Calculate Change in Momentum of Mass m Launched at 45° Angle

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves an object of mass m launched at a speed v from horizontal ground at a 45-degree angle. Participants are tasked with determining the magnitude of the change in momentum as the object reaches a specified point.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster expresses uncertainty about how to begin the problem, particularly regarding the significance of the 45-degree angle in the context of momentum change.
  • One participant attempts to calculate the change in momentum using initial and final velocities, but questions arise about the direction of the final velocity and the forces involved in the momentum change.
  • Another participant questions the assumption that the final velocity is simply the initial velocity in the opposite direction, prompting further exploration of momentum as a vector quantity.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants sharing their thoughts and calculations. Some guidance has been offered regarding the vector nature of momentum and the implications of direction on the change in momentum. There is no explicit consensus on the correct approach or answer yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating assumptions about the direction of forces and the components of momentum that change during the object's trajectory. The original poster has provided multiple-choice options for the answer, which may influence the discussion.

Victorian91
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Homework Statement


An object of mass m is launched at speed v from point P on horizontal ground at an angle of elevation of 45 degrees, as shown in the picture. When the object reaches point Q the magnitude of the change in momentum of the object is ?


Homework Equations


Change in momentum of the object
mv - mu


The Attempt at a Solution


Honestly, I really don't know how to start
All i know is use the formula of the change of momentum
But then the angle 45 degrees I really don't know where to put..
Can somebody help me

Sorry for not attempting
Is because I am a bit blur..
Lastly the options for this question is

A : Zero
B : 1/2 mv
C : 2mv
D : 4mv

Thanks so much..
 

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Okay i think I might be able to solve it..
Finally I manage to attempt this question..

Initial velocity, v = ( vcos45 )^2 + ( vsin45 )^2 ( using pythagorean theorum ) ( to find the resultant velocity
Therefore initial velocity = v
Hence, initial momentum, p =mv

Final velocity, v is the same in magnitude but opposite direction,
Hence final momentum, p =-mv

Hence, change in momentum,
is -mv -mv

=-2mv

But the question just wants the magnitude,
Hence = 2mv

Can anybody tell me whether my working is correct??
Thanks
 
Victorian91 said:
Final velocity, v is the same in magnitude but opposite direction,

Really? Why do you think that?

Also, momentum is a vector:

\Delta\vec{p}=\vec{p}_f}-\vec{p}_i=m\vec{v}_f}-m\vec{v}_i

What force is causing the momentum to change? Which direction does this force act in? Hence, which component(s) of the momentum change?
 
The final velocity of the object will be pointing downwards..
Hence, the it will be the same magnitude as the initial velocity but pointing downwards..

That is what I think..

Is my answer correct?
Or are there any other answers..

Thanks
 

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