Linear Conservation of Momentum

In summary, the problem involves an 18-kg shell with a muzzle velocity of 185 m/s being fired at 33o above the horizontal. At the top of its trajectory, the shell explodes into two equal mass fragments, with one falling vertically and the other having an unknown horizontal speed. By using conservation of momentum, the x-component of the initial velocity can be found.
  • #1
am08
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A 18-kg shell is fired from a gun with a muzzle velocity 185 m/s at 33o above the horizontal. At the top of the trajectory, the shell explodes into two fragments of equal mass. One fragment, whose speed immediately after the explosion is zero, falls vertically. What is the horizontal speed of the other fragment?
 
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  • #2
Well, I believe that the way to solve this problem is by first finding the x-component of the initial velocity.

Since this is an explosion momentum problem:

[tex]m_Tv_i_x = m_1v_1_x+m_2v_2_x[/tex]

And one of the terms on the right will cancel out since [tex]v_x=0[/tex] for one of them.
 
  • #3
Use conservation of momentum.
 

FAQ: Linear Conservation of Momentum

1. What is the Linear Conservation of Momentum?

The Linear Conservation of Momentum is a fundamental law of physics that states that the total momentum of a closed system remains constant over time, regardless of any external forces acting on the system. This means that in a collision or interaction between two objects, the total momentum before the interaction is equal to the total momentum after the interaction.

2. How is momentum defined?

Momentum is defined as the product of an object's mass and velocity. It is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude and direction. The SI unit for momentum is kilogram-meters per second (kg·m/s).

3. What is an example of the Linear Conservation of Momentum in action?

An example of the Linear Conservation of Momentum is a game of billiards. When the cue ball hits the other balls, the total momentum of the system (cue ball + other balls) remains constant, even though the individual balls may have different velocities and directions after the collision.

4. Does the Linear Conservation of Momentum apply in all situations?

The Linear Conservation of Momentum applies in all situations where there are no external forces acting on the system. This means that it does not apply in situations with air resistance or other external forces that can change the momentum of the system.

5. How is the concept of momentum useful in real life?

The concept of momentum is useful in understanding and predicting the behavior of objects in motion. It is particularly important in fields such as engineering, where it is used to design structures and machines that can withstand or redirect the momentum of moving objects. It is also important in sports, where athletes use their momentum to perform various actions, such as jumping and throwing.

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