Question

Respond to the following in a minimum of 175 words:

• Refer to Ch. 6 of Conceptual Physics & Mastering Physics™ Interactive Figure 6.18: "Two Dimensional Inelastic Collisions." If you witnessed a broadside collision, would you expect that the velocities and weights of the cars determine where the cars will land after the collision? Why or why not? Provide an example of a safety measure that can be used to decrease the impact of these collisions?

Answer 1

Solution:

"Two Dimensional Inelastic Collisions"

As we know;

A collision where two objects hit, but do not stick together is Inelastic in nature,defined as per the value of 'e'.

The position of the cars will be determined by the force of the collision. The momentum of the two cars that hit each other

would determine the final velocities of the cars considering the mass stays the same i.e, NO PARTS OF THE CAR

DETACHES FROM IT DURING COLLISION.

If the cars had similar masses, and one car was moving with greater momentum, then the momentum would be distributed accordingly.

Here the equation for the final velocities v1' and v2' ::

p1 + p2 = p1' + p2'

=> m1v1 + m2v2 = m1v1' + m2v2' {Using Conservation of momentum law}

A larger velocity would mean that the cars would go further after the collision.

Safety Measure::

1. Reduce Mass

2. Reduce speed

3. Various seat belt and safety bags equipment intact. etc..