Average force in a collision problem

AI Thread Summary
The problem involves a collision between two ice skaters of equal mass, where one skater crashes into a stationary skater, resulting in both moving together at 7 m/s. To find the average force experienced during the collision, the impulse-momentum theorem is applied, with impulse defined as the change in momentum. The change in momentum for the moving skater is calculated, and the average force is then derived using the known impact time of 0.047 seconds. Initial calculations suggest confusion regarding the application of the average force formula. Ultimately, the correct approach involves equating the impulse to the change in momentum to solve for the average force experienced by each skater.
KatieLynn
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Homework Statement



A 59.8kg ice skater, moving at 14 m/s crashes into a stationary skater of equal mass. After the collision, the two skaters move as a unit at 7 m/s. Suppose the average force a skater can experience without breaking a bone is 4640N. If the impact time is 0.047s, what is the magnitude of the average force each skate experiences?

Homework Equations



impulse = change in momentum
change in momentum= m(Vf-Vi)
impulse=Faverage(change in time)

The Attempt at a Solution



Honestly, I'm not sure where to begin but I'll give it my best shot...

I'm going to try this

impulse = Faverage(change in time)

so impulse = 4640N (.047s) = 218.08 ...I don't think that's anywhere near what this problem is asking for though...
 
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The change in momentum of the 1st skater is known, which is equal to impulse = Fav x time. Then you can find Fav.
 

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