Calculating Masses from Disc Explosion Velocities

In summary, two frictionless discs on an air table, initially at rest, are driven apart by an explosion with velocities of 9.0m/s and 5.0m/s. To find the ratio of the masses, we use the equation m1u1=m2u2 and make m2=m1*k (a constant). By plugging in the values, we get k=9/5, which means the ratio of the two masses is that the first has 5/9 of the second's mass. However, the answer key states that the ratio is 0.36, which could be a mistake.
  • #1
puregoodboi
26
0
Two frictionless discs on air table, initially at rest, are driven apart by an explosion with velocities of 9.0m/s and 5.0m/s what is ratio of masses?
how do i get masses if i don't know Momentum ? +__+
 
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  • #2
m1u1=m2u2 Since we want the ratio of m1 and m2 we make m2=m1*k(a constant)
m1(9m/s)=m1*k*5m/s
k=9/5 So the ratio of the two masses is that the 1st has the 5/9 of the seconds mass
 
  • #3
ColdRifle said:
m1u1=m2u2 Since we want the ratio of m1 and m2 we make m2=m1*k(a constant)
m1(9m/s)=m1*k*5m/s
k=9/5 So the ratio of the two masses is that the 1st has the 5/9 of the seconds mass

the answer key says its 0.36 .. why's that?
 
  • #4
I have no idea...maybe they made a mistake or I did one...lol
 

Related to Calculating Masses from Disc Explosion Velocities

1. How do you calculate the mass of a disc from an explosion velocity?

The mass of a disc can be calculated using the formula M = (Vexp2 * R) / (2 * G), where Vexp is the explosion velocity, R is the radius of the disc, and G is the gravitational constant.

2. What units should be used for the explosion velocity and disc radius in the mass calculation?

The explosion velocity should be in units of meters per second (m/s) and the disc radius should be in units of meters (m) for the mass calculation to be accurate.

3. Can this calculation be applied to any type of disc explosion?

Yes, this calculation can be applied to any type of disc explosion as long as the explosion velocity and disc radius are known. However, the accuracy of the result may vary depending on the specific circumstances of the explosion.

4. What are the assumptions made in this mass calculation method?

This method assumes that the explosion velocity is solely due to the mass of the disc and that the disc is uniform in density. It also assumes that the gravitational force is the only force acting on the disc.

5. How can this mass calculation be useful in scientific research?

Calculating the mass of a disc from an explosion velocity can provide valuable information about the composition and structure of the disc. This can be useful in various fields such as astrophysics, geology, and materials science.

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