Collision Problem: Find Mass of Second Box

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The discussion focuses on solving a collision problem involving two boxes, where a 5 kg box collides with a stationary box and they stick together, resulting in a final velocity of 0.5 m/s. Participants are attempting to apply the conservation of momentum principle to find the mass of the second box but are encountering difficulties. The initial momentum of the system is calculated, but the results do not align with expectations, leading to confusion about the correct application of the momentum equations. Additionally, there is a follow-up question regarding the velocity of the second box if the first box bounces back at 2 m/s, which remains unresolved due to the lack of the second box's mass. The conversation emphasizes the importance of correctly applying conservation of momentum to solve collision problems.
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A 5 kg box with initial velocity of 2 m/s collides with another box at rest. They stick together after the collision with a final velocity of .5 m/s.

A. Find the mass of the second box.
Here is tried using the conservation of momentum by setting the initial to the final but it isn't seeming to work.

B. If the 5 kg box bounced back with a velocity of 2 m/s what will be the velocity of the second box.
Can't do this because I am unable to find the mass of the second box from problem A.
 
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cjmagic said:
A. Find the mass of the second box.
Here is tried using the conservation of momentum by setting the initial to the final but it isn't seeming to work.
Show what you did. What equation did you use for conservation of momentum?
 

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