Momentum, conservation of linear momentum problem

In summary, momentum is a physical quantity that describes the motion of an object and is calculated by multiplying an object's mass by its velocity. The principle of conservation of linear momentum states that the total momentum of a system remains constant unless acted upon by an external force. This principle is often used to solve problems involving the transfer of momentum between objects in collisions or explosions. By applying the law of conservation of linear momentum, we can determine the final velocities of objects involved in a collision or explosion. This concept is crucial in understanding the behavior of objects in motion and is widely used in various fields such as physics, engineering, and astronomy.
  • #1
jehan4141
91
0
A 2.1-kg cart is rolling along a frictionless, horizontal track towards a 1.4-kg cart that is held initially at rest. The carts are loaded with strong magnets that cause them to attract one another. Thus, the speed of each cart increases. At a certain instant before the carts collide, the first cart's velocity is +5.9 m/s, and the second cart's velocity is -2.0 m/s. (a) What is the total momentum of the system of the two carts at this instant? (b) What was the velocity of the first cart when the second cart was still at rest?

P = (m1)(V1) + (m2)(V2) = (2.1)(5.9) + (1.4)(-2)
P = 9.59 ??

P = (m1)(V1)
V1 = P / m1
V1 = 9.59 / 2.1
V1 = 4.57 ??
 
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  • #2
Other than the units, looks good to me.
 

1. What is momentum?

Momentum is a property of an object that describes its motion. It is calculated by multiplying the mass of an object by its velocity.

2. What is the law of conservation of linear momentum?

The law of conservation of linear momentum states that the total momentum of a closed system remains constant, as long as no external forces act upon the system.

3. How is momentum conserved in a collision?

In a collision, the total momentum of the objects involved remains constant. This means that the sum of the initial momentums of the objects is equal to the sum of the final momentums after the collision.

4. What factors affect the momentum of an object?

The momentum of an object is affected by its mass and velocity. The greater the mass and velocity of an object, the greater its momentum will be.

5. Can momentum be negative?

Yes, momentum can be negative. This simply indicates the direction of the object's motion, with negative momentum indicating motion in the opposite direction of the chosen reference point.

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