Momentum, conservation of linear momentum problem

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on a conservation of linear momentum problem involving two carts: a 2.1-kg cart moving at +5.9 m/s and a 1.4-kg cart initially at rest. The total momentum of the system is calculated using the formula P = (m1)(V1) + (m2)(V2), resulting in P = 9.59 kg·m/s. Additionally, the initial velocity of the first cart when the second cart was at rest is determined to be 4.57 m/s. The calculations confirm the principles of momentum conservation in a frictionless environment.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of linear momentum and its conservation principles
  • Familiarity with basic physics formulas, specifically P = mv
  • Knowledge of mass and velocity units (kg and m/s)
  • Concept of frictionless surfaces in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the implications of momentum conservation in elastic and inelastic collisions
  • Learn about the effects of friction on momentum in real-world scenarios
  • Explore advanced topics in dynamics, such as impulse and momentum transfer
  • Investigate the role of magnetic forces in motion and momentum changes
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics, as well as anyone interested in understanding momentum conservation in practical applications.

jehan4141
Messages
90
Reaction score
0
A 2.1-kg cart is rolling along a frictionless, horizontal track towards a 1.4-kg cart that is held initially at rest. The carts are loaded with strong magnets that cause them to attract one another. Thus, the speed of each cart increases. At a certain instant before the carts collide, the first cart's velocity is +5.9 m/s, and the second cart's velocity is -2.0 m/s. (a) What is the total momentum of the system of the two carts at this instant? (b) What was the velocity of the first cart when the second cart was still at rest?

P = (m1)(V1) + (m2)(V2) = (2.1)(5.9) + (1.4)(-2)
P = 9.59 ??

P = (m1)(V1)
V1 = P / m1
V1 = 9.59 / 2.1
V1 = 4.57 ??
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Other than the units, looks good to me.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
6K
  • · Replies 40 ·
2
Replies
40
Views
5K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
7K
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 24 ·
Replies
24
Views
4K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
4K
Replies
8
Views
4K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
5K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K