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Physics GK · Q37

Law of Motion

Competitive Exams · Physics GK · question 37

Q37

An iron sphere of mass 30 kg has the same diameter as an aluminium sphere of mass is 10.5 kg. Both spheres are dropped simultaneously from a tower. When they are 10m above from the ground, they have the same-

A.
momentum
B.
acceleration
Answer
C.
kinetic energy
D.
potential energy

Answer: Option B

Solution

Answer: Option B
Solution:
* Option A: Momentum - Momentum depends on both mass and velocity.
Even though the spheres fall at the same rate, the iron sphere has a greater mass, so its momentum will be higher.
* Option B: Acceleration - Acceleration due to gravity (g) is constant for all objects near the Earth's surface, regardless of their mass (assuming air resistance is negligible).
Both spheres are acted upon by the same gravitational force per unit mass, meaning they will accelerate downwards at the same rate (approximately 9.8 m/s²).
* Option C: Kinetic Energy - Kinetic energy depends on both mass and velocity squared (KE = 1/2 * m * v²).
Since the iron sphere has a greater mass, it will have a greater kinetic energy even if they have the same velocity.
* Option D: Potential Energy - Potential energy depends on mass, gravity, and height (PE = m * g * h).
At the same height, the iron sphere has a greater mass, so it will have more potential energy.
Therefore, the correct answer is B: acceleration.
Because both spheres are falling under the influence of gravity alone (ignoring air resistance), they experience the same acceleration.