Solving Inelastic Collision for Two Hockey Players | Physics Problem

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on solving an inelastic collision problem involving two 75 kg hockey players colliding at an angle of 125 degrees. The initial calculations for final velocity components using the formula Vf = m1v1/(m1+m2) are incorrect. Participants suggest applying the conservation of momentum principle, emphasizing the need to establish x and y axes for accurate calculations. A key tip is to define the x-axis along the bisector of the 125-degree angle to simplify momentum calculations. This approach will lead to a more accurate determination of the final velocity after the collision.
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Can anyone tell me what i am doing wrong for this problem?
Two 75 kg hockey players skating at 5.75 m.s collide and stick together. If the angle btween their initial directions was 125 degrees, what is their velocity after the collision?

I used the formula Vf = m1v1/(m1+m2) cos 125 for the x value which is supposed to come out to be 1.23 m/s

and the same formula Vf = m1v1/(m1+m2) sin 125 for the y value which is supposed to come out to be 2.36 m/s.

Thanks !
 
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Go back to basics with conservation of momentum:
m_1\vec{v_1} + m_2\vec{v_2} = (m_1 + m_2)\vec{v_f}

Establish x and y axes, and write expressions for momentum conservation for each direction separately.

Hint: If you define your x-axis to be along the line bisecting that 125 degree angle, your momentum calculations will be greatly simplified.
 

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