What is the Velocity of the Combined Freight Cars in a Collision?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a physics problem involving the collision of freight cars, specifically calculating the velocity of two coupled freight cars post-collision. An empty freight car traveling at 10 m/s strikes a stationary loaded freight car, resulting in a combined mass of 15,000 kg. Using the principle of conservation of momentum, the final velocity of the coupled cars is determined to be 2 m/s, not 180 m/s as incorrectly calculated by one participant. The correct application of the momentum formula p=mv is crucial for accurate results.

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  • Understanding of momentum (p=mv)
  • Basic knowledge of physics principles related to collisions
  • Familiarity with mass and velocity concepts
  • Ability to perform algebraic calculations
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  • Learn about impulse and its relationship to momentum
  • Explore real-world applications of momentum in transportation systems
  • Review examples of collision problems in physics textbooks
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Homework Statement


In a freight yard a train is being put together from freight cars. An empty freight car, coasting at 10m/s, strikes a loaded car that is stationary, and the cars couple together. Each of the cars has a mass of 3000 kg when empty, and the loaded car contains 12,000 kg of canned soda. With what speed does the combination of the two cars start to move?


Homework Equations


p=mv (f)(change in time)=p



The Attempt at a Solution


calculated p for empty car p=(10)(3000) p=30,000
calculated the full momentum p=(10)(15000) p=150,000
totaled the masses to find the velocity 180,000=18,000v v=180 m/s
 
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nvm.
 
No i didn't find inertia, but the whole worksheet is dealing with momentum and impulse.
 

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