Fundamentals of Physics Extended (10th Edition)

Published by Wiley
ISBN 10: 1-11823-072-8
ISBN 13: 978-1-11823-072-5

Chapter 9 - Center of Mass and Linear Momentum - Questions - Page 245: 8c

Answer

Block 1 is moving backward after the collision.

Work Step by Step

If the center of mass is at point C, then $m_1 \lt m_2$ We can use equation (9-67) to find an expression for the final velocity $v_{1f}$ of block 1 after the collision: $v_{1f} = \frac{m_1-m_2}{m_1+m_2}~v_{1i}$ Since $m_1 \lt m_2,$ then $v_{1f} \lt 0,$ so block 1 is moving backward after the collision.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.