Final Velocity Calculation for Inelastic Collision of Freight Trains

In summary, the formula for calculating final velocity is v = u + at, where v is the final velocity, u is the initial velocity, a is the acceleration, and t is the time. Final velocity refers to the speed and direction of an object at the end of its motion, while initial velocity refers to the speed and direction of an object at the beginning of its motion. Yes, final velocity can be negative if the object is moving in the opposite direction of its initial velocity. This is often denoted by a negative sign in the final velocity equation. Acceleration plays a crucial role in determining the final velocity of an object, with a higher acceleration resulting in a higher final velocity in the same amount of time compared to an object with
  • #1
rrosa522
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Homework Statement


Two freight trains have a completely inelastic collision at a track crossing. Engine 1 has a mass of 1.4x10^4 kg and is initially traveling at 45 km/h [N].
Engine 2 has a mass of 1.5x10^4 kg and is initially traveling at 53 km/h [W]. Calculate the final velocity.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


p^2=p1^2+ p2^2
=(1.4x10^4)(12.5m/s)^2+ (1.5x10^4)(14.72m/s)^2
=281740m/s

The answer in the textbook is 9.7m/s. What am I doing wrong?
 
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  • #2
I just realized my mistake, i forgot to divide it by both mass
 

Related to Final Velocity Calculation for Inelastic Collision of Freight Trains

What is the formula for calculating final velocity?

The formula for calculating final velocity is v = u + at, where v is the final velocity, u is the initial velocity, a is the acceleration, and t is the time.

What is the difference between final velocity and initial velocity?

Final velocity refers to the speed and direction of an object at the end of its motion, while initial velocity refers to the speed and direction of an object at the beginning of its motion.

Can final velocity be negative?

Yes, final velocity can be negative if the object is moving in the opposite direction of its initial velocity. This is often denoted by a negative sign in the final velocity equation.

How does acceleration affect final velocity?

Acceleration plays a crucial role in determining the final velocity of an object. An object with a higher acceleration will reach a higher final velocity in the same amount of time compared to an object with a lower acceleration.

What are the units for final velocity?

The units for final velocity depend on the units used for initial velocity, acceleration, and time. However, common units for final velocity include meters per second (m/s) and kilometers per hour (km/h).

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