Hockey Stick Momentum problem

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In summary, two hockey players with a combined mass of 72.0 kg and initial speeds of 5.45 m/s collided and stuck together at an angle of 115 degrees. Using the equations for momentum, it was determined that their final speed after the collision was 2.93 m/s.
  • #1
Precursor
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Homework Statement


Two 72.0 kg hockey players skating at 5.45 m/s collide and stick together. If the angle between their initial directions was 115[tex]^{o}[/tex], what is their speed after the collision?


Homework Equations


p = mv

[tex]p_{i} = p_{f}[/tex]


The Attempt at a Solution



Here's my interpretation of the image;

http://img696.imageshack.us/img696/1493/momentum.png

[tex]p_{ix} = p_{fx} = 0[/tex]

[tex]p_{iy} = p_{fy}[/tex]

[tex]m_{A}v_{A} + m_{B}v_{B} = (m_{AB})(v_{AB})[/tex]

[tex](72)(5.45cos(32.5)) + (72)(5.45cos(32.5)) = 144v_{AB}[/tex]

[tex]v_{AB} = 4.60 m/s[/tex]

Am I correct?
 
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  • #2
P*cosθ components of the two players get canceled according to the diagram given by you . Check the other components. Your calculation will be correct if you use θ = 57.5 degrees.
 
  • #3
rl.bhat said:
P*cosθ components of the two players get canceled according to the diagram given by you . Check the other components. Your calculation will be correct if you use θ = 57.5 degrees.

Oh, so I need to use sin instead?
 
  • #4
Precursor said:
Oh, so I need to use sin instead?
For your mentioned angle, yes.
 
  • #5
Ok, so the new answer is 2.93 m/s.

Thanks for the help
 

1. What is the "Hockey Stick Momentum problem" in physics?

The "Hockey Stick Momentum problem" in physics refers to a common introductory physics problem that involves calculating the momentum of a hockey stick when it hits a stationary puck. It is used to illustrate the principle of conservation of momentum and is often used in the study of collisions.

2. How do you approach solving the "Hockey Stick Momentum problem"?

To solve the "Hockey Stick Momentum problem", you first need to identify and list all the relevant variables involved, such as the mass of the hockey stick and the puck, their initial velocities, and the final velocity of the puck after the collision. Then, you can use the conservation of momentum equation, p=m×v, to solve for the final velocity of the puck.

3. What assumptions are typically made when solving the "Hockey Stick Momentum problem"?

When solving the "Hockey Stick Momentum problem", it is usually assumed that the collision between the hockey stick and the puck is perfectly elastic, meaning that no energy is lost during the collision. It is also assumed that the hockey stick is much more massive than the puck, so its final velocity is negligible compared to the final velocity of the puck.

4. Can the "Hockey Stick Momentum problem" be applied to real-life situations?

Yes, the "Hockey Stick Momentum problem" can be applied to real-life situations, such as in ice hockey games. However, in reality, there are other factors that can affect the final outcome of the collision, such as friction and air resistance. These factors may cause the collision to be less than perfectly elastic, resulting in some energy being lost.

5. How does solving the "Hockey Stick Momentum problem" relate to the principles of physics?

Solving the "Hockey Stick Momentum problem" relates to the principles of physics, specifically the principle of conservation of momentum. This principle states that in a closed system, the total momentum before a collision is equal to the total momentum after the collision. By solving this problem, you are applying this principle to calculate the final velocity of the puck after the collision.

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