Perfectly inelastic collision (distance)

In summary, to determine the distance traveled of an object with an initial velocity colliding with a still object in a perfectly inelastic collision on a frictionless surface, you need to solve for the sum of the final momenta being equal to the sum of the initial momenta. Then, you must determine what will slow down the combined mass system and calculate the net force acting on the system to find the acceleration and ultimately the distance traveled.
  • #1
complexc25
12
0
Lets say an object with an initial velocity collides with a still object. Collision is perfectly inelastic and the surface is frictionless. How can i know how far it traveled?
I solved for the sum of P final = the sum of P initial, but then i don't know how to relate to distance, all i have is velocity.
 
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  • #2
I have the same problem, but my problem has an upward slope of 37 degrees that the objects (connected after collision) travel up. I wish i knew how to do this!
 
  • #3
First you need to determine what will slow down the combined mass system. If there is nothing acting against the motion, then the motion will not stop. Once you've determined the net force acting on the system, you can determine the acceleration of the system, and using your newfound velocity, you can find the distance travelled.
 

FAQ: Perfectly inelastic collision (distance)

What is a perfectly inelastic collision?

A perfectly inelastic collision is a type of collision in which two objects stick together after colliding. This results in a loss of kinetic energy and the formation of a single object with a new combined mass.

What is the formula for calculating distance in a perfectly inelastic collision?

The formula for calculating distance in a perfectly inelastic collision is D = (m1v1 + m2v2) / (m1 + m2), where D is the distance traveled, m1 and m2 are the masses of the colliding objects, and v1 and v2 are their initial velocities.

How does a perfectly inelastic collision differ from an elastic collision?

In a perfectly inelastic collision, the colliding objects stick together and move as one body after the collision, while in an elastic collision, the objects bounce off each other and retain their individual identities. Additionally, in a perfectly inelastic collision, there is a loss of kinetic energy, while in an elastic collision, kinetic energy is conserved.

What are some real-life examples of perfectly inelastic collisions?

A common real-life example of a perfectly inelastic collision is when a car crashes into a wall or another car, resulting in the car crumpling and sticking to the object it collided with. Another example is when two drops of water collide and form a larger drop.

How is the law of conservation of momentum applied in a perfectly inelastic collision?

In a perfectly inelastic collision, the law of conservation of momentum states that the total momentum of the colliding objects before the collision must be equal to the total momentum of the combined object after the collision. This means that the sum of the individual momentums of the objects before the collision must be equal to the momentum of the combined object after the collision.

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