- #1
zell_D
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Homework Statement
a moving train collides with a train that is not moving, and the trains use their springy bumpers to bounce off of each other without damage. Assume diff masses for train A and B. Identify your isolated system, solve for the final velocity of EACH train in terms of INITIAL VELOCITY of the initially moving train and the 2 masses
Homework Equations
P=mv
Conservation of momentum: Pfinal=Pinitial
Assumption of no external forces, spring as part of the system. k not addressed
The Attempt at a Solution
pi=[mA](viA) (since B is at rest)
pf=[mA](vfA)+[mB](vfB)
pi=pf
[mA](viA)=[mA](vfA)+[mB](vfB)
since A's final velocity defined as in the negative direction in my system
[mA](viA)=-[mA](vfA)+[mB]()
vfA = [[mB]vfB-[mA](viA)]/mA
vfB = [[mA]vfA+[mA](viA)]/mB
my question this is the furthest i got to. I do not know if i am right or wrong. But it seems like that's not the furtherst i can solve this problem. since the final velocity variable still are present in both