Change of momentum of a crate within a system

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the change of momentum of a 200 kg crate within a system, utilizing various pieces of information such as mass, distance moved, time, initial and final velocities, and acceleration. The context is rooted in concepts of momentum and impulse in physics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the calculation of initial and final momentum using the formula Momentum = Mass x Velocity. Questions arise regarding the necessity of using impulse equations versus direct momentum calculations.

Discussion Status

Participants have provided calculations for initial and final momentum, leading to a proposed change in momentum. There is a recognition that impulse relates directly to change in momentum, and some participants suggest using force and time to confirm results. Multiple interpretations of the problem are being explored.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express confusion regarding the relevance of various pieces of information provided and the equations needed for the calculations. There is also mention of an initial free body diagram, which may influence understanding of the system.

junkie_ball
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Homework Statement



Ok i am working through some course work questions and have been asked to calculate the change of momentum of the 200kg crate. I have the following information after working through the previous questions

Mass of crate = 200Kg
Distance moved (horizontally) = 20m
time = 4.07s
Initial Velocity = 0 m/s
Final velocity = 9.82 m/s
Aceleration = 2.41 m/s/s

I realize i don't need all this information but wanted to include all the information i have gained about the system. I have also attached my initial free body diagram.

Homework Equations



Impulse = ft = mΔv

The Attempt at a Solution



So this is where I'm having difficulties i think i have got confused with all the information i have already gained about the system but my attempt is as below would appreciate any pointers in the right direction.

Ft = mΔv

F = mΔv/t

F = (200Kg x 9.82m/s)/4.07s

F = 482.56N
 

Attachments

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What's the initial momentum? What's the final momentum? What's the difference (change)?
 
gneill said:
What's the initial momentum? What's the final momentum? What's the difference (change)?

Momentum = Mass x Velocity

Initial Momentum = 200 x 0 = 0
Final Momentum = 200 x 9.82 = 1964

So to summarise the initial momentum would be 0 kgm/s and the final momentum is 1964 kgm/s as such the change of moment would be 1964 kgm/s? so the change in momentum would be + 1964 kgm/s?

I thought i needed to use the impulse = force applied x time equation? is this not the change of momentum. Thanks for you help.
 
junkie_ball said:
Momentum = Mass x Velocity

Initial Momentum = 200 x 0 = 0
Final Momentum = 200 x 9.82 = 1964

So to summarise the initial momentum would be 0 kgm/s and the final momentum is 1964 kgm/s as such the change of moment would be 1964 kgm/s? so the change in momentum would be + 1964 kgm/s?

I thought i needed to use the impulse = force applied x time equation? is this not the change of momentum. Thanks for you help.

You could use the f*t version if you wanted to. You've provided the acceleration and time, and the force can be obtained from f=ma. But it amounts to the same thing, and really, by definition the impulse is the change in momentum so why not go directly there?
 
Last edited:
gneill said:
You cold use the f*t version if you wanted to. You've provided the acceleration and time, and the force can be obtained from f=ma. But it amounts to the same thing, and really, by definition the impulse is the change in momentum so why not go directly there?

Thanks for the reply. I see your point (why make life difficult! :D) i have just tried the force * time to work out the impulse and that confirms my answer for me. Thanks for the help
 

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