Two identical bodies are sliding toward each other on a frictionless surface. One moves at 1 m/s and the other at 2 m/s. They collide and stick. The speed of the combined mass is

Explanation:

Two identical bodies are sliding toward each other on a frictionless surface.

Initial speed of body 1, m₁ = 1 m/s

Initial speed of body 2, m₂ = 2 m/s

They collide and stick.

We need to find the speed of the combined mass. Let V is the speed of the combined mass.

Using the conservation of momentum.

We have, m₁ = m₂ = m

So, the speed of the combined mass is .