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If the two masses collide and stick to each other, derive an expression for the

ID: 1451739 • Letter: I

Question

If the two masses collide and stick to each other, derive an expression for the velocity of the combined masses after the collision (involving only the variables k, x, m.) Again, explicitly state what principles of physics you are using, and why. The combined system after the crash ultimately collides with one of the springs (which one, the left one or the right one? Please explain. - Then, compute the maximum compression of that spring (If the spring compresses half as much as the original x, the answer is 0.5)

Explanation / Answer

After the collision if the masses stick together and travel with final velocity.

this collision is called as inelastic collision.

from the conservation of linear momentum

initial moentum= final momentum

given, if both the masses m1 and m2

after the collision m1+m2 = m

initial velocities are u1 and u2

final velocity V=?

initial moentum= final momentum

m1u1+m2u2 =(m1+m2)V

V= (m1u1+m2u2 ) /m m/s

2.

maximum compression in the spring xBy the law of energy conservation:-
=>KE(initial) of ball = PE(final) of spring
=>1/2mu^2 = 1/2kx^2
=>x = [(mu^2/k)]