A railroad car of mass M moving at a speed v, collides and couples with two coupled railroad cars, each of the same mass M and moving in the same direction at a speed v2. (a) What is the speed vf of the three coupled cars after the collision in terms of V, and v,? +2V2 1. Vf = 3. (b) How much kinetic energy is lost in the collision? Answer in terms of M, v,, and v2. (ュー号) KElost =

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**Physics Problem: Collision of Railroad Cars**

A railroad car of mass \( M \) moving at a speed \( v_1 \) collides and couples with two coupled railroad cars, each of the same mass \( M \) moving in the same direction at a speed \( v_2 \).

**Questions:**

(a) What is the speed \( v_f \) of the three coupled cars after the collision in terms of \( v_1 \) and \( v_2 \)?

\[
v_f = \frac{v_1 + 2v_2}{3}
\]

(b) How much kinetic energy is lost in the collision? Answer in terms of \( M \), \( v_1 \), and \( v_2 \).

\[
KE_{\text{lost}} = \frac{m}{3} \left( v_1 - v_2 \right)^2
\]

**Note:** The final expressions for the speed and kinetic energy lost are enclosed in boxes for emphasis. Errors are marked with a red "X," indicating the need to verify calculations or understanding of the equations. For further assistance, consider reaching out for additional resources or help.

**Need Help?**

If you require further clarification or assistance, please refer to additional educational materials or seek guidance from an instructor.
Transcribed Image Text:**Physics Problem: Collision of Railroad Cars** A railroad car of mass \( M \) moving at a speed \( v_1 \) collides and couples with two coupled railroad cars, each of the same mass \( M \) moving in the same direction at a speed \( v_2 \). **Questions:** (a) What is the speed \( v_f \) of the three coupled cars after the collision in terms of \( v_1 \) and \( v_2 \)? \[ v_f = \frac{v_1 + 2v_2}{3} \] (b) How much kinetic energy is lost in the collision? Answer in terms of \( M \), \( v_1 \), and \( v_2 \). \[ KE_{\text{lost}} = \frac{m}{3} \left( v_1 - v_2 \right)^2 \] **Note:** The final expressions for the speed and kinetic energy lost are enclosed in boxes for emphasis. Errors are marked with a red "X," indicating the need to verify calculations or understanding of the equations. For further assistance, consider reaching out for additional resources or help. **Need Help?** If you require further clarification or assistance, please refer to additional educational materials or seek guidance from an instructor.
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