Car and truck run into each other

A car of mass m₁ = 2000 kg is driving at v_1i = 20 m/s due East as it enters an intersection. A minivan of mass m₂ = 6000 kg going v_2i = 30 m/s drives into the intersection along a road which runs θ = 30 degrees South of West. The meet in a most unhappy fashion.

Which of the following is the final velocity of the combined wreckage?

1. (-19.3 m/s East, -12.5 m/s North)
2. (-14.5 m/s East, -11.3 m/s North)
3. (-11.3 m/s East, -15.3 m/s North)

If the angle α is drawn as shown, how large is it?

1. about 38 degrees
2. about 128 degrees
3. about 142 degrees

Copyright © Michael Richmond. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons License.