- #1
adz7861
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- Homework Statement
- Expression for the total loss of energy after the collision
- Relevant Equations
- p=mv
KE=1/2mv^2
Last edited:
EENGA 2019 Momentum question -- collision of two masses
- Thread starter adz7861
- Start date
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- Tags
- Collision Momentum Two masses
Click For Summary
Homework Help Overview
The discussion revolves around a momentum problem involving a collision between two masses, focusing on the total loss of energy after the collision. Participants are analyzing the relationship between kinetic energy before and after the collision, as well as the correct expression for energy loss.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation
Approaches and Questions Raised
- Participants are attempting to identify the correct option for the total energy loss expression, comparing their calculations to provided choices. There is a focus on the differences in mass terms used in the expressions for options B and C.
Discussion Status
Some participants have provided guidance on how to express their answers in a form that matches the provided options. There is an ongoing exploration of the calculations and assumptions regarding the masses involved in the problem.
Contextual Notes
Participants are working under the constraints of homework rules, which may limit the information they can share. There is a noted confusion regarding the correct mass to use in their calculations, indicating potential gaps in understanding the problem setup.
- #2
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Ok, but which option does that match?adz7861 said:
- #3
adz7861
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haruspex said:
I keep getting my answer to be C, when the real answer is B
- #4
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Then you are making a mistake beyond the working you posted. What you posted matches B.adz7861 said:
- #5
adz7861
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The only difference in B & C are the different masses on the nominator. What I've got is the mass of the moving particle (mE) as the nominator. The answer states that it should be ME which is the mass of the stationary particle.haruspex said:
So my working out must be incorrect, unless I'm missing a further step.
I've basically done the KE after the collision - KE before collision to give me a value for the energy loss. I am confused on what to do further after my last equation.
- #6
ehild
Science Advisor
Homework Helper
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Can you subtract fractions?adz7861 said:
Write the second term as a fraction with denominato m+M. Show your working.
- #7
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Exactly. Get your answer into the form of the choices, a single fraction.adz7861 said: