For an elastic collision of 2 masses
m1 and
m2 with initial velocities
u1 and
u2, final velocities of masses after collision are
v1=()u1+ and
v2=()u2+
These are obtained as standard results by applying conservation of energy and momentum equations. Now, in given case at first bullet is embedded in mass
M1. Let speed of bullet + Block system be
v1 after collision.
Then by conservation of momentum we have.
mv=(m+M1)v1 or
v1=() Note Here we are not using standard result as first collision is perfectly inelastic.
Now, bullet
+M1 strikes
M2 and it is given in problem that this collision is elastic.
Now, by formula we have,
v2=()v1+0 and
v3=(×0)+() ⇒v3=⋅ = Note You can remember these standard and useful results for finding final velocities in case of elastic collisions.