What is the Velocity of the Third Object After Explosion?

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves an explosion of an object into three equal masses, with two of the masses moving at specified velocities. The objective is to determine the velocity of the third mass, considering the conservation of momentum.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the conservation of momentum and question the initial conditions, particularly the initial velocity of the object before the explosion.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with some participants providing insights on the conservation of momentum and clarifying that the object exploded from rest. There is an exploration of the implications of this condition on the problem.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of the absence of friction and the need to consider the center of mass, which was initially at rest. The lack of explicit initial velocity information is noted as a potential constraint.

VanKwisH
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Homework Statement


An object explodes into 3 equal masses. One mass moves east at a velocity of
15.0 m/s . If a second mass moves at a velocity of 10.0 m/s 45degrees south of east.
What is the velocity of the 3rd object


Homework Equations


I know m1 = m2 = m3 therefore we have just M


The Attempt at a Solution



I have no idea where to start ... can anyone help me get started at least??
 
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Momentum has to be conserved from the Center of mass but you were never given an initial velocity I don't think you can solve it?

EDIT: Did the object explode form rest?
 
yes it exploded from rest, and my teacher said in this case there is no friction ...
 
VanKwisH said:
yes it exploded from rest, and my teacher said in this case there is no friction ...

Momentum has to be conserved for the center of mass of the individual particles, which equaled 0 before the explosion, can you see where to go form here?
 

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