Chapter 9, Problem 4EP

Verify that your equation has the masses and the velocities before and after the collision. If not, review your result with a classmate or your instructor. Solve the equation for the initial velocity of the projectile, v_o.

Note that to calculate the initial projectile velocity v_o, the velocity V of the block and projectile combination needs to be known. (The values of the masses can be determined with a balance.) So far, only one conservation principle has been used—the conservation of linear momentum. Now consider the mechanical energy of the system after the collision. Write an expression for the kinetic energy of the system (the mass and bob combo) immediately after collision, and label it Eq. 2.

As the bob swings upward from h₁ to a maximum height h₂ (GL Fig. 9.1), what is happening to the kinetic energy of the system (neglecting friction)?

If the kinetic energy is decreasing, is there another form of mechanical energy in the system that may be increasing? If so, what is it?

Write an equation for the mechanical energy of the system at h₂, and call it Eq. 3.