Solving Pushing Two Blocks Kinetic Energy

[nitrik]

Homework Statement

There are two blocks touching each other, block A, and block B. Block A is being pushed by a force, which in turn moves block A and B at the same time. Block A has a mass of 4kg, block B has a mass of 1kg. (so the force is pushing the larger block, which is pushing the smaller block).

When the hand starts to push, the blocks are moving with a speed of 2.0 m/s. Suppose that the work done by the hand on block A during a given displacement is 10 J. Determine the final kinetic energy of each block

Homework Equations

Change in work (f * d) = change in kinetic energy ( 1/2m(vf)^2 - 1/2m(vi)^2)

The Attempt at a Solution

10J = Kf - 1/2(4kg)(2m/s)^2, Kf = 18J

10J = Kf - 1/2(1kg)(2m/s)^2, Kf = 12J

Now to me, this seems like a pretty straight forward problem. However, my fellow students are getting a different answer. Perhaps I am overlooking something? Any help is appreciated.
Thanks

 

[PhanthomJay]

Since the blocks move together at the same speeds, you've got to first look at the change in KE of the system (both blocks together) before you calculate the individual final KE of each.

 

[Moetasim]

!



Your solution looks correct to me. It seems like you have correctly applied the equation for work and the equation for kinetic energy to solve for the final kinetic energy of each block. It's possible that your classmates may have made a mistake in their calculations or used a different approach to solve the problem. I would recommend double checking your work and discussing with your classmates to see where the discrepancy may be coming from. It's also a good idea to check with your teacher or professor for confirmation. Keep up the good work!