Questions on Forces

Q4.

(a) A railway engine is being used to try to pull a wagon along a level track. The wagon's brakes are on, and the wagon does not move.

(i) Draw one arrow on the diagram to show the direction of the force which prevents the wagon from moving.

1 mark

(ii) Is the force which prevents the wagon from moving greater than, equal to or less than the pull of the engine?

1 mark

(b)

(i) When the wagon's brakes are off, the engine pulls the wagon forwards. A frictional force also acts on the wagon. In what direction does the frictional force act?

1 mark

(ii) The pull of the engine is 5000 N. When the wagon's speed is increasing, how large is the frictional force?

A
zero
B
between 0 and 5000 N
C
5000 N
D
more than 5000 N

1 mark

(c) After a while, the wagon travels at a steady speed. The engine is still pulling with a force of 5000 N. How large is the frictional force now?

A
zero
B
between 0 and 5000 N
C
5000 N
D
more than 5000 N

1 mark

Maximum 5 marks