Collision between Oldsmobile and Truck: Velocity and Heading Calculation

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The discussion centers on calculating the velocity and heading of two vehicles after a collision, specifically an Oldsmobile and a truck. The Oldsmobile, weighing 2082 kg and traveling east at 14.3 m/s, collides with a 4070 kg truck moving north at 10.8 m/s. Participants emphasize the importance of applying the conservation of momentum in both the x and y directions to find the wreckage's velocity post-impact. There is clarification on the angles involved, with the correct angles being 0 degrees for the eastward motion and 90 degrees for the northward motion. The conversation highlights the need for precise calculations to resolve the momentum equations accurately.
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Homework due tomorrow!

A 2082 kg Oldsmobile traveling east on Saginaw Street at 14.3 m/s is unable to stop on the ice covered intersection for a red light at Abbott Road. The car collides with a 4070 kg truck hauling animal feed north on Abbott at 10.8 m/s. The two vehicles remain locked together after the impact. Calculate the velocity of the wreckage immediately after the impact. Give the speed for your first answer and the compass heading for your second answer. (remember, the CAPA abbreviation for degrees is deg)

I know I've already posted and I'm sorry, but I need someone to help me not so vaguely. I know about the conservation of momentum! Something just isn't adding up.

(2082*14.3)^2 + (4070*10.8)^ = 8.63

angle = 55.9

HELP ME
 
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Apply the principle of conservation of momentum twice, once on the x-resolute and once on the y-resolute.

m_1v_1\cos\theta+m_2v_2\cos\dot{\theta}=(m_1+m_2)v\cos\ddot{\theta}

m_1v_1\sin\theta+m_2v_2\sin\dot{\theta}=(m_1+m_2)v\sin\ddot{\theta}

Where \theta=45 and \dot{\theta}=0.
 
daster said:
Apply the principle of conservation of momentum twice, once on the x-resolute and once on the y-resolute.

m_1v_1\cos\theta+m_2v_2\cos\dot{\theta}=(m_1+m_2)v\cos\ddot{\theta}

m_1v_1\sin\theta+m_2v_2\sin\dot{\theta}=(m_1+m_2)v\sin\ddot{\theta}

Where \theta=45 and \dot{\theta}=0.

Shouldn't the angles be 0 and 90 before collision?
 
Yes, sorry. 0 and 90, not 45. :smile:
 
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