Blocks, Collisions, and Friction

In summary, a block of mass m with an initial velocity of v_0 on a rough horizontal surface collides elastically with a block of mass 2m after traveling a distance d. The second block moves a certain distance before coming to rest due to the coefficient of friction, μk. This problem can be solved by using the conservation of momentum and energy equations, and taking into account the effects of kinetic friction on the motion of the blocks.
  • #1
minimario
95
2

Homework Statement


A block of mass m lying on a rough horizontal surface is given an initial velocity of v_0. After traveling a distance d, it makes a head-on elastic collision with a block of mass 2m. How far does the second block move before coming to rest? (Assume that the coefficient of friction, μk, is the same for both blocks.)

Homework Equations


In an elastic collision, the total momentum, mv, is conserved.
In addition, ## v_{1i} - v_{2i} = -(v_{1f} - v_{2f}) ## in an elastic collision.

The Attempt at a Solution


I don't know how the friction is going to work in this problem, but if you let the coefficient be equal to 0 for both blocks, the 2nd block never stops
 
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  • #2
What happens if the coefficient of kinetic friction is not zero?
What is the velocity of the first block just before the collision? Apply work-energy theorem.
What is the velocity of the second block just after the elastic collision? Apply both conservation of momentum and conservation of energy.
The blocks move on after the collision subjected to friction, so they stop after traveling some distance.
 

Related to Blocks, Collisions, and Friction

1. What are blocks in the context of physics?

Blocks, in physics, refer to objects that have a definite shape and size, and can be used to represent other objects in a simplified manner. They are typically used in experiments or simulations to analyze the behavior of more complex systems.

2. How do collisions affect the motion of blocks?

Collisions between blocks can either be elastic or inelastic. In an elastic collision, both blocks bounce off each other with no loss of kinetic energy. In an inelastic collision, the blocks stick together and move with a common velocity. The type of collision will determine how the motion of the blocks is affected.

3. What factors affect the amount of friction between blocks?

The amount of friction between blocks depends on the roughness of their surfaces, the force pressing them together, and the type of material they are made of. Rougher surfaces, higher forces, and stickier materials will result in more friction between the blocks.

4. How can friction be minimized between blocks?

To minimize friction between blocks, you can use lubricants, such as oil or grease, between their surfaces. You can also reduce the force pressing the blocks together, or use smoother materials for the blocks.

5. What is the difference between static and kinetic friction?

Static friction refers to the resistance between two objects that are not moving relative to each other. Kinetic friction, on the other hand, refers to the resistance between two objects that are in motion relative to each other. The force of static friction is typically greater than the force of kinetic friction.

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