How Do Mass and Speed Affect Kinetic Energy in Cars?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relationship between mass, speed, and kinetic energy in cars. It establishes that one car has twice the mass of another but only half the kinetic energy. When both cars increase their speed by 6.0 m/s, they achieve equal kinetic energy. The relevant equation for kinetic energy is KE = 0.5 * m * v^2, which participants suggest manipulating to find the original speeds of the cars.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of kinetic energy formula (KE = 0.5 * m * v^2)
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations
  • Concept of mass and speed in physics
  • Knowledge of initial and final conditions in physics problems
NEXT STEPS
  • Practice solving problems involving kinetic energy and mass variations
  • Learn how to derive equations from physical principles
  • Explore the implications of speed changes on kinetic energy
  • Study real-world applications of kinetic energy in automotive engineering
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in the principles of energy in automotive contexts.

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Kinetic Energy and cars... Please help

Homework Statement


One car has twice the mass of a second car, but only half as much kinetic Energy. When both cars increase their speed by 6.0 m/s, they then ave the same kinetic energy. What were the original speeds of the two cars.


Homework Equations


Im not sure but i think its:

KE=.5mvf2-.5mvi2


The Attempt at a Solution



I manipulated the above equation by making KE multiplied by .5 and then removing the .5 from both masses.This however got me no where so could someone please help?
 
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Try writing out the intial and final kinetic energy of each car and then go from there.
 

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