PHYSICS · Multi-part · A Level · Physics · Mechanics and materials · Mechanics and materials
Problem
Two carts move toward each other on a straight, level air track. Cart D has mass m1 and moves to the right with speed v1. Cart E has mass m2 and moves to the left with speed v2. The carts stick together during the collision and continue as a single object.
(a) Derive an algebraic expression for the speed vf and direction of the combined carts immediately after the collision in terms of m1, m2, v1, and v2.
(b) Use your result from part (a) to obtain an expression for the fraction of the initial kinetic energy that is converted to other forms during the collision.
(c) Evaluate your expressions for the special case m1=m2 and v1=v2. Give a physical interpretation of the outcome.