How Do You Calculate Momentum and Kinetic Energy of a Moving Truck?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the momentum and kinetic energy of a moving truck, specifically a 2000 kg truck traveling at 30 m/s that comes to a stop after hitting a haystack. Participants are addressing the initial and final momentum and kinetic energy of the truck.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants have attempted to calculate the initial and final momentum using the formula P=mv, with some expressing uncertainty about the kinetic energy calculations. Questions about the assumption of final velocity being 0 m/s have also been raised.

Discussion Status

Some participants have confirmed the calculations for momentum, while others are questioning the calculation of kinetic energy, particularly regarding the units used. There is a mix of correct attempts and confusion about the energy calculations.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted concern about the units for kinetic energy, with participants discussing the appropriateness of using kg x m/s versus kg m²/s² (Joules). The original poster is also unsure about their assumptions regarding the final velocity.

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Homework Statement


A 2000 kg truck is moving at a speed of 30 m/s. It hits a haystack and stops in 80m.
1a. What is the original momentum of the truck?
1b. What is the final momentum of the truck?
2a. What is the original kinetic energy of the truck?
2b. What is the final kinetic energy of the truck?

I'm not sure how to do these, and I've started some, but stuck on the last two. Also, am I correct in assuming final velocity to be 0 m/s?

Homework Equations


m1v1i + m2v2i = m1v1f + m2v2f
(1/2)m1v1i2 + (1/2)m2v2i2 = (1/2)m1v1f2 + (1/2)m2v2f2
P=mv

The Attempt at a Solution


1a. P=mv
P=(2000 kg)(30m/s)= 60,000 kg x m/s

1b. P=mv
P=(2000kg)(0 m/s) = 0 kg x m/s
 
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ChessFanatic said:

Homework Statement


A 2000 kg truck is moving at a speed of 30 m/s. It hits a haystack and stops in 80m.
1a. What is the original momentum of the truck?
1b. What is the final momentum of the truck?
2a. What is the original kinetic energy of the truck?
2b. What is the final kinetic energy of the truck?

I'm not sure how to do these, and I've started some, but stuck on the last two. Also, am I correct in assuming final velocity to be 0 m/s?

Homework Equations


m1v1i + m2v2i = m1v1f + m2v2f
(1/2)m1v1i2 + (1/2)m2v2i2 = (1/2)m1v1f2 + (1/2)m2v2f2
P=mv

The Attempt at a Solution


1a. P=mv
P=(2000 kg)(30m/s)= 60,000 kg x m/s

1b. P=mv
P=(2000kg)(0 m/s) = 0 kg x m/s
You have done 1a & 1b correctly.

Do you know how to calculate kinetic energy?
 
The initial kinetic energy of the truck is 900,000 kg x m/s? that seems wrong.. but the final should be 0, since final velocity would be 0 m/s.
 
ChessFanatic said:
The initial kinetic energy of the truck is 900,000 kg x m/s? that seems wrong.. but the final should be 0, since final velocity would be 0 m/s.
kg x m/s is wrong certainly. The number is right if you meant kg m2/s2 (better known as Joules). Why did it seem wrong?
 

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