Does Mass Affect Velocity in Collisions?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the effects of mass on velocity during collisions, specifically comparing the changes in velocity of a small car and a large truck in a collision scenario.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the relationship between mass and change in velocity, referencing conservation of linear momentum and questioning the validity of the original statement regarding changes in velocity for different masses.

Discussion Status

The conversation reflects a mix of agreement and questioning, with some participants affirming that the original statement is false while others clarify the implications of mass on velocity changes in collisions. There is no explicit consensus, but productive dialogue is occurring.

Contextual Notes

Participants are grappling with the definitions and implications of mass in the context of collisions, with some assumptions about the nature of velocity changes being examined.

StephenDoty
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True or False: In a collision between a small car and a large truck, the car and the truck undergo the same change in velocities.

False- mor mass more change in velocity

right??
 
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You have not explained how you got that. But do you remember conservation of linear momentum?
 
well the massive truck will have more of a change in velocity than the small car since more mass means more change in velocity.

Right?
 
StephenDoty said:
mor mass more change in velocity

erm … if a 100 ton truck at 50 mph hits a roller-skate at 0 mph, which changes speed more? :rolleyes:
 
right
so the car and truck do not change velocities at the same rate, which makes the original statement false.
 
So is it still "more mass more change in velocity"? :smile:
 
no the less massive object will have a more change of a velocity due to the more massive object. But the origonal statement is still false, right??
 
:smile: Yes! :smile:​

I'm going to bed … :zzz:
 

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