How do you find the initial speed?

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a collision between a van and a compact car, focusing on finding the initial speed of the van using principles of momentum conservation. The context is within the subject area of mechanics, specifically dealing with collisions and momentum.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the conservation of momentum in collisions and explore the relationship between mass and velocity. Questions about foundational concepts are raised, particularly regarding what is conserved during a collision.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants attempting to clarify their understanding of momentum conservation. Some guidance has been offered regarding the conservation principle, but there is no explicit consensus on the initial steps to solve the problem.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about the initial conditions and the application of momentum in this specific scenario, indicating a need for further exploration of the concepts involved.

Hannah :)
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2586 kg van runs into the back of a 824 kg compact car at rest. They move off together at 8.5 m/s. Assuming the friction with the road can be negligible, find the initial speed of the van.

i don't even know where to start :/
 
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Since they are colliding, what quantity do you know is conserved in collisions?
 
umm i don't know?
 
Hannah :) said:
umm i don't know?

Do you know anything about what mass*velocity gives?
 
yea it gives momentum
 
Hannah :) said:
yea it gives momentum

So in a collision, is momentum conserved or not?
 

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