Question

A van of mass 2500kg travelling at a velocity of 12 m/s collides with a stationary car of mass 700kg. The vehicles move together after the impact. Calculate their velocity.​

Answer 1

Answer: 9.375m/s

Explanation: This is an inelastic collision, so the formula is mv1+mv2=(m1+m2)v-final. My work is a follows:

2500kg(12m/s) + 700kg(0m/s)=(2500kg+700kg)(v-final)

30,000kg(m/s)+0=3200kg(v-final)

30,000kg(m/s)/3200kg=9.375m/s