Solving a Momentum Conservation Problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a momentum conservation problem involving two marbles. A 2.0-gram marble moving left at 2.0 m/s collides with a 3.0-gram marble moving right at 2.0 m/s. After the collision, the first marble moves to the right at 1.5 m/s. By applying the momentum conservation equation, m1v1 + m2v2 (before) = m1v1 + m2v2 (after), participants determine the velocity of the second marble post-collision, which is essential for understanding momentum conservation in elastic collisions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of momentum conservation principles
  • Familiarity with basic physics equations
  • Knowledge of mass and velocity units (grams and meters per second)
  • Ability to set up equations based on given conditions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the concept of elastic and inelastic collisions in physics
  • Learn how to apply the conservation of momentum in multi-object systems
  • Explore examples of momentum problems involving different masses and velocities
  • Investigate the effects of friction and external forces on momentum conservation
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and momentum conservation, as well as educators looking for practical examples to illustrate these concepts.

Ereny
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Homework Statement



A marble with a mass of 2.0 grams moves to the left with a velocity of 2.0m/s when is collides with a 3.0 gram marble moving in the opposite direction with a velocity of 2.0 m/s. if the first marble has a velocity of 1.5m/s to the right after the collision determine the velocity of the second marble after the collision.


Homework Equations



(before) m1v1 + m2v2 = m1v1 + m2v2 (after)


The Attempt at a Solution



i need help setting it up and i will be all good..
 
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Ereny said:

The Attempt at a Solution



i need help setting it up and i will be all good..

Split the problem up into what is happening before and after the collision

Ereny said:

Homework Statement



A marble with a mass of 2.0 grams moves to the left with a velocity of 2.0m/s when is collides with a 3.0 gram marble moving in the opposite direction with a velocity of 2.0 m/s. if the first marble has a velocity of 1.5m/s to the right after the collision determine the velocity of the second marble after the collision.

From reading the problem you can see that the first line gives what is happening before collision. If we take left direction as negative, the the first marble has the mass = 2 g and velocity = - 2 m/s.

So what is it's momentum? Do the same for the 3 g marble.

Now you add them up and you will have the total momentum (i.e. the momentum before collision - left side of your relevant equations).

The second line tells you what is happening after collision, do the same here and equate the two. (call the velocity of the second marble v)
 

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