How Does a Spring Affect Cart Velocity After Collision?

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In a collision involving two carts, where cart 1 has a spring, the final velocity of cart 1 can be determined by considering the conservation of momentum, not kinetic energy. Initially, both carts are at rest, and when the spring on cart 1 is released, it converts stored energy into kinetic energy, propelling the carts. The key factor is that while momentum is conserved during the collision, kinetic energy is not due to the energy transformation from the spring. Understanding the role of the spring's energy is crucial for calculating the final velocities. The discussion emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between momentum and kinetic energy in such scenarios.
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If two carts collide and cart 1 has a spring on it, how can I figure out the final velocity of the first cart?
 
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What's conserved?
 
kinetic energy and momentum
 
what's throwing me off is the spring...

the carts are initially at rest together, then the spring on cart 1 is released.
 
louise82 said:
the carts are initially at rest together, then the spring on cart 1 is released.
I thought you said they collided?

louise82 said:
kinetic energy and momentum
Momentum, yes. Kinetic energy, no. (They start at rest, then begin to move.) Hint: Consider the energy stored in the compressed spring.
 
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