The discussion revolves around a problem in mechanics, specifically focusing on the final speed of a mass collision using conservation of momentum principles.
Participants have shared their interpretations of the momentum equation and have begun to explore the implications of mass relationships. Some guidance has been offered regarding the substitution of mass values, but there remains uncertainty about the initial velocity and its role in the calculations.
There is a specific mention of mass values, with m2 being five times m1, but the initial velocity is noted as missing, which adds complexity to the problem. Participants are navigating these constraints while attempting to clarify their understanding.
Please show this part you've done.ola_12 said:I am stuck, please help. I did the conservation part but then i can't move on.
Yes, that will give the speed of the combined object assuming that m1 > m2 .ola_12 said:m1Vi1 + m2Vi2 = m1Vf2 + m2Vf2
Vf = Vi(m1-m2) / (m1+m2)
this is how i interpreted it, I'm not sure if I'm on the right track or not.
The smaller mass m1 is 100 grams while the larger mass m2 is 500 grams. This means that m2=5*m1. We can use this fact to place it in the equation that you found earlier to find the final speed Vf in terms of the initial speed Vi.ola_12 said:No, I think you've lost me guys, I'm not sure I'm getting what y'all mean about m2 = 5*m1. what about the initial velocity that we don't have? Cause when i substitute m2 I still can't get Vf.