of horizontal cylinder of radius R. Its initial
velocity at the top of the cylinder (θ = 0) is very small and can be neglected, and the
whole motion takes place in a vertical plane. There is no friction between the mass
and the cylinder, but there is a force opposing to the motion due to air resistance.
The force is antiparallel to the velocity v and has magnitude βmv 2 /2R, where β is a
dimensionless parameter.

1. Show that the angle at which the mass leaves the cylinder is given by:
(1 + β 2 ) cos θ = 2 e−βθ − cos θ + β sin θ

[Hint: After substitution into your equation of motion, and subsequent multi-
plication by an appropriate function, you can obtain an integrable differential
equation.]
2. Use the result from part a. to derive an approximate value needed for β such
that the angle at which the mass leaves the cylinder is 1/100 of a radian less
then π/2.

A bead of mass m moves on a fixed frictionless wire shaped as a cycloid:
x = a(θ − sin θ)
y = a(1 + cos θ)
The wire is oriented in a vertical plane, with the +y direction pointing upward and
the gravitational force downward.
1. Find the differential equation(s) of motion for the bead, but do not solve the
equation(s).
2. Find the frequency of small amplitude oscillations of the bead on the wire about
the equilibrium location.

An infinitely long straight frictionless wire, which passes through the origin of the
coordinate system, is held at a constant angle α with respect to the (vertical) z
axis. The wire rotates about the z axis at constant angular velocity ω, so that it
describes the surface of a pair of right circular cones, centered on the vertical axis,
with their common vertices at the origin. Hence, an arbitrary point P , fixed on the
wire, describes a horizontal circle as the wire rotates. A bead of mass m is free to
slide along this wire under the influence of gravity and without friction. Let r be the
distance of the bead from the apex of the cone, positive if above and negative if below
the vertex.

1. Write the Lagrangian for this system in terms of r, α, ω, m, and g.

2. From the Lagrangian, obtain the differential equation of motion for the bead.
3. Solve the equation of motion subject to the initial conditions that r = r0 and
dr/dt = 0 at t = 0. Find the condition on r0 which determines whether the
bead will rise or fall on the wire.
4. Use your solution to the equation of motion to find r(t) in the limit that ω goes
to zero and show that it is consistent with simple kinematics.

A classical oscillator consisting of two masses m1 and m2 , connected by an ideal spring
(spring constant k), slides on a frictionless ramp as shown. The lower portion of the
ramp is horizontal (gravity acts vertically), while on the left is an immovable vertical
wall. The motion of the oscillator occurs entirely within the plane of the figure. The
system starts stationary at height h, with the spring un-stretched.
Assume collisions with the wail, of which there may be more than one, are in-
stantaneous and elastic. Neglect the small height difference between masses, and also
neglect any differential force on them caused by the curvature of the ramp. Fur-
thermore, assume the spring is sufficiently stiff that it does not collapse, so that the
masses never touch each other.
1. For m1 sufficiently greater than m2 , there will be only one collision with the wall
before the oscillator starts back up the ramp. In this case, find the maximum
height attained by the oscillator on its first rebound.
2. For m1 = m2 = m, determine the behavior of the oscillator as it interacts with
the wall Find the maximum height attained by the rebounding oscillator in this
situation, and sketch x1 and x2 vs. time while the oscillator interacts with the
wall.

3. In the case that m1 m2 , describe qualitatively the behavior while the oscilla-
tor interacts with the wall, and give qualitative sketches of x1 , and x2 vs. time,
demonstrating this behavior.

You have three masses along a one-dimensional space with masses m1 , m2 , and m3
in that order. The second and third masses are initially at rest, and the first mass
approaches from the left at some velocity. Mass m1 collides with mass m2 , which
after recoiling collides with mass m3 . Assume all collisions are elastic. For any
general values of m1 , and m3 , what value must m2 have for the maximum transfer of
kinetic energy to m3 ? Assume these are non-relativistic collisions.

A uniform disk of mass M , and radius R is free to move without slipping on a flat
horizontal surface. A pendulum is suspended from a frictionless pivot mounted an
the axis of the cylinder. The pendulum consists of a massless rod of length L with a
point mass m attached to its end.
1. Write the Lagrangian for this system in terms of x, φ, L, m, M and g.
2. From the Lagrangian obtain the equations of motion for the system, but DO
NOT ATTEMPT TO SOLVE THEM.
3. Now obtain the equations of motion assuming small displacements of the gen-
eralized coordinates.
4. One “normal mode” of this system consists of a uniform translation. Find the
frequency of oscillation of this system about an equilibrium position for its other
normal mode.
5. Give a QUALITATIVE description of the motion associated with the normal

mode in the previous part. NOTE: Do not solve for the exact algebraic form.


A person on Earth observes two spacecraft (A and B) moving directly towards each
other, and colliding. At time t = 0 in the Earth frame, the observer on Earth
determines that spacecraft A, traveling to the right at speed vA = 4c/5 is at a point
a, and that spacecraft B, traveling to the left at speed vB = 3c/5, is at point b. The
points a and b are separated by a distance L in the Earth’s frame.
1. In the Earth frame, how much time will elapse before the spacecraft collide?
2. How much time will elapse in A’s frame from the time the spacecraft A passes
the point a until the collision? How much time will elapse in B’s frame from
the time B passes b until the collision?

A populated spherical planet, diameter a, is protected from incoming missiles by a
repulsive force field described by the potential energy function:
V (r) = ka(a + r)e−r/a , r > a/2.
Here k > 0 and r is the distance of the missile from the center of the planet. Neglect
all other forces on the missile.
The initial speed of a missile of mass m relative to the planet is v0 when it is a long
way away, and the missile is aimed in such a way that the closest it would approach
the center of the planet, if it were not deflected at all by the force field or contact
with the surface, would be at an impact parameter b (see the diagram). The missile

will not harm the planet if it does not come into contact with its surface. Therefore,
we wish to explore, as a function of v0 the range of values of b:
0≤b≤B
such that the missile will hit the planet.
1. If v0 is less than a certain critical velocity, vc , the missile will not be able to
reach the planet at all, even if b = 0. Determine vc .
2. For missiles with velocity greater than vc find B as a function of v0 .

A particle of mass m is constrained to move in a straight, frictionless tube which is
inclined at a fixed angle θ to the horizontal. The tube moves in its own vertical plane
with constant horizontal acceleration a (gravity acts downward). The particle and
tube are initially at rest at the origin of the coordinate system
1. Obtain the Lagrangian of this system
2. Obtain the equations of motion for this system.
3. Solve them to obtain the x and y coordinates as a function of time and the
parameters of the problem.
4. Show that an alternative view of the motion of the particle as occurring in an
accelerated frame of reference gives a consistent result.


Two beads, each of mass m, are free to move around a fixed frictionless vertical hoop
of radius R. The two beads are connected by a massless spring, with natural length
πR and spring constant k, that wraps around thc hoop as shown below. The spring
is also free to move without friction around the hoop. Assume gravity acts downward
and that mg/(kR) 1.
1. Find the exact equations of motion for the system. Be sure the you provide a
clear definition of the coordinates that you adopt.
2. Find the frequencies of small amplitude oscillation of the system.

A particle is projected vertically upward in a constant gravitational field with an initial
velocity v0 . There is dissipative force acting on the particle that is proportional to
the square of the instantaneous velocity.
1. Write down the particle’s terminal velocity vt .
2. Construct a differential equation for the particle’s velocity v as a function of its

height.
3. Express the velocity of the particle when it returns to the initial position in
terms of v0 and vt .


Two particles (masses M1 and M2 ) are moving under the influence of their mutual
gravitational force. See the figure below.
1. Show that the Lagrangian for this two body system can be reduced to a one
body system with reduced mass µ moving in a potential U (r).
2. Assume the two particles are moving in circular orbits about one another, sep-
arated by a distance r0 , and with period T . Find the period T in terms of M1 ,
M2 , and r0 .
3. Now assume the particles are suddenly stopped in their orbits and allowed to
fall toward one another under the influence of gravity. Find the time τ that it
takes them to collide and express this answer in terms of T . Assume that r0 is
much larger than the diameter of either particle.

Three spheres of equal mass m are constrained to move in one dimension along the
line connecting their centers. The three spheres are connected by three springs, as
shown in the figure. The three springs have equal spring constants k In equilibrium,
all three of the springs are at their respective natural lengths.
1. Choose a reasonable set of coordinates and find the equations of motion.
2. Find the normal-mode frequencies.

We wish to extend a flexible wire of length L from a point on the equator of the earth,
reaching into space in a straight line. Its uniform linear density is ρ. Assume the
earth is spherical, radius R, and rotating at Ω radians per second. The acceleration
due to gravity at the surface of the earth is g, which of course decreases according to
Newton’s Law of gravity as the distance from the center of the earth is varied.
Once set in equilibrium with respect to the rotating earth we assume the wire is
strong enough not to break, and is held only at its contact point with the earth’s
surface, where the tension is Ts . There are no other forces on the wire except gravity.

1. Find the tension T of the wire at an arbitrary distance along the wire, assuming
that the wire is long enough so that it will not fall dawn.
2. Find Ts , the tension at the earth’s surface.
3. If the wire is too short it will fall down. Find the critical length, Lc , of the wire
in this case. You may assume for the purpose of solving the equations involved,
that the length, Lc , of the wire is much bigger than the radius of the earth, R.

Consider the system, pictured below, which consists of a ball of mass m connected
to a massless rod of length l. This is then joined at point r to a spring of spring
constant k connected to a block of mass M which rests on a frictionless table. When
θ = 0 and x = 0 the spring is unstretched.
1. Write the Lagrangian for the system in terms of the coordinates θ and x assum-
ing small displacements of the pendulum
2. Write the equations of motion for the system.
3. Making the simplifying assumptions that M = m, l = 2r, and setting k/m =

g/l = ω02 , find the normal-mode frequencies of this system for small oscillations
in terms of ω0
4. Assuming the same conditions, calculate the ratio of amplitudes (for each of the
two masses) of the two normal modes of oscillation.


A particle with mass m, confined to a plane, is subject to a force field given by

~ −k~r, for |r| ≤ a
F (~r) =
0, for |r| > a
The particle enters the field from the left horizontally with an initial velocity v0 and
a distance b < a below the force center as shown.
1. Write down the equation
p of motion for r ≤ a in Cartesian coordinates in terms
of x, y, and ω = k/m
2. Give the trajectory of the particle when r < a.
3. For v0 = aω find the coordinates of the particle as it exits the region of non-zero
force field.
4. For v0 = aω, find the deflection angle θ of the departing velocity at the exit
point.

Problem 103. Three pendulums ID:CM-U-1532

Three identical pendulums are connected by the springs as shown on the figure. Find
the normal modes
Problem 104. A pendulum a spring and a block ID:CM-U-1552

A ball of mass m is hanging on a weightless spring of spring constant k, which is
attached to a block of mass M . The block can move along the table without friction.
The length of the unstretched spring is l0 . Find the normal modes of small oscillations.
Problem 105. A double pendulum ID:CM-U-1572

Find normal frequencies and normal modes of a double pendulum.

Problem 106. Springs on Rails ID:CM-U-1592

Three infinite horizontal rails are at distance l from each other. Three beads of equal
masses m can slide along the rails without friction. The three beads are connected
by identical springs of constants k and equilibrium/unstretched length l/2.
1. Find the normal modes and the normal frequencies.
2. At time t = 0 one of the masses is suddenly given a velocity v. What will be

the velocity of the whole system of three masses (average velocity) in the long
time?
Problem 107. Cylinders and a pendulum ID:CM-U-1612

A uniform solid cylinder of radius r and mass m can roll inside a hollow cylinder of
radius R > r without slipping. A pendulum of length l = R−r 2
and mass M = m/2
is attached to the center of the smaller cylinder. Find the normal frequencies and
normal modes of this system.

Problem 108. A rod and a pendulum ID:CM-U-1632

A uniform rod AB of mass M and length 3a can rotate around a point O, |AO| = a.
A pendulum of length l = a and mass m = 43 M is attached to the end A of the rod.
Find the normal frequencies and normal modes.
Problem 109. A coin ID:CM-U-1652

A uniform thin disc of mass m rolls without slipping on a horizontal plane. The disc
makes an angle α with the plane, the center of the disc C moves around the horizontal
circle with a constant speed v. The axis of symmetry of the disc CO intersects the
horizontal plane in the point O. The point O is stationary. Find the kinetic energy
of the disc.

Problem 110. A Rectangular Parallelepiped ID:CM-U-1672

A uniform Rectangular Parallelepiped of mass m and edges a, b, and c is rotating
with the constant angular velocity ω around an axis which coincides with the paral-
lelepiped’s large diagonal.
1. What is the parallelepiped’s kinetic energy?
2. What torque must be applied to the axis of rotation in order to keep the axis(!)
still? (neglect the gravity.)
Problem 111. A disk in a frame ID:CM-U-1692

A square weightless frame ABCD with the side a is rotating around the side AB
with the constant angular velocity ω1 . A uniform disk of radius R and mass m is
rotating around the frame’s diagonal AC with the constant angular velocity ω2 . The
center of the disk coincides with the center of the frame. Assuming ω1 = ω2 = ω find
1. The kinetic energy of the system.
2. The magnitude of the torque that needs to be applied to the axis AB to keep
it (the axis AB) still. (neglect the gravity.)

Problem 112. Collapse of a star ID:CM-U-1712

A very large number of small particles forms a spherical cloud. Initially they are at
rest, have uniform mass density per unit volume ρ0 , and occupy a region of radius r0 .
The cloud collapses due to gravitation; the particles do not interact with each other
in any other way. How much time passes until the cloud collapses fully?
Problem 113. A rod and a planet ID:CM-U-1732

Two small, equal masses are attached by a lightweight rod. This object orbits a planet;
the length of the rod is smaller than the radius of the orbit, but not negligible. The
rod rotates about its axis in such a way that it remains vertical with respect to the
planet.
1. Is there a force in the rod? If so, is it tension or compression?
2. Is the equilibrium stable, unstable, or neutral with respect to a small perturba-

tion in the angle of the rod? (Assume this perturbation maintains the rate of
rotation, so that in the co-rotating frame the rod is still stationary but at an
angle to the vertical.)


2 Graduate level
Problem 114. 1983-Fall-CM-G-4 ID:CM-G-2
A yo-yo (inner radius r, outer radius R) is resting on a horizontal table and is free to
roll. The string is pulled with a constant force F . Calculate the horizontal acceleration
and indicate its direction for three different choices of F . Assume the yo-yo maintains
contact with the table and can roll but does not slip.
1. F = F1 is horizontal,
2. F = F2 is vertical,
3. F = F3 (its line of action passes through the point of contact of the yo-yo and
table.)
Approximate the moment of inertia of the yo-yo about its symmetry axis by I =
1
2
M R2 here M is the mass of the yo-yo.

Assume that the earth is a sphere, radius R and uniform mass density, ρ. Suppose
a shaft were drilled all the way through the center of the earth from the north pole
to the south. Suppose now a bullet of mass m is fired from the center of the earth,
with velocity v0 up the shaft. Assuming the bullet goes beyond the earth’s surface,
calculate how far it will go before it stops.

Problem 116. 1983-Spring-CM-G-4 ID:CM-G-29

A simple Atwood’s machine consists of a heavy rope of length l and linear density ρ
hung over a pulley. Neglecting the part of the rope in contact with the pulley, write
down the Lagrangian. Determine the equation of motion and solve it. If the initial
conditions are ẋ = 0 and x = l/2, does your solution give the expected result?

A point mass m is constrained to move on a cycloid in a vertical plane as shown.
(Note, a cycloid is the curve traced by a point on the rim of a circle as the circle rolls
without slipping on a horizontal line.) Assume there is a uniform vertical downward
gravitational field and express the Lagrangian in terms of an appropriate generalized
coordinate. Find the frequency of small oscillations about the equilibrium point.


Two pendula made with massless strings of length l and masses m and 2m respectively
are hung from the ceiling. The two masses are also connected by a massless spring
with spring constant k. When the pendula are vertical the spring is relaxed. What
are the frequencies for small oscillations about the equilibrium position? Determine
the eigenvectors. How should you initially displace the pendula so that when they
are released, only one eigen frequency is excited. Make the sketches to specify these
initial positions for both eigen frequencies.

Consider a mass M which can slide without friction on a horizontal shelf. Attached
to it is a pendulum of length l and mass m. The coordinates of the center of mass of
the block M are (x, 0) and the position of mass m with respect to the center of mass
of M is given by (x0 , y 0 ). At t = 0 the mass M is at x = 0 and is moving with velocity
v, and the pendulum is at its maximum displacement θ0 . Consider the motion of the
system for small θ.
1. What are the etgenvalues. Give a physical interpretation of them.
2. Determine the eigenvectors.
3. Obtain the complete solution for x(t) and θ(t).


A ladder of length L and mass M rests against a smooth wall and slides without
friction on wall and floor. Initially the ladder is at rest at an angle α = α0 with
the floor. (For the ladder the moment of inertia about an axis perpendicular to and
1
through the center of the ladder is 12 M L2 ).
1. Write down the Lagrangian and Lagrange equations for α(t).
2. Find the first integral of motion in the angle α.
3. Determine the force exerted by the wall on the ladder as a function of α.
4. Determine the angle αc at which the ladder leaves the wall.

A rocket of mass m moves with initial velocity v0 towards the moon of mass M , radius
R. Take the moon to be at rest and neglect all other bodies.
1. Determine the maximum impact parameter for which the rocket will strike the
moon.
2. Determine the cross-section σ for striking the moon.
3. What is σ in the limit of infinite velocity v0 ?
The following information on hyperbolic orbits will be useful:
a(2 − 1) 2EL2
r= , 2 = 1 + ,
1 + cos θ G2 m3 M 2
where r is the distance from the center of force F to the rocket, θ is the angle from
the center of force, E is the rocket energy, L is angular momentum, and G is the
gravitational constant.


A mass m moves in two dimensions subject to the potential energy
kr2
1 + α cos2 θ

V (r, θ) =
2
1. Write down the Lagrangian and the Lagrange equations of motion.
2. Take α = 0 and consider a circular orbit of radius r0 . What is the frequency f0

of the orbital motion? Take θ0 (0) = 0 and determine θ0 (t).
3. Now take α nonzero but small, α 1; and consider the effect on the circular
orbit. Specifically, let
r(t) = r0 + δr(t) and θ(t) = θ0 (t) + δθ(t),
where θ0 (t) was determined in the previous part. Substitute these in the La-
grange equations and show that the differential equations for the δr(t) and δθ(t)
to the first order in δr, δθ and their derivatives are
2 2
˙ + αω r0 cos(ωt) + αω r0 = 0
¨ − ωr0 δθ
δr
8 8
2
r0 δθ ˙ − αω r0 sin(ωt) = 0,
¨ + ω δr (1)
8
p
where ω = 2 k/m.

4. Solve these differential equations to obtain δr(t) and δθ(t). For initial conditions
take
˙
δr(0) = δr(0) ˙
= δθ(0) = δθ(0) =0
The solutions correspond to sinusoidal oscillations about the circular orbit. How
does the frequency of these oscillations compare to the frequency of the orbital
motion, f0 ?

A ring of mass m slides over a rod with mass M and length L, which is pivoted at
one end and hangs vertically. The mass m is secured to the pivot point by a massless
spring of spring constant k and unstressed length l. For θ = 0 and at equilibrium m
is centered on the rod. Consider motion in a single vertical plane under the influence
of gravity.
1. Show that the potential energy is

k 1
V = (r − L/2)2 + mgr(1 − cos θ) − M gL cos θ.
2 2
2. Write the system Lagrangian in terms of r and θ.
3. Obtain the differential equations of motion for r and θ.
4. In the limit of small oscillations find the normal mode frequencies. To what
physical motions do these frequencies correspond?

A system consists of a point particle of mass m and a streight uniform rod of length l
and mass m on a frictionless horizontal table. A rigid frictionless vertical axle passes
through one end of the rod.
The rod is originally at rest and the point particle is moving horizontally toward
the end of the rod with a speed v and in a direction perpendicular tot he rod as shown
in the figure. When the particle collides with the end of the rod they stick together.

1. Discuss the relevance of each of the following conservation laws for the system:
conservation of kinetic energy, conservation of linear momentum, and conserva-
tion of angular momentum.
2. Find the resulting motion of the combined rod and particle following the colli-
sion (i.e., what is ω of the system after the collision?)
3. Describe the average force of the rod on the vertical axle during the collision.
4. Discuss the previous three parts for the case in which the frictionless vertical
axle passes through the center of the rod rather than the end.

Consider a motion of a point particle of mass m in a central force F~ = −k~r, where k
is a constant and ~r is the position vector of the particle.
1. Show that the motion will be in a plane.
2. Using cylindrical coordinates with ẑ perpendicular to the plane of motion, find

the Lagrangian for the system.
3. Show that Pθ is a constant of motion and equal to the magnitude of the angular
momentum L.
4. Find and describe the motion of the particle for a specific case L = 0.

A disk is rigidly attached to an axle passing through its center so that the disc’s
symmetry axis n̂ makes an angle θ with the axle. The moments of inertia of the disc
relative to its center are C about the symmetry axis n̂ and A about any direction n̂0
perpendicular to n̂. The axle spins with constant angular velocity ω
~ = ωẑ (ẑ is a unit
vector along the axle.) At time t = 0, the disk is oriented such that the symmetry
axis lies in the X − Z plane as shown.
~
1. What is the angular momentum, L(t), expressed in the space-fixed frame.

2. Find the torque, ~τ (t), which must be exerted on the axle by the bearings which
support it. Specify the components of ~τ (t) along the space-fixed axes.

Particle 1 (mass m1 , incident velocity ~v1 ) approaches a system of masses m2 and
m3 = 2m2 , which are connected by a rigid, massless rod of length l and are initially
at rest. Particle 1 approaches in a direction perpendicular to the rod and at time
t = 0 collides head on (elastically) with particle 2.
1. Determine the motion of the center of mass of the m1 -m2 -m3 system.
2. Determine ~v1 and ~v2 , the velocities of m1 and m2 the instant following the
collision.
3. Determine the motion of the center of mass of the m2 -m3 system before and
4. Determine the motion m2 and m3 relative to their center of mass after the
collision.
5. For a certain value of m1 , there will be a second collision between m1 and m2 .
Determine that value of m1 .

A bead slides without friction on a wire in the shape of a cycloid:
x = a(θ − sin θ)
y = a(1 + cos θ)
1. Write down the Hamiltonian of the system.

2. Derive Hamiltonian’s equations of motion.


A dumbell shaped satellite moves in a circular orbit around the earth. It has been
given just enough spin so that the dumbell axis points toward the earth. Show that
this orientation of the satellite axis is stable against small perturbations in the orbital
plane. Calculate the frequency ω of small oscillations about this stable orientation
and compare ω to the orbital frequency Ω = 2π/T , where T is the orbital period.
The satellite consists of two point masses m each connected my massless rod of length
2a and orbits at a distance R from the center of the earth. Assume throughout that
a R.

A block of mass m rests on a wedge of mass M which, in turn, rests on a horizontal
table as shown. All surfaces are frictionless. The system starts at rest with point P
of the block a distance h above the table.
1. Find the velocity V of the wedge the instant point P touches the table.
2. Find the normal force between the block and the wedge.

Kepler’s Second law of planetary motion may be stated as follows, “The radius vector
drawn from the sun to any planet sweeps out equal areas in equal times.” If the force
law between the sun and each planet were not inverse square law, but an inverse cube
law, would the Kepler’s Second Law still hold? If your answer is no, show how the
law would have to be modified.

Assume that the sun (mass M ) is surrounded by a uniform spherical cloud of dust
of density ρ. A planet of mass m moves in an orbit around the sun withing the dust
cloud. Neglect collisions between the planet and the dust.
1. What is the angular velocity of the planet when it moves in a circular orbit of
radius r?
2. Show that if the mass of the dust within the sphere of the radius r is small
compared to M , a nearly circular orbit will precess. Find the angular velocity
of the precession.


A uniform solid cylinder of radius r and mass m is given an initial angular velocity
ω0 and then dropped on a flat horizontal surface. The coefficient of kinetic friction
between the surface and the cylinder is µ. Initially the cylinder slips, but after a time
t pure rolling without slipping begins. Find t and vf , where vf is the velocity of the
center of mass at time t.

A satellite is in a circular orbit of radius r0 about the earth. Its rocket motor fires
briefly, giving a tangential impulse to the rocket. This impulse increases the velocity
of the rocket by 8% in the direction of its motion at the instant of the impulse.
1. Find the maximum distance from the earth’s center for the satellite in its new
orbit. (NOTE: The equation for the path of a body under the influence of a
central force, F (r), is:
d2 u m
2
+ u = − 2 2 F (1/u),
dθ Lu
where u = 1/r, L is the orbital angular momentum, and m is the mass of the
body.
2. Determine the one-dimensional effective potential for this central force prob-
lem. Sketch the two effective potentials for this problem, before and after this
impulse, on the same graph. Be sure to clearly indicate the differences between
them in your figure

A cylindrical pencil of length l, mass m and diameter small compared to its length
rests on a horizontal frictionless surface. This pencil is initially motionless.At t=0, a
large, uniform, horizontal impulsive force F lasting a time ∆t is applied to the end
of the pencil in a direction perpendicular to the pencil’s long dimension. This time
interval is sufficiently short, that we may neglect any motion of the system during
the application of this impulse. For convenience, consider that the center-of-mess of
the pencil is initially located at the origin of the x − y plane with the long dimension
of the pencil parallel to the x-axis. In terms of F , ∆t, l, and m answer the following:

1. Find the expression for the position of the center-of-mass of the pencil as a
function of the time, t, after the application of the impulse.
2. Calculate the time necessary for the pencil to rotate through an angle of π/2
radians.

Consider the motion of a rod, whose ends can slide freely on a smooth vertical circular
ring, the ring being free to rotate about its vertical diameter, which is fixed. Let m
be the mass of the rod and 2a its length; let M be the mass of the ring and r its
radius; let θ be the inclination of the rod to the horizontal, and φ the azimuth of the
ring referred to some fixed vertical plane, at any time t.
1. Calculate the moment of inertia of the rod about an axis through the center of
the ring perpendicular to its plane, in terms of r, a, and m.
2. Calculate the moment of inertia of the rod about the vertical diameter, in terms
of r, a, m, and θ.
3. Set up the Lagrangian.
4. Find which coordinate is ignorable (i.e., it does not occur in the Lagrangian)
and use this result to simplify the Lagrange equations of motion of θ and φ.
Show that θ and φ are separable but do not try to integrate this equation.
5. Is the total energy of the system a constant of motion? (justify your answer)


Consider a particle of mass m interacting with an attractive central force field of the
form
α
V (r) = − 4 , α > 0.
r
The particle begins its motion very far away from the center of force, moving with a
speed v0 .
1. Find the effective potential Vef f for this particle as a function of r, the im-
pact parameter b, and the initial kinetic energy E0 = 12 mv02 . (Recall that Vef f
includes the centrifugal effect of the angular momentum.)
2. Draw a qualitative graph of Vef f as a function of r. (Your graph need not show
the correct behavior for the special case b = 0.) Determine the value(s) of r at
any special points associated with the graph.
3. Find the cross section for the particle to spiral in all the way to the origin.

A particle of mass m is constrained to move on the surface of a cylinder with radius
R. The particle is subject only to a force directed toward the origin and proportional
to the distance of the particle from the origin.
1. Find the equations of motion for the particle and solve for Φ(t) and z(t).
2. The particle is now placed in a uniform gravitational field parallel to the ax is

of the cylinder. Calculate the resulting motion.


A photon of energy Eγ collides with an electron initially at rest and scatters off at an
angle φ as shown. Let me c2 be the rest mass energy of the electron. Determine the
energy Ēγ of the scattered photon in terms of the incident photon energy Eγ , electron
rest mass energy me c2 , and scattering angle φ. Treat the problem relativistically.

A bar of negligible weight is suspended by two massless rods of length a. From it are
hanging two identical pendula with mass m and length l. All motion is confined to a
plane. Treat the motion in the small oscillation approximation. (Hint: use θ, θ1 , and
θ2 as generalized coordinates.)
1. Find the normal mode frequencies of the system.
2. Find the eigenvector corresponding to the lowest frequency of the system.
3. Describe physically the motion of the system oscillating at its lowest frequency.


A spherical pendulum consisting of a particle of mass m in a gravitational field is
constrained to move on the surface of a sphere of radius R. Describe its motion in
terms of the polar angle θ, measured from the vertical axis, and the azimuthal angle
φ.
1. Obtain the equation of motion.
2. Identify the effective Potential Vef f (θ), and sketch it for Lφ > 0 and for Lφ = 0.
(Lφ is the azimuthal angular momentum.)
3. Obtain the energy E0 and the azimuthal angular velocity φ̇0 corresponding to
uniform circular motion around the vertical axis, in terms of θ0 .
4. Given the angular velocity φ̇0 an energy slightly greater than E0 , the mass will
undergo simple harmonic motion in θ about θ0 . Find the frequency of this
oscillation in θ.

A particle of mass m slides down from the top of a frictionless parabolic surface which
is described by y = −αx2 , where α > 0. The particle has a negligibly small initial
velocity when it is at the top of the surface.
1. Use the Lagrange formulation and the Lagrange multiplier method for the con-
straint to obtain the equations of motion.
2. What are the constant(s) of motion of this problem?
3. Find the components of the constraint force as functions of position only on the
surface.
4. Assume that the mass is released at t = 0 from the top of the surface, how long
will it take for the mass to drop off the surface?

A particle of mass m moves on the inside surface of a smooth cone whose axis is vertical
and whose half-angle is α. Calculate the period of the horizontal circular orbits and
the period of small oscillations about this orbit as a function of the distance h above
the vertex. When are the perturbed orbits closed?

A simple pendulum of length l and mass m is suspended from a point P that rotates
with constant angular velocity ω along the circumference of a vertical circle of radius
a.
1. Find the Hamiltonian function and the Hamiltonian equation of motion for this
system using the angle θ as the generalized coordinate.

2. Do the canonical momentum conjugate to θ and the Hamiltonian function in

this case correspond to physical quantities? If so, what are they?

Three particles of masses m1 = m0 , m2 = m0 , and m3 = m0 /3 are restricted to move
in circles of radius a, 2a, and 3a respectively. Two ideal springs of natural length
much smaller than a and force constant k link particles 1, 2 and particles 2, 3 as
shown.
1. Determine the Lagrangian of this system in terms of polar angles θ1 , θ2 , θ3 and

parameters m0 , a, and k.
2. For small oscillations about an equilibrium

p position, determine the system’s
normal mode frequencies in term of ω0 = k/m0 .
3. Determine the normalized eigenvector corresponding to each normal mode and

describe their motion physically.
4. What will happen if the natural length of the springs is a?


A particle is constrained to move on a cylindrically symmetric surface of the form
z = (x2 + y 2 )/(2a). The gravitational force acts in the −z direction.
1. Use generalized coordinates with cylindrical symmetry to incorporate the con-

straint and derive the Lagrangian for this system.
2. Derive the Hamiltonian function, Hamilton’s equation, and identify any con-
served quantity and first integral of motion.
3. Find the radius r0 of a steady state motion in r having angular momentum l.
4. Find the frequency of small radial oscillations about this steady state.

1. What is the most general equation of motion of a point particle in an inertial
frame?
2. Qualitatively, how does the equation of motion change for an observer in an

accelerated frame (just name the different effects and state their qualitative
form).
3. Give a general class of forces for which you can define a Lagrangian.
4. Specifically, can you define a Lagrangian for the forces
F~1 = (ax, 0, 0), F~2 = (ay, 0, 0), F~3 = (ay, ax, 0).
Why or why not?


A spherical pendulum consists of a particle of mass m in a gravitational field con-
strained to move on the surface of a sphere of radius R. Use the polar angle θ,
measured down from the vertical axis, and azimuthal angle φ.
1. Obtain the equations of motion using Lagrangian formulation.
2. Identify the egective potential, Vef f (θ), and sketch it for the angular momentum
Lφ > 0, and for Lφ = 0.
3. Obtain the values of E0 and φ̇0 in terms of θ0 for uniform circular mutton around
the vertical axis.
4. Given the angular velocity φ̇0 and an energy slightly greater than E0 , the mass
will undergo simple harmonic motion in θ about, θ0 . Expand Vef f (θ) in a Taylor
series to determine the frequency of oscillation in θ.

A particle of mass m is moving
P on a sphere of radius a, in the presence of a velocity
dependent potential U = i=1,2 q̇i Ai , where q1 = θ and q2 = φ are the generalized
coordinates of the particle and A1 ≡ Aθ , A2 ≡ Aφ are given functions of θ and φ.
1. Calculate the generalized force defined by

d ∂U ∂U
Qi = − .
dt ∂ q̇i ∂qi
2. Write down the Lagrangian and derive the equation of motion in terms of θ and
φ.
3. For Aθ = 0, Aφ = ag 1−cos
sin θ
θ
, where g is a constant, describe the symmetry of the
Lagrangian and find the corresponding conserved quantity. (Can you figure out
what is the magnetic field in this case?)
4. In terms of three dimensional Cartesian coordinates, i.e., qi = xi show that Qi

can be written as Q~ = ~v × B,
~ where vi = ẋi . Find B
~ in terms of A.
~

A particle of charge q and mass m moving in a uniform constant magnetic field B
(magnetic field is along z-axis) can be described in cylindrical coordinates by the
Lagrangian
mh 2 i q
L= ṙ + r2 θ̇2 + ż 2 + Br2 θ̇
2 2c
1. In cylindrical coordinates find the Hamiltonian, Hamilton’s equations of motion,
and the resulting constants of motion.

2. Assuming r = const. ≡ r0 , solve the equations of motion and find the action
variable Jθ (conjugate generalized momentum) corresponding to θ.

Three particles each of equal mass m are connected by four massless springs and al-
lowed to move along a straight line as shown in the figure. Each spring has unstretched
length equal to l and spring constants shown in the figure.
1. Solve the problem for small vibrations of the masses, i.e., determine the normal
frequencies and the normal modes (amplitudes) of the vibrations. Also indicate
each normal mode in a figure.
2. Consider the following two cases with large amplitude: (i) The first case where
the masses and springs can freely pass through each other and through the
left and right, boundary; and (ii) the second case where the masses and the
boundaries are inpenetrable, i.e., the mass can not pass through each other or
through the boundaries. Explain whether the small vibration solution obtained
in a previous part is also the general solution for the motion in either of the two
cases.
Problem 152. 1993-Fall-CM-G-3.jpg ID:CM-G-578

A uniform smooth rod AB, of mass M hangs from two fixed supports C and D by
light inextensible strings AC and BD each of length l, as shown in the figure. The
rod is horizontal and AB = CD = L l. A bead of mass m is located at the center
of the rod and can slide freely on the rod. Let θ be the inclination of the strings to
the vertical, and let x be the distance of the bead from the end of the rod (A). The
initial condition is θ = α < π/2, θ̇ = 0, x = L/2, and ẋ = 0. Assume the system
moves in the plane of the figure.
1. Obtain the Lagrangian L = L(θ, θ̇, x, ẋ) and write down the Lagrange’s equa-
tions of motion for x and θ.
2. Obtain the first integrals of the Lagrange’s equations of the motion for x and θ
subject to the initial condition.
3. Find the speeds of the bead and the rod at θ = 0.

Problem 153. 1993-Spring-CM-G-4.jpg ID:CM-G-597

Because of the gravitational attraction of the earth, the cross section for collisions
with incident asteroids or comets is larger than πRe2 where Re is the physical radius
of the earth.
1. Write the Lagrangian and derive the equations of motion for an incident object
of mass m. (For simplicity neglect the gravitational fields of the sun and the
other planets and assume that the mass of the earth, M is much larger than
m.)
2. Calculate the effective collisional radius of the earth, R, for an impact by an

incident body with mass, m, and initial velocity v, as shown, starting at a
point far from the earth where the earth’s gravitational field is negligibly small.
Sketch the paths of the incident body if it starts from a point 1) with b < Re 2)
with b Re , and 3) at the critical distance R. (Here b is the impact parameter.)
3. What is the value of R if the initial velocity relative to the earth is v = 0? What
is the probability of impact in this case?

Consider a particle of mass m constrained to move on the surface of a cone of half
angle β, subject to a gravitational force in the negative z-direction. (See figure.)
1. Construct the Lagrangian in terms of two generalized coordinates and their time
derivatives.
2. Calculate the equations of motion for the particle.
3. Show that the Lagrangian is invariant under rotations around the z-axis, and,
calculate the corresponding conserved quantity.


Solve for the motion of the vector M = ~r × P , where P~ is the generalized momentum,
~ ~
for the case when the Hamiltonian is H = −γ M ~ ·H
~ + P 2 /2m, where γ and H ~ are
constant. Describe your solution.

A particle is constrained to move on the frictionless surface of a sphere of radius R
in a uniform gravitational field of strength g.
1. Find the equations of motion for this particle.
2. Find the motion in orbits that differ from horizontal circles by small non-
vanishing amounts. In particular, find the frequencies in both azimuth φ and
co-latitude θ. Are these orbits closed? (φ and θ are the usual spherical angles
when the positive z axis is oriented in the direction of the gravitational field ~g .)
3. Suppose the particle to be moving in a circular orbit with kinetic energy T0 . If
the strength g of the gravitational field is slowly and smoothly increased until
it, reaches the value g1 , what is the new value of the kinetic energy?


A particle of mass m moves under the influence of an attractive central force F (r) =
−k/r3 , k > 0. Far from the center of force, the particle has a kinetic energy E.
1. Find the values of the impact parameter b for which the particle reaches r = 0.
2. Assume that the initial conditions are such that the particle misses r = 0. Solve
for the scattering angle θs , as a function of E and the impact parameter b.

A bead slides without friction on a stiff wire of shape r(z) = az n , with z > 0,
0 < n < 1, which rotates about the vertical z axis with angular frequency ω, as
shown in the figure.
1. Derive the Lagrange equation of motion for the bead.
2. If the bead follows a horizontal circular trajectory, find the height z0 in terms
of n, a, ω, and the gravitational acceleration g.
3. Find the conditions for stability of such circular trajectories.
4. For a trajectory with small oscillations in the vertical direction, find the angular
frequency of the oscillations, ω 0 , in terms of n, a, z0 , and ω.
5. What conditions are required for closed trajectories of the bead?

Consider two point particles each of mass m, sliding on a circular ring of radius R.
They are connected by springs of spring constant k which also slide on the ring. The
equilibrium length of each spring is half the circumference of the ring. Ignore gravity
and friction.
1. Write down the Lagrangian of the system with the angular positions of the two
particles as coordinates. (assume only motions for which the two mass points
do not meet or pass.)

2. By a change of variables reduce this, essentially, to a one-body problem. Plus

what?
3. Write down the resulting equation of motion and give the form of the general
solution.

A simple pendulum of length l and mass m is attached to s block of mass M , which
is free to slide without friction in a horizontal direction. All motion is confined to a
plane. The pendulum is displaced by a small angle θ0 and released.
1. Choose a convenient set of generalized coordinates and obtain Lagrange’s equa-
tions of motion. What are the constants of motion?
2. Make the small angle approximation (sin θ ≈ θ, cos θ ≈ 1) and solve the equa-
tions of motion. What is the frequency of oscillation of the pendulum, and what
is the magnitude of the maximum displacement of the block from its initial po-
sition?


Consider a system of two point-like weights, each of mass M , connected by a massless
rigid rod of length l . The upper weight slides on a horizontal frictionless rail and is
connected to a horizontal spring, with spring constant k, whose other end is fixed to
a wall as shown below. The lower weight swings on the rod, attached to the upper
weight and its motion is confined to the vertical plane.
1. Find the exact equations of motion of the system.
2. Find the frequencies of small amplitude oscillation of the system.
3. Describe qualitatively the modes of small oscillations associated with the fre-
quencies you found in the previous part.

A gyrocompass is located at a latitude β. It is built of a spherical gyroscope (moment
of inertia I) whose rotation axis is constrained to the plane tangent to Earth as shown
in the figure. Let the deflection of the gyro’s axis eastward from the north be denoted
by φ and the angle around its rotation axis by θ. Angular frequency of earth’s rotation
is ωE .
~ of the gyro in the reference
1. Write the components of the total angular velocity Ω
frame of the principal axes of its moment of inertia attached to the gyro.
2. Write the Lagrangian L(φ, φ̇, θ, θ̇) for the rotation of the gyrocompass.
3. Write the exact equations of motion and solve them for φ 1. (Hint: You may
use Euler-Lagrange equations, or Euler’s dynamical equations for rigid body
rotation)
4. Calculate the torque that must be exerted on the gyro to keep it in the plane.


Find the curve joining two points, along which a particle falling from rest under
the influence of gravity travels from the higher to the lower point in the least time.
Assume that there ts no friction. (Hint: Solve for the horizontal coordinate y as a
function of the vertical coordinate x.)

Two masses M and m are connected through a small hole in a vertical wall by
an arbitrarily (infinitely) long massless rope, as shown in the figure. The mass M
is constrained to move along the vertical line, while the mass m is constrained to
move along one side of the wall. Energy is conserved st all times. The (vertical)
gravitational acceleration is g. You are required to:
1. Construct the Lagrangian and the second order equations of motion in the
variables (r, θ).
2. The general solution of these equations of motion is very complicated. However,

you are asked to determine only those solutions of the equations of motion for
which the angular momentum of the mass m is constant. Comment on any
additional information you may need in order to complete these solutions for all
times. Given the initial condition r0 = A, θ0 = π, ṙ0 = 0, and θ̇0 = 0, determine
the motion of the mass m assuming that at r = 0 its momentum
(a) reverses itself or

(b) remains unchanged. How does the nature of the motion in this case depend
on the mass ratio µ ≡ M/m?


A particle of mass m moves under the influence of a central attractive force
k −r/a
F =− e
r2
1. Determine the condition on the constant a such that circular motion of a given
radius r0 will be stable.
2. Compute the frequency of small oscillations about such a stable circular motion.

A soap film is stretched over 2 coaxial circular loops of radius R, separated by a
distance 2H. Surface tension (energy per unit area, or force per unit length) in the
film is τ =const. Gravity is neglected.
1. Assuming that the soap film takes en axisymmetric shape, such as illustrated
in the figure, find the equation for r(z) of the soap film, with r0 (shown in the
figure) as the only parameter. (Hint: You may use either variational calculus
or a simple balance of forces to get a differential equation for r(z)).
2. Write a transcendental equation relating r0 , R and H, determine approximately
and graphically the maximum ratio (H/R)c , for which a solution of the first part
exists. If you find that multiple solutions exist when H/R < (H/R)c , use a good
physical argument to pick out the physically acceptable one.

3. What shape does the soap film assume for H/R > (H/R)c ?
Problem 167. May the Force be with you ID:CM-G-806

A soap film is stretched over 2 coaxial circular loops of radius R, separated by a
distance 2H. Surface tension (energy per unit area, or force per unit length) in the
film is τ =const. Gravity is neglected.
1. Assuming that the soap film takes en axisymmetric shape, such as illustrated
in the figure, find the equation for r(z) of the soap film, with r0 (shown in the
figure) as the only parameter. (Hint: You may use either variational calculus
or a simple balance of forces to get a differential equation for r(z)).
2. Write a transcendental equation relating r0 , R and H, determine approximately
and graphically the maximum ratio (H/R)c , for which a solution of the first part
exists. If you find that multiple solutions exist when H/R < (H/R)c , use a good
physical argument to pick out the physically acceptable one.
3. Compute the force required to hold the loops apart at distance 2H.


A particle of mass m slides inside a smooth hemispherical cup under the influence
of gravity, as illustrated. The cup has radius a. The particle’s angular position is
determined by polar angle θ (measured from the negative vertical axis) and azimuthal
angle φ.
1. Write down the Lagrangian for the particle and identify two conserved quanti-
ties.
2. Find a solution where θ = θ0 is constant and determine the angular frequency
φ̇ = ω0 for the motion.
3. Now suppose that the particle is disturbed slightly so that θ = θ0 + α and
ω = ω0 + β, where α and β are small time-dependent quantities. Find the
frequency of the small oscillation in θ that the particle undergoes.
Hint: Follow the standard route: Find the equation of motion for θ. Find
conserving quantities, energy and angular momentum. Exclude the angular
momentum from the equation of motion and get the effective potential for θ.
Check that for equilibrium, the value of θ coincides with the one following
from the elementary physics. Expand the potential, and find the frequency of
oscillations in the effective potential.

A particle of mass m moves under the influence of a central force given by
α β
F~ = − 2 r̂ − r̂,
r mr3
where α and β are real, positive constants.
1. For what values of orbital angular momentum L are circular orbits possible?

2. Find the angular frequency of small radial oscillations about these circular or-
bits.
3. In the case of L = 2 units of angular momentum, for what value (or values) of
β is the orbit with small radial oscillations closed?

A particle of mass m moves under the influence of a central force with potential
V (r) = α log(r), α > 0.
1. For a given angular momentum L, find the radius of the circular orbit.
2. Find the angular frequency of small radial oscillations about this circular orbit.
3. Is the resulting orbit closed? Reason.

A hoop of mass m and radius R rolls without slipping down an inclined plane of mass
M and angle of incline α. The inclined plane is resting on a frictionless, horizontal
surface. The system is a rest at t = 0 with the hoop making contact at the very top
of the incline. The initial position of the inclined plane is X(0) = X0 as shown in the
figure.
1. Find Lagrange’s equations for this system.
2. Determine the position of the hoop, x(t), and the plane, X(t), afier the system
is released at t = 0.

Consider two identical “dumbbells”, as illustrated below. Initially the springs are
unstretched, the left dumbbell is moving with velocity v0 , and the right dumbbell is
at rest. The left dumbbell then collides elastically with the right dumbbell at time
t = t0 . The system is essentially one-dimensional.

1. Qualitatively trace the time-evolution of the system, indicating the internal and
centers-of-mass motions.
2. Find the maximal compressions of the springs.
3. Give the time at which the maximal spring-compresstons occur, and any other
relevant times.

Two simple pendula of equal length l and equal mass m are connected by a spring of
force-constant k, as shown in the sketch below.
1. Find the eigenfrequencies of motion for small oscillations of the system when
the force F = 0.
2. Derive the time dependence of the angular displacements θ1 (t) and θ2 (t) of both
pendula if a force F = F0 cos ωt acts on the left pendulum only, and ω is not
equal to either of the eigenfrequencies. The initial conditions are θ1 (0) = θ0 ,
θ2 (0) = 0, and θ̇1 (0) = θ̇2 (0) = 0, where θ̇ ≡ dθ/qt. (Note that there are no
dissipative forces acting.)


The curve illustrated below is a parametric two dimensional curve (not a three di-
mensional helix). Its coordinates x(τ ) and y(τ ) are
x = a sin(τ ) + bτ
y = −a cos(τ ),
where a and b are constant, with a > b. A particle of mass m slides without friction
on the curve. Assume that gravity acts vertically, giving the particle the potential
energy V = mgy.
1. Write down the Lagrangian for the particle on the curve in terms of the single
generalized coordinate τ .
2. From the Lagrangian, find pτ , the generalized momentum corresponding to the
parameter τ .
3. Find the Hamiltonian in terms of the generalized coordinate and momentum.
4. Find the two Hamiltonian equations of motion for the particle from your Hamil-
tonian.

The illustrated system consists of rings of mass m which slide without friction on
vertical rods with uniform spacing d. The rings are connected by identical massless
springs which have tension T , taken to be constant for small ring displacements.
Assume that the system is very long in both directions.
1. Write down an equation of motion for the vertical displacement qi of the ith
ring, assuming that the displacements are small.
2. Solve for traveling wave solutions for this system; find the limiting wave velocity
as the wave frequency tends toward zero.


1. For relativistic particles give a formula for the relationship between the total
energy E, momentum P , rest mass m0 , and c, the velocity of light.
2. A particle of mass M , initially at rest, decays into two particles of rest masses
m1 and m2 . What is the final total energy of the particle m1 after the decay?
Note: make no assumptions about the relative magnitudes of m1 , m2 , and M
other than 0 ≤ m1 + m2 < M .
3. Now assume that a particle of mass M , initially at rest, decays into three
particles of rest masses m1 , m2 , and m3 . Use your result from the previous part
to determine the maximum possible total energy of the particle m1 after the
decay. Again, make no assumptions about the relative magnitudes of m1 , m2 ,
m3 , and M other than 0 ≤ m1 + m2 + m3 < M .

Two hard, smooth identical billiard balls collide on a tabletop. Ball A is moving
initially with velocity v0 , while rolling without slipping. Bail B is initially stationary.
During the elastic collision, friction between the two balls and with the tabletop can
be neglected, so that no rotation is transferred from ball A to bail B, and both balls
are sliding immediately after the collision. Ball A is also rotating. Both balls have
the same mass.
Data: Solid sphere principal moment of inertia = (2/5)M R2 .
1. If ball B leaves the collision at angle θ from the initial path of ball A, find the
speed of ball B, and the speed and direction of ball A, immediately after the
collision.
2. Assume a kinetic coefficient of friction µ between the billiard balls and the table
(and gravity acts with acceleration g). Find the time required for ball B to stop
sliding, and its final speed.
3. Find the direction and magnitude of the friction force on ball A immediately

A mass m moves on a smooth, frictionless horizontal table. It is attached by a
massless string of constant length l = 2πa to a point Q0 of an immobile cylinder. At
time t0 = 0 the mass at point P is given an initial velocity v0 at right angle to the
extended string, so that it wraps around the cylinder. At a later time t, the mass has
moved so that the contact point Q with the cylinder has moved through an angle θ,
as shown. The mass finally reaches point Q0 at time tf .
1. Is kinetic energy constant? Why or why not?

2. Is the angular momentum about O, the center of the cylinder, conserved? Why
or why not?
3. Calculate as a function of θ, the speed of the contact point Q, as it moves

around the cylinder. Then calculate the time it takes mass m to move from
point P to point Q0 .
4. Calculate the tension T in the string as a function of m, v, θ, and a.
5. By integrating the torque due to T about O over the time it lakes mass m to
move from point P to point Q0 , show that the mass’s initial angular momentum
mv0 l is reduced to zero when the mass reaches point Q0 . Hint: evaluate
Z tf Z 2π
Γ
Γdt = dθ.
0 0 dθ/dt
6. What is the velocity (direction and magnitude) of m when it hits Q0 ?
7. What is the tension T when the mass hits Q0 ?
You may wish to use the (x, y) coordinate system shown.

A mass m is attached to the top of a slender massless stick of length l. The stick
stands vertically on a rough ramp inclined at an angle of 45◦ to the horizontal. The
static coefficient of friction between the tip of the stick and the ramp ts precisely 1
so the mass + stick will just balance vertically, in unstable equilibrium, on the ramp.
Assume normal gravitational acceleration, g, in the downward direction. The mass is
given a slight push to the right, so that the mass + stick begins to fall to the right.
1. When the stick is inclined at an angle θ to the vertical, as illustrated below,

then what are the components of mg directed along the stick and perpendicular
to the stick?

2. If the stick does not slip, then what is the net force exerted upward by the ramp
on the lower tip of the stick? (Hint: Use conservation of energy to determine
the radial acceleration of the mass.)
3. Can the ramp indeed exert this force? (Hint: Consider the components normal
and perpendicular to the ramp.)
4. At what angle θ does the ramp cease to exert a force on the stick?

A small satellite, which you may assume to be massless, carries two hollow antennae,
each of mass m and length 2R, lying one within the other as shown in Fig. A below.
The far ends of the two antennae are connected by a massless spring of strength
constant k and natural length 2R. The satellite and the two antennae are spinning
about their common center with an initial angular speed ω0 . A massless motor forces
the two antennae to extend radially outward from the satellite, symmetrically in
opposite directions, at constant speed v0 .
1. Set up the Lagrangian for the system and find the equations of motion.
2. Show that it is possible to choose k so that no net work is done by the motor
that drives out the antennae, while moving the two antennae from their initial
position to their final fully extended position shown in Fig. B below. Determine
this value of k.


A one-dimensional coupled oscillator system is constructed as illustrated: the three
ideal, massless springs have equal spring constants k, the two masses m are equal, and
the system is assembled so that it is in equilibrium when the springs are unstretched.
The masses are constrained to move along the axis of the springs only. An external
oscillating force acting along the axis of the springs and with a magnitude < (F eiωt )
is applied to the left mass, with F a constant, while the right mass experiences no
external force.
1. Solve first for the unforced (F = 0) behavior of the system: set up the equations
of motion and solve for the two normal mode eigenvectors and frequencies.
2. Now find the steady-state oscillation at frequency ω vs. time for the forced
oscillations. Do this for each of the two masses, as a function of the applied
frequency ω and the force constant F .
3. For one specific frequency, there is s solution to the previous part for which
the left mass does not move. Specify this frequency and give a simple physical
explanation of the motion in this special case that would make the frequency,
the external oscillating force, and the motion as a whole understandable to a
freshman undergraduate mechanics student.


A particle of mass m is observed to move in a central field following a planar orbit
(in the x − y plane) given by.
r = r0 e−θ ,
where r and θ are coordinates of the particle in a polar coordinate system.
1. Prove that, at any instant in time, the particle trajectory is at an angle of 45◦
to the radial vector.
2. When the particle is at r = r0 it is seen to have an angular velocity Ω > 0.

Find the total energy of the particle and the potential energy function V (r),
assuming that V → 0 as r → +∞.
3. Determine how long it will take the particle to spiral in from r = r0 , to r = 0.

Consider the motion of a rigid body. x̂-ŷ-ẑ describe a right-handed coordinate system
that is fixed in the rigid body frame and has its origin at the center-of-mass of the
body. Furthermore, the axes are oriented so that the inertial tensor is diagonal in the
x̂-ŷ-ẑ frame:  
Ix 0 0
I =  0 Iy 0  .
0 0 Iz
The angular velocity of the rigid body is gives by.
ω
~ = ωx x̂ + ωy ŷ + ωz ẑ
1. Give the equations that describe the time-dependence of ω

~ when the rigid body
is subjected to en arbitrary torque.
2. Prove the ”Tennis Racket Theorem”: if the rigid body is undergoing torque-free
motion and its moments of inertia obey Ix < Iy < Iz , then:
(a) rotations about the x-axis are stable, and

(b) rotations about the z-axis are stable, but
(c) rotations about the y-axis are unstable.
Note: By “stable about the x-axis”, we mean that, if at t = 0, ωy ωx and ωz ωx ,

then this condition will also be obeyed at any later time.


Particles are scattered classically by a potential:

U (1 − r2 /a2 ), for r ≤ a
V (r) = , U is a constant.
0, for r > a
Assume that U > 0. A particle of mass m is coming in from the left with initial
velocity v0 and impact parameter b < a. Hint: work in coordinates (x, y) not (r, φ).
1. What are the equations of motion for determining the trajectory x(t) and y(t)
when r < a?
2. Assume that at t = 0 the particle is at the boundary of the potential r = a.
Solve your equations from the previous part to find the trajectory x(t) and y(t)
for the time period when r < a. Express your answer in terms of sinh and cosh
functions.
3. For initial energy 12 mv02 = U , find the scattering angle θ as function of b.

A rigid rod of length a and mass m is suspended by equal massless threads of length
L fastened to its ends. While hanging at rest, it receives a small impulse J~ = J0 ŷ at
one end, in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the rod and to the thread. It then
undergoes a small oscillation in the x − y plane. Calculate the normal frequencies
and the amplitudes of the associated normal modes in the subsequent motion.


A uniform, solid sphere (mass m, radius R, moment of inertia I = 25 mR2 sits on a
uniform, solid block of mass m (same mass as the solid sphere). The block is cut
in the shape of a right triangle, so that it forms an inclined plane at an angle θ,
as shown. Initially, both the sphere and the block are at rest. The block is free to
slide without fiction on the horizontal surface shown. The solid sphere rolls down the
inclined plane without slipping. Gravity acts uniformly downward, with acceleration
g. Take the x and y axes to be horizontal and vertical, respectively, as shown in the
figure.
1. Find the x and y components of the contact force between the solid sphere and
the block, expressed in terms of m, g, and θ.
2. The solid sphere starts at the top of the inclined plane, tangent to the inclined
surface, as shown. If θ is too large, the block will tip. Find the maximum angle
θmax that will permit the block to start sliding without tipping.
Reminder: A uniform right triangle, such as the one shown in the figure, has its center
of mass located 1/3 of the way up from the base and 1/3 of the way over from the
left edge.

A rotor consists of two square flat masses: m and 2m as indicated. These masses are
glued so as to be perpendicular to each other and rotated about a an axis bisecting
their common edge such that ω ~ points in the x − z plane 45◦ from each axis. Assume
there is no gravity.
1. Find the principal moments of inertia for this rotor, Ixx , Iyy , and Izz . Note that
off-diagonal elements vanish, so that x, y, and z are principal axes.
~ and its direction.
2. Find the angular momentum, L
3. What torque vector ~τ is needed to keep this rotation axis fixed in time?
Give all vectors in components of the internal x − y − z system of coordinates.


An ideal massless spring hangs vertically from a fixed horizontal support. A block of
mass m rests on the bottom of a box of mass M and this system of masses is hung
on the spring and allowed to come to rest in equilibrium under the force of gravity.
In this condition of equilibrium the extension of the spring beyond its relaxed length
is ∆y. The coordinate y as shown in the figure measures the displacement of M and
m from equilibrium.
1. Suppose the system of two masses is raised to a position y = −d and released

from rest at t = 0. Find an expression for y(t) which correctly describes the
motion for t ≥ 0.
2. For the motion described in the previous part, determine an expression for the
force of M on m as a function of time.
3. For what value of d is the force on m by M instantaneously zero immediately

after m and M are released from rest at y = −d?

Problem 189. A string with a tension ID:CM-G-1235

A string of tension T and linear mass density ρ connects two horizontal points distance
L apart from each other. y is the vertical coordinate pointing up, and x the is
horizontal coordinate.
1. Write down the functional of potential energy of the string vs. the shape of the
string y(x). Specify the boundary conditions for the function y(x).
2. Write down the equation which gives the shape of minimal energy for the string.
3. Find the solution of the differential equation which satisfies the boundary condi-
tions. (Do not try to solve the transcendental equation for one of the constant.
Just write it down.)
4. In the case T ρgL, the shape is approximately given by y ≈ − α2 x(L − x).
Find α.
Problem 190. Noether’s theorem ID:CM-G-1245

Which components (or their combinations) of momentum P~ and angular momentum
~ are conserved in motion in the following fields.
M
1. the field of an infinite homogeneous plane,
2. that of an infinite homogeneous cylinder,
3. that of an infinite homogeneous prism,
4. that of two points,
5. that of an infinite homogeneous half plane,
6. that of a homogeneous cone,
7. that of a homogeneous circular torus,
8. that of an infinite homogeneous cylindrical helix of pitch h.

CM PDF

Uploaded by

CM PDF

Uploaded by

Qualification Exam: Classical Mechanics

i) Write down the Lagrangian in plane polar coordinates r, θ.

2. Consider a particle of mass m moving in a plane in the potential V (r, ṙ) =

Problem 2. 1983-Fall-CM-U-2. ID:CM-U-15

Problem 3. 1983-Fall-CM-U-3. ID:CM-U-22

1. What is the frequency of small oscillations around the equilibrium position?

Classical Mechanics QEID#13174623 October, 2019

Problem 4. 1983-Spring-CM-U-1. ID:CM-U-33

Problem 5. 1983-Spring-CM-U-2. ID:CM-U-37

Problem 6. 1983-Spring-CM-U-3. ID:CM-U-42

Problem 7. 1984-Fall-CM-U-1. ID:CM-U-47

Classical Mechanics QEID#13174623 October, 2019

Problem 8. 1984-Fall-CM-U-2. ID:CM-U-59

Problem 9. 1984-Fall-CM-U-3. ID:CM-U-80

2. For what value(s) of α and β do the equations

represent a canonical transformation? Assume that α and β are constants.

Problem 10. 1984-Spring-CM-U-1. ID:CM-U-91

2. It is possible to construct a stack of books leaning over the edge of a desk as

Classical Mechanics QEID#13174623 October, 2019

Problem 11. 1984-Spring-CM-U-2. ID:CM-U-101

Problem 12. 1984-Spring-CM-U-3. ID:CM-U-110

Problem 13. 1985-Fall-CM-U-2. ID:CM-U-128

Note the fundamental principles you employ in this proof.

Classical Mechanics QEID#13174623 October, 2019

4. Show that the equilibrium is stable under small displacements.

Problem 14. 1985-Fall-CM-U-3. ID:CM-U-147

Problem 15. 1985-Spring-CM-U-1. ID:CM-U-154

Problem 16. 1985-Spring-CM-U-2. ID:CM-U-159

Problem 17. 1985-Spring-CM-U-3. ID:CM-U-164

mẍ + bẋ + kx = F (t),

Classical Mechanics QEID#13174623 October, 2019

where F (t) is given by

Problem 18. 1986-Spring-CM-U-1. ID:CM-U-177

Problem 19. 1986-Spring-CM-U-2. ID:CM-U-188

1. Find the Lagrangian for the system.

2. Use Euler-Lagrange differential equation(s) to find the equation(s) of motion

3. Find the approximate solution of the Euler-Lagrange differential equation(s) for

4. Find the Hamiltonian H(p, q) for the system.

Classical Mechanics QEID#13174623 October, 2019

Problem 20. 1986-Spring-CM-U-3. ID:CM-U-205

Problem 21. 1987-Fall-CM-U-1. ID:CM-U-219

Classical Mechanics QEID#13174623 October, 2019

Problem 22. 1987-Fall-CM-U-2.jpg ID:CM-U-233

Problem 23. 1987-Fall-CM-U-3. ID:CM-U-242

Classical Mechanics QEID#13174623 October, 2019

Problem 24. 1988-Fall-CM-U-1. ID:CM-U-247

Problem 25. 1988-Fall-CM-U-2. ID:CM-U-258

Classical Mechanics QEID#13174623 October, 2019

Problem 26. 1989-Fall-CM-U-1. ID:CM-U-274

1. Find the normal mode frequencies.

Problem 27. 1989-Fall-CM-U-2.jpg ID:CM-U-288

1. Find the velocity of the ball as a function of time.

2. What must a1 be for the assumption about the force to be valid?

Classical Mechanics QEID#13174623 October, 2019

Problem 28. 1989-Fall-CM-U-3. ID:CM-U-304

Classical Mechanics QEID#13174623 October, 2019

Problem 29. 1989-Spring-CM-U-1. ID:CM-U-313

1. Find the distance of closest approach of m to M .

2. Find the laboratory scattering angle. (Remember that M remains at rest.)

Problem 30. 1989-Spring-CM-U-2. ID:CM-U-327

Problem 31. 1989-Spring-CM-U-3. ID:CM-U-332

1. Find the eigenfrequencies and eigenvectors of the system.

2. Let L1 and L2 be the equilibrium positions of masses 1 and 2, respectively. Find

x1 (t = 0) = L1 ; dx1 /dt = −V0 at t = 0

Classical Mechanics QEID#13174623 October, 2019

Problem 32. 1990-Fall-CM-U-1. ID:CM-U-348

Problem 33. 1990-Fall-CM-U-2.jpg ID:CM-U-363

Classical Mechanics QEID#13174623 October, 2019

Problem 34. 1990-Fall-CM-U-3.jpg ID:CM-U-377

Problem 35. 1990-Spring-CM-U-1. ID:CM-U-391

3. Now suppose that E ~ = (0, Ey , Ez ), and B

Problem 36. 1990-Spring-CM-U-2. ID:CM-U-401

Classical Mechanics QEID#13174623 October, 2019

1. Calculate by what factor the reaction at the hinge is instantaneously reduced?

Problem 37. 1990-Spring-CM-U-3. ID:CM-U-411

Problem 38. 1991-Fall-CM-U-1. ID:CM-U-421

2. If at t = 0 the mass is at rest at y = 0 and if ẏ v0 for all time t, then find y

3. What condition must be satisfied so thatẏ v0 for all time t?