Momentum when object is thrown at angle

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a student on a skateboard throwing a textbook at an angle, requiring the calculation of the student's velocity after the throw. The context includes concepts of momentum and vector components in physics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the conservation of momentum, with one suggesting that momentum is equal and opposite. There is a focus on the vector nature of momentum, particularly the horizontal and vertical components. Questions arise regarding the use of angles in calculations.

Discussion Status

Participants are exploring different interpretations of the momentum equation and questioning the angle used in calculations. Some guidance has been offered regarding the components of momentum, but no consensus has been reached on the correct approach.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of the vertical component of momentum being less significant due to its direction, and confusion about the angle used in calculations, which may indicate a misunderstanding of the problem setup.

jorcrobe
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Homework Statement



A student standing on a stationary skateboard tosses a textbook, mt = 1.05 kg, to a friend standing in front of him. The student and the skateboard have a combined mass of mc = 104 kg and the book leaves his hand at a velocity of 2.25 m/s at and angle of 22 degrees with respect to the horizontal.

Randomized Variables
mt = 1.05 kg
mc = 104 kg
Vb = 2.25 m/s
θ = 22 degrees.

what is an expression for the magnitude of the velocity the student has, Vs, after throwing the book?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I thought that the momentum would be equal and opposite, so I set:

mt(vb)=mc(v)

solved for v, and got .023

I feel as if I am working this terribly wrong.
 
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Momentum is a vector. It has components (vertical, horizontal). The book is thrown at an angle to the horizontal. The vertical component won't do much since it's directed into the Earth. What does that leave you with?
 
mt(vb)cos(30)=mc(v)

?
 
jorcrobe said:
mt(vb)cos(30)=mc(v)

?

That looks promising, but where did the "30" come from?
 
gneill said:
That looks promising, but where did the "30" come from?

Good question. deg 22*


Thanks a bunch!
 

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