Simple collision between rocks in outer space. Webassign

In summary, the problem involves two rocks colliding in outer space and a 1 kg chunk breaking off and sticking to the other rock. After the collision, the velocity of the 13 kg rock is given, and the question is to find the velocity of the other rock, which now has a mass of 8 kg. Using the law of conservation of momentum, the final velocity of the other rock is calculated to be <4906.25, -837.5, 4000> m/s. After some calculation errors, the correct answer was found.
  • #1
najatau
6
0

Homework Statement


[/B]
Two rocks collide in outer space. Before the collision, one rock had mass 14 kg and velocity ‹4450, −2950, 2250› m/s. The other rock had mass 7 kg and velocity ‹−600, 1900,3600› m/s. A 1 kg chunk of the first rock breaks off and sticks to the second rock. After the collision the 13 kg rock has velocity ‹1450, 300, 1900› m/s. After the collision, what is the velocity of the other rock, whose mass is now 8 kg?

Homework Equations


This is an introductory college level course. We were talking about the law of conservation of momentum, but I keep getting the problem wrong when I try to set the two total momentums equal to each other. I keep getting the sample Webassign problem wrong too. I've been working on this for an hour with no luck.

The Attempt at a Solution



14*<4450,-2950,2250>+7*<-600,1900,3600>=8*final velocity of other rock+13*<1450,300,1900>

<62300,-41300,31500>+<-4200,13300,25200>=8*final velocity of other rock+<18850,3900,24700>

<58100,-2800,56700>-<18850,3900,24700>=8*final velocity of other rock

<39250,-6700,32000>/8=final velocity of other rock

<4906.25,-837.5,4000> m/s =final velocity of other rock
[/B]
This isn't the correct answer. :( I tried rounding to 3 significant figures as well, and it's still not the right answer.
 
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  • #2
najatau said:
<58100,-2800,56700>-<18850,3900,24700>=8*final velocity of other rock
Check the number of zeros.
 
  • #3
Oh, thank you! *cries for joy and does a little dance* I don't know why I kept missing that! I got my problem right. It's a bigger relief to know that I actually do understand the concept. :)
 

1. What causes simple collisions between rocks in outer space?

Simple collisions between rocks in outer space are caused by the gravitational pull of larger objects, such as planets or asteroids, which can alter the trajectory of smaller objects and cause them to collide.

2. How common are simple collisions between rocks in outer space?

Simple collisions between rocks in outer space are quite common, as there are countless small objects floating through space that can potentially collide with each other.

3. Can simple collisions between rocks in outer space have a significant impact?

Yes, simple collisions between rocks in outer space can have a significant impact, especially if one of the objects involved is large or moving at a high speed. These collisions can result in the formation of new objects or the destruction of existing ones.

4. How do scientists study simple collisions between rocks in outer space?

Scientists study simple collisions between rocks in outer space through a combination of observations from telescopes and spacecraft, as well as computer simulations and laboratory experiments.

5. What are the potential implications of simple collisions between rocks in outer space?

Simple collisions between rocks in outer space can have various implications, including affecting the formation and evolution of planetary systems, potentially posing a threat to spacecraft or satellites, and providing insights into the early history of our solar system.

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