Question

    A 5 kg block at rest is hit by a 0.1 kg bullet moving at

    500 m/s. The bullet gets embedded into the block. What is their final velocity?
    A 5 m/s Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    B 10 m/s Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    C 9.8 m/s Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    D 20 m/s Correct Answer Incorrect Answer

    Solution

    We are given:

    • Bullet mass = 0.1 kg, initial speed = 500 m/s
    • Block mass = 5 kg, initially at rest
    • The bullet gets embedded into the block (i.e., perfectly inelastic collision)
    • We are to find the final velocity (Vf) of the bullet-block system after collision
    Apply conservation of linear momentum Initial momentum:
    • Bullet: p₁  = 0.1 × 500 = 50 kg·m/s
    • Block: p₂  = 5 × 0 = 0
    • Total initial momentum = 50 kg·m/s

    Practice Next

    Relevant for Exams: