Momentum of an explosion problem. Desperately

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a physics problem involving the conservation of momentum after an explosion. 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, users must apply the momentum equations in both the x-direction and y-direction. The problem emphasizes the importance of understanding vector components and the conservation of momentum principles.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of momentum conservation principles
  • Knowledge of vector decomposition
  • Familiarity with trigonometric functions
  • Basic physics concepts related to explosions and motion
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the conservation of momentum in two dimensions
  • Learn how to decompose vectors into their x and y components
  • Practice solving similar explosion problems in physics
  • Review trigonometric identities and their applications in physics
USEFUL FOR

Students preparing for diploma exams in physics, educators teaching momentum concepts, and anyone needing to reinforce their understanding of vector analysis in motion problems.

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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