Final Velocity Calculation for Inelastic Collision of Freight Trains

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In a completely inelastic collision between two freight trains, the final velocity must be calculated using the conservation of momentum. The masses of Engine 1 and Engine 2 are 1.4x10^4 kg and 1.5x10^4 kg, respectively, with initial velocities of 45 km/h [N] and 53 km/h [W]. The user initially miscalculated the momentum by not dividing by the total mass after summing the momentum contributions. The correct final velocity, as per the textbook, is 9.7 m/s. Acknowledging the mistake in the calculation process is crucial for arriving at the correct answer.
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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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I just realized my mistake, i forgot to divide it by both mass
 
The book claims the answer is that all the magnitudes are the same because "the gravitational force on the penguin is the same". I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought the buoyant force was equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. Weight depends on mass which depends on density. Therefore, due to the differing densities the buoyant force will be different in each case? Is this incorrect?

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