Max Height of m1 After Elastic Collision on Frictionless Track

AI Thread Summary
To determine the maximum height of block m1 after an elastic collision on a frictionless track, conservation of energy and momentum principles are essential. Block m1, with a mass of 5 kg, is released from a height of 5 meters, while block m2, weighing 10 kg, remains at rest. The interaction between the two blocks is influenced by magnetic repulsion, preventing direct contact. The discussion highlights the need for a clear diagram to visualize the scenario and emphasizes that, with proper application of conservation laws, additional information may not be necessary. The focus remains on calculating the final height of m1 post-collision.
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Two blocks are free to slide along a frictionless wooden track. A block of mass m1=5 kg is released from point A. Protruding from its front end is the north pole of a strong magnet, repelling the north pole of an identical magnet embedded in the back end of the block of mass m2=10 kg, initially at rest. The two blocks never touch. Calculate the maximum height to which m1 rises after the elastic collsion.

m1 is initially at a height of 5 meters. I don't know what equation to use for this problem.
 
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Assume convservation of energy.

Balance momentum before and after impact.
Balance kinetic energy before and after impact.
 
There must be some sort of diagram that goes with this? I believe there is information missing here.

Edit: Though I guess if you work to make the problem meaningful, conservation of energy will make most other information unnecessary.
 
Yeh, I would figure that it is a (vertically) circular track, since m1 has a height and the question asks for a final height.
 
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