One object is at rest, and another is moving. The two collide in a one-dimension

Question

One object is at rest, and another is moving. The two collide in a one-dimensional, completely inelastic collision. In other words, they stick together after the collision and move off with a common velocity. Momentum is conserved. The speed of the object that is moving initially is 29 m/s. The masses of the two objects are 3.2 and 7.6 kg. Determine the final speed of the two-object system after the collision for the case (a) when the large-mass object is the one moving initially and the case (b) when the small-mass object is the one moving initially.

Explanation / Answer

a) when the large-mass object is the one moving initially and the case
m1 * u1 + m2*u2 = (m1+m2)*V
so, (7.3*23) + (3.2*0) = (7.3 + 3.2)*V
V = 15.99 m/s is the answer
b) when the small-mass object is the one moving initially.
m1 * u1 + m2*u2 = (m1+m2)*V
so, (7.3*0) + (3.2*23) = (7.3 + 3.2)*V
V = 7.009 m/s is the answer

Related Questions

Navigate

• Browse (All)
• Browse O
• Subjects

Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.