Centres of Mass

Edexcel

A2 June 2025 Q6

EdexcelCurrent spec12 marksCentres of Mass

6. A uniform semicircular lamina has radius \(r\) and the midpoint of the diameter of the lamina is at \(O\). The distance of the centre of mass of the lamina from \(O\) is \(d\).

(a) Use algebraic integration to show that \(d = \dfrac{4r}{3\pi}\) (4)

The uniform plane template \(T\), shown shaded in Figure 7, is formed from a rectangle and a semicircular ring.
The rectangle has \(AD = BC = 2a\) and \(AB = DC = 8a\).
The midpoint of \(CD\) is \(O\).
The semicircular ring has centre \(O\), outer radius \(OD = 4a\) and inner radius \(OE = 2a\).
The template is modelled as a uniform lamina.

Figure 7: template T: rectangle ABCD with AB = 8a and AD = BC = 2a, joined along DC to a semicircular ring with centre O, outer radius 4a and inner radius 2a; E and F are the ends of the inner semicircle on DC
Figure 7
(b) Show that the distance of the centre of mass of \(T\) from \(DC\) is \(\dfrac{32a}{3(8 + 3\pi)}\) (5)

The template is freely suspended from \(A\). The weight of \(T\) is \(W\) newtons.
A horizontal force is applied to \(T\) at \(B\) so that \(T\) is held in equilibrium with \(AB\) vertical.
The force acts in the same vertical plane as \(T\) and has magnitude \(\lambda W\) newtons.

(c) Find the value of \(\lambda\) (3)

A2 June 2025 Q4

EdexcelCurrent spec9 marksCentres of Mass

4.

Figure 5: rectangle ACDF with AC = FD = 15a and AF = CD = 3a; B on AC with AB = 6a, BC = 9a; E on FD with FE = 9a, ED = 6a; line BE
Figure 5

The uniform rectangular lamina \(ACDF\) shown in Figure 5 has \(AC = FD = 15a\) and \(AF = CD = 3a\). The point \(B\) on \(AC\) is such that \(AB = 6a\). The point \(E\) on \(FD\) is such that \(ED = 6a\).

Figure 6: folded lamina: ABEF with AF = 3a at the top and AB = 6a vertical, and BEDC with BC horizontal, CD = 3a and ED = 6a; dashed line from F down to E
Figure 6

The rectangular lamina is folded along \(BE\) to form the folded lamina shown in Figure 6.
The folded lamina has \(AB\) perpendicular to \(BC\) and the two sections, \(ABEF\) and \(BEDC\), of the lamina lie in the same plane.

(a) Show that the distance of the centre of mass of the folded lamina from \(EF\) is \(\dfrac{2}{5}a\). (5)
(b) Explain why the centre of mass of the folded lamina lies on the perpendicular bisector of \(BE\). (1)

The folded lamina is freely suspended from \(F\) and hangs in equilibrium.

(c) Find the size of the angle between \(FE\) and the downward vertical. (3)

AS June 2025 Q3

EdexcelCurrent spec9 marksCentres of Mass

3. [In this question you may quote, without proof, the formula for the distance of the centre of mass of a circular arc from its centre.]

Figure 2: framework: A vertically above B with AB = 1.5a, C vertically below B with BC = 2a, BD horizontal with a right angle at B, straight wire AD, and a quarter-circle arc from D down to C
Figure 2

Uniform wire is used to form the rigid framework shown in Figure 2.

The framework consists of four straight pieces of wire, \(AB\), \(BC\), \(BD\) and \(AD\) and one piece in the shape of an arc of a circle, \(CD\).

In the framework

  • \(AB = 1.5a\) and \(BC = BD = 2a\)
  • \(CD\) is an arc of a circle of radius \(2a\) and centre \(B\)
  • \(ABC\) is a straight line and \(ABD\) is a right angle
  • \(A, B, C\) and \(D\) all lie in the same plane
(a) Show that the distance of the centre of mass of arc \(CD\) from \(AC\) is \(\dfrac{4a}{\pi}\) (2)
(b) Show that the distance of the centre of mass of the framework from \(AC\) is \(\dfrac{17a}{2(8+\pi)}\) (4)

The framework is freely pivoted at \(A\).

The framework is held in equilibrium, with \(BD\) horizontal, by an upward vertical force that is applied to the framework at \(D\).

The mass of the framework is \(M\).

The magnitude of the force exerted on the framework by the pivot at \(A\) is \(kMg\).

(c) Find the value of \(k\) giving your answer in terms of \(\pi\) in its simplest form. (3)

A2 June 2025 Q2

EdexcelCurrent spec7 marksCentres of Mass

2.

Figure 2: curve y = 1/x with the region between x = 2 and x = 4 under the curve shaded
Figure 2

The shaded region shown in Figure 2 is bounded by the curve with equation \(y = \dfrac{1}{x}\), the line with equation \(x = 2\), the line with equation \(x = 4\), and the \(x\)-axis.
This region is rotated through \(360^\circ\) about the \(x\)-axis to form a solid.

This solid is used to model a uniform solid pedestal of height 2 m, upper radius 0.5 m and base radius 0.25 m.

Given that the volume of the pedestal is \(\dfrac{\pi}{4}\ \text{m}^3\)

(a) show that the centre of mass of the pedestal is \((4 - 4\ln 2)\) m from its base. (4)
Figure 3: the pedestal standing with its smaller plane base on a rough plane inclined at angle alpha degrees to the horizontal
Figure 3

Diagram not drawn to scale

The pedestal is placed on a rough plane that is inclined at an angle \(\alpha^\circ\) to the horizontal. The plane base of the pedestal is in contact with the inclined plane, as shown in Figure 3.
The inclined plane is sufficiently rough to prevent the pedestal from sliding.

Given that the pedestal is on the point of toppling,

(b) find the value of \(\alpha\) (3)

A2 June 2025 Q1

EdexcelCurrent spec7 marksCentres of Mass

1.

Figure 1: framework ABCDE: AB and DC vertical sides of length 2a, BC horizontal base of length 2a, diagonal AC with midpoint E, and rod ED
Figure 1

A uniform rod is cut into six pieces. The pieces are used to form the framework \(ABCDE\) shown in Figure 1.

  • All the pieces of the framework lie in the same plane.
  • \(AB = BC = CD = 2a\)
  • \(AE = EC = ED = \sqrt{2}\,a\)
  • Point \(E\) is the midpoint of \(AC\)
  • Angle \(ABC\) = angle \(BCD = 90^\circ\)

The distance of the centre of mass of the framework from \(AB\) is \(d\)

(a) Show that \(d = \dfrac{12 + 7\sqrt{2}}{12 + 6\sqrt{2}}\,a\) (4)

The mass of the framework is \(M\). A particle of mass \(kM\) is attached to the framework at \(B\)

The distance of the centre of mass of the loaded framework from \(AB\) is \(a\)

(b) Find the value of \(k\) (3)

AS June 2025 Q1

EdexcelCurrent spec8 marksCentres of Mass

1.

Figure 1: rectangle ABCD with AB = 3a along the bottom and AD = 4a; the isosceles triangle ABE, with E vertically above the midpoint M of AB and EM = 3a, is removed, leaving the shaded lamina
Figure 1

A uniform plane lamina, shown shaded in Figure 1, is formed by removing an isosceles triangle \(ABE\) from a rectangle \(ABCD\).

  • The midpoint of \(AB\) is \(M\)
  • \(AB = 3a\)
  • \(AD = 4a\)
  • \(EM = 3a\)
  • \(AE = EB\)
(a) Show that the distance of the centre of mass of the lamina from \(AB\) is \(\dfrac{13a}{5}\) (5)

The lamina is suspended by a string attached to the lamina at \(D\).

The lamina hangs freely in equilibrium.

(b) Find, to the nearest degree, the angle between \(AD\) and the vertical. (3)

A2 June 2024 Q6

EdexcelCurrent spec13 marksCentres of Mass

6.

In this question you must show all stages of your working.

Solutions relying entirely on calculator technology are not acceptable.

Figure 4: shaded rectangle bounded by the x-axis, the y-axis, y = 2 and x = 6
Figure 4

The shaded region, shown in Figure 4, is bounded by the \(x\)-axis, the line with equation \(x = 6\), the line with equation \(y = 2\) and the \(y\)-axis.

This region is rotated through \(360^\circ\) about the \(x\)-axis to form a solid of revolution.
This solid is used to model a non-uniform cylinder of height 6 cm and radius 2 cm.

The mass per unit volume of the cylinder at the point \((x, y, z)\) is \(\lambda(x + 2)\ \text{kg cm}^{-3}\), where \(0 \leqslant x \leqslant 6\) and \(\lambda\) is a constant.

(a) Show that the mass of the cylinder is \(120\lambda\pi\) kg. (3)
(b) Show that the centre of mass of the cylinder is 3.6 cm from \(O\). (4)

The point \(O\) is the centre of one end of the cylinder. The point \(A\) is the centre of the other end of the cylinder.

A uniform solid hemisphere of radius 3 cm has density \(\lambda\ \text{kg cm}^{-3}\). The hemisphere is attached to the cylinder with the centre of its circular face in contact with the point \(A\) on the cylinder to form the model shown in Figure 5.

Figure 5: model: cylinder of length 6 cm and diameter 4 cm with end centres O and A, and a hemisphere of diameter 6 cm attached at A
Figure 5

The model is placed with the end containing \(O\) on a rough inclined plane which is inclined at angle \(\alpha^\circ\) to the horizontal. The plane is sufficiently rough to prevent the model from sliding. The model is on the point of toppling.

(c) Find the value of \(\alpha\). (6)

A2 June 2024 Q4

EdexcelCurrent spec12 marksCentres of Mass

4.

Figure 3: quarter-ellipse region R in the first quadrant under x^2/16 + y^2/36 = 1, with A at (4, 0) and B at (0, 6)
Figure 3

A uniform lamina \(OAB\) is in the shape of the region \(R\).
Region \(R\) lies in the first quadrant and is bounded by the curve with equation \(\dfrac{x^2}{16} + \dfrac{y^2}{36} = 1\), the \(x\)-axis, and the \(y\)-axis, as shown shaded in Figure 3.

The point \(A\) is the point of intersection of the curve and the \(x\)-axis.
The point \(B\) is the point of intersection of the curve and the \(y\)-axis.

One unit on each axis represents 1 m.

The area of \(R\) is \(6\pi\)

The centre of mass of \(R\) lies at the point with coordinates \((\bar{x}, \bar{y})\)

(a) Use algebraic integration to show that \(\bar{x} = \dfrac{16}{3\pi}\) (5)
(b) Use algebraic integration to find the exact value of \(\bar{y}\) (4)

The lamina is freely suspended from \(A\) and hangs in equilibrium with \(OA\) at angle \(\theta^\circ\) to the downward vertical.

(c) Find the value of \(\theta\) (3)

AS June 2024 Q4

EdexcelCurrent spec12 marksCentres of Mass

4.

Figure 3: right-angled triangle ABC with the right angle at A, AB horizontal along the top and AC = 6a vertical; rectangle DEFG with AD = a, DE = 2a and EF = 3a removed from the top edge, EB = 6a; the template is shaded
Figure 3

The uniform triangular lamina \(ABC\) has \(AB\) perpendicular to \(AC\), \(AB = 9a\) and \(AC = 6a\). The point \(D\) on \(AB\) is such that \(AD = a\).

The rectangle \(DEFG\), with \(DE = 2a\) and \(EF = 3a\), is removed from the lamina to form the template shown shaded in Figure 3.

The distance of the centre of mass of the template from \(AC\) is \(d\).

(a) Show that \(d = \dfrac{23}{7}a\) (3)

The template is freely suspended from \(A\) and hangs in equilibrium with \(AB\) at an angle \(\theta^\circ\) to the downward vertical through \(A\).

(b) Find the value of \(\theta\) (5)

A new piece, of exactly the same size and shape as the template, is cut from a lamina of a different uniform material. The template and the new piece are joined together to form the model shown in Figure 4. Both parts of the model lie in the same plane.

Figure 4: the shaded template ADGFEBC with AC vertical, joined along AC to the new piece CPQRSTA, its mirror image on the left with TS = 6a along the bottom, SR = 3a, RQ = 2a, PC = a; a horizontal force X is applied at T
Figure 4

The weight of \(CPQRSTA\) is \(W\)

The weight of \(ADGFEBC\) is \(4W\)

The model is freely suspended from \(A\).

A horizontal force of magnitude \(X\), acting in the same vertical plane as the model, is now applied to the model at \(T\) so that \(AC\) is vertical, as shown in Figure 4.

(c) Find \(X\) in terms of \(W\). (4)

A2 June 2024 Q2

EdexcelCurrent spec7 marksCentres of Mass

2.

Figure 1: framework ABCDEA: AC horizontal along the top with B its midpoint, ED horizontal below, and rods AE, EB, BD and DC; AB = AE = 4a
Figure 1

A uniform rod of length \(28a\) is cut into seven identical rods each of length \(4a\). These rods are joined together to form the rigid framework \(ABCDEA\) shown in Figure 1.

All seven rods lie in the same plane.

The distance of the centre of mass of the framework from \(ED\) is \(d\).

(a) Show that \(d = \dfrac{8\sqrt{3}}{7}a\) (4)

The weight of the framework is \(W\).

The framework is freely pivoted about a horizontal axis through \(C\).

The framework is held in equilibrium in a vertical plane, with \(AC\) vertical and \(A\) below \(C\), by a horizontal force that is applied to the framework at \(A\).

The force acts in the same vertical plane as the framework and has magnitude \(F\).

(b) Find \(F\) in terms of \(W\). (3)

AS June 2024 Q1

EdexcelCurrent spec7 marksCentres of Mass

1.

Figure 1: framework ABCDEF: rectangle with A, B, C along the top (AB = 4a, BC = 2a) and F, E, D along the bottom, AF = 4a, with a vertical rod BE
Figure 1

A uniform rod of length \(24a\) is cut into seven pieces which are used to form the framework \(ABCDEF\) shown in Figure 1.

It is given that

  • \(AF = BE = CD = AB = FE = 4a\)
  • \(BC = ED = 2a\)
  • the rods \(AF\), \(BE\) and \(CD\) are parallel
  • the rods \(AB\), \(BC\), \(FE\) and \(ED\) are parallel
  • \(AF\) is perpendicular to \(AB\)
  • the rods all lie in the same plane

The distance of the centre of mass of the framework from \(AF\) is \(d\).

(a) Show that \(d = \dfrac{19}{6}a\) (4)
(b) Find the distance of the centre of mass of the framework from \(A\). (3)

A2 June 2023 Q7

EdexcelCurrent spec13 marksCentres of Mass

7.

Figure 5: circle x^2 + y^2 = 4a^2 with the region between the line x = a and the curve, for x from a to 2a, shaded
Figure 5
Figure 6: toy: cone of height 4a m and base radius root 3 a m joined at its base to the plane face of a dome of height a m
Figure 6

The shaded region shown in Figure 5 is bounded by the line with equation \(x = a\) and the curve with equation \(x^2 + y^2 = 4a^2\)

This shaded region is rotated through \(180^\circ\) about the \(x\)-axis to form a solid of revolution.

This solid is used to model a dome with height \(a\) metres and base radius \(\sqrt{3}a\) metres.

The dome is modelled as being non-uniform with the mass per unit volume of the dome at the point \((x, y, z)\) equal to \(\dfrac{\lambda}{x^2}\ \text{kg m}^{-3}\), where \(a \leqslant x \leqslant 2a\) and \(\lambda\) is a constant.

(a) Show that the distance of the centre of mass of the dome from the centre of its plane face is \(\left(4\ln 2 - \dfrac{5}{2}\right)a\) metres. (6)

A solid uniform right circular cone has base radius \(\sqrt{3}a\) metres and perpendicular height \(4a\) metres. A toy is formed by attaching the plane surface of the dome to the plane surface of the cone, as shown in Figure 6.

The weight of the cone is \(kW\) and the weight of the dome is \(2W\)

The centre of mass of the toy is a distance \(d\) metres from the plane face of the dome.

(b) Show that \(d = \dfrac{|k + 5 - 8\ln 2|}{2 + k}a\) (4)

The toy is suspended from a point on the circumference of the plane face of the dome and hangs freely in equilibrium with the plane face of the dome at an angle \(\alpha\) to the downward vertical.

Given that \(\tan\alpha = \dfrac{1}{2\sqrt{3}}\)

(c) find the exact value of \(k\). (3)

A2 June 2023 Q5

EdexcelCurrent spec7 marksCentres of Mass

5.

Figure 3: region OAB in the first quadrant under y = 9 − x^2, with A at (0, 9) and B at (3, 0), shaded
Figure 3

A uniform lamina \(OAB\) is modelled by the finite region bounded by the \(x\)-axis, the \(y\)-axis and the curve with equation \(y = 9 - x^2\), for \(x \geqslant 0\), as shown shaded in Figure 3.
The unit of length on both axes is 1 m.

The area of the lamina is \(18\ \text{m}^2\)

(a) Show that the centre of mass of the lamina is 3.6 m from \(\boldsymbol{OB}\).

[ Solutions relying on calculator technology are not acceptable.]

(4)

A light string has one end attached to the lamina at \(O\) and the other end attached to the ceiling. A second light string has one end attached to the lamina at \(A\) and the other end attached to the ceiling.
The lamina hangs in equilibrium with the strings vertical and \(OA\) horizontal.
The weight of the lamina is \(W\)
The tension in the string attached to the lamina at \(A\) is \(\lambda W\)

(b) Find the value of \(\lambda\) (3)

AS June 2023 Q4

EdexcelCurrent spec14 marksCentres of Mass

4.

Figure 1: isosceles triangle ABC with AB = 18a horizontal at the top, M the midpoint of AB and C vertically below M with CM = 18a; triangle CDE, with D on MC, DE = 6a parallel to AB and CD = 12a, is removed from the left side, leaving the shaded lamina L
Figure 1

A uniform triangular lamina \(ABC\) is isosceles, with \(AC = BC\). The midpoint of \(AB\) is \(M\).
The length of \(AB\) is \(18a\) and the length of \(CM\) is \(18a\).

The triangular lamina \(CDE\), with \(DE = 6a\) and \(CD = 12a\), has \(ED\) parallel to \(AB\) and \(MDC\) is a straight line.

Triangle \(CDE\) is removed from triangle \(ABC\) to form the lamina \(L\), shown shaded in Figure 1.

The distance of the centre of mass of \(L\) from \(MC\) is \(d\).

(a) Show that \(d = \dfrac{4}{7}a\) (4)

The lamina \(L\) is suspended by two light inextensible strings. One string is attached to \(L\) at \(A\) and the other string is attached to \(L\) at \(B\).
The lamina hangs in equilibrium in a vertical plane with the strings vertical and \(AB\) horizontal.
The weight of \(L\) is \(W\)

(b) Find, in terms of \(W\), the tension in the string attached to \(L\) at \(B\) (3)

The string attached to \(L\) at \(B\) breaks, so that \(L\) is now suspended from \(A\).
When \(L\) is hanging in equilibrium in a vertical plane, the angle between \(AB\) and the downward vertical through \(A\) is \(\theta^\circ\)

(c) Find the value of \(\theta\) (7)

A2 June 2023 Q3

EdexcelCurrent spec9 marksCentres of Mass

3. [In this question you may quote, without proof, the formula for the distance of the centre of mass of a uniform circular arc from its centre.]

Figure 1: framework OABCO: OA vertical of length r, OB horizontal of length r, quarter-circle arc AB with centre O, BC vertical downwards of length r, and quarter-circle arc OC
Figure 1

Five pieces of a uniform wire are joined together to form the rigid framework \(OABCO\) shown in Figure 1, where

  • \(OA\), \(OB\) and \(BC\) are straight, with \(OA = OB = BC = r\)
  • arc \(AB\) is one quarter of a circle with centre \(O\) and radius \(r\)
  • arc \(OC\) is one quarter of a circle of radius \(r\)
  • all five pieces of wire lie in the same plane
(a) Show that the centre of mass of arc \(AB\) is a distance \(\dfrac{2r}{\pi}\) from \(OA\). (2)

Given that the distance of the centre of mass of the framework from \(OA\) is \(d\),

(b) show that \(d = \dfrac{7r}{2(3 + \pi)}\) (4)

The framework is freely pivoted at \(A\).

The framework is held in equilibrium, with \(AO\) vertical, by a horizontal force of magnitude \(F\) which is applied to the framework at \(C\).

Given that the weight of the framework is \(W\)

(c) find \(F\) in terms of \(W\) (3)

A2 June 2023 Q1

EdexcelCurrent spec6 marksCentres of Mass

1. Three particles of masses \(3m\), \(4m\) and \(km\) are positioned at the points with coordinates \((2a, 3a)\), \((a, 5a)\) and \((2\mu a, \mu a)\) respectively, where \(k\) and \(\mu\) are constants.

The centre of mass of the three particles is at the point with coordinates \((2a, 4a)\).

Find

(i) the value of \(k\)
(ii) the value of \(\mu\) (6)

AS June 2023 Q1

EdexcelCurrent spec9 marksCentres of Mass

1. Three particles of masses \(4m\), \(2m\) and \(km\) are placed at the points with coordinates \((-3, -1)\), \((6, 1)\) and \((-1, 5)\) respectively.

Given that the centre of mass of the three particles is at the point with coordinates \((\bar{x}, \bar{y})\)

(a) show that \(\bar{x} = \dfrac{-k}{k+6}\) (3)
(b) find \(\bar{y}\) in terms of \(k\). (2)

Given that the centre of mass of the three particles lies on the line with equation \(y = 2x + 3\)

(c) find the value of \(k\). (2)

A fourth particle is placed at the point with coordinates \((\lambda, 4)\).

Given that the centre of mass of the four particles also lies on the line with equation \(y = 2x + 3\)

(d) find the value of \(\lambda\). (2)

A2 June 2022 Q6

EdexcelCurrent spec10 marksCentres of Mass

6.

Figure 4: shaded triangle bounded by the x-axis from O to 9, the line x = 9 up to height 3, and the line y = one third x
Figure 4

The shaded region shown in Figure 4 is bounded by the \(x\)-axis, the line with equation \(x = 9\) and the line with equation \(y = \dfrac{1}{3}x\). This shaded region is rotated through \(360^\circ\) about the \(x\)-axis to form a solid of revolution. This solid of revolution is used to model a solid right circular cone of height 9 cm and base radius 3 cm.

The cone is non-uniform and the mass per unit volume of the cone at the point \((x, y, z)\) is \(\lambda x\ \text{kg cm}^{-3}\), where \(0 \leqslant x \leqslant 9\) and \(\lambda\) is constant.

(a) Find the distance of the centre of mass of the cone from its vertex. (6)

A toy is made by joining the circular plane face of the cone to the circular plane face of a uniform solid hemisphere of radius 3 cm, so that the centres of the two plane surfaces coincide.

The weight of the cone is \(W\) newtons and the weight of the hemisphere is \(kW\) newtons.

When the toy is placed on a smooth horizontal plane with any point of the curved surface of the hemisphere in contact with the plane, the toy will remain at rest.

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

A2 June 2022 Q5

EdexcelCurrent spec11 marksCentres of Mass

5.

Figure 3: shaded lamina: square ABCO with AB = BC = 3a, square ODEF above it to the right with FE = ED = 3a, and a quarter-circle sector ODC with centre O joining D to C; dashed lines OC and OD
Figure 3

The uniform plane lamina shown in Figure 3 is formed from two squares, \(ABCO\) and \(ODEF\), and a sector \(ODC\) of a circle with centre \(O\). Both squares have sides of length \(3a\) and \(AO\) is perpendicular to \(OF\). The radius of the sector is \(3a\)

[In part (a) you may use, without proof, any of the centre of mass formulae given in the formulae booklet.]

(a) Show that the distance of the centre of mass of the sector \(ODC\) from \(OC\) is \(\dfrac{4a}{\pi}\) (3)
(b) Find the distance of the centre of mass of the lamina from \(FC\) (4)

The lamina is freely suspended from \(F\) and hangs in equilibrium with \(FC\) at an angle \(\theta^\circ\) to the downward vertical.

(c) Find the value of \(\theta\) (4)

A2 June 2022 Q3

EdexcelCurrent spec7 marksCentres of Mass

3.

Figure 1: framework: A above B above C on a vertical line, with AB = BC = 3a; C, D and E on a horizontal line with CD = DE = 4a; F above D with DF = 3a and BF = 4a; AF = FE = 5a along the straight line AE, and CF = 5a
Figure 1

Nine uniform rods are joined together to form the rigid framework \(ABCDEFA\), with \(AB = BC = DF = 3a\), \(BF = CD = DE = 4a\) and \(AF = FE = CF = 5a\), as shown in Figure 1. All nine rods lie in the same plane.

The mass per unit length of each of the rods \(BF\), \(CF\) and \(DF\) is twice the mass per unit length of each of the other six rods.

(a) Find the distance of the centre of mass of the framework from \(AC\) (4)

The mass of the framework is \(M\). A particle of mass \(kM\) is attached to the framework at \(E\) to form a loaded framework.

When the loaded framework is freely suspended from \(F\), it hangs in equilibrium with \(CE\) horizontal.

(b) Find the exact value of \(k\) (3)

AS June 2022 Q2

EdexcelCurrent spec12 marksCentres of Mass

2.

Figure 2: framework: rectangle ABCD with AD = 2a vertical and DC = a, and a semicircular arc BEC of centre O on BC bulging outwards to the right, E furthest from BC
Figure 2

Uniform wire is used to form the framework shown in Figure 2.

In the framework

  • \(ABCD\) is a rectangle with \(AD = 2a\) and \(DC = a\)
  • \(BEC\) is a semicircular arc of radius \(a\) and centre \(O\), where \(O\) lies on \(BC\)

The diameter of the semicircle is \(BC\) and the point \(E\) is such that \(OE\) is perpendicular to \(BC\).

The points \(A\), \(B\), \(C\), \(D\) and \(E\) all lie in the same plane.

(a) Show that the distance of the centre of mass of the framework from \(BC\) is \[\dfrac{a}{6+\pi}\] (5)

The framework is freely suspended from \(A\) and hangs in equilibrium with \(AE\) at an angle \(\theta^\circ\) to the downward vertical.

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

The mass of the framework is \(M\).

A particle of mass \(kM\) is attached to the framework at \(B\).

The centre of mass of the loaded framework lies on \(OA\).

(c) Find the value of \(k\). (3)

A2 June 2022 Q1

EdexcelCurrent spec6 marksCentres of Mass

1. Three particles of masses \(2m\), \(3m\) and \(km\) are placed at the points with coordinates \((3a, 2a)\), \((a, -4a)\) and \((-3a, 4a)\) respectively.

The centre of mass of the three particles lies at the point with coordinates \((\bar{x}, \bar{y})\).

(a)
(i) Find \(\bar{x}\) in terms of \(a\) and \(k\)
(ii) Find \(\bar{y}\) in terms of \(a\) and \(k\) (4)

Given that the distance of the centre of mass of the three particles from the point \((0, 0)\) is \(\dfrac{1}{3}a\)

(b) find the possible values of \(k\) (2)

AS June 2022 Q1

EdexcelCurrent spec7 marksCentres of Mass

1.

Figure 1: isosceles trapezium ABCDEF with A, B, C, D along the top edge (AB = a, BC = 3a, CD = a) and F, E along the bottom, with F below B and E below C; the square BCEF is marked with dashed lines
Figure 1

A uniform plane lamina is in the shape of an isosceles trapezium \(ABCDEF\), as shown shaded in Figure 1.

  • \(BCEF\) is a square
  • \(AB = CD = a\)
  • \(BC = 3a\)
(a) Show that the distance of the centre of mass of the lamina from \(AD\) is \(\dfrac{11a}{8}\) (5)

The mass of the lamina is \(M\)

The lamina is suspended by two light vertical strings, one attached to the lamina at \(A\) and the other attached to the lamina at \(F\)

The lamina hangs freely in equilibrium, with \(BF\) horizontal.

(b) Find, in terms of \(M\) and \(g\), the tension in the string attached at \(A\) (2)

A2 October 2021 Q7

EdexcelCurrent spec9 marksCentres of Mass

7. [In this question, you may assume that the centre of mass of a circular arc, radius \(r\), with angle at centre \(2\alpha\), is a distance \(\dfrac{r\sin\alpha}{\alpha}\) from the centre.]

Figure 5: shaded sector OAB of a circle with centre O, radius OA = OB = a and a right angle at O
Figure 5

A thin non-uniform metal plate is in the shape of a sector \(OAB\) of a circle with centre \(O\) and radius \(a\). The angle \(AOB = \dfrac{\pi}{2}\), as shown in Figure 5.

The plate is modelled as a non-uniform lamina.

The mass per unit area of the lamina, at any point \(P\) of the lamina, is modelled as \(k(OP)^2\), where \(k = \dfrac{4\lambda}{\pi a^4}\) and \(\lambda\) is a constant.

Using the model,

(a) find the mass of the plate in terms of \(\lambda\), (5)
(b) find, in terms of \(a\), the distance of the centre of mass of the plate from \(O\). (4)

A2 October 2021 Q3

EdexcelCurrent spec6 marksCentres of Mass

3.

Figure 2: bowl: a solid hemisphere of radius 2a with a hemisphere of radius a removed from it, both with centre O on the plane face
Figure 2

A uniform solid hemisphere \(H\) has radius \(2a\). A solid hemisphere of radius \(a\) is removed from the hemisphere \(H\) to form a bowl. The plane faces of the hemispheres coincide and the centres of the two hemispheres coincide at the point \(O\), as shown in Figure 2.

The centre of mass of the bowl is at the point \(G\).

(a) Show that \(OG = \dfrac{45a}{56}\) (4)

Figure 3 below shows a cross-section of the bowl which is resting in equilibrium with a point \(P\) on its curved surface in contact with a rough plane. The plane is inclined to the horizontal at an angle \(\alpha\) and is sufficiently rough to prevent the bowl from slipping. The line \(OG\) is horizontal and the points \(O\), \(G\) and \(P\) lie in a vertical plane which passes through a line of greatest slope of the inclined plane.

Figure 3: cross-section of the bowl with its plane face vertical and OG horizontal, resting with its curved surface touching a plane inclined at angle alpha to the horizontal at the point P
Figure 3
(b) Find the size of \(\alpha\), giving your answer in degrees to 3 significant figures. (2)

A2 October 2021 Q1

EdexcelCurrent spec8 marksCentres of Mass

1.

Figure 1: letter P: shaded rectangle OABDE with OA = a along the bottom and OE = 4a up the left side; a shaded semicircle BCD on the upper part of the right side AD, with diameter BD = 2a and AB = 2a
Figure 1

A letter P from a shop sign is modelled as a uniform plane lamina which consists of a rectangular lamina, \(OABDE\), joined to a semicircular lamina, \(BCD\), along its diameter \(BD\).

\(OA = ED = a\), \(AB = 2a\), \(OE = 4a\), and the diameter \(BD = 2a\), as shown in Figure 1.

Using the model,

(a) find, in terms of \(\pi\) and \(a\), the distance of the centre of mass of the letter P,
from
(i) \(OE\)
(ii) \(OA\) (6)

The letter P is freely suspended from \(O\) and hangs in equilibrium. The angle between \(OE\) and the downward vertical is \(\alpha\).

Using the model,

(b) find the exact value of \(\tan\alpha\) (2)

A2 October 2020 Q4

EdexcelCurrent spec9 marksCentres of Mass

4.

Figure 3: composite solid: a cylinder of radius r and height 4r/3 with a hemisphere on top; O is the centre of the bottom plane face
Figure 3

A uniform solid cylinder of base radius \(r\) and height \(\dfrac{4}{3}r\) has the same density as a uniform solid hemisphere of radius \(r\). The plane face of the hemisphere is joined to a plane face of the cylinder to form the composite solid \(S\) shown in Figure 3. The point \(O\) is the centre of the plane face of \(S\).

(a) Show that the distance from \(O\) to the centre of mass of \(S\) is \(\dfrac{73}{72}r\) (4)

The solid \(S\) is placed with its plane face on a rough horizontal plane. The coefficient of friction between \(S\) and the plane is \(\mu\). A horizontal force \(P\) is applied to the highest point of \(S\). The magnitude of \(P\) is gradually increased.

(b) Find the range of values of \(\mu\) for which \(S\) will slide before it starts to tilt. (5)

A2 October 2020 Q2

EdexcelCurrent spec10 marksCentres of Mass

2.

Figure 1: the curve y = 8e^(-x) with the region R shaded between the curve and the x-axis from x = ln 2 to x = ln 5
Figure 1
Figure 2: lamina ABCD the same shape as R: AB along the bottom, AD and BC vertical with AD taller than BC, and the curved edge DC
Figure 2

A uniform plane figure \(R\), shown shaded in Figure 1, is bounded by the \(x\)-axis, the line with equation \(x = \ln 5\), the curve with equation \(y = 8\mathrm{e}^{-x}\) and the line with equation \(x = \ln 2\). The unit of length on each axis is one metre.

The area of \(R\) is \(2.4\ \text{m}^2\)

The centre of mass of \(R\) is at the point with coordinates \((\bar{x}, \bar{y})\).

(a) Use algebraic integration to show that \(\bar{y} = 1.4\) (4)

Figure 2 shows a uniform lamina \(ABCD\), which is the same size and shape as \(R\). The lamina is freely suspended from \(C\) and hangs in equilibrium with \(CB\) at an angle \(\theta^\circ\) to the downward vertical.

(b) Find the value of \(\theta\) (6)

A2 October 2020 Q1

EdexcelCurrent spec7 marksCentres of Mass

1. Three particles of masses \(3m\), \(4m\) and \(2m\) are placed at the points \((-2, 2)\), \((3, 1)\) and \((p, p)\) respectively.

The value of \(p\) is such that the distance of the centre of mass of the three particles from the point \((0, 0)\) is as small as possible.

Find the value of \(p\). (7)

AS October 2020 Q1

EdexcelCurrent spec15 marksCentres of Mass

1.

Figure 1: rectangle ABCD with A bottom left, B bottom right, C top right and D top left; AB = 2a and AD = a
Figure 1

Figure 1 shows a uniform rectangular lamina \(ABCD\) with \(AB = 2a\) and \(AD = a\)
The mass of the lamina is \(6m\).

A particle of mass \(2m\) is attached to the lamina at \(A\), a particle of mass \(m\) is attached to the lamina at \(B\) and a particle of mass \(3m\) is attached to the lamina at \(D\), to form a loaded lamina \(L\) of total mass \(12m\).

(a) Write down the distance of the centre of mass of \(L\) from \(AB\). You must give a reason for your answer. (2)
(b) Show that the distance of the centre of mass of \(L\) from \(AD\) is \(\dfrac{2a}{3}\) (3)

A particle of mass \(km\) is now also attached to \(L\) at \(D\) to form a new loaded lamina \(N\).

(c) Show that the distance of the centre of mass of \(N\) from \(AB\) is \(\dfrac{(k+6)a}{(k+12)}\) (4)

When \(N\) is freely suspended from \(A\) and is hanging in equilibrium, the side \(AB\) makes an angle \(\alpha\) with the vertical, where \(\tan\alpha = \dfrac{3}{2}\)

(d) Find the value of \(k\). (6)

A2 June 2019 Q5

EdexcelCurrent spec11 marksCentres of Mass

5.

Figure 4: the region R between the curve y^2 = 2x, the line y = 2 and the y-axis is shaded
Figure 4

The region \(R\), shown shaded in Figure 4, is bounded by part of the curve with equation \(y^2 = 2x\), the line with equation \(y = 2\) and the \(y\)-axis. The unit of length on both axes is one centimetre. A uniform solid, \(S\), is formed by rotating \(R\) through 360° about the \(y\)-axis.

Given that the volume of \(S\) is \(\dfrac{8}{5}\pi\ \text{cm}^3\),

(a) show that the centre of mass of \(S\) is \(\dfrac{1}{3}\) cm from its plane face. (4)

A uniform solid cylinder, \(C\), has base radius 2 cm and height 4 cm. The cylinder \(C\) is attached to \(S\) so that the plane face of \(S\) coincides with a plane face of \(C\), to form the paperweight \(P\), shown in Figure 5. The density of the material used to make \(S\) is three times the density of the material used to make \(C\).

Figure 5: paperweight P: the cylinder C, 4 cm by 4 cm in cross-section, with the solid S on top, its point uppermost
Figure 5

The plane face of \(P\) rests in equilibrium on a desk lid that is inclined at an angle \(\theta^\circ\) to the horizontal. The lid is sufficiently rough to prevent \(P\) from slipping. Given that \(P\) is on the point of toppling,

(b) find the value of \(\theta\). (7)

A2 June 2019 Q4

EdexcelCurrent spec12 marksCentres of Mass

4. A flagpole, \(AB\), is 4 m long. The flagpole is modelled as a non-uniform rod so that, at a distance \(x\) metres from \(A\), the mass per unit length of the flagpole, \(m\ \text{kg m}^{-1}\), is given by \(m = 18 - 3x\).

(a) Show that the mass of the flagpole is 48 kg. (3)
Figure 3: flagpole AB hinged at A on a vertical wall, at 45 degrees to the wall; a cable from the wall above A meets the pole at right angles at its midpoint; a ball at B
Figure 3

The end \(A\) of the flagpole is fixed to a point on a vertical wall. A cable has one end attached to the midpoint of the flagpole and the other end attached to a point on the wall that is vertically above \(A\). The cable is perpendicular to the flagpole. The flagpole and the cable lie in the same vertical plane that is perpendicular to the wall. A small ball of mass 4 kg is attached to the flagpole at \(B\). The cable holds the flagpole and ball in equilibrium, with the flagpole at 45° to the wall, as shown in Figure 3.

The tension in the cable is \(T\) newtons.

The cable is modelled as a light inextensible string and the ball is modelled as a particle.

(b) Using the model, find the value of \(T\). (8)
(c) Give a reason why the answer to part (b) is not likely to be the true value of \(T\). (1)

AS June 2019 Q4

EdexcelCurrent spec10 marksCentres of Mass

4.

Figure 2: left: triangular lamina with CE = 9a vertical, EA = 6a horizontal, right angle at E, D on CE with CD = 6a and DE = 3a, and DB = 4a parallel to EA; right: the folded lamina after folding along DB, with C now below E, and F where BC crosses EA
Figure 2

The uniform triangular lamina \(ABCDE\) is such that angle \(CEA = 90^\circ\), \(CE = 9a\) and \(EA = 6a\). The point \(D\) lies on \(CE\), with \(DE = 3a\). The point \(B\) on \(CA\) is such that \(DB\) is parallel to \(EA\) and \(DB = 4a\). The triangular lamina is folded along the line \(DB\) to form the folded lamina \(ABDECF\), as shown in Figure 2.

The distance of the centre of mass of the triangular lamina from \(DC\) is \(d_1\)

The distance of the centre of mass of the folded lamina from \(DC\) is \(d_2\)

(a) Explain why \(d_1 = d_2\) (1)

The folded lamina is freely suspended from \(B\) and hangs in equilibrium with \(BA\) inclined at an angle \(\alpha\) to the downward vertical through \(B\).

(b) Find, to the nearest degree, the size of angle \(\alpha\). (9)

A2 June 2019 Q3

EdexcelCurrent spec11 marksCentres of Mass

3. Numerical (calculator) integration is not acceptable in this question.

Figure 2: the curve y = (1/4)(x - 2)^3 + 2 through O, rising to A; the region L between the curve, the x-axis and the vertical line AB is shaded
Figure 2

The shaded region \(OAB\) in Figure 2 is bounded by the \(x\)-axis, the line with equation \(x = 4\) and the curve with equation \(y = \dfrac{1}{4}(x - 2)^3 + 2\). The point \(A\) has coordinates \((4, 4)\) and the point \(B\) has coordinates \((4, 0)\).

A uniform lamina \(L\) has the shape of \(OAB\). The unit of length on both axes is one centimetre. The centre of mass of \(L\) is at the point with coordinates \((\bar{x}, \bar{y})\).

Given that the area of \(L\) is \(8\ \text{cm}^2\),

(a) show that \(\bar{y} = \dfrac{8}{7}\) (4)

The lamina is freely suspended from \(A\) and hangs in equilibrium with \(AB\) at an angle \(\theta^\circ\) to the downward vertical.

(b) Find the value of \(\theta\). (7)

AS June 2019 Q1

EdexcelCurrent spec9 marksCentres of Mass

1.

Figure 1: rhombus framework ABCD with AB along the top and DC along the bottom, and a diagonal rod AC
Figure 1

Five identical uniform rods are joined together to form the rigid framework \(ABCD\) shown in Figure 1. Each rod has weight \(W\) and length \(4a\). The points \(A\), \(B\), \(C\) and \(D\) all lie in the same plane.

The centre of mass of the framework is at the point \(G\).

(a) Explain why \(G\) is the midpoint of \(AC\). (1)

The framework is suspended from the ceiling by two vertical light inextensible strings. One string is attached to the framework at \(A\) and the other string is attached to the framework at \(B\). The framework hangs freely in equilibrium with \(AB\) horizontal.

(b) Find
(i) the tension in the string attached at \(A\),
(ii) the tension in the string attached at \(B\).
(4)

A particle of weight \(kW\) is now attached to the framework at \(D\) and a particle of weight \(2kW\) is now attached to the framework at \(C\). The framework remains in equilibrium with \(AB\) horizontal and the strings vertical.

Either string will break if the tension in it exceeds \(6W\).

(c) Find the greatest possible value of \(k\). (4)

AS June 2018 Q3

EdexcelCurrent spec11 marksCentres of Mass

3.

Figure 2: square ABDF of side 2a with A top left, B top right, F bottom left and D bottom right; triangle BDC attached on the right with DC = a along FD extended, and triangle FDE attached below with DE = a along BD extended
Figure 2

The lamina \(L\), shown in Figure 2, consists of a uniform square lamina \(ABDF\) and two uniform triangular laminas \(BDC\) and \(FDE\). The square has sides of length \(2a\). The two triangles are identical.

The straight lines \(BDE\) and \(FDC\) are perpendicular with \(BD = DF = 2a\) and \(DC = DE = a\).
The mass per unit of area of the square is \(M\).
The mass per unit area of each triangle is \(3M\).
The centre of mass of \(L\) is at the point \(G\).

(a) Without doing any calculations, explain why \(G\) lies on \(AD\). (1)
(b) Show that the distance of \(G\) from \(D\) is \(\dfrac{\sqrt{2}}{2}a\) (7)

The lamina \(L\) is freely suspended from \(B\) and hangs in equilibrium.

(c) Find the size of the angle between \(BE\) and the downward vertical. (3)

AS June 2018 Q1

EdexcelCurrent spec7 marksCentres of Mass

1.

Figure 1: right-angled triangle ABC with AB = 12a vertical, BC = 5a horizontal and CA = 13a, the right angle at B
Figure 1

A thin uniform rod, of total length \(30a\) and mass \(M\), is bent to form a frame. The frame is in the shape of a triangle \(ABC\), where \(AB = 12a\), \(BC = 5a\) and \(CA = 13a\), as shown in Figure 1.

(a) Show that the centre of mass of the frame is \(\dfrac{3}{2}a\) from \(AB\). (4)

The frame is freely suspended from \(A\). A horizontal force of magnitude \(kMg\), where \(k\) is a constant, is applied to the frame at \(B\). The line of action of the force lies in the vertical plane containing the frame. The frame hangs in equilibrium with \(AB\) vertical.

(b) Find the value of \(k\). (3)