MCAT Physics Question 13: Answer and Explanation

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Question: 13

13. A rock (m = 2 kg) is shot up vertically at the same time that a ball (m = 0.5 kg) is projected horizontally. If both start from the same height:

  • A. the rock and ball will reach the ground at the same time.
  • B. the rock will reach the ground first.
  • C. the ball will reach the ground first.
  • D. the rock and ball will collide in the air before reaching the ground.

Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

We only need to analyze the motion in the vertical dimension to answer this question. If both the rock and ball began with no vertical velocity, they would reach the ground at the same time. However, because the rock begins with an upward component of velocity, it will take time to reach a maximum height before falling back toward the ground. Functionally, the rock's free fall thus starts higher and later than the ball's. The rock will necessarily hit the ground after the ball.

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