2019 #2 Free Response Question - AP Physics 1 - Exam Solution

The video tutorial covers a physics problem from the 2019 AP Physics One exam, focusing on how the relative masses of two blocks affect their acceleration. The problem involves a block on a table connected to a hanging block via a pulley. The tutorial explores different scenarios based on the mass of the blocks, provides instructions for drawing force diagrams, derives an equation for acceleration, and compares tension in the string with different pulley masses. The tutorial emphasizes qualitative reasoning and the importance of understanding force interactions.

In the scenario where Block A is much heavier than Block B, what is the expected acceleration of Block A after release?

• Nearly zero

• Equal to gravity

• Negative

• Greater than gravity

When Block A is much lighter than Block B, what is the approximate acceleration of Block A after release?

• 9.81 m/s²

• Zero

• Double gravity

• Half of gravity

What force acts on Block A in the horizontal direction according to the free body diagram?

• Friction

• Tension

• Normal force

• Gravity

In the free body diagram, which force acts vertically on Block B?

• Air resistance

• Tension

• Friction

• Normal force

What is the derived equation for the acceleration of the blocks in terms of their masses and gravity?

• a = (mB / (mA + mB)) * g

• a = (mA / (mA + mB)) * g

• a = (mA + mB) / g

• a = g / (mA + mB)

How does the derived equation for acceleration validate the scenario where Block A is much lighter than Block B?

• Acceleration approaches zero

• Acceleration approaches gravity

• Acceleration becomes negative

• Acceleration doubles

What happens to the tension in the string when a pulley with non-negligible mass is used?

• Tension remains the same

• Tension decreases

• Tension increases

• Tension becomes zero

Why does the tension increase when a pulley with mass is introduced?

• Because the system's resistance to change in velocity increases

• Because the mass of Block A increases

• Because the mass of Block B decreases

• Because the string becomes heavier

What is the effect on acceleration when a pulley with non-negligible mass is used?

• Acceleration increases

• Acceleration decreases

• Acceleration remains the same

• Acceleration becomes zero

What is the importance of answering every part of a question in the exam?

• To ensure full marks

• To avoid zero points

• To make the exam longer

• To impress the examiner