Motion: WAEC Physics Past Questions and Answers

What the WAEC syllabus covers in Motion

Our summary: The different kinds of motion, the forces behind them, friction, viscosity and motion in a circle.

• Types of motion: random, rectilinear, translational, rotational, circular, orbital, spin, oscillatory (Only qualitative treatment is required. Illustration should be given for the various types of motion.)
• Relative motion (Numerical problems on co-linear motion may be set.)
• Cause of motion (Force as cause of motion.)
• Types of force: contact force (Push and pull.)
• Types of force: non-contact force (field force) (These are field forces namely: electric and magnetic attractions and repulsions; gravitational pull.)
• Solid friction (Frictional force between two stationary bodies (static) and between two bodies in relative motion (dynamic). Coefficients of limiting friction and their determinations. Advantages of friction e.g. in locomotion, friction belt, grindstone. Disadvantages of friction e.g. reduction of efficiency, wear and tear of machines. Methods of reducing friction e.g. use of ball bearings, rollers, streamlining and lubrication.)
• Viscosity (friction in fluids) (Definition and effects. Simple explanation as extension of friction in fluids. Fluid friction and its application in lubrication should be treated qualitatively. Terminal velocity and its determination.)
• Simple ideas of circular motion (Experiments with a string tied to a stone at one end and whirled around should be carried out to (i) demonstrate motion in a vertical/horizontal circle, (ii) show the difference between angular speed and velocity, (iii) draw a diagram to illustrate centripetal force. Banking of roads in reducing sideways friction should be qualitatively discussed.)

Syllabus content © The West African Examinations Council (WASSCE (harmonised West African syllabus)).