Speed of Separation between 2 masses?

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SUMMARY

The problem involves two astronauts and an object in space, focusing on the conservation of momentum. When a 60 kg astronaut throws a 4.0 kg object at 10 m/s, the momentum before and after the throw must be conserved. The correct calculation shows that the speed of separation between the two astronauts is 0.8 m/s, factoring in the recoil of the first astronaut and the mass of the second astronaut. The final velocity of separation is derived from the combined velocities of both astronauts after the object is thrown.

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Homework Statement



Outside the International Space Station, a 60 kg astronaut holding a 4.0 kg object (both initially at rest) throws the object at 10 m/s relative to the space station. A 50 kg astronaut, initially at rest, catches the object. What is the speed of separation of the two astronauts?

Homework Equations



p = mv
FΔt = Δp

Law of Cons. of Momentum
Pi = Pf

The Attempt at a Solution



Pi = Pf
(4)(10) = (50)(v)
v = 0.8 m/s

which is wrong :( not sure how to approach this question, any help please? thank you!
 
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When the astronaut throws the with some velocity, he will recoil. Find the velocity of recoil v of the first astronaut.
For second astronaut,
m1v1 = (m1 + m2)v2.
where m1 is the mass of the object and v1 its velocity. m2 is the mass of the second astronaut and v2 is the combined velocity.
finally the velocity of separation is (v+v2)
 

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