Question

A 1550 kg torpedo strikes a 770 kg target that is initially at rest. If the combined torpedo and target move forward with a speed of 9.44 m/s, what is the initial velocity of the torpedo? Assume that no resistance is provided by the water.

Answer 1

To find the initial velocity of the torpedo, we can use the principle of conservation of momentum. By applying the formula and plugging in the given values, the initial velocity of the torpedo is 1792.8 m/s.

Step-by-step explanation:

To find the initial velocity of the torpedo, we can use the principle of conservation of momentum:

mass of torpedo * initial velocity of torpedo = (mass of torpedo + mass of target) * final velocity of combined system

Let's plug in the given values:

1550 kg * initial velocity of torpedo = (1550 kg + 770 kg) * 9.44 m/s

Simplifying the equation, we get:

initial velocity of torpedo = (1550 kg + 770 kg) * 9.44 m/s / 1550 kg

initial velocity of torpedo = 1792.8 m/s

Therefore, the initial velocity of the torpedo is 1792.8 m/s.