Two balls with masses m1 = 3 kg and m2 = 5 kg have initial velocities v1 = 5 m/s = v2 in the directions as shown in figure. They collide at the origin. Find the velocity of the COM 3 seconds before collision?
(-12 ^i+15^j) m/s
The given time is of no consequence since VCOM is fixed for all times as there is no external force acting on the system of 2 particles.
Vcom)x=m1(v1)x+m2(v2)xm1+m2=(3)(−5 cos 37∘)+5(0)8=15m/s(Vcom)x=m1(V1)y+m2(V2)ym1+m2=3(−5 sin 37∘)+5(5)8=+2m/s→vcom=(−15^i+2^J)m/s