Question

4. Consider a different 5.0 kg, are hurtli momentum collision: two lumps of plutonium, with masses m 2.0 kg and m2 c ing towards each other. These two pieces then fuse into a larger clump of plutonium with mass M that is moving at a velocity vse. Assume m is moving at v, 0.6c to the right. a. Draw you for Problem 1. Make sure to label their velocities, directions, and masses a sketch of the plutonium pieces before and after the collision in the same style as the diagram given to b. Write down the momentum and energy conservation equations. c. If the final lump of mass M remains at rest, then solve for v2 (the velocity of m2z). d. Calculate the value of M. Is it larger or smaller than m + m2? 4e (continued). Evaluate the expression (M mm2)c2. What type of energy did the initial plutonium masses go into? Where did the energy of the final plutonium come from? f. Now calculate the value of M if vN 0.2c to the right instead of remaining at rest. How does your answer compare to the value you obtained in part d)? Explain in terms of energy-momentum conservation. Now consider the same collision as in part e) as seen from the perspective of m g. Draw a sketch representing this collision, then solve for M once more. Has this change in reference frame affected the value of the final mass? Why or why not?

Answer 1

ク 2 neJt mass rnl r M e N, 2 2. 0 2

UL 36 3

2 + m2 2. , M 5 グ,