Momentum of an explosion problem. Desperately

AI Thread Summary
An object explodes into three equal masses, with one mass moving east at 15.0 m/s and another at 10.0 m/s at 40 degrees south of east. To find the velocity of the third mass, the conservation of momentum must be applied in both the x and y directions. The momentum equations for each direction need to be established to solve for the unknown velocity. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding momentum concepts for diploma exam preparation. Clarification on the momentum equations is sought to assist with solving the problem.
Alphonso
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Homework Statement



An object explodes into three equal masses. One mass moves east with a velocity of 15.0m/s. A second mass moves at a velocity of 10.0m/s at 40 degrees south of east. What is the velocity of the third mass?

I desperately need help, i forgot my notes at school over the weekend, and this is material from the beginning of the year and I am confused as to where to start. Any help/ suggestions with where to start would really be appreciated as this is diploma exam prep.
 
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Hi Alphonso,

Alphonso said:

Homework Statement



An object explodes into three equal masses. One mass moves east with a velocity of 15.0m/s. A second mass moves at a velocity of 10.0m/s at 40 degrees south of east. What is the velocity of the third mass?

I desperately need help, i forgot my notes at school over the weekend, and this is material from the beginning of the year and I am confused as to where to start. Any help/ suggestions with where to start would really be appreciated as this is diploma exam prep.

You have the correct word "momentum" in the title. What is the momentum equation in the x-direction? in the y-direction?
 

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