How Can You Simplify This Math Homework Equation?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around simplifying the equation (mBvB2 - mBvC2 - mCvC2)/(mBvB2) to mC/(mC + mB). The context involves variables related to the motion of a bullet and a clay block, with specific references to their masses and speeds.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants express difficulty in simplifying the equation and question the relationships between the variables involved. There are suggestions to consider additional equations or relationships to clarify the variables' meanings.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on the need for more information regarding the variables, while others have suggested the possibility of canceling certain variables. The discussion is ongoing, with various interpretations being explored.

Contextual Notes

There are unknown values for the masses and speeds involved, and the participants are working under the constraints of the given homework problem. The original poster has attempted to provide additional information but the clarity of the relationships between the variables remains in question.

gold123456th
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Homework Statement


Show how to simplify (mBvB2 - mBvC2 - mCvC2)/(mBvB2) to mC/(mC + mB)


Homework Equations


vB is not equal to vC.
vB = muzzle speed of a bullet = unknown value
vC = speed of the clay block after it is hit by the bullet = unknown value
vB = ((2gh)0.5(mB + mC))/mB
vC = (2gh)0.5
g = gravitational acceleration
h = unkown height
mB is not equal to mC
mB is the mass of a bullet. mB is unkown though
mC is the mass of a clay block. mC is also unkown

The Attempt at a Solution


I have tried many different methods, but I still cannot show how to simplify the above equation
Please Help!
 
Last edited:
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gold123456th said:

Homework Statement


Show how to simplify (mBvB2 - mBvC2 - mCvC2)/(mBvB2) to mC/(mC + mB)

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


I have tried many different methods, but I still cannot show how to simplify the above equation
Please Help!

You need more equations showing some relationships between your variables. If the variables are uninterpreted, the equation doesn't hold. For example, suppose vB = vC. In this case the equation on the left reduces to -mC/mB, which is only matches the right hand side when mC = 0 or mC = -2mB.

So you need more information.

Cheers -- sylas
 


I just edited the thread. Hope all the info are there
 


gold123456th said:
I just edited the thread. Hope all the info are there

Yes. Can you cancel out the variables you don't need? That is, g and h?
 


Yeah of course
 

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