A 1.2 kg cart moving at 6.0 m/s [E] collides with a stationary 1.8 kg cart. The head-on collision is completely elastic and is cushioned by a spring. a)Find the velocity of each cart after the collision. B) The maximum compression of the spring during the collision is 2.0 cm. Find the spring constant.
so I alreayd have the answer dont answer part A just read the teachers feedback and fix my answer for part B thank you
here is the question
A 1.2 kg cart moving at 6.0 m/s [E] collides with a stationary 1.8 kg cart. The head-on collision is completely elastic and is cushioned by a spring.
a)Find the velocity of each cart after the collision.
B) The maximum compression of the spring during the collision is 2.0 cm. Find the spring constant.
Teachers feedback :
Question 2b) you ignored the fact that the combined masses are still moving when the spring is compressed. Try again?
Here is the answer :
For Part B:
Using energy conservation
1/2 kx^2= ½ M2V2^2
Given maximum compersion X= 2 cm 0.02m
Kx (0.02)^2 = 1.8 x (4.8)^2
K= 103680 N.M
The spring constant K= 103680 N/M
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