How Is Momentum Conserved in a Glider Collision?

[paulsberardi]

Homework Statement

Gliders C and D, of masses 2kg and 4kg, respectively, collide on a frictionless track. Glider C initially moves to the right with a speed of .6 m/s relative to the track, while glider D is at rest. After the collision, glider C moves to the left with a speed of .2 m/s. System S consists of gliders C and D.

Homework Equations

What is the magnitudes and directions of the momentum vectors for glider C, glider D, and system S before and after the collision?

Is the momentum of system S before the collision the same as it is after the collision? Explain.

The Attempt at a Solution

I was able to find the momentum of glider C before and after the collision using p=mv. I also knew glider D would not have a momentum vector before the collision because it is at rest.

I could not find the momentum of glider D after the collision or the momentum vectors of system S.

 

[Kurdt]

You know momwntum is a conserved quantity. Therefore the momentum before should equal the momentum afterwards.