Moving in the horizontal plane with and without friction

Section 1: Basics of Motion in a Horizontal Plane

Understand that motion in a horizontal plane can be analysed using the principles of velocity, displacement, time, acceleration and force.
Learn that a horizontal plane is a flat, level surface aligned with the horizontal axis.
Recognise that motion along this plane can be treated as two-dimensional motion, involving both x and y coordinates.

Section 2: Force, Mass and Acceleration

Understand Newton’s Second Law (Force = mass x acceleration) and apply it to motion in a horizontal plane.
Realise that force is a vector quantity, with both magnitude and direction.
Know that if multiple forces are acting on an object, you must consider both the magnitude and direction of all the forces.

Section 3: Friction in Horizontal Motion

Learn that friction is a force that opposes motion between two surfaces in contact.
Understand that friction can be divided into static and kinetic friction.
Remember that the kinetic friction force is usually less than the maximum static friction force.
Apply the concept of frictional force (which is proportional to the normal force) to horizontal motion scenarios.

Section 4: Motion without Friction

Understand that when no friction is present, an object in motion on a horizontal plane will continue moving at a constant speed and in a straight line.
Recognise that this is an application of Newton’s First Law of Motion, also known as the Law of Inertia.
Know how to calculate displacement, velocity and acceleration when no friction is acting.

Section 5: Problem-Solving in Horizontal Motion

Apply the principles of force, mass and acceleration to solve problems related to motion in a horizontal plane with and without friction.
Learn to draw free-body diagrams to help visualise and solve problems.
Practice applying the principles of friction to calculate and compare static and kinetic friction.
Engage with past paper questions to become familiar with typical problem scenarios and solutions.
Use diagrams and sketches where possible to aid understanding and problem-solving.