Question

A small block of mass m is lying at rest at point P of a wedge having a smooth semi circular track of radius R. The minimum value of horizontal acceleration $a_o$ of wedge so that mass can just reach the point Q?

• A.
• B.
  
• C. g
• D. not possible

Answer 1

The correct option is C

g

Using work energy theorem is wedge's frame

Force acting on block

(1) Normal

(2) Gravity

(3) pseudo force (Since we are in non - initial frame)

Normal is always perpendicular to displacement

$\Rightarrow$ $W_n$ = 0

$W_g$ + $W_{spesudo}$ = $\Delta$ K.E

Blocks starts from rest and comes also to rest with respect to you innon inertial frame.

$\Rightarrow$ $\Delta$ K.E = 0

$W_g$ = $\Delta$$U_g$

Taking P as reference

$W_g$ = - mgR
-mgR+$m{a}_{0}R$ = 0
$\Rightarrow a_0=g$