John Taylor Classical Mechanics Chapter 3, Problem 1

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The discussion focuses on solving a problem from John Taylor's "Classical Mechanics," specifically regarding the conservation of momentum when a gun fires a shell. The problem involves calculating the shell's speed relative to the ground after being fired, given the gun's mass and the shell's mass and muzzle speed. A participant attempts to solve the equation but arrives at an incorrect expression of v/(m/M) instead of the expected v/(1+m/M). Additionally, there is a note that the discussion may be misplaced in the forum, suggesting it would be more appropriate in an introductory physics section. The conversation highlights the importance of correctly applying momentum conservation principles in mechanics problems.
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John Taylor "Classical Mechanics" Chapter 3, Problem 1

Homework Statement


Consider a gun of mass M (when unloaded) that fires a shell of mass m with muzzle speed v. (shell's speed relative to gun is v). Assuming gun is completely free to recoil (no ext. forces on gun or shell), use conservation of momentum to show that shell's speed relative to ground is v/(1+m/M)


Homework Equations


Pinitial=m1v1+m2v2 Pfinal=m1v + m2v=(m1+m2)v vfinal=(m1v1+m2v2/(m1+m2)


The Attempt at a Solution


I got v/(m/M), not the "+1
 
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karmonkey98k said:
Pfinal=m1v + m2v
The gun and shell are not moving together after firing.
Btw, this is the wrong forum. Should be in introductory physics.
 

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