What formula do I use when dealing with collision, and momentum in this context?

AI Thread Summary
To solve the problem of an object with an initial kinetic energy of 4.0 J returning with half that energy, the relevant formula is KE = 1/2 m * v^2. The object’s return speed is given as 2.0 m/s, leading to a final kinetic energy of 2.0 J. By substituting this value into the kinetic energy formula, the mass can be calculated as 1.0 kg. The discussion confirms that the focus is solely on kinetic energy rather than momentum. The correct answer is 1.0 kg, validating the calculations provided.
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Homework Statement

An object of mass m moving in a certain direction has a kinetic energy of 4.0 J.
It hits a wall and comes back with half its original kinetic energy.

Homework Equations



If the speed of the object on return is 2.0 m/s, what is the mass of the object?
A) 2.8 kg
B) 3.8 kg
C) 1.0 kg
D) 4.0 kg

The Attempt at a Solution



let mass of object = m
speed on return =2
kinetic energ on return = 0.5 m *v*v
kinetic energy initial =0.5*m*v1*v1
kf=0.5 ki
therefor v1= (2)^0.5 v
v1 =2.828 m/s

initial kinetic energy = 4 j
4=0.5*m*v1^2
8=m* 8
m=1 kg

My problem:
I don't understand the solution, nor what formula to use. Please help. Thanks.
I need to know why Answer: C is correct.
 
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You're told that the final KE is 2.0J
You're told the speed, so use the formula for KE to solve for the mass.

This has nothing to do with momentum, only KE
 
So I should use KE = 1/2 m * v^2 to solve this problem, correct?

And I should solve for the mass, correct?
 
KE=1/2m*v^2,
KE =kinetic energy,
m=mass,
v=velocity

Mass comes back with half of its kinetic energy.
Its initial KE=4 so on the way back it's equal to 2

KE=2=1/2m*v^2 multiply each side by 2:
4=m*v^2, v=2m/s so v^2=4:
4=m*4 divide each side by 4
m=1.0 kg



Got the answer. Thanks.
 
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