Chapter 13.

Kinetics of Particles: Energy and Momentum Methods

Introduction
Work of a Force
Kinetic Energy of a Particle. Principle of Work & Energy
Applications of the Principle of Work & Energy
Power and Efficiency
Potential Energy
Conservative Forces
Conservation of Energy
Motion Under a Conservative Central Force
Principle of Impulse and Momentum
Impulsive Motion
Impact
Direct Central Impact
Oblique Central Impact
Problems Involving Energy and Momentum
Energy and Momentum Methods
The potential energy of the roller coaster car is converted into kinetic energy as it
descends the track.

Impact tests are often analyzed by

using momentum methods
Introduction

• Previously, problems dealing with the motion of particles were solved through the
 
fundamental equation of motion, ΣF =ma.

• The current chapter introduces two additional methods of analysis.

• Method of work and energy : directly relates force, mass, velocity and displacement.

• Method of impulse and momentum : directly relates force, mass, velocity, and time.
Approaches to Kinetics Problems

Forces and Accelerations Velocities and Displacements Velocities and Time

Newton’s Second Law Work-Energy Impulse-Momentum

   t2  
∑ F = maG T1 + U1→2 =
T2 mv1 + ∫ F dt =
t1
mv2
13.1A Work of a Force

• Differential vector is the particle displacement .

• Work of the force is
 
dU = F • dr
= F ds cos α
= Fx dx + Fy dy + Fz dz
• Work is a scalar quantity, i.e., it has magnitude and sign
but not direction.
• Dimensions of work are length × force. Units are
1 J ( joule ) = (1 N )(1 m ) 1ft ⋅ lb = 1.356 J

Fig.13.1
Work of a Force
• Work of a force during a finite displacement,
A2 

U1→2 = ∫ F • dr
A1
s2 s2
= ∫ ( F cos α )ds = ∫ Ft ds
s1 s1
A2
= ∫ (Fx dx + Fy dy + Fz dz )
A1

• Work is represented by the area under the curve of

F t plotted against s.
• F t is the force in the direction of the displacement ds
Fig.13.2
What is the work of a constant force in rectilinear motion?

a) U1→=
2 F ∆x
b)=
U1→2 ( F cos α ) ∆x

c) =
U1→2 ( F sin α ) ∆x

d) U1→2 = 0

answer b)
 Work of the force of gravity,
dU = Fx dx + Fy dy + Fz dz
= −W dy
y2
U1→2 = − ∫ W dy
y1
= −W ( y 2 − y1 ) = −W ∆y

• Work of the weight is equal to product of weight W and vertical displacement  y.

• In the figure above, when is the work done by the weight positive?
a) Moving from y 1 to y 2 b) Moving from y 2 to y 1 c) Never

answer b)
Magnitude of the force exerted by a spring is proportional
to deflection,
F = kx
k = spring constant ( N/m or lb/in.)
Work of the force exerted by spring,
dU = − F dx = − kx dx
x2
U1→2 = − ∫ kx dx = 12 kx12 − 12 kx22
x1
 • Work of the force exerted by spring is positive when x 2 < x 1 ,
i.e., when the spring is returning to its undeformed position.
• Work of the force exerted by the spring is equal to negative of
area under curve of F plotted against x ,
U1→2 = − 12 ( F1 + F2 ) ∆x

Work of a Force

As the block moves from A 0 to A 1 , is the work positive or negative?

Positive ? Negative ?

As the block moves from A 2 to A o , is the work positive or negative?

Positive ? Negative ?

answer ; negative, positive

Work of a gravitational force (assume particle M occupies
fixed position O while particle m follows path shown),

Mm
dU = − Fdr = −G 2
dr
r
r2
Mm Mm Mm
U1→2 = − ∫ G dr = G −G
r1 r2 r2 r1
Does the normal force do work as the block slides from B to A?

Yes No

Does the weight do work as the block slides from B to A?

Yes No

Positive or Negative work?

Answer ; No, Yes, Positive

Work of a Force

Forces which do not do work (ds = 0 or cos α = 0):

• Reaction at frictionless pin supporting rotating body,

• Reaction at frictionless surface when body in contact moves along surface,
• Reaction at a roller moving along its track, and
• Weight of a body when its center of gravity moves horizontally.
13.1B Principle of Work & Energy
Consider a particle of mass m acted upon by force
dv
Ft = mat = m
dt
dv ds dv
=m = mv
ds dt ds
F t ds = mv dv
• Integrating from A 1 to A 2 ,
s2 v2
∫ tF ds = m ∫ v dv = 1 mv 2 − 1 mv 2
2 2 2 1
s1 v1

U1→2 = T2 − T1 T = 12 mv 2 = kinetic energy


• The work of the force F is equal to the change in kinetic energy of the particle.
• Units of work and kinetic energy are the same:
2
 m   m
T = 12 mv = kg  =  kg 2 m = N ⋅ m = J
2
s  s 
13.1.C Applications of the Principle of Work and Energy
The bob is released from rest at position A 1 .
Determine the velocity of the pendulum bob at A 2
using work & kinetic energy.


• Force P acts normal to path and does no work.
T1 + U1→2 = T2
1W 2
0 + Wl = v2
2 g
v2 = 2 gl
• Velocity is found without determining expression for acceleration and integrating.
• All quantities are scalars and can be added directly.
• Forces which do no work are eliminated from the problem.
 Principle of work and energy cannot be applied to
directly determine the acceleration of the pendulum
bob.
• Calculating the tension in the cord requires
supplementing the method of work and energy with
an application of Newton’s second law.

• As the bob passes through A 2 ,

∑ Fn = m an
W v22
P −W =
g l
W 2 gl
P =W + = 3W
g l

If you designed the rope to hold twice the weight of the bob, what would happen?
13.1.D Power and Efficiency
• Power = rate at which work is done.
 
dU F • dr
= =
dt dt
 
= F •v
• Dimensions of power are work/time or force*velocity. Units for power are
J m ft ⋅ lb
1 W (watt) = 1 = 1 N ⋅ or 1 hp = 550 = 746 W
s s s
η = efficiency
output work
=
input work
power output
=
power input
Sample Problem 13.1
An automobile of mass 1000 kg is driven down
a 5o incline at a speed of 72 km/h when the
brakes are applied causing a constant total
breaking force of 5000 N.
Determine the distance traveled by the
automobile as it comes to a stop.

STRATEGY:
• Evaluate the change in kinetic energy.
• Determine the distance required for the work to equal the kinetic energy change.
 MODELING and ANALYSIS:
• Evaluate the change in kinetic energy.

=v2 0=T2 0
• Determine the distance required for the work to equal the
kinetic energy change.

x = 48.3 m
REFLECT and THINK
• Solving this problem using Newton’s second law would require determining the car’s
deceleration from the free-body diagram and then integrating this to use the given
velocity information.
• Using the principle of work and energy allows you to avoid that calculation.
Sample Problem 13.2
Two blocks are joined by an inextensible cable
as shown. If the system is released from rest,
determine the velocity of block A after it has
moved 2 m. Assume that the coefficient of
friction between block A and the plane is m k =
0.25 and that the pulley is weightless and
frictionless.

STRATEGY:
• Apply the principle of work and energy separately to blocks A and B .
• When the two relations are combined, the work of the cable forces cancel. Solve
for the velocity.
MODELING and ANALYSIS
• Apply the principle of work and energy separately to
blocks A and B .
( )
W A = (200 kg ) 9.81 m s 2 = 1962 N
FA = µ k N A = µ k W A = 0.25(1962 N ) = 490 N
T1 + U1→2 = T2 :
0 + FC (2 m ) − FA (2 m ) = 12 m Av 2

FC (2 m ) − (490 N )(2 m ) = 12 (200 kg )v 2

( )
WB = (300 kg ) 9.81 m s 2 = 2940 N
T1 + U1→2 = T2 :
0 − Fc (2 m ) + WB (2 m ) = 12 m B v 2

− Fc (2 m ) + (2940 N )(2 m ) = 12 (300 kg )v 2

 • When the two relations are combined, the work of the
cable forces cancel. Solve for the velocity.
FC (2 m ) − (490 N )(2 m ) = 12 (200 kg )v 2
− Fc (2 m ) + (2940 N )(2 m ) = 12 (300 kg )v 2
(2940 N )(2 m ) − (490 N )(2 m ) = 12 (200 kg + 300 kg )v 2
4900 J = 12 (500 kg )v 2
v = 4.43 m s
REFLECT and THINK:
This problem can also be solved by applying the principle of work and energy to the
combined system of blocks.
When using the principle of work and energy, it usually saves time to choose your system
to be everything that moves.
Sample Problem 13.3
A spring is used to stop a 60 kg package which is
sliding on a horizontal surface. The spring has a
constant k = 20 kN/m and is held by cables so that
it is initially compressed 120 mm. The package has
a velocity of 2.5 m/s in the position shown and the
maximum deflection of the spring is 40 mm.
Determine (a) the coefficient of kinetic friction between the package and surface and (b)
the velocity of the package as it passes again through the position shown.

STRATEGY:
• Apply the principle of work and energy between the initial position and the point at
which the spring is fully compressed and the velocity is zero. The only unknown in
the relation is the friction coefficient.
• Apply the principle of work and energy for the rebound of the package. The only
unknown in the relation is the velocity at the final position.
 MODELING and ANALYSIS:
•Apply principle of work and energy between initial
position and the point at which spring is fully compressed.
T1 = 12 mv12 = 12 (60 kg )(2.5 m s )2 = 187.5 J T2 = 0
(U1→2 ) f = − µ kW x

( )
= − µ k (60 kg ) 9.81m s 2 (0.640 m ) = −(377 J )µ k
Pmin = kx0 = (20 kN m )(0.120 m ) = 2400 N
Pmax = k ( x0 + ∆x ) = (20 kN m )(0.160 m ) = 3200 N
(U1→2 )e = − 12 (Pmin + Pmax )∆x
= − 12 (2400 N + 3200 N )(0.040 m ) = −112.0 J

(U1→2 ) f + (U1→2 )e =
U1→2 = − ( 377 J ) µk − 112 J

T1 + U1→2 =
T2 :
187.5 J- ( 377 J ) µk − 112 J =
0
µk = 0.20
 *Apply the principle of work and energy for the
rebound of the package.
T2 = 0 T 3= 12 mv32 = 12 (60kg )v32
U 2→3 = (U 2→3 ) f + (U 2→3 )e = −(377 J )µ k + 112 J
= +36.5 J
T2 + U 2→3 =
T3 :
0 + 36.5 J =
1
2 ( 60 kg ) v3
2

v3 = 1.103m s

REFLECT and THINK:

You needed to break this problem into two segments. From the first segment you were able to
determine the coefficient of friction. Then you could use the principle of work and energy to determine
the velocity of the package at any other location. Note that the system does not lose any energy due
to the spring; it returns all of its energy back to the package. You would need to design something
that could absorb the kinetic energy of the package in order to bring it to rest.
Sample Problem 13.6
A 1000 kg car starts from rest at point 1 and moves
without friction down the track shown.
Determine:
a) the force exerted by the track on the car at point 2,
and b) the minimum safe value of the radius of
curvature at point 3.

STRATEGY:
• Apply principle of work and energy to determine velocity at point 2.
• Apply Newton’s second law to find normal force by the track at point 2.
• Apply principle of work and energy to determine velocity at point 3.
• Apply Newton’s second law to find minimum radius of curvature at point 3 such that
a positive normal force is exerted by the track.
 MODELING and ANALYSIS:
a. Apply principle of work and energy to determine
velocity at point 2.

• Apply Newton’s second law to find normal force by the track at

point 2.
+ ↑ ∑ Fn =m an :

N = 49.05 kN
 b. Apply principle of work and energy to determine
velocity at point 3.

• Apply Newton’s second law to find minimum radius of

curvature at point 3 such that a positive normal force is exerted
by the track.
+ ↓ ∑ Fn =m an :
REFLECT and THINK
This is an example where you need both Newton’s second law and the principle of work
and energy.
Work–energy is used to determine the speed of the car, and Newton’s second law is used
to determine the normal force.
A normal force of 5W is equivalent to a fighter pilot pulling 5g’s and should only be
experienced for a very short time.
For safety, you would also want to make sure your radius of curvature was quite a bit
larger than 15 m.

Sample Problem 13.7

The dumbwaiter D and its load have a combined mass of 300 kg, while
the counterweight C has a mass of 400 kg.
Determine the power delivered by the electric motor M when the
dumbwaiter (a) is moving up at a constant speed of
2.5 m/s and (b) has an instantaneous velocity of 2.5 m/s and an
acceleration of 1 m/s2, both directed upwards.
STRATEGY:
Force exerted by the motor cable has same direction as the dumbwaiter velocity.
Power delivered by motor is equal to Fv D , v D = 2.5 m/s.
• In the first case, bodies are in uniform motion. Determine force exerted by motor
cable from conditions for static equilibrium.
• In the second case, both bodies are accelerating. Apply Newton’s second law to
each body to determine the required motor cable force.
MODELING and ANALYSIS:
• In the first case, bodies are in uniform motion. Determine force
exerted by motor cable from conditions for static equilibrium.
• Free-body C:
+ ↑ ∑ Fy = 0 : 2T 400g 
0 T 200g 1962 N
Free-body D:
+ ↑ ∑ Fy = 0 : F T 300 g 0
F 300 g T 300 g 200 g 100 g
981 N
 = Fv
Power =D ( 981 N )( 2.5m s )
= 2452 W

Power = 2450 W

In the second case, both bodies are accelerating. Apply Newton’s second
law to each body to determine the required motor cable force.

Free-body C:
+ ↓ ∑ Fy = mC aC : 400g 2T 
400 
0.5 T 1862 N
Free-body D: + ↑ ∑ Fy = m D a D :

F T 300g 300 
1
F 1862 
300
9.81300
F 1381 N
= Fv
Power =D s ) 3452 W
(1381 N )( 2.5m=
Power = 3450 W
REFLECT and THINK
As you might expect, the motor needs to deliver more power to produce accelerated motion
than to produce motion at constant velocity.
13.2 Conservation of Energy
The potential energy stored at the top of the ball’s path is transferred to kinetic energy
as the ball meets the ground. Why is the ball’s height reducing?
13.2A Potential Energy

If the work of a force only depends on differences in position, we can express this work
as potential energy.
Can the work done by the following forces be expressed as potential energy?

Weight YES NO
Friction YES NO
Normal force YES NO
Spring force YES NO

YES NO NO YES
 
• Work of the force of gravity W ,
U1→2 = W y1 − W y 2
• Work is independent of path followed; depends only
on the initial and final values of Wy.
V g = Wy
= potential energy of the body with respect to
force of gravity .
U1→2 = V g( )1 − (Vg )2
• Choice of datum from which the elevation y is measured is arbitrary.
• Units of work and potential energy are the same:
V g = Wy = N ⋅ m = J
 • Previous expression for potential energy of a body with
respect to gravity is only valid when the weight of the body
can be assumed constant.
• For a space vehicle, the variation of the force of gravity
with distance from the center of the earth should be
considered.
• Work of a gravitational force,
GMm GMm
U1→2 = −
r2 r1

• Potential energy V g when the variation in the force of gravity can not be neglected,
2
GMm WR
Vg = − =−
r r
• Work of the force exerted by a spring depends only
on the initial and final deflections of the spring,
U1→2 = 12 kx12 − 12 kx22
• The potential energy of the body with respect to the
elastic force,
Ve = 12 kx 2
U1→2 = (Ve )1 − (Ve )2
 • Note that the preceding expression for V e is valid only if
the deflection of the spring is measured from its undeformed
position.

13.2B Conservative Forces

Concept of potential energy can be applied if the work of
the force is independent of the path followed by its point
of application.
U1→2 = V ( x1 , y1 , z1 ) − V ( x2 , y 2 , z 2 )
Such forces are described as conservative forces.

• For any conservative force applied on a closed path,

  
∫ F • dr = 0
• Elementary work corresponding to displacement
between two neighboring points,
dU = V ( x, y, z ) − V ( x + dx, y + dy, z + dz )
= − dV ( x, y, z )
 ∂V ∂V ∂V 
Fx dx + Fy dy + Fz dz = − dx + dy + dz 
 ∂x ∂ y ∂z 
  ∂V ∂V ∂V 
F= − + + = −grad V
 ∂x ∂ y ∂z 
13.2C The Principle of Conservation of Energy
• Work of a conservative force,
U1→ 2 = V1 − V2
• Concept of work and energy,
U1→ 2 = T2 − T1
• Follows that
T1 + V1 = T2 + V2
E = T + V = constant
T1 = 0 V1 = W
T1 + V1 = W When a particle moves under the action of
conservative forces, the total mechanical
1W
=
T2 1
2=
mv22 ( 2=
g  ) W =
V2 0 energy is constant.
• 2 g Friction forces are not conservative. Total
T2 + V2 =
W mechanical energy of a system involving
friction decreases.
Mechanical energy is dissipated by friction into
thermal energy. Total energy is constant.
13.2D Motion Under a Conservative Central Force
• When a particle moves under a conservative central force, both
the principle of conservation of angular momentum

r0 mv0 sin φ 0 = rmv sin φ

and the principle of conservation of energy

T0 + V0 = T + V
GMm 1 2 GMm
1 mv 2
2 0 − = 2 mv −
r0 r

Given r , the equations may be solved for v .

 Also, using Eqns (25),(26)
• At minimum and maximum r , φ = 90o. Given the launch
conditions, the equations may be solved for r min , r max , v min , and v max .

Sample Problem 13.8

Sample Problem 13.10
The 250 g pellet is pushed against the spring and
released from rest at A . Neglecting friction,
determine the smallest deflection of the spring for
which the pellet will travel around the loop and
remain in contact with the loop at all times.
STRATEGY:
• Since the pellet must remain in contact with the loop, the force exerted on the pellet
must be greater than or equal to zero. Setting the force exerted by the loop to zero,
solve for the minimum velocity at D.
• Apply the principle of conservation of energy between points A and D. Solve for
the spring deflection required to produce the required velocity and kinetic energy at
D.

MODELING and ANALYSIS:

• Setting the force exerted by the loop to zero, solve
for the minimum velocity at D.

+ ↓ ∑ Fn = man : W 
man mg m vD2 r
rg 
vD2   
0.6 m 9.81 m s 2 5.886 m 2 s 2
 • Apply the principle of conservation of energy between points A and D.
Ve Vg 12 kx 2 0 12 
V1  600 N m 
x 2 300 x 2
T1 0
V2 =Ve + Vg =0 + Wy =( 0.25 kg ) ( 9.81 m s 2 ) (1.2 m ) =2.943 N ⋅ m

( 0.25 kg ) ( 5.886 m 2=
s 2 ) 0.73575 N ⋅ m
1
=
T2 1=
2
mv 2
D
2

x = 0.1107 m
T1 + V1 = T2 + V2
0 + 300 x 2 = 0.73575 + 2.943
REFLECT and THINK
A common misconception in problems like this is assuming that the speed of the particle
is zero at the top of the loop, rather than that the normal force is equal to or greater than
zero. If the pellet had a speed of zero at the top, it would clearly fall straight down, which
is impossible.
Sample Problem 13.12
A satellite is launched in a direction parallel to the
surface of the earth with a velocity of 36900 km/h from
an altitude of 500 km.
Determine (a) the maximum altitude reached by the
satellite, and (b) the maximum allowable error in the
direction of launching if the satellite is to come no
closer than 200 km to the surface of the earth
STRATEGY:
• For motion under a conservative central force, the principles of conservation of energy
and conservation of angular momentum may be applied simultaneously.
• Apply the principles to the points of minimum and maximum altitude to determine the
maximum altitude.
• Apply the principles to the orbit insertion point and the point of minimum altitude to
determine maximum allowable orbit insertion angle error.
 MODELING and ANALYSIS:
• Apply the principles of conservation of energy and
conservation of angular momentum to the points of minimum
and maximum altitude to determine the maximum altitude.
Conservation of energy:
GMm GMm
TA + V A = TA′ + V A′ 1 mv 2
2 0 − = 1 mv 2
2 1 −
r0 r1
Conservation of angular momentum:
r0
r0 mv0 = r1mv1 v1 = v0
r1
Combining,

1 v 2 1 − r0
2  GM  r  r0 2GM
= 1 − 0  1+ =
2 0 
 r12  r0  r1  r1 r0v02

r0 = 6370 km + 500 km = 6870 km

= =
v0 36900 km h 10.25 ×106 m s

( 9.81m s2 )( 6.37 ×106 m ) =

2
GM =
gR 2 = 398 ×1012 m3 s 2
r1 =60.4 ×106 m =60400 km
 Apply the principles to the orbit insertion point and the point
of minimum altitude to determine maximum allowable orbit
insertion angle error.
Conservation of energy:
GMm 1 2 GMm
T0 + V0 = TA + VA 1 mv 2
2 0 − = 2 mvmax −
r0 rmin
Conservation of angular momentum:
r0
r0 mv0 sin φ0 = rmin mvmax vmax = v0 sin φ0
rmin
Combining and solving for sin j 0 ,
sin φ0 = 0.9801
ϕ 0 = 90° ± 11.5° allowable error = ±11.5°

REFLECT and THINK:

• Space probes and other long-distance vehicles are designed with small rockets to allow for mid-
course corrections. Satellites launched from the Space Station usually do not need this kind of
fine-tuning.
Impulsive Motion
The thrust of a rocket acts over a specific time period to give the
rocket linear momentum.
 The impulse applied to the railcar by the wall brings its momentum to zero.
Crash tests are often performed to help improve safety in different vehicles.

13.3A Principle of Impulse and Momentum

• From Newton’s second law,
linear momentum ( mv )

 d 
F = (mv ) (13.27)
dt
  
Fdt = d ( mv )
t2
  
∫
t1
=
Fdt mv2 − mv1

• Dimensions of the impulse of a force are force*time.

( )
N ⋅ s = kg ⋅ m s 2 ⋅ s = kg ⋅ m s
• Units for the impulse of a force are
• t2
 
∫ Fdt Imp
=
t1
= 1→ 2 impulse of the force F
 
mv1 + Imp1→2 =
mv2 ....(13.28)
The final momentum of the particle can be obtained by adding vectorially its initial
momentum and the impulse of the force during the time interval.

Fig.13.17
Fig.13.18
13.3B Impulsive Motion
Force acting on a particle during a very short time
interval that is large enough to cause a significant
change in momentum is called an impulsive force.
• When impulsive forces act on a particle,

  
mv1 + ∑ F ∆t = mv2 (13.35)

• When a baseball is struck by a bat, contact occurs over a short time interval but force
is large enough to change sense of ball motion.

• Nonimpulsive forces are forces for which F∆t is small and therefore, may be
neglected – an example of this is the weight of the baseball.
Sample Problem 13.13
An automobile weighing 1800 kg is driven down
a 5o incline at a speed of 100 km/h when the
brakes are applied, causing a constant total
braking force of 7000 N.
Determine the time required for the automobile
to come to a stop.

STRATEGY:
• Apply the principle of impulse and momentum. The impulse is equal to the product
of the constant forces and the time interval.
 MODELING and ANALYSIS:
• Apply the principle of impulse and momentum.
 
mv1 + ∑ Imp1→2 = mv2
Taking components parallel to the incline,

REFLECT and THINK t = 9.16s

• You could use Newton’s second law to solve this problem. First, you would determine
the car’s deceleration, separate variables, and then integrate a = dv/dt to relate the
velocity, deceleration, and time. You could not use conservation of energy to solve
this problem, because this principle does not involve time.
Sample Problem 13.16
A 120 g baseball is pitched with a velocity of 24 m/s. After
the ball is hit by the bat, it has a velocity of 36 m/s in the
direction shown. If the bat and ball are in contact for 0.015
s, determine the average impulsive force exerted on the ball
during the impact.

STRATEGY:
• Apply the principle of impulse and momentum in terms of horizontal and vertical
component equations.
MODELING and ANALYSIS:
• Apply the principle of impulse and momentum in terms of
horizontal and vertical component equations.
 
mv1 + Imp1→ 2 = mv2
x component equation:

y component equation:

  
F=( 413 N ) i + (185.1N ) j , F =
452 N
Sample Problem 13.17
A 10 kg package drops from a chute into a 24 kg cart
with a velocity of 3 m/s. Knowing that the cart is
initially at rest and can roll freely, determine (a) the final
velocity of the cart, (b) the impulse exerted by the cart
on the package, and (c) the fraction of the initial energy
lost in the impact.

STRATEGY:
• Apply the principle of impulse and momentum to the package-cart system to
determine the final velocity.
• Apply the same principle to the package alone to determine the impulse exerted on
it from the change in its momentum.
MODELING and ANALYSIS
• Apply the principle of impulse and momentum to the package-cart system to
determine the final velocity.

 
( p c) 2
m p v1 + ∑ Imp1→2 =m + m v

( )
m p v1 cos 30° + 0 = m p + mc v2

x components: (10 kg )(3 m/s )cos 30° = (10 kg + 25 kg )v2

v2 = 0.742 m/s
 • Apply the same principle to the package alone to determine the impulse exerted on
it from the change in its momentum.

x
 
m p v1 + ∑ Imp1→2 =
m p v2

m p v1 cos 30° + Fx ∆t = m p v2

x components: (10 kg )(3 m/s ) cos 30° + Fx ∆t = (10 kg )v2 Fx ∆t = −18.56 N ⋅ s

− m p v1 sin 30° + Fy ∆t = 0
− (10 kg )(3 m/s )sin 30° + Fy ∆t = 0 Fy ∆t = 15 N ⋅ s
y components:

  
∑ Imp 1→ 2 = F ∆t = ( −18.56 N ⋅ s ) i + (15 N ⋅ s ) j F ∆t = 23.9 N ⋅ s
 To determine the fraction of energy lost,

= = (10 kg )( 3m = s ) 45 J
2
T1 m p v12
1
2
1
2

T2 =12 ( m p + mc ) v22 =12 (10 kg + 25 kg )( 0.742 m s ) =9.63 J

2

T1 − T2 45 J − 9.63 J
= = 0.786
T1 45 J

REFLECT and THINK:

Except in the purely theoretical case of a “perfectly elastic” collision, mechanical energy is never conserved
in a collision between two objects, even though linear momentum may be conserved. Note that, in this
problem, momentum was conserved in the x direction but was not conserved in the y direction because of
the vertical impulse on the wheels of the cart. Whenever you deal with an impact, you need to use impulse-
momentum methods.
13.4 Impact
The coefficient of restitution is used to characterize the “bounciness” of different sports
equipment. The U.S. Golf Association limits the COR of golf balls at 0.83
 • Impact: Collision between two bodies which occurs
during a small time interval and during which the bodies
exert large forces on each other.
• Line of Impact: Common normal to the surfaces in
contact during impact.
Central Impact: Impact for which the mass centers of the
two bodies lie on the line of impact; otherwise, Direct
Central Impact it is an eccentric impact. .

• Direct Impact: Impact for which the velocities of the

two bodies are directed along the line of impact.
• Oblique Impact: Impact for which one or both of
the bodies move along a line other than the line of impact.
13.4 A Direct Central Impact
• Bodies moving in the same straight line,
vA > vB .
• Upon impact the bodies undergo a
period of deformation, at the end of which, they are in
contact and moving at a common velocity.
• A period of restitution follows during which the bodies either regain
their original shape or remain permanently deformed.

• Wish to determine the final velocities of the two bodies.

The total momentum of the two body system is preserved,
m Av A + m B v B = m B v′B + m B v′B
• A second relation between the final velocities is required.

e = coefficient of restitution

= ∫ Rdt u − v′A
=
∫ Pdt v A − u
0 ≤ e ≤1
• Period of deformation:
m Av A − ∫ Pdt = m Au

• Period of restitution:
m Au − ∫ Rdt = m Av′A

v′B − u
e=
• A similar analysis of particle B yields u − vB

• Combining the relations leads to the desired second relation between the final
velocities. v′B − v′A = e(v A − v B )
• Perfectly plastic impact, e = 0: v′B = v′A = v′ m Av A + m B v B = (m A + m B )v′
• Perfectly elastic impact, e = 1: v′B − v′A = v A − v B
Total energy and total momentum conserved.
13.4B Oblique Central Impact
• Final velocities are
unknown in magnitude and
direction. Four equations
are required.

• No tangential impulse component; tangential component of momentum for each

particle is conserved.
(v A )t = (v′A )t (v B )t = (v′B )t
• Normal component of total momentum of the two particles is conserved.
m A (v A )n + m B (v B )n = m A (v′A )n + m B (v′B )n
• Normal components of relative velocities before and after impact are related by the
coefficient of restitution.
(v′B )n − (v′A )n = e[(v A )n − (v B )n ]
• Block constrained to move along horizontal surface.
 
• Impulses from internal forces F and − F along the n axis and from external force

Fext exerted by horizontal surface and directed along the vertical to the surface.
• Final velocity of ball unknown in direction and magnitude and unknown final block
velocity magnitude. Three equations required.
• Tangential momentum of ball is conserved.
(v B )t = (v′B )t

• Total horizontal momentum of block and ball is conserved.

m A (v A ) + m B (v B ) x = m A (v′A ) + m B (v′B ) x
• Normal component of relative velocities of block and ball are related by coefficient
of restitution.
(v′B )n − (v′A )n = e[(v A )n − (v B )n ]

• Note: Validity of last expression does not follow from previous relation for the
coefficient of restitution. A similar but separate derivation is required.
13.4C Problems Involving Multiple Principles
• Three methods for the analysis of kinetics problems:
- Direct application of Newton’s second law
- Method of work and energy
- Method of impulse and momentum

• Select the method best suited for the problem or part of a problem under
consideration.
Sample Problem 13.19
A ball is thrown against a frictionless, vertical wall. Immediately
before the ball strikes the wall, its velocity has a magnitude v
and forms angle of 30o with the horizontal. Knowing that
e = 0.90, determine the magnitude and direction of the velocity
of the ball as it rebounds from the wall.

STRATEGY:
• Resolve ball velocity into components normal and tangential to wall.
• Impulse exerted by the wall is normal to the wall. Component of ball momentum
tangential to wall is conserved.
• Assume that the wall has infinite mass so that wall velocity before and after impact
is zero. Apply coefficient of restitution relation to find change in normal relative
velocity between wall and ball, i.e., the normal ball velocity.
 MODELING and ANALYSIS:
Resolve ball velocity into components parallel and perpendicular
to wall.
vn = v cos 30° = 0.866v vt = v sin 30° = 0.500v
Component of ball momentum tangential to wall is conserved.
vt′ = vt = 0.500v

Apply coefficient of restitution relation with zero wall velocity.

0 − vn′ = e(vn − 0 )
vn′ = −0.9(0.866v ) = −0.779v

  
v ′ = −0.779v λn + 0.500v λt
 0.779 
v′ = 0.926v tan −1  = 32.7°
 0.500 
REFLECT and THINK:
Tests similar to this are done to make sure that sporting equipment––such as tennis balls, golf
balls, and basketballs––are consistent and fall within certain specifications. Testing modern golf
balls
and clubs shows that the coefficient of restitution actually decreases with increasing club speed
(from about 0.84 at a speed of 145 kmph to about 0.80 at club speeds of 210 kmph).
Sample Problem 13.20
The magnitude and direction of the velocities of two
identical frictionless balls before they strike each other
are as shown. Assuming e = 0.9, determine the
magnitude and direction of the velocity of each ball after
the impact.

STRATEGY:
• Resolve the ball velocities into components normal and tangential to the contact plane.
• Tangential component of momentum for each ball is conserved.
• Total normal component of the momentum of the two ball system is conserved.
• The normal relative velocities of the balls are related by the coefficient of restitution.
• Solve the last two equations simultaneously for the normal velocities of the balls after the
impact.
MODELING and ANALYSIS:
• Resolve the ball velocities into components normal and
tangential to the contact plane.
v A n 
v A cos30 7.79 m s 
vA t

v A sin 30 4.5 m s
vB n vB cos 606 m s vB t 
vB sin 60 10.39 m s

• Tangential component of momentum for each ball is

conserved.

• Total normal component of the momentum of the two ball

system is conserved.
• The normal relative velocities of the balls are related by
the coefficient of restitution.

• Solve the last two equations simultaneously for the normal

velocities of the balls after the impact.
REFLECT and THINK:
• Rather than choosing your system to be both balls, you could have applied impulse-
momentum along the line of impact for each ball individually.
• This would have resulted in two equations and one additional unknown, FΔt. To
determine the impulsive force F, you would need to be given the time for the impact,
Δt.
Sample Problem 13.21
Ball B is hanging from an inextensible cord. An identical ball A is
released from rest when it is just touching the cord and acquires a
velocity v 0 before striking ball B . Assuming perfectly elastic impact
(e = 1) and no friction, determine the velocity of each ball
immediately after impact.

STRATEGY:
• Determine orientation of impact line of action.
• The momentum component of ball A tangential to the contact plane is conserved.
• The total horizontal momentum of the two ball system is conserved.
• The relative velocities along the line of action before and after the impact are related by
the coefficient of restitution.
• Solve the last two expressions for the velocity of ball A along the line of action and the
velocity of ball B which is horizontal.
 MODELING and ANALYSIS:
r
sin θ = = 0.5 •Determine orientation of impact line of action.
2r
• The momentum component of ball A tangential
θ = 30°
to the contact plane is conserved.

  
mv A + F∆t = mv A′
mv0 sin 30° + 0 = m(v′A )t
(v′A )t = 0.5v0

• The total horizontal (x component)

momentum of the two ball system is
conserved.
   
mv A + T∆t = mv A ′ + mvB′
0 = m(v′A )t cos 30° − m(v′A )n sin 30° − mv′B
0 = (0.5v0 ) cos 30° − (v′A )n sin 30° − v′B
0.5(v′A )n + v′B = 0.433v0
 • The relative velocities along the line of action
before and after the impact are related by the
coefficient of restitution.
(v′B )n − (v′A )n = e[(v A )n − (vB )n ]
v′B sin 30° − (v′A )n = v0 cos 30° − 0
0.5v′B − (v′A )n = 0.866v0
• Solve the last two expressions for the velocity of ball A along the line of action and
the velocity of ball B which is horizontal.
(v′A )n = −0.520v0 v′B = 0.693v0
  
v A′ = 0.5v0λt − 0.520v0λn

β = tan −1
0.52 
v′A = 0.721v0  = 46.1°
 0 .5 
α = 46.1° − 30° = 16.1°
v′B = 0.693v0 ←
REFLECT and THINK
Since e = 1, the impact between A and B is perfectly elastic. Therefore, rather than using
the coefficient of restitution, you could have used the conservation of energy as your final
equation.
Sample Problem 13.22

A 30 kg block is dropped from a height of 2 m onto the

10 kg pan of a spring scale. Assuming the impact to be
perfectly plastic, determine the maximum deflection of
the pan. The constant of the spring is k = 20 kN/m.

STRATEGY:
• Apply the principle of conservation of energy to determine the velocity of the block at
the instant of impact.
• Since the impact is perfectly plastic, the block and pan move together at the same velocity
after impact. Determine that velocity from the requirement that the total momentum of
the block and pan is conserved.
• Apply the principle of conservation of energy to determine the maximum deflection of
the spring.
 MODELING and ANALYSIS:
• Apply principle of conservation of energy to
determine velocity of the block at instant of impact.
T1 = 0 V1 = WA y = (30 )(9.81)(2 ) = 588 J
T2 = 12 m A (v A )22 = 12 (30 )(v A )22 V2 = 0
T1 + V1 = T2 + V2
0 + 588 J = 12 (30 )(v A )22 + 0 (v A )2 = 6.26 m s
• Determine velocity after impact from requirement
that total momentum of the block and pan is conserved.
m A (v A )2 + mB (vB )2 = (m A + mB )v3
(30)(6.26) + 0 = (30 + 10)v3 v3 = 4.70 m s
 • Apply the principle of conservation of energy to
determine the maximum deflection of the spring.

T3 = 12 (m A + mB )v32 = 12 (30 + 10 )(4.7 )2 = 442 J

V3 = Vg + Ve

( )(
= 0 + 12 kx32 = 12 20 × 103 4.91 × 10−3 )2 = 0.241 J
T4 = 0
Initial spring
( )(
V4 = Vg + Ve = WA + WB − h + 12 kx42 )
deflection
due to pan weight: ( ) (
= −392 x4 − x3 + 12 20 × 103 x42)
x3 =
WB (10 )(9.81)
= = 4 . 91 × 10 −3
m = −392(x4 − 4.91 × 10−3 ) + 12 (20 × 103 )x42
k 20 × 103
T3 + V3 = T4 + V4
0 392 ( x4 − 4.91×10−3 ) + 12 ( 20 ×103 ) x42
442 + 0.241 =−
x4 = 0.230 m

h = x4 − x3 = 0.230 m − 4.91×10−3 m h = 0.225 m

REFLECT and THINK:
The spring constant for this scale is pretty large, but the block is fairly massive and is
dropped from a height of 2 m. From this perspective, the deflection seems reasonable.
We included the spring in the system so we could treat it as an energy term rather than
finding the work of the spring force.
Sample Problem 13.23
A 2-kg block A is pushed up against a spring
compressing it a distance x = 0.1 m. The block is then
released from rest and slides down the 20º incline until
it strikes a 1-kg sphere B , which is suspended from a 1
m inextensible rope. The spring constant k=800 N/m,
the coefficient of friction between A and the ground is
0.2, the distance A slides from the unstretched length of
the spring d=1.5 m, and the coefficient of restitution
between A and B is 0.8. When α =40o, find (a) the speed of B (b) the tension in the rope.
STRATEGY:
• This is a multiple step problem. Formulate your overall approach.
• Use work-energy to find the velocity of the block just before impact
• Use conservation of momentum to determine the speed of ball B after the impact
• Use work energy to find the velocity at a
• Use Newton’s 2nd Law to find tension in the rope
MODELING and ANALYSIS:
Given: m A = 2-kg m B = 1-kg, k= 800 N/m, m A
=0.2, e= 0.8
Find (a) v B (b) T rope
• Use work-energy to find the velocity of the
block just before impact

Determine the friction force acting on the block A

Sum forces in the y-direction Solve for N

N = mA g  cos θ
∑ Fy =
0:
= (2)(9.81) cos 20°
N − mA g cos θ =
0 = 18.4368 N
F f µ=
= kN (0.2)(18.4368)
= 3.6874 N
 Set your datum, use work-energy to determine v A at impact.
T1 + (V1 )e + (V1 ) g + U1→2 =
T2 + (V2 )e + (V2 ) g .....(1) 1
Determine values for each term.
1 2 1 2
=T1 0, =
(V1 )e = k x1 =
(800)(0.1) 2
4.00 J
2 2
x Datum
(=
V1 ) g m=
A gh1 mA g ( x + d )sin
= θ (2)(9.81)(1.6)sin=
20° 10.7367 ?J d

U1→2 =
− Ff ( x + d ) =
−(3.6874)(1.6) =
−5.8998 ?J

1 1
=T2 =mA v A2 =
(1) (v A2 ) 1.000 ?v=
2
A V2 0
2 2
Substitute into the Work-Energy equation and solve for v A
T1 + V1 + U1→2 = T2 + V2 : 0 + 4.00 + 10.7367 − 5.8998 = 1.000 v A2 + 0

v A2 = 8.8369 m 2 /s 2
v A = 2.97 m/s
 • Use conservation of momentum to
determine the speed of ball B after the
impact
• Draw the impulse diagram

Apply conservation of momentum in the x direction

=
mA v A cos θ + 0 mA v′A cos θ + mB vB
=
(2)(2.9727) cos 20° 2v′A cos 20° + (1.00)vB (2)

Use the relative velocity/coefficient of restitution equation

(vB′ ) n − (v′A ) n = e [(vB ) n − (v A ) n ]
vB′ cos θ − v′A = e [v A − 0]
vB′ cos 20° − v′A = (0.8)(2.9727) (3)
Solve (2) and (3) simultaneously=v′A 1.0382
= m/s vB′ 3.6356 m/s
 • Use work energy to find the velocity at a
Set datum, use Work-Energy to determine v B at a= 40o
T1 + (V1 )e + (V1 ) g + U1→2 =
T2 + (V2 )e + (V2 ) g 2
Determine values for each term.
1
=T1 = mB (vB′ ) 2 V1 0
2
1 1 Datum
=T2 mB v22 = V2 m=B gh2 mB gl (1 − cos α )
2

Substitute into the Work-Energy equation and solve for v A

1 1
T1 + V1 = T2 + V2 : mB (vB′ ) 2 + 0 = mB v22 + mB g (1 − cos α )
2 2
v2 = (vB′ ) − 2 gl (1 − cos α )
2 2

= (3.6356) 2 − (2)(9.81)(1 − cos 40°)

= 8.6274 m 2 /s 2

v2 = 2.94 ?m/s
• Use Newton’s 2nd Law to find tension in the rope
• Draw your free-body and kinetic diagrams
en
et

• Sum forces in the normal direction

∑ Fn =
mB  an : T − m g cos α =
mB an
B
=T mB (an + g cos α )
• Determine normal acceleration
ρ = 1.00 m
v22 8.6274
a= = = 8.6274 m/s 2
n
ρ 1.00
• Substitute and solve
T= (1.0) (8.6274 + 9.81cos 40°) T = 16.14

Summary

Approaches to Kinetics Problems

 
Forces and Accelerations -> Newton’s Second Law ∑ F = maG

Velocities and Displacements -> Work-Energy T1 + U1→2 =

T2

 t2  
Velocities and Time -> Impulse-Momentum mv1 + ∫ F dt =
mv2
t1