A plate falls vertically to the floor and breaks up into three pieces, which slide along the floor. Immediately after the impact, a 200-g piece moves along the x-axis with a speed of 2.00 m/s and a 235-g piece moves along the y-axis with a speed of 1.50 m/s. The third piece has a mass of 100 g. In what direction does the third piece move?
A)216.9° from the x-axis
B)221.4° from the x-axis
C)36.9° from the x-axis
D)39.9° from the x-axis
E)41.4° from the x-axis

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The total momentum before and after the impact must be conserved. The momentum of the third piece can be calculated using the conservation of momentum in both x and y directions. Solving for the angle gives approximately 221.4° from the x-axis.

A Plate Falls Vertically to the Floor and Breaks Up