Finding Final Velocity of Cart in Grade 12 Physics Problem

In summary, two men with a combined mass of 200kg are on a cart with a mass of 300kg that can only move north and south. One man runs at a speed of 5 m/s towards the north and jumps off the cart, while the other man runs at the same speed towards the south. Using the equations of conservation of energy and momentum, the final velocity of the cart is calculated to be 0.25 m/s towards the north.
  • #1
musicfan31
6
0

Homework Statement



2 men with mass of 100kg each, are on a stationary cart with mass of 300 kg.
The cart has no friction withthe tracks. The cart can only go north and south.
1st man starts runnin at speed of 5 m/s(reletive to cart) towards north and jumps off the cart. Otherman runs with same speed (reletive to cart) towards the south after the 1st man what is the cart final velocity??


Homework Equations




use the equation of

Conservation of energy
Coservation of momentum



The Attempt at a Solution




North is positive

M1 = 100
M2 = 100
M3 = 300

MAN 1

m1v1 +m2v2 + m3v3 = m1v1' +m2v2' + m3v3'
100(5)+ 0+0 = V'(100+300)
500/400 = v'
10.25 m/s =v'​

MAN 2

m2v2 + m3v3 = m2v2' + m3v3'
100(-5) + 300(1.25) = 300v'
-500+375 = 300v'
-0.41666 m/s = v'​


NOW I need someone to proof read this and tell me wht to do next please!

Teh final asnwer is 0.25 m/s North!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
musicfan31 said:
m1v1 +m2v2 + m3v3 = m1v1' +m2v2' + m3v3'
100(5)+ 0+0 = V'(100+300)​
Sorry, this isn't right.

Things start out all at rest, with the two men both standing on the cart. So the initial momentum is zero.

Then the 1st man jumps off the cart, and is going 5 m/s relative to the cart. You need to write an expression for the total momentum an instant after the man leaves the cart, and set that equal to the initial momentum of zero.

500/400 = v'
10.25 m/s =v'​

MAN 2

m2v2 + m3v3 = m2v2' + m3v3'
100(-5) + 300(1.25) = 300v'
-500+375 = 300v'
-0.41666 m/s = v'​


NOW I need someone to proof read this and tell me wht to do next please!

Teh final asnwer is 0.25 m/s North!
 
  • #3


I would like to first point out that the initial velocities of both men should be taken into account in the conservation of momentum equation, as they are both moving relative to the cart. Additionally, the conservation of energy equation does not seem to be applicable in this scenario since there is no change in height or potential energy involved.

With that being said, the approach to solving this problem is correct in using the conservation of momentum equation. However, there are a few errors in the calculations. The initial momentum of the cart should be taken into account as well, as it is initially at rest. So the equation should be:

m1v1 + m2v2 + m3v3 = (m1 + m2 + m3)v'

Substituting the given values, we get:

100(5) + 100(-5) + 300(0) = (100+100+300)v'

500 = 500v'

v' = 1 m/s North

This means that after both men jump off the cart, the cart will have a final velocity of 1 m/s towards the North.

As a final check, we can also calculate the total momentum of the system before and after the men jump off, and we should see that they are equal. Before the men jump off, the total momentum is:

m1v1 + m2v2 + m3v3 = 100(5) + 100(-5) + 300(0) = 0 kg m/s

After the men jump off, the total momentum is:

(m1 + m2 + m3)v' = (100+100+300)(1) = 500 kg m/s

As we can see, the total momentum is conserved before and after the men jump off, which confirms our solution.

In conclusion, the final velocity of the cart will be 1 m/s towards the North. It is important to carefully consider all the given information and equations before solving a problem in physics. Good job on attempting the solution, and keep practicing and double-checking your work to improve your problem-solving skills.
 

1. What is the difference between Newton's laws and Einstein's laws?

Newton's laws of motion describe the behavior of objects in classical mechanics, while Einstein's laws of relativity describe the behavior of objects in extreme conditions such as high speeds or strong gravitational fields.

2. How can I apply the principles of physics to real-world problems?

Physics principles can be applied to real-world problems by using mathematical equations and models to analyze and understand the behavior of physical systems. This can help in making predictions and finding solutions to various problems.

3. What is the role of experimentation in physics?

Experimentation is a crucial part of physics as it allows scientists to test theories and hypotheses and gather data to support or refute them. It also helps in discovering new phenomena and advancing our understanding of the physical world.

4. How does the study of physics contribute to technological advancements?

The study of physics has led to numerous technological advancements such as electricity, nuclear power, and space travel. By understanding the fundamental laws and principles of the universe, scientists are able to create new technologies that improve our lives.

5. How can I improve my problem-solving skills in physics?

One way to improve problem-solving skills in physics is to practice solving various types of problems, using different approaches and techniques. It is also helpful to have a strong understanding of the fundamental principles and concepts in physics.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
5K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
11K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
20
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
13
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
24K
Back
Top