Collision finding final velocity

In summary, the problem involves a 0.30kg baseball being pitched at a speed of 70m/s and colliding with a stationary 1.7kg ball, causing the 1.7kg ball to rebound at a speed of 48m/s. The final velocity of the bat as it leaves the batter's hand is unknown. There are two methods used to solve the problem, one using the formula m1vi1 = m1vf1 + m2vf2 and the other using a shortcut formula derived in a textbook. The answers obtained from both methods differ, with one being 20.823m/s and the other being 21m/s, due to the assumption of energy conservation in the collision in the
  • #1
mr1709
6
0
1. A baseball of mass 0.30kg is pitched at 70m/s (fwd) at a batter. The ball knocks the stationary 1.7kg ball out of the batters hands and the ball rebounds at 48m/s (backwards). What is the final velocity of the bat as it leaves the batters hand?

variables
m1 = 0.30 vi= 70 vf = -48

m2= 1.7 vi = 0 vf = ?3. This issue i ran into in this problem is i get two different answers depending on the method used to solve.

Method one:

m1vi1 = m1vf1 + m2vf2
0.30(70) = 0.30(-48) + 1.7(vf)
vf = 20.823

Method two: Using a shortcut formula derived in textbook

for reference, this is the formula I am talking about that the book derived

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/imgmec/elacol18.gif


formula : vf2= (m2-m1)/(m2+m1) * vi2 + (2m1)/(m1 + m2) * vi1
first part of formula cancels due to vi2 being 0. Therefore:
vf2= 0.60/2 * 70
= 21 m/s

How come the answers differ? I don't have the correct answer as it wasnt given in the worksheet so I am not sure which method is correct
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Your second formula assumes energy is conserved in the collision. It doesn't have to be.
 
  • Like
Likes mr1709

FAQ: Collision finding final velocity

What is "collision finding final velocity"?

Collision finding final velocity is a scientific concept used to determine the final velocity of an object after a collision with another object. It involves analyzing the initial velocities and masses of the objects involved in the collision, as well as the type of collision (e.g. elastic or inelastic).

Why is it important to calculate the final velocity after a collision?

Calculating the final velocity after a collision is important because it allows us to understand the behavior of objects during collisions and predict the outcome of future collisions. It also helps in designing safer and more efficient systems, such as car safety features or sports equipment.

What factors affect the final velocity after a collision?

The final velocity after a collision is affected by several factors, including the initial velocities and masses of the objects, the type of collision, and the presence of external forces such as friction. Other factors, such as the shape and elasticity of the objects, can also play a role in determining the final velocity.

How is the final velocity calculated in a collision?

The final velocity after a collision can be calculated using the principles of conservation of momentum and conservation of kinetic energy. These equations take into account the initial velocities and masses of the objects, as well as the type of collision, and can be solved to determine the final velocity of the objects involved.

Are there any real-life applications of collision finding final velocity?

Yes, there are many real-life applications of collision finding final velocity. It is used in fields such as physics, engineering, and sports to understand and predict the outcome of collisions. It is also used in designing safety features for cars and other vehicles, and in analyzing the effects of collisions in sports such as football or hockey.

Back
Top