- #1
How does momentum conservation apply to a system with two interacting objects?
In summary, the conversation discusses how to answer question 12, part a, which involves using the force-momentum relationship and momentum-time relationship to calculate the force acting on object B. The change in momentum of object A can be used to find the force acting on A, but not the force exerted by A on B. The goal is to find the change in momentum of object B and ultimately show that the total momentum of the system is conserved.
- #2
cnh1995
Homework Helper
Gold Member
- 3,486
- 1,165
Force is exerted "on" B. That will cause "change in momentum of B at some rate". Use force-momentum relationship and momentum-time relationship.
- #3
C0balt
- 7
- 0
well the resultant force is the change in momentum/time interval. So for part a, would I find the change in momentum for truck a?cnh1995 said:
- #4
cnh1995
Homework Helper
Gold Member
- 3,486
- 1,165
Rate of change of momentum of A will give you the force "acting on A" ,not the force exerted by A. You are asked to calculate the force "acting on B" which is exerted by A.
- #5
C0balt
- 7
- 0
Ah so I need to find the change in momentum of the blue line, B?cnh1995 said:
- #6
cnh1995
Homework Helper
Gold Member
- 3,486
- 1,165
For part a? Yes.C0balt said:
- #7
C0balt
- 7
- 0
Thank youcnh1995 said:
- #8
cnh1995
Homework Helper
Gold Member
- 3,486
- 1,165
After solving a and b, you'll see that the momentum lost by A is equal to the momentum gained by B. That's what is expected in part c. The total montemum of the system has been conserved.
FAQ: How does momentum conservation apply to a system with two interacting objects?
What is a momentum against time graph?
A momentum against time graph is a visual representation of the change in an object's momentum over a period of time. It shows how an object's momentum changes as time passes.
How is momentum represented on a momentum against time graph?
Momentum is typically represented on the y-axis of a momentum against time graph, with time on the x-axis. The units for momentum are typically kg m/s.
What does the slope of a momentum against time graph represent?
The slope of a momentum against time graph represents the object's acceleration. A steeper slope indicates a greater acceleration, while a flatter slope indicates a slower acceleration.
How can you determine the net force from a momentum against time graph?
The net force can be determined by calculating the slope of the momentum against time graph and multiplying it by the mass of the object. This is known as Newton's second law of motion: F = ma.
What does a horizontal line on a momentum against time graph indicate?
A horizontal line on a momentum against time graph indicates that the object's momentum is constant. This means that the net force acting on the object is equal to zero, according to the law of conservation of momentum.