Collisions: 2 Spheres Direct

From an AS paper

Edexcel

Edexcel · Old spec

A2 June 2025 Q5

EdexcelCurrent spec13 marksCollisions: 2 Spheres Direct

5.

Figure 2: three balls A (2m), B (3m) and C (4m) at rest in a straight line on a horizontal surface
Figure 2

Three small balls, \(A\), \(B\) and \(C\), have masses \(2m\), \(3m\) and \(4m\) respectively.

The balls are initially at rest in a straight line on a smooth horizontal surface, with \(B\) between \(A\) and \(C\), as shown in Figure 2.

Ball \(A\) is projected towards \(B\) with speed \(5u\) and \(A\) and \(B\) collide directly.
Immediately after the collision, the speed of \(B\) is \(3u\)

The balls are modelled as uniform spheres with equal radii.

(a) Find, in terms of \(u\), the speed of \(A\) immediately after the collision with \(B\). (3)
(b) Find the coefficient of restitution between \(A\) and \(B\). (3)

After the collision between \(A\) and \(B\), ball \(C\) is projected towards \(B\) with speed \(u\)
Balls \(B\) and \(C\) collide directly.
The coefficient of restitution between \(B\) and \(C\) is \(f\)

Given that there is a second direct collision between \(A\) and \(B\)

(c) find the complete range of possible values of \(f\) (7)

AS June 2025 Q4

4.

Figure 1: particle A of mass m next to a vertical wall, moving away from the wall with speed 4u after the collision
Figure 1

A particle \(A\) of mass \(m\) is moving on a smooth horizontal plane when it collides directly with a fixed vertical wall which is perpendicular to the direction of motion of \(A\). Immediately after the collision, the speed of \(A\) is \(4u\), directly away from the wall, as shown in Figure 1.

The coefficient of restitution between \(A\) and the wall is \(e\).

Given that the magnitude of the impulse exerted on \(A\) by the wall in the collision is \(9mu\),

(a) find the value of \(e\). (5)
Figure 2: particle A of mass m moving away from the wall with speed 4u, and particle B of mass 2m moving towards A with speed u
Figure 2

At the instant when \(A\) rebounds from the wall, a particle \(B\) of mass \(2m\) is projected along the plane towards \(A\), as shown in Figure 2.

The particles are moving in opposite directions along the same straight line when they collide directly.
Immediately before the collision, the speed of A is \(4u\) and the speed of \(B\) is \(u\).
Immediately after the collision, the total kinetic energy of the two particles is \(mu^2\)

(b) Determine, showing your method clearly, whether there are any further collisions between \(A\) and the wall. (7)

AS June 2025 Q2

EdexcelAS paperCurrent spec10 marksCollisions: 2 Spheres DirectImpulse & Momentum

2. A particle \(Q\) of mass \(3m\) is at rest on a smooth horizontal plane. A particle \(P\) of mass \(m\) is moving along the plane when it collides directly with \(Q\).

The speed of \(P\) immediately before the collision is \(u\).

The direction of motion of \(P\) is reversed by the collision.

The coefficient of restitution between \(P\) and \(Q\) is \(e\).

(a) Show that the speed of \(P\) immediately after the collision is \(\dfrac{u(3e-1)}{4}\) (6)
(b) State the full range of possible values of \(e\). (1)

Given that \(e = \dfrac{1}{2}\)

(c) find, in terms of \(m\) and \(u\), the magnitude of the impulse exerted by \(P\) on \(Q\) in the collision. (3)

A2 June 2025 Q1

1. A particle \(A\) has mass \(4m\) and a particle \(B\) has mass \(3m\). The particles are moving along the same straight line on a smooth horizontal table. The particles are moving in opposite directions towards each other when they collide directly.

As a result of the collision, the direction of motion of each particle is reversed.

Immediately before the collision, the speed of \(A\) is \(u\) and the speed of \(B\) is \(ku\), where \(k\) is a constant.

Immediately after the collision, the speed of \(A\) is \(2v\) and the speed of \(B\) is \(3v\).

The magnitude of the impulse received by \(A\) in the collision is \(20mv\).

(a) Find \(u\) in terms of \(v\) only. (3)
(b) Find the exact value of \(k\). (3)

A2 June 2024 Q4

4. A particle \(A\) of mass \(2m\) is moving in a straight line with speed \(3u\) on a smooth horizontal plane. Particle \(A\) collides directly with a particle \(B\) of mass \(m\) which is at rest on the plane.

The coefficient of restitution between \(A\) and \(B\) is \(e\), where \(e \gt 0\)

(a) Show that the speed of \(B\) immediately after the collision is \(2u(1 + e)\). (6)

After the collision, \(B\) hits a smooth fixed vertical wall which is perpendicular to the direction of motion of \(B\).

(b) Show that there will be a second collision between \(A\) and \(B\). (3)

The coefficient of restitution between \(B\) and the wall is \(\dfrac{1}{2}\)

Find, in simplified form, in terms of \(m\), \(u\) and \(e\),

(c) the magnitude of the impulse received by \(B\) in its collision with the wall, (3)
(d) the loss in kinetic energy of \(B\) due to its collision with the wall. (3)

AS June 2024 Q4

4.

Figure 2: a vertical wall on the left of a horizontal plane, with particle P of mass m and particle Q of mass 4m at rest on the plane, P nearer the wall
Figure 2

A particle \(P\) of mass \(m\) and a particle \(Q\) of mass \(4m\) are at rest on a smooth horizontal plane, as shown in Figure 2.

Particle \(P\) is projected with speed \(u\) along the plane towards \(Q\) and the particles collide.

The coefficient of restitution between the particles is \(e\), where \(e \gt \dfrac{1}{4}\)

As a result of the collision, the direction of motion of \(P\) is reversed and \(P\) has speed \(\dfrac{u}{5}(4e-1)\).

(a) Find, in terms of \(u\) and \(e\), the speed of \(Q\) after the collision. (3)

After the collision, \(P\) goes on to hit a vertical wall which is fixed at right angles to the direction of motion of \(P\).

The coefficient of restitution between \(P\) and the wall is \(f\), where \(f \gt 0\)

Given that \(e = \dfrac{3}{4}\)

(b) find, in terms of \(m\), \(u\) and \(f\), the kinetic energy lost by \(P\) as a result of its impact with the wall. Give your answer in its simplest form. (4)

After its impact with the wall, \(P\) goes on to collide with \(Q\) again.

(c) Find the complete range of possible values of \(f\). (4)

AS June 2024 Q1

EdexcelAS paperCurrent spec9 marksCollisions: 2 Spheres DirectImpulse & Momentum

1. A particle \(A\) has mass \(2m\) and a particle \(B\) has mass \(3m\). The particles are moving in opposite directions along the same straight line and collide directly.

Immediately before the collision, the speed of \(A\) is \(2u\) and the speed of \(B\) is \(u\).
Immediately after the collision, the speed of \(A\) is \(0.5u\) and the speed of \(B\) is \(w\).

Given that the direction of motion of each particle is reversed by the collision,

(a) find \(w\) in terms of \(u\) (3)
(b) find the coefficient of restitution between the particles, (3)
(c) find, in terms of \(m\) and \(u\), the magnitude of the impulse received by \(A\) in the collision. (3)

AS June 2023 Q4

EdexcelAS paperCurrent spec14 marksCollisions: 2 Spheres Direct

4.

Figure 1: three particles P, Q and R at rest in a straight line on a horizontal plane, with Q between P and R
Figure 1

Three particles, \(P\), \(Q\) and \(R\), lie at rest on a smooth horizontal plane. The particles are in a straight line with \(Q\) between \(P\) and \(R\), as shown in Figure 1.

Particle \(P\) is projected towards \(Q\) with speed \(u\). At the same time, \(R\) is projected with speed \(\dfrac{1}{2}u\) away from \(Q\), in the direction \(QR\).

Particle \(P\) has mass \(m\) and particle \(Q\) has mass \(2m\).

The coefficient of restitution between \(P\) and \(Q\) is \(e\).

(a) Show that the speed of \(Q\) immediately after the collision between \(P\) and \(Q\) is
\(\dfrac{u(1+e)}{3}\) (6)

It is given that \(e \gt \dfrac{1}{2}\)

(b) Determine whether there is a collision between \(Q\) and \(R\). (2)
(c) Determine the direction of motion of \(P\) immediately after the collision between \(P\) and \(Q\). (2)
(d) Find, in terms of \(m\), \(u\) and \(e\), the total kinetic energy lost in the collision between \(P\) and \(Q\), simplifying your answer. (3)
(e) Explain how using \(e = 1\) could be used to check your answer to part (d). (1)

A2 June 2023 Q3

3. A particle \(P\) of mass \(2m\) is moving in a straight line with speed \(3u\) on a smooth horizontal plane. It collides directly with a particle \(Q\) of mass \(m\) that is moving on the plane with speed \(2u\) in the opposite direction to \(P\).

The coefficient of restitution between \(P\) and \(Q\) is \(e\), where \(e > \dfrac{4}{5}\)

(a) Show that the speed of \(Q\) immediately after the collision is \(\dfrac{(4 + 10e)u}{3}\) (6)

After the collision \(Q\) hits a smooth fixed vertical wall that is perpendicular to the direction of motion of \(Q\). The coefficient of restitution between \(Q\) and the wall is \(f\).

(b) Find, in terms of \(e\), the set of values of \(f\) for which there will be a second collision between \(P\) and \(Q\). (4)

AS June 2023 Q1

EdexcelAS paperCurrent spec8 marksCollisions: 2 Spheres DirectImpulse & Momentum

1. Two particles, \(P\) and \(Q\), of masses \(3m\) and \(2m\) respectively, are moving on a smooth horizontal plane. They are moving in opposite directions along the same straight line when they collide directly.

Immediately before the collision, \(P\) is moving with speed \(2u\).

The magnitude of the impulse exerted on \(P\) by \(Q\) in the collision is \(\dfrac{9mu}{2}\)

(a) Find the speed of \(P\) immediately after the collision. (3)

The coefficient of restitution between \(P\) and \(Q\) is \(e\).

Given that the speed of \(Q\) immediately before the collision is \(u\),

(b) find the value of \(e\). (5)

A2 June 2022 Q5

5. Two particles, \(P\) and \(Q\), are moving in opposite directions along the same straight line on a smooth horizontal surface when they collide directly.
The mass of \(P\) is \(3m\) and the mass of \(Q\) is \(4m\).
Immediately before the collision the speed of \(P\) is \(2u\) and the speed of \(Q\) is \(u\).
The coefficient of restitution between \(P\) and \(Q\) is \(e\).

(a) Show that the speed of \(Q\) immediately after the collision is \(\dfrac{u}{7}(9e + 2)\) (6)

After the collision with \(P\), particle \(Q\) collides directly with a fixed vertical wall and rebounds. The wall is perpendicular to the direction of motion of \(Q\).

The coefficient of restitution between \(Q\) and the wall is \(\dfrac{1}{2}\)

(b) Find the complete range of possible values of \(e\) for which there is a second collision between \(P\) and \(Q\). (4)

AS June 2022 Q4

4. A particle \(P\) of mass \(2m\) kg is moving with speed \(2u\ \text{m s}^{-1}\) on a smooth horizontal plane. Particle \(P\) collides with a particle \(Q\) of mass \(3m\) kg which is at rest on the plane. The coefficient of restitution between \(P\) and \(Q\) is \(e\). Immediately after the collision the speed of \(Q\) is \(v\ \text{m s}^{-1}\)

(a) Show that   \(v = \dfrac{4u(1+e)}{5}\) (6)
(b) Show that   \(\dfrac{4u}{5} \leqslant v \leqslant \dfrac{8u}{5}\) (2)

Given that the direction of motion of \(P\) is reversed by the collision,

(c) find, in terms of \(u\) and \(e\), the speed of \(P\) immediately after the collision. (2)

After the collision, \(Q\) hits a wall, that is fixed at right angles to the direction of motion of \(Q\), and rebounds.

The coefficient of restitution between \(Q\) and the wall is \(\dfrac{1}{6}\)

Given that \(P\) and \(Q\) collide again,

(d) find the full range of possible values of \(e\). (5)

AS June 2022 Q2

EdexcelAS paperCurrent spec8 marksCollisions: 2 Spheres DirectImpulse & Momentum

2. Two particles, \(A\) and \(B\), have masses \(m\) and \(3m\) respectively. The particles are moving in opposite directions along the same straight line on a smooth horizontal plane when they collide directly.

Immediately before they collide, \(A\) is moving with speed \(2u\) and \(B\) is moving with speed \(u\).

The direction of motion of each particle is reversed by the collision.

In the collision, the magnitude of the impulse exerted on \(A\) by \(B\) is \(\dfrac{9mu}{2}\)

(a) Find the value of the coefficient of restitution between \(A\) and \(B\). (7)
(b) Hence, write down the total loss in kinetic energy due to the collision, giving a reason for your answer. (1)

A2 June 2022 Q1

1. A particle \(A\) of mass \(3m\) and a particle \(B\) of mass \(m\) are moving along the same straight line on a smooth horizontal surface. The particles are moving in opposite directions towards each other when they collide directly.

Immediately before the collision, the speed of \(A\) is \(ku\) and the speed of \(B\) is \(u\).
Immediately after the collision, the speed of \(A\) is \(v\) and the speed of \(B\) is \(2v\).

The magnitude of the impulse received by \(B\) in the collision is \(\dfrac{3}{2}mu\).

(a) Find \(v\) in terms of \(u\) only. (3)
(b) Find the two possible values of \(k\). (5)

A2 October 2021 Q2

2. Two particles, \(A\) and \(B\), are moving in opposite directions along the same straight line on a smooth horizontal surface when they collide directly.

Particle \(A\) has mass \(5m\) and particle \(B\) has mass \(3m\).

The coefficient of restitution between \(A\) and \(B\) is \(e\), where \(e \gt 0\)

Immediately after the collision the speed of \(A\) is \(v\) and the speed of \(B\) is \(2v\).

Given that \(A\) and \(B\) are moving in the same direction after the collision,

(a) find the set of possible values of \(e\). (8)

Given also that the kinetic energy of \(A\) immediately after the collision is 16% of the kinetic energy of \(A\) immediately before the collision,

(b) find
(i) the value of \(e\),
(ii) the magnitude of the impulse received by \(A\) in the collision, giving your answer in terms of \(m\) and \(v\).
(6)

A2 October 2020 Q3

EdexcelCurrent spec14 marksCollisions: 2 Spheres Direct

3. Two particles, \(A\) and \(B\), have masses \(3m\) and \(4m\) respectively. The particles are moving in the same direction along the same straight line on a smooth horizontal surface when they collide directly. Immediately before the collision the speed of \(A\) is \(2u\) and the speed of \(B\) is \(u\).

The coefficient of restitution between \(A\) and \(B\) is \(e\).

(a) Show that the direction of motion of each of the particles is unchanged by the collision. (8)

After the collision with \(A\), particle \(B\) collides directly with a third particle, \(C\), of mass \(2m\), which is at rest on the surface.

The coefficient of restitution between \(B\) and \(C\) is also \(e\).

(b) Show that there will be a second collision between \(A\) and \(B\). (6)

AS October 2020 Q3

EdexcelAS paperCurrent spec12 marksCollisions: 2 Spheres DirectImpulse & Momentum

3. Three particles \(A\), \(B\) and \(C\) are at rest on a smooth horizontal plane. The particles lie along a straight line with \(B\) between \(A\) and \(C\).

Particle \(B\) has mass \(4m\) and particle \(C\) has mass \(km\), where \(k\) is a positive constant. Particle \(B\) is projected with speed \(u\) along the plane towards \(C\) and they collide directly.

The coefficient of restitution between \(B\) and \(C\) is \(\dfrac{1}{4}\)

(a) Find the range of values of \(k\) for which there would be no further collisions. (8)

The magnitude of the impulse on \(B\) in the collision between \(B\) and \(C\) is \(3mu\)

(b) Find the value of \(k\). (4)

AS October 2020 Q1

EdexcelAS paperCurrent spec5 marksCollisions: 2 Spheres DirectImpulse & Momentum

1. Two particles \(P\) and \(Q\) have masses \(m\) and \(4m\) respectively. The particles are at rest on a smooth horizontal plane. Particle \(P\) is given a horizontal impulse, of magnitude \(I\), in the direction \(PQ\). Particle \(P\) then collides directly with \(Q\). Immediately after this collision, \(P\) is at rest and \(Q\) has speed \(w\). The coefficient of restitution between the particles is \(e\).

(a) Find \(I\) in terms of \(m\) and \(w\). (2)
(b) Show that \(e = \dfrac{1}{4}\) (1)
(c) Find, in terms of \(m\) and \(w\), the total kinetic energy lost in the collision between \(P\) and \(Q\). (2)

A2 June 2019 Q5

EdexcelCurrent spec11 marksCollisions: 2 Spheres Direct

5. A particle \(P\) of mass \(3m\) and a particle \(Q\) of mass \(2m\) are moving along the same straight line on a smooth horizontal plane. The particles are moving in opposite directions towards each other and collide directly.

Immediately before the collision the speed of \(P\) is \(u\) and the speed of \(Q\) is \(2u\).

Immediately after the collision \(P\) and \(Q\) are moving in opposite directions.

The coefficient of restitution between \(P\) and \(Q\) is \(e\).

(a) Find the range of possible values of \(e\), justifying your answer. (8)

Given that \(Q\) loses 75% of its kinetic energy as a result of the collision,

(b) find the value of \(e\). (3)

AS June 2019 Q4

EdexcelAS paperCurrent spec10 marksCollisions: 2 Spheres Direct

4. Three particles, \(P\), \(Q\) and \(R\), are at rest on a smooth horizontal plane. The particles lie along a straight line with \(Q\) between \(P\) and \(R\). The particles \(Q\) and \(R\) have masses \(m\) and \(km\) respectively, where \(k\) is a constant.

Particle \(Q\) is projected towards \(R\) with speed \(u\) and the particles collide directly.

The coefficient of restitution between each pair of particles is \(e\).

(a) Find, in terms of \(e\), the range of values of \(k\) for which there is a second collision. (9)

Given that the mass of \(P\) is \(km\) and that there is a second collision,

(b) write down, in terms of \(u\), \(k\) and \(e\), the speed of \(Q\) after this second collision. (1)

AS June 2019 Q2

EdexcelAS paperCurrent spec13 marksCollisions: 2 Spheres DirectImpulse & Momentum

2. Two particles, \(A\) and \(B\), of masses \(2m\) and \(3m\) respectively, are moving on a smooth horizontal plane. The particles are moving in opposite directions towards each other along the same straight line when they collide directly. Immediately before the collision the speed of \(A\) is \(2u\) and the speed of \(B\) is \(u\). In the collision the impulse of \(A\) on \(B\) has magnitude \(5mu\).

(a) Find the coefficient of restitution between \(A\) and \(B\). (9)
(b) Find the total loss in kinetic energy due to the collision. (4)

AS June 2018 Q4

4. A particle \(P\) of mass \(3m\) is moving in a straight line on a smooth horizontal floor. A particle \(Q\) of mass \(5m\) is moving in the opposite direction to \(P\) along the same straight line.

The particles collide directly.

Immediately before the collision, the speed of \(P\) is \(2u\) and the speed of \(Q\) is \(u\).
The coefficient of restitution between \(P\) and \(Q\) is \(e\).

(a) Show that the speed of \(Q\) immediately after the collision is \(\dfrac{u}{8}(9e + 1)\) (6)
(b) Find the range of values of \(e\) for which the direction of motion of \(P\) is not changed as a result of the collision. (2)

When \(P\) and \(Q\) collide they are at a distance \(d\) from a smooth fixed vertical wall, which is perpendicular to their direction of motion. After the collision with \(P\), particle \(Q\) collides directly with the wall and rebounds so that there is a second collision between \(P\) and \(Q\). This second collision takes place at a distance \(x\) from the wall.

Given that \(e = \dfrac{1}{18}\) and the coefficient of restitution between \(Q\) and the wall is \(\dfrac{1}{3}\)

(c) find \(x\) in terms of \(d\). (6)

M2 June 2018 Q5

5. A particle \(A\) of mass \(3m\) is moving in a straight line with speed \(2u\) on a smooth horizontal floor. Particle \(A\) collides directly with another particle \(B\) of mass \(2m\) which is moving along the same straight line with speed \(u\) but in the opposite direction to \(A\). The coefficient of restitution between \(A\) and \(B\) is \(\dfrac{1}{3}\).

(a)
(i) Show that the speed of \(B\) immediately after the collision is \(\dfrac{7}{5}u\)
(ii) Find the speed of \(A\) immediately after the collision. (7)

After the collision, \(B\) hits a smooth vertical wall which is perpendicular to the direction of motion of \(B\). The coefficient of restitution between \(B\) and the wall is \(\dfrac{1}{2}\). The first collision between \(A\) and \(B\) occurred at a distance \(x\) from the wall. The particles collide again at a distance \(y\) from the wall.

(b) Find \(y\) in terms of \(x\). (6)

M2 June 2017 Q7

7. Two particles \(A\) and \(B\), of masses \(3m\) and \(4m\) respectively, lie at rest on a smooth horizontal surface. Particle \(B\) lies between \(A\) and a smooth vertical wall which is perpendicular to the line joining \(A\) and \(B\). Particle \(B\) is projected with speed \(5u\) in a direction perpendicular to the wall and collides with the wall. The coefficient of restitution between \(B\) and the wall is \(\dfrac{3}{5}\).

(a) Find the magnitude of the impulse received by \(B\) in the collision with the wall. (3)

After the collision with the wall, \(B\) rebounds from the wall and collides directly with \(A\). The coefficient of restitution between \(A\) and \(B\) is \(e\).

(b) Show that, immediately after they collide, \(A\) and \(B\) are both moving in the same direction. (7)

The kinetic energy of \(B\) immediately after it collides with \(A\) is one quarter of the kinetic energy of \(B\) immediately before it collides with \(A\).

(c) Find the value of \(e\). (4)

M2 June 2016 Q7

7. Two particles \(A\) and \(B\), of mass \(2m\) and \(3m\) respectively, are initially at rest on a smooth horizontal surface. Particle \(A\) is projected with speed \(3u\) towards \(B\). Particle \(A\) collides directly with particle \(B\). The coefficient of restitution between \(A\) and \(B\) is \(\dfrac{3}{4}\)

(a) Find
(i) the speed of \(A\) immediately after the collision,
(ii) the speed of \(B\) immediately after the collision. (7)

After the collision \(B\) hits a fixed smooth vertical wall and rebounds. The wall is perpendicular to the direction of motion of \(B\). The coefficient of restitution between \(B\) and the wall is \(e\). The magnitude of the impulse received by \(B\) when it hits the wall is \(\dfrac{27}{4}mu\).

(b) Find the value of \(e\). (3)
(c) Determine whether there is a further collision between \(A\) and \(B\) after \(B\) rebounds from the wall. (2)

M2 June 2015 Q8

EdexcelOld spec13 marksCollisions: 2 Spheres Direct

8. Three identical particles \(P\), \(Q\) and \(R\), each of mass \(m\), lie in a straight line on a smooth horizontal plane with \(Q\) between \(P\) and \(R\). Particles \(P\) and \(Q\) are projected directly towards each other with speeds \(4u\) and \(2u\) respectively, and at the same time particle \(R\) is projected along the line away from \(Q\) with speed \(3u\). The coefficient of restitution between each pair of particles is \(e\). After the collision between \(P\) and \(Q\) there is a collision between \(Q\) and \(R\).

(a) Show that \(e > \dfrac{2}{3}\) (7)

It is given that \(e = \dfrac{3}{4}\)

(b) Show that there will not be a further collision between \(P\) and \(Q\). (6)

M2 June 2014 (R) Q7

EdexcelOld spec14 marksCollisions: 2 Spheres Direct

7. A particle \(P\) of mass \(2m\) is moving in a straight line with speed \(3u\) on a smooth horizontal table. A second particle \(Q\) of mass \(3m\) is moving in the opposite direction to \(P\) along the same straight line with speed \(u\). The particle \(P\) collides directly with \(Q\). The direction of motion of \(P\) is reversed by the collision. The coefficient of restitution between \(P\) and \(Q\) is \(e\).

(a) Show that the speed of \(Q\) immediately after the collision is \(\dfrac{u}{5}(8e + 3)\) (6)
(b) Find the range of possible values of \(e\). (4)

The total kinetic energy of the particles before the collision is \(T\). The total kinetic energy of the particles after the collision is \(kT\). Given that \(e = \dfrac{1}{2}\)

(c) find the value of \(k\). (4)

M2 June 2013 (R) Q5

EdexcelOld spec13 marksCollisions: 2 Spheres Direct

5. Two particles \(P\) and \(Q\), of masses \(2m\) and \(m\) respectively, are on a smooth horizontal table. Particle \(Q\) is at rest and particle \(P\) collides directly with it when moving with speed \(u\). After the collision the total kinetic energy of the two particles is \(\dfrac{3}{4}mu^2\). Find

(a) the speed of \(Q\) immediately after the collision, (10)
(b) the coefficient of restitution between the particles. (3)

M2 June 2013 Q7

EdexcelOld spec15 marksCollisions: 2 Spheres Direct

7. Three particles \(P\), \(Q\) and \(R\) lie at rest in a straight line on a smooth horizontal table with \(Q\) between \(P\) and \(R\). The particles \(P\), \(Q\) and \(R\) have masses \(2m\), \(3m\) and \(4m\) respectively. Particle \(P\) is projected towards \(Q\) with speed \(u\) and collides directly with it. The coefficient of restitution between each pair of particles is \(e\).

(a) Show that the speed of \(Q\) immediately after the collision with \(P\) is \(\dfrac{2}{5}(1 + e)u\). (6)

After the collision between \(P\) and \(Q\) there is a direct collision between \(Q\) and \(R\).

Given that \(e = \dfrac{3}{4}\), find

(b)
(i) the speed of \(Q\) after this collision,
(ii) the speed of \(R\) after this collision. (6)

Immediately after the collision between \(Q\) and \(R\), the rate of increase of the distance between \(P\) and \(R\) is \(V\).

(c) Find \(V\) in terms of \(u\). (3)

M2 January 2013 Q7

EdexcelOld spec16 marksCollisions: 2 Spheres Direct

7. A particle \(A\) of mass \(m\) is moving with speed \(u\) on a smooth horizontal floor when it collides directly with another particle \(B\), of mass \(3m\), which is at rest on the floor. The coefficient of restitution between the particles is \(e\). The direction of motion of \(A\) is reversed by the collision.

(a) Find, in terms of \(e\) and \(u\),
(i) the speed of \(A\) immediately after the collision,
(ii) the speed of \(B\) immediately after the collision. (7)

After being struck by \(A\) the particle \(B\) collides directly with another particle \(C\), of mass \(4m\), which is at rest on the floor. The coefficient of restitution between \(B\) and \(C\) is \(2e\). Given that the direction of motion of \(B\) is reversed by this collision,

(b) find the range of possible values of \(e\), (6)
(c) determine whether there will be a second collision between \(A\) and \(B\). (3)

M2 June 2012 Q2

EdexcelOld spec11 marksCollisions: 2 Spheres Direct

2. A particle \(P\) of mass \(3m\) is moving with speed \(2u\) in a straight line on a smooth horizontal plane. The particle \(P\) collides directly with a particle \(Q\) of mass \(4m\) moving on the plane with speed \(u\) in the opposite direction to \(P\). The coefficient of restitution between \(P\) and \(Q\) is \(e\).

(a) Find the speed of \(Q\) immediately after the collision. (6)

Given that the direction of motion of \(P\) is reversed by the collision,

(b) find the range of possible values of \(e\). (5)

M2 January 2012 Q6

EdexcelOld spec15 marksCollisions: 2 Spheres Direct

6. Three identical particles, \(A\), \(B\) and \(C\), lie at rest in a straight line on a smooth horizontal table with \(B\) between \(A\) and \(C\). The mass of each particle is \(m\). Particle \(A\) is projected towards \(B\) with speed \(u\) and collides directly with \(B\). The coefficient of restitution between each pair of particles is \(\frac{2}{3}\).

(a) Find, in terms of \(u\),
(i) the speed of \(A\) after this collision,
(ii) the speed of \(B\) after this collision. (7)
(b) Show that the kinetic energy lost in this collision is \(\dfrac{5}{36}mu^2\) (4)

After the collision between \(A\) and \(B\), particle \(B\) collides directly with \(C\).

(c) Find, in terms of \(u\), the speed of \(C\) immediately after this collision between \(B\) and \(C\). (4)

M2 June 2011 Q2

EdexcelOld spec8 marksCollisions: 2 Spheres Direct

2. A particle \(P\) of mass \(m\) is moving in a straight line on a smooth horizontal surface with speed \(4u\). The particle \(P\) collides directly with a particle \(Q\) of mass \(3m\) which is at rest on the surface. The coefficient of restitution between \(P\) and \(Q\) is \(e\). The direction of motion of \(P\) is reversed by the collision.

Show that \(e > \dfrac{1}{3}\). (8)

M2 January 2011 Q8

8. A particle \(P\) of mass \(m\) kg is moving with speed 6 m s\(^{-1}\) in a straight line on a smooth horizontal floor. The particle strikes a fixed smooth vertical wall at right angles and rebounds. The kinetic energy lost in the impact is 64 J. The coefficient of restitution between \(P\) and the wall is \(\frac{1}{3}\).

(a) Show that \(m = 4\). (6)

After rebounding from the wall, \(P\) collides directly with a particle \(Q\) which is moving towards \(P\) with speed 3 m s\(^{-1}\). The mass of \(Q\) is 2 kg and the coefficient of restitution between \(P\) and \(Q\) is \(\frac{1}{3}\).

(b) Show that there will be a second collision between \(P\) and the wall. (7)

M2 June 2010 Q8

8. A small ball \(A\) of mass \(3m\) is moving with speed \(u\) in a straight line on a smooth horizontal table. The ball collides directly with another small ball \(B\) of mass \(m\) moving with speed \(u\) towards \(A\) along the same straight line. The coefficient of restitution between \(A\) and \(B\) is \(\frac{1}{2}\). The balls have the same radius and can be modelled as particles.

(a) Find
(i) the speed of \(A\) immediately after the collision,
(ii) the speed of \(B\) immediately after the collision. (7)

After the collision \(B\) hits a smooth vertical wall which is perpendicular to the direction of motion of \(B\). The coefficient of restitution between \(B\) and the wall is \(\frac{2}{5}\).

(b) Find the speed of \(B\) immediately after hitting the wall. (2)

The first collision between \(A\) and \(B\) occurred at a distance \(4a\) from the wall. The balls collide again \(T\) seconds after the first collision.

(c) Show that \(T = \dfrac{112a}{15u}\). (6)

M2 January 2010 Q2

EdexcelOld spec7 marksCollisions: 2 Spheres Direct

2. Two particles, \(P\), of mass \(2m\), and \(Q\), of mass \(m\), are moving along the same straight line on a smooth horizontal plane. They are moving in opposite directions towards each other and collide. Immediately before the collision the speed of \(P\) is \(2u\) and the speed of \(Q\) is \(u\). The coefficient of restitution between the particles is \(e\), where \(e < 1\). Find, in terms of \(u\) and \(e\),

(i) the speed of \(P\) immediately after the collision,
(ii) the speed of \(Q\) immediately after the collision. (7)

M2 June 2009 Q8

EdexcelOld spec12 marksCollisions: 2 Spheres Direct

8. Particles \(A\), \(B\) and \(C\) of masses \(4m\), \(3m\) and \(m\) respectively, lie at rest in a straight line on a smooth horizontal plane with \(B\) between \(A\) and \(C\). Particles \(A\) and \(B\) are projected towards each other with speeds \(u\) m s\(^{-1}\) and \(v\) m s\(^{-1}\) respectively, and collide directly.

As a result of the collision, \(A\) is brought to rest and \(B\) rebounds with speed \(kv\) m s\(^{-1}\). The coefficient of restitution between \(A\) and \(B\) is \(\dfrac{3}{4}\).

(a) Show that \(u = 3v\). (6)
(b) Find the value of \(k\). (2)

Immediately after the collision between \(A\) and \(B\), particle \(C\) is projected with speed \(2v\) m s\(^{-1}\) towards \(B\) so that \(B\) and \(C\) collide directly.

(c) Show that there is no further collision between \(A\) and \(B\). (4)

M2 January 2009 Q7

7. A particle \(P\) of mass \(3m\) is moving in a straight line with speed \(2u\) on a smooth horizontal table. It collides directly with another particle \(Q\) of mass \(2m\) which is moving with speed \(u\) in the opposite direction to \(P\). The coefficient of restitution between \(P\) and \(Q\) is \(e\).

(a) Show that the speed of \(Q\) immediately after the collision is \(\tfrac{1}{5}(9e + 4)u\). (5)

The speed of \(P\) immediately after the collision is \(\tfrac{1}{2}u\).

(b) Show that \(e = \tfrac{1}{4}\). (4)

The collision between \(P\) and \(Q\) takes place at the point \(A\). After the collision \(Q\) hits a smooth fixed vertical wall which is at right-angles to the direction of motion of \(Q\). The distance from \(A\) to the wall is \(d\).

(c) Show that \(P\) is a distance \(\tfrac{3}{5}d\) from the wall at the instant when \(Q\) hits the wall. (4)

Particle \(Q\) rebounds from the wall and moves so as to collide directly with particle \(P\) at the point \(B\). Given that the coefficient of restitution between \(Q\) and the wall is \(\tfrac{1}{5}\),

(d) find, in terms of \(d\), the distance of the point \(B\) from the wall. (4)

M2 June 2008 Q2

EdexcelOld spec9 marksCollisions: 2 Spheres Direct

2. A particle \(A\) of mass \(4m\) is moving with speed \(3u\) in a straight line on a smooth horizontal table. The particle \(A\) collides directly with a particle \(B\) of mass \(3m\) moving with speed \(2u\) in the same direction as \(A\). The coefficient of restitution between \(A\) and \(B\) is \(e\). Immediately after the collision the speed of \(B\) is \(4eu\).

(a) Show that \(e = \dfrac{3}{4}\). (5)
(b) Find the total kinetic energy lost in the collision. (4)

M2 January 2008 Q7

EdexcelOld spec17 marksCollisions: 2 Spheres Direct

7. A particle \(P\) of mass \(2m\) is moving with speed \(2u\) in a straight line on a smooth horizontal plane. A particle \(Q\) of mass \(3m\) is moving with speed \(u\) in the same direction as \(P\). The particles collide directly. The coefficient of restitution between \(P\) and \(Q\) is \(\tfrac{1}{2}\).

(a) Show that the speed of \(Q\) immediately after the collision is \(\tfrac{8}{5}u\). (5)
(b) Find the total kinetic energy lost in the collision. (5)

After the collision between \(P\) and \(Q\), the particle \(Q\) collides directly with a particle \(R\) of mass \(m\) which is at rest on the plane. The coefficient of restitution between \(Q\) and \(R\) is \(e\).

(c) Calculate the range of values of \(e\) for which there will be a second collision between \(P\) and \(Q\). (7)

M2 June 2007 Q7

EdexcelOld spec13 marksCollisions: 2 Spheres Direct

7. Two small spheres \(P\) and \(Q\) of equal radius have masses \(m\) and \(5m\) respectively. They lie on a smooth horizontal table. Sphere \(P\) is moving with speed \(u\) when it collides directly with sphere \(Q\) which is at rest. The coefficient of restitution between the spheres is \(e\), where \(e > \dfrac{1}{5}\).

(a)
(i) Show that the speed of \(P\) immediately after the collision is \(\dfrac{u}{6}(5e - 1)\).
(ii) Find an expression for the speed of \(Q\) immediately after the collision, giving your answer in the form \(\lambda u\), where \(\lambda\) is in terms of \(e\). (6)

Three small spheres \(A\), \(B\) and \(C\) of equal radius lie at rest in a straight line on a smooth horizontal table, with \(B\) between \(A\) and \(C\). The spheres \(A\) and \(C\) each have mass \(5m\), and the mass of \(B\) is \(m\). Sphere \(B\) is projected towards \(C\) with speed \(u\). The coefficient of restitution between each pair of spheres is \(\dfrac{4}{5}\).

(b) Show that, after \(B\) and \(C\) have collided, there is a collision between \(B\) and \(A\). (3)
(c) Determine whether, after \(B\) and \(A\) have collided, there is a further collision between \(B\) and \(C\). (4)

M2 January 2007 Q4

EdexcelOld spec12 marksCollisions: 2 Spheres Direct

4. A particle \(P\) of mass \(m\) is moving in a straight line on a smooth horizontal table. Another particle \(Q\) of mass \(km\) is at rest on the table. The particle \(P\) collides directly with \(Q\). The direction of motion of \(P\) is reversed by the collision. After the collision, the speed of \(P\) is \(v\) and the speed of \(Q\) is \(3v\). The coefficient of restitution between \(P\) and \(Q\) is \(\tfrac{1}{2}\).

(a) Find, in terms of \(v\) only, the speed of \(P\) before the collision. (3)
(b) Find the value of \(k\). (3)

After being struck by \(P\), the particle \(Q\) collides directly with a particle \(R\) of mass \(11m\) which is at rest on the table. After this second collision, \(Q\) and \(R\) have the same speed and are moving in opposite directions. Show that

(c) the coefficient of restitution between \(Q\) and \(R\) is \(\tfrac{3}{4}\), (4)
(d) there will be a further collision between \(P\) and \(Q\). (2)

M2 June 2006 Q8

8. Two particles \(A\) and \(B\) move on a smooth horizontal table. The mass of \(A\) is \(m\), and the mass of \(B\) is \(4m\). Initially \(A\) is moving with speed \(u\) when it collides directly with \(B\), which is at rest on the table. As a result of the collision, the direction of motion of \(A\) is reversed. The coefficient of restitution between the particles is \(e\).

(a) Find expressions for the speed of \(A\) and the speed of \(B\) immediately after the collision. (7)

In the subsequent motion, \(B\) strikes a smooth vertical wall and rebounds. The wall is perpendicular to the direction of motion of \(B\). The coefficient of restitution between \(B\) and the wall is \(\tfrac{4}{5}\). Given that there is a second collision between \(A\) and \(B\),

(b) show that \(\tfrac{1}{4} < e < \tfrac{9}{16}\). (5)

Given that \(e = \tfrac{1}{2}\),

(c) find the total kinetic energy lost in the first collision between \(A\) and \(B\). (3)

M2 January 2006 Q4

4. A particle \(A\) of mass \(2m\) is moving with speed \(3u\) in a straight line on a smooth horizontal table. The particle collides directly with a particle \(B\) of mass \(m\) moving with speed \(2u\) in the opposite direction to \(A\). Immediately after the collision the speed of \(B\) is \(\tfrac{8}{3}u\) and the direction of motion of \(B\) is reversed.

(a) Calculate the coefficient of restitution between \(A\) and \(B\). (6)
(b) Show that the kinetic energy lost in the collision is \(7mu^2\). (3)

After the collision \(B\) strikes a fixed vertical wall that is perpendicular to the direction of motion of \(B\). The magnitude of the impulse of the wall on \(B\) is \(\tfrac{14}{3}mu\).

(c) Calculate the coefficient of restitution between \(B\) and the wall. (4)

M2 June 2005 Q5

EdexcelOld spec14 marksCollisions: 2 Spheres Direct

5. Two small spheres \(A\) and \(B\) have mass \(3m\) and \(2m\) respectively. They are moving towards each other in opposite directions on a smooth horizontal plane, both with speed \(2u\), when they collide directly. As a result of the collision, the direction of motion of \(B\) is reversed and its speed is unchanged.

(a) Find the coefficient of restitution between the spheres. (7)

Subsequently, \(B\) collides directly with another small sphere \(C\) of mass \(5m\) which is at rest. The coefficient of restitution between \(B\) and \(C\) is \(\tfrac{3}{5}\).

(b) Show that, after \(B\) collides with \(C\), there will be no further collisions between the spheres. (7)

M2 January 2005 Q6

6. A particle \(P\) of mass \(3m\) is moving with speed \(2u\) in a straight line on a smooth horizontal table. The particle \(P\) collides with a particle \(Q\) of mass \(2m\) moving with speed \(u\) in the opposite direction to \(P\). The coefficient of restitution between \(P\) and \(Q\) is \(e\).

(a) Show that the speed of \(Q\) after the collision is \(\tfrac{1}{5}u(9e + 4)\). (5)

As a result of the collision, the direction of motion of \(P\) is reversed.

(b) Find the range of possible values of \(e\). (5)

Given that the magnitude of the impulse of \(P\) on \(Q\) is \(\tfrac{32}{5}mu\),

(c) find the value of \(e\). (4)