Question

A 3000 Kg truck moving a speed of 25 m/s, east collides with a 1000 Kg

car that is parked. The two vehicles stick together and move with the
same velocity after the collision. Determine the velocity of the car and
truck after the collision.

Answer 1

18.75 m/s EAST

Step-by-step explanation:

This is a conservation of momentum problem. Total momentum before the collision must equal total momentum after the collision.

Momentum = P = mv

Assume positive direction is to the EAST, negative is to the WEST

v = velocity of car+truck stuck together after the collision

(3000 kg)(25 m/s) + (1000 kg)(0 m/s) = (3000 kg + 1000 kg)(v)

75,000 kg·m/s = (4,000 kg)(v)

v = (75,000 kg·m/s) / (4,000 kg) = 18.75 m/s EAST