Energy and momentum conservation

In summary, the law of conservation of energy states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, but can be transformed. Momentum conservation is a consequence of energy conservation, and both principles have real-life applications in various fields. Energy and momentum cannot be conserved individually and can be used to solve complex problems in science and engineering.
  • #1
domagoj412
9
0
One more problem to solve...

A soldier on skis fires a bullet from rifle horizontally. After what distance will soldier stop moving if coefficient of friction between surface of skis and snow is 0,01. Mass of bullet is 0,01 kg, initial speed of fired bullet is 900 m/s and mass of soldier, rifle and skis is 60 kg?

Correct solution is: s=2,9 cm

With momentum conservation I have calculated initial horizontal speed of soldier:

m1*v1=m2*v2
60*v1=0,01*900
v1=0,15 m/s

Kinetic energy is wasted on friction:
Ek=W
Ek=F*s
1/2*mv^2=m*g*u*s (u is friction coef.)

s=11,47 cm

which is incorrect. Why?
 
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  • #2
Your solution looks OK to me.
 
  • #3
Doc Al said:
Your solution looks OK to me.

But something has to be wrong :mad:
 
  • #4
A typo, perhaps? What book are you using?
 

FAQ: Energy and momentum conservation

What is the law of conservation of energy?

The law of conservation of energy states that energy can neither be created nor destroyed, but it can be transformed from one form to another. This means that in a closed system, the total amount of energy remains constant.

How does momentum conservation relate to energy conservation?

Momentum conservation is a consequence of energy conservation. In a closed system, if there is no external force acting on the system, the total momentum will remain constant. This is because any change in momentum would require energy, which cannot be created or destroyed.

What are some real-life applications of energy and momentum conservation?

Energy and momentum conservation are important principles in many fields, including physics, engineering, and environmental science. Some examples of real-life applications include analyzing collisions in car accidents, designing efficient energy systems, and understanding the movement of objects in space.

Can energy and momentum be conserved individually?

No, energy and momentum are always conserved together. In situations where one appears to be conserved but the other is not, it is likely that energy has been transformed into a different form, such as heat or sound.

How can we use the conservation of energy and momentum to solve problems?

By understanding and applying the laws of conservation of energy and momentum, we can analyze and solve complex problems involving the motion and interactions of objects. This allows us to make accurate predictions about the behavior of systems and design efficient and effective solutions in various fields of science and engineering.

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