Conservation of Momentum problem.

In summary, the time it takes for the larger piece to return to the ground after a collision is the same as the time it takes for the projectile to reach the top of its flight. This is due to both pieces having the same initial vertical speed and acceleration.
  • #1
BareFootKing
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Homework Statement


Example 17.5.1 page 9 :

I understand everything but one assumption that is made. " We can use this to determine the speed of the larger piece after the collision. Since the larger piece takes the same amount of time to return to the ground as the projectile originally takes to reach the top of the flight." Page 10

I don't understand why the time the larger piece takes to get to the ground is the same as the previous peace.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
Hi BareFootKing! :smile:
BareFootKing said:
I don't understand why the time the larger piece takes to get to the ground is the same as the previous peace.

Because both pieces have the same initial vertical speed (zero), and the same vertical acceleration. :wink:
 
  • #3
Thank you very much.
 

FAQ: Conservation of Momentum problem.

What is the conservation of momentum principle?

The conservation of momentum principle states that in a closed system, the total momentum before a collision is equal to the total momentum after the collision. This means that the total amount of momentum in a system remains constant, even if individual objects within the system may experience changes in momentum.

Why is the conservation of momentum principle important?

The conservation of momentum principle is important because it is a fundamental law of physics that applies to all types of collisions and interactions. It helps us understand and predict the motion of objects in a system, and is essential in fields such as mechanics, astrophysics, and engineering.

What are some real-life examples of conservation of momentum?

Some examples of conservation of momentum in action include the recoil of a firearm, the bouncing of a ball off a wall, and the motion of a rocket in space. In each of these cases, the total momentum of the system remains constant, even if individual objects within the system experience changes in momentum.

How is the conservation of momentum principle related to Newton's third law of motion?

The conservation of momentum principle is closely related to Newton's third law of motion, which states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. In the context of conservation of momentum, this means that the momentum lost by one object in a collision is equal to the momentum gained by the other object, resulting in a balanced system.

What are some common misconceptions about the conservation of momentum principle?

One common misconception is that the conservation of momentum only applies to objects that are moving at the same speed. In reality, the principle applies to all types of collisions, even if the objects have different velocities. Another misconception is that momentum is always conserved in a system. While this is generally true, there are some situations, such as inelastic collisions, where momentum may not be conserved due to external forces acting on the objects.

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