Momentum Change in Perfectly Inelastic Collision: Comparing Cars and Trucks

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SUMMARY

In a perfectly inelastic collision between a compact car and a large truck, the truck experiences a larger momentum change due to its greater mass. The momentum change is calculated using the formula p=mv, where the mass of the truck significantly influences the overall momentum. Although both vehicles experience equal forces and time during the collision, the truck's larger mass results in a greater change in momentum. Consequently, the compact car experiences a larger acceleration due to its smaller mass, as defined by the equation I=Ft.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of momentum (p=mv)
  • Knowledge of impulse (I=Ft)
  • Concept of perfectly inelastic collisions
  • Basic principles of Newton's second law of motion
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of conservation of momentum in collisions
  • Explore the effects of mass on acceleration in collision scenarios
  • Learn about different types of collisions: elastic vs. inelastic
  • Investigate real-world applications of collision physics in automotive safety
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and collision theory, as well as educators looking to explain momentum and acceleration concepts in practical scenarios.

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Homework Statement



A compact car and a large truck collide head on and stick together (perfectly inelastic collison).

Which vehicle experiences the larger momentum change?

Which vehicle experiences the larger acceleration during the collision?

Explain your answers.

Homework Equations



p=mv
I=Ft

The Attempt at a Solution



I think that the truck has a larger momentum change because, first of all, it is conserved, so p=pfinal-initial

Assuming the velocities are the same, only the mass should affect the momentum. So that's why I thought the truck has a larger momentum change.

But I'm not sure..I look at I=Ft and the forces are equal, and so is the time..So would they have equal change in momentum?

HELP! thanks!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
The truck will carry on in the same direction with modified velocty, whereas the unfortunate car will find itself going backwards. Now which one has suffered the largest change in momentum? acceleration?
 

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