Question

Fill in the missing velocity (x) in the diagram of a vehicle collision seen in the figure below so that momentum is conserved.

Please help! Thanks :(

Answer 1

The velocity of the vehicle, x is 4 m/s

Step-by-step explanation:

Where we have conservation of momentum then we have;

Sum of Initial momentum = Sum of Final momentum

Initial momentum of truck = 5000 kg·m/s

Initial momentum of car = 1600 kg·m/s

Sum of initial momentum of truck and car = 5000 kg·m/s + 1600 kg·m/s = 6600 kg·m/s

Final momentum of truck = = 3400 kg·m/s

Final momentum of car = 800 kg × x m/s

Therefore, by the principle of conservation of momentum, we have;

6600 kg·m/s = 3400 kg·m/s + 800 kg × x m/s

From which;

800 kg × x m/s = 6600 kg·m/s - 3400 kg·m/s = 3200 kg·m/s

x m/s = 3200 kg·m/s /(800 kg) = 4 m/s

The velocity of the vehicle, x = 4 m/s