Two blocks can collide in a one-dimensional collision. The block on the left has

Question

Two blocks can collide in a one-dimensional collision. The block on the left hass a mass of 0.50 kg and is initially moving to the right at 2.4 m/s toward a second block of mass 0.60 kg that is initially at rest. When the blocks collide, a cocked spring releases 1.2 J of energy into the system. (For velocities, use + to mean to the right, - to mean to the left.)

(a) What is the velocity of the first block after the collision? ____ m/s
(b) What is the velocity of the second block after the collision? ____m/s
Remember that the blocks cannot pass through each other!

Explanation / Answer

First let's apply conservation of momentum

Let left block's and right block's final velocities are v1 and v2

0.5v1+0.6v2=0.5*2.4

Change in kinetic energu=1.2J=final KE -initial KE

1.2=0.5*0.5*v12+0.5*0.6*v22-0.5*0.5*2.4*2.4

Solving these equations we get

v1=-0.76m/s

v2=2.64m/s

Related Questions

Navigate

• Browse (All)
• Browse T
• Subjects

Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.