How to Calculate Average Force Vectors During a Collision?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the average force vectors acting on two bodies during a completely inelastic collision. The bodies have specified masses and initial velocities, and the collision duration is given.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply the momentum impulse theorem but expresses confusion regarding the calculation of average force vectors. Some participants suggest using the change in momentum to find the force, while others question the steps taken in the calculations.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants exploring different methods to derive the average force. Some guidance has been offered in the form of step-by-step suggestions, and the original poster has indicated progress in understanding the problem.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of a specific answer that the original poster is trying to understand, but the reasoning behind it remains unclear. The discussion includes potential misunderstandings about the application of the impulse-momentum theorem.

iluvphys
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Hi friends,
I am preparing for my exam and i am stuck with this problem, please help me out.
It won't take too long, I hope.

Homework Statement


Two bodies A and B have masses mA and mB respectively and collide completely inelastic.
Given that the mass of body A is 1200 kg and body B is 800 kg determine the avergage force vectors acting on each body during the collision. The collision itself lasts for 0.2 s.


Homework Equations


Velocity of body A: (5i + 3j) m/s
Velocity of body B: (-i + 4j) m/s

Common velocity after collision I found to be: (2.6i + 3.4j) m/s (this eq was derived in a previous question with mA = 3/2 mB)

The Attempt at a Solution


Well, I have tried using the momentum impulse theorem only to find out that the total momentum was conserved, which is good indeed. However I don't know how to find the answer I have kind of like used up my knowledge on impulse.
The answer is (-14400i + 2400j) N.
I have no clue how this answer was derived.
Please help.
 
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To find the force on a given body, use the impulse-momentum theorem:

[tex]\vec{F}\Delta t = \Delta (m\vec{v})[/tex]

What's the change in momentum of body A?
 
I have tried this equation but I just seem to get -4000i+16000j. But this seems to be wrong.
Any further advice? I mean I substituted the final momentum from the initial momentum of A and divided by time, which however is initial momentum of B.
Doesnt make sense. Please help
 
Do it step by step:
(1) Find the change in velocity of A. (Final velocity minus initial.)
(2) Then find the change in momentum.
(3) Then the force.
 
Hi Doc Al,
I am really sorry for the late response but I was so busy studying that i haven't been able to check the post.
THank you very much for your help, I finally got it (actually right now). I followed your steps and I am really thankful for your help.
 
Excellent. (And you are very welcome.)
 

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