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Three particles \(P , Q\) and \(R\), are travelling in the same direction in the same straight line on a smooth horizontal surface. \(P\) has mass \(m \mathrm {~kg}\) and speed \(9 \mathrm {~m} \mathrm {~s} ^ { - 1 } , Q\) has mass 0.8 kg and speed \(2 \mathrm {~m} \mathrm {~s} ^ { - 1 }\) and \(R\) has mass 0.4 kg and speed \(2.75 \mathrm {~m} \mathrm {~s} ^ { - 1 }\) (see diagram).
- A collision occurs between \(P\) and \(Q\), after which \(P\) and \(Q\) move in opposite directions, each with speed \(3.5 \mathrm {~m} \mathrm {~s} ^ { - 1 }\). Calculate
(a) the value of \(m\),
(b) the change in the momentum of \(P\). - When \(Q\) collides with \(R\) the two particles coalesce. Find their subsequent common speed.