Physics Inelastic Collision: Initial Velocities & Kinetic Energy

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving an inelastic collision problem involving a truck and a car. The truck, weighing 3000 kg, collides with a stationary car weighing 1000 kg, resulting in both vehicles sticking together and moving at a final velocity of 15 m/s. The kinetic energy loss during the collision is quantified as 100 kJ. To determine the initial velocities of both vehicles prior to the collision, participants emphasize the importance of applying the conservation of momentum principle and setting up the appropriate equations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of conservation of momentum in inelastic collisions
  • Knowledge of kinetic energy calculations
  • Familiarity with basic physics equations
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic equations to solve for unknowns
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the conservation of momentum in inelastic collisions
  • Learn how to calculate initial velocities using momentum equations
  • Explore kinetic energy loss calculations in collisions
  • Review examples of inelastic collision problems for practical understanding
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Students studying physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding inelastic collisions and momentum conservation principles.

onecoolcat
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Can anyone help me with a physics Inelastic Collision question:

A truck mass weighing 3000kg collides into a car that is at rest weighing mass 1000kg. they stick together after the collision and the kinetic energy loss was 100kj=J. The final velocity after the collision is 15 m/s. I need to find out what the initial velocity of the two vehicles were prior to the collision and change in kinetic energy. My teacher show how to find the velocity AFTER the collision but nothing about how to find the velocity PRIOR to the collision. Can anyone help?
 
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onecoolcat said:
My teacher show how to find the velocity AFTER the collision but nothing about how to find the velocity PRIOR to the collision.
You use a similar method/equation. The only difference is that you'll be solving for a different unknown.

What's conserved during the collision? Set up a conservation equation.
 

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