Average force in a collision problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the average force experienced by two ice skaters during a collision. A 59.8 kg skater moving at 14 m/s collides with a stationary skater of equal mass, resulting in both moving at 7 m/s post-collision. The average force that can be tolerated without injury is 4640 N, and the impact time is 0.047 seconds. The correct approach involves using the impulse-momentum theorem, where impulse equals the change in momentum, leading to the calculation of average force experienced during the collision.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the impulse-momentum theorem
  • Knowledge of basic physics concepts such as mass, velocity, and force
  • Familiarity with calculating change in momentum
  • Ability to manipulate equations involving force and time
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the impulse-momentum theorem in detail
  • Learn how to calculate change in momentum for different scenarios
  • Explore examples of collisions in physics, specifically elastic and inelastic collisions
  • Investigate the effects of varying impact times on average force calculations
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of collisions and the forces involved in such interactions.

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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