A U-tube contains liquid, as shown in Fig. 4.1. [Figure 4.1] The total length of the liquid column is L. The column of liquid is displaced so that the change in height of the liquid level from the equilibrium position in each arm of the U-tube is x, as shown in Fig. 4.2. [Figure 4.2] The liquid in the U-tube then oscillates such that its acceleration a is given by the expression a=-(2g/L)x where g is the acceleration of free fall.
- (a)Show that the liquid column undergoes simple harmonic motion.[2]
- (b)The variation with time t of the displacement x is shown in Fig. 4.3. [Figure 4.3] Use data from Fig. 4.3 to determine the length L of the liquid column.[3]
- (c)(i)The oscillations shown in Fig. 4.3 are damped. Suggest one cause of this damping.[1]
- (c)(ii)Calculate the ratio total energy of oscillations after 1.5 complete oscillations / total initial energy of oscillations[2]
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Mark scheme
Marking points from the official mark scheme (Oct/Nov 2018). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.
- [B1] (defining equation of s.h.m. is) a = –kx where k is a constant or a ∝ –x
- [B1] g and L are constant (so a ∝ –x and hence s.h.m.)
- [C1] T = 0.50 s and T = 2π/ω
- [C1] ω² = 2g/L
- [A1] L = (2 × 9.81 × 0.50²)/4π² = 0.12 m
- [B1] Any one from: • viscosity of liquid • friction within the liquid • viscous drag • friction/resistance between walls of tube and liquid
- [C1] (maximum) KE = 1/2mv₀² and v₀ = ωx₀ or energy = 1/2mω²x₀²
- [A1] ratio = (1.3/2.0)² = 0.42
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