Moderate -0.3 This is a straightforward conservation of momentum problem with a single collision scenario. Students need to set up the momentum equation with appropriate signs, substitute given values, and solve a simple linear equation for m. While it requires careful attention to direction (opposite velocities), it's a standard M1 exercise with no conceptual surprises or multi-step reasoning beyond the basic momentum principle.
Each of two wagons has an unloaded mass of \(1200\) kg. One of the wagons carries a load of mass \(m\) kg and the other wagon is unloaded. The wagons are moving towards each other on the same rails, each with speed \(3\) m s\(^{-1}\), when they collide. Immediately after the collision the loaded wagon is at rest and the speed of the unloaded wagon is \(5\) m s\(^{-1}\). Find the value of \(m\). [5]
Each of two wagons has an unloaded mass of $1200$ kg. One of the wagons carries a load of mass $m$ kg and the other wagon is unloaded. The wagons are moving towards each other on the same rails, each with speed $3$ m s$^{-1}$, when they collide. Immediately after the collision the loaded wagon is at rest and the speed of the unloaded wagon is $5$ m s$^{-1}$. Find the value of $m$. [5]
\hfill \mbox{\textit{OCR M1 Q1 [5]}}