An object (A) of mass 0.2kg strikes a second object (B), of mass 0.35kg that is

Question

An object (A) of mass 0.2kg strikes a second object (B), of mass 0.35kg
that is initially at rest. Mass A has an initial velocity of +3 m/s.
A) Assume that the collision is entirely inelastic. Calculate the final state
for these objects. Calculate the total energy for this system before and
after the collision. Is mechanical energy conserved? If not, account
account for the discrepancy.
B) Now assume that the collision is entirely elastic. Calculate and describe
the final velocities for the two objects.

Note: assume that this collision is entirely in one dimension.

Explanation / Answer

as in all collisions, momentum is conserved,

So,

final state of system = 3 x 0.2 /(0.35+0.2) = +1.09 m/s

total energy before collision = 1/2 x 0.2 x 32 = 0.9 J

total energy after collision = 1/2 x 0.55 x 1.092 = 0.3267 J

The discrepency is because of the two bodies sticking together and dissipation of energy as heat, sound and other forms.

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