How Far Does a Stationary Object Move When Struck by a Moving Object?

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  • Thread starter Thread starter CrazyNeutrino
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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the distance a stationary object moves when struck by a moving object, utilizing the principles of conservation of momentum. The participants emphasize the importance of understanding the mass of both objects involved, denoted as m for the moving object and M for the stationary object. Key factors include the absence of friction and the coefficient of restitution, which are crucial for accurately determining the distance traveled post-collision. The conversation highlights the necessity of these concepts for a complete solution.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of conservation of momentum
  • Knowledge of mass and velocity in physics
  • Familiarity with the coefficient of restitution
  • Basic algebra for deriving equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of conservation of momentum in elastic and inelastic collisions
  • Learn how to calculate the coefficient of restitution and its impact on collisions
  • Study the effects of friction on motion and how to incorporate it into calculations
  • Explore algebraic methods for deriving distance traveled in collision scenarios
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding collision dynamics and motion analysis.

CrazyNeutrino
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If I throw an object of mass m with a velocity v against another object of mass M and is stationary, how far would the second object move? Can you please show me how I would solve this? Just show me how to derive the distance it travels, algebraicaly.
 
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well you know about the conservation of momentum, and I assume the floor has friction. Use these ideas to solve how far it goes
 
Yeah using conservation of momentum I can always find the velocity the object will travel but how will I find how far. Ignore friction.
 
well if there's no friction on the floor, what is stopping it?
 
You would need to know the amount of friction and coefficient of restitution of the collision.
 
Jeez I didn't think of that. What an idiot I am. Sorry
 

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