Solve Kinematic Equations for Collision of Carts

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a kinematic problem involving the collision of two carts, where the original poster seeks assistance in formulating an algebraic equation to determine the conditions under which the carts will collide. The problem involves variables such as initial positions, velocities, and accelerations of both carts.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the need to equate the positions of both carts at the time of collision and explore the kinematic equations relevant to time and position. There are attempts to modify equations to account for initial positions and to clarify the implications of zero initial velocities.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, questioning assumptions about initial positions and velocities, and discussing how to set up equations for both carts. Some guidance has been provided regarding the structure of kinematic equations, but there is no explicit consensus on the final approach to solving the problem.

Contextual Notes

There is an ongoing discussion about the implications of different initial positions for the carts and how to incorporate these into the equations. The original poster expresses uncertainty about the physics concepts involved, indicating a need for clarification on the application of kinematic equations.

  • #31
Alright so I got
Xb+v0T+(1/2)-(aB)t^2=0+v0T+(1/2)aAT^2
 
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  • #32
Bocian said:
Alright so I got
Xb+v0T+(1/2)-(aB)t^2=0+v0T+(1/2)aAT^2

Be careful with your formatting. That minus sign in the middle of the acceleration term on the left side looks like an operator dividing two terms. Move the minus sign outside of the term. Use the same case for the same variables; it looks like t and T are separate variables.

What are the initial velocities of each cart?
 
  • #33
The initial velocity is both 0. Ok I replaced the + with a - on the left and removed parenthesis around ab
 
  • #34
Bocian said:
The initial velocity is both 0. Ok I replaced the + with a - on the left and removed parenthesis around ab

So if the initial velocities are both zero, what values will you plug in for the ##V_0##'s in your equation?
 
  • #35
Remove them since are 0?
 
  • #36
Bocian said:
Remove them since are 0?

Of course. I would have thought that would be obvious.

It is painful to try to apply and work with equations if you don't understand what the terms are and what they represent physically. You should be able to look at all the basic kinematic equations and describe what each term represents.

You should already have been introduced to writing and solving equations in your studies. These are very basic things that you seem to be struggling with. Perhaps you need to find a tutorial on basic algebra?
 
Last edited:
  • #37
Yes, I just didn't simplfy it yet. This is my first physics lesson so I'm still learning the basics. Our teacher said it would be challenging for us. Thanks for bearing with me on this.
 

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