Easy problem that I'm a bit confused about.

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers on a physics problem involving momentum conservation during a catch in space. Joe throws a ball with a velocity of 7.5 m/s, and the calculations for both Joe's and John's velocities after the throw are presented. Joe's velocity after throwing the ball is calculated as -0.72329 m/s, while John's velocity after catching the ball is determined to be 0.56489 m/s. The setup of the problem is confirmed as correct by other participants in the discussion.

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Homework Statement



You have Joe and John playing catch in space. Joe throws the ball to John with a velocity of 7.5 m/s.

Given Variables
Joe's mass is 60.9 kg
John's mass is 79.8kg
Ball's mass is 6.5kg

Find:
A) Joe's velocity after he throws the ball.
B) John's velocity after he catches the ball.

Homework Equations



Sum of the external forces = 0; Psys=0

For A, I used:
(Mass of ball+ Mass of Joe) (Velocity of Joe after he throws the ball) + (Mass of ball)(Velocity of Ball) = 0

I ended up with: Velocity of Joe after he throws the ball = - [(Mass of ball)(Velocity of ball)]/(Mass of Ball + Mass of Joe9)

After substituting in the numbers, the velocity of Joe is: -.72329 m/s

For B, I used:

(Mass of Ball)(Velocity of Ball) = (Mass of John + Mass of Ball)(Velocity of John after he catches the ball)

The Velocity of John after he catches the ball is: .56489m/s


Did I set this problem up properly?
Any suggestions or clarification would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
 
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