JAMB Physics 1997 Question 3

Question 3

Motion

A 5 kg block is released from rest on a smooth plane inclined at an angle of 30° to the horizontal. What is the acceleration down the plane? [g = 10 m s−2]

  1. A.5.0 m s−2
  2. B.5.8 m s−2
  3. C.8.7 m s−2
  4. D.25.0 m s−2
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A (5.0 m s−2)

Explanation

On a smooth slope only the component of weight along the slope acts, so a = g sin 30° = 10 × 0.5 = 5.0 m s−2.