How to Calculate the Increase in KE in a Two-Cart System with Spring Release

In summary, two carts with masses of 350g and 500g respectively, move together at .20 m/s to the right on a frictionless, level track. When the spring on the silver cart is released at the center of the track, the silver cart moves away at a final velocity of .40 m/s. The question is asking for the increase in final kinetic energy of the system when the spring is released. The formula for kinetic energy is KE = 1/2 * m * v^2, so we can calculate the initial KE by combining the masses and velocity of the two carts. However, the final KE will be different since the silver cart now has a different velocity. By plugging in the values,
  • #1
misyg
5
0
Two carts, a blue one with a mass of 350g and a silver one with a mass of 500g, move down a frictionless, level track together at .20 m/s to the right. When the two carts reach the center of the track, the spring on the silver cart is released, and the two carts move apart. The final velocity of the silver cart is .40 m/s to the right. How much does the final KE of the two cart system increase by when the spring is released?

I tried combining the masses and velocity but it just ended badly...please help.
 
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  • #2
hi misyg! :wink:

show us your full calculations, and then we'll see what went wrong, and we'll know how to help! :smile:
 

Related to How to Calculate the Increase in KE in a Two-Cart System with Spring Release

1. What is kinetic energy?

Kinetic energy is the energy an object possesses due to its motion. It is a scalar quantity and is dependent on the mass and velocity of the object.

2. How is kinetic energy calculated?

Kinetic energy is calculated using the formula KE = 1/2 mv^2, where m is the mass of the object and v is its velocity.

3. What are the units of kinetic energy?

The SI unit of kinetic energy is joules (J), but it can also be expressed in other units such as ergs or foot-pounds.

4. What is the relationship between kinetic energy and potential energy?

Kinetic energy and potential energy are both forms of mechanical energy. Kinetic energy is the energy of motion, while potential energy is the energy an object possesses due to its position or state. They are interconvertible and can be transferred from one form to another.

5. How does kinetic energy impact an object's ability to do work?

Kinetic energy is directly related to an object's ability to do work. The greater the kinetic energy, the more work an object can do. This is because work is defined as the change in an object's kinetic energy.

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