Calculating Combined Mass Motion of Two Cars

In summary, using the formula for the center of mass, Xcm=(M1X1+...+MnXn)/ (M1+...+Mn), the center of mass of Car A and Car B is moving at a speed of 51.3 miles per hour. This method may seem easy, but it is a reliable way to calculate the center of mass.
  • #1
linnus
23
0

Homework Statement


Car A with mass 2400 kg is moving along a straight stretch of road at 45 miles per hour. Car B with mass 1100kg follows with speed 65 miles per hour. How fast is the center of mass of the 2 cars moving?

Homework Equations


Xcm=(M1X1+...+MnXn)/ (M1+...+Mn)


The Attempt at a Solution


hmm i did

(2400kg x 45mph +1100kg x 65 mph)/ (1100kg+2400kg)= 51.3 mph
But that seems a bit too easy..
 
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  • #2
May seem too easy, but that's no reason to mistrust it.
 
  • #3
hmm so was my method right?
 
  • #4
linnus said:
But that seems a bit too easy..
Homework questions aren't meant to be a trick! If you've studied, and understand the material, then often you will find the problems quite straightforward.
 

Related to Calculating Combined Mass Motion of Two Cars

1. How do you calculate the combined mass motion of two cars?

To calculate the combined mass motion of two cars, you will need to add the individual masses of both cars together. This will give you the total mass of the two cars combined.

2. What is the equation for calculating combined mass motion?

The equation for calculating combined mass motion is: M = m1 + m2, where M is the total mass and m1 and m2 are the individual masses of the two cars.

3. How does the speed of each car affect the combined mass motion?

The speed of each car does not directly affect the combined mass motion. However, the speed of each car can affect the overall motion of the two cars, such as the velocity and acceleration.

4. Do the direction of the cars matter in calculating combined mass motion?

Yes, the direction of the cars does matter in calculating combined mass motion. If the two cars are moving in opposite directions, the combined mass motion will be different compared to if they are moving in the same direction.

5. Can you use combined mass motion to predict collisions between two cars?

Yes, combined mass motion can be used to predict collisions between two cars. By calculating the combined mass motion, you can determine the total momentum of the two cars and predict if they will collide based on their velocities and directions.

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