Kinetic Energy and Momentum: Practice Problem & Solution

Solution Explained:

To solve this problem, we apply the core principles of Kinetic Energy and Momentum. Understanding the underlying formula is key to arriving at the correct answer below:

By conservation of momentum, \(m_1v_1 + m_2v_2 = 0\) (since initial momentum is zero). Given \(m_1 = 18\text{ kg}\), \(v_1 = 6\text{ m/s}\), and \(m_2 = 12\text{ kg}\). So, \(18 \times 6 + 12v_2 = 0 \Rightarrow 108 + 12v_2 = 0 \Rightarrow v_2 = -9\text{ m/s}\). The kinetic energy of the other mass is \(KE_2 = \frac{1}{2}m_2v_2^2 = \frac{1}{2}(12)(-9)^2 = 6 \times 81 = 486\text{ J}\).