Impulse in an inelastic collision

In summary, two particles with masses of 10kg and 30kg are traveling towards each other at a speed of 10m/s. After an inelastic collision, their final velocity is not 10m/s but can be calculated using the equation (m1u1+m2u2)/(m1+m2). To find the impulse of each particle, the equation I=Ft=mv-mu can be used, taking into account their final and initial velocities.
  • #1
TurtleYack
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Homework Statement


2 particles travel towards each other at 10ms-1. Particle 1 has a mass of 10kg and particle 2 has a mass of 30kg. It is an inelastic collision.

Find the magnitude of the Impulse of particle 1 and 2.


Homework Equations


I=Ft=mv-mu
m1u1+m2u2=(m1+m2)V

The Attempt at a Solution


I'm able to calculate the final velocity of the two particles after the collision when they have joined.
((10×10)+(30×10))/(10+30)=10ms-1
but I cannot now calculate the impulse of any of the particles.
For example for particle 1:
mv-mu=(10×10)-(10×10)=0

Could anyone help?
 
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  • #2
10m/s is not the final velocity. Keep in mind that they are colliding, their motion is not in the same direction.

Oh, and please don't forget units.
 

1. What is an inelastic collision?

An inelastic collision is a type of collision in which kinetic energy is not conserved. This means that the total kinetic energy of the objects before and after the collision is not the same. In an inelastic collision, some of the kinetic energy is converted into other forms of energy, such as heat or sound.

2. How is impulse related to inelastic collisions?

Impulse is a measure of the change in momentum of an object. In an inelastic collision, the momentum of the objects before and after the collision may not be the same, meaning there is a change in momentum. Therefore, impulse plays a crucial role in understanding the effects of inelastic collisions.

3. What factors affect impulse in an inelastic collision?

The magnitude of impulse in an inelastic collision is affected by the mass and velocity of the objects involved. Objects with larger masses or higher velocities will experience a greater change in momentum and thus a greater impulse during a collision.

4. How is impulse calculated in an inelastic collision?

Impulse can be calculated by multiplying the force applied during the collision by the time it was applied. This can be represented mathematically as J = F * Δt, where J is impulse, F is force, and Δt is the duration of the collision.

5. What are some real-world examples of inelastic collisions?

Some examples of inelastic collisions include car accidents, where the kinetic energy of the moving vehicles is converted into other forms of energy, such as heat and sound. Also, when a baseball hits a bat, the collision is considered inelastic as some of the kinetic energy is lost due to the deformation of the ball and the sound produced.

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