Man Ejects from Car at 50km/hr: Momentum Calculation

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In summary, momentum is a measure of an object's motion, calculated by multiplying its mass and velocity. It is related to Newton's laws of motion through the law of conservation of momentum. The speed of the car may affect the force with which a person is ejected, but not their momentum. Momentum can also be negative if the direction of motion is opposite to the chosen reference frame.
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whitestrat69
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Homework Statement


A man (mass 80kg) reaches the edge of a 20m cliff in his car (mass 1600kg) at a speed of 150km/hr. He drives off the edge without a change in velocity.

Calculate the speed at which he enters the water if he ejects from his car at 50km/yr just as the car reaches the water?
 
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Show what you've done so far.

Also, the direction of ejection is not mentioned. That is crucial.
 
  • #3
Hmm...kilometres per year is an interesting unit.
 

FAQ: Man Ejects from Car at 50km/hr: Momentum Calculation

What is momentum?

Momentum is a measure of an object's motion. It is the product of an object's mass and its velocity.

What is the formula for calculating momentum?

The formula for calculating momentum is: p = m x v, where p is momentum, m is mass, and v is velocity.

How is momentum related to Newton's laws of motion?

Momentum is related to Newton's laws of motion through the law of conservation of momentum. This law states that the total momentum of a closed system remains constant, unless acted upon by an external force.

How does the speed of the car affect the momentum of the ejected person?

The speed of the car does not affect the momentum of the ejected person, as their momentum is determined by their mass and velocity. However, the speed of the car may affect the force with which the person is ejected.

Can momentum be negative?

Yes, momentum can be negative if the velocity and direction of motion are in the opposite direction of the chosen reference frame. This is known as negative momentum or backward momentum.

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