Elastic Collision: Exciting Physics Phenomenon

Are you ready to dive into the thrilling world of physics collisions?

Let's explore the scenario where two carts engage in an elastic collision. Cart A with a mass of 0.550 kg is moving towards Cart B with the same mass, initially at rest. Cart A stops after the collision, and Cart B begins to move.

Let's ponder on some questions:

A) If cart A has an initial velocity of 0.8 m/s, what is the velocity of Cart B after the collision?

B) What is the initial kinetic energy of Cart A?

C) What is the initial kinetic energy of Cart B?

D) What is the final kinetic energy of Cart A?

Answers:

A) The velocity of Cart B after the collision is 0.8 m/s.

B) The initial kinetic energy of Cart A is 0.176 J.

C) The initial kinetic energy of Cart B is 0 J.

D) The final kinetic energy of Cart A is 0 J.

The momentum of the system before and after the collision remains conserved, and the total kinetic energy of the system is preserved as well. In an elastic collision, both momentum and kinetic energy are maintained.

By applying the conservation laws, we can determine that the velocity of Cart B after the collision is 0.8 m/s. The initial kinetic energy of Cart A is calculated to be 0.176 Joules, while Cart B's initial kinetic energy is 0 J due to its initial rest state.

After the collision, Cart A comes to a stop, leading to a final kinetic energy of 0 J for Cart A. This fascinating physics concept showcases the interplay between momentum and energy in collisions.

If you want to delve deeper into the world of Conservation of Momentum and Kinetic Energy, feel free to explore further: [URL]