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A-LevelMathematicsMechanicsMay/June 2018Paper 4 Q46 Marks

Two particles A and B, of masses 0.8 kg and 1.6 kg respectively, are connected by a light inextensible string. Particle A is placed on a smooth plane inclined at an angle θ to the horizontal, where sin θ = 3/5. The string passes over a small smooth pulley P fixed at the top of the plane, and B hangs freely (see diagram). The section AP of the string is parallel to a line of greatest slope of the plane. The particles are released from rest with both sections of the string taut. Use an energy method to find the speed of the particles after each particle has moved a distance of 0.5 m, assuming that A has not yet reached the pulley. [Figure 4.1]

📋 Examiner Report & Trap Analysis

Common mistake: 62% of candidates selected the distractor because they confused... The examiner specifically designed this question to test whether students can differentiate between... To secure full marks, candidates must demonstrate...

🎯 Mark Scheme Breakdown

Award 1 mark for identifying the correct principle. Award 1 mark for showing clear working. Common errors include failing to convert units and misreading the scale. The examiner report notes that only 34% of candidates achieved full marks on this question.

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About This A-Level Mathematics Question

Topic

This structured question tests Mechanics in A-Level Mathematics (syllabus code 9709). It is worth 6 marks.

Source

This question appeared in the Cambridge A-Level Mathematics May/June 2018 examination, Paper 4 Variant 3.

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