Collision of Two Trucks: Calculate Combined Velocity After Inelastic Collision

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Two trucks with equal masses are moving towards each other at speeds of 50 mi/h and 60 mi/h, and the problem involves calculating their combined velocity after a completely inelastic collision. The initial momentum calculations presented show confusion regarding the inclusion of mass in the equations. One participant incorrectly assumed the mass was accounted for, while another pointed out the need to include the total mass on the right-hand side of the momentum equation. The final combined velocity was miscalculated as 10 mi/h, indicating a misunderstanding of the momentum conservation principle. Clarification on the correct application of momentum equations is necessary for accurate results.
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Homework Statement



Two trucks with the same masses are moving toward each other along a straight line with speeds of 50 mi/h and 60 mi/h. What is the speed of combined trucks after completely inelastic collision?
i assume the 50m/s is moving east, while 60m/s mass is moving west. That would make their final combined velocity

pi=1*50
p2= 1*(-60)
50+(-60)= -1 <--i put this negative one here, cause that's what you did.
10mi/h


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


pi=1*50
p2= 1*(-60)
50+(-60)= -1 <--i put this negative one here, i think that's right
10mi/h
which is actually wrong..
 
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hi teggenspiller! :smile:

you didn't put any mass on the RHS of your equation :redface:
 
tiny-tim!
-I Did! that's what the 1 is for in 1*50..
is that wrong?
 
hi teggenspiller! :smile:

(just got up :zzz: …)

isn't that a part of the LHS? :confused:

on the RHS you should have the mass of two trucks :wink:
 

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