A question on momentum conservation of bodies in combined motion

  • #1
internationallove089
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momentum conservation, newton's laws
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Frictions are neglected in the system pictured. Here, a 1kg object released from above moves the car underneath. When this object falls off the car, what is its speed in m/s?

This question was asked from momentum conservation, but I didn't want to do it from there. Can you solve the question from momentum conservation first? Secondly, the answer in my solution is not included in the options..

I find the answer to be 0.29 m/s.

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  • #2
You should try momentum and mechanical energy conservation because it is the easier approach to this problem. Note that momentum is conserved in the horizontal direction but not the vertical. Once you have seen how the answer is put together, you can then try sorting out the kinematics equations and free body diagrams.

Whichever way you try to solve this, use symbols instead of numbers to keep track of what you are doing and helps us figure out where you went wrong in case you need additional help. Also, please take some time to learn how to use LaTeX to post your equations. Click on the link "LaTeX Guide" above the "Attach files" button.
 
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  • #3
kuruman said:
You should try momentum and mechanical energy conservation because it is the easier approach to this problem. Note that momentum is conserved in the horizontal direction but not the vertical. Once you have seen how the answer is put together, you can then try sorting out the kinematics equations and free body diagrams.

Whichever way you try to solve this, use symbols instead of numbers to keep track of what you are doing and helps us figure out where you went wrong in case you need additional help. Also, please take some time to learn how to use LaTeX to post your equations. Click on the link "LaTeX Guide" above the "Attach files" button.
The objects move together, so we need to find the speed of the object as it leaves the end of the car to solve for conservation of momentum. But for this, we need to determine the final speed in the system in which they move together..
 
  • #4
internationallove089 said:
The objects move together, so we need to find the speed of the object as it leaves the end of the car to solve for conservation of momentum. But for this, we need to determine the final speed in the system in which they move together..
"Move together" means that one does not move relative to the other and they have the same velocity and acceleration. If the block falls off the wedge, it does "move together" with the block. It moves separatly from the block with its own velocity and acceleration down the incline. The wedge on wheels moves with horizontal velocity and acceleration to the right.
 

Related to A question on momentum conservation of bodies in combined motion

1. How does momentum conservation apply to bodies in combined motion?

Momentum conservation applies to bodies in combined motion by stating that the total momentum of a system of interacting bodies remains constant if no external forces are acting on the system.

2. What is the equation for momentum conservation in combined motion?

The equation for momentum conservation in combined motion is: Σp_initial = Σp_final, where Σp represents the total momentum of the system before and after the interaction.

3. Can momentum be lost in a system of bodies in combined motion?

No, momentum cannot be lost in a system of bodies in combined motion. It can only be transferred between the bodies within the system or remain constant if no external forces are present.

4. How does the concept of momentum conservation relate to Newton's third law of motion?

The concept of momentum conservation is closely related to Newton's third law of motion, which states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. This means that the total momentum of a system remains constant due to the exchange of momentum between interacting bodies.

5. What are some real-life examples of momentum conservation in combined motion?

Some real-life examples of momentum conservation in combined motion include collisions between objects, such as billiard balls on a pool table, car crashes, or the recoil of a gun when a bullet is fired. In each of these scenarios, the total momentum of the system remains constant before and after the interaction.

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