How Does Momentum Affect the Motion of a Boat When People Jump Onboard?

In summary: The man with a velocity of 5 m/s has a final velocity of 0 m/s after sliding on the boat floor. The man with a velocity of 8 m/s has a final velocity of 0 m/s after sliding on the boat floor. The third person, with a mass of 80 kg, starts walking towards the two jumpers at a velocity of 2 km/s relative to the ground. In summary, the speed of the boat (relative to the ground) at this time is unknown, as more information is needed to calculate it. However, friction is relevant in this situation and the final speed can be calculated using the principles of conservation of momentum.
  • #1
spooky655
1
0
A 200 kg canoe lies at rest in the water, near a dock but untethered. Any
friction between the canoe and the water is negligible. A 60 kg man runs along the
dock toward the boat and jumps in, at velocity v = 5 m/s (directed toward the long
dimension of the canoe). The coefficient of friction between his shoes and the boat
floor is µk = 0.3, µs = 0.5; he slides along the boat floor and comes to rest relative to
the boat. His 70 kg friend does the same thing, jumping with v = 8 km/s, and with
µk = 0.1, µs = 0.8 (he has different shoes). After they come to a stop in the boat, a
third person with m = 80kg, who was at the opposite end of the boat, begins to walk
toward them, at v = 2km/s relative to the ground. What is the speed of the boat
(relative to the ground) at this time, when the two jumpers are at rest relative to the
boat, and the third person has begun walking?

Is friction relevant? How do you calculate the final speed?
 
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  • #2
If this is a homework question, there's another forum for that. Anyway, you should present your own attempt at a solution.
I believe momentum will be conserved.
 

What is momentum and how does it relate to walking on a boat?

Momentum is a measure of an object's tendency to keep moving in the same direction at the same speed. It is calculated by multiplying an object's mass by its velocity. When walking on a boat, momentum is important because it determines how easily the boat will move or be affected by your movement.

How does walking on a boat affect its momentum?

When you walk on a boat, you are adding your own momentum to the boat. This can cause the boat to move in the opposite direction of your movement, or it can change the boat's direction and speed if you are walking in a different direction than the boat is moving.

What factors can affect the momentum of a boat while walking on it?

The momentum of a boat while walking on it can be affected by a few factors, including the mass and velocity of the boat, the mass and velocity of the person walking, and the surface of the boat (i.e. slippery or rough).

Why is it important to understand momentum when walking on a boat?

Understanding momentum when walking on a boat is important for safety reasons. If you are not aware of how your movements affect the boat's momentum, you may cause it to tip or move in an unexpected way, potentially causing harm to yourself or others on the boat.

How can you adjust your movements to minimize the impact on the boat's momentum?

You can adjust your movements while walking on a boat to minimize the impact on its momentum by moving slowly and deliberately, distributing your weight evenly, and keeping your center of gravity low. It is also helpful to anticipate the movement of the boat and adjust your movements accordingly.

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