Question

part c
what is the speed of the block/bullet system after the collision?
express your answer in terms of ( v_i ), ( m_w ), and ( m_b ).
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( v_f = )
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Explanation:

Step1: State conservation of momentum

Total initial momentum = Total final momentum

Step2: Define initial momentum

Initial momentum: $m_b v_i + m_w \cdot 0 = m_b v_i$

Step3: Define final momentum

Final momentum: $(m_b + m_w) v_f$

Step4: Equate and solve for $v_f$

$m_b v_i = (m_b + m_w) v_f$
$v_f = \frac{m_b v_i}{m_b + m_w}$

Answer:

$\frac{m_b v_i}{m_b + m_w}$