Module 2:

Section 3.2.1 - Mechanics

Scalars and vectors

The addition of vectors by calculation or scale drawing. Calculations will be limited
to two perpendicular vectors.
Don't forget to use the interactive XL spreadsheet on vectors and projectiles

 

The resolution of vectors into two components at right angles to each other; Examples should include the components of forces along and perpendicular to an inclined plane.

Note that the data sheet does NOT give you the basic trig info. You need to KNOW that!

Also you need to know Pythagoras' Theorem

 

Conditions for equilibrium for two or three coplanar forces acting at a point;

Problems may be solved either by using resolved forces or by using a closed
triangle.
 

Moments

Moment of a force about a point defined as force × perpendicular distance from the point to the line of action of the force; torque.  

moment = Fd

Don't forget the interactive XL spreadsheet on moments

 

Couple of a pair of equal and opposite forces defined as force × perpendicular
distance between the lines of action of the forces.

   

 

The principle of moments and its applications in simple balanced situations.  

For equilibrium:

Σ clockwise moments = Σ anticlockwise moments

 

Centre of mass Calculations of the position of the centre of mass of a regular lamina are not expected.  

Motion along a straight line

Displacement, speed,

 

 

You met speed at KS3

 

velocity  

 

and acceleration.  

 

Representation by graphical methods of uniform and non-uniform acceleration;
 

You need to know the dynamics graphs that you met at GCSE

You have to know how to draw graphs to a high standard  - and how to find gradients and areas under graphs (differentiation and integration will not be called for)

 

Interpretation of velocity-time and displacement-time graphs for uniform and non-uniform acceleration; Need to understand the physical significance of areas under graph lines and gradients.

Area under a v/t graph between two times is the distance travelled in that time interval

Gradient of s/t graph is velocity and gradient of a/t graph is acceleration

Equations for uniform acceleration

   

Don't forget the interactive XL Spreadsheets

 

Acceleration due to gravity, g;
Detailed experimental methods of measuring 'g' are not required.  

 

Terminal speed   You did this at GCSE...

Projectile motion

Independence of vertical and horizontal motion; Problems will be soluble from first
principles. The memorising of projectile equations is not required.
Don't forget the interactive XL Spreadsheets

Newton’s laws of motion

Knowledge and application of the three laws of motion in appropriate situations.
 

You met these at GCSE

Make sure you can quote them!

But note that Ft = Δmv is on the A2 syllabus not the AS one!

as is conservation of momentum - so don't worry about it at AS!

 

For constant mass,  

F = ma

Interactive XL Spreadsheet

Work, energy and power

   

Conservation of energy

Principle of conservation of energy, Applied to examples involving gravitational
potential energy
, kinetic energy and work done against resistive forces - such as friction and air resistance.