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 has a mass of 0.50 kg and is initially moving to the right at 2.4 m/s toward a second block of mass 0.50 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.) What is the velocity of the first block after the collision? What is the velocity of the second block after the collision? 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+0.5v2=0.5*2.4

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

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

Solving these equations we get

v1=-0.75 m/s

v2=3.15 m/s

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