What is the Kinetic Energy and Work Done for Separated Space Vehicle

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around a practice test question regarding the kinetic energy and work done during the separation of a space vehicle into two equal masses. It addresses whether kinetic energy is conserved, total energy is conserved, and the implications for momentum. The user is confused about the speed of the moving piece after separation and the calculations for kinetic energy and work done. The consensus suggests that the moving piece's speed is not 2v, and the work done can be determined using the work-energy theorem. Clarification on the distinction between energy and momentum is also emphasized.
pinky2468
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This is a question from a practice test, so it might also be a test question. For some reason I am tripping myself up on it:

A space vehicle mas m has a speed v. At some instant, it separates into two pieces each of mass 0.5m. One of the pieces is at rest just after the separation.
(A) Does this process:
(a)conserve kinetic energy (b)not conserve total energy (c) the moving piece has a speed 2v (d) not conserve momentum

(B)what is the KE of the moving piece just after the separation:
(C) how much work was done by the internal forces that caused the separation:

For part B and C the multiple choice answers are the same
(a.) 0 J (b). 1/4mv^2 (c.)1/2mv^2 (d.) mv^2 (e.) 2mv^2

Any help on this, my first thought were that (A) the speed is 2v (B) 2mv^2 (C) ? not sure
 
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Think about this: which is a vector quantity, energy or momentum?
 
Consider that piece that now has the velocity 2v what was its initial velocity

using the work -energy theorem,

W = \Delta K

that your answer for C

your answers for A and B are fine
 
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